Disclaimers: I don't own any of the characters or settings from Lord of the Rings or Xena the Warrior Princess

Author's Note:

This is a LegoRomance (slow-burn)

ActVI

The Shadows

Chapter 62: The Team Assembles

Imladris, September 21th 3018 T.A

Xena stood in the middle of her chamber, her excitement bubbling beneath the surface as she prepared for yet another adventure. The room was bathed in the soft, warm glow of the afternoon sun filtering through the delicate curtains. She could feel the familiar sense of anticipation building within her, not unlike the moments before a battle when her focus sharpened and her blood pulsed with purpose. Today, it was the thrill of the hunt—not for a foe, but for something just as vital to her: a new sword.

Míresgaliel, ever patient and attentive, was fluttering about the room like a graceful, determined bird. The elf maiden moved with an effortless grace as she helped Xena select the right attire for the journey ahead. Xena had specifically requested leggings and tunics—practical clothing suited for riding and the unpredictability of the road. Míresgaliel, with her keen eye for detail, had finally found some that fit Xena's frame perfectly.

"Here," Míresgaliel said, her voice soft and melodic as she handed over a pair of finely crafted leggings made from a supple material. "These will allow you full movement, yet are strong enough to endure any terrain."

Xena took the leggings, feeling the fabric between her fingers. The material was different from what she was used to—lighter, yet undeniably strong. It felt like it had been woven with care, each thread imbued with the craftsmanship only the Elves could achieve. She slipped into them, relishing how the fabric moved with her, not constricting but providing a sense of protection.

"Not bad," Xena muttered, glancing at herself in the mirror, turning slightly to check the fit. The black leggings clung to her muscular frame, accentuating the years of battle and training that had shaped her into the warrior she was.

Míresgaliel handed her a tunic next, a deep forest green one embroidered with subtle silver patterns along the cuffs and neckline. "It should keep you warm without burdening you," Míresgaliel commented as she helped Xena pull it over her head.

The tunic, like the leggings, fit perfectly—tailored just enough to complement her frame while leaving her the freedom to fight, run, and ride. It was long enough to cover her hips but short enough not to hinder her movements, with slits on the sides for ease. The green fabric shimmered faintly in the light, giving Xena an air of elegance that clashed wonderfully with the rugged practicality of her appearance.

Xena smirked as she turned to face Míresgaliel, "I think I'm starting to get used to this elven style. Not bad at all."

Míresgaliel gave her a small, approving smile, but her eyes sparkled with a hint of amusement. "You look more like one of our warriors than a human." She reached for a belt, a simple yet finely crafted piece of leather with silver accents, and handed it to Xena. "This will secure everything in place. And you mustn't forget your boots."

Xena nodded, taking the belt and fastening it around her waist. The familiarity of it grounded her amidst the excitement of the journey to come. She strapped on her weapons, fastening them securely to her belt. She sat down on a small stool as Míresgaliel brought over her well-worn boots, the same boots she had ridden in through countless battles. They had seen better days, but there was something about the comfort and familiarity that made Xena hesitant to part with them.

"These boots have served me well," Xena remarked, lacing them up. "But I might need something sturdier soon."

"I have no doubt they've carried you far," Míresgaliel said, her voice laced with a subtle fondness. "But you'll know when the time comes to find new ones."

Xena stood once more, stretching her arms above her head and twisting slightly at the waist to test the range of motion in her new attire. It was perfect—light, flexible, and strong, just like her.

"Legolas should be pleased," Míresgaliel said quietly as she stepped back, eyeing Xena's outfit with approval. "You're ready."

The mention of Legolas made Xena pause for a moment. She wasn't thinking about him, not in the way she had the night before. This quest—this journey—was about her. About finding something that felt right in her hands again, a sword that could become an extension of herself. But there was no denying that this adventure, however small, was another thread binding her to the elf prince.

"I'm not doing this for him," Xena replied, though the tone in her voice softened as she adjusted the bracers on her forearms. "I need a new sword. It's as simple as that."

Míresgaliel only smiled, a knowing smile that said she understood far more than she let on. "Of course," she said, stepping aside to allow Xena a final look in the mirror. "But remember, sometimes, the people we journey with are just as important as the destination."

Xena exhaled softly, glancing at her reflection one last time. The warrior staring back at her was ready—ready for the road, for the challenges ahead, for the unexpected twists of fate. She was armored not just in elven-made garments but in purpose.

With a final nod of approval to Míresgaliel, she grabbed her cloak from the back of a nearby chair, threw it over her shoulders, and fastened it at the front. "Time to find that sword," she said with a determined smirk, heading for the door.

Míresgaliel, standing by with an air of satisfaction, watched her go. "May the stars guide your path, Lady Xena," she whispered softly as the warrior disappeared into the hall, her footsteps already echoing with the promise of a new adventure.

Legolas' preparations for the journey were swift and precise, his movements deliberate and without hesitation. His well-worn travel attire of brown, green, and grey had been donned with ease, each piece familiar to him, a second skin for the countless days and nights spent in the wilds. His long, silver-golden hair was tied back in braids, and his weapons—his bow and twin knives—were fastened securely. The thought of riding out was a welcome one, the need for movement, for distraction, had grown unbearable. The stables had been informed, and Chubbie, along with his own horse, were already saddled and ready.

But the journey itself was not the easy part. It was the decision to take it—and the reactions it would provoke—that weighed on him now.

Elros, ever the voice of reason and caution, was the first to object. "This is madness," he declared, standing in front of Legolas with an incredulous expression. "To take a sudden journey to the western slopes of the Misty Mountains, to find a sword that has been lost for centuries? It makes no sense. We remain here because Lord Elrond has asked us to, because there are greater matters at hand. The council—"

"The council is not for another month," Legolas interrupted, his voice firm but not unkind. "And I have already fulfilled my obligations here as prince of Mirkwood. What I do now is my choice. I do not need to wait idly for decisions that are yet to be made."

Elros' brows furrowed, frustration mounting. "And what of this sword? What does it matter? You are not the one seeking it; Xena is. Why this sudden need to leave Rivendell? We are safe here. You should be preparing for what lies ahead, not chasing after some mythical blade."

Legolas' eyes narrowed slightly, his expression unreadable. The truth was, the sword was just an excuse, a distraction from the turmoil within him, the storm of emotions he was trying so desperately to quell. The fires, the leap, the intense connection he had felt with Xena the night before—it had unsettled him in ways he was not ready to confront. He needed to leave, to ride out, to clear his mind and find the peace that always eluded him in Rivendell's sheltered halls.

"I do not expect you to understand," Legolas said quietly. "But I must go. This is not about the sword alone—it is about... finding something I have lost."

Thalion and Mírdan exchanged glances, standing on the outskirts of the conversation, unsure of where they fit into the argument. They, too, were torn. The idea of riding out once more, of embarking on another journey with Legolas and Xena, was tempting. Their last trip from Mirkwood to Rivendell had been unforgettable, filled with danger, camaraderie, and the unknown. But they also knew Elros was right in his concern. There were important matters to attend to here, and the timing of this quest seemed... ill-advised.

Still, Thalion's eyes gleamed with curiosity, and Mírdan had a half-smile playing on his lips, as if he were already imagining the adventures to come.

"You should listen to reason, Legolas," Elros insisted, his voice rising slightly as the tension between them grew. "We cannot simply leave Rivendell without explanation, especially not on some whim."

Legolas' gaze hardened, the prince in him rising to the surface. "I am not asking for your permission, Elros," he said, his tone cool. "I am informing you of my decision. You are free to remain here if you wish, but I will go. My mind is made up."

Elros stared at him for a long moment, his jaw clenched in frustration. He opened his mouth to argue further but then closed it, realizing that no words would sway Legolas from this course. The prince was as stubborn as his father, and when his mind was set, there was little point in trying to change it.

"Very well," Elros said, at last, his voice tight. "But do not expect me to clean up the mess when things go awry."

Legolas did not respond to the barb, only nodding slightly in acknowledgment. The argument, for now, was over.

Thalion and Mírdan, sensing the tension ease slightly, stepped forward, trying to gauge their prince's mood. They had not interfered in the argument, knowing Legolas well enough to understand when it was best to stay silent. But they had been listening closely, and though they had not been asked to join, there was a glimmer of hope that they might accompany him on this new adventure.

"Seems like you've made up your mind," Thalion said lightly, a small grin forming. "Do you think you'll manage without us, or should we come along to keep things interesting?"

Mírdan chuckled softly, his eyes bright with amusement. "It's not like we've had much excitement since arriving in Rivendell. A good ride might be just what we need."

Legolas glanced at them, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. He appreciated their offer, their loyalty, but this time, the journey was different. More personal. He hadn't asked them to come for a reason. He needed this time alone—or at least, with Xena. It wasn't about adventure; it was about finding a way to balance the storm within him.

"I thank you," Legolas said, his tone softer now. "But this time, I will ride with just Xena."

Thalion and Mírdan exchanged another glance, their smiles fading slightly in disappointment, but they understood. Legolas had never been one to make decisions lightly, and if he felt this was something he needed to do on his own, they would respect that.

"Then ride well, my friend," Mírdan said with a nod. "We'll hold down the fort here in your absence."

Legolas offered them a grateful look before turning back to Elros. "We will not be gone long," he promised. "Just a few days. I will return before the council."

With that, Legolas took his leave, stepping out of the room with a resolve that seemed almost unshakable. The path ahead was uncertain, but he knew one thing for sure: he needed this. He needed to ride out, to find clarity, and to rediscover the peace that had eluded him for so long.

Facing Elrond had not weighed on Legolas as heavily as confronting Elros, but the Lord of Rivendell was a figure of wisdom and authority. A sudden decision to ride out on a quest to find a sword in the Hidden Forge of Eregion was bound to raise questions. Elrond's surprise was subtle but present when Legolas approached him in the gardens to inform him of his intent. However, it was not entirely unexpected—Elrond had seen this coming when the prince had sought information about the Forge just a day prior.

Legolas had been meticulous in his inquiries, seeking not just information about the lost sword but about the legendary Hidden Forge itself. The Forge of Eregion, where many great weapons were crafted, was steeped in history, forgotten by most and hidden in the shadow of time. It was a place tied to Celebrimbor and the Noldor, abandoned after Sauron's treachery, and Elrond knew the perils that lay in searching for it. Many had tried to find the Forge over the ages, only to fail or fall to dangers that even the wisest among the elves had forgotten.

When Legolas had sought Elrond's counsel, the Lord of Rivendell had provided what he could—maps, lore, and safe passages south of Rivendell, through the western slopes of the Misty Mountains. But he had also issued a warning. This was not just a physical journey; it was a path that led through ancient ruins, places where Sauron's influence had once been strong. The orcs were not the true danger, Elrond had implied, but the remnants of power and malice that lingered in such places, sleeping but never fully gone.

Now, standing before him, already dressed for the road and briefing him on his decision to leave with Xena and without his company, Legolas braced himself for any objections. But Lord Elrond did not forbid the journey. Instead, his sharp eyes reflected a mix of caution and curiosity. He chose his words carefully.

"This quest you undertake, Legolas," Elrond began, his voice calm but weighted with wisdom, "it is not a trivial one. The Hidden Forge holds many secrets, and not all of them are meant to be uncovered. The path is dangerous, not just for the orcs and servants of Sauron, but for those who seek power or answers that should remain buried."

Legolas listened quietly, nodding slightly. He was not pursuing the sword for power, but for Xena's need and, if he admitted to himself, to escape the turmoil of the past days. Still, Elrond's warning hung heavy in the air.

"Have you considered taking Elladan and Elrohir with you?" Elrond suggested, as his gaze held steady on Legolas. "They have long desired an adventure that takes them beyond these halls, and their skills will prove valuable. This is no small journey, even if it is driven by personal motives."

Legolas had indeed thought of Elladan and Elrohir, but he was torn. This quest felt deeply personal, a distraction from the weight of his nightmares, the confusion of his emotions regarding Xena. It wasn't a mission to save Middle-earth or battle the rising darkness—it was a selfish desire to find solace in motion, to outrun the inner storm that plagued him.

"I have thought of it," Legolas admitted. "But this journey… it is not the kind we often undertake. It is not for the fate of the world or the defeat of Sauron. It is a search for a sword, a journey into forgotten lands for something that might not even exist anymore. I would not burden them with it."

Elrond smiled faintly, the lines of his ageless face softening. "Sometimes, the most personal journeys are the ones that shape us the most. And they are often the ones we should not take alone. My sons would not see it as a burden, but as an opportunity to stand by you. As they always have."

Legolas knew the truth of Elrond's words. Elladan and Elrohir were more than capable, and they would likely leap at the chance for another adventure, no matter the stakes. Still, this was a quest different from the battles they had fought together. It felt more intimate, more tangled with his own struggles. And yet, maybe that was why he should bring them.

"I will speak to them," Legolas agreed after a pause. "But if they choose not to ride, Xena and I will go alone. We will not delay."

Elrond nodded, his expression thoughtful but understanding. "You are wise to trust in your own path, Legolas. But be wary of what you seek. The past has a way of revealing truths we are not always ready to face."

Legolas bowed his head in respect, appreciating the wisdom and care Elrond offered without outright opposition. As he turned to leave, Elrond's voice followed him, quiet but firm.

"Remember, Legolas. Some things are meant to remain hidden. Do not let curiosity lead you into danger."

Legolas paused only for a moment before continuing his stride, the weight of Elrond's words settling over him like a veil. He understood the risks, but he also knew that standing still was no longer an option. The journey ahead, whether with or without the twins, was necessary—for Xena's quest, yes, but also for his own troubled soul.

As he made his way back through the gardens, his mind wandered to Xena. She would be preparing by now, eager for the road, her excitement undoubtedly infectious. He couldn't help but feel a small spark of relief at the thought of riding out with her again. This journey, as unpredictable as it might be, was exactly what they both needed.

Xena stood by Chubbie, her trusted horse, running her fingers along the mare's mane as she secured her belongings to the saddle. It had been a few days since she'd seen her companion, and she was quietly talking to her, a habit she'd picked up during the long years of her solitary journeys. Her words were soft, almost soothing, but she couldn't help but notice that there were more horses than expected. Not just Legolas' mount but two others, fully packed and ready to ride.

She tilted her head, eyeing the unfamiliar horses, when her curiosity was answered by the sound of approaching footsteps and low voices. Turning, she saw Legolas walking down the path toward the stables, deep in conversation with Elladan and Elrohir. The three elves moved with their characteristic grace, their presence commanding attention without a word. They were clearly preparing for the journey, their expressions filled with excitement and anticipation.

It was clear now that the twins had decided to join them. Legolas must have found them soon after his meeting with Elrond, and Xena could guess how the conversation went—Elladan and Elrohir rarely passed up the chance for adventure, especially when their long-time companion was involved.

As the trio reached her, Elladan flashed a grin. "It seems you won't be getting rid of us so easily, Xena. We've decided to grace you with our company."

Elrohir, equally amused, added, "When Legolas mentioned the journey, we couldn't resist. It's been too long since we've had a good ride, and finding a sword hidden in a forgotten forge? That sounds like the kind of quest we were made for."

Xena smirked, giving them a sideways glance. "I see. So, the prince couldn't go on this little adventure without his entourage?"

Legolas, standing a bit behind the twins, shook his head with a small smile. "They invited themselves, as expected. I had little say in the matter."

Elladan clapped Legolas on the shoulder. "Come now, Legolas. You're secretly pleased we're here. Imagine how dull the road would be without us."

Elrohir chuckled. "We wouldn't want you and Xena to get too... focused on the task ahead. Someone has to make sure there's a bit of fun along the way."

Xena raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on her lips. "Fun, huh? I thought we were looking for a sword, not throwing a party."

Elrohir smiled at her. "Who says we can't do both?"

The playful banter brought a lightness to the group, an ease that came with familiarity and shared history. Though Xena hadn't known the twins as long as she had Legolas, she'd spent enough time in Rivendell to know they were invaluable companions—skilled, clever, and always quick to make even the darkest journey feel brighter.

Legolas, meanwhile, stood quietly for a moment, watching as the horses were being prepared. His mind was still wrestling with the conversation he'd had with Elrond and the unsettling emotions he'd been trying to suppress. But here, surrounded by his friends, there was a strange sense of calm—a feeling that, for now at least, things might be alright.

After a moment of silence, Xena's curiosity got the better of her. "So, what happened to Arwen? Didn't she want to come along?"

Legolas shook his head. "She considered it, but something held her back. She said there's a reason she must stay behind, something about a feeling she's had for days. A vision, perhaps."

Xena frowned, not liking the sound of that. "A vision?"

"She didn't say much," Legolas admitted. "But she often rides alone near the borders of Rivendell when she feels something stirring. It's how she clears her mind. She seemed certain she would be needed here."

The twins exchanged a glance, both knowing their sister's intuition was rarely wrong. Still, they said nothing, content to trust in Arwen's decision.

As they finished preparing the horses, Elladan swung himself into the saddle of his steed, looking down at the rest of the group. "Well then, are we ready? Or are we going to linger here all day?"

Elrohir followed suit, mounting his own horse with a grin. "South it is then. The Hidden Forge of Eregion awaits."

Legolas moved to his horse, casting a glance at Xena before climbing up. "We'll follow the safe paths first, but beyond Rivendell, the terrain can be treacherous. We'll need to be careful. Orcs aren't our only concern."

Xena nodded, adjusting her gear as she mounted Chubbie. The excitement of the journey was finally beginning to settle in her chest. It had been too long since she'd felt the thrill of riding out toward something unknown, something dangerous. And though she hadn't expected the twins to join, she didn't mind their presence. She found their humor a good distraction from her more somber thoughts.

With one last glance at each other, the group set off, the horses' hooves echoing on the stone as they rode through the gates of Rivendell and out into the wild. The Hidden Forge awaited them, but none of them could have guessed what else the journey would bring.

As they rode, Xena found herself glancing toward Legolas now and then, wondering what thoughts troubled him beneath the surface. She knew well enough by now that his mind was rarely at ease, and though she didn't pry, she hoped the journey would help him find some peace—if only for a little while.

((Upcoming Chapter Sixty-Three))

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