Disclaimers: I don't own any of the characters or settings from Lord of the Rings or Xena the Warrior Princess
XLVII: Aftermath of Actions
Imladris, 29 August 3018 TA
Elrond, his voice echoing with concern and authority, quickly made his way through the corridors of Rivendell to reach Legolas' chamber. The news of the incident had come as a shock to him. In his long years overseeing Rivendell, he had rarely, if ever, encountered such a breach of decorum and respect within his domain.
Upon entering Legolas' room, Elrond found a healer tending to the prince's injury. The wound, though not deep, was significant enough to require attention. Elves were known for their swift healing abilities, and Elrond was relieved to see that the injury would not have lasting consequences.
"Legolas," Elrond began, his tone a mixture of concern and inquiry, "Mae naethon i'mathad dan hyn, a ollatho ni radar?" (I have been informed that a guest was responsible for this. Can you tell me what happened?)
Legolas, sitting calmly as the healer finished his work, looked up at Elrond. He paused for a moment, considering how to explain the incident. "Maer, Herdir Elrond. Cenin Xena, i adan a thírathas lavad Gloin." (Yes, Lord Elrond. It was Xena, the human who arrived with Gloin's party,) he explained, his voice steady. "Naeth hi ennas gelin, a credo din bado dhanna na gant e naur." (It was an unexpected altercation, and I believe there may be more to her actions than meets the eye.)
Elrond listened intently, his expression thoughtful. The fact that Xena had caused the injury was surprising, especially considering her previous conduct in Rivendell. Elrond knew her to be a skilled warrior with a strong sense of honor, which made the attack all the more puzzling.
"Hantale, Legolas. Radamme din lastathon a veng na leithio ion Elrond. Govannen i lhaw Xena a gwennin na norn an lhad." (Thank you, Legolas. We must ensure the safety and peace of all within Rivendell. I will speak with Xena and seek to understand the root of this incident,) Elrond stated, his tone decisive. "Ceitho, a pherio i dhôl leithio." (Please rest and allow your wound to heal.)
As Elrond left the chamber, his mind was filled with questions about Xena's motivations and the circumstances leading to the confrontation. The tranquility of Rivendell had been disturbed, and it was his responsibility as its lord to restore harmony and understand the forces at play behind this unusual act of aggression.
Legolas, understanding that the incident would inevitably reach Lord Elrond through the guards, faced the Lord of Rivendell with a composed demeanor. He acknowledged the healer's efforts with gratitude and then addressed Elrond. "Herdir ni, naeth hi bain ú-ell." (My lord, it was but a misunderstanding,) he said, downplaying the incident. "Ni dhôl vinya, bain ú-adan." (The injury is minor, merely a scratch,) he added, attempting to present the situation as less severe than it might have appeared.
Elrond, wise to the ways of the world and the nuances of behavior, gave Legolas a knowing look, his eyebrows raised in mild amusement. "Lend gwannen i adan, Legolas, ach led dhedhen uial eni diheno." (You have grown into a fine elf, Legolas, but you cannot easily hide the truth from me,) he said with a light smirk. He moved to sit on a long sofa in the chamber and gestured for Legolas to join him.
As Legolas sat beside him, Elrond continued, his tone mixed with fondness and respect. "Gurth lin aduial aníra Thranduil o ellon velui. Mae i adarath, Elladan a Elrohir, tôladaid a melain in leithia – i athrad luinar a meldaithon. Gellir i adar an o thaew nethin a lhaw nîr estath, anannen i gellir si luiniol, evaduiad dim i athrad gwaeth. Mae i adar athrad ha dolen o nathol."
(Sometimes I find myself envying Thranduil for having a son like you. My sons, Elladan and Elrohir, are commendable in many ways – brave warriors and beloved children. Yet, they often lack the subtlety and wisdom you possess, even though they are older than you. You always seem to seek harmony, avoiding unnecessary conflict and drama. Your father has indeed taught you well.)
Elrond's words reflected his deep understanding of Legolas's character – his commitment to peace and his desire to prevent any disturbance within Rivendell. It was evident that Legolas's actions, even in the face of personal injury, were driven by a desire to maintain the serenity and dignity of Elrond's realm, qualities that Elrond admired and appreciated.
Legolas acknowledged the futility of attempting to conceal the truth from Elrond, whose wisdom and insight surpassed even those of his own father, Thranduil. He respected Elrond deeply, not only as the Lord of Rivendell but as a sage who often seemed to understand his actions better than he did himself.
"Leithia i dhôl ú-tanen, Herdir Elrond." (You give me too much credit, Lord Elrond,) Legolas responded humbly. "Mae i naur bain vinya: naeth hi bain ú-adan, a na chrevin leithio din dhîn velethiel. Tolo si dhîn lhawediel an idhrann. Mîn naurath annen lavad din dhîn." (The truth is simpler: the incident was minor, and I do not wish to burden you with such trivial matters. You already shoulder many responsibilities. Small issues like this, I can manage on my own.) Yet, despite his words, Legolas felt a twinge of confusion. The attack by Xena, a guest in Elrond's house, was unexpected and puzzling, especially considering her status as a mortal.
Elrond, however, viewed the situation with a sense of gravity. "Annas i lavad vinya, a i melden velin in nín, na chemostat vi Legolas. Manenno Thranduil, mae a leithas i adarhad o enyd menin dhîn? Ni dolo si dhîn lhawediel na lammenno annen. Manenno gellir i lûth a luiniol lavad dhannatha."
(An assault on a guest, and a friend of our house, cannot be overlooked, Legolas. What would Thranduil say if he knew his son had been injured under my roof? We cannot let this pass without addressing it. There must be some form of reprimand and a thorough discussion with the one responsible.)
Legolas couldn't help but smirk at the thought of his father's reaction. "Ni adar lennathen lhawed vi dhannen am deithen chakram." (My father would likely chide me for not evading a mere chakram,) he said with a touch of humor. He had always felt safe in Rivendell, which perhaps led to his lowered guard. "Lavannen i dhôl o Herdir Imladris, a i cholad vi dhannen. Ach ni gellir i dhedhen lavad vi Xena. Na gellir vi lithiel lavad dhannatha." (I understand your position as Lord of Imladris, and the need to address this. But I implore you, to let the conversation with Xena suffice. There is no need for further punishment.)
Legolas's request reflected his desire to maintain peace and his willingness to let go of personal grievances for the greater good. He understood the delicate balance of relationships and diplomacy that Elrond had to manage and sought to alleviate any additional strain on the Lord of Rivendell. His words were those of a prince who valued harmony and understanding, qualities that were deeply ingrained in the culture of Rivendell.
Elrond, acknowledging Legolas' perspective, stood up and gently tapped Legolas on his uninjured shoulder in a fatherly manner. "Ceitho, gellir i dhedhen lavad nôr hain a dhôl,"(Rest assured, any punishment will be just and fair,) Elrond said, his tone reflecting his commitment to equitable treatment within the bounds of Rivendell.
As he began to leave the chamber, Elrond paused, turning back with a look of inquisitiveness. "Ceitho, gellir i dhedhen lavad nôr hain a dhôl." (I am curious, Legolas. What prompted our guest's actions against you?) he asked, seeking to understand the root of the incident.
Legolas found himself momentarily at a loss for a definitive answer. The intensity of Xena's attack had seemed earnest, and he suspected that if Gimli had not intervened, she might have pressed her assault further. Yet, he chose to offer a lighter explanation to Elrond. "Ni dovannen na lhatho vi dhannen. Gellir si bain uanuithol a falen, am bael amrûn venin."(I simply refused to spar with her. She can be quite headstrong and impetuous, like a spoiled child at times,) he said, managing to conceal a grin behind his words.
Elrond raised an eyebrow slightly, a hint of amusement in his expression. "Ah, guren hen. Mae i dhannen vi gwaethol nethin. Mae naethon ni os veng; lastas si nîr hiliol in nîn." (Ah, I see. Then perhaps she shares part of the blame. It seems I was mistaken; you still possess a hint of mischief within you.)
Legolas responded with a warm, genuine smile, and the tension of the situation momentarily lifted. "Mae, annen idhrannin in nîn os veng. Ni dhôl, am naethon ú-ellan Mirkwood." (Indeed, that side of me has always been there. I am, after all, an elf of Mirkwood.) His response was light-hearted, a reminder of the youthful spirit and playful nature that often characterized the elves of his homeland.
Their exchange, though brief, shed light on the complexities of the situation, suggesting that there might be deeper layers to Xena's actions than mere recklessness or hostility. Elrond left the room with a thoughtful look, pondering the intricate dynamics at play and the best way to address them, always striving to uphold the harmony and integrity of Rivendell.
Xena, escorted by the guards, entered Lord Elrond's chamber with a mixture of reluctance and introspection. Her mumbling ceased as she met Elrond's gaze, a look that seemed to diffuse her lingering anger and bring her to a moment of self-awareness. She realized the childishness of her recent actions and lowered her gaze in a rare display of humility.
"Please, take a seat, Lady Xena," Elrond invited, gesturing towards a chair. His voice was calm yet carried an undercurrent of seriousness. "I have been informed of an unfortunate incident on the training fields today. It appears that one of our guests has injured another. Can you tell me about it?"
Xena, now sitting, looked up at Elrond, her face reflecting a blend of defiance and embarrassment. She struggled to find a way to explain her actions. Admitting her unprovoked attack on Legolas was one thing, but trying to rationalize it seemed almost impossible, especially since she herself didn't fully understand her motives.
"Lord Elrond, it was a mistake," she began, her voice hesitant. "I... acted impulsively, and I regret it."
Elrond's gaze became more intense, yet not unkind. "Look at me, child," he said firmly. "I will not press you for the reasons behind your actions. The Dwarves of Durin's Folk, with whom you have traveled, are known for their pride and honor. I expect no less from you, as they have accepted you into their company. Prince Legolas has chosen not to pursue the matter further, but an apology is in order. And there will be consequences for your actions."
Xena met Elrond's wise and discerning eyes, feeling a mix of respect and frustration. The thought of apologizing to Legolas, whom she referred to internally as the 'shiny tree-hugging bastard,' was distasteful to her, yet she understood the necessity of it. At the mention of punishment, her head tilted inquisitively. "Punishment?" she echoed, her tone a blend of surprise and curiosity, wondering what form it would take in the peaceful and just realm of Rivendell.
Elrond's question hung in the air, reflecting his serious concern about the incident. He observed Xena closely, sensing there was more to the situation than a mere lapse in judgment. After a moment of contemplation, Xena opened up about the events that had transpired between her and Legolas, including the mention of a curse by an alchemist.
Elrond listened attentively, his expression turning thoughtful at the mention of the curse. "A curse by an alchemist," he repeated quietly, his gaze fixed on Xena. "Such curses are often flawed. An alchemist is not a true wizard, and their creations can be unpredictable, sometimes developing a will of their own over time. It would be wise to investigate the nature of this curse further, to understand its effects and origins."
Xena nodded, absorbing Elrond's insights. The Lord of Rivendell continued, "While I may not have all the answers, we are aware that Sauron's influence has been known to warp curses and affect individuals. The shadow is spreading, and its effects are far-reaching. This curse, whose origins you need to uncover, may have been influenced or altered by this growing darkness."
Xena, now more introspective, considered the possibility that the curse might be at the root of her uncharacteristic behavior. "Can such a curse be undone?" she asked, the realization dawning on her that her actions might have been influenced by forces beyond her control.
Elrond regarded her with a blend of empathy and resolve. "If we can understand the nature of the curse and its source, there may be a way to counteract it. But first, we must gather more information. Rest assured, Xena, we will explore every avenue to resolve this matter."
Elrond's words offered a glimmer of hope, suggesting that the strange and sudden change in Xena's behavior might be reversible. With this new perspective, the path forward seemed to involve delving deeper into the history and details of the curse, a journey that would require both patience and diligence.
Elrond weighed his words carefully before responding to Xena's concerns. "The full extent of the curse's effects and whether it can be undone is something we cannot ascertain at the moment. We must await the arrival of Mithrandir, Gandalf, for more definitive answers," he explained. His tone was serious yet hopeful, suggesting that Gandalf's wisdom and knowledge might shed more light on this perplexing situation.
Xena, though nodding in understanding, appeared lost in thought. "From what I observed, the curse seemed to return to Legolas. I didn't feel any effects myself," she remarked, trying to piece together the events.
Elrond considered her words thoughtfully. "What you witnessed may not have been the curse itself, but a related phenomenon. Since you were the one who broke the original curse, it's possible that you were affected from the outset, albeit in a way that was not immediately apparent. You mentioned spending time with Legolas afterward. Did you notice anything unusual during that period?"
"We did spend time together," Xena replied. "Legolas sensed something amiss, which led us to believe he might still be under the influence of the curse. But as for myself, I felt perfectly normal."
Elrond nodded, absorbing this information. "It's possible that the curse's influence on you was subtle, almost imperceptible at first. Now, decades later, it could be manifesting more overtly, revealing its true nature."
Xena's expression turned to one of worry. "So, you're saying it could get worse?"
"It's likely, or even inevitable," Elrond acknowledged. "Remember, it took centuries for the full impact of the curse to become evident when it affected the Elvenqueen."
Xena, still processing this revelation, asked, "Is there nothing we can do in the meantime?"
"We must first understand the curse's nature and origins. Once Gandalf arrives, we can devise a more informed approach. Until then, I advise caution and mindfulness of your actions, especially around Legolas," Elrond counseled.
His advice struck a balance between caution and hope, suggesting that while immediate action might be limited, the path to understanding and potentially countering the curse lay ahead. Xena's journey had taken an unexpected turn, intertwining her fate with that of Legolas and the deeper mysteries of Middle-earth.
Elrond, recognizing the gravity of the situation, gave Xena counsel aimed at minimizing any potential harm. "Until Gandalf arrives with more insight, it would be wise to keep your distance from Legolas," he advised.
Xena nodded in agreement, a faint smile crossing her face. "That won't be a problem for me. He would do well to steer clear of me too," she remarked, her tone carrying a mix of seriousness and dry humor.
Elrond considered this, his expression turning slightly contemplative. "The matter is indeed serious, and it would be prudent to inform Prince Legolas as well. However..." He trailed off, aware of the potential implications. Legolas, upon learning that the curse might have affected Xena instead of himself, might feel compelled to embark on a perilous quest to reverse it.
Xena seemed to share this concern. "Maybe it's better if we don't tell him just yet," she suggested. "Knowing him, he'd only become more troublesome if he knew the curse had impacted me instead."
Elrond, wise and perceptive, understood the nuances of their relationship and the potential risks of revealing too much too soon. "For the time being, let's keep this information between us," he agreed. "However, your immediate task is to offer an apology to Prince Legolas. I can accompany you if you'd like. It's important that the apology is sincere. Starting tomorrow, you will be assigned to work with Camaeneth. She will be informed of your duties, and for the next two weeks, she will guide you in fulfilling your responsibilities." Elrond's tone was firm, indicating the seriousness of Xena's penance for her actions.
Xena, comprehending the necessity of an apology, agreed to offer one to Legolas, recognizing that it was the appropriate course of action. However, she was taken aback by the nature of the punishment Elrond had in mind. "My duties?" she echoed, a hint of surprise in her voice. "You're truly going to punish me?"
Elrond responded with a measured tone, "While I believe your actions were not entirely within your control, it remains that Prince Legolas was harmed, and as such, I cannot overlook the breach of our peace. A modest punishment is necessary to uphold the principles of our house."
Xena, understanding the position Elrond was in, accepted the decision with a slight bow. She had anticipated a more severe reprimand, perhaps confinement. "I was expecting something more severe, maybe a few days in your dungeons," she admitted. "Assisting the chambermaid seems... less daunting."
Elrond's response was gentle yet firm. "In Rivendell, we do not resort to imprisoning our guests. Our approach to discipline is designed to be instructive rather than harsh. It's about understanding and rectifying the mistake, not just enduring a penalty."
Xena recognized the wisdom in Elrond's approach. A stint in a cell would have been a minor inconvenience for her, hardly a lesson learned. But being tasked with assisting Camaeneth in her duties was a different matter altogether – a challenge that would test her patience and perhaps offer a new perspective.
"And if one of your tasks involves laundry, I trust the garments will be properly rinsed this time," Elrond added with a hint of lightness in his voice, subtly reminding her of the incident with Legolas' tunic.
Xena couldn't help but offer a small, resigned smile at his comment. She knew that the next two weeks would be a unique experience, one that might teach her more than she expected.
Xena offered a light nod to Lord Elrond, acknowledging her understanding of the situation and her intent to seek out Prince Legolas for the necessary apology. With a sense of resolve, she exited Elrond's chamber, musing on how quickly word of such incidents spread in Rivendell.
As she made her way through the elegant corridors, she unexpectedly encountered Arwen. "Lady Arwen!" Xena exclaimed, slightly startled by the sudden appearance of Elrond's daughter.
Arwen greeted Xena with a warm, knowing smile. She had grown accustomed to the various escapades and minor upheavals that often punctuated life in Rivendell, especially those involving her brothers and Legolas. "How are you? Are you in any trouble?" Arwen asked, her tone laced with gentle curiosity.
Xena, feeling a bit sheepish, averted her gaze momentarily. "I... may have overreacted a bit on the training grounds earlier. I need to apologize to Prince Legolas for my actions," she confessed, initially referring to Legolas in a less formal manner before quickly correcting herself.
Arwen's smile broadened at Xena's candidness. She found Xena's presence and the minor disruption she had caused somewhat refreshing amid the growing shadows of their time. "Legolas is currently in the library with my brothers. They're probably giving him a hard time about the incident. I can take you there," Arwen offered kindly.
As they walked towards the library, Xena remained quiet, gathering her thoughts and preparing herself for the apology. She was determined to keep her emotions in check this time, curious to see if her previous outburst was indeed a result of the curse or just a momentary lapse. The thought of apologizing to Legolas was not an easy one, but she was resolved to do what was necessary and move past the incident.
In the tranquil ambiance of the library, the playful ribbing among the elves created a light-hearted atmosphere, despite the recent incident on the training grounds.
Elrohir, standing to Legolas' right, teased him with a blend of affection and mockery. "Legolas, lastannen am uial a tôl. Ach lavas si an nedh vi dhannen enni!" (Legolas, you are often so astute and strong. Yet it seems you were caught off-guard this time!) His words were lighthearted and meant more to jest than to judge.
Elladan, joining in from Legolas' left side, added with a chuckle, "Mae, meldir. Naeth hi lavad in nen. Lavad na lammiath pedith?" (Indeed, brother. It was quite a surprise. Did you not see the attack coming?)
Legolas, leaning casually against a nearby desk, let out an exasperated sigh, his eyes rolling slightly in response to his friends' teasing. "Pedith o velui leithia?" (Are you going to continue with this for long?) he asked, though a faint smile hinted at his good-natured tolerance of their banter.
Arwen, entering the scene with Xena in tow, brought a graceful end to the teasing. "My brothers could indeed keep this up for ages," she said with a smile, her tone implying both amusement at their antics and sympathy for Legolas.
Xena's entry into the library, following closely behind Arwen, marked a significant moment. The room itself, lined with meticulously arranged books and adorned with natural elements, reflected the harmony and wisdom of Rivendell. Xena, taking in the serene surroundings, felt a stark contrast between the peaceful atmosphere of the library and the turmoil within her.
As she approached Legolas and Arwen's brothers, she could sense their light-hearted jesting towards Legolas. The banter, though playful, was a reminder of the incident she was there to address. Xena's gaze briefly swept over the room, taking in the beauty and order of the library before focusing on Legolas.
She noticed the prince, surrounded by Elladan and Elrohir, who seemed to be enjoying their gentle ribbing of him. Legolas, leaning casually against a desk, appeared both amused and slightly exasperated by his friends' teasing.
Xena's eyes then settled on Legolas, and she felt a rush of mixed emotions. She clenched her fingers into a fist, a gesture of her effort to maintain composure and control the anger that had earlier overwhelmed her. Her narrowed gaze on Legolas was a sign of her internal struggle, but she was determined to follow through with her intention to apologize.
Stepping forward, she prepared to address Legolas. The words she needed to say were clear in her mind, yet the act of voicing them was a challenge. She knew that this apology was necessary, not just for Legolas, but also for herself, to begin to understand and reconcile the complex emotions and events that had led to this moment.
Xena's entrance into the library was marked by an immediate, unsettling shift in her emotions. As her eyes met Legolas', a wave of rage inexplicably washed over her. It was as if an invisible force was clouding her thoughts, driving her to aggression—a manifestation of the curse's sinister influence.
Elladan, ever the enthusiast for a bit of drama, couldn't help but express his excitement at the unfolding scene. "This is getting even better!" he exclaimed, his voice tinged with a mix of amusement and anticipation.
Elrohir, with a more direct approach, addressed Xena, albeit slightly misremembering her name. "Xenawy, wasn't it, milady? How are you feeling?" he inquired, his tone a blend of curiosity and politeness.
"Xena," she corrected sharply, her gaze locking onto Legolas. An instinctive reach for her weapon followed a reflex she couldn't control, but she quickly realized she was unarmed, her weapons safely locked away in her room. Internally, she struggled to regain control, silently urging herself to calm down, to resist the curse's overpowering urge to strike out.
Legolas, observing her actions with a mixture of confusion and caution, tilted his head slightly, his expression one of guarded curiosity. He noticed her hand's involuntary movement and braced himself, uncertain of what to expect. His arms crossed over his chest, and he fixed a dark, expectant gaze on Xena, awaiting the apology that had brought her here.
The twins watched with heightened interest, almost as if they were spectators at an unpredictable performance. Arwen, too, could not conceal her intrigue, her eyes reflecting a mix of concern and curiosity about the tense interaction before her. The room was filled with a palpable sense of anticipation, as everyone awaited Xena's next move under the heavy shadow of the curse's unseen influence.
Xena's attempt to apologize was visibly strained, her demeanor conflicted and her voice barely more than a whisper carried away by the breeze. The task of offering a sincere apology to Legolas, especially under the shadow of the curse's influence, was proving more challenging than she had anticipated. Her face betrayed her discomfort, resembling someone forced to confront a deeply unpleasant task.
Legolas, observing her struggle, felt a mix of irritation and confusion. His initial intention to not escalate the situation was being tested by Xena's apparent reluctance and the strained nature of her apology. "About what?" he asked, a hint of challenge in his tone. "That didn't sound like an apology to me," he added, his voice firm, the calm demeanor he had maintained now giving way to visible frustration.
Xena internally berated herself, knowing that her approach was faltering. Despite her natural aversion to apologizing, she recognized the importance of acknowledging her mistake. "I was wrong in my actions earlier. I'm sorry," she stated again, her tone more forceful, yet still tinged with a noticeable edge.
Legolas, perceiving the tension in her voice, responded with a glare. "I don't sense any sincerity in your words," he retorted, his frustration evident. His hand nearly struck the desk in a gesture of exasperation. He was puzzled by Xena's hostility; they had parted on amicable terms, and this sudden animosity seemed inexplicable. He wondered why her anger was affecting him so deeply, why this discord between them seemed to resonate with such intensity.
The tension in the library escalated as Xena's struggle with the curse became increasingly evident. Her attempt to reconcile with Legolas was undermined by the curse's influence, leading her to a provocative and defiant stance.
"My deepest apologies, Prince Legolas of the Woodland Realm, son of Thranduil," Xena declared, her tone laced with sarcasm. The mocking nature of her words was not lost on the onlookers, especially the twins and Arwen, who watched the unfolding drama with a mix of amusement and curiosity. It was a rare spectacle in the usually serene halls of Rivendell.
"I am truly sorry that my attack did not succeed," she continued, her voice dripping with irony as she closed the distance between herself and Legolas. "Next time, I will not miss!"
The words that escaped her lips were not truly her own. She could feel the curse's grip on her emotions, pushing her towards hostility and aggression. The distinction between her genuine feelings and the curse's influence was blurring, making it difficult for her to maintain control.
Legolas, sensing the malice in her words, rose to his feet, his usual composure shattered by the threat. His eyes bore into Xena's with an intensity that matched her own. Reaching out, he grasped her arm firmly, his voice laced with anger and challenge. "I would like to see you try," he retorted, his tone sharp and confrontational.
The room, once filled with light-hearted banter, now resonated with the serious and dangerous energy of a brewing conflict. The curse's influence was palpable, driving a wedge between two individuals who, under normal circumstances, might have resolved their differences with far less animosity.
Xena's interaction with Legolas in the library of Rivendell revealed the complex layers of emotions and the influence of the curse that clouded their relationship. The pride and aloof demeanor typical of Mirkwood Elves, which she expected from Legolas, seemed to have softened during his time in Rivendell. His gentler, kinder side was a stark contrast to the cold indifference she remembered.
Despite her internal struggle, Xena didn't shy away from confrontation. She boldly grasped Legolas' injured arm, applying pressure as a show of defiance. "I can assure you, when the time is right, I will," she hissed, her words laced with a promise of future conflict.
Legolas winced as Xena's grip aggravated his wound. His gaze hardened as he considered her actions and their underlying motivations. He was not one to let anger dictate his actions, but he also wasn't one to forget a threat. Releasing his grip, he took a step back, distancing himself from the immediate tension.
"Apology accepted," he stated abruptly, a decision that seemed to catch everyone off guard. With a composed demeanor, he wrapped an arm around Arwen, and together they departed from the scene, leaving behind a mixture of surprise and relief.
Xena, left to process the sudden shift in Legolas' response, felt a moment of envy for his ability to master his emotions and walk away from the conflict. She recognized the need to harness similar control over her own feelings, especially given the curse's growing influence. The realization that the curse was more potent than she initially thought weighed heavily on her, a challenge that she knew would require all her strength and resolve to overcome.
The atmosphere lightened considerably as Legolas and Arwen strolled away from the tense scene in the library. Arwen, with her usual grace and insight, gently addressed the momentary darkness that had passed over Legolas. "Am an vell, naethon ni u-dolen vi nîn." (For a brief time, I was genuinely concerned,) she confessed. Her familiarity with Legolas's moods and capabilities allowed her to sense the undercurrents of his anger.
Legolas allowed himself a small, somewhat rueful smile. "I nîr anwaraitho nethin i athrad bael venin, Arwen," (The trivial squabbles of children are far beneath me now, Arwen,) he replied, signaling a maturity and restraint that had perhaps been less evident in his younger years.
Arwen, with a playful smirk, lightly teased him. "Nîr Elladan a Elrohir ni fennath a dhedhen lhawediel vi dhîn, le, lastannen vi dhîn. Mae naethon i lhawediel e ngwedh vi dhîn."(Elladan and Elrohir will never let you live this down, you know. They were expecting more of a spectacle from you.)
Legolas's laughter, light and unburdened, rang out as he playfully jabbed back. "Ach mae, naethon di lasto vi nîn, le, Arwen? Anannen doth a men vi i athradath. Nîr lastas i lhawediel i lhaw vi nîn e ledannen vi nîn." (And yet, you've already forgiven me, haven't you, Arwen? Despite your noble status, you share more than a little in common with your brothers. I recall quite a few times when your subtlety outmaneuvered us all.)
Arwen feigned a dignified shock. "Ni? Lhosto vi i athrad bael nethin? Ni dhôl i ambar hain, Legolas. I amrûn a i hên vi dhîn pedith i dôlma." (Me? Engage in such frivolous antics? I am far above that, Legolas. My age and position demand a certain decorum.)
Legolas playfully challenged her. "Manenno na gwest vi nîn, ach na bain athradostad dhîn o benig din. Galad vi nîn dhîn Aragorn o tôl. Gellir vi dhîn i annin o vi im." (Perhaps not openly, but you've never shied away from stirring the pot when it suited you. I'll have to share this with Aragorn when he arrives. Have you had any news of him lately?)
Their banter continued a comfortable and familiar exchange between old friends, a respite from the worries and shadows that seemed to grow ever more present in Middle-earth.
Arwen's expression was thoughtful as she considered Legolas's words. "Mae i ambar hain aduiad vi dhîn," na-choeth si, hanar dhannen lhavol vi llethiel." (It's true that these times are darkening," she mused, her voice carrying a tinge of concern. "Ithryn i aurë ammenden, hain lacha i minnad, mae carned sí inyr amel annan." (And today's incident, as trivial as it may seem, might be a symptom of the unrest brewing around us.)
Legolas nodded in agreement. "Menel e dhúath vi nîn, am i vêlth vi nîn i adan nethin." (It's unsettling, to say the least. As for our human friend, her animosity seems quite peculiar.)
Arwen raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in her voice. "Vêlth, menel, ach ni gellir vi na bregath vi gwaedh. Cîr vi nîn lavad din lhad an dhûr." (Animosity, perhaps, but I wouldn't jump to conclusions about hatred. Dislike can often be mistaken for deeper enmity.)
Legolas looked thoughtful, his gaze lingering in the direction of the library. "Pedith menel naeth hi am dîn ambar, bain ú-nethin o garad o athradostad." (Maybe it was just a momentary lapse, a product of stress or misunderstanding.)
Arwen laughed softly, her eyes twinkling with mirth. "Na, Legolas, maeth i adar Mirkwood naethon di ú-felith a dîn. Menel vi dhîn pedith i lhawediel vi nîn." (Well, Legolas, even the Prince of Mirkwood can't expect to be adored by everyone. You might have just found your first real detractor.)
Legolas, despite the light-hearted nature of their conversation, couldn't shake off a nagging feeling that there was more to the situation than met the eye. The growing darkness of Middle-earth seemed to cast long shadows even over the smallest of disputes, and he wondered if the strange aggression from Xena was somehow connected to the larger forces at play. The thought lingered in his mind, a puzzle yet to be solved in the midst of these tumultuous times.
((Upcoming Chapter Forty-Eight))
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