Chapter One
The forest in this part of Mirkwood was dark, even the trees around about seemed to give off an air of eerie darkness. Instead of being the tall brown and greens that was the normal hue for trees, these were black. Completely and utterly black; from the withered twisted roots to the blackened split bark. If one were to be foolish enough to take the time to stop and look, you would see that even the leaves that hung from the twisted and tortured boughs and limbs were black, a deeper black than even the trees themselves; if that were at all possible. Silence was all that could be heard, no birds only the very distant chattering of squirrels somewhere in the distance.
The sun shone brightly through the trees, where it could. It only seemed to make the forest seem even gloomier. Amongst the trees were the remains of old torn and tattered webbing. This was the only signs so far of the giant predators that inhabited the forest. But then looks can be deceiving, just because a creature cannot be seen it does not mean that they are not there - waiting out of sight for any unfortunate stray animal that walked into their traps.
Black squirrels chattered from the tops of the trees, sounding angry to all who could hear. Other animals, also black scurried around the forest, adding to the surreal feeling that permeated the air.
The peace was shattered by the sudden sounds of hoof beats. Once more all sound ceased as the sounds drew nearer. From out of the trees came a white horse. It was large and very beautiful. It carried no bridle or tack, the passenger it carried had no need of them.
If the horse was beautiful, it paled into insignificance next to its rider. He was in fact nothing less than perfection. Tall and lean he carried himself with an air of quiet majesty. Long blond hair fell in a shimmering cascade down his back. The hair was drawn back at the sides and plaited before joining into one long braid that sat on top of the loose hair.
The face itself was nothing less than truly a picture of perfection, porcelain white and completely flawless it was completed by eyes that were of the deepest sapphire blue.
At present his beauty was marred slightly due to the deep, troubled frown that he wore. “Noro lim, Cúbeth. I want to be on the other side of Mirkwood by this evening.”
Cúbeth gave a neigh to show her agreement to that. It caused her rider to give a laugh. It sounded as if soft, tinkling bells had just rung aloud in the still air. They continued on their way, although for once the rider’s attention was not fully on the forest around him. He knew the trees would warn him of any nearby danger and Cúbeth was trained to acknowledge it too. That was without his Elven senses, and while they were warning him that the forest around him was not totally safe, his internal warning system was not yet sounding.
No, instead his mind was on the ‘conversation’ he had had with his father just the day before. It had not been pleasant, not pleasant at all. His father was initially pleased with the invitation that he had received from Imladris. But in the weeks that had preceded his receiving it, the darkness that surrounded his home had deepened.
He himself had been injured three weeks previously, when his patrol had been attacked by Orcs. That was what had caused the most hurt, when his father said that he thought only of himself and nothing for the realm. How his own father could say that to him was beyond him, especially as he had spent the better part of four months out with two different patrols.
The last patrol had ended with him arguing with his father in the Healing Halls. Luckily the Head Healer, Robitol had stepped into stop the rapidly escalating ‘discussion’ that was brewing between father and son, both of whom had legendary tempers. He, a very old friend of his father’s, had tried to ease the growing atmosphere in the healing wing. Robitol had pointed out that he had been out on patrol for twice the normal length of time and that he was more than deserving of a break from the hardships that always came from being out on patrol.
While he had been speaking, the healer had been treating the patrols wounds. Luckily they all seemed to have been minor. At least that was how it seemed, until he reached Legolas, who at this point was still deep within his discussion with his father, the King. Legolas could not hide the hiss that left his lips as the bloodied temporary bandage was removed from his arm. It had taken his attention away from his father and so he missed his father’s face paling rather dramatically.
The wound was deep and very, very long. The cut itself was vertical and had sliced through down into the muscle. Even as Thranduil watched, unable to take his eyes away, it still bled freely. How his son had been able to move his arm the King did not know. It had to hurt and hurt a lot.
Robitol muttered under his breath and uttered a few choice words at the prince about what exactly a ‘minor’ injury entailed and what did not, before preparing an herb tea. He offered the tea to Legolas with a raised eyebrow that the blond had seen many times before and was a perfect imitation of the one that the Lord of Imladris could produce.
Legolas could only smile ruefully; it was obvious that he had no choice in the matter. He took the tea.
It had taken forty-two external stitches to close the wound that was without the internal ones that had been used to close the muscle. Legolas thank the Valar that blade had not been poisoned as was usually the case with Orc scimitars.
When he had regained consciousness it was to find his father sitting beside his pallet deep in thought. It had taken very little persuasion for the King to remove his son from duty, but also to allow him to visit his friend’s.
The wound on his arm had healed quickly thanks to his Elven healing ability and Legolas had to admit that it was a relief to sleep on a comfortable mattress rather than the hard ground. It had also been nice to spend some time with his father. For almost two weeks peace had reigned. Then it began.
Suddenly the attacks on the patrols and outlying villages had increased. The Orc attacks seemed to be more select, almost as if they had a plan and were working to it. Usually when they attacked they liked to take prisoners. The evil beasts hated all Elven kind, loathed them because they had once been like them. There was only one way for an Elf to become like an Orc and that was through relentless, unending torture. Why then had they taken to killing, nay slaughtering, all the Elves that they had come into contact with? There had been several attacks per day over the last week and the patrols were spread over Mirkwood were thinner than ever.
Then, as they were beginning to get used to this new style of attack, the spiders changed their tactics. Instead of attacking smaller parties and stragglers they began to attack larger groups. Even the spiders themselves seemed to be larger, their poison and stings more difficult to treat. They had lost several Elves in those first initial days. Ai, even their webbing seemed to be stronger, it was much thicker and could only be cut with either sword or the elegant knifes that the prince himself favored.
Legolas sighed at the thought of those last two weeks. It had been harder than he had ever thought possible to watch as his friends and patrol mates left, knowing full well that they were riding into danger not knowing if they would return alive and well. He had tried to convince both his father and Robitol that he was recovered enough to join them - but to no avail.
His father’s temper, never easy to cope with normally had been very unpredictable. Anything and everything would set it to boiling point. Usually Legolas could defuse it and bring Thranduil back into a better frame of mind and sweeter temper. But not at the moment, for the minute it seemed as if his presence in the chamber was enough to begin the slow boil. Legolas hated it when they argued. It was a rarity, but when they did it was wise to stay away from either of them.
Their arguing over that last week had reached such a proportion that Legolas had begun to withdraw from his father. He would only see and speak with Thranduil when he absolutely had to. The morning meal he ate in the food preparation chamber either well before or long after his father had eaten. He would conveniently be too busy to eat either the noon or evening meal. The one that he did eat or was forced to take would be taken on the run so that he would not have to sit with his father.
Robitol had given him several seemingly interminable lectures on eating a good, balanced diet of three meals a day, lectures that he conveniently forgot. His father had never once mentioned his behavior.
That had all changed four days ago. Those last four days numbered amongst some of the worst in the young Elven Prince’s long life. It had also taken his relationship with his father to an all time low, something he would never have thought possible.
There had been an attack on two patrols. The spiders and the Orcs had seemingly joined forces. Their attacks seemed to be even more meticulously planned. They knew what they were after and how to achieve their goal. Once more Legolas had begged to be allowed to re-join a patrol. As their Captain it was his right, again his father had refused. This state of affairs had carried on until yesterday. He had again asked to be released to a patrol, once again this was refused. He then mentioned traveling to Rivendell.
It had been a little like watching Mount Doom erupting, or at least how he envisaged Mount Doom to look as it erupted. The argument had been long and loud; Legolas had walked out when his father had insulted first Lord Elrond, something that had surprised Legolas as they were old friends. Then he had carried on saying some rather nasty and nasty things about Estel and his heritage. Legolas had tried to defend his friends only for Thranduil to turn on him. It was then that Thranduil had said the words that Legolas would never be able to forget. Forgive yes with the passage of time - forget? Definitely not, he hurt just thinking about the fact that his father could think that of him.
He had left the palace long before dawn had even broken a note for his father on his pillow. It explained why he was leaving and how he really believed that some space between them would be best, with things they way that they currently were they would say things that both would regret and be unable to retract. Possibly he should have arranged for some guards to travel with him, he could hear his father saying just that very thing, but in the end he had just wanted to leave and begin the long journey ahead of him.
And so here he was riding through one of the darkest parts of Mirkwood; fleeing like an Elfling who had just runaway from home, which in a sense he was, running away from home that is. At least it was not raining, that really would have been the icing on the cake!
He gave another disconsolate sigh. It was at times like this he missed his mother all the more. She would have known how to deal with his father. It did not matter how ever many millennia had passed since her death he still felt the black hole that her loss had created within him.
He shook himself; he needed to be more aware of this part of the mighty forest. Continuing to brood would only get him self killed.
Legolas checked the suns progress in the sky, it was now mid afternoon. He urged Cúbeth on; he really wanted to be away from this part of the forest before darkness fell.
As they traveled the trees around them became darker and more like skeletons. More webbing was in evidence and it made the hackles on the back of his neck raise. How he hated what his home had become. One day they would beat the Necromancer at his own game and beat the darkness back.
Suddenly Cúbeth became very skittish, stopping and pawing the ground in alarm. She had not needed to warn him, he could sense the evil as it drew near to him. He drew his bow in one swift move and had an arrow knocked. The noise came again. He dismounted and senses alert he moved towards the area the sound had come from.
There was nothing there, no sound nor sight of what had caused the noise. Puzzled he pulled himself up from the half crouch that he had subconsciously fallen into. He was not aware of the figure moving swiftly behind him, he had just a small warning from Cúbeth and by then it was too late. As he swung around to face what ever it was that was behind him, he felt the heavy blow that hit him on the side of his head.
He saw stars before darkness descended...
Chapter two
It was the sun shining into his eyes that woke him. For one long minute he was really not sure where he was. The sky was dotted with fluffy white clouds. By the suns position he could tell that it was almost midday.
Why on Arda had he slept so late?
Blinking his eyes to clear them further, Legolas looked around him. The camp had been set up just as he always had it. It was set in a little copse of trees - green this time although he could see the dark hulking skeletons that littered the darker side of his beloved forest. Against one side was solid rock. This was exactly how he liked it, to have at least one side safe from attack where ever and when ever he could.
Cúbeth grazed to one side of the burnt out fire, calm and obviously at ease. His pack was sat to one side with his bow, quiver and knives within easy reach. All was just as it should be - why was he feeling so uneasy?
He pushed himself up onto his elbows ostensibly to look further around the camp, when he was assailed by dizziness. This was foreign to him, he rarely became dizzy. He shook his head, trying to clear it, thankfully it worked. He needed to be on his way.
He also needed to know who had set up the camp as he really could not remember doing it. If he thought back all he could remember was riding but nothing else. Strange, surely he could remember setting up camp?
He stood and once more the dizziness made itself known, but this time it cleared quickly. He needed to be on his way. It was the work of minutes to clear the camp and pack Cúbeth up. He made sure that the fire really was dead and could not cause any damage to this oasis in the sea of darkness.
Soon they were on their way; even as he was riding he was puzzling over the mystery of the camp. It mystified him that he could not remember setting up his camp; could he have been that tired after only two days of riding? He brushed a frustrated hand through his hair, touching a very tender spot that he had not been aware of. This only puzzled him more; he could not remember having knocked his head. Surely he would remember that?
The next few days passed without any real problems. He came across a few of the large spiders that inhabited the forest, but they were easily dispatched. He also came across a few stray Orcs; they too did not last for long.
But then on the third day, things began to change. He had just left the forest and should have been free from the spiders when a large colony that had built its webs near to the edge of the forest caught his smell. They attacked and he managed to take out the first three that came close with his bow, but soon they were too near for him to use it any more. He changed to his twin knives, their Mithril blades shining brightly. He also sent Cúbeth away from the danger that they both faced.
He was quickly surrounded; he had never seen such a large colony. There was no way he could fight his way out of this. He regretted leaving now without saying goodbye to his father. He also regretted that the last time they had spoken was with anger.
It was too late for regrets though and he readied himself for the attack. There was a loud clicking from behind the spiders. They parted to make way for another even larger spider. It was rubbing its mandibles and it sent shivers down his spine to see the saliva that ran from the mouths of the other spiders. There was more clicking from what seemed to be the matriarch and if Legolas was to be asked later, he would swear that the spider sniffed him.
It certainly smelt the air. What ever it did, Legolas was not expecting what happened next. The spiders backed off. They were taking orders from the matriarch. It pleased him somewhat that he had been right about the new height of intelligence. But why had they backed off? He would have made an ideal meal for them, not that he wanted that. He could only watch amazed as the assailants made their way back to their nests.
Finally only the matriarch was left and she looked at him. Actually looked at him and clicked her mandibles once more before turning and swiftly disappearing through the forest, leaving behind a very troubled Prince.
He did not stand around for long, the bodies of the spiders would attract carrion quickly and it would be best to leave before the Wolves or Wargs descended.
He whistled for Cúbeth , hoping that she had run to safety. Her answering neigh was music to his ears and soon Cúbeth appeared through the trees. She nuzzled him fondly as he checked her over for injuries. She was alright and with a quick reassurance they were once more on their way.
The fourth day he woke up to driving rain and they hurried on their way, the usual pristine Elf left soaking and miserable by the rain. Then the thunder started and Legolas had to find them some shelter for the night. He was fully aware that they could not carry on during this weather. Luckily he found a small cave, just big enough to shelter them for the night. It even had some dry tinder to make a fire with. Something that Legolas was more than grateful for, it meant that he could dry his clothes and be in some sort of semblance of normality when he arrived at Imladris.
The weather had blown itself out by the time Legolas was ready to leave the next morning. He had had two bouts of the mysterious dizziness, one that had brought him to his knees. He could think of no explanation for it, apart from the just as mysterious bump that was still in evidence on his head. Luckily the bump was healing more each day.
They made good time that day, the weather aiding them for once. They were soon making their way across the Misty Mountains. They had seen evidence of Orcs but had not come across them for which Legolas was thankful.
At this rate, if they could continue it, they would make Imladris within the week. It would be good to spend some time with his friends without having to worry about what he was doing, without his father breathing down his neck.
He loved his father dearly; he was his only family after all. Legolas’ mother had been killed when he was an Elfling by Orcs. It was something that he could never forget; he had been present and made to watch as his mother was tortured to death. If it had not been for the arrival of Elladan and Elrohir, he would have suffered the same fate. It was a debt that he could never repay and they had become firm friends during that visit.
That was also why his father could be a little over protective. He was Thranduil’s only child. How different it would have been had his mother survived that attack and carried her unborn child to term. He would not have been an only child and his father may have been a little easier on him.
Legolas sighed. What ifs did nothing, they would change nothing. It had not happened and he was here, trying to get away from his father for a while. He would have to face the music when he got back, but that was in the future. The next few months would be carefree, hunting with the twins and Estel; talking with Elrond and Glorfindel about the worrying spread of darkness around Middle Earth, and Mirkwood in particular. He wanted to speak with Elrond about the new species of Spider that was sweeping the forest.
He stopped to rest Cúbeth around the middle of the day and took that time to eat some of the last of the fresh fruit in his pack. He usually liked apples, but this time he took one look at it and realized there was no way he would be able to eat it. He returned it to his pack and took out some Lembas bread. This also looked completely unappetizing and before he knew it he was hunched over a bush loosing the little contents that his stomach carried.
It was a very puzzled Elf that cleaned himself up. Elves never got sick and he could count the few times he had vomited on one hand. He hated it, hated the shaky feeling that it left behind. The last time had been during the after effects of a spider bite, thank the Heaven’s that they always carried anti-venom with them.
But this time he had not been bitten by a spider. This time he had no reason for being sick that he could think of. It was just one more worry for him to puzzle over.
The weather held after that and they managed to gain some time back. It was an uncomfortable ride for the Elven Prince. After the initial bout of nausea and vomiting, it had increased and he was now vomiting frequently. Not that he had eaten. Just the thought of eating made him gag, and the dizziness. The attacks were more frequent as well.
By the time Imladris came into view he was tired and sore; tired because he was no longer sleeping as he should. He never needed a lot of sleep, that was the way with Elves. But now he was getting very little. His abdomen was sore from the frequent retching and he was badly in need of a bath.
Legolas could already hear his friend’s taunts. It was well known that Legolas prided himself with his appearance, but at present it looked as if he had been pulled through a hedge backwards and right now there was nothing that he could do about it.
He was greeted by the watch Elf and he knew that news of his arrival would reach the Last Homely House ahead of him. He was right with that assumption because as the main house came into sight Lord Elrond and his sons were waiting for him.
Estel hurried to meet the Elf and he swung down from Cúbeth’s back to greet him on foot. The minute his foot reached the ground he realized that he had made a mistake by getting off so early. The dizziness hit him, only Cúbeth stopped him from falling to his knees, he would give her the apple as thanks later.
“Legolas, mellon-nin it is so good to see you. We were unsure that you would be able to come!” Estel was grinning ear to ear and Legolas could only smile back as soon as the dizziness had stopped. Luckily Estel had not noticed the attack.
“Estel, I was not sure that Ada would let me. How are you? You are looking well.” Legolas greeted the human with fondness.
“Legolas, welcome and come in, you look as if a rest would do you a lot of good. I have a letter for you that arrived this morning by bird.” Elrond was smiling at the Elf he thought of as a son.
Legolas grimaced, he had a very good idea who the letter was from and what it contained. “Mae Govannon, Hir Elrond. It is good to see you all again. Thank you, I am sure that Ada will have some advice for me. May I use a bird to reply?”
Legolas straightened up and the others got their first good look at the Prince. They were shocked at the change in their friend. Legolas was pale, the only color he had was the black rings that surrounded his sunken eyes. The weight loss was marked.
Elrond could feel the worry building up inside of him. Legolas had always been thin and no amount of food seemed to build him up, but this huge weight loss could not be healthy. The usual clean, smart Elf was rumpled and looked in need of a good bath.
“Come, Legolas I am sure that you need a good rest. You are in your usual chambers.” Legolas had stayed often and long enough for him to have his own chambers; no one else had the use of them. “I will have some hot water brought to you so that you can bathe. Are you injured at all?” Elrond’s healer’s senses were raised as he took in just how pale Legolas was.
“Thank you, Elrond. I am unhurt, just weary after the journey. A bath would be much appreciated.” Elrond had led them into the house, a stable hand having taken care of Cúbeth .
The house was just as he had remembered it with a calmness that was missing in his own home. There was also the faint lingering smell of Athelas and it seemed to lift his spirits.
“What have you been up to? You look as if you have been pulled backwards by an Orc!” Elladan could not help but joke. He had never seen the Prince in this condition before. His clothes looked fit to go out with the rubbish, so torn and rumpled did they look.
“No Orc, just a spider or two.” Legolas could not help but joke as Elrond went off to organize the hot water for him.
“Spiders, are you sure that you are unhurt?” Elrohir was frowning with worry; they all knew the evil spiders and their capabilities.
“Yes, I am sure that I am unhurt, from the few Orcs that I encountered as well.” Legolas could not stop from rolling his eyes. Healers! And his friends always tried to mother him as well, for some reason they never believed him when he said that he was unhurt. But that could be because he always tried to hide his injuries. He hated having to be tended for the injuries he managed to pick up.
“Orcs, you never said anything about Orcs?” Estel sounded even more worried and agitated as they reached the Prince’s chamber.
“That’s because I survived and they didn’t!” With a sigh he pushed the chamber door open. His pack had already been brought up for him and rested on the side table for him to unpack. Not that he had brought much with him.
“I am glad to hear that, mellon-nin. Was your father...?” Estel broke off as there was a knock on the chamber door. It was the servants with pails of steaming water ready for Legolas’ bath. They let them through.
“We will leave you to bathe. I am sure that Ada will sort some food out for you ahead of the main meal, would you like it here or in the Hall of Fire?” Estel was watching the servants trail in and out of the bath chamber and so did not see the Prince turn a lovely shade of green.
“I would rather wait for the evening meal, if that is alright. It is not that far away, I can wait for it. I would like to rest ahead of it, though.” Legolas hated to admit that, but he was exhausted. Luckily the others understood.
Within minutes he was alone with Estel’s voice ringing in his ears about calling him for the evening meal.
The first thing Legolas did when the door closed was to head to the bath chamber to vomit. The mention of food had not helped and he lost the small amount of water that he had taken as the morning meal.
He stood shakily and made his way back to the main chamber to sort out some clean sleeping clothes. He then returned to the bath chamber with them and undressed. It was with a deep sigh of relief that he settled into the hot water.
Leaning back he relaxed for the first time in days. It felt good and he shut his eyes to savor the feeling. He stayed that way for some time. Before too long he knew he would have to wash and go to rest on his bed. It was with reluctance that he picked up the fresh cloth that lay on the side of the tub.
He began with his muscular arms, and then moved onto his chest to make sure they were done. To rid himself of the soap he ducked under the water, wetting his hair at the same time. Coming up he reached for the jar that held the shampoo that he loved so much. The scent of roses and lavender filled the chamber. Trust Elrond to think of everything. He had sent a mixture of roses and lavender to help him sleep.
He washed his hair twice before he was satisfied with it. He then readied the cloth before standing and washing his abdomen. He was enjoying the luxury of the warm bath when his hand hit a scar that should not have been there. His hand wavered for a minute before the cloth fell into the water. Looking down he could see the red puckered area on his right hand side.
Puzzled he felt the area. It was hot and hard. Where on Middle Earth had he got this scar from? He had no injuries like this in the past year. His arm had healed apart from the scar. Looking at that he found the old wound looked as if it had only just healed. It too, was a deep red.
Mystified and a little worried now, he checked himself over for anymore wounds. There were none but the two that he had found. Where could they have come from and why could he not remember them? He slumped back into the water deep in thought. He tried desperately to recall how he had come by this injury but only came up with a blank. The night during the trip that he could not recall came to mind.
Could this have happened then? Legolas’ breathing became a little erratic at that thought. His mouth went dry at the thought that someone had taken him and harmed him, but that he had no recall to when or how.
Then there was the sickness, could this be tied in with that? It had started along with the dizziness that still plagued him the day after the ‘missing night’. Should he tell Elrond? But what could he tell him? I have a scar I know nothing about and I am vomiting? What would the half Elf say to that? He could hear the ridicule clearly. No, this was best left alone.
With that thought he finished the bath. Panicking would not help, even though he would dearly love to give into the fear and hysteria that was building uncharacteristically inside of him.
Legolas released the dirty water, drying himself with the large fluffy towels that had been left for him. He was alright until he came to the area of the scar. His hand holding the towel wavered for a little before he could bring himself to dry it. It was then that he realised that the area was more than just a little tender. It hurt, a lot.
Finishing quickly, he pulled on his sleeping robe and left the bath chamber. He sat on the side of his bed, deep in thought. He was in two minds about talking with someone, not necessarily Elrond, about this. For the first time in a long while, Legolas had no idea what to do about something, anything. Finally he decided to leave it a couple of days. If it healed then he would forget it, chalk it down to an active imagination, and if it did not heal he would speak with Elrond.
Happy with his decision he stood to go and pull the curtains to try and get some rest. As he stood the dizziness caught him, sending him crashing to his knees. He knelt beside the bed for sometime. Finally it eased and he stood only to realize that someone had already been in to close them for him.
He lay on the bed after blowing the candles out. His mind was racing and it took more than just a little while before he could relax enough to sleep. His dreams were dark and full of shadows, shadows that moved; shadows that seemed to be evil.
Unknown to Legolas he was being discussed. His friends and Elrond sat in Elrond’s study discussing the state of the young Prince upon his arrival.
“I have never seen him looking so bad, Ada. Something had to have happened on the way here.” Estel was truly worried for his friend.
“Aye, Ada, and why did he have no guards with him? He did not seem surprised that the King had written to him so early.” Elladan agreed with his foster brother.
“I agree with all of you. Legolas certainly looks ill; I have never seen him so thin.” Elrond sighed with worry.
“Thin, Ada? Legolas is not thin, he is gaunt. Cachexic if you ask me. This is beyond thin. No, there is something more going on here. I think we need to examine him and find out what is wrong.” Elrohir was all for doing that at that very second.
“We cannot do that, Elrohir. What would be your reasoning? How could you justify it to Legolas? You look pale and thin so we need to examine you? Do you really think Legolas would let you? I do not think so.” Elrond was thinking fast.
“Then what do we do?” Elrohir sat back with frustration.
“I think we watch him for a while, treat him as we always do, but watch him. If he begins to appear to be ill let me know, more ill than he does at present, at least. I will keep an eye on him too. For the time being I would suggest that any plans you had for going hunting are put on hold. I think Legolas needs to stay in Imladris until we sort this out. I will also send a bird to Thranduil and see if Legolas was unwell while he was there. If this is new we know then that this is connected to the journey.”
“That is a good idea, Ada. We will have to be discreet; you know what Legolas is like when it comes to his health.” Elladan sighed. Legolas was always difficult when it came to injuries and they all knew it was tied into his mother’s death. Exactly why and what they did not know. Legolas would speak of the incident only rarely and even then not in great detail.
“I agree with you there, Elladan, the last thing we need is to give Legolas cause to run from us. No, we watch and wait.” Elrond was as worried as his sons. “I will also warn Glorfindel and have him watch Legolas as well.”
“I had better go and wake Legolas or he will miss the evening meal and I really do not think he can afford to loose anymore weight.” Estel commented as he stood and with a nod, left the chamber.
The hallways were clear and quiet this late in the afternoon and Estel reached Legolas’ chamber without anyone stopping him to talk, which for the young human was a relief.
He pushed the door open after a quick knock. There was no answer, so calling softly so he did not wake the Elf with a start he entered the chamber, holding the door open so he could see and not have to light a candle, he turned to his friend’s bed.
What he saw made him frown. Legolas’ sleep was not gentle nor was it relaxing. Estel let the door close with a small thump and he hurried to pull a drape so the chamber filled with natural light. He wanted to take a good look at his friend without Legolas being aware of it.
The Prince was laying flat on his back with his hands crossed upon his chest, as was usual for Elves. That was where it stopped being normal. Legolas was sleeping with his eyes closed. The only time an Elf did this was when they were exhausted to the point of collapse, very ill or dead. Luckily they could rule out the latter. They knew that Legolas was tired; it showed very clearly on the gaunt face. But was Legolas ill as well?
It made his worry rise even more as he stood next to his friend. It also made him feel bad at having to wake Legolas. But he really had no choice.
“Legolas? Legolas, you need to wake up. It is time for the evening meal.” That was when another thought slammed into him. Never in their long years of friendship had he managed to get this close to the archer without him waking up, never.
Legolas frowned and Estel could have sworn he looked pained.
“Legolas, it is time for you to wake up.” Estel reluctantly shook the thin shoulder.
Legolas woke with a choked gasp, the darkness of his dreams still very real.
“Easy, mellon-nin, you are safe in Imladris.” Estel hurried to reassure him.
“Estel?” Legolas sounded unsure of himself.
“Aye, Legolas it is me. Who did you think it was?” Estel joked, trying to lighten the tense atmosphere.
“Them.” The answer was succinct.
“Who?” Estel was surprised at this answer.
“Them. I thought it was.... Estel?” It was then Estel realised that Legolas was not fully aware of his surroundings.
“Easy, Legolas you are safe. Come on, wake up for me.” He sat gently on the bed and shook the Elf Prince gently, talking until awareness cleared in the blue eyes. “Are you with me now?”
A shaky nod was his answer. “Are you alright?”
“Yes, Estel I am sorry, I was dreaming. I am very tired.” Legolas could not meet his friend’s eyes.
“I can see that. Are you up to having dinner with us? You can have it here if you wish to and then go back to sleep?” Estel had to ask but he really wanted Legolas to join them in the Hall of Fire.
“No, I will join you.” Legolas had been so tempted to say yes to his friend’s offer, the thought of food had his stomach churning, but he had to begin to act normally or they would realize that something was wrong.
“I will meet you there, then. Give you a chance to get ready.”
“Thank you, Estel. I will not be long.”
Dinner that night was sheer hell for Legolas. Worse than he would have thought possible. The cook had made all his favorite food at Elrond’s request. How he managed to eat some and keep it down he would never know. Just the smell was bad enough.
If any one noticed that he was far quieter than normal, nothing was said. No one realised that he ate very little either. Most of what was served up was toyed with.
The twin’s were teasing Glorfindel when Elrond’s quiet voice made them quiet down. “Legolas, is there a problem with your food?”
They all looked at the Prince who made no move to answer. They watched him play with his food; he made no move to answer the Elf Lord.
“Legolas?” This time it was a little louder and brought Legolas back to earth with a start.
“What?” He blushed as he realised that he was the object of their attention. “I am sorry, you were saying?”
“I was just asking if there was something wrong with the food.” Elrond’s right eye was raised as he watched Legolas.
“No, it is good. I am sorry, I am very tired. Would you mind if I retire for the night?” The mention of food along with the smell proved to be too much and he needed to get out of there before he embarrassed himself.
“Of course not, I can see that you are tired and you have had a long journey. If you have problems resting, let me know.” Elrond smiled gently.
“Thank you, I will. Good night.” With the salutations ringing in his ears, he left the chamber. He walked from the chamber, but the minute the door closed he was running. He just made it to his chamber before he lost the contents of his stomach once more.
“I am even more certain that something is very wrong.” Elrond had been watching the Prince all the way through the meal. Legolas had taken two bites of food; the rest had been mashed or pushed around his platter. And quiet! Legolas could always be reticent and withdrawn at times, but this was unusual. No, there was something very wrong with the Prince.
“Ada, what is wrong?” Estel was the first to ask.
“Legolas has barely touched his food, said barely two words and has just fled from this hall. I will talk with him in the morning. I will let him sleep tonight. None of you is to speak with him about this. Leave this with me, do you all understand?”
Elrond could only smile as they hurried to agree with him.
Legolas finally finished in the bath chamber, his stomach once more empty save for the few sips of water he had just taken.
He quickly changed, expecting a knock on the door any minute followed by a barrage of questions from his friends.
Once in his night clothes he lay on his bed relaxing in the quiet. His hands lay lax on his stomach. Within minutes he was bolt upright, his hands pulling the silk top up to gaze at his stomach unsure as to whether he had felt what he thought he had just felt.
Long breathless minutes passed. Legolas was very puzzled as he pulled the top back down. He had to have imagined it. He was too tired, his mind was imagining it. But for those few heart stopping moments he could have thought he felt something moving inside of him!
Chapter three
His breath was coming in short, sharp pants; panic racing through him as if it were aflame. He had to be imagining this; it was his tired mind over reacting. There could be nothing moving in his stomach. Spots appeared before his eyes and he realised that he was close to hyperventilating. Taking deep, steadying breaths, he tried to calm himself down.
Once his vision and breathing were back to normal, he hesitantly lifted his sleeping robe. His stomach was still flat, the scar was still there and still a deep, dark red. With his hand shaking slightly, Legolas felt his stomach. He sat back with a whoosh of relief as he realised that there was nothing there. His stomach itself felt soft, as it normally did.
He needed to sleep; he needed to get this mind straight. Lack of sleep was obviously playing a large part in all of this. Yes, that was what this was.
He straightened his clothes and lay back down. Only for him to find that, although he was tired beyond imagination he could not settle, his mind was far too active. He sat back up with a sigh. It was then he saw the parchment with the familiar writing upon it, the letter from his father.
Legolas decided to open it there and then and write the reply, it would at least get it over with. When he put the quill down an hour later it was with a frustrated sigh. His father was angry with him and had demanded that Legolas return to Mirkwood immediately. His reply had been succinct; his return would have to wait.
That finished he looked around for something else to fill the time with, there was nothing in the chamber. He put his mind to good use, a wicked smile on his face. Yes, they would not expect him to do this so early in the visit.
He waited for all of the Last Homely Houses occupants to settle into dreams before making his way down to the kitchens. As usual, the cook had made the breakfast meal ahead of time. Something they always did with the prince, knowing his penchant for rising well ahead of the rest of the household.
He quickly gathered the things he would need and left the kitchen. Back in his own chamber he shared out the porridge between three bowls, trying to stop the nausea from over taking him. Using his own pillow from his pack, he ripped it open and gathered up the feathers. The twine that he normally used for his bow was added next, it would work perfectly.
It took perhaps an hour to rig up the doors to the three chambers. Once satisfied, he made his way back to his chamber and gathered up the last bowl to return it to the kitchen. He had just finished washing it when the door opened and Elrond walked in. He looked as surprised to see Legolas as Legolas was on seeing him.
“Is everything alright, Legolas?” Elrond could not help the worry that rose once more at seeing the Prince.
“Yes, I could not sleep so I came down to make a drink.” He smiled as he answered the other Elf.
“You cannot sleep? Legolas, you look exhausted!” Elrond exclaimed with dismay.
“I am tired, but I could not settle. I’m hoping something warm will help me settle.” Legolas hurried to reassure.
“Let me give you something, at least for tonight? A good sleep would do you a lot of good.” Elrond was already beckoning Legolas to follow, his own thoughts of a hot drink vanishing in light of Legolas’ need.
Twenty minutes later Legolas was back in his own chamber and taking his herb tea under Elrond’s watchful gaze. Once finished he handed the goblet back to his host.
“We need to speak in the morning, Legolas. Come to my office after the morning meal?” Elrond helped him lay down, fussing over the sheets like a worried father. Once finished he smiled down at the sleeping Prince. “Sleep well.”
Elrond left the chamber with a backwards glance, pleased to see the Elf relaxed.
Morning dawned, a bright morning with the Larks singing their joy to the sky. One by one the occupants of one certain Imladris house began to waken and prepare for the coming day. First to rise was Elrond.
He made his way down to the small chamber that they used to have a private morning meal within. He was met by Glorfindel and Erestor at the chamber door.
They had just settled into their usual seats when an unearthly cry shattered the peaceful calm. It was followed a second later by another and then another.
The three friends looked at each other for a moment before leaving to see what this drama was. They had just reached the top of the wooden stairs when another cry was heard.
“LEGOLAS!”
That brought a wide smile to Elrond’s face. Now he understood what Legolas had really been up to last night, the excuse of the tea had been just that.
The sight that greeted them had them all dissolving into laughter. Elrohir, Elladan and Estel all stood in their doorways. Bowls full of porridge had been rigged to tip when the trip wire that crossed the doorway was tripped. Three raven heads were covered in the congealed, cold substance. But that was not all, next to the bowls hung small pouches that were also rigged to open. The pouches had contained feathers. Feathers that now stuck to the porridge.
Elrond could not stop the tears of laughter from running down his face. To think he had been worried about Legolas! For him to come up with something this ingenious so early had to mean they were worrying about nothing, did it not?
“It is not funny, Ada.” Estel sounded aggrieved. It only served to make the other three Elves laugh all the more.
The door that led to Legolas’ chamber opened and a rumpled head poked his head out. He blinked sleepily. Blinked again. Turned wide innocent eyes to Elrond and looked back at his friends.
“Oh.” Legolas blinked again, the picture of complete and utter shock.
“Oh? OH? Is that all you can say? Oh? You prissy….”
“Estel.” There was a warning note in Elrond’s voice as he looked at his foster son. “It may not have been Legolas, if you recall he was exhausted last evening and I had to give him a sleeping potion. I even helped him back to his chamber.” The looks on the three faces in front of him were such a picture that he had to bite the inside of his cheek to stop from laughing once more. Why he had interceded on Legolas’ behalf he did not really know. It was just good to see this mischievous side to the Prince once more.
“Sorry, Legolas, we just assumed that as all three of us were targeted that it had to be you who did this.” Estel looked so abashed that Legolas almost admitted his duplicity there and then. Only Elrond moving towards him prevented him from admitting his guilt.
“How did you sleep, Legolas?” His back to his three sons he winked at the Prince.
Legolas smiled at the Lord of Imladris and realised that he knew who it was who had set this prank up. “I slept very well, thank you, Lord Elrond. I feel much better this morning.”
“Good, I am glad; I still wish to speak with you after the morning meal. For now, though, the four of you need to ready yourselves for the day. Really, Estel you look like a startled chicken!” The door behind Elrond could be heard to shut suddenly with a click. The oak door was not thick enough to muffle the sound of the Wood Elf’s laughter.
Estel glared at the door, still not one hundred percent convinced that he had not been mistaken in the identity of their assailant. Still, it was good to hear Legolas laughing like that after the worry of last night.
With a pretend vexed humph, he turned and re-entered his own chamber. He would have to take another bath and wash his hair, the second time this morning. If he ever found out who had done this…
Elrond, Glorfindel and Erestor watched with growing mirth as the twins tried to gather their shredded dignity and enter their own chambers.
As soon as they were alone in the hallway, Legolas opened the door to his chamber and beckoned them in, ushering them to be quiet until the door was closed.
“I am sorry, Lord Elrond. I could not resist especially after the little present that they put in my pack for me the last time I visited.” Legolas moved to sit on his bed once more.
“Oh and what did my beloved sons do?” Elrond was watching Legolas with probing eyes. The young Prince looked better this morning, he was pleased to note. He was still far too pale and still looked deathly tired, but no where like he had looked last night.
“I did not find their ’present’ until I had returned to Mirkwood. Adar was not amused. They covered my crown with some kind of honey mixture, we never did work out what it was exactly, and it took forever to get it clean. Adar only promised to do nothing if I promised to pay them back in kind. I did not think they would expect it to come so early.” Legolas was laughing again at the memory he would take back to his father along with Elrond’s comment.
Glorfindel’s mouth was open in shock as he looked from his friend to the chortling Silvan Elf. “It was you! But you said…”
“Ah, Glorfindel, how often do we see all three of my sons in the same predicament at the same time? No, this will have them wondering who it was who did do this to them! Serves them right I think, do you not, Mellon-nin?” Legolas was once again crying quietly with laughter, his arms held tightly around his stomach to keep it from aching more than it already did.
Glorfindel’s slow smile of understanding set Elrond off once more. They had all at some point been the target of the three brothers… exuberance more times than they cared to count. This in turn set off Erestor and soon all four were laughing outright.
Once they had regained their composure, the elder three Elves left Legolas to bathe and dress.
It was an hour later that Legolas made his way down to the small breakfast chamber. Only Elrond, Glorfindel and Erestor were present and they sat talking. Food lay ready on the table. Fruits and breads that actually made Legolas’ mouth water for the first time in days.
At Elrond’s instructions, he sat down. Soon the sound of three sets of footsteps sounded in the hallway. The twins and Estel entered the chamber and soon all were talking as they helped themselves.
Erestor watched all this with an amused smile. “I think that the cook may be doing chicken for the evening meal.” There was a twinkle in his eye as he spoke.
“Ah, good I need some feathers.” Glorfindel could not resist joining in.
“You do?” Erestor turned to the Balrog Slayer, winking as he spoke.
“Yes, I need some for my fletching and I would like to make a nice new pillow. They are the best to use are they not?” Glorfindel did not think he could stop from laughing much longer, the look on the twins and Estel’s face was just so priceless!
“Oh yes, absolutely. Chicken feathers are so easy to work with.”
“C… chicken for dinner?” Elladan was fairly stuttering now.
“That is what it looks like, Ion-nin. Now eat!” This last was sent Legolas’ way who was watching as they all continued the conversation. With a small smile Legolas went back to eating, listening as the two older friends continued their conversation as to what were the best feathers to use.
It was not until the hot food was brought in that a stunned silence fell from the two identical Elves and one human; before them had been set bowls of warm porridge. Legolas choked on the apple that he had been eating. Glorfindel had to pat his back to dislodge the offending piece.
Three wide grey eyes looked up at Elrond who was watching this with a slight smile. “Is there a problem?”
Three heads shook slightly in answer.
“Good then eat up; it will put… feathers on your chest, Estel.” Elrond went back to his own plate of porridge eating it with gusto.
“A… Ada?” Estel’s eyes were even wider with shock than they had been.
“Yes, Estel?” Elrond looked up at his youngest.
“Was it you who…?” Estel did not dare go on any further; he could not believe he was asking this.
“No, Estel, I had nothing to do with that; this is just a pure coincidence.” He looked over to the twins who were gaping at him as well. He dared to risk a peek at Legolas. Tears were once more running down the previously pale face. A face that now had a faint hint of pink. Yes, this had been more than worth it.
“It is not that funny, Legolas.” Elladan who was sitting next to Legolas gave him a play punch on his arm. Unfortunately it hit the wound from the Orcs that he had acquired weeks ago. He could not hide the wince, his face blanching as pain shot up his arm.
Elrond froze before speaking. “I thought you said you were unhurt? Let me see your arm.” He rose and made his way around the table to reach the Prince.
“It is fine, Lord Elrond. My patrol was attacked by Orcs five weeks ago. I was injured. It is healed, just a little tender. It is something I need to speak with you about, though.” Legolas tried to plead with his eyes for Elrond not to do this here.
“It has been treated?” One eyebrow rose as Elrond glared down at the Prince.
“Yes, our healer stitched it.” Legolas dare not look at his friends. They had asked last night but he had not expected his arm to still be a problem.
“Then why is it still causing you problems? No, I will look at it now. Come with me, the rest of you continue with your morning meal. Legolas, how many times must I ask you to call me Elrond?” He was shooing the startled Elf ahead of him.
As the door closed they could hear Legolas’ voice though it. “Every time, Hir- nin, it does not feel right…”
Silence fell in the small chamber. It was Estel who broke it. “I knew there was something wrong. I hate how he hides these things. Stubborn does not cover it!”
“I agree, Gwador, but that is Legolas for you. I feel dreadful that I caused him pain.” Elladan’s voice was soft and full of guilt.
“You did not know, Elladan. If Legolas chooses not to tell us, how can he blame you? You hold no blame. Eat.” Glorfindel reassured the horrified Elf before him.
It was a much sober group who finished the meal.
Legolas tried not to sigh in frustration as he was made to sit down on one of the beds in the Imladris Healing House. This was Elrond’s sanctuary, one that Legolas had seen far too many times in the past.
He could not stop himself from glancing around nervously. It was a large bright chamber; the windows were wide and long to let Arnor’s rays through to brighten the chamber even more. The fresh smell of herbs and roots lingered in the air. Beds lined the walls, sheets white and pillows fluffed to full effect. Only two of the beds were occupied apart from the one that Legolas sat upon. One was an Elf and not one that he readily recognised. The other was a human. Both were awake and watching proceedings with obvious interest.
With a low clearing of Elrond throat, both blushed and looked away. Legolas had to hide a smile; Elrond could be most intimidating if he wished to be.
“Now, Legolas let me see your arm.” Elrond watched him as he slowly and with reluctance removed his arm from the sleeve. It might well have been easier for him to remove the entire tunic, but that would only lead to awkward questions, questions that Legolas did not have the answers to.
Elrond brow furrowed as he took in the sight of the wound. “You say this happened five weeks ago?”
“Yes, Robitol stitched it. Ada said that it took forty three stitches to close it.” Legolas was trying to look down at the wound.
“It would have, it was a very nasty wound. It is not healing, though and it should be well healed by now.” Elrond was palpating the area, causing Legolas to hiss.
“Not healed? But Robitol removed the stitches quiet a while ago and he was very happy with it then. How can it not be healed now?” Confused eyes rose to meet Elrond’s worried grey ones.
“Have there been anything unusual happening?” Elrond was watching Legolas closely as he waited for the answer.
“Yes, it is something I wished to talk to you about. The spiders have changed. They have become larger, more intelligent. We are taking far more casualties. They are thinking, planning, as are the Orcs. The darkness grows deeper by the day. It worries me.” Legolas sighed with exhaustion.
“It was one of these new Orcs that injured you?” Elrond was probing the wound more closely now, smiling apologetically as Legolas winced at his touch.
“Yes, they lured us into a canyon that only had one entrance and exit. Thankfully this was the worst injury out of the patrol.”
“I see and there was no poison?”
“No, Robitol treated it quickly.”
“I would like to take some specimens in case this is a new Orc poison. If it is we need to get an antidote quickly. Have you had any nausea since this happened?” Elrond was already reaching for the ever present glass slides that he favoured.
“Yes, with some vomiting.” Elrond could hear the reluctance in the prince’s voice as he admitted this.
“That is why you have lost so much weight?” The startled look made him smile knowingly.
“I thought so. I think there may have been some poison on the blade, a long acting one. Let me look at this and I will speak with you later this afternoon. Go and finish your morning meal once I have finished cleaning this for you.” It was the work of minutes to bathe the wound with athelas. The bandage felt cool against the hot skin.
Estel and the twins were still in the morning chamber when he returned and he had a sneaking suspicion that they had been waiting for him.
Legolas had to suppress a groan as his fears were confirmed as three pairs of bright grey eyes latched onto his blue ones.
“Well, what did Ada say?” Estel did not beat about the bush.
“He thinks the blade may have had a new type of poison on it. He has taken samples and will get back to me. I am alright. What are we going to do today?” Legolas tried to change the subject subtly.
Estel rolled his eyes at his best friend. Legolas would just never talk about any type of injury, if there was one thing about the Elf that he would change it would be this. It could be so infuriating at times.
It was Elladan who answered the Prince. “I would love to go out into the forest.” He could have groaned at the bright, interested gaze that spread across the pale, tired features. “But Ada has asked that I help him with some paper work for the midsummer party. I am sorry, Legolas, I have to stay in the library working.”
“I understand, Elladan, if anyone can understand that, it is I.” Legolas hurried to reassure the other Elf. “Elrohir?”
“I cannot go either, Legolas I have work to do for Erestor.” The younger twin did not hide his grimace of distaste at having to work with the notoriously picky scholar.
Legolas grimaced in sympathy before turning to the young human beside him. “Estel?”
“I also have some work to do in the library. Ada wants me to look through the herb book to see if anything needs repairing. They take such heavy use that we have to do this every two years. It also keeps me updated, or so Ada tells me.”
“So you are telling me that on this beautiful day, all three of you are stuck in doors?” The fair Elf gestured towards the window where bright sunshine shone through the window. There was not one cloud in the sky and already heat haze was in evidence. The day promised to be a hot one.
“Do not rub it in, Legolas. I for one would love to go and have a swim in the pond rather than spend it in the library. These jobs really needed to be done weeks ago but we kept managing to put it off. Ada told us last night that if we wish to go hunting while you are here we need to get them out of the way.” Elrohir sounded aggrieved.
Actually, Elrond has said no such thing. But they had come up with this plan the night before when Legolas had left the Hall of Fire. It was specifically to keep Legolas within Imladris itself.
“Do not worry, I will just have to come and keep you all company and relax while you work your fingers to the bone!” Legolas smile was bright at the dark scowls that were being leveled at him from the others.
An hour later found the four of them seated in the large library, all three with jobs were hard at work. Legolas took the time to look around the large chamber.
He loved it here. It was almost identical to the large library that his father kept so lovingly back in Mirkwood. The chamber was huge and lined by shelves made of a light colored oak. There was not one space for another book on the shelves. The books themselves were bound in leather of various colours. The smell of the leather mingled with the smell of old and worn parchment. It was a heady mixture that recalled happy days spent with his father helping him work.
Wide, deep windows let the sunshine in giving the chamber a sense of lightness that was good for the Prince’s heart. In the middle of the chamber was the large beech table that his friends were working around. Large armchairs dotted the chamber, including Legolas’ personal favourite, by the fireplace.
It was of deep brown leather that had seen many years, but was so comfortable that you could sink into it. That was just what Legolas intended doing once he found the book that he wanted to read. A day by the warm fire sounded good, even if there was no fire. Memory could help with that little fantasy.
Finally finding the book he had not finished the last time he was in Imladris, he crossed back over to the chair and made himself comfortable.
The sounds of industry from the table made him smile, the soft chatter muffled over the scratching of quills.
The book soon caught Legolas’ attention once more and he did not notice that the talk had died down, as had the scratching of quills. Soon he was so comfortable that he did not even notice when sleep over took him.
Estel had to smile at the contented look on Legolas’ face as he settled into the chair. Almost as if they had planned it, which they had not, they fell silent. Soon Legolas’ eyes had closed and it was blatantly
obvious the Elf Prince was asleep.
Then Estel noted with a sudden shiver of fear that Legolas had his eyes closed. He had known Legolas was exhausted but to see him like this…. It just seemed so wrong. He stood and crossed the chamber to pick up the blanket that was always kept in the library. He gently eased the book from lax fingers, laying it quietly on the small table beside him. Shaking the throw, he tucked it in around his friend, before returning to the table. This had been the whole idea, to get Legolas to rest. It had worked well.
Elrond entered the library three hours later to find it quiet. Estel put finger to lips to shush him and prevent him from talking before pointing to Legolas. The pleased, indulgent smile that spread across Elrond’s face made them all smile.
“How long has he been sleeping?” His voice was low and barely audible.
“About three hours. He has not moved an inch.” Elladan replied with a small smile.
“Good. I came to let you know the noon day meal is ready, but I think we will let Legolas sleep and put some food to one side. As long as he eats it does not have to be at meal times.”
“We agree, Ada but may I stay with Legolas? I am doing well with the cataloguing.” Estel felt he could not leave Legolas’ side for the moment. He did not know why.
“Of course, Estel I will bring you some food. All of us, yes, I will sit with you for the meal.” Elrond commented as he headed from the chamber once more.
He returned soon later followed by Glorfindel and Erestor who were laden with trays of food. Soon the table had been converted into a make shift dining table.
The meal was taken in companionable silence. They carried on this way until a low moan garnered their attention.
It was dark. Darkness so complete that he could see nothing, even given his Elven eyesight. It was also cold; a bone chilling cold that set his teeth to chattering.
How he came to be here he did not know. He had tried to find the door so that he could leave, but he could find no exit.
He stumbled in the darkness, catching himself against the stone walls. Walls that ran with wetness.
His heart began to thump with a vengeance, he was in a cave! He hated caves, hated them with a vengeance ever since…
He could not think of that, not now if he did….
Skittering sounds came from behind him and he whirled around hoping to see what the culprit was. He automatically reached for his twin blades, but they were not there. Neither was his bow and quiver. He was totally unarmed. But how? He never went out with his weapons.
His heart and lungs hitched even more. This could not be happening.
The sound came once again, this time seemingly behind him. He turned sharply to try and listen into the darkness. He may be unable to see but he could at least hear.
Nothing, just a resounding silence. Then it began.
Come, child let me take a look at you.
“Who are you?” His voice was hesitant.
That is not important. I need to have a good look at you.
“Where are you?” He could not make out the direction from where the voice came.
Everywhere and no where.
The voice sounded amused and Legolas could not make out the gender from the being that was speaking.
Who ever it was they were just as bad as Mithrandir for talking in riddles. He could feel his irritation rising.
“What do you want with me?”
To see you. I wished to meet you, to put a face to the voice.
“Why? What for? I do not know you.” Please stop talking in riddles, he pleaded silently.
To see you who has been chosen. I had heard you were beautiful, they were very wrong, it goes deeper than that. A lightness of spirit and a sense of good. We will have to change that.
“What?! Why?” I am happy as I am.”
You may be I am not.
“Leave me alone.” It was a demand from Legolas as he tried to deal with the confusion that he felt growing within him.
It is too late for that, child. The future has been changed and it will be good for both of us. You will willingly become mine, have no fear of that…
“No, no.” Legolas was moaning in his sleep, his head rocking from side to side on the chair. Nothing they were doing seemed to be able to bring him back from the dark place that he currently inhabited.
“No, please, no! Leave me alone, I am me, just me!” The tone was pleading and heartbreaking at the same time.
“Legolas, wake up! Legolas, please, Mellon-nin, please wake up.” Estel was worried by this… state that his friend was currently in.
“No, I will not, you cannot make me! No!!” With a gasping breath Legolas sat upright in the chair before dropping his head into his hands.
“Legolas, are you alright?” Elrond reached out to lift the Prince’ chin so that he could get a good look at the young Elf.
What he saw took his breath away. Legolas’ eyes were no longer blue; they were a deep, deep black…
To be continued
Chapter Four
Elrond was so surprised that he unknowingly took a step back. He vaguely heard the cries of surprise from his sons and friends, though he was too intent on the sight before him to turn to them.
“Legolas?”
“Yes?” It was Legolas’ voice, but different, not as light or musical as normal. There was a difference to the timber and tone that he could not quite place.
“Are you alright?” Elrond kept his voice calm, even if his heart hammered in his chest. He saw in his peripheral vision that Glorfindel and the twins came to flank him, while Estel hovered beside Legolas’ chair.
“Yes.” The tone was clipped. The black eyes had not blinked once since Legolas had looked up from his hands. It was eerie, to say the least.
Something strange seemed to flicker in those bleak eyes, not a description he would normally ascribe to the usually joyful Prince. As he watched, a frown creased the smooth forehead, almost as if Legolas were in pain. He seemed to be struggling within himself. Before they could say any more his head dropped into his hands once more.
Elrond saw fine tremors start to rack the thin form in front of him. The shaking seemed to be getting worse. He was aware, once more, of Erestor leaving the chamber.
“Legolas, what?” Elrond moved in front of Legolas once more and knelt before his shaking form. Legolas mumbled into his hands, so softly that neither Elrond nor the others could hear him. Elrond leaned closer until he was able to make out the words.
“Just a nightmare . . . just a nightmare . . . not real, cannot be real. . .”
“Legolas, look at me.” Elrond tried to move Legolas’ hands away to see his eyes.
The blond head shook as Legolas continued to mumble, resisting Elrond’s efforts. Erestor returned with more blankets, which he handed to Elrond. With a smile of thanks, he began to spread them across the thin shoulders. Estel helped secure them around his shivering friend.
“Please, Legolas, look at me.” It was nothing short of an order.
It took some time, but finally he took his hands away from his face. Legolas looked up at them.
With a sigh of relief, Elrond sat back on his heels. For all, other than Legolas, the feeling seemed to be mutual to all of those in the chamber. The Prince’s eyes were once more their familiar blue. At the moment, a troubled blue to be sure, but blue all the same.
“What was that, Legolas?” Elrond reached for the Prince’s long, graceful hands. He winced at the chill when he caught them within his own. They were freezing cold and fine shakes still coursed through them.
“N-Nightmare.” Even Legolas’ voice was shaking.
“Can you tell me about it?” Elrond gently rubbed the hands trying to bring some warmth to them.
“Dark and empty. Voice.” His shaking became even worse.
“Shush, Mellon, you are safe. No one will harm you here. It was nothing but a nightmare and not real. Try to rest.” Elrond looked up and indicated with a nod for Estel to take his place. As they moved, Elrond leaned in to whisper in his ear. “Do not mention his eyes under any circumstances.”
“Of course, Ada.” Estel was not sure what had happened, but explanations could wait for later. For now, he had a distraught friend to care for.
Elrond made his way from the chamber, motioning the others to join him. Once the door was closed, he moved away so that Legolas could not hear what they were saying, if he was listening, though Elrond doubted he was.
“I am going to make a tea for Legolas, he needs to calm down. It will also help him sleep. I want you two to stay with Estel and Legolas. Do not, what ever you do mention that his eyes changed. As far as he knows nothing happened apart from a nightmare.” Elrond spoke to both Elladan and Elrohir.
“Of course, Ada.” They quietly agreed as they moved back to the Chamber.
“Erestor I need you and your team to look for references of eyes changing colour. Anything will help. We will be moving Legolas back to his chamber shortly so they can join you here then. Until then, can you work on your own?” Elrond had turned to the scholar.
“Of course, I can start right now, anything to help Legolas.” Elrond smiled as his friend walked away. Legolas had a way of inspiring loyalty in all he met.
“And what of me, Mellon-nin?” Glorfindel asked.
“I need your help in the Healing Halls.” Elrond walked quickly down the corridors, Glorfindel fell into step close behind him.
“What do you think is happening to him?” There was concern on the blond Balrog-Slayer’s face.
“For now? I have no idea. I would not have believed it possible if I had not seen it for myself. I will be sending for Mithrandir. I fear I may need his help with this one.” Elrond had to admit.
They reached the Healing wing. “I need you to look at the samples I took from Legolas. I could find nothing, but that does not mean that there is nothing there to find.” Elrond ruefully admitted.
“You mean you are fallible?” He could hear the teasing in his old friend’s voice. Even with the seriousness of the situation, his friend could see light.
“Yes, but so are you!” Elrond shot back. “I will make the tea and take it to legolas. If you find anything, let me know. Once Legolas is sleeping and moved, I will come back and help you.”
It did not take long for Elrond to make the herb tea that he had used so often. He added an herb for calming and another herb to fight infection. With what he had seen of the wound to Legolas’ arm he did not doubt that he needed it.
When the tea was ready, he left the chamber. Glorfindel was bent over his work, intent on his search.
Once he arrived back at the library, he found little changed. Erestor was working with quiet surety at the back of the chamber, while his three sons hovered over Legolas. Another blanket had been added to the pile that already covered the Prince and, to his shock, he could see that Legolas was still shaking very badly.
Estel was knelt before him, talking softly and rubbing his hands, just as Elrond himself had done earlier. Legolas was shaking his head to whatever Estel was saying to him.
“Let me see to Legolas, Estel.” With a comforting pat on the human’s back they exchanged places. Elrond placed the goblet on the floor.
“Legolas, I have brought you a tea that will calm you and help you sleep.” His voice was soft and gentle as he spoke with Legolas. His reaction was not what the Elven Lord had anticipated.
“No! No, please!” There was real panic in the blue eyes now. A panic none had seen there before.
“Legolas, it will help you to calm down.” Elrond’s finger’s reached for the pulse point on Legolas’ wrist. It was as he feared. Legolas’ pulse was racing beneath his fingers, so fast that he could not keep count with it.
“Try and calm down, Legolas. Deep breaths, just take a deep breath.” Elrond remained calm. Any show of panic could make this worse.
“No, please.” Legolas was panting now, finding it hard to breathe. Even taking in air seemed difficult.
“Legolas, listen to me. Take deep breaths, follow me. Legolas! Look at me! Breath slowly and deep, in through your nose. Legolas!” This was not working. Legolas’ panic was only deepening and he did not seem to be listening. He turned to speak to Elladan, only to find him handing him a bag of parchment-like material.
“This may help, Ada.” It was a familiar bag, one they had used many years ago when Estel had first arrived to live with them. The small child had been devastated at the deaths of his parents and would often have panic attacks. This one small bag had helped him more than anything. Elrond had thought it long lost, he looked up in surprise. Elladan just shrugged with a small smile.
Elrond smiled and turned back to Legolas; bunching the opening in his hands, he held it over Legolas mouth and nose. Elladan caught the flailing arms that tried to rip the mask away.
“Easy, Legolas this will help. Just take a deep breath and blow into the bag." Legolas tried to speak again causing the bag to blow out minutely. As Elrond watched, Legolas took another breath to try again. This time the bag moved more. With each attempt to speak Legolas seemed to calm, eventually he was able to speak, albeit shakily.
“No sleep, please, no sleep.” The blue eyes were now filled with a mixture of fear and horror.
“It will help you, Legolas. I promise one of us will sit with you at all times and if you begin to have another nightmare we will wake you. I just need you to calm. Will you drink the tea?”
Legolas flinched and drew back; it was Estel who broke the silence. “I will sit with you, Legolas. I will not leave you at all, Mellon-nin. Drink the tea, please?”
The plea in the brown eyes of his friend broke through the shock and fear. With a hesitant nod, he held out his hand to take the goblet. As Elrond let go of the goblet, it became obvious that Legolas’ arm was shaking too badly. He was in danger of dropping the goblet. Elrond said nothing, but helped Legolas steady his hand to drink, helping him grasp the goblet and speaking soothingly as if Legolas was an Elfling again, the same small golden-haired Elfling he had once been who had sat happily upon Elrond’s lap for hours. Strangely, it seemed to help calm Legolas.
Estel took the goblet and set it on the table behind him. When he turned back again, his father was soothing the ruffled hair back. No one made a sound, so the only words spoken were from Elrond. As they watched, Legolas’ tremors slowly receded a bit, but he was still shaking and his hands remained as cold as ice.
As soon as the blue eyes fluttered closed, Elrond turned to Elladan. “Make sure there is a fire lit in Legolas’ bedchamber.” At the flick of Elladan’s eyes to the window, Elrond explained. “Legolas is chilled; he is in shock and needs the warmth.”
Elladan nodded and left the chamber. The rest of them all waited until they were sure that Legolas was truly asleep. Then, without a word, Elrond gently picked Legolas up as if he weighed nothing more than an Elfling and led the way out of the study.
When they reached Legolas’ chamber, Elladan had drawn back the covers on his bed. A fire burned brightly in the grate, its warmth already spreading to the chamber. Estel gently removed his friend’s shoes.
“The rest of his clothes can be changed later. For now, he needs to rest and get warm.” Elrond spoke as he crossed the chamber to lay Legolas down and pulled the covers up over Legolas. “We can talk to him later, once he is awake. Estel will be staying with Legolas. Come.” He spread his arms and ushered the twins from the chamber. He paused to watch as Estel brought the chair from the desk to sit beside his friend. With a smile, he closed the door.
Estel was not even aware of his father’s scrutiny. He was focused on his friend. His mind was spinning. Never had he seen Legolas like this and, from the other’s reactions, they had not either. What could be happening to him? He had been acting oddly from the minute he arrived. Had something happened to him on the journey, or before that? Legolas had mentioned that his father had not wanted him to come. Was that it? Had they fought? But, if that was the problem, why would Legolas not speak of it? That was not strange; it took a lot to get Legolas to speak of his problems. What worried Estel was just that his behaviour was much different to those times that he had argued with his father in the past.
The door opened quietly and Elrond stepped into the room. As he reached Estel, he bent low to whisper once again in his ear. “I brought you the book you had been reading. Legolas may sleep for quite a while.” He handed the book over. It was an old favourite, one that embarrassed Glorfindel every time he noticed anyone was reading it. It was a tale of the fall of Gondolin. Glorfindel had played a significant part in it.
“Thank you, Ada.” His voice was as soft as his father’s, knowing full well that he could hear him clearly. “He has not moved.”
“Good, the rest will do him much good.” Elrond reached for the thin wrist and felt the pulse once more. This was far more like it, the pulse was much calmer and, although not back into normal range, he was pleased with it. However, he was not happy with Legolas’ sleeping with eyes closed; he would have to find the cause of that. If Legolas was having nightmares and fighting sleep, exhaustion would probably be the cause. He turned to his foster son. “Stay with him, you are relieved from your duties for the remainder of the day. I will bring the evening meal to you.” He was gently brushing the Prince’s blond hair as he spoke. “I will be in the Healing Wing if I am needed. I will have one of the twins stay nearby so that help is at hand should Legolas have another of these panic attacks.”
“Thank you, Ada. I have never seen Legolas like that.”
“I know, Estel, they can be very frightening when they happen, for all involved. For Legolas, sleep will help a great deal. I will leave you now. Help is a call away.” At Estel’s nod, Elrond left his son to watch over his friend.
After leaving instructions with the twins, Elrond hurried back to see if Glorfindel had found anything yet. When he reached his study, it was to see that his old friend had been very busy. Parchment and books lay strewn about. Normally, Elrond would have said something about the mess, but for once he let it go.
“Have you found anything?” He asked.
“Not really. There is a nasty infection that has shown up, but you had already identified that. It might be worth taking another blood sample later and looking at that. I am still working, unless you wish to take over?” Glorfindel had not even looked up from his work.
“I think that if you and I work on it together may get this problem sorted quicker. What still needs done?” Elrond had reached his friend’s side and was watching him as he worked. Within minutes they were both absorbed in the work.
They seemed to make good progress until an injured Elfling was brought in and the junior and trainee healers could not stop the wound from bleeding. That called Elrond away. It was a couple of hours before he returned to find Glorfindel cleaning up the study.
“Did you find anything?” He stood leaning against the chamber door tiredly, it had been that kind of day.
“Nothing more than we had already found. This is odd. I have never seen an infection like this before. As I was working, it seemed to be eating the sample.” Glorfindel’s blue eyes looked as confused as his voice sounded.
“It ate the sample?” There was surprise in Elrond’s voice, never had he heard of this before.
“It ate the sample.” Glorfindel’s voice was serious and there was no hint of mirth in his eyes at all.
“I will need to take a look at the wound on Legolas’ arm when he wakes. If the infection is doing this to the sample, what is it doing to his arm?” Elrond was worried once more. It was not evident at first glance, his face was still calm. All that did show was a small frown and a very slight tic to the right side of his jaw.
“Go and see him.” Glorfindel did not need to say it twice. Within seconds he was alone, looking around the chamber. He shrugged, cleaning up could be done later. This was more important. He soon followed Elrond to Legolas’ chamber.
The door was still open when he arrived. Elrond was talking with Estel. Glofindel saw that Legolas was still sleeping; his eyes closed and face peaceful. He moved to Elrond’s side in time to hear Estel say. “He has not stirred, Ada. His sleep has been undisturbed.”
Elrond nodded at his son’s words before checking Legolas over. His pulse was back to normal,that pleased Elrond. Legolas was still pale and there were black rings present beneath his closed eyes. He seemed unchanged, his breathing soft and steady.
Elrond brushed back the hair that had once more fallen over Legolas’ eyes so that he could feel his forehead with the back of his hand. There was a slight fever, but nothing that would worry him. As he moved away, Legolas gave a small groan, his nose scrunching up as he moved his head. As they all watched, he turned his head away from them before he opened his eyes and blinked. He lay like that for a few seconds, blinking fast as if clearing his eyes of the last vestiges of sleep.
Once more awake, he turned to look at them, confusion evident in his eyes. “Why am I in bed?”
“What do you remember, Legolas?” Elrond sat on the side of the bed.
“I was reading in the library. Estel, Elladan and Elrohir were working.” Was Legolas’ instant reply.
“You remember nothing after that?” Elrond raised his right eyebrow in surprise.
“No, what happened?” There was trepidation in Legolas’ voice as he asked.
“You fell asleep and had a nightmare. You suffered a panic attack and I gave you something to help you sleep then we moved you here.” Elrond explained.
“I had a nightmare?” Legolas’ voice was full of shock. He could not believe he did not remember that!
“Yes, Legolas, you did. How do you feel now?” Elrond replied.
Legolas looked to Estel for confirmation. Estel nodded his agreement to what his father had said.
“I’m alright.” The three of them could have groaned at hearing that, it was Legolas’ standard answer every time he was hurt and trying to hide it.
“Does your arm still hurt?” Elrond would not take that as an answer. He got a grudging reply.
“A little.” Legolas now had a wary smile on his face.
“May I take another look at it?” Elrond was watching Legolas as he lay there. Legolas had yet made no effort to move.
“Must you?” Elrond noted there was again an odd tone to his voice.
“Yes, Legolas, in fact I insist. The wound is infected and I need to clean it. Do I drug you and do it, or will you let me look willingly?” Elrond spoke with a slight edge of command to his voice. This was not the time for Legolas’ Valar-forsaken stubborn streak to show.
Legolas looked down for one moment before saying. “No, you can see to it. I am sorry. I just cannot believe that . . .” He broke off with a shrug of his shoulders.
“It is well, Penneth. I understand.” Elrond patted the long, thin hands that gripped the covers. “I just need to get some herbs and bandages.” He rose and left the chamber.
As he left, he could hear the Prince ask Estel. “Did I really have a nightmare? Why can I not recall it?”
That was a question that Elrond would like to know the answer to as well.
When he returned, he noticed that Glorfindel had found a perch on the end of Legolas bed as well. He gave a small smile. It seemed there would be no way that he would be able to remove his friend from the chamber, the same could be said of Estel.
“Do you want Estel to stay? Glorfindel will be helping me.” Elrond decided to give Legolas the choice.
Legolas shot a quick look at his friend as if weighing him up. It was not a look that Estel was used to from his friend and it made him very uncomfortable. “He may stay.”
“Alright. I need you to take your tunic off so that I can see your arm.” No one spoke as Legolas moved at last, pulling his arm out of the top so that they could get to his arm. If anyone realised that he had not removed the top as he had been asked, they did not comment. Only a small part of his upper body was showing.
Elrond moved close so that he could reach the bandage that he had applied earlier that morning. Even before he began to unwind the bandage he could see the collection of debris that had seeped out and stuck to the cloth, this would make it much harder.
“Estel, could you make me up a simple pain potion? Legolas is going to need it.” He had given thought to this as any good healer would and had brought some boiling water with him to use. It was cooler now, which was good, as Elrond would be using some to soak the bandage off where it had stuck to the wound.
Legolas grudgingly took the potion, mumbling about having just got here and being repeatedly drugged. It caused them all to smile.
Once he had drunk the tea, Elrond began to soak the bandage. It took a while but eventually the last of the cloth was pulled away, Legolas hissed as it came away.
Elrond stopped what he was doing until Legolas gave him the nod to continue. The last thing the Elf Lord wanted was to cause him further pain.
He then removed the old athelas that he had applied. It was only due to his long years of practice at healing that his face remained calm. There was a flicker of surprise and horror in his eyes for one moment and his eyebrows met until they formed a V, but other than that his face was completely blank.
It was not so for the others. Estel drew back in shock. “You say that wound is five weeks old?” There was incredulity in his voice.
Legolas replied completely calm. “Yes, Robital took care of it.” He did not even look at his arm and if Elrond had not been so involved with washing his wound, he would have noticed the bored, indifferent tone in Legolas’ voice.
“This is heavily infected, Legolas. You should have told me that you were hurting that badly.” Elrond was busy inspecting the wound.
“It is not hurting.” Legolas was adamant.
Elrond sighed. Now was not the time to begin an argument with the Prince that could wait for later, much later. But it would not be forgotten.
The wound was bad, worse than it had been that morning. The area was swollen and red. But that was only at the top. At the bottom it was an ominous black. Not the black colouring of Morgul poisoning, this was even deeper than that, if it were at all possible. Elrond’s heart jumped when he saw it. It was possible that the infection was eating into the wound; there was only one way to find out. He gently placed his finger against the wound and pushed. His finger went in as far as the the second knuckle of his forefinger. How soon it might reach the next knuckle he did not know. All he knew was that he would do all he could to prevent that from happening.
As he removed his finger another spurt of debris followed it and he accepted the cloth that Glorfindel passed him. He quickly glanced at Legolas. He was looking straight ahead and did not seem to be in any discomfort. Estel was a different matter. He was watching his father with a look of horror and disgust, but it seemed he could not look away.
Rather than just lay the athelas on the wound, he ground it into a mash and smeared it across the top and into the cavity as far as he could get it. Then he placed another cloth over it before bandaging it once more. Finished, he stood back and looked at Legolas.
“We will let you get dressed. It is time for the evening meal. Do you feel up to joining us?”
“Yes, I feel well.” Legolas looked at Elrond with a calm smile.
“Very well. It would be best if you do not use that arm. Estel will stay and braid your hair for you. We will see you later.” Elrond gathered the debris of the treatment and unused herbs.
Estel stayed and soon the two friends were chatting together. Well Estel was chatting. Legolas had selected some clean clothes and had moved to the bath chamber. The door to the chamber was open but Estel could not see in, which suited Legolas just fine as he changed. He placed his crumpled, dirty clothes into the hamper before moving to the main chamber. He then sat before the mirror, barely joining the talking, but just added a yes or no in the right places.
Estel brushed the long silky hair; he had done this before when Legolas had been injured and unable to move one of his arms. Legolas had long ago taught Estel how to braid his hair in the warrior style that Legolas used when out on patrol and away from Mirkwood and also the Royal braids that he wore for formal functions, he was the Crowned Prince after all.
Once finished, they made their way down to the Hall of Fire which was slowly filling with Elves ready to enjoy their evenings with both friends and family.
Legolas and Estel answered many greetings as they made their way to the main table. The meal was good and Legolas was surprisingly hungry. Actually, that was not the right word, he was starving. He was not aware of the stunned looks on the others’ faces as he literally devoured the first course. Once the second course arrived they watched with growing amusement as he pushed the vegetables out of the way and concentrated on the meat. None of them had seen an Elf eat this much meat before and Legolas even surpassed Estel’s appetite, that was saying something!
Legolas was unaware of the odd looks; all he could concentrate on was the platter in front of him and the meat. When did it start to be so good? Never before had meat tasted like this, he wanted more and he wanted it raw, so that he could taste the blood. . .
That pulled him up short. Shock and fear filled him. He wanted raw meat? Disgust filled him and he pushed the platter away, suddenly no longer hungry.
For the rest of the night he sat quietly, listening to all the joy and happiness as the Elves and human around him sang and told tales. But inside he was cold, cold and scared.
Finally, at a decent time, he excused himself, pleading tiredness, and left for his chambers. No one argued, they expected it after all that had happened this day. As he passed, Elrond caught his hand and told him that a sleeping potion would be awaiting him in his chamber when he got there. Elrond watched him as he left the chamber. Legolas’ hands had still been cold as ice.
Elrond was right. The herb tea was sitting on his bedside cabinet. He shrugged. He would take it. It would not hurt, he had felt better for the sleep he had taken that afternoon, maybe more would help. He took fresh nightwear from the draw and moved into the wash chamber. Changing quickly, he paused as he pulled the shirt down. He could see that across his right side was a dark bruise just around the area of the scar.
He looked up, shocked. Where had that come from? He didn’t remember bumping against anything. Finally, he pulled the shirt down. There was nothing to be done tonight. As he looked into the mirror, his eyes flashed and he smiled a cold, satisfied smile. His eyes were black once more.
“Well done, Little One. You have done well. Tomorrow we can start our little plan.” A voice spoke in his mind.
Legolas smiled coldly at his reflection. His eyes flashed again and he shook his head. He felt a little dizzy and held onto the cold sink. Where had that come from? He waited to make sure that no further dizziness assailed him. When it did not, he moved carefully to the bed.
Before he got comfortable, he took the tea and then lay back and let sleep overcome him.
To be continued
Chapter Five
The first thing that greeted the Elves and Human the next morning when they woke from their rest was the deep booming of thunder.
The air around Imladris was heavy and the humidity was more than it had been for a while. Lightning flashed in streaks across the sky, a sky that was a deep hue of black. The only color other than that was the lightning flashes that streaked through the sky.
The storm was going to be long and hard. Rain already poured from the sky in sheets as the storm progressed.
Elrond rose from his bed to watch the spectacular storm as it played out around them. He could smell the ozone as lightning continued to flash across the sky. This was nature at its best. Such majesty could not have been perfected any other way.
Taking a deep breath Elrond closed his eyes. He needed to contact Mithrandir and he could do that well enough in the privacy of his own bed chamber. No one could or would ask questions then.
/Mithrandir/
/Elrond? What is wrong/ Elrond had to smile at that. The only time they used the Elven Rings of Power was in an emergency. The fear of detection was great and with the growing darkness that was over taking Middle Earth it was wise to be cautious.
/Mae Govannen, Mellon-nin./ Elrond’s voice was wry.
Mithrandir’s humph of frustration and pure irritation could not be missed, not even at this distance and Elrond really wanted to laugh. The Maia played the doddering, miserable old man to real perfection at times.
/Mae Govannen, Elrond. Please answer the question./ There was real impatience in the Maia‘s voice.
/Have I caught you at a bad time, Mellon-nin? Where are you/ Elrond started the questions with light heartedness, but the last question was finished with seriousness.
/I am traveling over the Misty Mountains. It is thundering and I am wet! I was heading towards Lothlorien. What is wrong/ Mithrandir’s voice was serious now as well, he must have picked up on Elrond’s feelings of worry.
/There is a problem here in Imladris, can you divert and come to us/
/Yes, of course, what is the problem/ Elrond had to smile at the decision that had been made in an instant without needing to think about it.
/Legolas is here and there is something wrong. Something very wrong. He was wounded and the wound is not healing and looks as if it is being eaten from the outside inwards. Also he is acting completely unlike his normal self. His eyes have changed from blue to black and back again. He is also missing memory for periods of time. I have a feeling that this will need both of us, before the end./
/His eyes have changed color/ Mithrandir sounded as surprised as Elrond was to have seen it happen. He still felt a shiver as he thought of the normally warm eyes turning so bleak and… evil. That could be the only way to describe it. He never thought he would apply that epithet to Legolas in any way.
/Yes, they changed color. Legolas had no recollection of it afterwards either. He thought he had experienced a nightmare./
/I will be with you as soon as I can, within the next two, mayhap three, days. Do not let Legolas be on his own. Have someone with him at all times. He is eating/ Mithrandir soundedthoughtful
/Not at first, but now… all he had last night was meat. I have never seen him eat like that in all the years I have known him./ Elrond’s worry was growing. /I will make sure that one of us is with him at all times./
/Good, does he have any other wounds/
/I do not know, he will not let me look. He actually seems adamant that even his arm does not hurt, but it has to. It is impossible that it does not pain him./
/I see, try and work on that. We need to…/
/Beware the darkness that surrounds the Caun./ another voice had entered the conversation. It was a decidedly feminine voice.
/Galadriel? What have you seen/ Elrond could feel Mithrandir’s shock, as well as his own, through the shared link.
/Darkness, Elrond. Something threatens Legolas, but as yet I can not see it. I have seen him with dark eyes laughing manically. I have also seen him waking from a deep sleep in confusion, but nothing more. I fear for him. Can you not feel the shadow over Imladris, Elrond? Reach out with your senses and see what they tell you./ Galadriel sounded as worried as the other two now.
Elrond did just that. He let himself relax and felt the air around him, connected to the nature that surrounded them in Arda’s sweet song. He was not as proficient as a Wood Elf would be at reading the land about them, but he could more than get by.
The Lord of Imladris could feel the fury in the strength of the storm. A storm that was trying to wash something away as if there was a blot or stain that needed clearing away from the area. The trees whispered in uneasy tones. Small animals were leaving the area and getting to safety. Getting to safety? There was always safety in Imladris that was why it was known as a haven, a haven away from the woes and trials of life that could be harsh at times. And then…. Then, he could sense the darkness. It was palpable and he could taste the hatred that seemed to pulse in time with the storm. Elrond tried his best to locate where this evil was centered. Tried to discern where he should be looking, but suddenly the evil gave a cackle and vanished as if it had never been there at all.
This made Elrond more than just a little uneasy. There was something of great evil in Imladris and he had not even known it.
Now he could not even trace it.
/You can feel it/
/Feel it, I can now taste it. What is it and how did it manage to creep into my Realm/ Elrond’s fury was palpable over the connection.
/I do not know and cannot see that far. Mithrandir you are traveling to Imladris/
/Yes, Galadriel./
/Good we will join you. Celeborn also feels that this is of great importance. We leave later this afternoon. Stay safe, both of you. Whatever this is, it is ancient and will stop at nothing to get what it desires. We will see you soon. Namarie./
/Namarie, Galadriel, and safe journey to both of you. Contact me if you see anything more./ Elrond was worried about his mother-in-law.
/I will. Look after Legolas./
/We will. Mithrandir, can I send a fresh horse for you/
/That would be appreciated, if I am to make my way to you as soon as I can./
/It will leave within an hour. Safe journey, Mellon-nin./
/I will try. The giants are out and playing. They rather seem to like the storm. I am glad some do/
Elrond was laughing slightly as he broke their connection and then sat tiredly for a moment. Trust the old Wizard to moan about something so innocuous.
Fifteen minutes later he left his chambers and went down to the small chamber where they took their morning meals. Lightning seemed to flash with even greater intensity as he passed the tall wide windows. Now though, it was the bright blue of forked lightning and the thunder claps that followed seemed to make the ground shake. The wind was whipping the trees around and the branches were cracking as if they were whips. No, today was a day that was best spent inside with family and friends. He also had more work that he needed to do.
First and foremost he needed to re-dress Legolas’ arm and try and persuade the stubborn Prince to let him look him over properly. That would be a battle and he may not win it the first time around, but he would persevere and get there in the end.
He smiled to those that had gathered in the small chamber. Erestor and Glorfindel were already deep in a conversation, more like an argument, as was their normal state of affairs. Elladan and Elrohir were ribbing Estel about the state of his hair and saying that he needed a haircut badly. They had even offered to do the job themselves. Estel’s answer was a disbelieving snort. Let them at his hair? Not likely! He would like some left on his head when the haircut was over.
There was one glaring omission. Legolas was not in the chamber and had not been anywhere near, if he read the signs properly.
“Where is Legolas?” He kept his voice calm and curious.
“He was still sleeping, Ada, and looked so peaceful that I did not have the heart to wake him.” Estel answered, scowling at his brothers.
“He took the sleeping potion?” Elrond was pleased and surprised. Normally it was a fight to the death to get Legolas to take any potions or herbs no matter how much he needed them.
“Aye, the goblet was empty.” Estel sounded pleased as well.
“Good, the sleep will do him good. He can eat later. I just want to let all of you know that we will be having some visitors. Mithrandir will be here within the next few days and your Grandparents will be arriving some time later this week.”
“Will they be bringing Arwen with them?” Elrohir’s voice held hope, it had been some time since they had last seen their sister.
“I do not think so, although they did not say. Also, I want one of us with Legolas at all times during the day, I do not believe that he is feeling as well as he would have us believe. I do not want another episode like he had yesterday, especially not when he is alone and we cannot help him.”
“That would be a good idea. He was very frightened yesterday and so was I. I have never seen him like that before.” Elladan spoke as he spread some butter and honey over the bread he had placed on his platter.
Estel spoke. “You are even scared of the storm. Look at you!” As Elladan had spoken a large flash was followed by an incredible rumble of thunder. Elladan dropped the bread and ducked as if the storm could vent its fury on his head alone.
Even Elrond had to laugh at the sight of his eldest son acting like an Elfling scared of the lightning.
“So would you be if you had been awakened by the trees thumping against your window panes as if they were going break the glass all over you!” Elladan was whining and he knew it.
“Awwww, did the storm scare the baby Elfling?” Estel teased and laughter filled the chamber.
As the chamber door closed behind Estel, Legolas opened his eyes. He had heard his friend come in and had slowed his breathing and lay as if deeply asleep.Estel had fallen for the ruse and now he was alone in his chamber. This would give him the chance to have some time alone, some time that could be put to good use.
Rising, he dressed swiftly and instead of crossing to the door and leaving that way, he opened the window. The wind caused his hair to whip around his face, though he ignored it. The rain hit his face and he laughed, but it was a low sinister rumble that none of his friends would have recognized.
Moving swiftly, he jumped up onto the window sill and pushed his way out of the aperture and onto one of the trees limbs. He always had this chamber when he visited Imladris. Normally, the tree that stood outside was his friend and they would converse long and intensely, much to the Noldor Elves’ amusement. But not this day. This day he was not here to talk.
The tree tried to move away from under his feet as he traversed its length. It failed as Legolas compensated and moved with the limb. Down the tree he made his way until he was on terra firma.
Once upright, he made his way out of the main part of Imladris and into the woods that surrounded it. He was looking for one thing in particular. Walking purposefully, he made for a small thicket as if he knew he had to meet someone there. When he reached the thicket that consisted of barbed bushes that normally would have cut into his flesh. This time however, they moved apart to allow him entrance without pre-amble, he did not even pause, just entered the thicket beside him without thought.
He moved out of the rain, which he had ignored entirely, even without a cloak and being soaked to the skin. He made his way under the small rocky overhang, far too small to be called a cave.
Old tattered webbing swung in the breeze, very old. The cave had a musty smell to it. The fact that the overhang had not been used in a long time was without dispute. This would be perfect and he could use this well.
Piled in the center of the shelter of the overhang, protected from the rain, was a pile of freshly killed birds. A strange smile spread across Legolas’ face. Yes, this would be perfect. His black eyes gleamed with hunger as he moved to the pile and reached eagerly for the topmost carcass….
Blinking awake, Legolas yawned and stretched. The dull pain from the bruise on his side brought him to full wakefulness. The pain was beginning to throb almost constantly now, starting the minute he stretched this morning.
Lightning flashed followed by an incredible boom of thunder and to his surprise Legolas realized that he would need to light a candle, even though it had to be about mid-morning, He had slept far better than he had expected to, obviously the sleeping herbs had been slightly stronger than they were normally. He would not put it past Elrond with his propensity to drug everyone whom he thought needed it.
Moving gingerly, he rose from the bed, feeling wet and sticky. He looked down and froze. He was fully dressed. When had he dressed? He had changed to his nightwear the night before, he was positive he had. And wet? Why would he be soaking wet? Even his hair was plastered to his head.
This was beginning to scare him more than he cared to admit. But what could he say to the others? I woke up dressed? It could be a simple explanation. No, he would watch this for now and if necessary talk with either Elrond or better yet, Glorfindel later on. Glorfindel would not automatically think of the worst scenario, healing wise, that was.
Reaching for the flint, he made ready to light the candle as the chamber was illuminated once more. As he struck the stone against the flint, he was struck by another sharper twinge from his side and he dropped both the flint and the stone. The pain had lessened, but it did not leave completely. He bent to pick the stones up and quickly lit the candle. The soft light illuminated the chamber.
Legolas sighed, he really needed to have a bath and wash his hair, it was beginning to irritate him and he could not leave it as it was. He also needed to clean his mouth. The taste was absolutely disgusting this morning. It must be the remainder of the bitter taste from the tea.
He made his way to the bath chamber and rapidly stripped off his wet and soiled clothing as the water ran into his bath creating a steam cloud around him. He did stop to look at his side, where the bruise was spreading and deepening at an alarming rate. What could be causing this as well? He must have caught himself quite hard at some point. It would heal. He would get some Arnica later, that would help to heal it.
It was as he was rising to stand and make his way over to the bath that he caught sight of himself in the mirror. He blanched and without pausing to even think, ran to the stone commode as his stomach rebelled at what he saw reflected back. His face had been snow white, with thick dark rings under his eyes. But that was not made his vomit. No, that had been caused by what looked like blood that had dried around his mouth and down his chin.
When he had finally finished retching, he sank to his knees, exhausted. Taking deep breaths before he raised his head he caught sight of the fluid in the commode. It looked to be old, clotted blood. He blanched once more and began retching again. Shaking once he had finished, he reached for the water jug that always stood beside the commode and washed the contents away without looking at it. Once that was done he crawled to the bath and washed his face frantically with a pristine white cloth.
It did not stay white for long and it only served to confirm Legolas’ suspicions. It was blood. His heart thumping, he slumped against the bath. Why would he be vomiting blood? Pure blood? Yes it had happened on the journey, or at least the latter stages of the journey to Imladris. But it had stopped. Why would it start again?
Legolas was trembling, shaking hard. Reaction, he told himself. He knew he should seek out Elrond. Knew he should speak with a healer, but he was too frightened, too scared at what they would find. He snorted to himself with contempt at that thought. He was the Crown Prince of Mirkwood and one of her greatest warriors. He had faced more Orcs and spiders than most beings even knew existed. He had even been to Dol Guldur, for Valar’s sake, to check out the growing darkness there. And he was afraid of seeing a Healer! He needed to pull himself together and get begin to deal with this.
First, a bath. He was in dire need of a bath. He threw the reddened cloth away from him. He would burn it later. There was no way it could be salvaged. He rose on shaky legs and lowered himself into the steaming water.
A sigh of relief escaped him as the warmth spread across his long limbs and he sank back to soak. He had not removed the bandages from his arm, to be honest he had not even given it a single thought, it simply did not hurt him.
The bath helped with his aching limbs and even the pain in his side had eased a little by the time he had dried and cleaned out his mouth. Altogether, he felt a different Elf when he had finished his ablutions.
He was dressed in clean, house robes. It was obvious by the on-going storm that they would not be leaving the Last Homely House today. The wet weather was not going to be passing. Still, another day of rest would do him well.
He had just begun to dry his hair when there was a knock on the door.
“Come in.” He did not turn, it had to be one of four persons, after all.
“Ah, Legolas you are awake. Good, I need to…. What are you doing?” Elrond stopped talking as he realized what Legolas was doing in front of him.
“Brushing my hair, why?” Legolas blinked in surprise at the Lord of Imladris. What an odd question.
“Do you recall our conversation yesterday at all?” Elrond was frowning as he crossed and took the brush from the startled Prince.
“No, what conversation?” Legolas turned startled blue eyes to look into grey.
“About not using your arm? About letting others wash and braid your hair for you?” Elrond had started to do just that, brush and braid his hair.
“No, when did we have this conversation?” Legolas could have groaned. Not more missing time!
“After I dressed it for you, but you were a little distracted. I do not want you using your arm for the time being, rest it, it is badly infected and needs to heal. You have bathed this morning?” Elrond always found braiding hair soothing. He still loved doing this for his sons, when and if they let him.
“Yes, I had a nice bath.” Legolas could not say why he did not mention all the things that were worrying him. Something just seemed to stop him.
“Did you remove the bandage?” It was asked oh so casually.
“No. Should I?” Perhaps he should have done.
“Ideally yes, but it is not a worry as I want to take you to the House of Healing and look at you properly.” Elrond was watching him closely as he was braiding the bright hair.
“Good, I am well though.” Legolas hurried to reassure him.
“Legolas, you are far from fine, Penneth. Look at you, you have thicker rings under your eyes than when you reached Imladris. You are still losing weight. Oh yes, I have noticed that continuing trend! I have never seen an Elf so white before. Let me look you over and reassure myself?” Elrond put all his sincerity into his voice and for a long moment he thought Legolas was going to waver and say yes to his question.
“There is no need, Hir Elrond. I am perfectly well apart from my arm. You yourself has said that it is badly infected. Is it any wonder I am pale and losing weight? Would they not be part of that infection?”
Elrond could have used some very colorful Dwarvish swear-words that would have stunned his sons had they been here to hear it. Yes, Legolas had spent far too many times in the Halls of Healing if he was able to put his knowledge to such good use. Elrond did not have a leg to stand on. How could he ask to check Legolas over now?
“Yes, it would. Very well, I will leave this for now, but if you have not improved within a few days I will insist on completely checking you over, is that understood?” He raised his eyebrow at Legolas.
Legolas smiled at him and agreed. “Of course, Hir-nin.” He could have broken into laughter. He had won!
His words made Elrond groan with frustration. “How many times have I asked you to call me Elrond? Come with me and I will see to your arm.”
“Many times, Hir-nin. It will sink in eventually, Elrond.” The twinkle in those blue eyes was a joy to behold and Elrond realized that he was being made the subject of a joke.
“You may laugh now, Legolas but I will get my own back! When you least expect it as well. Are you hungry?”
They left Legolas’ chamber. Candles had been lit in the corridors and the windows had been shuttered against the wind and rain.
“No, not at present. I ate a lot last night.” There was a faint tinge of embarrassment on the pale cheeks.
“Yes, I was pleased and not a little surprised to see you eating so well. Still, by the time I have seen to your arm it will be time for the noon day meal. Try and eat something then for me.” Elrond led the way to the interconnecting door way that led to a small covered hallway for use in just such weather for getting to the healing wing.
Legolas had to swallow thickly as his stomach lurched at the thought of even trying to eat. He did not think he could even bear the thought of putting anything in his mouth, let alone swallow it.
“I will try. “ Was his non-committal reply.
Elrond said nothing more as they reached the Halls of Healing. Even with the darkness that surrounded Imladris at present, the halls were large and airy. Candles had been lit and illuminated the large chamber as if it was normal daylight.
“It is a nasty storm that we are having.” Legolas commented as he was led over to a chair and made to sit down.
“Yes, but it will clear the air and we will benefit from it. Take off your tunic and undershirt while I gather my equipment.” Elrond headed off to his store room to get plenty of Athelas so that he could both wash and dress the wound.
Legolas almost did as he had been asked. But he did not remove either his tunic or his under-tunic. He just removed his arm from the sleeve and let the tunic hang down around his waist.
Elrond returned, with Glorfindel in tow.
“Glorfindel will need to help me.” Elrond was already beginning to set out the herbs and bowls.
“Good morning, Glorfindel.” Legolas greeted him cheerfully enough.
“Good morning, Legolas. How are you this morning?” Glorfindel searched the Prince’s face, noting how drawn and tired he still looked.
“Better, hannon-le. I slept very well. What are Elladan, Elrohir and Estel doing this fine warm day?” The latter was said very tongue-in-cheek.
“They are in the library finishing their work. They will join us for the noon-day meal. I am glad you slept, you obviously needed it. Elrond, shall I take the old bandage off for you?” Glorfindel looked over at his friend.
“Yes please, I just need to wash my hands and then I can begin.” Elrond suited actions to his words as Legolas watched him.
He ignored Glorfindel as he began to unwind the soiled cloth. He again had the bored look on his face that he had worn the day before.
“How is Thranduil? You said that matters had changed in Mirkwood?” Elrond asked as he walked back to start dealing with the wound.
“Yes, the Orcs and spiders have become more widespread and as I said yesterday the spiders have grown far more intelligent. It is odd.” He broke off as Glorfindel gave a shocked gasp and looked down. He did not even blink, just looked away.
Elrond and Glorfindel though were another matter altogether. The wound was larger than it was yesterday. Wider and longer, deeper also, if Elrond had to take a guess. The black had spread as well.
“Are you positive that you have no pain?” Elrond hurriedly washed the wound. The smell was a little overpowering. He leaned over so that he could take a good look at the wound. As he did, Legolas turned towards him and answered him. Elrond could have sworn that he smelt blood on Legolas, but then it was gone. It had to have been from the wound.
“No, it does not hurt at all. It did at first but not at all now. It will heal.” The last was said with complete indifference.
“I will re-iterate what I said in your chamber. I do not want you to use that arm at all. I will be immobilizing it. This will need dressing twice a day.” It took both Elf Lords to deal with the wound, but soon it was re-dressed and Legolas slipped on his top.
“Good, we will meet for the noon meal in fifteen minutes.” Elrond tied the sling in place around his chest so that Legolas could not use his arm without taking it out deliberately.
“I have a present for Estel, I just need to get it from my chamber and I will meet you there.” Legolas stood from the chair but stopped as the chamber spun dizzily. Neither Elrond nor Glorfindel noticed.
“Good, we will see you in a while then.” Legolas left the chamber to go back to his own. Glorfindel watched him leave. “The wound is bad.”
“Yes and getting worse. We will need to keep a close eye on both it and Legolas. Come, Let us go and join our family.” Elrond was troubled as he left the Halls of Healing.
Legolas shut the door to his chambers with a sigh. He was relieved to be away from the seemingly incessant questions. He knew that Elrond and Glorfindel meant well, but it was wearing.
He crossed to the dresser and removed the present he had had commissioned for Estel for his begetting day. He caught sight of his reflection as he rested it on the top of the dresser.
His eyes suddenly flashed from blue to black and he grinned at his reflection. It was a dark grin.
Moving swiftly he crossed to the wardrobe and took out one of his long knifes and still grinning he left the chamber and then crossed to the front door and opened it. Crossing the threshold he closed it behind him before heading off into the rain.
All was quiet, apart from the booming thunder and there was nothing to mark Legolas’ passing as he vanished into the falling rain, a mad grin plastered on his face….
To be continued