DISCLAIMER- All characters recognised within this fanfiction belong the Tolkien Estate.
It was a peaceful day in Imladris. The late afternoon sun warmed the buildings, and a soft breeze gently rustled through the surrounding trees.
The Lord of Imladris, Elrond, was just sitting down with a glass of wine, when there was a knock on the door of the Library. With a sigh, he placed the glace down.
"Enter." He called. The door creaked open, an a young Elleth stepped inside with a curtsey.
"My Lord, there is a horse approaching quickly from the South. There are two riders."
Elrond grimaced, needing no more information.
"Thank you Lómónduil. Send for Erestor- and please see to it that the Healers are prepared. I have no doubt their services will be required."" he asked quickly leaving the room.
"Of course, My Lord!" The Elleth curtsied once more, before hurrying away.
Quickly, Elrond made his way down to the courtyard, intent on meeting the rider at the gate. He couldn't help but wonder as to who it was approaching. He had no doubt that it would be one of his Sons, or the son of Thranduil. It was not uncommon that they would find trouble when in each other's company- though each of them were fearless warriors, as a group, they seemed to be a magnet for the enemy. Elrond tried not to think of the last time they had all staggered through the gates, each of them close to death.
He reached the gates as they opened, just as the horse came into view.
As Erestor helped to lower the injured passenger off of the horse and on to a waiting litter, Elrond allowed himself to take in the blonde Prince, seemingly unscathed, as he gracefully dismounted.
"Legolas, what has happened?" he demanded as the young Elf approached, bowing his head in greeting.
"I am afraid I have very little information. Your Sons and I found her unconscious and injured in the road, just near the old oak bridge. Once they had tended to her wounds, I volunteered to bring her here while they remained to search for any clues as to who she is." The Prince sighed, watching as the litter vanished into the House of Healing. "Do you recognise her, My Lord?"
"No." Elrond answered, sounding troubled. "I do not recall ever laying eyes on her before." The Elf Lord paused before placing a hand on Legolas' shoulder. "Fear not- all shall be revealed in time." He smiles slightly.
"Aye- but something is troubling me, Lord Elrond. For an Elleth to be left to die on the road…"
"We will discuss what has happened once the others have arrived. For now, you should tend to your horse."
"Of course, My Lord." Legolas bowed his head once more, watching as the Imaldris Lord turned, quickly making his way into the House of Healing.
Legolas sighed as he walked towards the stables, leading his tired mare behind him. After a quick brush and ensuring she had enough food and water, he settled down to wait for the twins and Estel.
It wasn't long until they arrived, leading their tired horses into their stalls. Elladan nodded as he passed by, followed by Estel.
"Mellon nin how is she?" Estel called over as soon as he spotted his friend. Behind him, Elrohir entered last with not one, but two horses in tow.
"I have no word as of yet. But your Father is with her now. Where did you find this beauty?" He inquired as he stepped forward, gently patting the horse's neck. The grey beauty looked down at him, letting out a soft whinny.
"He was tied to a tree not far from where we found her. He did not seem too pleased about us approaching but a carrot was enough to win him over." Elrohir explained as he led the horse into a stall.
"He had a small pack strapped to his saddle, as well as a small-sword." Elladan continued.
"Not to mention these." Elrohir added, holding out a bow and a quiver of arrows. Legolas reached over, taking the bow in hand to examine it. It was well crafted, and clearly well loved- or well used, Legolas thought grimly as he handed them back.
"This was also nearby, hidden under a bush. We would have missed it, if it weren't for Elladan's sharp eyes." Estel stepped forward this time, holding out a cloth wrapped dagger for Legolas to see. It took only a small glance to make out the dark red stain on the cloth, transferred from the blade itself.
"You believe this is the weapon used against her?" Legolas asked, somberly, looking between the brothers.
"No, Legolas. The blade does not match her wounds." Elrohir replied, his voice quiet. "We believe she may have been using it in self defense. Though, there was no sign of the other party."
"I-"
Before Legolas could reply, a loud scream filled the air.
"Ai, Valar."