The Twisted Web of Fate

by Sinister Sindar Sisters

Thranduil and his young son travel to a trade meeting very soon after the death of their wife and mother. Unknown to them, darkness follows them. Will they survive and make it back to their beloved home alive?

12. Chapter 12

The Twisted Web of Fate. 10B?

(Gwî Norn Ned Amarth)

By the Sinister Sindar Sisters (M. Cross and B. Kennedy)

We broke this chapter into three parts because it wound up being about 117 pages long. This site is getting impossible to work with. We've tried for several days to get this posted. It keeps eating our edits, especially punctuations, if not the entire upload. Grrrrrrr - Barbara

Disclaimer: Try as we might, we still don't own any part of the wondrous world created by the genius of J.R.R. Tolkien, so we just visit it and borrow a few characters for these stories. We write them for our own entertainment and we surely don't make any money off them.

Rating: PG13 Action/adventure/angst (hurt/care)

Feedback: Yes please………….

Spoilers: Well, surely for LOTR

Summary: Thranduil and his young son must travel to a trade meeting very soon after the death of their Wife and Mother. Unknown to them, dire danger and darkness follows them. Will they both survive to return to their beloved home alive?

WARNINGS – Lots of angst and hurt/care throughout this story.

Shell is a stickler for medical accuracy. There are more graphic injury descriptions here, may be disturbing to some.

Tissue warning - You might want a couple close to hand. You never know.

We are aware we seem to be repeating the same story to different characters, but they need to be told what is happening too. We try to mix it with lots of new stuff.

The story is Alternate Universe to begin with, though heavily structured on Middle Earth history, research and medical fact. Enjoy the show. It's all for fun anyway.

Sindarin vocabulary…………………………………….

(References: Dragon Flame and Encyclopedia of Arda)

Adar, ada - father, dad

Amarth – fate, doom

Anor – Sun

Aran, Aran-nin - King, my King

Ardhon, Arda - the world

Caun - Prince

DaerAda, DaerNana – (roughly) Grandfather, Grandmother

Elenath sila am le! - Stars shine upon you!

Elleth, ellith – elf-maiden, elf-maidens

Ellon, ellyn – elf, elves (male)

Elrondionnath – sons of Elrond

Fea - soul, spirit

Gwador – brother

Gwanur – 1. pair of twins 2. brother or kinsman, kinswoman

Gwathel - sister

Gweth - manhood

Gwî – web

Hannon le – Thank you

Hennad - thanks

Hir, Hir-nin - Lord, my Lord

Hithlain – 'mist-thread' a substance used by the elves of Lothlórien to make strong ropes

Iaur - old

Imladris – Rivendell

Ion-nin – my son

Irmo – Vala of dreams and visions (also known as Lórien)

Lhaew hûn nestadren salab - digitalis, foxglove (My made-up Sindarin name, literally - ill heart healing herb)

Meleth – (My) love

Melethron – (my) lover (masc.)

Mellon-iaur – old friend

Mellon-nin, mellyn-nin - my friend, my friends

Namarie – Farewell
Námo – true name of the Valar Mandos

Ned - of

Norn – twisted

Olórin – The Maia (Istari) Mithrandir, Gandalf, his 'true' name

Penneth – Young one

Saes - Please

Sîdh - peace

Suilad – Hail or Greetings

Yrch - orcs

/ text / indicates though, dream or visions

-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-

- Chapter ten B –

Nestoron could not prevent the scream of terror that was torn from his throat as he felt himself slip and fall. He heard Doroniel's matching scream briefly before the sound was snatched away by the rush of icy wind. He could not grab the Eagle's wing and hinder its flight or risk damage to the delicate feathers, not with Elrond tied helpless on its back.

He seemed to fall forever as time stretched and narrowed so that an eternity seemed to pass and not mere seconds. He closed his eyes in fear as countless thoughts crashed through his mind at once. This was not the way it was meant to be. He was supposed to grow old with his bonded, Faelien, and then from Mithlond cross to Valinor, the Undying Lands, with her.

At the thought of Faelien, he felt his eyes fill with tears even as his heart seemed to seize in his chest with the fear of his tumbling descent through the icy air. Dear, sweet Faelien, she would not cope well with his death. He had no doubt that she would leave Middle Earth in the hope that he would be re-born in Valinor as Glorfindel had been.

It hit him then, so forcefully that he lost his breath. He would never see his son born! Ai, Ilúvatar, this was such an injustice!

Faelien was only a month into her pregnancy and they had both been overjoyed. They had not even told Elrond yet, although he had a feeling that Elrond knew. Faelien was a healer in training under his tutelage.

They were waiting for the news to reach their respective parents before letting their friends know. Now he would not be there to join in the celebrations.

/Nesty/ Faelien. She must have felt his terror through their link. He struggled to block his fear. /Is something wrong, Meleth/

He concentrated only on his love for her and their new precious child. /I love you, Faelien, never forget that. I love you with all of my heart. Look after our son. Elrond will help you. I am so sorry I cannot be with you./

/What is wrong? Why will you... No! No, Nestoron you promised to stay with me/ Nestoron could feel her sudden fear as she realised he was saying goodbye.

/I know, meleth. I am so sorry, more sorry than I can say./ His thoughts were brought to an abrupt end as his descent was brought to a sudden halt. His eyes opened in shock. Above him, the Great Eagle, Faunryn, peered down at him with a worried gleam in his eye.

"Why did you not grab my wing?" He sounded greatly puzzled.

Nestoron found that he could not speak. His mind had not yet registered that he was no longer falling. Faunryn had snagged his cloak in his talons, tearing great gaping holes in the fabric.

"I am bringing you lower to the ground so that the Elves can help you."

Faunryn sounded so worried, so scared for him.

Nestoron did not have the chance to answer as the torn material of his cloak, which the Great Eagle clutched in his claw, gave way and the fall began once more. He had no chance to call out or speak to Faelien through their link as he crashed to the ground.

His breath was forced from his lungs and pain greater than he had ever felt before filled his whole awareness. Red clouded his vision and then melted into darkness...

Had Nestoron been conscious, he would have known that help was with him immediately. He had fallen just inside Imladris and, luckily for him, he fell in an area that was free of tall trees and rocks. It only contained grass and shrubs.

One of the first to reach him, crying with sudden fear for her beloved, was Faelien. "Nestoron!" Her cry was clearly filled with terror. She did not stop to think about her budding pregnancy. All that filled her mind as she had seen him fall was reaching Nestoron.

She slid to a stop on her knees beside him. Shaking hands reached out to touch him but hovered just above him, needing to know if he was alive yet terrified to touch him in case he was not. His natural glow could not be seen. Her hands shook even more, in time with her sobbing.

The others in her healer training group had followed her. Ladeth hurried to Faelien's side. She was a close friend of both Faelien and Nestoron.

"Let the others see to him, Faelien. Come, sit over here. They will help him. Look, you are shaking." Ladeth tried to pull Faelien to one side with her, but the sobbing elleth could not move, could not talk and certainly could not take her eyes off of her beloved.

Talagan, another trainee healer in Faelien's group, knelt on the ground on the other side of Nestoron. He tried to smile in reassurance but failed miserably.

He reached out and gently felt for Nestoron's pulse at his throat. His eyes closed in relief. Unfortunately, Faelien took it the other way, assuming the worst of her fears were true.

"No! No, Nesty not now! Please, not now, do not leave me!" Ladeth hugged her sobbing friend to her, deep sorrow showed in her eyes.

"No, no, Faelien. He is alive!" Talagan's eyes had flown open at Faelien's cry.

"Did you hear Talagan, Faelien? Nestoron is alive. He lives!" Ladeth spoke the words firmly into her ear to make sure that Faelien understood.

"A... alive?" Faelien's voice was low and weak.

"Yes, mellon-nin, he is alive."

"Alive?" Her voice was even fainter than before and Ladeth looked at her, worried. Her face had drained of all color.

"Come, more healers are here to help. We must move to give them room to take care of him." Ladeth tried to help her stand, but Faelien's knees had gone weak and she could not take her weight. With a startled cry, Ladeth suddenly had Faelien's full limp weight held awkwardly in her arms. Faelien had fainted. She was lucky that, at that moment, two more healers joined them. One went to Nestoron and, at her cry, the other joined Ladeth. He helped her to lay Faelien on the ground a short distance away and looked her over.

For once Ladeth did not know which of her friends she should go to. She decided that staying with Faelien was the best idea.

"Could Faelien be pregnant?" The Master Healer, Thelion, asked. He was tall and thin with long brown hair and brown eyes.

"Pregnant?" Ladeth found herself gaping at him. It was not a question she had expected.

"Yes, pregnant, Ladeth. I dare not give her any potions until I know. It could harm the babe if she is." Thelion continued his examination.

"I do not know. They have not mentioned anything. Faelien has been well and happy for the last month, but before that…?" Ladeth shrugged, shocked yet happy for her friend if it was so. Then she looked across and saw Nestoron on the ground and felt deep sorrow once more.

The other healer quickly made his way to Nestoron, kneeling beside him. He looked to the others gathered around the wounded healer.

"What have you found?" This healer, Linnathon, was Talagan's tutor and his presence helped him to calm somewhat.

"Nestoron fell from about 15 feet and landed hard on his back. I have not moved him. His left leg is badly broken. I did not think it wise to move it either." The Master Healer nodded, pleased. The leg was indeed at an awful angle, 'badly broken' did not cover his sentiments. He just hoped the bone had not broken through the skin.

"Good, you are doing well, Talagan. What else have you seen?" Linnathon asked. He had already pulled his healer's bag from his shoulder, ready to open it.

"His right arm is fractured. I have not had a chance to look at his neck, not alone."

"Good, go on." Linnathon had to keep calm. If he did not he would be no good to either his friend on the ground or his student. But, this was his best friend. The thought kept repeating in his mind

"I think he has a head injury. There is some blood around his head. His pupils are matching in size and do respond to the same size." Talagan tried to remember all his training, but this felt like a nightmare. Healers did not normally get this badly injured. Even warriors rarely were hurt this severely…and lived

"Have you checked his abdomen or chest?"

"No, not yet Linnathon."

"Do so, Talagan." More Elves had arrived, alerted by the arrival of the Eagles. He turned to the first to arrive. "We need a litter to strap Nestoron to before we can move him. See to that for me?" The lead Elf nodded and turned to sprint back the way that he had come. At least he could bring word that Nestoron still lived…for now.

"His abdomen is hard." Talagan looked up to see his mentor checking Nestoron's head, careful not to move it. "He may have internal bleeding."

"With a fall from that height, it would be inevitable." Linnathon sighed. He was positive the bones moved beneath his hands. As the list of injuries grew, so did his fear for Nestoron's chances of living long enough to recover from them.

Talagon had moved up to the chest area. If anyone had been watching his face and not standing around muttering, watching Nestoron and Faelien, they would have seen his face go from being pale and nervous to shaky and green.

"I feel some bones moving on the right side." He gently felt the other side. "There are some on the other side as well."

"As I feared. Can you help me this end? I need to check his neck, but I want you to keep it from moving." Linnathon waited until Talagon was in place and then gently began to examine his friend's neck, praying to the Valar all the while that his neck would not be damaged.

Relief showed on his face, though he tried very hard to maintain a passive, calm exterior. "Thank the Valar! Elbereth! I was certain it would be damaged. I am glad to be wrong. We need to check his back as well, but we will do that later, when we get to the healing ward. Talagan, I want you to keep an eye on his pupil reaction while we work." With that he made his way down to check Nestoron's legs.

Slowly and surely, Linnathon gently re-positioned the broken leg. It had caught beneath Nestoron as he landed and had twisted around completely the wrong way. His worst fear was confirmed when he saw a bulge in the leggings and the dark colour that surrounded it. He quickly took up a very sharp knife and used it to cut the material away so that they could see the resulting wound. The white gleam of bone confirmed that it had broken through the skin. "He has a compound fracture to the left leg. We will need to see to that when we get him to the healing wing."

As he spoke the Elf who had run to get a litter returned with three other Ellyn that could carry the strong wooden litter and its burden back to the House of Healing.

"Good, you are back." They had even thought to bring a second litter for Faelien. "Set it down next to him. We will have to lift him very carefully. I cannot be sure that his back has not been damaged." He watched while they did as he directed. Taking his time, he carefully removed Nestoron's left boot, slicing the supple leather all the way from top to toe with his knife to avoid tugging on the leg more than necessary. He then checked to make sure that blood was still reaching Nestoron's foot. He sighed with relief when he found a faint pedal pulse. It was not as strong as he would have liked, but he was thankful for any at all.

"I told Erestor and Mithrandir what has happened and where you are. Mithrandir will come to help once they have the injured settled. Mithrandir said that he would not be long." He glanced at the two unconscious elves lying on the grass. "How can I be of assistance?"

"Hannon le. We will need help to hold Nestoron still when we lift him." Linnathon soon had the others in position. They had just begun to move him, very carefully and without jerking the spine, another sliding the litter beneath him, when Nestoron gave a low, long moan. "Lower him back!"

They lowered him so gently one would think that they were holding a precious newborn babe.

"Nestoron?" Linnathon spoke urgently as he knelt near his head.

His reply was another low moan. He was obviously experiencing great pain with returning consciousness. Linnathon looked over at some of the Ellyn that were trying to help Ladeth with Faelien. "Did any of you bring hot water with you?"

He did not expect an affirmative answer and had almost decided to work from a negative answer.

"Yes, I brought a flask, Master Linnathon." It was Nestoron's pupil, Amdrenin. He silently gave thanks to his fallen friend. It was something that Nestoron taught all his students, to be prepared. "I thought it might be of some use."

"It is, Amdrenin, hannon le. You have saved Nestoron from being moved while conscious and in agony. It will be bad enough for him, even with medication." Linnathon accepted the flask with a small smile and was soon mixing the herbs, but, how to get it into Nestoron? "Can one of you go back to the healing wing and bring a reed? With great speed? I need it urgently."

Amdrenin took off with stunning speed that was a great relief to Linnathon. He knew the young student was devoted to Nestoron and would do whatever was asked, without question. He turned back to his patient.

"Nesty? Can you hear me?" Pained eyes cracked open with another moan.

"F...Fae?" Nestoron's voice was incredibly low and weak. It worried Linnathon that his childhood friend did not seem to recognise him.

"No Nesty. It is Linnathon." He exchanged a worried look with Talagan.

"B...Baby, l...look a…aft…after…her." The words came slowly between shallow breaths, followed by a moan of pain.

"Baby? I am not..." It was then he realised just what Nestoron meant. His face lit with joy mixed with concern. "Fae is pregnant? Oh, my dear friend, that is wonderful. Hold on, Mellon-nin, I need to tell the others so that they know not to give her certain things. Talagan, stay with Nestoron?" At his nod, Linnathon stood and hurried to the other small group around Faelien.

"Neithan, Thelion, you must know that Fae is pregnant. Nestoron just told me."

"Hannon le, Linnathon. That helps. I cannot give her these." Thelion put many of the herbs back in his pack.

"How is Fae?" He was worried about her. The last thing Linnathon needed this day was to lose both of his friends.

"She is in shock. I need to give her some Miruvor and then we will get her back to the healing halls. I can then examine her more thoroughly. How is Nestoron?" Neithan looked to Linnathon from where he knelt.

Linnathon's face was grim. "Not good. He has multiple broken bones. It would happen right in front of Fae. I hope she does not lose the babe through shock. I must get back to him."

Linnathon hurried back to Nestoron, coinciding with Amdrenin's return with the hollow-reed straw.

"Hannon le, Amdrenin. Any news from Mithrandir?" He took the thin pliable reed straw and began to bend it so that Nestoron could take the tea for his pain.

"He will be here any minute."

They all watched as Linnathon bent over Nestoron with the goblet. Even from where they stood, they could see that Nestoron breathed with great difficulty. A lot was attributable to the pain of his injuries, but it was also because of the fractured ribs. "Nestoron can you drink this? If we lay you on one side and do not move, do you think you can possibly drink?"

"Y...yes."

The waiting Ellyn around him had not moved, so it was easy for Linnathon to arrange them once more. "This is going to hurt, Nesty, but it cannot be helped. He tried to steel himself against the pain Nestoron felt, so it would not get to him, but he would be a fool and a liar if he said it did not. The pained groans of his friend hurt him deeply. Linnathon had to blink away his tears. No matter how hard he tried to stop them from falling, he failed.

Doroniel could not prevent the scream that escaped her when she saw Nestoron fall from Faunryn. She held tightly onto Legolas and made sure that he was safe while sharing a horrified glance with Mithrandir. He shouted something to the Great Eagle over her, but she could not make head or tail of it. She was sure she heard Gwaihir answer as well but by this point she was not thinking too clearly. She had tears streaming down her face but was not aware of them.

Suddenly, so suddenly that her chin almost hit Legolas as she followed him with her eyes, Faunryn veered away from Thoronneth and folded his wings to dive down to intercept Nestoron's tumbling, plummeting form. She felt a sudden jolt of fear for Elrond, still held fast to Faunryn's back. Yet she also hoped, prayed and even shouted to the Valar to help save her friend. She knew that a fall from this height... Valar, he would never stand a chance.

Legolas stirred in her arms and she murmured soft reassurances to him, hoping he would settle once more. "Easy, Legolas we are nearly there, just rest."

Unbelievably, he soon did settle again. She looked back to where she had last seen Nestoron, just to gasp once more as Faunryn miraculously caught Nestoron in his claws. She could have shouted her joy to the star-filled heavens.

She watched closely as her friend was gently lowered until they reached about fifteen feet when, to her horror, he fell once more. This time Faunryn could not stop him and he fell all the way, impacting hard on the grounds of Imladris.

Even from this height, she could see the healers running towards his form. He was injured. There was no possibility that he could not be. She just prayed he was not too badly injured or on his way to Námo … NO! She would not even think of that possibility, not yet.

For now, she could do nothing but pray, and pray she did, for all of them.

It was a huge relief when she finally made out Erestor's form standing with what looked to be a small army of healers in the courtyard of The Last Homely House. They must have sent for extra healers at some point, she did not remember that many being at Imladris before. She gave a tearful wry smile. The only one remaining on the three Eagles who did not need a healer's help was Mithrandir, so yes, they needed the healers.

One by one they landed. Thoronneth, bearing Doroniel and Legolas, touched down first, as if it had been planned. Erestor hurried over to them, trailed closely by Arwen.

"Who do you have with you?" Erestor's voice was urgent.

"Caun Legolas." Her reply was curt as she checked him once more.

"Good, do you need aid for yourself?" Erestor could not help but ask the question as he helped to remove the ropes holding her and Legolas on the Eagle. He had known Doroniel for years and had never once seen her look like this, hair almost plastered to her face, dirty and looking so pale and ill it scared him. She had obviously been through a terrible ordeal.

"Yes, just to get down. Hir Elrond is on the Eagle w…with no second rider, Nest... He... He..." Fresh sobs stole her voice and she could say no more.

Erestor gave her a sympathetic look then closed his eyes momentarily. "He…fell. I know, Doroniel, we saw. There are healers with him already. They will have him back here soon. I must go speak with Mithrandir. Can you help Doroniel down?" The Elf behind Erestor rushed to help her.

Arwen was already with the others trying to help Elrond down, although it seemed to be causing Elrond pain. Mithrandir unceremoniously handed Aran Thranduil over to two other Elves and hurried to help the Lord of Imladris.

They needed to be informed of the severity and extent of his hurts. "Elrond has been badly burnt over his upper body. You need to be very gentle when you handle him. Arwen, come away. You should not be seeing this." Mithrandir gave her no choice in the matter and gently but firmly turned her away from seeing her Adar in this state. He pulled her back towards the doors to the house. He left her there. His mind was focused on returning to see about the fallen healer.

"Is that Legolas!" Her voice was horrified at the Elfling's appearance as he was carried past her, now that the blanket covering him had been opened slightly. Compared to the last time she had seen him, this was an utter change. She barely recognised him.

Behind her, Doroniel answered the question. "Yes, that is Legolas. We need to take him inside. He is very ill." Arwen's horrified eyes followed the gaunt, dangerously ill Elfling. She was torn now, torn as to who she should go to. On one hand, was Legolas, on the other, her Ada. Doroniel noted her hesitation.

"I will stay with Legolas, Arwen. Go to your Adar."

Wide, horrified eyes looked at her for a moment and returned to Legolas. "You will stay with him?"

"Yes, Arwen, nothing on Arda could tear me from him." Doroniel's voice was so determined that all who heard her knew she meant it. "Although, I may need a little help to follow him." She smiled wryly at the Elf who helped steady her trembling body. Arwen was already gone, rushing back to her Adar's side.

As Doroniel was helped slowly up the stairs, slightly behind Legolas, she heard clearly. "I will go with you, Gandalf. His fall is my fault." There was no mistaking Faunryn's voice. It sounded close to tears. Could an Eagle cry? Doroniel could not help but wonder as the halls of healing surrounded her with their calming familiarity.

Mithrandir had already informed Erestor that he would return to the place where Nestoron fell. Originally, he meant to be on Gwaihir, but then Faunryn stepped forward. The tone of his voice and the distressed look in the young Eagle's eyes made up Mithrandir's mind for him. If he did not take the young Eagle with him, he may never wish to carry another on his back. It had not been his fault that Nestoron had fallen, after all.

"I will go with Faunryn. Be ready for Nestoron's return. He will be badly hurt, I fear. We will bring him back as quickly as we can. We will then return for Calandor, Glorfindel and Gailarphen." Mithrandir said no more, but with a sprightliness that belied his aged appearance, he mounted the young Eagle. He reached forward to pat Faunryn on his eye ridges almost as one would do to a cat. "You are not to blame for Nestoron's fall and you did all you could to stop him. You are blameless, my friend."

"I want to get back to him as soon as we can, Gandalf. I am worried for him." Faunryn fluttered his wings in agitation.

"Then let us go, my friend." Mithrandir had not even finished the sentence before they were already in the air. Faunryn had not exaggerated when he said that he wanted to be with Nestoron as soon as possible.

It was the work of very few minutes for them to reach the site where Nestoron had fallen. Faunryn settled gently to the ground and landed without even a bump. Mithrandir slid from his back and hurried to Nestoron's side.

"How is he?" He asked the first Elf nearest to him.

"Nestoron fell badly from about..."

"…fifteen feet. I know. I was on the next Eagle." Mithrandir lowered his voice. "Choose your words with care and keep your voice down. The Eagle behind me is the one Nestoron was riding and he is very upset." Mithrandir's voice had a hard edge to it.

"Very upset? And so he..."

"This Eagle's name is Faunryn and it was not his fault that the ropes that Nestoron was holding frayed or that Nestoron fell! Faunryn did not have to fly back with me, but he was worried about Nestoron and so asked to be the one to help." Mithrandir's voice was icy cold.

"Are you telling me that I should be grateful for that or that he did not tie the rope on properly or that Nestoron fell because he wanted to!" The elf, Amdrenin, sounded just as mad as, and much louder than, Mithrandir himself.

"I told you to keep your voice quiet, or do you wish to spend the rest of your immortal days as a rat?" It was not often that Mithrandir became this angry, but he was filled with worry about Legolas, Elrond, Thranduil and now Nestoron. It had been something like a terrible nightmare that you cannot wake up from. Even so, he had his staff in hand, willing to carry out his threat.

A high squawk and a rustle of wind brought everyone in the small clearing to a halt.

"Gandalf, tell me, how is Nestoron? I cannot see him. What are you arguing about? Gandalf please!" Faunryn was becoming increasingly upset at the wait and listening to the argument. He made certain they knew that he was still there.

Mithrandir took a deep, calming breath as he tried to keep himself from overreacting. Luckily, he saw Master Healer Linnathon tending to Nestoron. "Linnathon how is Nestoron?"

"He is severely injured, Mithrandir." They all shivered at the low deep moan from Faunryn when he heard the healer's news. It sounded as if the Eagle was in pain as well. Even Amdrenin could only feel pity for the large raptor then.

"How badly and can we be of help?" Mithrandir moved nearer to Nestoron so that he could see for himself. He winced at the extent of Nestoron's obvious injuries. He was sure there were others, less visible, as well.

"Can Fanryn..."

"Faunryn." Mithrandir corrected, without thinking.

"Hannon le, Mithrandir. Can Faunryn carry Nestoron back to the House of Healing on the board that he is laying on?" Linnathon and Talagan were working together, wrapping Nestoron's left leg in bandages to keep the wound as clean as possible.

"Yes, I can. I can Gandalf. He will meet with no further harm. On my egg, I promise it!" Faunryn called as he eagerly stepped closer, causing some of the gathered Elves to step backwards out of his way.

"I think that is your answer, Linnathon. How are we going to do this? I do not think it would be a good idea to have Nestoron on Faunryn's back." Mithrandir sounded thoughtful.

"I could carry him on the board in my claws. Nothing would harm him there." Faunryn was clearly eager to help his injured friend.

"Do you think that would work?" Mithrandir turned back to Linnathon.

"Yes, it would be better than carrying him back over the uneven ground between here and the House of Healing, much smoother. We must make certain that Nestoron is securely tied to the board properly. We need some strong rope. Amdrenin, could you run and get some? Test it to be sure that it is strong enough. We cannot have Nestoron able to move from the litter." Linnathon was thinking rapidly, running through the procedure in his mind.

Amdrenin nodded and ran off in search of the strongest rope to be had.

After a very few minutes of anxious waiting, Faunryn asked. "Will he be gone long, Gandalf? We need to get Nestoron to the House of Healing quickly and I want to check on Legolas." Faunryn sounded increasingly anxious and uncertain. Mithrandir rose and hurried to his side.

"They are just getting some rope, to immobilise Nestoron on the litter and then we can go. See, he returns already."

True to his word, Amdrenin hastened back with a thin coil of smoky-grey rope in his hands. He was breathless as he joined them.

"Did you test the rope?" It was surprisingly Linnathon who asked.

"Yes, Master Linnathon, it was the strongest rope that I could find; hithlain from Lorien. What do you want us to do?" He was eager to help his injured tutor in any way he could.

"We need to lift the litter with Nestoron so that we can secure him to it. Faunryn, could you help with that? We could make certain that the rope is securely tied then." Linnathon asked the worried Eagle.

"Yes, I can do that. I will not even rock the litter. His litter will be held gently, as if it was my own egg." They all watched as he moved forward and so gently lifted the litter in the talons of one foot that Nestoron was held still without tipping or rocking. He still moaned with pain, but it did not increase from what it was before he was lifted.

Three of the Elves moved beneath the wooden litter. When the ropes were passed underneath the board, they pulled them through and up again. Again and again this happened until Linnathon was happy that the ropes were tight enough and positioned so they would not aggravate any wounds. The Elves then moved away and Faunryn lowered the pallet. True to his vow, the pallet had not wobbled once.

Linnathon stood back, he was sure that the pallet and Nestoron were safe, but still he was not happy. What if something happened on the short journey? He would never forgive himself.

He stood up straight, his mind was made up. "Faunryn, could I impose upon you to carry me as well? I wish to be close to Nestoron in case he needs assistance."

If an Eagle could puff up with pride Mithrandir was sure that Faunryn was doing just that. "You will not fall, I promise. I shall hold the litter close and you may ride on top of my other foot, so if you need to reach Nestoron you can bend over him. Are we ready? We need to get back so that he can be helped and..."

"…you wish to see how Legolas fares." Mithrandir finished for him. Faunryn bobbed his head in agreement.

Mithrandir turned to Linnathon. "I need a few short minutes with Nestoron. He is obviously in great pain and I do not wish him to be awake for the flight. I fear he may panic at finding himself in the air once again. Can you all give me room?"

Linnathon was reluctant at first, but he agreed with Mithrandir, it would be best if Nestoron was not awake for any of it. The herbs he had give Nestoron earlier had not been enough to send him back into oblivious sleep and he dared not give him more.

The Elves moved aside. Mithrandir knelt and gently placed his right hand against Nestoron's cheek as he leaned over him, placing his left hand softly over his heart. Mithrandir gazed intently into Nestoron's pain-glazed eyes for a moment then closed his own eyes. All that they could hear was a soft low muttering that none of them understood. As Mithrandir settled into a soft rhythmic chant, Nestoron's eyes closed and his moaning stopped as his breathing settled into a slow steady rhythm.

Faunryn and Linnathon both were more than ready to go by the time the wizard opened his eyes again. "He will rest easy for a short time now, but we must make haste, it will not last against such pain." He stood as he spoke, moving to the Great Eagle standing anxiously nearby.

As he gathered his healer's bag and placed it on his shoulder Linnathon looked to Mithrandir. "How is Caun Legolas?" Linnathon could not help it. He had to ask. Nestoron's injuries had to be worth it. Linnathon was not yet aware that Lord Elrond and Aran Thranduil were counted among the severely wounded as well.

Mithrandir climbed aboard the great Eagle and got comfortable. He had traveled this way before and was used to it, even enjoyed it. "He was very ill the last time I saw him, but if we return quickly we can all see. Faunryn are you ready?"

Faunryn then rose into the air, to hover barely above the ground while Nestoron's litter could be lifted so that he could grip it. They did not let go until they were sure that Faunryn had the litter held properly.

Faunryn took it with such solemnity that it touched the hearts of many of the Elves who were watching. Many had come to help, only to find they were not needed.

Linnathon stepped up onto the Eagle's massive foot and held tight to his leg. He found that there was plenty of room to stand. It was actually quite a useful perch for a short trip. He was able to move easily if Nestoron needed him.

Faunryn understood their need and thought nothing of it. "I am ready and Nestoron is held in place tightly. Nothing more shall happen to him." All the Elves let go and before Faunryn could go from hovering to full flight, they all bowed, hands over their hearts. Faunryn was puzzled. Why had they done this? It must be because of his passengers. Even so, the Eagle bobbed his head and then rose smoothly into the sky with one broad sweep of his wings.

On Faunryn's taloned foot, Linnathon had the flight of his life. Standing faced backwards, he could see Nestoron, his friend and patient, clearly. Between watching Nestoron and the ground, he almost groaned when it was over. He was extremely glad to get Nestoron to the House of Healing, but he also did not want it to end.

Faunryn hovered once more as the Elves in the courtyard rushed to help them. They took the litter from his firm grasp. Then he let Linnathon jump lightly from his claw and move away. This gave him enough room to land so Mithrandir could dismount.

Linnathon and the four elves bearing Nestoron's litter had already disappeared into the Halls of Healing. Mithrandir stayed behind for a short time to comfort Faunryn.

"You have done well, Mellon-nin. I thank you deeply, as did the Elves."

"Is that what they were doing? But, they blamed me..." Faunryn was hopping from foot to foot in his continued distress.

"They may have, at first..." Mithrandir no longer had to try to find the Eagle by the starlight. The approaching dawn had begun to lighten the eastern horizon over the mountains. When they flew back for the others, dawn's light should be bright in the sky. "But not at the end, their bow was a show of thanks and respect for you, my friend, and you alone."

A noise from behind them made them both start. They had been deeply involved in their conversation. Several Elves carried another litter. This puzzled Mithrandir because he had not realised that anyone else was injured. He stepped forward and inquired of one of the Elves. It happened that it was the one he had been so angry with earlier.

"Who else was injured? We did not know."

"It is Faelien, Nestoron's bonded. We did not know it before this day, but she is pregnant. She saw Nestoron fall and has gone into shock. We are worried about the babe. If Nestoron passes over to Mandos' Halls, I fear for them both."

While they talked, they watched the silent procession pass by. Mithrandir could not help but feel compassion and trepidation. He hoped the young Imladris healer did not pass. He rather liked him. Nestoron was one of the few besides Erestor who could make Elrond and Glorfindel listen to sense sometimes when the two Elrondionnath got up to their mischief.

"We will pray that does not happen. I will look at her and see what can be done." Mithrandir's mind was clear. Nestoron did not need this strain and worry. If her pregnancy could help keep him in this Realm, then he would help all he could.

"You would do that!" Amdrenin suddenly stood a little taller with a spark of hope in his eyes.

"Aye, of course, I would do that. Go and help. I will be but a second."

"Indeed, Lord Mithrandir, and hannon le." He turned to the Great Eagle watching them. "Hir Faunryn, my name is Amdrenin and I am a student of healing. Nestoron is my tutor. My words when first we met were harsh and ill-thought. I did not mean any of it. I hope you will forgive me." Amdrenin bowed to the Eagle once more.

"They have been forgotten, my friend. Any time you need help, whistle and I will come. But only if you bring me word of Legolas, Elrond and Thranduil?" Faunryn was worried once more.

Mithrandir nodded to Faunryn. "I promise, I will let you know what is happening with them and, if I cannot, mayhap you would not mind, would you, Amdrenin?"

"Indeed I would not mind, Lord Faunryn."

"Then go get him some news. I have things to do here. Go!" Mithrandir ushered him away like a little elfling, gesturing 'shoo' to set him on his way. A very bemused Amdrenin did as he was bidden.

Once they were alone, Mithrandir turned once more to the Eagle. His visage was stern and the Eagle seemed to hunch in upon himself. "I am going to say this to you once, my friend." His voice was kind and Faunryn pulled himself up to his own height again. "You have done nothing to garner blame for what happened. It could have happened to any of us."

A rustle of wings told them they were no longer alone. On either side of the young Eagle landed Thoronneth and Gwaihir.

"It could even have happened to me." Gwaihir spoke as he settled by the youngest Eagle of their current flight. "It is unfortunate that it happened, but we all saw how you did your best to stop his fall." He flipped a wing over Faunryn as if to hug him. "I am more proud of you than you can know. I will make sure that all of our kin know about this day and how you helped, not only once, but twice. You succeeded in catching him after I failed."

"But, why did he not catch hold of my wing? If he had done that, he would not have fallen." Faunryn lowered his head and tried to tuck it under his wing. Thoronneth stopped him. Faunryn looked up and Mithrandir could swear he saw a tear, pearly white, running from his eye.

"Gandalf, will you leave us here? I wish to comfort this fledgling. I fear that your skills are needed within. We will be here when you need us." Gwaihir had not taken his wing back but rather seemed to be hugging the young Eagle.

Mithrandir nodded with understanding." Of course. I will ask for some of the windows to be opened so that you can see inside. I am sure that will help you all. I repeat though, Faunryn. You were not to blame." With that, Mithrandir turned and walked into the Halls of Healing.

He hurried through to the healing ward, determined that nothing would hinder his arrival there. He needed to know what was happening within before he would agree to leave once again. He needed to check on all his friends. He knew that Faunryn was in the best of hands, so to speak.

Mithrandir did not expect the level of noise that hit him as he entered the usually quiet and calm main healing area. It seemed as if everyone and everything was in a state of pure panic. Linnathon noted his presence though.

"Mithrandir, I must speak with you here!" His voice was filled with such urgency that Mithrandir hurried over to him. His shock was great when he moved closer and saw that Linnathon was not treating Nestoron as he had expected, but rather was bent over a convulsing Legolas.

"Where is Doroniel!" He looked around for the young Mirkwood healer.

"She collapsed while walking inside. There is something wrong with both the Caun and Aran Thranduil. Please tell me what you know?"

Mithrandir then noticed Thranduil in a bed across the way. He was in the throes of another attack, having great difficulty breathing and unable to talk. Two young healers were trying to restrain the Mirkwood Elf and help him at the same time. Neither seemed to be able to help much, no matter what they did. Thranduil kept trying to reach for his son, the healers tried to keep him calm and on his own bed. The more they tried the more panicked Thranduil became. If this did not stop soon Mithrandir dreaded to think what could happen.

"Legolas has been targeted by evil." A sharp gasp ran around the chamber. "He has been injured by Orcs and the wound was poisoned. He has a fractured skull with resulting problems. He also has a severe injury to his left leg, including multiple fractures. The wound was so deep that Gailarphen had to cut down to the bone to remove the diseased tissue. He has stopped breathing at one time as well. Thranduil? He has been hit by lightning, as have Doroniel and Legolas. It has damaged Thranduil's heart gravely and he has been having these episodes when Legolas is unwell."

Linnathon looked slightly incredulous at the wizard's choice of words. "Unwell? Mithrandir this is more than unwell! We need to get this attack under control and find out the cause." He looked around for someone to ask for help, someone who was at least free at this moment.

Arwen stood leaning back against the bed where Doroniel lay unconscious. Doroniel's bed stood beside Elrond's own bed where he lay propped up on pillows, unconscious. Arwen's arms were wrapped tightly around her own shoulders, crying. She looked beyond terrified.

Linnathon decided it would be better for her to be busy. "Erestor, may I suggest you get Arwen out of here while we get this place under control? I need a warm, only warm mind, water bath for Legolas. I think that she should be the one in charge of it."

"Yes, I agree. I will see that it is done." Erestor looked at the Elfling that seemed to fight all of the Elves that were trying to help him. Watching this, Erestor felt as if he could cry. It was all just a little overwhelming. He had to do something. Standing tall he walked over to where Arwen stood. She was trembling from head to toe and did not look up as he approached her. "Arwen?" She gave no indication that she had heard him. "Arwen!" This time he spoke with a little more urgency and gently shook her arm. "Come with me, Penneth. I have need of your help, urgently." His voice was soft and it was that which finally caught her attention.

"Erestor? Ada? Legolas? Uncle Thranduil?" She sounded so uncertain. She had always thought of Thranduil as an Uncle from a young age and that had not changed.

"They need our help to get well again, Arwen. Will you help them?" He smiled at her gently. He was fully aware of the turmoil the young Elleth felt.

"How can I help? I will do anything, Erestor, anything!" Arwen pulled herself together although her tears had not stopped.

"We need a warm bath run for Legolas. They need to bathe him to bring his fever down. It has to be warm and not hot, neither can it be cold."

Arwen nodded and wiped the tears from her cheeks with the palm of her hands. "I know, Erestor. That would send Legolas further in to a state of shock than he is at the moment. I can do this." She hurried from the large chamber, headed for the bathing chamber close by. Her bearing was straighter and her step firm, as she now had something that she could do to be of use. She had a purpose to focus on.

Erestor knew the feeling all too well. He wished there were more he could do to aid all of them, but especially his Lord and old friend, Elrond.

Erestor took a deep, calming breath and turned back to the Master Healer. "How can I be of use to you, Linnathon?" For the time being Linnathon and Thelion, as the two most senior healers present, were in joint charge, at least until Gailarphen returned. The thought of having Glorfindel back and in charge of Imladris was at this moment very welcome to Erestor. He had not slept well in several days and it was beginning to be felt keenly.

"You can go into the next chamber and see if Thelion needs any help. If he is happy, you can return here to sit next to Doroniel and Elrond and watch them. I am worried that Elrond is so quiet." He was surprised at that, with the looks of his injuries, Elrond should be in as much pain as Legolas.

"Gailarphen dosed him with Poppy tea. The other herbs were not working, so he resorted to that." Mithrandir had moved and was trying to help calm Legolas.

Linnathon was mixing a thick herb cream to help stop the seizure. "What happened to Elrond? It looks as if he has some serious burns?" He had waited until Erestor left the chamber before inquiring. He did not want to further upset the other Lord.

"Yes, Elrond was trying to help this little one. He had stopped breathing and Elrond was trying to bring him back. I was not in the area at the time, but this is what I have been told. Elrond was knocked backwards with force and landed in the fire. He has burns to his eyes. I will look at them later." Mithrandir was trying to keep Legolas calm but nothing was helping. He could feel the heat rising from his fevered body.

"Knocked backwards!" Linnathon sounded utterly incredulous.

"Yes, Legolas belies his strength with his appearance at present. Just ask Lathron when he arrives." Mithrandir sounded grim. He did not like lying to Linnathon, but equally he did not want to mention the Rings of Power that they each had in their keeping. "I will look at Elrond's eyes when I return. I will be able to help him, I think."

"Lathron?" Linnathon, distracted with his work, was beginning to echo everything that Mithrandir was saying.

"Yes, Lathron. He is one of Thranduil's guards. They should arrive here within the next week or so." Mithrandir's voice was gruff as it tended to become when the wizard was annoyed.

"It may be wise for you to warn Erestor of that little fact." Linnathon sounded a little amused as he began to roll the paste between his fingers.

"I would imagine that Erestor is already aware of it, unless he is a fool, which I know from experience that he is not." His voice had a tinge of anger in it.

Luckily for the unwitting healer, he had other things to take his attention away. "I am ready to give him this now. I need him held still on his left side." He motioned for two very new student healers to assist Mithrandir to move the young Prince.

The three turned Legolas onto his left side, while Linnathon pulled the blanket up. It was only then that Linnathon realised that the Elfling was naked, apart from a thin tunic that fell to his hips and tied at the front.

Linnathon nodded his approval and commented. "Someone was thinking well. We cannot move his leg, not with that injury. Just try to hold him as still as you possibly can?"

The three of them did so and Mithrandir positioned himself to hold Legolas' upper body so that he could continue to whisper in his ear. None of them could hear what he was saying. It was meant for the Elfling only.

Linnathon gave the herb cream without pausing. They had to get this fever down and the seizure stopped.

"Why do you have to give it on his side?" Idhron asked from where he bent over Legolas' legs.

"He is Caun Legolas." Linnathon's voice was hard. "And he may be able to hear us. I will explain in a few minutes."

Idhron blushed right to the tips of his ears at the rebuke. "I am sorry."

Linnathon lightly shook his head. "No, I am. I should not expect you to know this, but it is one of the things that you should learn from the start. Hearing is one of the last things to go and the first thing to return when someone regains consciousness." Linnathon smiled at the young Elf then turned back to Legolas.

If he had waited a moment, he would not have missed the smirk and look of cold condescension that the other new student healer threw Idhron. It caused his blush to deepen. Idhron deliberately looked away.

Idhron could not understand what it was, but there was something about his fellow student, a student he was meant to work closely with and help over the next few years. He could do that and would, but it did not mean he had to like the other Elf. They had known each other from childhood and had, at one time, been close friends. Tarias had moved away to Lothlorien for some years and they had lost contact. Then Tarias' family had moved back near Imladris last year so that Tarias could begin his training with Elrond, one of the best healers on Middle Earth.

Idhron had been delighted to find out who his fellow student healer would be. Elrond only accepted two a year and he only took the best. That it was his friend had been a great joy and comfort to him.

That is, until he met the other Ellon once more. Tarias had changed beyond all comprehension. Gone was the easygoing friend and in his place was this total stranger who was delighted when Idhron was corrected for even the smallest error. No, this was not the friend he had once known. If he could get back the friend that he knew long ago, he would be much happier.

"You can relax your grip on Caun Legolas. He will still be..." Linnathon spoke too late as Legolas' arm came up and connected to Tarias' chin.

"Why you little Brat..." Tarias spoke without thinking. He had also pulled back, releasing his hold on the Prince. Only Mithrandir and Idhron still holding him kept Legolas on the bed.

Mithrandir wasted no time or words on the junior healer. "I would guard my tongue if I were you." His voice was colder than the winds on Caradhras. Cold enough to make Tarias shiver involuntarily though his eyes burned with an emotion that seem far out of place with the small bump he had received.

Seeing that Legolas was still safely held on the bed, Linnathon looked up, his fair face darkening with anger.

"That is more than enough, Tarias! If you cannot restrain yourself around patients that have no idea what they are doing, you should not be here!"

Tarias looked at him, his own face heated as his temper flared once more. "You have no right to speak to me like that!" The rage that burned in his brown eyes flared brighter.

"Yes, in here I can and I will. And I will go one step further. Leave. Go to my office and do not move from there. I will speak with you later. And Tarias?" The black-haired healer jerked his head angrily at the glaring student. "I would watch my step. I will know if my papers have been moved."

Tarias could not keep his eyes from widening. Linnathon could not have known...could he? Why had he been rifling through the healer's desk anyway?

"There will also be a guard standing on the door. You may not leave before we speak. Go and calm yourself. I have no time to waste on you at present." Linnathon was angrier than he let show. This was just one more item added to a growing list. He ignored the student then, expecting to be obeyed without question.

Linnathon turned back to Legolas. "Good, Caun Legolas is calming. You can both release him now. Idhron, would you stay with the Caun? Mithrandir, I need to see to Thranduil. You know some of what has happened?"

"Yes, I know a small part of the happenings." They moved to the bed of the still-struggling King, whose face had assumed an alarming shade of mauve. Linnathon knew that Thranduil was close to total collapse. He quickly moved to the herb table nearby to get the herb that Thranduil needed. He rapidly crushed it and added it to water. He then carefully measured out a pale green powder from a small jar on a shelf into a palm-sized shallow bowl and handed it to Mithrandir. "This needs to melt under Aran Thranduil's tongue while I get the herbs ready. The other healers will aid you."

"Thank you." Mithrandir took the powder from Linnathon. He had seen Captain Bremoline giving Thranduil this herb so he had no worries about giving it. Perhaps he could also do a little extra for his friend. The two healers still trying to help Thranduil looked up briefly then moved to make room so that Mithrandir could help the panting, panicking King. Within seconds and without any fuss, much to the two healers' amazement, the herb had been administered.

"Stand back now, please? I wish to speak with Aran Thranduil." Mithrandir could tell the two were not happy with this. "All is going to be well, please, just give me a moment alone with him." They did. Linnathon raised an eyebrow as he mixed the herb tea, but said nothing. He had heard many things about the ancient Maia and Hir Elrond trusted him above all.

Thranduil immediately tried to reach for Legolas. "Thranduil, Mellon-nin, look at me." He waited patiently, or so it seemed. Inside he was burning to find out how Nestoron was. "It is I, Mithrandir. Look at me."

Slowly, panicked eyes turned towards him. "Legolas is sleeping safely. Look at him, Mellon-nin."

Linnathon was watching this play out with amazement. He could hear, and almost feel, the power in the old Wizard's voice. Could it... no his eyes were fooling him, but yes, Aran Thranduil was calming just by the Maia talking to him. Well this was a first among a day of rather memorable events for him.

"That is it, Mellon-nin, see how he breathes softly? Try and calm your breathing to match that." Mithrandir gently touched the sweaty forehead, reaching to also feel his heart. They had all seen Elrond do this and nothing more was thought about it. "Good, a little more...more. Perfect." He smiled and nodded at the King. "Now does that feel a little better?"

Thranduil could only nod. He had no breath to talk yet.

"Good, they are going to take Legolas and give him a bath to try to bring his fever down. He will be fine. They will only take him next door if I know Arwen. You are to take the tea that Linnathon has made and rest until Legolas is back beside you. Do you understand?"

Worry shined from Thranduil's eyes as he glanced from his son to Mithrandir. "He will be fine and I will be nearby. If you are better when we get back I am sure that we can move Legolas so that he is beside you in your bed. Is that not right, Linnathon?" Mithrandir seemed to spear him in place with those knowing blue eyes that seemed to gaze right into his Fea.

"Indeed, Mithrandir." He found himself agreeing. "As long as he truly rests during the time that Legolas is bathed. Here is your tea, Aran Thranduil. I want you to drink it right down. We will then leave you to rest." Linnathon watched with satisfaction as Thranduil slowly sipped the tea. The minute it was finished, he rested back, more relaxed than he had been since he awoke here.

Mithrandir stood and beckoned the incredulous healer away from the bed. "I need to speak with you, Linnathon."

"What is it, Mithrandir?" He realised that Mithrandir was leading him to Elrond's bed.

"I wish to go and see how Nestoron is doing. Since Erestor has not come back, I think that they are in need of help in there, but you may need to look at Elrond and have someone see to Doroniel, now that the panic with Thranduil and Legolas is over." Mithrandir took his hand and gently had him touch Elrond's forehead.

Linnathon's eyes widened with shock as he felt the pallid skin. He let out a startled oath and called over one of the healers who had been helping Thranduil. "Tirith, I need you here!"

Mithrandir slipped away. Once he had ascertained that Nestoron was alright, he would return to the group moving towards Imladris. Elrond was in good hands and he needed to get Calandor and the other two, no doubt angry, Elven Lords back to Imladris.

Leaving Linnathon barking orders behind him, he went into the other chamber.

The difference could not have stunned him more. This chamber was quiet and the air strained. The healers moved around the beds silently. Anything spoken was soft and urgent.

Mithrandir moved beside the Master Healer. Thelion was overseeing all the care to both of his patients. He was currently working over Nestoron's leg with the assistance of two other healers, Neithan and Celeg.

"How is Nestoron?" He kept his voice low as well.

"Better than I could have hoped. He does have some damage to his spine, although his neck is without damage. I am relieved at that. We must wait to see how bad it is. His stomach is softer so I hope that the internal damage is not as bad. He still has great trouble with his breathing. I do not know how many ribs are broken yet, but there are many. Nestoron has a nasty fracture to his skull, but he has regained consciousness, which is good." Thelion grinned without mirth. "I doubt he would agree with that. His friend helped him though."

"His friend?" Mithrandir was not sure what Thelion was talking about for all of about a second. Thelion gestured distractedly to the high windows. They were all open. Looking through one of them with an anxious look in his eyes was Faunryn.

Mithrandir had to smile. The young Eagle looked as if he would not easily be persuaded to leave. "Faunryn."

"Gandalf, I spoke with Nestoron. He sleeps now. I did not know that his mate was bearing a Hatchling. I will have to congratulate him."

"I think that he would like that." Mithrandir took the time to look around the chamber. Erestor was sitting beside the other bed in the room, Faelien's right hand in his own larger hand. She was pale and still unconscious. He turned back to Thalion. "Can I help with Nestoron?"

"Nay, Mithrandir. I am setting and cleaning his leg now. I will set his arm then see what I can do about his ribs." Thalion sounded distracted as he worked.

"I will see what help I can give Faelien then." Mithrandir moved and made his way to Faelien.

"How fare you now, Erestor?" Mithrandir smiled down at the ancient scholar. He had rarely seen Erestor look so tired, or worried.

"I am well. How fare Thranduil and Legolas?" He gently set Faelien's hand by her side on the bed before he rose to make way for Mithrandir to work.

"They have settled now. The healers have begun to see to Doroniel and Elrond. I wish to see to Faelien and then make the promised return trip for Calandor, Glorfindel, and Gailarphen. I think the latter two are needed here."

"I agree, Mithrandir. I shall leave you to tend this unfortunate Penneth while I arrange things in readiness for the rest of Thranduil's group. I am sure I have other matters awaiting my attention as well." Erestor excused himself and left, seeming more like his normal self than he had been, though he seemed to bear a great weight on his shoulders.

With a heavy sigh, Mithrandir took Erestor's place. He gently lifted Faelien's limp hand. Closing his eyes, he blocked out all other activity in the almost-silent chamber. He gently placed her hand back on the bed and reached for her forehead and placed the other hand lightly over her heart.

Slowly, he was drawn to the spark that was the fea of Nestoron's bonded. There, a glimpse of the spark, then another, though weaker as Faelien fought against the grief and fear that pressed her down. He moved closer to that spark.

/Faelien, it is I, Mithrandir. Nestoron needs you, Penneth. You must remain here for him. Fight for the light, Dear One. Feel the Babe within you, nurture it. The Little One needs you. Nestoron has need of you both. Reach out, feel for your bond. He yet lives/

Mithrandir felt the tug and then…

/He remains with me? He has not passed to Námo's care/ The reply he sought was weak and faint, but it was the best result he could have hoped for.

/Seek your bond, Faelien. Feel it and understand. I would not lie to you and neither would Nestoron. Feel./

The spark flickered weakly, seeming to go out for a second. He feared at that moment that he had lost all three of them but then a sun-bright spark of pure white joy filled him.

/He lives! Nestoron lives! My Life. My Heart. My Dear Sweet Meleth/

The joy filled and humbled the Maia. He had only ever felt two other Elves with a bond this strong with their life-mates, Elrond and Thranduil. It grieved his heart to know they were now parted from their bonded ones. Elrond was at least certain to be reunited with Celebrían when he sailed to Valinor. He could only hope that the same would be said of Thranduil and Minerella.

The bright light of her joy filled him, lifted him and gave him peace. Thank Ilúvatar, there was still joy and hope for the future to be had for the First Born this side of the Sundering Sea, if this strong bond was to be taken into account.

Something happened at that moment that would stay with Mithrandir for the rest of his days, both on Middle Earth and in Valinor. As if Faelien's joy was not enough, suddenly, another tiny spark flared into sight under his gaze, another burst of light that grew and seemed to bask in the light of Faelien's joy. New life, but such a strong spark surely cannot be diminished. Mithrandir was not aware of the tears of utter joy cascading down his cheeks to soak his grey, tattered beard. The Babe, their Babe, was strong and would live. Such wonder! Such joy!

He had done all he could and it would be enough. Now all he needed to do was help Nestoron and this budding, joyous family would grow together.

Mithrandir pulled back with great reluctance. Finally, his eyes opened and he was back in the chamber. He glanced about a little self-consciously as he realised just how wet his cheeks were. He looked down at Faelien and smiled at the healthy pink that now suffused her cheeks and the smile that graced her lips. Her hands lay protectively over her abdomen in the gesture of all expectant mothers the length and breadth of Arda. He sent his own silent thanks to the wonder of Ilúvatar's Song.

"Gandalf?" Faunryn sounded so dejected at seeing the Maia's tears that it was obvious that he thought the very worst.

Mithrandir did not get a chance to answer the poor young Eagle's query, for around him the chamber seemed to burst into life with activity that took Mithrandir's breath away.

"By the Valar! What is happening! He is better! Quickly, we need to set this leg. Look, his light! His fea grows stronger now. I do not understand, by the Light of the Valar and all that is Wondrous, but I do not care. He lives and he grows stronger! Neithan, Celeg, I need a potion to help replace blood. Now! Hurry! Whatever has happened, we have received the most wondrous help. He will live!" Thelion barely seemed to pause to breathe as his own joy filled the chamber.

Once more Mithrandir thought he could see a pearly white tear running from Faunryn's eye. This time, however, it was from utter joy. It sent a shiver down the spine as they heard the Eagle's joyous cry to the sky. "He Lives! My Friend Lives! Gwaihir, hurry! Look, they live, all three of them!"

Mithrandir could not stop the laugh of pure jubilation he felt bubbling up within him. Such wondrous joy he had not felt in such a long, long time. He had felt the ever-growing darkness that was sweeping across Arda, had felt their utter despair when Elrond and his children lost Celebrían and then the news of Minerella, but worse than that, the added news of Legolas, but this? This felt like the best of all celebrations, doubled over and over again! Mithrandir was not the only one laughing. Thelion finished setting Nestoron's leg and spoke to his friend with such joy that Mithrandir never wished to move from this spot, ever. The Maia knew at that moment that Ilúvatar's blessing filled this room with light and joy and healing grace.

The door to the chamber flew open with such haste that it seemed that it would be ripped from its frame. A whole swarm of worried Elves seemed to flood the once-solemn chamber in response to Faunryn's cry. Erestor surprisingly led the group. Worry seemed to seep from his every pore.

But then, Erestor stopped. Mithrandir sat back and watched the wondrous show before him. This was better than his grandest fireworks display!

Erestor's worried bearing seemed to flow away as he took in the healing light that seemed to flow throughout the room and between the two beds. His light also strengthened and brightened as he realised that his fears were ungrounded.

"Erestor? A suggestion, Mellon-iaur?" Mithrandir could not contain his own joy. "Bring Thranduil and Elrond in here, that they may get some benefit from Ilúvatar's blessing upon these bonded ones' love and their babe, their thriving babe!"

"Really? Mithrandir they are!" At Mithrandir's joyous chuckle and nod, he turned to the Elves with him. "Well, you heard! Now! Get Legolas! Wrap him. He can rest within his Ada's loving embrace. This may not heal him, but it will surely nurture him! Hurry." Erestor, normally the most staid and stern of Elves, seemed giddy as an Elfling as he literally swept them from the chamber.

Arwen entered the healing wing, wringing her wet sleeves, trying to keep herself from breaking down to wracking sobs again after helping the healers bathe Legolas. To see the once-joyful Elfling brought so low hurt more than she would have thought. She must remain strong. They all needed her to be strong, Ada, Uncle Thranduil, Legolas, and Nestoron. The list seemed to be growing. She was so lost in her melancholy that she paid no attention to the cacophony of noise.

That is, until she opened the once-quiet chamber. Quiet, in that it was organised chaos, as the healing wing tended to be in these conditions, but she did not expect this!

Arwen watched from the doorway with a stunned expression. In the middle of it all, she could see Erestor, an Erestor she had never seen before! He smiled brightly as beds were being lifted and carried from the healing ward and into Nestoron's chamber. Healers hurried in their tasks with joy on their faces.

She hurried to her tutor. "Erestor?"

They were moving Ada! Idhron and Linnathon moved beside his bed while they were working franticly on Elrond as if all the Nine Riders were on their trail and yet they appeared joyous!

And then she saw it. She saw the bright, white healing light, so bright that she had to shade her eyes and clear her suddenly thick throat.

"They live? All of them?" She turned wide eyes to Erestor, seeking reassurance.

Erestor pulled her into a quick hug, which was unusual for him. "Yes Penneth! Such wondrous news!" His eyes danced and their light was joyous in themselves.

Mithrandir, though, had his attention brought to earth with a somewhat small bump when a small hand curled around his and he looked down to the grey eyes that had opened. Faelien was awake. "He lives! We live! Mithrandir, you are the most wondrous being this Age has known. I must go to my bonded! Help me, saes?"

"You should be resting, not bouncing about like the youngest of Elflings!" Mithrandir tried to admonish her but the twinkle in his eyes took any sting out of his words.

"I am not resting when Nestoron has need of me!" She pouted and beamed a smile at the grey wizard the likes of which he had not seen since he had witnessed Legolas' birth.

Mithrandir did not think Minerella's joy that day could ever be eclipsed. It only rivaled her glowing smile on the day they announced to all their friends and the people of Mirkwood the news of the joyful begetting of a Royal Heir of Mirkwood. That had been one party to remember. Their joy had later been shadowed by fear when Legolas had been born so early and weak.

Mithrandir rose swiftly and bowed. The worries and cares seemed to slide from his worn body as rainwater from a leaf. "Then, My Lady, you can have my arm and I will take you myself." Mithrandir had just made her comfortable beside Nestoron's bedside, with her hand on his cheek, whispering in his ear, when they carried Thranduil and Legolas in.

For the first time since the lightning strike, Thranduil appeared at ease as he breathed in the scent of his own sweet, wonderful Elfling. He could recall his own joy at creating his precious son. He still missed Minerella more than he could comprehend. There was a gaping hole that could never truly heal, at least not until they were reunited again, but he would see her again. The three of them would be whole once more. Minerella had said it was to be so.

He realized that he had been given an invaluable gift. He had seen and held his beloved once more. That was more than some of his people and even his own parents had received. He had held his Adar, Oropher, as he passed into Námo's care in battle during the Last Alliance. Over half the Elves of Greenwood the Great had also perished in that devastating battle. He had also held his Naneth nearly a year later when she had faded with grief at Oropher's passing.

Somehow, he had been spared that fate, of slowly losing the will to continue with unbearable grief. Having Legolas to care for had given him the strength to put that inevitability to one side after Minerella's death, though he had come very close to giving up the battle after all those losses.

Minerella, is bonded love, was still here. He could still feel her presence in his heart, in his Fea. Thankful tears soaked the blond hair beneath him. They were tears of utter joy. She was there, with him and she would never leave him again. The Valar had granted him this gift, this joy. He would not fail them. He would not fail her!

He felt whole again. He felt stronger than he had since Legolas' birth and all the trauma that had brought. He was not well, he knew. He would be a fool to think otherwise, but he was stronger. He could cope. Legolas would not leave him. He would make sure that was so.

"Do you hear me, Las? I will not let you go. I will block your path every step of the way. I am your Adar and you will listen to me, my precious Las. Fight for me, as I will fight for you. I need you, Legolas, as you do me, beloved ion-nin." Thranduil took no notice of anything else that happened around him, lost in the moment and the realisation of how much he loved his son, the son he had almost lost so many times.

It was obvious that Legolas was meant for some greater purpose, but for what? He did not, could not know, but he would be there for him. He would encourage and cajole dependent of the need, but they would be there for him, the two of them, Minerella within his heart. He could not, would not lose Legolas without a fight.

"Fight, Las. Saes, nin dian Las. Fight with everything you have. Stay with me."

A hand on his arm made him jump and he looked up to see Mithrandir patting his arm. "He is, Thranduil. Look."

The pain lines that had haunted the pale, thin face had eased. Although he could still feel the fever that burned within Legolas, there was something else as well, something he could not grasp.

"Ada?" The voice was little more than a whisper.

"Legolas!" Thranduil looked down to see that his son's brilliant blue eyes were opened slightly. His joy was beyond that he had felt earlier. It was like the time twenty-five years ago when his son had first opened his eyes as Thranduil held him.

"Why are you crying, Ada?" Legolas was too weak to lift his hand to wipe the tears away.

"I am happy, Las, so happy to have you back." Thranduil wanted so much to hug his child, but he also dared not. Legolas was still too hurt, still too injured. There was a lot of healing to do, but together they would heal.

"I saw Nana." Legolas sounded so sleepy.

"So did I Penneth, so did I" Thranduil found that he was smiling uncontrollably, though tears still slipped down his cheeks.

"Uncle Thranduil?" Arwen was suddenly before him.

"Arwen?"

"Is Legolas going to be alright?" Arwen was smiling, as she smoothed Legolas' still-damp and matted hair away from the swollen forehead.

"Eventually, Penneth, we all will, including your Adar. Look." He nodded towards the bed where Elrond rested.

Linnathon looked exhausted, completely and utterly exhausted. He sat back with a sigh. Then he looked up.

"He has lost a lot of fluid and is extremely dehydrated. The burns are extensive and deep. He was in deep shock and I had not realised. We almost lost him." The sudden drop in the level of joy in the room was painful. "But, he is stronger now. With all our help, I believe that he will recover, no thanks to me." Linnathon's voice was bitter and hurt.

"None of that, Linn. Did you not just say that Elrond will recover?" Erestor stood in front of him, a concerned frown on his fair face.

"Eventually, yes." Linnathon shook his head in dismay. "But he almost stopped breathing at all. If we had not moved him when we did..."

Erestor laid a hand on Linnathon's shoulder and shook the Elf lightly. "But, we did move him and he is going to recover. I, for one, rejoice at your work, Linn, as will Elrond."

"Legolas! You... you…you can see me!" Thranduil's voice sounded so astounded and so faint that they all worried once more for a very short while.

"Yes, Ada. Sleepy. Trees are talking to me."

Mithrandir smiled down on the pair. "Stay and rest. Thranduil, keep him with you, it will help you both. Erestor, can you handle things from here if I return now to Calandor, Gailarphen and Glorfindel? They may never forgive me otherwise." Mithrandir turned to face the Scholar.

"Indeed, if I know Glorfindel, I am sure that he will be awaiting your return."

The Maia however did not think so. "No, he will have killed them! Or they will hope that he will have done so, to put them out of their misery!" The Maia seemed suddenly to not be in the same chamber as they were. His face showed great consternation.

"Mithrandir, Mellon-nin? What is wrong? Who will kill whom?" Erestor asked worriedly. Was the wizard having a vision?

"Glorfindel! They drugged him, him and Gailarphen both. He will kill them." He looked up expecting to see Faunryn watching through the open window. He blinked. Three Eagles' heads were poked in the openings, haloed by the rising sun, watching every bit of the action. That told the Maia that it was a lot later in the morning than he expected it to be. "Gwaihir, can we return to Thranduil's party with all haste?"

"Indeed, Gandalf. We want to return to speak with Legolas." Gwaihir sounded proud and happy all at once.

Thelion spoke from where he still worked on Nestoron. "It may be a while before Legolas can speak with you properly. Aran Thranduil, what did you mean about Caun Legolas being able to see again?" Thelion had picked that up in the background. Mayhap Linnathon was too exhausted to have heard it and process the comment properly?

"Indeed, Thelion, I wondered the same thing." Mithrandir suddenly turned to the surprised King.

"Did I... did I not mention that to you?" Thranduil sounded suddenly nervous, his voice still breathless and weak.

"No, you neglected to tell us this little factor." Mithrandir sounded angry.

"Legolas could not see when he woke up and neither could..." He was suddenly aware of Arwen watching them with wide and frightened eyes.

"Yes, we are aware of that extra little factor." Luckily, Mithrandir did not press for further news in front of Arwen. "We will be talking about this later."

"As you wish, Mellon-nin." Thranduil could not stop his grin. He felt slightly giddy now. Whatever the angry Maia wanted, he could have, so long as he did not have to leave his son.

They could all hear Mithrandir mumbling as he went out to meet his friends, the Great Eagles. They all laughed.

Across Middle Earth someone woke from another vision. For once, a smile and laughter was upon her lips as she realised that those she loved as her own were safe...for now.

"Nana, are you alright? You had another vision." Orophin sounded worried.

"I am well, Ion-nin. For once, it was a vision bearing good news. Elrond is safe, as are Thranduil and Legolas. Mithrandir is with them in Imladris. I must speak with your Ada on this matter. Have some Miruvor ready? Hannon le." Galadriel settled back and readied herself to contact her beloved Celeborn.

//Celeborn, Melethron/

/Galadriel? Are you well/ Celeborn sounded distracted.

/I am well. I just wanted to tell you what I have Seen. Elrond, Thranduil and Legolas have reached Imladris. Although they are each still very ill, they are safe./

/They are safe/ The relief that thrummed through their link was palpable.

/Yes, Melethron, they are safe. What news do you have/ Galadriel was worried, he sounded so...well, busy. She was aware that he was shielding himself from her as well.

/We ran into a little…distraction. Yrch./ If anything, his tone became more remote.

/Orcs! Have you had any sign of Elladan and Elrohir/ It was Galadriel's turn to become more alarmed now.

/No nothing, although we should reach Bree and Eirien by midday./

/I pray to the Valar that they are safe./

/Galadriel, Dearest One, if there was a problem, we would have been aware of it by now. We have defeated the group that we disturbe... No/

"Cel? Cel! Celeborn answer me/ There was nothing but silence along their link. /Celeborn you are scaring me/

/I... do... not... mean... to! Orcs, a large party, moving towards Bree./

Galadriel surmised that he must be in the midst of a battle even as they 'talked.' /You are well/

/Yes, but I cannot talk now... Ai/

Galadriel waited to hear what her bonded said next, but there was nothing forthcoming.

/Celeborn? Celeborn Silvertree! Answer me this minute! Cel/ Galadriel hurriedly searched their bond to make certain that Celeborn was still in this life with her. She was sure that he was, but she sagged with relief when she reached and felt that bond. It was not strong and he still did not answer, but it was there.

Slowly, she pulled herself out of their link. Celeborn would undoubtedly contact her again when he could.

She was greeted the moment her eyes opened. "Nana? Here is your Miruvor. Is Ada alright?" Orophin watched her worriedly.

"Yes, ion-nin. I just lost contact with him. He was a little... busy." She accepted the Miruvor and drank it, followed by the sweetened tea, before she lay back again to rest. She was not sure she could sleep. She was worried about Celeborn.

Orophin watched as his foster-mother settled back to rest. He had added the sleeping herb to her tea surreptitiously, as Celeborn had often directed him to do in the past. He knew that he would be in trouble when Galadriel realised what he had done, but she needed the rest. He stayed nearby as her eyes closed in sleep, due to the herbs.

The clearing was filled with brilliant light this time. It was light and airy and seemed to be full of bird song and she heard the gentle chattering of wild creatures on the ground.

She gazed around the clearing with a mixture of awe and curiosity. The last time she had been here, it had looked nothing like this. This was beautiful.

In front of her hung the web, it still looked tattered and very much the worse for wear, but it also looked stronger than it had before. It was now supported by two resilient strands, instead of only one, and they appeared stronger to the eye. Dew glistened on the shimmering threads in the shafts of sunlight as bright jewels strung on mithril strands.

As she watched, the scene faded into mist. A soft voice spoke, one she had never heard before, yet it seemed familiar and comforting.

/He has our love and our blessing, Care for him. Cherish him. The web must NEVER fall./

Galadriel drifted peacefully back into darkness...

The morning was glorious, so beautiful that it robbed Mithrandir of words. There were a few fluffy white clouds to be seen dotted about the pale spring sky. Yes, today was perfect to be out for a ride and what a ride this was!

Mithrandir had always loved flying with the Great Eagles that nested in the hills of the Misty Mountains. The power in their wings was spellbinding. The thrill that came from each swoop could leave him breathless.

Today was no exception and, although he should be exhausted and that exhaustion should be catching up with him, he felt nothing more than exhilaration.

He still held the joy within him stirred by the pure love and joy Faelien had felt concerning both Nestoron and their Babe. The wonders of the Valar were truly awe inspiring.

That led him to another thought - Legolas. The small Prince worried him and Thranduil's admission on his loss of sight only served to feed that worry. There had to be something more going on behind all this. He also wondered and worried about the timing of the Valar's blessing of joy. Oh, he knew the Valar worked in mysterious ways, but this mysterious?

Mithrandir sighed. He would certainly have to watch Legolas closely. It would be a pleasure to watch him grow and mature to the wonderful Elf he would no doubt become, of that Mithrandir was certain. It would also be fraught with danger. How could it be otherwise? In his few short years, he had already caused enough worry.

Minerella's loss was greatly felt, he had no doubt, but Thranduil and Legolas were strong enough to get through this and grow. It was a delight to watch them together when all was well.

The warmth of the sun was making him drowsy and he tried to blink himself awake. He had far too much to think of, to ponder. The Valar had sent him and his ilk to help protect Middle Earth and all its races, from Elves to the delightful Halflings.

His eyes drifted closed of their own volition and he felt himself relax forwards, along Gwaihir's back.

The sound of birdsong filled the air and the sunlight filtering through the trees of the glade was bright enough to make him shield his eyes.

Mithrandir felt compelled to look around him in sheer wonder.

Trees stood tall and proud, their boughs and bark the deep brown that comes with great age. Buds were sprouting and growing in the bright spring sunlight. He saw birds beginning their loving task of building their new nests to raise their chicks. Squirrels were doing likewise while still trying to recall where they had left their winter caches of food. Among the bushes and roots small animals went about their daily life. Mithrandir could swear that he saw a fawn lift its head and look directly at him with innocent brown eyes before it scampered off to join his mother.

This really was the Valar's work in all its glory. It made the ancient Maia feel humble that he had been chosen to help them with their work.

Hanging from one of the low-hanging tree limbs was the remnant of an old web. So tattered was it that it looked as if even a small breeze would banish it from this existence. It seemed to shimmer and Mithrandir could see dewdrops glistening like crystals as they hung from the strands.

Mithrandir could do nothing but look on. There was a message within this... vision, dream, whatever this was. Something was happening, but he did not yet understand the message. This only served to puzzle him even more. Suddenly a voice spoke in the still clearing causing Mithrandir to jump.

/To all ends there is a purpose. To see this through until the end, a web must be spun. In the span of its existence many strands will come and go, some will strengthen the web, some will weaken it, but all are necessary for it to continue./

/Of whom do you speak? I want to help, if I am able./ Mithrandir knew immediately that he was addressed by Irmo, the Vala of dreams and visions./You will know when the time is right, Olórin. Know that he has our blessing and love. There will be joy within his heart and it will be written in the sky and resound in the song of the trees./

/Please, Irmo, if I can help him, let me./ Mithrandir could only ask. If the task were this important…

/You already have, Dear Child. When the time is right, all will be revealed. Be patient and watch for signs of great danger. Our loved one will have need of you, as you will have of him, in time. Evil grows in power and its influence is felt far across Arda./

Legolas! It has been aimed at Legolas. Mithrandir's eyes were wide. And the incident earlier... Suddenly, many things became clearer to the Istari./We have eased his heart of sorrow and brought hope to him again, more than the vision of his mother could bring. He must recover from his wounds, Olórin. For now this is your task, to watch over and help the young Prince recover. The Other will come in due time and with distance, but be vigilant. Do not assume because he has our love that he cannot be lost./

/Is it Legolas? This web/

/That is difficult to ascertain and it is too early for that to be revealed. Ponder this, Olórin. There will come a time when two webs become one and all of Arda will rejoice, but that joy is bought with great grief and loss. Two webs will join together and prove stronger than any previously made./

/Two webs/ This was getting more confusing by the minute and Mithrandir knew that he would ponder long on this vision.

/That is what is foretold, Olórin, two webs intertwined, destined to meet and grow together. You will see the pattern of the web as events take place. You will see it strengthen and weaken, but it must survive. We will do our best to assure that./

/But, why a web/ Mithrandir hoped he did not sound as stupid as he felt. Rarely did he find something so confusing.

/All things in life are part of a web. It begins whole and pristine, glistening in the light of sun or moon. As destiny unfolds, some strands fall, lost in the mists of time. Others are there for the duration of the web, growing stronger, adding strength, keeping the web strong and whole. Evil powers seek ever to destroy the web. Evil's touch can cause the web to become tattered and torn, open to the wind. Some webs fail completely, as happened with Isildur. Others are able to resist the evil influences. They may falter for a time, but continue to strengthen and grow, as with Thranduil. He will grow now. He also has found renewed hope and the strength to heal. He knows that because of our blessing he and Minerella will one day meet in Valinor. We are pleased with her selfless devotion and her sacrifice to save her only child./

/So each of us has a web/ Mithrandir was enjoying this discussion. It was most enlightening.

/Yes, Olórin, all of us, even you. Did you think it was only by chance that you were where you were on your travels when Gwaihir happened to fly over you at that precise time? No, you were needed and a wizard is always where he should be and at precisely the time that he should be. We watch you, Child, and you please us./

Mithrandir felt as though he blushed right to the tips of his beard. Praise from the Valar was rare even for the Istari and a communication like this was virtually unheard of. He did not even think that the head of the White Council, Saruman, had been graced with such direct contact.

Mithrandir chuckled. /I like the comment about wizards. It also seems very true/

Irmo's voice sounded amused. /We are glad that you approve. You should know that Celeborn is on his way to Imladris, although he has become embroiled in some trouble, as have his grandsons. Galadriel has been shown the web, but she is too troubled to truly understand what she has been seeing. The time may be right for you to reveal to Galadriel and Elrond that you hold the Third Elven Ring of Power./

/You know/

Amusement was evident again in Irmo's tone. /Of course we know. It was at our insistence that you were given Narya, the Ring of Fire, by Cirdan the Shipwright. You will have need of it./

/I will speak with them, or at least with Celeborn, before he leaves Imladris./

/You should travel with them. Treachery can come from within as well as without. You will be needed in Fornost, Olórin. Saruman need not be informed of your current journey. It suits us for him not to know at this time./

Mithrandir found himself wondering at that little nugget of information. There was much to ponder there.

/It is time for you to awaken. You draw near your destination. Mark this well, the ancient evil in the cave has been reawakened. It has been set free at evil's command. Stay clear of the area for now. If you must go there, do not bring Legolas anywhere near the entrance. Evil lurks for him./

A bright glow filled his eyes as the dream faded.

"Gandalf?" A voice brought him back into the bright sunlight. "Gandalf, Are you awake? We are nearing the point where Thranduil's party should be."

"Thank you, Gwaihir. Have you sighted them at all?" Mithrandir shook himself as he sat straight on Gwaihir's back. He would have time to consider Irmo's words later, once all the injured were safely back at Imladris and he was at Legolas' side once more. He had heard the warnings and he would heed them.

"Not yet Gandalf. Thoronneth will scout for them. We will find them quickly." Even as Gwaihir spoke, Thoronneth swooped away, with the light of Anor gleaming on his wings with such majesty that it robbed him of words for a moment.

He came back less then ten minutes later. "They are below us on the mountain. They have not yet broken camp. The campfire still burns brightly."

"That is good news." In no time at all, the three Eagles were circling lazily in a slow descent towards the ground and the group encamped beneath them.

(Back to the Eagles' departure the night before…)

Bremoline watched as the great Eagles rose into the air with their precious cargo. It felt wrong to remain behind, to see his King and friend fly away and not be with him. He was sworn to protect his King and had rarely been away from that duty for any length of time

"Come, Bremoline, we should be getting on our way as well." Haldir spoke quietly to him.

"I know. Can you carry Calandor with you? Lathron, Glorfindel can travel with you. I will take Gailarphen. Before we break camp, Haldir, can you check Gwaloth to see if she is fit to travel? I really do not wish to leave her behind without protection. If anything further were to happen to that little mare Legolas would be devastated." Bremoline looked around at the rapidly disbanding camp.

"Of course." Haldir hurried over to where the mare now stood. Tinugwath still hovered protectively near her, as he had since the Eagles' perceived threat earlier. "I just need to look at your leg, Gwaloth."

The mare swished her tail and snorted her permission although Thranduil's large grey stallion did not relax his stance at all.

Haldir had to smile. There was something going on here as well. If these two did not mate soon, he would be surprised. He ran his hand down across the bandaged leg, testing the muscles and using his Elven perception to check that Gwaloth could bear her weight without too much distress. Satisfied that all was well, he straightened and gently patted her hindquarters before something more caught his attention.

"Bremoline, may I speak with you?" He called across the clearing.

Bremoline hurried over, a worried frown on his face. "What is wrong? Is she alright?"

"Yes, but tell me what you think?" He gestured towards Gwaloth's hindquarters, a neutral look on his face.

Bremoline looked at him with unease before reaching out to gently touch Gwaloth. A look of wonder flashed across his face. "But she... how could this... when?"

"Mellon-nin, I should not need to tell you that after all your years. After all the time that I have known you?" There was an amused twinkle in his eyes.

"Not that! You know what I mean. When could they have... surely the grooms would have known they had mated?" Bremoline was wide-eyed, first with indignation and then with surprise.

"I know, but it does answer the question as to why Tinugwath has been so protective of her, even over-protective." Haldir sounded thoughtful as he recalled the events following the 'hag attack' as it was now being called by the Elves from all of the Realms.

Bremoline nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, that would certainly account for it. We will need to take it slowly so that she does not tire easily, her wound will slow her anyway. From the way the babe feels, it is very young. It may have happened at some time on the journey or since we have been camped here. We will need to keep a close eye on her. I am sure that Tinugwath will watch her closely as well." A nicker from Thranduil's mount as if in answer to his words made them both laugh.

Twenty minutes later they were on their way. The Eagles were specks circling high up in the sky and the sooner they were on the road and away from this place the happier everyone would be.

They had just cleared the copse surrounding the hillside where the cave was hidden and were heading to the roadway when an unexpected sound rose behind them. It was a loud, seemingly anger-laden rumble. No one needed any further prompting. They urged their mounts onward, glad to be away from the evil influence of the cave.

Bremoline carried Gailarphen, who still slept deeply under the herbs' influence. Haldir had Calandor propped against his chest. They were the last of the mixed Elven troop to canter onto the road. At that moment, from a cloudless sky, a massive flash of lightning and an enormous rumble of thunder crashed behind them in the area of the cave. It was so loud the ground seemed to move beneath them. The lightning struck the rocks that hung over the entrance of the cave with such fury that blasted rock and clouds of dirt rained down over a great area around the cave entrance. But that was nothing to the roar of utter rage that seemed to erupt from inside the cave.

Haldir and Bremoline exchanged shocked glances. They had turned their mounts to look back. A great swirling black cloud seemed to emerge from the dust and debris to rise high in the sky, almost as if it was reaching for the Great Eagles circling high above. It fell far short, if that was its goal.

They watched, amazed, until disturbed by a loud cry from up the road ahead of them. They turned quickly and what they saw had them almost crying with mirth.

Ruthwen was picking herself up from the ground. She looked highly annoyed. Her horse had thrown her into a large muddy puddle next to the road, the last of the floodwaters that remained from the rains that had previously plagued them. The other Elves were trying to hide their mirth as well. They failed miserably.

"This is not funny!" She turned to Bremoline and spoke with a cold tone. "You have done something to this wretched horse!" She poked the gelding, who in turn curled his lips, laid back his ears and tried to bite her.

"I can assure you, Ruthwen, that no one has done anything to your horse besides yourself and Imles."

"That is Lady Ruthwen to you!" She snapped back at him.

"Must I remind you of Aran Thranduil's orders that you are to be granted no titles on this journey? Now please mount so that we may be on our way, else you may be left behind." Bremoline was rapidly growing bored with Ruthwen. He would never actually leave anyone behind, but he had little patience to spare for her this night.

"You have no right to order me about! You are just a common..."

"I would not continue with that sentence were I you, Ruthwen." There was a cold warning note in Haldir's normally-placid voice.

"You have no right to tell me what to do!" Ruthwen was almost bright red with rage and she pushed the hair that had fallen free from her braids out of her eyes with a muddy hand that left a trail right across her forehead.

Bremoline would normally have found this to be very funny, but now he was just angry. She was holding them up. "Actually, Ruthwen, I can."

"You wait until Thran... what?" Bremoline's words had finally sunk in.

"Aran Thranduil left me in charge, and as such I have command over all you do. Thranduil…" He watched her eyes darken even more at the familiar use of their King's name. "…told me specifically that I have total control of this group when he is not present. You were clearly told this before, I believe. Now, we are losing time and I want to be well away from here before whatever is in that cave fights itself free. It is your choice to stay if you wish, but none of us will be staying with you."

Ruthwen glowered at him, seeming to consider his words. She then gave a snort and tried to snatch hold of her mount's mane to pull herself onto his back. Bremoline watched as she did so and was not surprised when the black gelding pulled out of her way, making sure that she could not mount. It seemed that they were not the only ones who did not like the irritating Elleth.

"Stop playing around, Ruthwen. We are losing time. We must get away from here to find a new camp for the night, before the predators come out. There may yet be Wargs in the area." Bremoline was decidedly annoyed with Ruthwen.

"It is not me. It is this idiot horse's fault!" Ruthwen was repeatedly trying to mount her horse, but he was having none of it. "You have done something to him, I know you have! I will not stand for this!" She was practically stamping her feet in her fury.

"No one has touched your horse apart from you. We do not have time for this." Bremoline called over one of the closest Mirkwood Guards. "Benn, please carry Ruthwen with you for now? We need to move."

Ruthwen stamped over to Benn and stood waiting for him to dismount to help her up. When nothing happened, she demanded. "I need help getting up. You should be used to helping your betters!"

"How long have you been riding, Ruthwen?" Bremoline asked, bored to tears with this little melodrama.

"But I have not been well. I was faint in the cave. I may fall off!" She batted her eyes, since outright demanding had not helped, perhaps using her womanly wiles would achieve the ends that she wanted.

"You have been riding long enough to compensate for that. Now, if I were you, I would mount and quickly." Bremoline turned away to talk with Haldir about the route ahead of them.

"But I am weakened by my injuries. I am only..."

"Going to be bound, gagged and thrown over Benn's horse like baggage if you do not move right now!" Bremoline was glowering now. His temper was fraying further by the minute.

"You would not dare! You wait until my Adar hears about this!" Ruthwen's face had paled and her eyes had gone wide, but were still shooting daggers at him.

"He would probably agree with every word I said, but it will be no problem. The next time he comes to dinner with Miriel and me, I will ask him. I am sure that he will not mind discussing it over some warmed wine." Bremoline raised one eyebrow in what looked to be permission.

"You know my Adar?" Ruthwen's eyes were slits now. She knew he was lying. Her parents would surely never socialise with one of such low standing.

"Yes, we have known each other since we were Elflings. You parents dine with us frequently." /Likely to get away from you and your bleating of marrying someone of higher status./ He continued silently.

"But... but they have never said." Ruthwen's eyes were wide again.

"Why should they? They are your parents, not your siblings, nor do they need your approval. Now mount or we leave you. Randis do you have a length of rope?" He looked over at the scout waiting nearby.

"Yes, sir, I have." Randis reached for his pack, not bothering to hide his amusement.

"You may ride with me, Ruthwen. I do not mind." Imles had finally spoken up. She extended a hand to assist Ruthwen.

"Hannon-le, Imles. I would much prefer that to traveling with these ruffians." She hurried over to her friend, kicking out at her own mount as she passed, but missing him by a large margin. He did nothing more than kick back, striking her in the leg and none too gently. Her cry of pain was not missed by any of them. They all thought it was rather poetic justice, considering the way she had treated the gelding on this journey. It was very rare that a horse turned against its Elven rider. They normally had a long and deep bond of friendship.

Nothing was said as Imles helped her to mount. Even before she was settled, Bremoline gave the signal to move.

It was a great relief for him when they were under way once again. He hoped they could get in a couple of hours' ride before it was necessary to stop for the night. The further they were from that cursed cave, the better he would feel. He was relieved that Legolas' wounded mare, Gwaloth, seemed to be able to keep pace with the other riderless horses, though he was careful not to push the pace any faster than she could maintain.

None were nearby to witness that the rocks that now filled the mouth of the cave moved. They moved methodically as well, as if something tried to push its way out.

The hour and a half that they traveled passed without another incident. Wolves could be heard howling in the far distance. An owl hooted now and then, but nothing more than that. The sky had also returned to normal, the stars and thin crescent moon gently guiding their way.

Ruthwen's black gelding had moved to the front of the group and trotted contentedly beside Bremoline and Haldir. He had his head up and it almost appeared that he was proud and pleased with what he had achieved. It was evident that Ruthwen would never be able to ride him again. She would have to buy and train another horse before they left Imladris. That is, if she would be continuing with them.

Bremoline had to hide the chill that crawled up his spine at just the thought of Ruthwen 'teaching' Legolas. If he had his way, he would never let her alone with the Prince... ever.

They took shelter for the night in a small copse of trees shielded from predators on two sides by rocky steep cliffs. They soon had the camp set up and ate a small meal of lembas bread before bedding down for the night. Guards were set and changed at frequent intervals so that they could all rest. Captain Bremoline was rather worried that Glorfindel and Gailarphen had not wakened, but then, they must have been exhausted with all that had happened.

Bremoline settled down to sleep next to Calandor, determined to keep a close eye on his friend, now that he was free to do so. He had fallen asleep again at some point in their ride and still slept soundly. Even Haldir found rest this night, wrapped in his blanket not far from where Bremoline lay.

They were awake with the dawn and preparing the morning meal when Gailarphen awoke with a groan. He sat up and blinked around him blearily.

"Good morning, Gailarphen, here is some tea for you. The meal should be ready presently." Bremoline handed over a goblet of honeyed tea.

"Hannon le, Bremoline. May I ask where we are?" He felt confused, disoriented and slightly muddle-headed.

"Indeed, we had to move last evening after Mithrandir left with Thranduil, Legolas and Hir Elrond. Some great evil lingers in the cave. We tried to put as much distance between it and us as possible. How do you feel?"

"Rested." Was the succinct reply, accompanied by a glower. "Who drugged me?"

"That would have been Nestoron." Bremoline could not hide the snigger.

"It is not funny, Bremoline. I had injured to care for!" Gailarphen really was not happy with this and would certainly be speaking with his colleague when he saw him next.

"Gailarphen, you were exhausted and out on your feet. You could not have looked after an injured chick, let alone a grown Elf or two! Nestoron did what he thought was for the best and I happen to agree with him. You look a lot better than you did." Bremoline found himself admonishing the healer.

"I still would like to have been asked." Gailarphen was practically pouting, much to Bremoline's amusement

"Would you have agreed to take it?" Bremoline watched him while his mouth twitched from trying hard to keep from laughing aloud.

Gailarphen grimaced and rubbed at his temples, trying to relieve the ache of his head. "Probably not." Came the grudging reply.

"Then he certainly did the right thing. You could not have carried on as you were." Bremoline sat back with a sigh. This time of the morning, as the sun was coming up, happened to be his favourite part of the day. He had not had much opportunity to enjoy it lately.

"I am not so sure about that." Was Gailarphen's sour reply. "I need my pack. It was brought with us I hope?" He glowered at the Mirkwood Captain.

"Of course, no healer should be without his pack." Bremoline pushed it towards the healer.

Gailarphen was relieved to see the pack, intact and properly packed as he liked it. He had a thumping headache and needed some willow bark to help with the after-effects of the sleeping herbs he had been given. He added a good measure to his still-hot tea, and then drank it quickly. It was not until then that he looked around the campsite.

"How could you move Legolas without assistance? His condition is too fragile! He could have suffered a serious relapse!" He looked around for the Prince with some measure of panic. At least as much panic as a Healer would allow themselves after all of their training.

"Sîdh, Gailarphen. Legolas is not here and neither are Thranduil nor Hir Elrond. I did try to tell you." Bremoline was a little surprised at the response that he was getting.

"Not here?" Gailarphen looked at him, a little stunned.

"Yes, Mithrandir arrived not long after you fell asleep..."

"Mithrandir? But how? When?" Gailarphen could not help but ask. He apparently was still muddled from his drugged sleep.

"That is what I am trying to explain to you." There was a bit of sharpness to Bremoline's voice. He had, after all, had to deal with the two hags already this morning. Hot water to wash with indeed!

Bremoline's explanation cleared the cobwebs from his head a bit more and Gailarphen calmed with the realization. "I am sorry, please continue." He began to rub his forehead again, trying to rid the ache that way. The sleep may have done him some good, but it had left him with what felt like a real hangover.

"Mithrandir arrived last evening with three of the Great Eagles that live on the Misty Mountains. They flew Legolas, Thranduil and Hir Elrond back to Imladris for treatment. They will be returning to collect Calandor at some point. I had hoped that they would have returned by now." He gave a quick worried glance up at the western sky over the mountains.

"Captain, they are at it again." Randis sounded decidedly grumpy as he limped over to his friend.

"What now?" Bremoline growled. He was decidedly unamused by this unwelcome news.

"They expect us to fetch their morning meal for them. Imles even demanded that I brush down her horse." Randis tried to hide a wince, but his leg had stiffened a lot overnight and it pained him more than he wanted to admit.

Bremoline gave a sigh that sounded more like the growl of a Warg. "I will speak with them... again. You need to sit and rest that leg, Mellon-nin. I will sort your meal out for you." Bremoline smiled at his best scout, he really did look to be in some discomfort.

"What did you do to your leg? Has someone seen to it?" Gailarphen put his goblet down on the ground and, forgetting his own discomfort, made his way over to Randis.

"We were attacked by Wargs while gathering herbs. Nestoron and Doroniel saw to all the wounded before they left." Randis winced as he eased his leg out before him.

"Before they left?" It was only then that Gailarphen realised that the other two healers were nowhere in sight.

"Yes, it was decided that they should travel with the injured. Aran Thranduil had suffered another attack and Legolas... Legolas was very ill before he left." Randis' voice trailed off at the thought of his small Prince so ill. He shook his head. "If you will excuse me, I have two ellith to see to." Randis stood reluctantly and started to walk away.

"No, come back here and sit. Let me look at your leg. You say that others were injured? Once I have seen to you, I will check on them too. What have those two been up to since I was last awake?" He gestured with a nod of his head in the direction that Bremoline was walking too.

As he unwound the bandage from Randis' leg, the scout briefly explained what had happened with the two Ellith the night before.

"So they are up to their old tricks once more?" Gailarphen did not sound surprised.

"Aye, the minute that Thranduil left. Still, Captain Bremoline has his instructions on how to deal with them." Randis' sounded contented with the arrangements.

"I have no doubt that he can handle them and handle them well. How does your leg feel?" The wound looked red and sore. It had been a long and deep cut.

"Sore and stiff, but alright otherwise." Randis was honest.

"Good. You need to rest it, mind, so no rushing off to look for a non-existent Dragon." Gailarphen cleaned and then dressed the wound. He had meant his words as a gentle jest.

"He is not non-existent! If you had seen some of the damage that the demon has caused…" Randis' voice was unusually hard.

"Sîdh, mellon-nin. I know, but he has not been sighted this far west. Surely you can relax for a bit?" Gailarphen tied off the fresh bandage.

"It is my duty." Randis had a stubborn set to his jaw.

Gailarphen nodded with understanding. There was no arguing with a warrior's duty.

"I know, Mellon-nin, but we can all help in that duty."

"Hannon-le, that I would..."

A loud indignant screech from behind them cut the air. The whole camp turned almost as one toward the sound.

"How dare you! You have no right! I will not!" Ruthwen's indignant voice cut through the air and caused Gailarphen to wince as the noise made his head throb once more.

They all turned towards the Elleth. It was obvious, from her red face, just how furious she was.

Bremoline towered over her, his expression as black as thunder. "I have given you your orders and, since I am in charge of this contingent, you will either do as I say or go back to Mirkwood this morning. Aran Thranduil declared that you were to do as you were ordered, without fuss, or face the consequences. I was there, if you will remember, as were the others. I suggest that you grow up and get your own food, or starve!" He turned to the others and raised his voice so all the camp could hear clearly. "Not one of you will lift a finger to help either Ruthwen or Imles. Aran Thranduil has ordered that they must work on this journey, just like the rest of us. Is this understood?"

Nods and murmurs of agreement floated around the camp. Ruthwen gave a screech of sheer anger. "You will pay for this! Believe me you will live to regret the day that you made me your enemy!"

"Is that meant to scare me? I have faced baby spiders that caused more fear than you. Trust me, from you I have nothing to fear. We break camp in twenty minutes, with or without you. I suggest you eat before then. We will not stop before Anor is high in the sky!" Bremoline turned and stalked back to the fire, aware of the dark looks that were directed at his back, but not particularly worried by it.

Randis looked up at him with a crooked grin, speaking low so only the Captain could hear. "Scary baby spiders? Wait until I tell the others..."

In an equally low voice, Bremoline rejoined. "You tell them about scary baby spiders, Mellon-nin, and I will tell them about furry little kittens that bit a certain Ellon's feet, making him..."

"They do not need to know about the spiders. I liked that story though. Can I get you some tea while Gailarphen is seeing to the other injured?" Randis hurried to change the subject, aware they were being watched with curious eyes.

"Tea would be nice. I want to break camp soon though." Bremoline sat down with a sigh and then smiled when he saw Imles cross the camp with plates of food for her and Ruthwen.

They were just beginning to break camp a short time later when a small blanketed mound gave a twitch and then groaned.

Bremoline hurried over to check on the Elf. Perhaps he was finally waking as well? "Easy, Glorfindel, you have been sleeping..." He heard another groan as Bremoline realised that all was not well with the Balrog-Slayer.

continued in ch 10c…

Wow. Another long partial chapter! The last bit will come very soon. This chapter reached 117 pages long. That is why we have cut it in three parts and posted this part. Sorry it has taken so long.

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