THE SPACE BETWEEN
Author's note: I am so glad to see that is up and running almost to sheer perfection! Hurray!
Many thanks go to Tree Hugger! I'm very glad you liked the last chapter and that it wasn't too mushy for your taste!
I don't know why I picked Larry the Lark, it was a joke at first and I was going to take it out, but I decided not to. Oh well, t'was more than silly I suppose…
So sorry for the delay, but now that nice enough to let me upload I might just work a bit faster!
So enough babbling here it is! Waving tiny little victory flag for no reason at all Oh well I hope its not too mushy or just plain badly written litterature (you will tell me, won't you?) Ok on with the story:)
Chapter Five
Evil wears a Mask of Virtue
"Is there something I can help you with Makowyl?" Asked Legolas through clenched teeth doing the best he could to contain his anger.
Makowyl smiled evilly. "Yes, of course, of course." He said wavering in hand in the air carelessly. "Would you please, you revolt me! I despise the both of you and I wish you both the worse in life."
Willow's face winced as she answered his evil advances. "What? I do not understand."
Makowyl twisted his face in mock sympathy. "Do not understand? Awe; allow me to spell it out for you. You see I have an intense disgust for fell creatures such as yourself! My quest is to destroy them in any way possible. Do not worry, it is something that gives me great pleasure."
Legolas stepped in front of Willow defensively. "Makowyl! You should leave this place; it would be unfortunate to have the Golden Wood unclean because of such foul words. Please leave." He said somewhat gently, his hand extended towards the path leading to the edge of the Wood.
"What do you mean, Little Princeling of Darkness? Go back to your dark evil Woods filled with fell creatures. That is where you truly belong among your kind, spiders wargs and Orcs! Of course don't forget to take your own Orc with you!"
"This is an outrage! You have no right speaking in such a manner towards Laiella." Legolas used Willow's real name; he only referred to her as Laiella when he was cross. Anger was crawling up his veins; his mask of serenity was slipping as his true angry self was about to be revealed. "Speak for yourself! You are no better! I will not take this! What is your problem with us?"
Makowyl laughed at the Prince's outrage. "My problem? Why it is you! O mighty Prince of Spiders! And you! You call yourself an Elf, but you are far too evil to grant yourself such a privileged name! To think this," He said pointing at Willow. "This Orc Witch is what your parents died for! What a waste, they should have killed you instead! Yet still your parents were just as you are now: fell, evil and unwanted! It was more than a wonderful thing to see them suffer and die. 'Tis but a shame you did not join them!"
Willow gasped as tears welled in her eyes. "You have no business being here!" She exclaimed from behind Legolas.
"And why is that? I have as much business being here as the Princess of Orcs herself!" Makowyl laughed. "Do act so innocently! You are far from innocent! Go back to Mordor where you belong, in the Dark Tower with the Dark Lord by your side! He is the only being of whom you are worthy. That is he and this Excuse-of-an-Elf-Prince! His father, the King should not have wasted the occasion to dispose of you when this presumptuous impudent arrogant Little Princeling returned! Obviously the King has taught you nothing since you are here again! Leave this place! You are not wanted! Both of you! Return to the darkness hence where you came from!" Makowyl was now shouting. It was certain he would attract someone's attention.
Willow could no longer help herself as tears fell down her cheeks. Legolas protectively wrapped his arms around her. He was about to open his mouth to lash out a long list of profanities, insults and curses, thus unveiling another occasion for Makowyl to exploit him.
"Enough!" A strong voice commanded from the hallways. It was very fortunate the voice intervened before Legolas exposed himself to further torment from the hateful Elf.
"Is there a problem here?" Said Lord Celeborn as he walked swiftly towards the group. "Makowyl? Would you care to explain?"
As quick as it was to light out a candle, Makowyl's expression changed from disdainful and swaggering to almost shamefaced. "No, My Lord. I was just leaving." He said bowing his head towards the Lord of Lórien.
Celeborn glared at the Elf scornfully. "I hope so, Makowyl. I would speak to you later this evening, before you leave these woods."
"Of course My Lord." He spoke in a most deceitful and hypocritical fashion; Legolas felled the urge to throw up. Right before taking his leave he gave Legolas once final glance and revealed a malignant smile. Legolas understood what it meant. I got you! Makowyl knew very well, as did Legolas, he got down deep under his skin.
"Guards!" Celeborn's impassive face revealed little of his feelings on the matter. Three guards entered the Hallway where awaited the foursome. "Please escort Lord Makowyl out my Realm."
The guard to whom he was speaking to bowed to Celeborn before he brought out his orders. Once Makowyl gone, the Lord of Doriath faced the shaken couple with saddened eyes. "What has transpired here?" He gently asked Legolas who held Willow as she wept.
"Makowyl... He... spoke cruel words towards Willow. It was uncalled for."
"I see." Were the only words the Lord said aloud. Although it was certain the Prince and Willow knew nothing of this, but Celeborn had heard most of their hateful exchange of words.
Legolas spoke again, his voice shaky. "It was... unsettling. I cannot understand what is the matter with him! It is the same situation as when I first came here. I remember what he told me! It was so horrible, his voice was full of spite. I thought he would kill me with his words."
"I know Young One, Makowyl is a problem. There is something with him, something that I cannot understand as of yet. All I know is, he is not to be trusted."
"Then why is he here!" Lamented Willow. "If he is so evil, than why was he granted access into these woods? Why was he not cast out?" Legolas hugged Willow tighter as her face fell into his shoulder.
Celeborn shook his head sadly. "He was, Little One, he was. I do not know why he has returned. I fear he is up to no good. You must avoid him at all costs, I fear the next time you confront him, it will be more than just words he intends on sharing."
"I understand." As he listened to the Lord, Legolas stroked Willow back soothingly. After a few moments given to compose themselves, Celeborn invited the two to join him in the dining Hall.
"I know it shall not be easy, but try to not let this incident spoil your evening." Legolas nodded and released Willow. Together the three made their way into the dining Hall, all the while attempting to clear their minds of what had recently occurred.
The Vast and spacious Dining Hall was elegantly decorated with its lightly coloured stained glass ceiling, white silvery walls and brushed pewter tables covered with lace cloths and chairs. Lord Celeborn joined his wife who was waiting for him. Hands clasped, the Lord and Lady entered the Hall filled with Elves. They were welcomed with the gasps of amazement they received every time they entered a hall together. Legolas and Willow followed silently behind. Celeborn sat at the head of the stretched table, while Galadriel made her way to the other end. Willow and Legolas sat on either side of the Lord of Lórien, who stood up, glass in hand waiting for the clamour to quiet down.
"On this evening there is much that has come to pass, some pleasant and some foul. All of Lórien shares the grief for the loss of Mithrandir and all are aware of what evil lurks in these current times. Yet tonight, we also have some cause for merriment since we have here with us a friend whom we believe lost. Let us be merry and welcome Prince Legolas Greenleaf, who has returned to us after a prolonged absence!" Celeborn spoke solemnly. There was a renewed roar of approuvements in the Hall as the Lord turned to Legolas.
"Prince of Mirkwood, we welcome you into our Realm once again! May your presence shine in these Woods for many times to come."
Legolas was in awe. He knew he was always welcomed in Lórien and he possessed the Lord and Lady's favour, but he had not imagined that the entire Lords of Lothlórien esteemed his presence. He glanced at Willow who was grinning. Yes, it felt wondrous to be here again.
Soon there was a hush in the Hall and the festivities had commenced. The Elves were mingling, silverware was clinging and wine was being poured. Willow filled a pewter goblet with dark red wine. She handed to Legolas who seemed lightly puzzled.
"What is this?" He inquired.
"Elvish wine, what else? It is a new variety. Taste." She commanded softly, forgetting the evening's past dreadful incident.
Legolas brought the glass to his lips and drank in the dark velvety substance. As the wine slid gracefully down his throat Legolas commented on the effect it brought forth.
"Very nice, very soft. I feel a sense of warmth and velvet as it slides down my throat. And the taste! I find a slight hint of cherry, yet I can tell it has been aged well. Black Current wine?"
"Yes. Aged perfectly in cherry oak casks."
Legolas smiled contently as he took another sip. "Wonderful!"
"I thought you would enjoy it."
Legolas nodded in approval as he lifted the glass to bring it to his lips once more.
The evening was beginning to drag on for Willow. Legolas was deep in conversation with Lord Celeborn and another Elf Lord while Haldir had left long ago to begin his watch. She sighed as she sat at the table, palm under her chin looking rather morose and plainly bored. The thought of Makowyl and his brutal words drifted back into her mind. Your parents were just as you are now: fell, evil and unwanted! It was more than a wonderful thing to see them suffer and die. 'Tis but a shame you did not join them!
Willow felt a rush of tears coming on. While listening to the Elf Lord, Legolas glanced at Willow, she seemed sulky. He caught her gaze and mouthed. "Are you well?" The dark glare he received as an answer told him something was wrong. Politely taking his leave, he excused himself from the two Elf Lords and invited Willow to leave the Dining Hall. She accepted at once.
As soon as they entered Legolas' room the Prince asked. "What it is, Willow? Is there something wrong?"
Willow feigned not understanding. "What? No, nothing is wrong. Is there something wrong with you?"
The Prince shook his head. "No, but I am certain there is something troubling you. Do not hide from me Willow. Please? Talk to me!"
"I was thinking. All this, all these years we have spent in suffering, away from each other, if it weren't for your Father, we would never have known such unmerciful times."
Legolas' mouth gaped. "What are you saying?"
"Makowyl was right! This is what your Father wanted, isn't it? He is a cruel, fell, evil being who cares nothing for others! He only enjoys tormenting anything that is unfortunate to be near him! Oh how I despise him! How I wish he would suffer and die!"
"Willow! How dare you speak of my Father that way! Who gave you the right to curse him so!" Legolas spat angrily. He could not believe she was saying those words. He would have understood if Makowyl were speaking them but not Willow!
Willow snorted. "Why are you defending him! He has caused you naught but pain and anguish! He deserves not your compassion! He deserves your scorn, your hatred and your wrath!" I hate him and I wish him dead! If I were in Mirkwood I would kill him myself!"
All the anger Legolas had managed to contain in the confrontation with Makowyl was no longer contained. "I am not hearing these words! Do you know what could happen if you have spoken these words in Mirkwood? You would be imprisoned and most likely executed or exiled for treason!"
Willow mocked the Prince. "Of course leave it to Thranduil to kill or shun his own kind!"
For a brief moment, Legolas caught a glimpse of Willow's eyes. He was frightened to see all the rage they held. Surprisingly enough, Legolas' fury was still contained. He had believed it released but he was able to take control of himself. "Willow! I don't know what has come over you! You are not yourself. I do not see it wise to continue this." He had spoken sternly, not wanting to further aggravate the situation.
Realising just what she was saying, Willow stopped suddenly and sat down on Legolas' bed. "No, I don't know what came over me." She spoke with such a tiny little, voice. It became quiet and demure almost as suddenly as it was loud and angry just a few moments ago. "I can't believe what I just said. How can I say that?"
Sadness filled Legolas face as he noticed the startling change in his beloved. He stiffened fearing she would again burst out before him again. With a glance in Willow's face, he noticed her eyes were red and regret was written all over her face. His gaze softened as he sat down next to her.
She spoke weakly. "I must apologize for what I said. Oh Legolas! I am so sorry! How could you ever forgive me? I am so sorry, I do not know what has come over me!"
The Prince gathered his little Willow into his arms and hushed into her hear. "It is alright, you were not yourself." He gently rocked her back and forth. After a moment, he guided her outside on his balcony where they sat huddled together as the stars above them shined brightly, celebrating their reunion.
"I understand why you have spoken these words. At one time I thought them myself." Stated Legolas after a moment of reflection. Willow looked at him, fresh tears in her eyes.
"But you know, my Father is not all that evil."
Willow began to protest. "But what of all he has done to you? All of your suffering at his hands?"
Legolas raised his palm. "Wait, you do not understand. Please allow me to clarify." Willow nodded.
"My Father, well, I know he loves me as I love him. We have never spoken these words to one another, but I can feel that he loves me."
"Are you saying your father never told you he loved you? How can a father never tell his son he loves him? Does he not hold any affection for you?"
"Yes, but you must understand, he had not had an easy life. Many millennias before I was born he was a captive in the Dark Tower, he seldom speaks of these times, but I do recall him speaking of it with my mother. It is not an event he dwells on. A few years before I was born, his father died at the battle against the Dark Lord. Then my mother died, a moment that crushed him. It was he who had received the most grief at this passing, more than the three of us I assure you. And to make matters worse, Orcs killed Endaren, my brother. So you see, Willow, it is not easy for my father to show his feelings. With all these painful moments he endured during his lifetime, it is no question why he is what he is. I do not blame him for it, anymore. On some occasions, I feel sorry for him."
Legolas spoke gently as Willow listened to him.
"You know there are some times where I can recall the times I spent with my father, when I was very young. He was a kind and gentle father, especially in our earliest years, before mother died. We always thought she brought out the best out of him. Since she died, Naneth was no longer there to bring the best of him, so we were left with the Thranduil we all know today. You see, Melamin, with all the loved ones my Father lost over the course of his lifetime, he began to withdraw his love from us and place it into things he cannot lose. That is why his love for jewels and riches is so strong. He has put his love in material things. He believes at least, they shall not be taken away from his so easily."
Willow sniffled. "I am regretful, Legolas. I wish you could forgive me."
The Prince smiled. "Of course I do. I could not imagine being in disagreement with you. As I have said, I felt just as you do! Despite the tragic life of my Father, I still bear great anger towards him. There are certain things I hold responsible for. These past thousand years are, he is to blame. For that you are right and for that I shall never find the will to forgive him. There are some things that are a betrayal beyond words and forgiveness."
The last words were spoken with a tone of finality in them. Regretfully, the Prince no longer held hope as to find forgiveness in his heart. A silence was upon them. Neither spoke for quite a few moments. After a while a fair sound was in the air. It was all around them. Singing. Both knew what this singing was and why.
"A lament for Mithrandir." Said the Prince sullenly.
"Yes." Replied Willow. "Do you wish to join them?"
Legolas shook his head, his eyes glazy as the memories of Moria were rekindled in his heart. "No, it is not yet time for song for me. I have not even wept for him."
Willow brushed a stray strand of hair. "Maybe you should, it would do you much good."
"I know, yet now is not the time. Please, let us not speak of this for my heart aches."
Again silence was upon them. This time, it was a respectful silence in honour of the Grey Pilgrim. They did not speak until the Elves had finished their laments for the evening. Both knew very well it was only the beginning and more laments were to come for the evenings to come. Legolas had a feeling he would need to explain to the hobbits and the dwarf the meaning of these. He cringed at the very thought of having to face his feelings prematurely. As the singing died down and Lórien was again silent, Willow turned to Legolas in an attempt to rouse the Prince from his silent sorrow.
"Why did Makowyl speak of spiders?" The words fell off her lips so innocently, Legolas would have thought he was speaking to a child. Again he brought out his storyteller voice.
"Well, over the past Millennias, Mirkwood has fallen deeper into shadow and darkness. At first, not long after the defeat of the Dark Lord, Orcs began to raid our Woods again. Then about a century after, what happened between us, most of the forest was invaded by giant horrible spiders."
Willow's eyes widened in horror at the very thought of spiders lurking in every dark corner of these once beautiful woods.
Noticing Willow's unease, Legolas smiled. " Oh yes! And they are horrible too! Evil dark spiders with sharp fangs and claws and hairy legs and they crawl around the kingdom and don't you get caught in their web or else-"
Willow clamped her hands to her ears and shut her eyes. "Enough, enough!" She cried.
Legolas laughed. "I only tease, Melamin." He said as he brought her hands away from her ears. "I know, it is horrible! Many Elves died or were injured because of these horrible beasts. After the spiders, I know, yes there is more, wargs and wolves began to haunt our Woods. And the dark tower of Dol Guldur, has been stirring ever since."
Willow hugged Legolas as if she attempted to protect him from surrounding creatures waiting to harm him. "But this is much ill news! I feared for your life when you told me of Orcs attacking your Woods. And now all of a sudden, spiders and wargs and wolves. Oh my!"
Legolas laughed lightly. "Well not all of a sudden. All these fell creatures always lived in Mirkwood, but they were always near Dol Guldur and the Eastern side of the forest, it is only in the past millennia they have begun to bother the Wood Elves."
"Still horrible." Whined Willow.
"Look how the stars shine brightly!" He said in the hopes to change the topic of conversation. He and Willow wanted to put what was said behind them for good.
She smiled through her tears. "Yes. Do you remember the first time we watched the stars together?"
"Yes, we remained awake all through the night, talking. How I reminisce of those days. I wish nothing had changed."
"As do I, Melamin, as do I." Willow rested her head on Legolas' shoulder as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder. They spent the night watching the stars, talking until the sun came up. Just as the elder days, when they did not carry the cares they now possessed.
For the time the Fellowship stayed in Lothlórien, Legolas was barely seen without his beloved Willow. However, as strange as it may seem to all who know of Middle Earth and its history, Gimli, son of Glóin a dwarf lord of the Erebor, the Lonely Mountain, was often seen with the Elven lovers. They no longer look upon each other with disdainful eyes, but slowly they gained the possibility to stand one another, a growing friendship was sprouting between the two. One that would knock down barriers and set a new ground for the time to come. Our dears friends had stepped on a new path, and they were more than willing to walk it.