Darn site still won't let me log in…Well, here's the next chapter, and hopefully it won't be much longer until the site is running again!

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Chapter 11--The Magistrate

Legolas had expected something bad to happen while he was locked up and couldn't flee, but nothing did. He was left alone except for the guard looking in on him occasionally. After he had been there three times and Legolas was still awake he came over to the bars.

"You should try to sleep, Master Elf. Tomorrow will come all to soon," he said.

"I cannot sleep in these stone walls. I feel. …enclosed," Legolas said.

The guard sighed. "I would let you return to where you were if I could, but I cannot. Are you hungry? Thirsty?" he asked kindly.

Legolas eyed the guard warily then realized he was sincere. "A drink would be welcome," he admitted.

The guard smiled. "I will be right back," he said and hurried off. He was back with a tall glass in minutes. He handed the glass to Legolas who took a small sip.

Spring water, cold and sweet, Legolas drained the glass. He hadn't realized how thirsty he actually was until then. "Thank you," he said, handing the glass back.

"Would you like another glass? I would be glad to get it for you," the guard said.

"No, thank you," Legolas said.

"Then I will go back to my duties. Please try to sleep, Master Elf. I will check on you again later. Let me know if you need anything else," the guard said and left.

Somehow the guard's kindness was soothing and Legolas managed to slip into reverie at last. It was a relief to escape his situation for a time. He woke when he heard keys clattering and a loud click, as the cell door was unlocked. It was a different guard who didn't look as friendly.

"On your feet, Elf. There is some things that must be done before you are fit to face the magistrate," he ordered. "Come out of there."

At that moment the cell seemed a lot safer, but Legolas knew if he didn't come out voluntarily that he would be dragged out. He rose and obeyed.

The guard gripped his arm and led him from the prison to a small building not far from it. Once they were inside Legolas recognized it as the barracks.

The guard led him to a windowless room and shoved him inside. "Clean yourself up and put on the clothes that have been left for you. You have one hour, no more," he said.

The door closed and Legolas heard a key turn in the lock. He was locked in. He looked at the tub, shrugged and undressed. A hot bath would be welcome. He slid into the water and found it was deliciously warm. Taking the soap he began to scrub the taint of the prison from his skin. After he finished and dried off he donned the clothes waiting for him, a simple shirt and pair of leggings then waited for the guard to return.

The guard arrived right on time and found Legolas was ready. He was carrying a set of shackles. "Hold out your wrists, Elf and do not give me any trouble," he ordered.

Legolas obeyed, but winced when the shackles were locked around his wrists. He was then led from the barracks and into another building. He was relieved to see Cedrin and Keesha, but not Lord Dalton who was there as well. He was not allowed to go near anyone. He was led through the huge double doors and the others followed.

A stern looking man with silver hair wearing black robes sat behind a massive wood desk. He looked up and stared at Legolas with chilly gray eyes.

"My Lord Magistrate, all of the involved parties have arrived," the guard said and bowed.

Legolas felt his heart sink as all hope tried to desert him, but he faced the cold faced man bravely….

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Here it goes! R/R please!