Chapter One

The weather was glorious, it was mid autumn and all the trees were getting ready for their winter sleep. Once green leaves were now browns and reds; in a glorious show of riotous colour that only nature could achieve. The sun hung low in the sky as birds made their way to the South and their winter bedding grounds.

Squirrels could be seen once in a while gathering nuts to hide in their caches so that they could survive the winter. Mice had begun to make their nests so that they too could curl up and sleep as much as they could during the long cold snap that all of the animals knew would be ahead.

Holly had burst forth, its leaves a vibrant green in contrast to the deep red berries that went along with it. Indeed all of the winter brushes hung laden with their fruits to aid the wild life, more so than they had done for some years.

The air was cold and crisp in all it was a perfect winter scene. It was broken by the clip clop of horses as they made their way along the dirt road.

Into sight came a group of horses along with their riders. It was a large group; some of them wore the deep greens and browns that would blend them in well with any of their surroundings. Four wore greys and blacks, while one wore grey along with a big wide hat.

The riders wearing the greens and browns, travelled alongside a medium sized carriage. All were on the alert; it was dangerous to travel this road at this time of the year. Wargs and wolves would not hesitate to attack an unwary traveller. Not that these were, of course.

Inside the carriage three Elves sat. Two had dark hair and were extremely fair. The other had long blond hair and could only be called beautiful. He was also looking exhausted, piled up in blankets to keep him warm. His skin tone was that of some one recovering from a long illness or injury.

�We will stop soon, Legolas.� The Elf on the right broke the silence.

�T� thank y�you.� The blond closed his eyes trying to stop the pounding that seemed to have taken up residence behind his eyes.

�I think we should stop know, Elrond. Legolas is exhausted and in pain.� The elf on the left had a worried look on his proud face.

�You are right; this would be the best time to stop for the day. There is an enclosed area near by that would provide good shelter.� Elrond, Lord of Rivendell stood and leaning carefully out of the carriage window caught the others attention and soon they were drawing to a halt.

Some of the guards made themselves busy collecting fire wood for the fire and soon it was crackling merrily in the clearing.

Two identical Elves and a human made their way from the camp, bows at the ready, searching for fresh meat that would serve as their evening meal.

Legolas, Prince of Mirkwood was helped from the carriage by his father Thranduil, King of that Realm and Elrond. It took a few very unsteady steps but soon he was being helped to sit on the blankets provided for him by the fire.

Elrond swiftly made use of the fire to warm some water and once it was in a goblet he added the herbs and watched as they dissolved before handed it to Legolas. Both King and Lord watched as he took the tea on board.

Once finished he sighed and would have leaned back, if he had anything to lean against. Thranduil slipped in behind him and let his exhausted son relax into him.

They had been travelling a week now and it was getting to be harder for Legolas to hide his pain. As much as he hated travelling in the carriage, his heart told him that he was no where fit enough to sit upon his own horse, how ever much he wished it.

A shaky hand reached up to brush a stray hair from his face. Hair that while still glorious even in this light, was a little choppy in places. Ordinarily he would have been very upset at that and by the teasing of his friends. But for the minute he really did not care.

Thranduil looked down at his pale son with worry. They had all know Legolas would find the trip uncomfortable, but he still did not have to like it. Legolas had been targeted by Elrond�s mad Cousin not too long ago and he was still recovering from the numerous injuries that he had received as a consequence of seeing something he should not have seen.

The worst of these injuries had been a bad fracture to his skull and he had to be operated on twice to remove old blood, clots and serous fluid that had gathered as a result. The pressure had caused Legolas to have fits and had worried his father more than he cared to admit. The pressure had left Legolas with a lingering weakness on his left side and problems with his speech.

He also had begun suffering from increasing headaches as he travelled back to his home.

�Sleep, Ion-nin, I will waken you when it is time to eat.� Thranduil gently stroked the hair that was a lasting legacy from his wife. It was not long before Legolas had relaxed totally against him eyes closed in sleep.

It always worried him to see Legolas sleeping with his eyes closed. He knew Legolas was still recovering, but he still worried. He sought Elrond�s eyes once more needing the reassurance from his old friend.

�He is doing well, Thranduil. It is still early days in his recovery.� He moved beside them and as Legolas was sleeping he began to gently massage the tense muscles.

Around them the camp was being set up ready for the night, Glorfindel and Mithrandir, the wizard keeping a close eye on the activities in the camp but also on the area around them.

The twins, Elladan and Elrohir arrived back in the camp with a brace of rabbits each. Along with then came the human, Estel their foster brother. As the twins moved towards the fire and began to prepare the rabbits for the stew pot, Estel moved to his foster father�s side.

�It is all clear near by, Ada I could find no new evidence of either Wargs or Wolves. Is Legolas alright?� He was worried about his best friend; he looked so pale and tired. He hated to see his usually robust best friend looking so weak.

�He is just tired, Estel. He has had some herbs for the pain. I will let him sleep until the meal is ready. I do not want him missing any meals at the moment.� Legolas had lost a lot of much needed weight in the first few weeks of his initial recovery and he was only now beginning to regain it. Always on the thin side, now he was painfully thin.

�He is finding it hard, is he not?� Estel found he did not want to leave Legolas� side.

�Yes, although I think he understands now why we insisted on him having the carriage.� That caused rueful looks from both man and elf.

�I found some fresh Athelas while we were hunting. Do you need me to pick some for you?� Estel watched as his father finished massaging Legolas� legs and sat back. Picking up the pack that contained all of his herbs and roots for healing, he looked through it.

�That would be a good idea, fresh Athelas is better than dried. Do not go on your own.� Elrond watched as Estel made his way over to his foster brothers and helped them to finish skinning and boning the rabbits. They added them to the pot along with the vegetables they had brought with them. With a wave to their father they left the pot to simmer and left the camp to find and collect the Athelas they had found earlier.

It was just becoming dusk when the food was ready. Thranduil woke Legolas and he watched critically as his son played with his food.

�You need to eat that, Legolas.� Elrond looked up at his friend at these words, from across the fire.

�T� tired.� Legolas raised laden eyes to peer at his father.

�I know, Ion-nin, but you need to eat to keep your strength up. I promise you can sleep all you want once you have eaten.� Both he and Elrond watched him closely as he shakily ate his portion. It was difficult though as he found his hand was shaking almost uncontrollably.

When they were satisfied that he had eaten most of the stew they let him lay down and sleep. The watches were quickly assigned and they all settled for the night. Estel had drawn the first watch along with one of Thranduil�s guards.

All was silent for some time until the first howl was heard. It echoed eerily in the night air. Both kept their hand on their swords, silent and still. They only relaxed when no more howls came.

Just before their watch finished Estel made certain that the fire was built enough to last. He knew that at present Legolas was feeling the cold. He crossed to his friend�s side to check him. He was fast asleep, shivering slightly. Standing he crossed to the carriage and retrieved one of the blankets that was spare. He gently tucked it around Legolas. Standing he found the guard looking at him with approval.

Estel shrugged, embarrassed at having been caught caring for his friend. Waking Mithrandir the other woke Glorfindel and they bedded down.

Dawn broke if it could be called that. In direct contrast to yesterday the day was dull and overcast, dark clouds threatening rain. They moved quickly to eat and then de camp.

Within an hour of waking they were on their way once more.

By mid morning the rain was teeming down and it was decided that they should find shelter until it had passed. They found a large open cave that would provide perfect shelter. It also held a number of broken branches and bracken that would serve as kindling for the fire. It was soon set up and they settled in to wait.

Legolas slept once more. As close to the fire as they felt was comfortable for him. The deluge did not let up and they settled in for the day.

Elrond over saw Legolas� exercises and massage when he woke up and also continued with his work on his speech. Their evening meal was sparse and once again they set the watches.

This time the howls from the Wolves were numerous and sounded to be nearby. Every one was on their guard, although to their relief the night passed without incident.

The next morning broke fair and although the ground was still wet and muddy they made good time. Stopping once for a light meal and so that Legolas could have a rest. Taking advantage Estel and the twins went off hunting, bringing back a deer that would do nicely for the evening meal.

For Legolas, though the day was long and painful. He was cold, more cold than he could ever remember being in his life. It did not matter how many blankets he had over him, he felt a deep chill, almost as if�

Legolas gave him self a little shake. He was imagining things. He was cold, sore and tired. He was also very well protected, nothing would harm him here. So why in all of Arda think he was being watched? Why did the hairs on the nape of his neck stand up? And why did the trees scream their warnings at him like they did?

He glanced surreptitiously at his father to see if he was affected as well, but his father was sitting comfortably chatting with Elrond. If any one else could hear the trees it would be his father.

The feeling grew as the day went on until he was constantly shivering under the blankets. Not only were the trees screaming at him, but every fibre of his body screamed danger. It was an instinct that he relied on and never failed.

He glanced out of the window catching sight of his father�s guards. They seemed relaxed as well. Perhaps it was his imagination.

Thranduil looked up from across the carriage and noticed that his son was shivering almost uncontrollably. He was also parchment white.

�Are you alright, Legolas?� He made his way over to sit next to him.

Startled blue eyes turned to him. Thranduil felt Elrond move in beside him.

�D� danger.� He kept his eyes on his father as Elrond felt his forehead.

�What danger, Legolas?� Thranduil was as puzzled as Elrond.

�T� twees s� say d� danger.� The shivering increased.

�Legolas, I do not feel�� he broke off and realised suddenly just what Legolas was talking about.

Moving with Elven speed he made his way out of the carriage, startling the driver.

�There is danger ahead. Brolinth I want you and Selend to scout ahead. The trees are screaming danger. Be on alert.� The two guards quickly carried out their King�s commands. There places were filled by the twins while Estel and Glorfindel rode on slightly ahead of the group. All senses were on the alert.

Back in the carriage, Thranduil was rubbing Legolas� cold pale hands. Elrond had brought out more blankets from under the seats and had covered the shivering Prince with even more. They did not appear to help.

Eventually Thranduil pulled his son to him and used his own body heat to help. Legolas� eyes had just closed in sleep when growls, screams and loud whinnying could be heard from ahead of them. Thranduil could hear the sounds of both swords and bows being drawn.

Estel�s voice could be heard calling �Orcs!� then the sound of metal clashing against metal.

With faces set in grim masks, the two Lord�s with drew their own weapons from their scabbards in readiness.

And then they were in the thick of the fighting. Horses screamed as their masters tried to continue their protective duty around the carriage. They were heavily out numbered, but that mattered not to the Elves and human. What mattered to them was keeping their friends and royalty safe.

The fighting was fierce and Thranduil could see the fighting from where he hovered protectively above Legolas. The tide was finally beginning to go in their favour. Orcs after all can not be called overtly intelligent in fact they were quiet the opposite.

The fight was just entering it�s finally stages with the leader being struck down by Glorfindel when the door to the carriage was opened from the other side.

The few Orcs that remained standing and fighting froze at seeing their leader decapitated and with one glance at each other turned on their heals and ran for their lives. They did not get far before they were cut down in their strides. As cruel as it may seem to the onlooker there is no love lost between Elf and Orc.

Especially with theses Elves.

It was then that a high pitched scream was heard coming from the carriage behind them. Estel and Glorfindel turned and hurried to the door, Estel pulled it open only to draw back in horror at the sight that greeted him.

Chapter Two

For one long second Estel could not move. All he could do was stare at the gruesome head as it rolled out of the carriage and onto the ground in front of him.

Finally able to look up he noticed that the carriage was in complete disarray. His father still held his sword in his hand; it was covered in the thick black blood that belonged to Orcs. Thranduil was slouched half covering Legolas, a big long slash down his right arm.

Legolas, blue eyes wide was staring in shock at his father. �A� Ada?�

�I am well, Legolas. Did it get you?� He could already feel the burning that came from the poison that the Orcs liked to smear their blades with. All he could do was shudder at the thought of what could happen if Legolas were poisoned, in his current weakened status it could in all likelihood prove to be fatal.

�N� No. Y� You.� A tentative hand reached shakily for the King�s right arm.

�It is just a scratch. Do not worry.� He tried to smile in reassurance but felt the earth beneath him spin.

�Thranduil? Let me see.� Elrond was by his side.

�Later, we need to get away from here in case there are more. The carcases will bring out the Wolves before long.� He watched as Glorfindel and Estel pulled the corpse out of the small enclosed space. It left a slimy black trail behind it.

�We will carry on, but only until we are out of range of this. We need to look at you and Legolas and I need to change.� The carriage was covered in the foul substance as was its occupants.

�Who screamed?� Elladan and Elrohir had arrived by this time.

�The Orc. It tried to get to Legolas. Thranduil stopped it by stepping in front of it. I stabbed it and it screamed. I have never heard a sound like that before. It was inhuman.� Elrond was cleaning his sword prior to putting it back.

�Why would it target Legolas?� Elladan sounded as confused as Estel felt.

�That I do not know, but for know we need to move from here. Did we take any injuries?� Elrond had not taken his eyes off of his friend. He looked far too pale for his liking, as did Legolas now he thought on it.

�Yes, Two dead and only a few minor injuries.� Elrohir was cleaning his sword as they talked.

Elrond was about to make another comment when a faltering voice broke the silence.

�N� need to g� go.�

Elrond turned to Legolas. �Why, what do you sense?�

�Tw� twees s�says go. M� more c�coming.�

They knew all too well that the warning was genuine. All Wood Elves were in tune with the trees around them and nature as well. If he had been given a warning they would heed it.

It took a few minutes to clean the area around them up. The dead were seen to and would be taken with them until they found a suitable place for them to be buried. Then they were on their way.

They had been riding for just a little over twenty minutes when they heard the screams and roaring behind them. The twins gave each other rueful glances. Legolas had been right again, not that they had doubted him.

They carried on until they had put as much distance as they could between them and the battle sight. At Elrond�s insistence they stopped so that they could all rest and he could treat Thranduil.

This time Estel and Elladan helped Legolas from the carriage. The young Prince was shaking with exhaustion and if it had not been for his friends, he would have fallen flat on his face as they walked to where the guards were setting up the fire. They all knew that Legolas was really feeling the bite of the elements.

Estel made certain his friend was sitting comfortably before sitting close behind him. Taking him in his arms he pulled him in so that Legolas could share his body heat until the fire had warmed up.

�Is that any better, Mellon-nin?� He smiled down at Legolas.

�T� thank you.�

�You are more than welcome.� They watched as Thranduil was led across the clearing. He looked very pale and as shaky as his son.

Elrond made certain that he was sitting as close as he could get him to Legolas. He crossed once more to the carriage and retrieved his herb pack. Elrohir already had water healing he noted with approval.

Sitting down beside his friend, Elrond gently rolled the sleeve up to reveal the long jagged, bloody wound. He heard Legolas gasp as they all got a good look at it for the first time. He had to admit he agreed with Legolas at this point.

The skin around the edges of the wound was that telling black colour. Elrond reached out to put the back of his wrist against the King�s brow; it was hot to the touch.

�When were you going to let me in on this?� Elrond did his eyebrow work out.

�We had to get away, this is nothing.� Thranduil shrugged his friends concern off.

�This is nothing?! You are as bad as Legolas. This is not �nothing�. It is poisoned, be thankful that it bled sufficiently that a large portion of the poison did not reach your system.� Elrond glared at his friend as he cleaned the wound. Mixing some Athelas to a little water, Elladan handed the paste to his father who applied it to the wound.

Elrond then mixed some herbs for both Thranduil and Legolas to drink. The glower warned both of them against arguing and they drank their medicine as they had been bidden.

As Selend made their dinner, Elrond helped Legolas change into clothes that were not blood splattered and washed the blood off of his face and hands, before doing the same to him self. Thranduil had already changed by the time they had finished and had taken Legolas from Estel so that he could clean his own minor wounds.

�How are you feeling, Ion-nin?� Thranduil had to smile as Legolas relaxed back against him with a sigh.

�T� tired.� Legolas followed this up with a wide yawn.

�Stay awake for a while, you need to eat.� He looked up to where some of his guards were cleaning the carriage of Orc blood. He could not stop his own shudder as he recalled just how close he had come to loosing his beloved son once more.

�A� Ada a�alright?� The intense blue eyes were watching him, worried.

�I am well, Legolas have no fear.� An unusually cold pale hand reached up to his face.

�H� hot.�

�I know it will ease once Elrond�s tea begins to work.� He placed Legolas� hand back under the blanket. He hated to see how much Legolas had been affected by his head injury. He wished that he could take his frustration out on the Elf responsible, but that was out of his hands now.

�H� hurts?� Legolas could not hide his worry from his father.

�A little, but not too much. How about you? Does your head ache?� Thranduil hugged his son to him.

�A l�little.� Thranduil knew only too well what that meant. For Legolas to admit to being in pain it meant he was in a lot of pain.

�Rest, Penneth it will ease soon.� Thranduil heard Legolas sigh as he watched the activities of those around the camp.

The Elves and human gathered around the camp fire as the meal was ready, all hungry after the fight. Thranduil had to help Legolas this time, his hands were shaking just too much for him to manage it unaided. Even then he only managed a little, much to Thranduil�s worry.

After a short rest they carried on with their journey. Legolas lay in Thranduil�s arms as they made their way on towards Mirkwood. Not long after they had started Legolas fell asleep once more. Thranduil knew all to well why Legolas was sleeping so much, but he did not have to like it. He was used to Legolas bouncing around with boundless energy and enthusiasm for everything he did.

Legolas slept on until well after they had stopped for the night. Rather than move him and chance waking him, they decided to leave him in the carriage. They were as quiet as they could be around the camp site as they readied themselves for the night.

Soon another fire was crackling away with diner simmering in the pot. Their bedding had been readied as well. With Legolas� as near to the fire as it was possible to be.

They had to wake him to eat, even then he looked worn out and pale. Elrond kept a close eye on him as he managed a few bites of his food.

�How are you feeling, Legolas? I can see that you are still tired. Is your head still bad?� That had been one of the lingering problems with the Prince, debilitating headaches.

�Y� yes. S� sore. F� full.� He glowered at his father who was trying to feed him more of the stew.

�You have had three spoonfuls that is not enough.� The glower darkened.

�Your Adar is right Legolas that is not enough. Have at least a few more bites.� Elrond put in his two pennies worth.

Estel, across the fire, had to hide his smile at his friend. It had looked as if for a short while Legolas would put the spoon of food to another use until sanity prevailed and he did as requested.

The night was peaceful and was spent with Mithrandir regaling them all with tales of the Perinnath from the dales. Thranduil added his two pennyworths as he too told the others about his own encounter with the halfling Bilbo Baggins. Legolas had heard this tale many times, but still loved to hear it.

He hoped that one day; he too would meet one of these wonderful sounding beings. He sat watching as Mithrandir used some of his precious pipe weed, glad that he was down wind of the foul smelling substance. How someone could enjoy the noxious mixture he did not know. But he watched with fascination the creatures Mithrandir created with the smoke. Looking around he realised he was not the only one who found it fascinating.

It was not long before Elrond and Glorfindel were relaying all the pranks that Elladan and Elrohir had played as youngsters; Legolas was included in some of these tales, of course.

No one noticed at first that Legolas was asleep once more, cuddled against his father in an almost identical pose that he had used as an Elfling. One by one they settled down.

The next few days passed wearily, but uneventful for Legolas. The biggest worry for those around him was his lack of appetite. This was becoming of great concern to those around him. The weather luckily held fair with only a few light showers. They were also making good time.

Thranduil�s arm was healing well, Elrond had been thankful that they had found the fresh patch earlier as they were using it a lot, along with the other herbs for Legolas.

They were just beginning their second week of travelling when they chanced across a small village. By consensual agreement they broke off of their journey and spent the night in the small inn for the night. While it might be small it was neat and clean. The food was good and wholesome as well as warm.

They left after the morning meal the next morning having replenished their provisions so that they would have fresh fruit and vegetables until they reached the next village along their way.

It had helped Legolas as well; the short break and a nights sleep in a real bed rather than a bed roll. He seemed brighter that morning and had eaten a lot more than he had in a while.

Two days later they stopped for the night, it was over cast and all of them could smell the rain in the air and rather than sleep out in the elements the guards split and searched for a cave or something that would shade them from the rain.

Estel and Elladan went hunting for the evening meal, leaving Elrohir and Mithrandir to join Glorfindel in guarding the others. One of the parties soon found a shallow cave that would do nicely for the night and they waited for the others to return before heading for it. Along the way each of them gathered all the wood that they could find so that they could keep the fire going over night. Wet wood would not help.

No sooner had they moved Legolas into the cave the skies opened with a vengeance. The rain came down in sheets making visibility incredibly poor. Legolas watched as Mithrandir set about making the fire, while the rabbits that had been hunted were cleaned and made ready. He knew better than to ask if they needed help, he had done so once and had been met with an incredulous reaction.

He hated to be a burden on any one and at the moment that was what he was. He could not even stand with out aid. A goblet came into his range of sight and he looked up to see Elrond in front of him once more.

He took it with a sigh, he also hated these headaches. He had just lifted it up to his mouth when his hand shook, threatening to spill the herb tea. Elrond quickly moved to support him, steadying his hand so that he could drink it by him self.

�You are not a burden, Legolas. Not one of us believes that you are. You just need a little support at present. You will soon be back to what you were.� Legolas could not look the Elf Lord in the eyes. �You are still recovering, please let us help you?�

�S� Sorry.�

�You have nothing to be sorry for. Is your head any better?� Elrond was watching him closely.

�Y� yes.�

�Good, I want to know the minute you feel the pain coming back. You have no need to suffer. I will make sure that we have more than enough of the tea for you. �

Thranduil had finished his own chores and had returned to Legolas� side once again.

The night air was cold even with the shelter and Legolas found him self shivering uncontrollably. He was kept plied with hot teas all night. He slept that night wedged between his father and Elladan until the twin had to take over the watch. Estel took his place, then.

The morning dawned as grey and wet as the other. It was quickly decided that the best thing was for them to stay where they were as they had a suitable shelter. Glorfindel had slipped off to hunt once again.

He came back with enough meat to last for their next three meals. No sooner had he returned than they heard the plaintive howling of wolves. They were nearby as well.

By unspoken agreement they built the fire up higher, pleased at how their quick thinking yesterday had paid dividends as they had dry kindling and wood for the fire.

All during that long day they heard the Wolves howling and it seemed to be getting nearer each time. Thankfully, they were able to continue the next day as it dawned damp but no longer raining.

The mud on the trail made the journey hard and twice they had to stop to pull the carriage out of the mud. Legolas found him self wishing that the journey was over, this journey had been harder on him than he would ever have imagined.

Slowly though they gradually made their way nearer and nearer to home, to Mirkwood and safety.

The morning that they saw the trees of Mirkwood in the distance was a relief to all. It would be another week before they reached the safety of the palace, though.

They stopped that night in a little clearing that had a little stream that ran alongside it. The camp was soon set up and while every one sorted out their own chores and gathered the ingredients for their meal, Elrond massaged Legolas� cramping legs. Legolas him self was too weary to even put up a token resistance.

He could only manage a couple of bites of his food that night, all the weight he had been steadily gaining he was loosing again. Elrond had to constantly reassure Thranduil and his sons that this would settle down once again once Legolas was in his own home. It did not ease the worry he him self felt.

Once his father had finished his food Legolas spoke up.

�A.. Ada, n� need to g�go.� Legolas� pale face held a slight blush, embarrassed at having to ask for help in even the most intimate of actions. To the others amusement he would only let Thranduil help him.

They all watched as they disappeared behind the brushes in front of them. Long moments passed with only rustling heard.

Every one relaxed back, relief at the respite of riding.

A long low growl brought them all to attention. Elladan and Glorfindel by unspoken agreement stood and made their way into the bushes where Thranduil and Legolas had moved behind.

The growl was heard again. It was even more sinister if that was at all possible. Those left in the camp were on full alert, their senses reaching out to find the cause.

Sudden shouts alerted the others as did the sound of the undergrowth being shaken.

Estel burst in to view sword drawn and at the ready. He was followed by Thranduil, his arms full of his son, behind him was Glorfindel his sword stained with red blood.

Estel said only one word. �Wargs.�

�How many?� Elrond demanded.

�Three and hungry by the looks of them.� Estel�s eyes were still on the bushes. �We killed two of them.�

�Are you alright, Thranduil?� The King was looking down at the bundle in his arms. He looked up and their was such anguish in his eyes Elrond�s heart nearly stopped. He moved closer to his friend and as he neared he noticed the silver red blood on his friend�s hands.

�Legolas?� It was barely above a whisper from Elrohir.

Chapter Three

The minute the words left Elrohir�s mouth, Elrond was moving. Moving to Thranduil�s side he helped his friend to the fire and sat him down.

�What happened?� His tone was terse as he reached for the pack of herbs that were being used far too much lately.

�I was helping Legolas, as you know he is having a lot of problems with his balance.� Elrond nodded, this was also one of the side effects from Legolas� head injury had been an imbalance in his inner ear, along with the weakness to his left side.

�The Wargs came from no where, I ever even heard them they were so silent.� They could all hear his shock at this. �All I can say is that they were after Legolas, they took absolutely no notice of me. I tried to step in front of them, but they just moved around me. If it had not been for Glorfindel and Elladan he would have been dead. Estel killed two of them. Legolas lost his balance as I tried to distract them.�

Elrond had used his knife to cut the sleeve of Legolas� tunic and hissed as he saw the deep gash marks that marred the skin. He looked up at Thranduil and smiled in reassurance. �It looks worse than it actually is. They should heal quite quickly. Are you hurt?� He was already washing the wound with the hot water that Elrohir had passed him.

�No, as I say they were after Legolas. That is twice now that he has been targeted. I wonder why?� Thranduil could not hide his worry. He watched Elrond cover the wound with Athelas. To bind the wound he had to widen the slice in the cloth.

�At least it is the arm that is likely to have little feeling.� Elrond was trying to give all the reassurances he could.

�You mean he will not have as much pain?� Thranduil held his only child tight as he watched Elrond bandage the gashes.

�That is exactly right. Glorfindel are there any Wargs out there still?� He gently touched the Prince�s pale cold face.

�Not that I can see, but that does not mean they are not there, if Thranduil did not hear or sense them.� Not one of the guards had dropped their guard, including Estel, Glorfindel and Elladan.

�T� Twees.� Weary blue eyes had have opened, much to Elrond�s relief.

�You are safe, Legolas as is your father. What about the trees, Penneth?� Elrond could not resist brushing the pale hair from the pallid face.

�W� Wawning.� Legolas was struggling to tell him what they needed to know.

�I am sorry, Legolas but wha� Oh.� Understanding suddenly dawned. �They were warning you?�

A tiny nod was Elrond�s affirmative.

�Are they still warning you of the Wargs?� Elrond needed to know for the safety of all of those in the camp.

�N� No, g� gone.� Legolas was too tired to really explain.

�Good, Thranduil for tonight I do not want you leaving Legolas� side.� He watched the fine trembling rise in severity. �Come; move him closer to the fire.� He watched as Thranduil moved his son with Elrohir�s help, before piling the blankets up on him. Even so Thranduil could feel the tremors that wracked his son�s far too thin frame.

Elrond mean while was making two types of tea. One for infection and pain, which he knew the blond, was all too likely to be feeling and a plain tea just for the warmth. Handed the first goblet to Thranduil and he watched in silence as Legolas drained the goblet dry. He took the tea next before lying back and trying to relax.

It was not long before he was asleep. That night Elrond and Thranduil decided that it would be best to have three on each watch instead of two. They did not want to leave it to chance. Mithrandir had disappeared at some point into the bushes; they were not too bothered with this as the Maia had a tendency to do this.

There was more of a chill in the air the next morning as they prepared to break camp. Mirkwood was only a week away and they were all more than eager to arrive. Elrond had checked Legolas� arm redressing it before they helped him into the carriage.

Once Legolas was settled with a huge pile of blankets on top of him, Elrond returned to the fire. The last chore was filling the flask that Calenli, the head cook of Rivendell, had given him with the remnants of the morning tea. They would be making Legolas drink it at intervals to try and stave off the chill.

Nothing of note happened with the journey for the next few days. Legolas did not improve but then again he did not deteriorate. The head aches still plagued him and his arm had proven Elrond wrong for one of the few times in the last millennia. Legolas� arm caused him pain, a lot of pain. To the point that he would try anything to get out of moving it.

The only way Elrond could continue with the massages and exercises were when Legolas was either sleeping or drugged. Due to the severity of the pain in his head as well as his arm, the latter was happening more than the former. None of them was happy with this state of affairs.

It was a relief to all of them that they reached the outskirts of the forest that had once been named Greenwood but was know titled Mirkwood. They settled for the night all on the alert for the dark creatures that lurked within.

They set off early the next morning. All the Elves hard their senses on alert. They all knew too well just how things can go to hell within a heart beat.

Estel found him self shivering as the forest surrounded them. He always felt this way, this feeling of apprehension as the trees seemed to swallow them.

Mirkwood more than lived up to its name. Light tried desperately to shine through the blackened twisted limbs of even darker gnarled trees, only a few beams of light succeeded and it served to make the place even murkier as a result

Something suddenly hit him on the head and Estel twisted in his saddle, trying to find what it could be, his sword ready in his hand if necessary. Up in one of the dark branches sat a little black squirrel chattering its displeasure at being disturbed. He watched in amusement as it threw a shrivelled black acorn at Elladan, scoring a direct hit. He could only snigger at the look on his brother�s face.

They had stopped for the night in a little clearing close to what once would have been a pretty little stream. Legolas was shaking all the more, the darkness affecting him more than the others in his weakened condition.

The fire was welcome in the oppressive dark and they moved Legolas so that he sat as close to it as possible. There would be no fresh food this night, not that it worried Legolas, as his appetite was now practically none existent.

The night was an uneasy one and it seemed to pass slowly. Quite a number of times the guards on watch felt that they were being watched, but could find no signs of whom or what it might be.

They were all relieved to be moving once more. The further they moved into the forest the more oppressive the atmosphere a round them became. All were on edge and any rustling in the undergrowth was enough to have them looking in to it.

The second night for Legolas was hard. He could hear and feel the trees distress around him and wished he could go and give them comfort but that was impossible. Just getting to them would be an effort and he did not think the others would help him.

So he sat, huddled in his blanket as the others set up camp around the fire, trying to comfort them as best he could.

It was Estel who noticed his friend�s distraction. �Legolas, Mellon-nin what is wrong.�

Legolas turned his head back from the trees and looked at his best friend. �T� Twees.�

Just that one word and the group were instantly at the ready with both bows and swords drawn.

Legolas could only blink at this. �S�sad. C� Cwying.�

It was the turn of the others to blink as they lowered their weapons of choice. Thranduil sat beside his son before asking. �What is wrong with the trees, Ion-nin?�

�S� Sad. I� in p� pain. H� hurts.� Legolas turned his big blue, worried eyes to his father.

Thranduil could only smile at that. All Wood Elves could commune with the trees that were about them, but Legolas had a little more empathy. It had been evident soon after his birth that Legolas had a much deeper connection with the forest around him.

�Would you like me to help you over to them?� Thranduil could guess what was going through his son�s mind.

The smile, weak and wobbly as it was, was heart warming. With help from Estel they managed to get him to the trees, with the admonishment from an amused Elrond. He could only shake his head with fondness. Tree Elves!

Once he had reached the trees, Legolas lay his palm against the one before him and closed his eyes. He listened to the tree, understood its feeling of anguish as it was slowly being changed from the vibrant green tree it had once been. It also lamented the fact the no Elves came to visit it anymore.

Legolas poured as much love as he could into the tree. Letting it know it had not been forgotten and was still loved.

By the time he had finished the tree seemed happier and was singing slightly to the skies. It was an extremely happy, exhausted Legolas who was helped back to the fire. Elrond handed him a hot goblet of tea, he was shaking so badly that Thranduil had to help him hold for fear of scolding him self.

Night had fallen and the camp had settled down to rest. Thranduil could not rest. He lay next to his son; the sight of Legolas� eyes being closed still shocked him. Some thing was wrong but he did not know what.

The first watch had just finished and Estel and Elladan made their way to their bedding, when Legolas� eyed popped open. He reached for his father with urgency. �A� Ada, S� Spiders.�

Within seconds they were ready, swords drawn. Estel and Thranduil stood over Legolas ready to protect him; they had no time to get him to the safety of the carriage.

The group was large and very obviously hungry from the saliva that dripped from their fangs. There chatter was loud in the small space, their red eyes glinting evilly in the dark.

For a moment nothing moved, not Elf, Man or Beast. Then it began. The fight was vicious and short. One of Thranduil�s guards was stung by one of the beasts before Elladan buried his sword deep into one of its eyes. The screech the creature emitted made him wince as it hurt his delicate ears, and then it crashed to the floor, dead. Unfortunately it also trapped the poor Elf beneath it.

Thranduil and Estel were able to keep the creatures away from the Prince. It was a hard task as the main target was once again Legolas and quite a few of the spiders tried to reach him.

Legolas could only watch wide eyed as the attack continued. He could do nothing to help and he hated it. At the same time he gave thanks and praise to the tree that he had earlier communed with. It had been its warning that had alerted the camp. Never before had he seen spiders so silent .For the Elves not to hear them� It did not bare thinking about.

Rather aptly it was Thranduil who disposed of the last spider a look of satisfaction on his face clear for everyone to see. A quick check for injuries and they cleared the area of the carcasses.

The Elf that had been bitten by the spider was given the antidote. All of Mirkwood�s patrols carried the herbs, the risk of meeting spiders were high.

There was no more rest that night and the minute the grey morning began to rise they were on their way, eager to be away from the spot.

It was as the sun reached its feeble zenith that Mithrandir rejoined them. The deeply worried look on his face instantly catching every body�s attention.

�Mae Govannen, Mithrandir.� Thranduil smiled up at him as he brought his horse to trot beside the carriage.

�Well met, Thranduil. How is the Prince?� His eyed found Legolas� pale face. He was asleep once more.

�There has been no change. How did your searching go?� They were all intrigued as to where the Maia had suddenly disappeared to.

�It is as I feared the darkness is spreading further, Thranduil. There are Orcs a days ride away, a large army of them. But there are also spiders nearby, a lot of them. There are nests as well.�

�This is ill news that you bring, Mellon-nin.�

�I know, Thranduil and I am sorry, but I also met with a patrol and a scout has been sent ahead to warn the Palace of not only this but your arrival. I anticipate that we will be help should we need it. Gilaen said that as soon as they have seen to the spiders they will be joining us as extra protection for you and Legolas.� A wide grin split his ancient face. �But they did give me this.� He held up the sack that had been hanging from the saddle. It contained fresh venison. They would be having fresh food this night; it would be a break from the dried fruits and meat that they had been having since entering the forest.

They stopped for a short rest a little later, they all needed the respite. They made a small fire, they had left Legolas in the carriage to sleep, not one of them had the heart to wake him he looked so peaceful. Estel sat with him while Thranduil had his sparse meal and tea by the fire. They then reversed the procedure so that Estel could eat.

Legolas woke later that afternoon, feeling more refreshed for his long sleep. The hot tea helped once more and he lay comfortably watching the trees go by. Every now and then either one of the twins, Estel, Mithrandir or Glorfindel would ride alongside them, making sure that all was well within the carriage.

By the time they stopped for the night, he was once more exhausted and in pain. He hated being this weak, this dependant on others.

He said nothing as he was once more helped from the carriage and on shaky legs he made his way to where the fire was being built for the night. He could only watch as the meal was being prepared.

Estel and Elladan had left the camp to make sure that there would be no nasty surprises or unwelcome visitors. They returned to the camp to sigh appreciatively at the welcome smell of the food cooking.

It took all of Thranduil�s persuasion for Legolas to eat more than just a few bites. Legolas could not help it the food was making him queasy.

From across the fire Elrond was watching with keen eyes. It was worrying that Legolas did not seem to be making any improvement. He took in the Prince�s pale, tired face and despite the seriousness of the minute he had to smile at the sight of the King trying to persuade his son to take more of the food, with a patience that only a parent could know.

It was not working; Legolas merely turned his head away. As he watched Legolas� face seemed to loose what little colour it had. He placed his plate on the ground and made his way to Thranduil�s side.

�Are you feeling sick, Penneth?�

�Y� Yes.�

�I will make you something that will help, is that alright?� He tried to reassure the blond, but Legolas would not meet his eyes.

�T� Thank you.�

�You have nothing to thank me for.� He looked up at Thranduil. �Do not force him to eat it will only make matters worse at the moment.� He turned back to the Prince. �Legolas, rather than having you try and eat a heavy meal like us; I will have a light soup made for you at each meal that may help.�

He moved off to make the tea, mixing it with the herbs that eased the pain that he knew the Prince was suffering from but would not admit to.

It did not take long before Legolas was once more asleep, cradled in Thranduil�s arms. Thranduil gave a small sigh as he rested his head on the golden hair. He could smell that unique smell that belonged to his son. How he hated this. Seeing his son so weak and thin. The pallor itself was frightening. He wished with all his heart that he could change places with Legolas and take at least some of the pain away from him.

He fell asleep like that and no one had the heart to wake them. All Elrond did was make sure that they were both covered with enough blankets so that Legolas could be comfortable.

They met the patrol Mithrandir had met the day before joined them just as the sun reached it zenith, albeit weakly in the sky.

There was much rejoicing as old friends were reunited. Thranduil had to smile at his guards antics.

The guards could only express their worry at how ill their beloved Prince looked. They needed no encouragement to continue on with their journey.

They encountered no further trouble with Orcs or spiders as they made their way through the dark forest. It was a relief for all of them when they finally reached green healthy forest.

The difference was startling as dark gave way to light. It gave a good indication of what Mirkwood was like before the Necromancer had settled into Dol Guldur. It hurt the Wood Elves to see their beloved home falling more and more into darkness. They each had vowed to fight the darkness even if it cost them their immortal lives.

It was a further two days before they reached the edge of the forest that led down to the Palace. They halted for a while at the top of the bank and looked out over the clearing that held the Flet�s and Palace.

Inside the carriage Legolas had a smile on his face as he heard the trees rejoicing in his return, it changed to worry as they realised their Prince was not in the same condition that he had left. He reassured them and promised that he would come and see them when he was allowed.

He took a deep breath, he was home. Nothing could go wrong know. Nothing.

Chapter Four

Across the carriage Thranduil could not help but smile at the sight of his only child�s pleasure at being home once again.

Thranduil leaned out of the window and took in the sight of his home. Now Legolas would be able to heal. It would not be long before he was back to being the wonderful, light hearted Elf that they all loved so well.

He could hear the trees songs as he sat there, rejoicing at having both their King and Prince home.

His smile turned to a frown as he watched Legolas beginning to shake with cold once more. He reached out for him and pulled him back into an embrace, careful to keep the covers over him. Elrond was moving too, and within seconds he was offered a steaming goblet once more.

Thranduil smiled his thanks before helping Legolas drink.

As much as they wanted it, it was impossible to make the last of the journey in less than two days and it was with reluctance that they set up camp for the night. Once again Legolas had to be helped from the carriage, his legs still far too weak to hold his weight without help.

Thranduil could only watch with growing worry when Legolas refused the soup that had been made for him. This produced another worry, if Legolas refused nutrition where would he get the energy needed to heal. At least he was still drinking. He needed to talk with Elrond.

Standing he crossed the space to where Elrond was talking quietly to Glorfindel, he left Legolas with Estel knowing that the ranger would care for his son as well as he did.

Elrond looked up as he drew near and beckoned him to join them. �We should be at the Palace by tomorrow evening, Glorfindel has spoken with Salentha, leader of the last patrol we passed and he does not think that there will be any hold ups once we get started.�

�Good, the sooner we get Legolas home the better.� Thranduil could not mask his worry.

Elrond picked it up, though. �What is wrong, Mellon-nin?�

�Legolas will not accept his broth. I am worried, what will happen if he continues to refuse? How can he heal?�

�He is still drinking is he not?� Elrond has his head tipped to one side, a thoughtful look on his face.

�Yes, with no difficulty at all.� Thranduil felt slightly more at ease, the look on Elrond�s face was one he knew of old. His friend had a plan.

�Well, instead of trying to get him to eat, we will put some of the soups ingredients into his drink, at least that way he will be getting some of the nutrition he needs.�

�That would work?� There was a little bit of disbelief in Glorfindel�s voice.

�Yes, it will work, much the same as it did when he first received his injuries.� Glorfindel did not miss the dark frown that was thrown in his direction. He winced, thinking back on just how ill the Prince had been and how they had had to feed him thin soups and porridge.

�That will help him?� Thranduil was almost pleading, something not often seen.

�Yes, it will help him. I think it is just the result of the long journey. It has been hard on him.� As he said it Elrond knew that he had just voiced the greatest understatement ever.

�Aye that it has, he has been hurt so much.� Thranduil�s voice was low and practically hummed with tension.

�It has not been easy on any of us to see. To us he is just a much loved friend, for you he is your child. You have my admiration once more, Mellon-nin.� Elrond�s words were sincere.

�That is one of the sorrows of being a father. You hurt when they hurt. But I think the joys outweigh the times that they hurt.� Was Thranduil�s only comment on the subject.

�Come, let us see if we can encourage him with some medicated tea.� They made their way back across the clearing and headed straight for the fire.

Mithrandir was standing to one side talking to the twins. A few of the Mirkwood warriors had disappeared into the surrounding woods.

Legolas lay in front of the fire, Estel supporting him. His eyes were closed, dark lashes showing just how little colour he had. Thick, black circles stood out starkly beneath them. Elrond felt his breath catch, the Prince looked as bad as he had all those weeks ago when he was having the fits brought on by the head injury.

He knelt beside his foster son and tried to smile reassuringly at the grey eyes in front of him. Grey eyes that held the worry that he himself felt.

�Legolas, how are you feeling?� He gently reached out to touch the pale forehead.

Blue eyes slowly opened and once again he felt the breath leave him. The eyes held a mixture of extreme exhaustion and pain. A pain so bad that the Prince, who usually kept injuries to himself and would not admit to them unless on the point of collapse, could not even bring himself to try and hide it.

�T� Tiwed.�

�I can see that, Penneth, what else?�

�H� headache. L� legs s� sore.� Just those few words left him panting, exhausted all the more.

�I will make you something for the pain. Elladan?� He looked up then to find every single person in the camp watching them, concern and worry bright in each face.

�Yes, Ada?� Elladan was at his side in an instant.

�Can you massage Legolas� legs while I sort the tea out?�

�Of course I will.� He took his father�s place and began to massage the stiff, knotted muscles.

�Chew this in the mean time, Legolas.� Elrond handed him an herb to help relax the muscles. It was taken and chewed with no comment. Elrond�s right eye rose as he took all this in. He found himself wishing for the stubborn, sometimes cantankerous Prince that he knew so well. Not this pale wan husk before him. He turned to make the tea, the last thing Legolas needed was pity.

When he turned back with the goblet of herbal tea it was to find that Thranduil had taken Estel�s place and his son had retreated to Elladan�s side to help with the massaging of the Prince�s legs.

Legolas� hands were shaking far too much for him to hold the goblet so Elrond helped him drink it as Thranduil rubbed his back, murmuring reassurances to him.

It was a relief for Legolas when the muscles in his legs finally stopped cramping. How he hated this. He could feel everybody�s eyes on him. If only he could stand on his own or hold the goblet. But no, instead he was left weaker than a kitten and a burden on those around him. Something that had always worried him, and frightened him if truth be told.

It was not long before he lay in his fathers comforting arms as the pain began to recede. He listened to the chatter around the camp, but did not have the energy to join in. As he relaxed he once more fell into sleep, eyes closed, but safe with his father.

The talk quietened as they noticed Legolas was once more asleep. Thranduil looked up and his eyes met Elrond�s once more.

�You are worried.� It was a statement and not a question.

�Yes, he is becoming weaker. The sooner we get him back into a more settled surroundings the better he will be. I do not want him left alone, though. That would not be wise.� Thranduil nodded at that.

It was a work of minutes for the watches to be set, they could never be too careful in Mirkwood, just because the forest was green and lush it did not mean that the spiders or other dark creatures would not attack if they felt the inclination.

Silence fell as the others settled for the night. At Elrond�s insistence Thranduil slept on his own for the first time in many nights. Usually he was to be found hugging his son to him and looking rather uncomfortable.

Each of the watches contained at least one of the Prince�s friends. It had been with silent communication that they agreed to sit with the Prince. The first to do so was Estel and he cradled his friend to him, offering his own body warmth.

Estel whispered into the elegant ear, talking of old adventures that they had shared, pranks at the twin�s expense, nights spent in quiet companionship. As he talked he found he had to clear the lump that had seemed to set up home in his throat. How he cherished this friendship. It was rewarding in so very, many ways.

Glorfindel took over when it was his turn to take the watch and he sat cradling Legolas to him, much the same as Estel had, making sure that he was covered by the multitude of blankets. It was hot for the others sitting with the Prince, but they all thought it was worthwhile.

Glorfindel found him self reminiscing about the past and the many adventures they had all been a part of. He gave a small smile at least the Prince seemed to be at ease at the moment. His watch passes with a speed that would normally have surprised him and soon Elladan was standing in front of them, ready to take his place.

Elladan watched as the Balrog Slayer settled onto his bedding with a sigh. Silence fell for a while and then Elladan began speaking into Legolas� ears.

�Well, Mellon-nin it is you and I for a while. You must be pleased that you are home. Soon we will be riding in the forest you watch. Shadow has had far too little exercise lately. There will be no stopping you both.�

Elladan grinned at that, his friend and his horse were a sight to behold. One as dark as a starless night, the other as fair as any being could be. As different as chalk and cheese, yet they complemented each other perfectly, right down to the playful spirit.

�We also need to plan some tricks on Elrohir and Estel. We still need to get them back for last time, we never did get the chance.� He had never been so angry either. The pair had dyed his favourite tunic pink. That had been relatively nothing compared with Legolas, he would never forget the sight of his friend with multi coloured bows tied to his hair. How they had managed that without Legolas waking had been a mystery.

It was soon reviled that they had plied his wine with some long acting sleeping herb, sneaked into the Prince�s chamber and tied the bows with intricate knots that he needed help with removing them. He did not think he had ever seen Legolas so angry with his brothers. Come to that his father had not been too happy. The pair was punished by mucking out the stables for a month. After they had removed the bows, of course.

�We need to find suitable punishments for them both. We can not let them get away with this.� He found him self stroking the blond hair as he talked.

�Not that we have not done worse in the past ourselves, Mellon-nin.� It had always been this way, trying to out prank the others. It was great fun.

�We need to get you well first.�

�Y� yes.�

Elladan had almost, almost jumped. �Legolas, you are awake?� He could have groaned, what a stupid question!

�Y� yes.� He could feel the fine trembling starting up once more and he pulled the blond even nearer to him.

�Did I wake you?�

�N� No.�

�I am glad. Do you need anything?�

�G� Go.�

�Go where, Legolas?� This had to be so frustrating for Legolas.

�N� Need to g� go.� He could not miss the pink tinge to the elegantly pointed ears in front of him.

�Oh. Oh!� Realisation hit home. �Do you want me to wake?�

�N� no s� sleeping.� Legolas� eyes rested on his father.

�Will you let me help?� Elladan waited with bated breath, Legolas had only let Thranduil help him with the necessary as it arose.

�Y� Yes, p� please.�

�Of course, I will just get Gilaen to help me move you.� He had no need to move the Elf in question was already heading their way.

Seconds later they had moved a little way away from the group to allow the Prince some small measure of privacy.

They returned to the group to find Elrond sitting up waiting for them. He gave them a small smile and when they were once again sat by the fire, he handed Elladan the goblet that he had prepared. As Legolas was helped to drink it he could have almost rolled his eyes. He should have expected this, it was medicated and while he was grateful that it lessened his pain, he hated the fact that it made him so drowsy. He was sleeping far too much as it was.

They set off after the morning meal, all intending to make good time. The promise of a comfortable bed a clarion call to each and every one of them.

Not one of them was aware of the eyes that followed the carriages movements. Eyes that glimmered in the gloomy autumn day.

In the carriage Legolas could not hide the shudder that ran through him. It was almost as if�

�Legolas, what is wrong?� His father had noticed his reaction.

�N� Nothing.�

Thranduil seemed to accept that until.

One minute they were as relaxed as they could be with the current circumstances, the next every single one of them was on the alert with senses straining.

It was that odd feeling that they had felt twice before in Rivendell, the feeling that something was going to happen. They all looked for the source but could find none. Even Mithrandir was searching the foliage around them.

No sooner had it happened then it was gone, just as before leaving behind a feeling of apprehension.

They responded with the only thing they could, they carried on with their journey, still unaware that red, hate filled eyes watched their every move.

It was just as dusk was falling that they arrived at the gates that led to the long path way up to the palace doors.

They all watched as Thranduil, using the magic as King of Mirkwood, opened them so that they could enter.

The doors were being opened as the carriage was drawn to a halt. Estel and Elladan slid from their horse�s backs and opened the carriage, helping Legolas from the interior. As he put his feet to the ground, Legolas� left leg gave way and if it had not been for the other two holding him, he would have fallen flat on his face and sprawling at the feet of Galion his father�s trusted long term butler.

As it was the Butler let out an exclamation and hurried to the Prince�s side. His smile of welcome faded slowly as he realised just how ill the Prince looked. Then Thranduil was by his side.

�Galion, Mae Govannen. We need to get Legolas inside.�

�Of course, his room has been made ready, Sire. I ordered a fire be set in his chambers.� He watched Legolas anxiously as he walked hesitantly to the stairs that led up to the golden palace doors.

Legolas somehow suppressed a sigh, there was no way he could manage the stairs as he was. Yet he could not bring himself to admit that.

�Take one step at a time, Legolas. There is no rush.� Elrond�s voice was soft and low and only he could hear it.

He did as instructed and one step at a time he slowly made his way up the steps. Others from the servants had joined them and all were shocked at how weak and ill he looked, some of the Elleth�s had tears in their eyes as they watched. A glower from Thranduil sent them packing, he would not have them gawping at Legolas as if he was a side show.

Finally he was inside the grand hall and sitting in the chair that had been provided for just this purpose. Legolas eyed the stairs that led to his chamber and he knew he would never make them. It had taken twenty minutes to get up five steps. It would take all night for him to make it up the thirty that were before him.

�Rest, ion-nin. I will help you up them, never fear. Gather your breath.� it was then that Legolas realised that he was breathing heavily.

After his father had seen to all of the warm welcomes and their guests had also been made welcome, Thranduil lifted his son into his arms and carried him up the stairs. He did not stop until he opened the chamber door and carried Legolas through. The room was warm a bright welcoming fire was in the hearth. Elrond rushed passed him and pulled the warm bedding down. It was a moment�s work to have Legolas in a night shirt and tucked up in the bed.

Only then were the others let in and they filed in, Galion close behind them.

�I had food made ready for you all. Is Prince Legolas able to eat with you?� The butler asked Thranduil.

Thranduil looked at his son who shook his head, looking a little green at even the mention of food.

�Not at present, Galion maybe later when he is feeling a little better.� Thranduil smiled his thanks at his old childhood friend.

�Should I have some put by for him?� He could not hide his anxiety, the Prince was always thin, but this� he looked almost skeletal.

�What do you have made?� Elrond asked, Legolas would only be able to manage light easily digested food for a while.

�The cook prepared some Duck and the fruit�s the Prince likes so much.� He smiled at said Prince.

�Any clear, light soup?�

�Not at present I can have some made if you wish?� He looked at both Elf Lord�s.

�N� No T� Thank y� you.� Just the thought of food made his stomach churn. Elrond noticed this and reached for his herb pack.

Within seconds Legolas was chewing on the bitter herb.

�That is kind of you, Galion, for future meals Legolas needs light food, scrambled eggs, soup maybe even an omelette. You know how much he loves those.� Thranduil was once more watching Legolas worriedly.

�I will make sure that cook knows, my Lord.� He gave a low bow Thranduil before turning to Legolas. �It is very good to have you home, my Prince. You have been missed.�

The smile he received from the Prince warmed his heart. With every one around him he would be well in no time. He left the room to organise the food.

Estel stayed with him as the others all left to freshen up and get ready for the first good meal in some time. Legolas was asleep as Thranduil took Estel�s place so that he could eat. He smiled at the servant who came to rebuild the fire.

She curtsied and whispered to him. �We will be making sure the Prince is kept warm, my Lord. We have been informed that he is feeling the cold. I have hot bricks so that his bed is kept warm also. Will that help?�

She looked anxiously at him and he had to smile. He had such wonderful staff, they loved his son so much. But then the feeling was reciprocated by the Prince. He would do anything for his people.

�That is wonderful and I thank you, Legolas is feeling the cold greatly and I know that this will help him. Please pass my thanks onto the others on my behalf.�

�Of course, my Lord.� He watched as she removed one of the bricks in the fire and carefully wrapped it in a towel and with Thranduil�s help placed it in the bed, away from any place Legolas could move his legs, they did not want him to burn him self.

Soon they were alone in the room again and Thranduil settled in for the night. It had been decided earlier that they would give Legolas a few days to recover from the journey and then they would begin his exercises in earnest.

In the depths of the palace, out of range of prying eyes a small group were gathering. There were no more than ten Elves and they huddled together so that they could speak in the barest of whispers.

�The King arrived back with the Prince. He will be of no use to him, he can barely stand.� The sniggers around the group were indelicate and very unlike anything that normally came from an Elf.

�This will be easier than we thought.�

�Do not over estimate the half Elven and the Maia. They will need to be watched.�

�What harm can they do here?� More sniggers echoed in the dark chamber.

�More than you could comprehend. No we move slowly and silently. Before Thranduil knows what is happening it will be too late.�

�The Prince is mine.� The voice was deep and hoarse unlike the usual light, tinkling voices of Elves. �That is my payment the Prince as a play thing.� There was silence as this fell on all ears.

Despite what they thought of Thranduil their Prince had not harmed them, in fact he always worked with them. The thought of him being the plaything of Cwaerlion made them all shiver in distaste.

�We will come to that later, first we need to plan our opening move.�

The figures huddled together as they planned ahead. Soon Mirkwood would have a new King.

Chapter Five

Thranduil woke the next morning, before he even moved he knew that he was stiff, indeed his muscles seemed to have set, if such a thing was possible. His head rested on his arms which in turn rested on the comfort of a bed.

He gave a low groan which was met with a deep chuckle. Throwing caution to the wind he brought his head up in one swift move, groaning again at the pain this caused his neck muscles. Once more under control he opened his eyes to find Elrond looking at him with outright amusement.

�I am so glad that you find this so funny.� For some reason this set Elrond off laughing once more.

�Oh but it is, Mellon-nin. I would have woken you but you looked so� uhm� comfortable.� Elrond did not even try to stop the laughter that left his lips.

�I will get you back for this, Elrond trust me. The next time I see you in this position and we both know you have been there, I will just let you sleep, too.� He stretched with feline like grace to relieve some of the tension in his shoulders.

Elrond said nothing he just moved in behind his friend and began to massage the thin shoulders wincing as he felt the knots. Thranduil sighed as the pain receded.

Opening his eyes again he took in his son. Legolas lay propped up with pillows in the wide comfortable bed. He was sleeping with his eyes closed and pale! Thranduil could not recall ever seeing his son this pale apart from in Rivendell.

�How did he sleep?� Elrond�s voice was low seeing how tired the blond Prince was he did not want to waken him.

�Badly, he woke frequently in pain. What is causing these headaches?� Thranduil could only ask.

�I do not now at present, I will examine him when he wakes up, and I may have a better idea then. It may just be a consequence of the travelling. We also need to make certain he begins to eat, he can not afford to loose any more weight.�

�I know he has always been thin, perhaps a little bit more than too thin, but this?� He could only shrug in frustration.

�Come you need to eat and take refreshment.� Elrond held his hand out to his friend.

�I am not hungry; I will wait for Legolas to waken.� Thranduil carefully kept his face averted so that he would not have to look at Elrond. He did not want him to see that he had just been lying. He was hungry, but he did not want to leave Legolas.

�I will bring it here to you, but I warn you, you will not be staying here all the time. That will not be healthy for either you or Legolas. You also have Mirkwood to run; you have been away for six weeks after all.� Elrond�s right eyebrow had disappeared into his hairline.

�I know.� Thranduil cupped his head into his hands.

�Good, we both know where we stand.� Elrond left the chamber.

Thranduil rubbed his face tiredly. He had been looking forward to sleeping in his own bed, but when it came to doing so he had failed. He could not rest so he had come here, to be with Legolas. It had felt right.

He had been pleased that he had, his son had been very agitated at times, the pain causing him to wake frequently. Legolas had seemed to be pleased that he was there.

The door to the chamber opened and Elrond came in with a large tray. He set it down on the bedside table. It held enough to feed an army or so Thranduil thought and he raised his own eyebrow in perfect imitation of his friend.

Elrond replied with one of his own. �There are three of us here, you know. I brought food for us and Legolas.� He carried the bowl over to the fire and set it down to keep the porridge warm.

�I think he will be sick of porridge soon, not that he ever liked it.� He recalled the times he had battled with Legolas as a child.

�Once he begins to eat he will be allowed other more pleasant food.� He looked up as Elrond handed him a plate. Just looking at it made his mouth water, it contained fresh scones with his favourite strawberry jam, he looked up hopefully to look at Legolas it was his sons favourite too. He was disappointed. Legolas slept on.

It did not take long for the platters and tray to be empty, to both Elves surprise. After all having survived the last few weeks on field rations, it tended to give one a greater appreciation for the finer foods.

�When will you start on his exercises?� Thranduil took a sip of the hot tea.

�I can begin minor ones now. The harder ones I will start in two days, I just want him to have some rest first.�

�I will help.� There was a promise in Thranduil�s voice.

�I never doubted that for one minute, Mellon-nin.� He knew that his friend would do anything to help his son. �I need to go and check on my son�s, if I know them they will be getting up to some sort of mischief.�

�Aye, most likely if only Legolas could be doing it with them.� There was wistfulness to his voice.

�I agree.� He gave a laugh then. �I never thought that I would wish for the day that the four of them would be up to their usual antics!� He left the chamber still shaking his head in amusement.

Thranduil meanwhile made his self busy by changing the warm bricks so that Legolas would not be cold. He sat back down with a sigh.

Neither of the chambers occupants moved as the wait continued.

The first move was when the door opened and Elrond entered followed by Thranduil�s own head Healer Mealena.

�Your Highness.� He gave a graceful low bow. �I have come to check the Prince with Lord Elrond if that is permitted.�

�Mealena you never need to ask, you know that. It is good to see you again, Mellon-nin.� Thranduil forewent the usual dignified greeting to hug his childhood friend. �And what have I said about calling me that? To you I am always Thranduil.�

�I know, but I do like to see your face when I call you it. It is good to see you as well. What has my Godson been up to this time? We have had rumours, but each has been as unlikely as the last.� He turned to the bed, frowning as he took in the Prince�s colour.

�This time it is of none of his doing. Elrond can tell you what has been happening.� Thranduil smiled as both healers immediately went into a huddled talking in low tones.

The King him self returned to pick up Legolas� right hand. He looked up when his hand was weakly gripped, blue eyes were open and although pain filled he seemed to be alert.

�Good morning, Ion-nin how are you feeling?� he smiled gently.

Elrond and Mealena hurried to his side at hearing this.

�C� Cold.� Elrond sprang into action on hearing his patient�s admission. He spread two more blankets over him while Mealena moved to stoke the fire.

�You will warm up soon. Apart from being cold how do you feel?� Elrond watched Legolas closely.

�H� Headache.� Legolas did not take his eyes away from Thranduil.

�Can you tell me where the headache is?� They all watched as a shaky hand rose to hover above the top left hand side of his head. It hovered there for a few minutes before moving to a more central position. Right over where the burr holes had been.

�Alright, do you have flashing lights?� Elrond was frowning.

�N� No.�

�Good, what about a feeling of pins and needles over your scalp?� Elrond sat down on the side of Legolas bed.

�N� No.� Legolas was watching him now.

�Does light hurt your eyes?�

�N� No.�

�Good, good. Do you feel sick?� Elrond was pleased so far.

�Y� Yes.�

�All the time?� Elrond had Legolas� wrist in his own, feeling for the pulse point.

�Y� Yes.� Elrond patted the pale hand before returning it to its place under the covers.

�I need to look into your eyes, if I may?� He was pleased with the steady pulse, it was a little fast to be sure, but that could be due to the pain that the Elf was still feeling.

�Y� Yes.�

Elrond sat back a minute later, pleased. �I will make something for your headache, you can take it frequently. I will also add something that will help with the nausea. I need to know if and when the pain becomes greater than it is at present. For the next few days I want you to rest, only leaving your bed to go to the bathing room. I will begin giving you some exercises to do this afternoon, but they will only be mild ones. Do you understand?�

�Y� Yes, a� alwight.� Just this little conversation had exhausted him again.

�Good, someone will be sitting with you at all times for a while, to keep watch on you and to stop you going crazy with boredom!� Elrond could not help but joke with the young Prince. They all knew too well that when he wanted to leave, no one would be able to stop him.

Legolas gave a small smile at this. He was too tired to do anything else.

�Rest, I am sure that you will be having some visitors for the noon day meal. But before then I need you to try and eat something. It is warm, but let me give you some tea first.� Mealena had been mixing the herbs while Elrond was talking with Legolas and he handed it to Thranduil.

Legolas managed a quarter of the bowl much to the pleasure of the others in the chamber. It was the most he had eaten in days. After that Elrond left the chamber so that Legolas could rest. Mealena took a seat by the large bay windows that led out onto the wide balcony. Normally these windows would be open so that Legolas could speak with the tree that grew next to it.

He had explained to Elrond earlier that he had the feeling that he needed to be with his Godson. It was a feeling that the moody and often irascible healer could not explain. It was just how he felt, an unease that he did not know the origin of.

Elrond luckily was more than used to dealing with feelings like this, he had them often about a patient or loved one.

The morning passed swiftly as Legolas slept once more, his stomach more settled than it had been for some time.

The noonday bell had just been rung when the door to the chamber burst open, literally. Thranduil looked up a frown on his face only for it to change to a smile as he took in Elrond�s son�s standing in the door heads hung low as their father told them in no certain terms to grow up and stop acting like Elfling�s if they did not want to be treated like one.

�Sorry, Ada we were just looking forward to seeing Legolas.� Estel tried to appease his father.

�I know ion-nin but Legolas is sleeping.�

�Not any more.� Thranduil�s dry sarcastic response made the two young Elves and human wince. Elrond�s frown grew deeper and suddenly all three found the floor to be interesting.

�I am sorry; Legolas these three would not know how to be quiet at any time.� Elrond moved to Legolas� side.

�A� Alwight. N�Need a� awake.� Legolas tried to smile it looked more like a grimace and Estel felt his guilt grow, his friend was so tired and weak. He hated this, seeing him like this. He should be out on the balcony talking with his tree.

Estel cut that thought off. It was not Legolas� tree, well not in the true sense of the word.

�How is the headache?� Elrond�s voice was soft.

�B� Bad.� He looked up to see that Mealena had once again beaten him to it. The goblet was already being handed to Thranduil.

Another knock on the door and Elrohir hurried to open it. Glorfindel stood there with a tray in his arms and two servants behind him also holding trays. It appeared that they would all be staying here with Legolas for their meal.

Soon they were all settled and while Thranduil ate his meal Estel helped Legolas with the light fluffy scrambled eggs that lay on his platter. He managed seven bites before his stomach began rebelling and he refused any more. Rather than push it Estel left it as it was, as his father had instructed earlier, they did not want meals for the Prince to become a battle ground.

Estel sat down to his own meal and the conversation remained deliberately light with Mithrandir who had just joined them, telling them stories of his last trip to the Shire and his old friend Bilbo Baggins. Both Legolas and Thranduil were pleased to hear that the Perinnath was well.

They had almost finished when the cramp hit Legolas and with an almost inarticulate cry he tried to claw at his right leg. The room burst into frantic action their meal forgotten.

Elrond threw back the covers and began massaging the offending muscle. Estel ran for the bottle of medicated oil that Elrond had made just for this occurrence. Thranduil had his sons hand in his own, trying to calm and reassure him.

Elladan did the only thing he could that he thought may help. He knew that Legolas would be cold once more as the covers had to be removed to allow Elrond room to work. So the twin carefully took the hot brick away from the fire and carefully wrapped it into the towel kept to one side for just this purpose. He then rebuilt the fire so that more heat would feel the chamber.

Thinking quickly he crossed to Glorfindel�s side. �Do you think brining a brazier up would help keep Legolas warm?�

The Balrog Slayer blinked in astonishment, but then he smiled. �That is an excellent idea.�

�Good I will see to it.� Elladan snagged his brothers arm and led Elrohir from the chamber, explaining where they were going and why.

Legolas could only sigh with relief as the warm fragrant oil did its work. He frowned as he looked down at his leg. The wound he had suffered during the initial attack on him had healed, but it had left behind a puckered red scar. It did not look pleasant, but he knew that it would soon heal and leave no permanent scar. He just did not like looking at it.

Thranduil followed his line of sight and realised that Legolas was staring at his leg. He quickly covered it, earning him a small smile of thanks.

Just at that minute the twin�s returned the brazier carried between them, they set it up near to where Legolas lay.

�T� Thank y� you.� It was all that they needed to hear.

�You are welcome, Legolas as long as it helps.� Elladan felt a glow of pride at the pleased look on his father�s face.

They finished their meal quickly after that, but not one of them made a move to leave the room.

�Legolas, I need to look at your arm.� Elrond had just realised that the wounds left by the Warg had started to bleed again. The Prince looked down and then up with a look of surprise. It appeared that he was not the only one to realise.

It was the work of seconds for Elrond and Mealena to have the old dressing removed. Thranduil did not know how he managed to keep the gasp of shock in.

The wound looked bad. It had not even begun to granulate and looked as if it were fresh and not a few days old. The skin was red and taught with infection. It was no wonder Legolas had not liked to move the limb.

Lips pursed Elrond cleaned the wound with water mixed with athelas. It was clear to him that what ever was going on with Legolas his immune system had been affected. This would need to be watched. Legolas could ill afford to become ill through this. As it was the skin around the claw marks was hot to the touch.

Elrond packed the wounds with fresh athelas that Mealena had handed to him and then proceeded to bind the wound being careful not to cause further pain to the Prince.

Once he had finished he rinsed his hands, as he wiped them dry he noted that Legolas was once again shivering. He crossed to the bed and gently touched the pale forehead with the back of his hand. It was as he feared, Legolas had a minor fever.

He said nothing but crossed to the small herb table that Mealena had set up and infused athelas in hot water, crushing the leaves so that they shed their healing qualities into the water he then removed the limp leaves.

He handed the goblet to Thranduil before turning to Legolas. �Drink this. We will not be doing any exercises with your arms today, they will wait for tomorrow. We will begin with your legs.�

�Will he be alright?� Thranduil asked looking at his friend.

�Yes, it is just a little infection. Unfortunately Wargs do not care for their claws and germs live on them, it will soon clear up.�

Legolas somehow managed to drink all of the tea, even though his stomach felt as though it would rebel on him. It was hard to keep it down though. A hand appeared in front of him and he looked up to see Elrond hand held out with the bitter herb ready for him to take, he could not fool Rivendell�s Lord.

The waited until he had settled before beginning the small exercises on his legs. Luckily he did not have to help, he was too exhausted. Instead he just lay back wincing when the muscles protested their use.

Then when Elrond was happy with that he along with Thranduil helped him to sit up on the side of his bed to try and aide his balance.

No sooner had Legolas settled back against the pillow then he was asleep. The others settled down to wait for him to awake once more.

Thranduil could not stop the growing worry within him. He had, perhaps rather stupidly he admitted, thought that as soon as Legolas was home he would improve immediately. But now, now he realised that Legolas� recovery would take some time.

He closed his eyes, tired. Would he loose Legolas to Mandos Halls as he had his wife? He knew without a shadow of a doubt that if Legolas were to die then he would sail to the West immediately, if he did not fade from grief first. Legolas was all that made Middle Earth worth staying for. He had been the soul reason he had not faded after the Orc attack on his wife. His golden Son, loved by all.

A hand on his shoulder made him jump. He had not meant for his eyes to stay shut. Elrond was looking down at him worry clear. �I will stay with Legolas. Go and get some sleep before I drug you. Legolas needs you rested and well.�

�I know, trust me I know. I can not loose him, Elrond I just can not.� Desperation was clear in the King�s voice.

�You will not loose him, Mellon-nin it will just take time for him to become well. He will have a long hard road ahead of him, but he will get there. He has us to help him.� Elrond�s voice was sincere.

�Hannon lle, Mellon-nin I do not know what I would do without you.�

�Go rest. If he wakes I will send for you.� He smiled as Thranduil made his way out of the chamber. Once he had left the chamber though his smile faded to be replaced with worry.

�Do you believe that?� Glorfindel asked as he moved beside his friend.

�Yes and no.�

Mithrandir�s eyebrows rose at this. The others in the room could have sworn they heard him saying under his breath, that you could never get a straight answer from an Elf.

�Yes and no?� Glorfindel could not help but echo.

�Yes he will get better, but I do not think it will be a straight forward as I first hoped. He really does have a long road ahead of him.� He could not stop the sigh leaving his lips.

�We will be here for him.� Estel stated his voice sure and full of conviction.

They settled in for the afternoon.

Legolas slept for most of that time waking just before the evening meal.

Down in the kitchen one of the staff managed to earn the cooks wrath. He had spent all afternoon making the Prince�s favourite light dishes only for the imbecilic Elf in front of him to ruin it. He let said Elf know exactly what he thought of him.

While this was happening another Elf moved in behind him and he quickly emptied the clear vial of liquid into the bowl of clear, supposedly nutritious food.

Once the vial was empty he returned it to the pocket in his tunic, quickly he stirred the liquid so that it was impossible to tell that the soup had been tampered with.

He moved back to his own boring task of peeling the vegetables for the King�s evening meal. His smile was sly and pleased. The ball had been set rolling; it was a pity that the Prince had to be targeted for he rather liked the Prince. Still it was a means to an end.

Soon Mirkwood would have a new leader and they would be able to beat back the tide of darkness that was slowly but surely taking its hold on the world around them.

The cook had finished his tirade and was now stirring the soup. This would be perfect. Just perfect�.

Chapter Six

Legolas lay propped up against the pillows on his bed, his father sat to one side watching the scene in front of them unfold. He had just woken once more.

He was trying desperately to keep his eyes opened, he really needed to stop from falling asleep, and no matter how much he slept he was still permanently tired. Luckily the noise in room was enough to aid him.

The twin�s in their dubious wisdom had decided to pit their wits in a game of cards with Mithrandir. They were now realising why it was not sensible as they were being beaten very, very badly. Estel was cheering the Maia on much to his brother�s displeasure.

The two who lasted the longest would battle over a game of chess.

Thranduil could only smile, indulgently. There was only one in the room who could happily challenge the wizard in that particular game, Mithrandir had never won against him either.

�Legolas, would you like to play a game of Chess?� Thranduil turned to his son. Out of all in the room Legolas was the greatest player.

�L� Later.� Tired blue eyes met his.

�I will keep you to that, ion-nin.� They turned back in time to see Mithrandir win the game.

Estel moved to put the chess board on the small table. The game was against Elladan and Mithrandir. All watched with amusement.

They only broke off when it was time for the evening meal, leaving the board set up and ready to return to.

There was a knock on the door and it was servants with trays of food for them. The food smelt very good.

Soon all had been served. Thranduil helped Legolas to eat the thin broth that had been prepared for him. He only took a few spoonfuls before he had had enough. Smiling his encouragement Thranduil then began his own meal.

Legolas closed his eyes as he listened to the sound of his family and friend�s eating. Deep down inside of him, he longed to join them, to enjoy food once more, but it tasted odd. Every time he tried to eat the food did not taste right. He had no idea why. Now, though he was no longer even hungry.

He knew this worried his father and he hated causing him yet more worry.

It was not long before he was lost to sleep once more, the others did not notice as they continued eating.

Legolas could not say when he noticed the change. One minute he was lost in sleep the next it felt as if his skin was crawling. Heat seemed to rush through him and it left him panting for breath, a breath that he could not seem to draw.

He began to panic; all he could concentrate on was the need to get oxygen into his lungs. The more he tried to breathe the less he was able to.

He could not move his hands! Panic flared greater than ever. Breathing forgotten he concentrated on his hands, he had to move them, he had to warn his father.

Everything was beginning to grow hazy and he could no longer remember what it was that he needed to tell his father. It was important of that he was sure. But what was it?

He could only make small sounds; it was as if his body would no longer obey him. He heard small whimpering sounds and with a start realised it was he who was making the noise.

He tried to open his eyes, but that was beyond him. The burning pain seemed to recede and then it returned full force. It was as if he was on fire, every nerve ending screeching in pain. He did not think he could take much more, why was no one helping him?

Adar he needed his Ada.

What made Thranduil look up from his conversation with Elrond he would never be able to tell. Legolas had been sleeping peacefully, quiet against his pillows.

But know he was frowning, almost as if he was in pain. He made his way back to the bed. Gently he took the thin pale hand into his not wanting to waken him should he be sleeping and only dreaming.

He could feel the tension in Legolas right away. Fine tremors shook his son. �Hush, Legolas it is only a dream.�

His calm voice seemed to have no effect. In fact it seemed to panic him even more. Legolas was breathing in short distressed pants, but when the small whimper�s left the light blue tinged lips the King began to panic.

Elrond was by his side in an instant and the others stood, ready should they be needed.

One quick examination later and Elrond was sat on the bed his hand on Legolas forehead the other over his heart as he tried to bring the Prince back from where ever he was. It was not working and he could feel the Prince�s panic and pain.

Elrond brought him self up at that. Legolas was in pain? He quickly felt for the thin wrist for the pulse point. There! It was pounding far to fast for his liking.

�Glorfindel, I need some Millern bark, now!�

Glorfindel did not pause to question his friend, when he spoke in those tones it was best to act first and ask later. It meant the situation was dire. It was also very rare to use this particular bark, especially on an Elf. Its primary use was to slow the heart. In all his years Glorfindel had never, ever seen it used on one of his kind. It had to mean that there was a problem with Legolas� heart.

He hurried to his friend�s side with the bark and handed it over. All in the room watched as the Elf Lord crushed the bark between his fingers until it resembled a paste. Once happy with the consistency he gently opened the pale blue lips and rubbed the paste along the gum line.

He watched as the Prince�s eyes moved beneath the eyelids in an almost agitated action. The whimpers had turned into inarticulate words, now.

Thranduil could only watch fear seeping from every single pore in his body. He found he could not take his eyes from those blue lips, he had never seen the likes of this before. It suddenly dawned on him, with help of the tense atmosphere that Legolas could very well die here.

As they all watched it became clear that Legolas was having trouble breathing, hence the panting between the senseless words. Elrond tried to sooth him, tried to help the Prince take short steady breaths. He had to admit before long, even if only to him self, that this was not working.

He was just about to ask Glorfindel for another herb, which he knew would help, when Legolas gave one shuddering whimper before going completely still.

No one dared move, let alone speak. Horror and shock was written all over the faces in the room. Estel found him self praying that his friend was still alive, yet he was frozen to the spot, unable to unwilling to move and end the uncertainty.

Little did he know that every one was feeling exactly as he was.

It was Elrond who finally moved a slightly shaking hand out to reach for the pale throat, unsure of what he would find at the pulse point.

He almost collapsed with relief when he found the still pounding pulse.

�He is alive.� Three simple words, but they were the best words all in the room had heard in a long time. Elrond frowned then as he reached once more to feel the pulse. It was still way to fast for the healers liking.

This time he did not need to ask, Glorfindel was ready with the bark. Once again they all watched as he crushed it before administering it.

The next minute was the longest Thranduil could ever remember, and that was saying something considering everything his son and his friend�s put them through.

Elrond�s fingers did not move from the pale neck until the pulse was at a more settled rhythm.

�Ada, what was that all about?� Estel could not stop the quiver in his voice. This time he really had thought that his friend would not survive.

�I am as in the dark as you are, Estel we do need to find out the cause, though. This is not normal for an Elf.�

They all watched in silence as he began another examination on the senseless Prince.

Glorfindel watched this with a comforting hand on the King. Thranduil looked almost as pale as his son, if that was at all possible.

�I will need to take some blood. His pupils are slightly dilated, but that could be down to the Millern Bark. I need to be sure.� Elrond looked up as he said this.

Mealena had moved to collect the vials and the shortened yet sharp thorn that could be used to pierce the skin with. He handed these to Elrond with out hesitation. Even though he had treated Legolas for injuries in the past it was never easy. The Prince was almost a member of his family and he was a little too close to him, if truth be told.

Also and he had no qualms about admitting this, Elrond was the better healer, Mealena had spent his apprenticeship under the Lord of Rivendell. The other Elf knew thing�s about healing that he him self was just beginning to learn

�Thank you.� Elrond took the vial and needle and moved so that he could lift Legolas� left arm up, it would hurt less if he took the blood from this arm. The other was still too sore and infected to even contemplate using it.

Mealena held the pale arm steady as Elrond readied him self. It was not long before the small vial was filled with silvery red blood. Glorfindel had replaced Mealena and was putting pressure on the small wound to stop the bleeding.

�You can use my study, Elrond.� Mealena straightened his robes.

�Thank you.� Elrond turned to the others in the room. �We will be back as soon as we can, if I am needed come for me.�

�Of course, Ada.� Elladan had not needed to be told, but he could understand his need to drive home the point.

�Good.� They turned to leave the chamber, but Elrond stopped just short of the door. �Oh and while I think of it keep back the bowl of soup, I may need to look at it.�

Mithrandir had already claimed the bowl into his custody. �It will be here.�

�Thank you, Mithrandir.� With that parting shot the two Elves left the chamber.

Silence fell as the others settled in to wait once more. No one said a thing as Thranduil gently picked Legolas up and moved in behind him. As soon as he was settled the King cradled his son once more in his arms. Thanking the Valar once again that he had this chance for a while there he really had not thought he would be able to do this again.

�What do you think caused this?� Elrohir�s voice was soft.

�I have no idea, but it looked as if Legolas was choking.� Elladan answered his twin.

�For Ada to use the bark.� Elrohir shivered.

�I know, but Legolas obviously needed it.�

�Will you both please stop this? We will have no answers until Ada returns. Besides you are giving me a headache with constant questions.� Estel could not bear to listen to the twins as they speculated. On what may have caused this.

�Sorry, Estel we are just worried. I happened so fast, one minute asleep and then�� Elladan could say no more.

�I know �Dan, I know. I want answers too.� Estel rubbed his eyes in fatigue. They seemed to be jumping from once crisis to another with Legolas at the moment.

�We will have them, never fear.� They all winced at the cold promise in the King�s voice. �If some one is responsible for this they will pay.�

�Time will tell.� They all turned to Mithrandir who stood by the fire the bowl of cold broth cradle led safely in his hands.

Mithrandir looked up. �Speculation gets us no where, Legolas is safe with us. Wait for the results of Elrond�s tests before jumping to conclusions.�

�You are right of course, Mithrandir. It would be far too easy to blame this on those who are innocent. I will wait. But mark my words if this is not a simple accident or unknown problem I will find those who did this and they will wish they had never been born.� The steel in Thranduil�s voice convinced them all and each one of them were pleased that the words were not meant for them.

What more could the others say?

While they waited they did the only thing they could, make sure that Legolas was warm and comfortable. Thranduil was pleased that they could at least do this as the fine tremors that wracked the thin frame of his son had become more pronounced.

They had just finished changing the hot bricks and stoking both fire and brazier when the door to the chamber opened once more.

Elrond and Mealena both entered the room looking grave and everyone felt their stomachs do another summersault at the sight.

The two ignored all the others but headed straight for the Maia by the fire.

�Has any one touched it?� Elrond did not beat about the bush.

�No, just me and I have held it all this time.� Mithrandir raised his right eyebrow at the Elf Lord and despite the seriousness of the situation Elrond found him self wondering if his friend was trying to match his own eyebrow callisthenics. Others sure seemed to like to copy him.

�Good.� Elrond reached to take the bowl from him.

�What have you found?� Thranduil watched all this from his place behind Legolas.

�A foreign substance that should not be there.� Elrond held up his hand at the protests this news would undoubtedly bring. �We do not know where it came from. It is hard I know, but be patient, as soon as I know anything I will tell you. In the meantime Legolas needs to drink as much water as you can get in him. Only give him sustenance that you are positive has not been tampered with. I need to look at this soup.�

He stopped at the bed on the way to the door and looked Legolas over. �Has there been any change?�

�No, nothing he is as you left him.� Thranduil�s eyes were wide with worry.

�That is good, no change is good. I will be back very soon.� With that the two Elves made their way from the chamber.

Only ten minutes passed this time before the two hurried into the chamber once more. Not one word was said as the pair moved towards the herb table with a purpose. All watched with wonder as the two began to cut and shred herbs and roots with a purpose.

Soon they were by the bed with Elrond nearest to Legolas and Thranduil.

�Tip his head back slightly, we need to get this tea into him as soon as possible.� Elrond waited impatiently for his wishes to be carried out.

Thranduil realised that this was not the moment to question his friend�s orders. For that is what they were orders. He gently tilted Legolas� head back and opened the limp mouth.

It took them some time, but the eventually fed the entire goblet of tea to the Prince. Once they had finished they helped to settle him back against Thranduil�s chest, it was obvious to all that Thranduil would not be moving any time soon. Not that Elrond could blame him.

�What did you find?� Thranduil with great tenderness brushed the golden hair from his son�s face.

�A very mild poison, normally with a healthy Elf this would have caused no problem. But with Legolas in such a frail condition it could have caused great harm. I am glad that we were in the room with him at the time.� Elrond had Legolas� wrist in his hand once more the thin tapered finger�s feeling for the pulse once more.

�Why, what would have happened?� On second thought Thranduil was not sure that he really wanted to know.

�It is not often used and Mealena has never even seen it before. It targets the heart and lungs. It has been likened to feeling a thousand ants crawling under your skin. Then you can not breathe and each attempt makes it worse, hence his cyanosed lips. It also causes the heart to beat faster. He could well have died .�

�We need to find the ones who did this. Will there be any lasting effects?� Glorfindel asked what Thranduil could not.

�No, but the next few days will be even more uncomfortable for him. This will put his recovery back, I am afraid. His pulse is steadying out nicely. Who would have had access to the food?�

Thranduil looked a little easier at his words. �The kitchen staff and all who serve the food.�

�We will need to speak with them. We need to find out who is behind this attempt.� Elrond was happy at Legolas� improvement.

�Once more I have to thank you, Mellon-nin. What would I do without you here?� In fact Thranduil knew all to well what he would be doing. He would be grieving or sailing to the West already.

�You have nothing to thank me for.� Elrond was just happy that the Prince was still here with them.

�I need to speak with the kitchen and serving staff, but I do not wish to leave Legolas.� Thranduil really did not want to leave the chamber.

�I will find Galion he will know where they all are.� Mealena once more left the chamber.

�We could talk to them in here. That may intimidate them somewhat, if they see what they have done.� Estel sounded fierce. If he got his hands on those responsible.

�That is a good idea. We could all be here then.� Elladan sounded as angry as his foster brother.

�I agree, we will talk to them here.� Thranduil�s voice was grim.

It was a second later that there was a knock on the door. Estel was nearest and he opened the door. An Elf he had never met before entered with a bow. He crossed to the bed and handed his King a piece of parchment.

�My Lord�s. This arrived for you, my Liege by messenger they said it was urgent.� The young Elf could not take his eyes off of the Prince as he lay in the bed. Rumours had been spread about the Realm and settlements as to what the Prince�s illness was. He had not expected this, the Prince looked to be half dead!

�Thank you.� The Elf left eager to tell all who would listen that the Prince was dieing.

Thranduil opened the missive and read it through his face paling as he continued, once he had finished the parchment fell to the floor with unhindered grace from bloodless fingers.

When Thranduil did not or could not answer Elrond picked the letter from the floor and what he read made him gasp.

Chapter Seven

�Elrond?� Glorfindel had seen many things in his long years, but this was amazing. Never had he seen his friends this colour.

Thranduil was so white he thought he might faint, Glorfindel could only think that it was a good idea that he was already sitting, and he did not look as if he had the strength to stand of his own accord. Elrond was white, his lips in a thin line. Never had he seen this more than a few times.

�Elrond, what is it?� His friend had not reacted to his first query.

�This� this�� Elrond found he could not speak and instead he handed the parchment to his friend.

Glorfindel took it almost hesitantly, not sure he really wanted to know what it contained if it could reduce his friends to this.

He could only stare at his hands, they were shaking slightly. He looked up to find Elrond�s eyes on him and the look in them� they were almost haunted and Thranduil. Well, Thranduil was hugging Legolas to him as if he was already lost to him.

He finally gathered the courage and opened the missive. Once he had finished he knew exactly why the other two had reacted to this in the way that they had. He passed it silently to Mithrandir, unable to speak.

He could see the twins and Estel looking puzzled at the elder Elves reaction. But he did not have the heart to tell them what he had just learnt of from the letter.

It does not take much to shock a Wizard and it is a rare sight indeed. But those in the chamber that was aware enough for it to register could only marvel half dazed at the sight of Mithrandir in a towering temper for the first time in their acquaintance.

�I swear, by the Valar that when we catch these� beings, they are not Elves to me, they will wish that they had never been born. I promise to you, Thranduil that I will aide you all I can in this. We will find them.� Mithrandir could not believe what he had just read.

Estel looked at his brother�s, they seemed as unsure of what was going on as he was. Elladan being nearest rescued the parchment from the Maia�s fingers.

The three of them gathered around so that they could all read it. Estel felt the blood rush from his face as his heart seemed to be beating so fast he thought it would burst out of his chest.

Elladan closed his eyes for a moment, before opening them once more, hoping that he had just dreamed this. But the reality was there in his hands.

Elrohir chose the vocal route, for once not earning a telling off from his father for his language.

Estel made him self read the letter again.

�Who or what is Polinias?� Somehow Estel�s voice was calm and steady.

�Polinias was my father�s closest friend. He was with us at the last battle of the Last Alliance. He was at my side when my father was killed. He went berserk I have never known an Elf loose control like that.� Thranduil could only shake his head at the memory. �He took out twenty Orc within minutes, he was like a whirlwind. He only fell after one Orc cut through his legs. I killed that Orc.� His tone was still icy cold.

�What happened then?� Elrohir�s question was tentative, he did not wish to cause the Elf King further pain, but they needed to know why Legolas had been poisoned.

�Then, Isildur cut the ring from Sauron�s finger and your father took him to destroy it in Mount Doom. The Orc army fled and were destroyed. I stayed with Polinias, his wounds were grievous and I did not expect him to live. But live he did and I was joyful.� Thranduil�s voice dropped slightly. �I still had a link to my father, or so I thought.� His eyes once again hardened.

�What do you mean, or so you thought?� Estel could only ask, unsure of what the King meant.

�When we arrived back in Great Greenwood, as it was known then, he had changed. We had discovered on the journey home that his injuries would lead to lasting disability. The muscles in the back of his legs had been completely severed and he would never walk again.� Thranduil turned to Elrond who nodded before taking up the story.

�Once everything was settled back in Imladris, Glorfindel and I travelled here to see if there was anything we could do. There was not after Polinias learnt that he would never regain his mobility he changed. Drastically.� Elrond could still recall his horror at seeing the young Elf so hurt.

�He blamed firstly my father. He said that we should never have gone into battle that Men�s wars had nothing to do with the Eldar. He went from loving friend to hatred in the drop of a coin. I will never forget the thing�s he said about my father, never.� He looked down at his son for a long minute until he was once more in control of his feelings. It still hurt even after all this time.

�After my coronation he some how started to believe that he was the true Heir to Great Greenwood. It caused much debate and hurt. He never was in line and he had no royal lineage. It never stopped him.�

�I thought at the time, and I still do, that the injuries to his legs drove him mad. You could not speak any sense with him. He was the rightful King and not Thranduil.� Elrond could only smile grimly at the shock on his son�s faces.

�It all came to ahead two hundred and fifty years after the last battle. As these people do, he had gathered many supporters who literally hung on every word that he said. It was very sad that it had to end the way that it did.�

�How did it end?� Elladan was as horrified as the others.

It was his father who answered, though. �He committed suicide. He gave one big meeting with his followers and he told them that I had driven him to this action by not taking his claim seriously. He told them to carry on his work until his son was finally able to take over the Crown. He slit his own wrists. His wife and son found him. He was only an Elfling at the time.�

�Valar!� Was all that Elladan could say, the thought of finding anyone after they had done that did not bear thinking of.

�Yes, as you say.� Thranduil gave a grim mirthless grin.

�What happened to his son?� Estel was thinking over what he had just heard.

�He and his mother left Mirkwood, they founded a colony somewhere in the north and we never heard from them again. One after another his followers joined them. I thought the whole matter had died along with Polinias. It seems I was wrong with that as well. How could they target Legolas? Look at him he is no threat to them!� Thranduil could not hide his frustration.

�Have there been any Elves return to Mirkwood?� Mithrandir had stayed silent through this, he already knew the story after all.

�I do not know. I would have to as Galion.� Thranduil was reluctant to leave Legolas even with his old friend�s.

Mealena saved him from worrying about that. �I will go and get him.� He did not wait and he left the chamber before anyone could speak.

He returned soon after with a very worried looking Galion. �My Lord, there has been an attack against the Prince?�

�Yes, Galion and we have a good idea as to why. Tell us have there been any Elves returning to Mirkwood since I have been gone?� Thranduil smiled at his old friend. There were some who he would and did, trust with his life and Legolas as well.

�Yes, we have had five such groups. The Orc and Spider attacks have driven some of the outlying settlements into returning. From what I gathered the attacks have been particularly vicious with a lot of lives lost.� Galion was watching Legolas with deep worry, he really did not like the young Elf�s colour.

�That is ill news, indeed.� Thranduil sighed, every day the darkness seemed to encroach on the forest that was his home. How he hated this that his people lived in a constant state of war. It would also mean that they would have to whittle the list down. �How big are the groups?�

�They all have numbered more than fifteen. They all looked to be very ill fed, as well.� Galion tried to help as much as her could.

�Organise with Cook to make sure that each of them has enough to eat. I do not want any to loose out because of this darkness. Also make sure that they have somewhere to stay for the time being. Emergency Flet�s should be easily erected.� Thranduil stopped at the look on the twin�s faces as well as mirrored on the Ranger�s.

�What? What is it?� He looked down at Legolas for one minute sure that something was wrong. He was still unconscious.

�They could be behind this and you are going to treat them like honoured guests!� Elladan could not believe what he had heard.

�Elladan that is enough!� Elrond could not believe his son could act like that.

�It is alright, Elrond.� Thranduil turned to the youngsters once more. �They are my people and we do not know they are all behind this. It could be just one or two. How could I let innocents suffer for a handful of Elves. No they will be treated civilly until I know otherwise.�

�I agree with you, Thranduil.� Mithrandir was proud of the King, even after all this he was still a good leader. One whom his father would be very proud of. The Maia knew that he was honoured to hold Thranduil as one of his friend�s.

�Thank you, Mithrandir. Galion, I will need to speak with these groups, one at a time. We need to find these Elves. Also I need to talk with the kitchen staff as well; I need to know who was working this afternoon that could come into contact with the food prepared for Legolas.� Thranduil knew he could leave Galion in charge of this.

�As you wish, my Lord.� Galion bowed his eyes never once leaving Legolas. He had heard the messenger�s gossip from earlier that afternoon. He had dismissed them as being fanciful, but now? Now he was not so sure.

He hurried from the chamber, praying that the Prince that they all loved would remain with them here on Middle Earth and not join his mother in Mandos Halls. Mirkwood would not survive another loss in the Royal family and he himself would suffer greatly, Legolas had always been like a nephew to him rather than a Prince.

Mealena watched as his other oldest friend left the room, he could understand the thoughts going through Galion�s mind. He felt the same, when Legolas had collapsed for one long, long minute he thought he had lost his Godson. Even know Legolas was too limp and pallid for his liking and he was more than grateful that Elrond could and was taking care of Legolas in his stead.

As he watched from his corner Elrond moved back to Legolas� side and examined him once more.

Thranduil watched every movement that his friend had made; he had after all been scared very badly not long before.

Elrond smiled, trying to offer reassurance but he knew all too well how it felt to have a son who was so clearly ill. Between the four of them, both fathers� knew how that felt. They often came home with injuries of differing severity.

He gently lifted the limp wrist once more and counted the beat. He was silent a little too long for Thranduil�s liking. �Well?�

�His pulse is still a little fast for my liking. I will need some more Millern Bark. � Glorfindel already had the bark ready and was rolling it to make a pulp. With a smile of thanks, albeit distracted he placed the mixture on the gum line, gently rubbing it in.

�Why are you putting it there?� Thranduil watched almost fascinated.

�There are more arteries and veins in the mouth, it has the most in the body. The important thing is that if you put either herbs ort bark in this area it works all the more faster. If we gave this to Legolas in a tea it would probably take thirty minutes or more to work, this way it is almost instantaneous.�

�Oh, good thank you.� Thranduil was pleased at the answer. If it meant that Legolas would get well, Elrond could do what he wanted.

�He should wake soon, I promise.� Elrond placed his hand on the King�s shoulder.

�Thank you, Mellon-nin, I once again need to thank you.� Thranduil knew that he would never be able to thank Elrond enough for all that he had done for Legolas.

�So we wait?� Estel spoke once more from where he sat by the fire.

�Yes, now we wait. But it should not be long. Why do we not finish this game of Chess while we wait?� Elrond smiled at his youngest son.

Soon they were all quietly enjoying the game even as they surreptitiously watched the young Prince.

He still had not woken by the time night fell and Thranduil could not help but worry. Elrond talked him into taking some rest, saying that he would stay with Legolas while he slept.

It did not take him long to fall asleep. Elrond had after all slipped some herbs into the wine that he had given him.

It was just passed midnight that Elladan realised he was hungry. Elrohir quickly agreed and Elrond watched with amusement as they left the chamber to head to the kitchen, Estel order to bring some food for him ringing in their ears.

They quickly made their way down the corridors towards the kitchen, each had been here so often that they knew the way without thinking. So intent were they on being silent and not alerting the Cook, who they knew would come after them if they woke him, that they were unaware that they were being watched. Elladan went for the cold room to see what meats there was and Elrohir stayed by the door watching out in case they were seen. This was an old game that they played with the cook.

A sharp blow to his head sent Elrohir to the ground, blood spilling quickly from the wound. He did not make a sound.

Silence fell.

It was broken by Elladan calling out to his brother. �Ro? Come here I need some help to carry this back. Ro?�

When he got no joy he came out into the main chamber, looking for his brother. A blow caught him from behind and sent him to his knees, but did not knock him out. He looked up hazily, the blow had stunned him. A face came into view and he managed to get his mouth to work. �You!�

�Me.� Another blow sent Elladan onto the floor unconscious. The Elf stood back pleased with his work. He left Elrohir where he was lying in his own pool of blood a piece of parchment laid near his right hand

Elladan he picked up and swinging him over his shoulder he left the room. Thing�s had gone exactly to plan.

Chapter Eight

Legolas� chamber was calm and peaceful. Elrond was with Mealena in the corner chopping herbs and roots while discussing the latest herb finds. The Elf Lord would readily admit that this was one part of his job that he loved, to share knowledge with another healer.

Glorfindel and Estel were currently engaged in a very closely fought game of chess that they were both enjoying greatly.

Mithrandir though, was sat by the crackling fire, gazing off into space, lost to thought. His pipe was cold and unlit in his hand, although he puffed at it absent minded. How he wished he could light his old friend it did help him to think more clearly. There was something about the note that Thranduil had received that disturbed him and he did not know yet just what it was.

Thranduil was lying on the bed next to Legolas still sleeping off the drugs that Elrond had slipped into his tea. Legolas was still unconscious; his skin tone was still a bluish grey that matched with the lingering cyanosis around his lips.

No one noted just how long the twins had been gone and probably would not have noticed for a while, if it had not been for Estel�s stomach letting out a mighty great rumble.

He was embarrassed as everyone awake in the room laughed at this, blushing brightly.

�Should the twins have been back by now?� Estel tried to take the spotlight off of him self. Know that he thought about it, they had been gone a while. They were probably trying to eat as much as they could for themselves before returning to the chamber.

�Hmm, may hap we should go and relinquish them of your food, Estel.� There was a real twinkle in the Istar�s eyes as he looked at the young human. They all knew all too well how hungry he could become.

Elrond�s right eye began its acrobatics once more as he turned to his old friend.

�Do not encourage him; he is incorrigible as it is. As for the twin�s, they must be trying to eat more before they get him and deprive this poor, starving human. What can I do with them all?� Elrond tried to look serious but it was nigh impossible with Estel�s look of outraged indignation. But what finished him was Glorfindel�s snort of very un-Elf like laughter. Mealena was trying to be diplomatic and hide his mirth, his brown eyes gave him away, they were twinkling madly and Estel could see that he was biting the inside of his cheeks.

Within minutes, much to Estel�s bemused frustration both Elves and Maia were laughing, very much at his expense.

�I am not incorrigible, that is the twin�s. You get us muddled up every time!� That only set the three off more as they looked at Estel.

�Forget it! I am going to go and find some food before the two of them lay waste to the kitchen�s and leave us no food what so ever.� Estel threw his hands up, secretly pleased that everyone in the room who could were smiling, it was nice to see.

Mithrandir stood and replaced his pipe into its safe place in his staff. �I will join you, I find myself in need of sustenance as well. Can we bring you back anything?� he turned to the still madly grinning pair.

�Nay, I am fine, Glorfindel?� The Balrog Slayer waved them off, still laughing.

The door had just closed behind them when low groans from behind them, made them swiftly turn.

They were just in time to see two very blood shot blue eyes blinking open. Elrond moved swiftly to the Princes� side.

�Easy, Legolas just get your bearings.� Mealena was there with a glass of fresh cool water. Between them they helped him sit up and Elrond held the glass to his mouth. He watched relieved when Legolas took the fluid with no difficulties.

Once he had finished they helped to get Legolas comfortable with pillows supporting him. They stood back and looked at him critically.

If Legolas had not been feeling so awful he would have been uneasy at the three worried looks that he was currently receiving. As it was his attention was caught by the sight of his father asleep on the bed next to him. He looked up quickly, blinking as his vision blurred.

�He is asleep.� One blue eye rose at that. �It is just my trusty tea at work.� Elrond winked at the Prince before smiling outright at the dawning comprehension in Legolas� eyes.

�H� he w� will n� not b� be h� happy.� Legolas was looking at him with undisguised awe.

�I can and will deal with that eventuality. More tea may be the answer.� Elrond winked at the stunned Prince who could not help but laugh weakly.

�How do you feel?� He sat next to the Prince on his bed, watching him closely.

�B� Bad, w� what h� happened?� The confusion was clear to see.

�What do you remember?� Elrond asked noticing the others had joined him and were flanking him.

�S� soup. S� soup w� was b� bad.� Legolas frowned trying to recall. He remembered the burning, the feeling of suffocating.

�Yes, Legolas the soup was bad.� Elrond gave a small smile at the description, it was amazingly apt. �The soup had been tampered with; you have been treated and are well. It just gave both you and everyone here a very bad shock.� Elrond would have to say that that was the understatement of his life. He would never forget that minute when Legolas had gone slack in his arms. His own fear mirrored on every face in the chamber.

�T� tam� tampw�� Legolas closed his eyes in frustration both at the pain that was blossoming just behind his eyes and the fact that he really, really could not say the word as he knew he was able to.

�Yes, Legolas it was tampered with, we have no idea who did this or why.� It was not his place to explain to the Prince what had happened in the past, he was thankful that it was in fact Thranduil�s right to do that.

�O� oh.� Legolas could not help but wince at the Elves grouped in front of him, it was the only way he could keep his eyes from blurring.

�Do you have a headache again, Legolas?� Elrond had not missed the tell tale signs, he had become very used to this over the last few weeks. Mealena was already moving to make the tea using the fresh herbs and roots that they had prepared earlier.

�Y� yes, b� bad. D� dif d� difwi.� Legolas could only sigh, what the Valor was wrong with him?

�I am sorry, Legolas I did not get that.� Elrond was frowning once more, Legolas had not been having this much trouble with his speech before.

�C� Can n� not s� say I�it.� Legolas felt as if he could scream, he hated this.

�I understand it will become easier. I will not leave you like this.� Elrond brushed the tangled stray hair from the pallid, grey face. Legolas had been ill and injured for far too long.

�H� Hawo�. T� thank y� you.� The truth of those words was there for all to see.

�You have no need to thank me.� Elrond took the tea from Mealena. This time it was Glorfindel who helped him aid Legolas. Elrond noted with a sharp thrill of worry that Legolas, proud mighty Legolas who would never admit to needing help, did not even try to object. Something was wrong, something was very wrong. He could feel it.

He had just opened his mouth to speak the words when the door to the chamber flew open with a bang. It even woke Thranduil.

It was Estel and he looked frantic. His hands were covered in something that looked incredibly like silvery blood.

�Ada, we need help.� Estel was panting, his heart thudding after his race from the kitchen. �Elrohir� you have to come!� He did not even notice that his best friend was awake. All he could think of was the sight of Elrohir lying in a pool of his own blood.

Elrond did not even get chance to try to speak because Estel was literally pulling him from the bed. Mealena though seemed to realise that something was badly wrong and he grabbed his herb bag from the side of the wall and hurried to Elrond.

�Come, my Lord we can sort this out between us.�

�I will stay with Legolas. Glorfindel, you go and help too. If Elrohir is involved in all likelihood Elladan is nearby too.� There was command in Thranduil�s voice and to his secret amusement, not one of them objected to it but just gave a nod and left the room.

Soon there was just Legolas and Thranduil left in the chamber and the King gave a small start as Legolas� shaky hand touched his arm. It was then that he realised his son was awake.

�Ion-nin, I was so scared! Please never do that to me again. I love you so much, Legolas.� There were tears in his eyes as he hugged his son to him.

Neither Estel nor Mithrandir spoke as they made their way through the deserted Palace towards the kitchens. Both of them expected to meet the grinning twins at any moment. In fact Estel would not put it past them to try and pull a prank even at this time of the night. He knew his brothers and they would think this was the perfect time.

They both began to grow worried as they reached the large cavernous chamber that housed the main kitchen. It appeared to be empty.

Or at least that was what they thought until Estel tripped over the prone body on the floor. He somehow managed to catch him self. Mithrandir was immediately on the floor beside the fallen Elf.

Elrohir was on his stomach his left arm tucked underneath him. His right arm was stretched out before him. Blood, both fresh and congealed, was pooled around his head. Mithrandir reached for the pale neck, searching for a pulse.

He sat back with a small sigh. Watching as Estel brushed the dark hair away from the still face. They could both see the spreading bruises over the porcelain skin. His hand came away covered in fresh blood.

�Go; get your father, Estel I will stay with Elrohir. You can move faster than I can.� For one minute he thought Estel was going to argue before his senses returned to him and with one stricken look at Elrohir he ran from the room.

Mithrandir removed his outer tunic to lay over Elrohir and as he was sitting back he took notice of the white parchment that lay in Elrohir�s hand.

He gently removed it noting Elrond�s name written on the front. He put it in his pocket for safe keeping, unsure as to why Elrohir would have it in his hand. It was then that he realised there was another who was still missing. He stood and searched the room for Elladan. He noticed the patch of blood that was near to Elrohir but was also isolated from him.

He was still frowning when he heard the sound of running feet, a great many feet. He reached for Glamdring only to stop when he heard Estel calling his name. They all knew the old wizard well and none wanted to be on the end of his well thrown sword.

Soon Estel, Elrond, Glorfindel and Mealena were in the chamber with him. Elrond immediately made his way to Elrohir side. Worry written plainly on his face.

�His pulse is nice and steady. Is Elladan nearby?� He gently brushed the hair from Elrohir�s face, noting the deep bruising and also the long jagged cut that still oozed steadily from his head.

�He is not here. There is more blood over there but I can find no other trace of him.� Mithrandir was watching Elrond as he quickly examined his son.

�Help me turn him over, I think he has just been knocked out, but I need to check his pupil reactions.� Glorfindel helped him to turn Elrohir. They stopped as Elrohir moaned beneath his breath at the treatment. They waited until he settled once more.

His face was caked with both congealed and wet blood, giving him a horrific look. His eyes were also closed. Elrond gently pulled one eyelid back watching as the pupil contracted and the returned to their normal size. He swiftly followed this with his other eye. Then he gently, very gently palpated his sons head. Relieved when he found no movement.

He sat back. �He has a concussion, but it is only minor. He was hit with some force though. We need to move him out of here.� They all helped and it was not long before Elrohir was being carried into Legolas� chamber. Not one word was spoken as he was gently placed next to the sleeping Prince.

�Where is Elladan? � Thranduil asked with confusion.

�We know not. The kitchen was empty apart from Elrohir.� Glorfindel sounded angry and Thranduil reflected that he had every right to be. He him self was fuming, how dare they attack his friends. When he found them they would pay, that he promised him self.

�I found this.� Mithrandir held out the parchment to Elrond.

The Elf Lord took it with surprise. He opened it and his anger rose. How dare they!

�Elrond?� Glorfindel�s voice was soft with worry. Elrond handed him the letter.

They all watched as he read it allowed.

Thranduil sighed before looking at his friend. �I am sorry, Mellon-nin. I can not let them harm Elladan; I will make sure he is brought safely back to you.� The King stood and made his way to the chamber door.

�What are you going to do?� Elrond thought he knew, but he hoped he was wrong.

�I am going to concede to their wishes.�

A chorus of �No!� Echoed in the chamber.

Thranduil turned his face looking suddenly old and worn. �What else can I do when they attack my guests? I can not let them harm Elladan.�

�Thranduil if you give into them now, all your work will have been for nothing. Do you want Mirkwood to be completely taken by the shadow? Only you and Legolas are halting it. Without you it wins. Elladan would not want that. I would not want that. You can not abdicate, I will not let you.�

�What do I do?� Thranduil looked and sounded beaten.

�We plan, Mellon-nin. We watch and wait while we plan. They will make a wrong move and when they do we will be waiting.� Elrond kept his voice steady and firm. As much as his heart cried out to Elladan he firmly believed what he had just said to his friend.

�We will be with you every step of the way.� Glorfindel was standing there with them. The promise of retribution written firmly on his features.

�They will regret the day that they decided they wanted Mirkwood. We will make them pay for crimes that they have committed.� Mithrandir�s words were punctuated with a thud from his staff and Mealena watching from where he cleaning the gore from Elrohir�s face actually felt sorry for the poor misguided creatures who had decided to cross this formidable set of friends.

�What do we do first?� Thranduil closed the chamber door and had crossed back to the bed. Guilt and worry telegraphed in every move.

�The first thing we do is this, we wait for Elrohir to waken he may have seen his attackers.� Elrond was watching the other healer work with pride; he had taught the other well. �In the morning I want to speak with the cook. I want none of our food to come from the kitchen. We can not take the risk that it could be tampered with once more.�

�I agree. It is likely that as the time goes on we will all become targets.� Mithrandir was warming his hands over the fire. Legolas and Elrohir especially as they have already been attacked. Thranduil and you Elrond, as you are an old friend of long standing.� the twinkle appeared for a short moment as he looked at the two Elves. �You are also one of Legolas� long term defenders. They may target you for that alone.�

�Great, not only does he bring his troubles to Rivendell but he drags us into them here in Mirkwood.� Elrond grumbled under his breath. They all knew he did not mean it; they would all do what ever they could for the Prince.

�Yes, I could see him dragging you screaming and crying behind him, Elrond.� Thranduil�s voice held just the right shade of dryness. The wide smile from Elrond was his reward.

�Estel should also be in that number. They have intimated that they were after him as well.� Glorfindel�s voice was a near growl.

�That would be wise; we can not let any of you to fall into their hands.� Mithrandir was once more reading both of the notes again.

�I want to know where our food is prepared and I want to make sure that no one can get to the food. Legolas can not take another attack like the last time; his body is too weak at present.� Elrond could not help but worry about the Prince.

�I will make sure that can be arranged. I will also make sure that not one of us leaves these chambers without a guard and they will be of my own personal guards.� Thranduil could at least make sure of that. His guards had been with him for centuries and were the crème de al crème of Mirkwood�s warriors.

�Good. It may be wise to speak with the guards and keep them on the look out for anything unusual.� Glorfindel did not look particularly pleased with the thought of having a guard and would have been out spoken on this particular requirement. But he caught sight of Elrond�s face and promptly changed his mind.

�That is also a wise idea. We all need to get some sleep. As I have already had some.� Thranduil glowered at Elrond who had the grace to look ashamed. �I will look after Legolas and Elrohir.�

It was quickly agreed, but before Elrond would try to get some sleep, he insisted on making some of the tea in case Legolas needed it. No one really wanted to leave the room, so Thranduil made certain that palettes were brought into Legolas� chamber and set up for them. It did not take long before every one of them was asleep and Thranduil took his place by Legolas� side.

Elrohir woke just after dawn, he was confused and then very worried about Elladan after Thranduil had very gently told him of his brothers abduction.

Elrohir had then fallen silent as he lay there trying to understand what had happened. He tried to reach down inside of him, to feel for the spark that was his brother. The part of him that told him that he was not alone in this world.

It always felt good to know that the spark that they shared was there. He searched and searched within him but all he could find was a dark empty space.

Chapter Nine

Thranduil could see that the younger twin was becoming more distressed by the minute. He did not truly know what was going on with Elrohir and he did not really know what to do. He made for the pallet that Elrond was sleeping on.

�Elrond, Elrohir needs you, he is very upset about Elladan.� He gently shook his friend.

Elrond was awake within seconds at his friend�s words. He rose and silently made his way over to the bed. He took in his son�s distress within moments. And he was soon hugging Elrohir as he tried to find out what was wrong. He was dimly aware that although the others in the room remained sleeping Glorfindel had also joined them.

�I cannot hear him, Ada Elladan is gone. I am so empty.� Elrond had never seen his son this upset. Tears were running unheeded down his cheeks.

�Shush, it will be fine. You will see it may just be he is deeply unconscious. Elladan will be alright.� As Elrond said this, he could only pray that he was right. He knew all too well the deep bonds that twins have. He was a twin him self after all.

�But it is empty, Ada. Where Elladan is normally it is empty.� Elrohir�s cries were getting louder and at Elrond�s nod Glorfindel made for the temporary herb table and began to mix a tea that would both calm Elrohir down and help him to rest.

Elrond helped him to drink it; the reaction to his twins feeling of loss left Elrohir�s hands shaking too much. Soon he was resting his head on his father�s shoulder calm once more. It did not take long before he was asleep.

Elrond, though, would not let him go. If Elladan was truly lost to them then he would loose Elrohir as well. They were too close for it to be any other way. Legolas would also be affected; they had been friends for Millennia after all.

Silence fell once more. It was broken by Thranduil. �Is he alright?�

�For the moment, we need to find Elladan soon, though or I fear for Elrohir.� Saying that Elrond took a deep breath and closing his eyes reached for the bond that he had with his two sons�. Elrohir�s he found straight away. It was vibrant, flowing and full of the essence that was Elrohir. Elrond had to smile despite him self. This was his son, so full of life and wonder.

Then he reached for Elladan. It was at first how Elrohir had identified it. Instead of the matching thread that intertwined the twins, there was a big black void, so deep and so all consuming that it took his breath away. He felt his whole being shudder and then� And then�

Then right down deep into the darkness was a tiny glint of light. It was so small that if he had not been keeping careful watch he would have missed it. He �dove� towards it, shutting out the darkness that surrounded the spark of life. The nearer he got to it the lighter his heart grew.

It was Elladan, weak yes, but he was still alive. As he closed in on the weak glimmer, he tried to pour some of his strength into his son. The light flared and grew with the contact and just as Elrond had to draw back, he knew his son while not safe, was still with them.

As he came back to him self he realised that Glorfindel was holding him up. The two Elves that had been with him were watching him with concern.

He gave a weak smile to try and reassure them. �He is still alive, I can feel him. Elladan is weak, but I have given him some of my strength.� He raised a shaky hand to his face.

�No wonder you are so shaken. I�ll make you some tea that will help.� Glorfindel frowned down at his friend before moving off. Thranduil took his place, smiling at him with relief.

�That is good news, Elrond I know it must be a big relief for you.� He placed a hand on his friends shoulder and gave it a squeeze.

�Yes, it is. They do like to scare us like this, do they not?� He smiled fondly down at his son.

�Yes, but imagine how boring it would be without them!� Thranduil could not help but tease. He could fully identify with Elrond�s feelings. �Will Elrohir be alright?�

Thranduil gently took Elrohir from Elrond�s arms as Glorfindel handed him the hot sweet tea that he had made.

�Yes, once he wakens and find�s that Elladan is still with him, he will be fine.� Elrond sighed as he drank the warm and welcome fluid. �How is Legolas?� He turned to look at the still sleeping Prince.

�He has not stirred. He seems to be resting well.� Thranduil could not hide his worry. He had honestly thought that once Legolas was back in Mirkwood he would be well, that his injury would heal quickly. Even when he realised that Legolas would not recover in an instant as he thought, he did not think it would take as long as it would appear. He knew now that this was wrong, it was going to take his son a long time to heal.

Elrond made his way to the other side of the bed as Thranduil gently settled Elrohir back onto the bed. Elrond stopped beside the bed and Thranduil joined him as they looked own at the sleeping Prince.

It was immediately obvious to him that while Legolas was sleeping, it was not a peaceful sleep. Far from it, he was shivering underneath the mound of blankets. No longer the fine trembles of earlier, these were really hard shakes and Elrond had to wonder why they had not noticed this before.

Legolas� face was also pulled back into a slight grimace, his burrow deeply furrowed. Elrond reached out and gently took the thin wrist into his own much larger hand.

Thranduil had to look away from the sight. He had never in all of his years thought of his son as delicate and weak. But that was how it looked at this moment. Legolas� wrist looked so thin that it would not take much to snap it. That thought alone made him feel nauseous.

Glorfindel watched as Elrond counted the beats beneath his fingers. Gently Elrond returned the shaking hand back under the blankets, making sure that it was fully covered.

�Glorfindel, can you make a plain tea? Legolas is far too cold. Thranduil could you see to��

His friend was gone from his side and he turned to find the King stoking the brazier that stood at the end of the bed. He had to smile; it was almost as if at times the three long term friend�s could read each others mind. This was just what he had wanted Thranduil to do.

Once Thranduil had finished with the brazier he made his way over to the wide fireplace and began the job of banking that up so that there was enough fuel to last the remainder of the night. They would need to have the stocks of wood replenished in the morning.

When he had finished he made his way back to the bed and Legolas. It did not take long before he was sitting with his back against the carved bed head, his son once more cradled in his arms.

He stayed like this until Elrond approached them with the tea. Glorfindel was once more re-wrapping the hot bricks prior to changing them, so Thranduil and Elrond gently fed Legolas the tea. Both of them felt their worry grow as Legolas continued to lie still, showing no sign that he was aware of what was being done to him.

�Elrond, should he?� Thranduil broke off at Elrond�s shake.

�Later, we need to get this into him first. We will talk in a while.� He looked up as Glorfindel pulled the covers up from Legolas� legs and removed the cold bricks and replaced them with the fresh ones.

When the tea was finished Thranduil settled Legolas back down on the bed and covered him before making his way with the two other Elves to talk about what Elrond had found.

�What is it?� There was trepidation in the King�s voice as he looked at his worried face.

�His pulse is still far too high for my liking. If it is the same in the morning I will give him some more of the herb. Legolas is in pain, that much is obvious, but I cannot give him any more herbs for the time being. As soon as I dare I will administer them.� He looked up at his old friend and continued. �I will take another look in the morning; I want him to be awake for this. I need to gauge what is going on here and I need to see his reactions.�

�It is bad?� Thranduil�s voice was soft as he gazed at his son across the room. Could it be that after all that had happened he would still loose his cherished son?

�Yes, but hopefully we can put a stop to this. Legolas is going to need even more support from us I fear.� Elrond could not stop the sigh as he tiredly pinched his nose.

�He will have it.� Five voices spoke at once causing three to jump. They had not realised that Estel and Mithrandir were awake.

�He will need it.� Elrond�s voice was grim.

�We need more rest, Thranduil try and get some sleep; I will look after Legolas and Elrohir.� Glorfindel�s voice brokered no argument. �As for the rest of you, back to be.�

The night following that was relatively quiet.

The morning was grey and dismal. A light misting of rain fell, the king of rain that completely saturates anything and everything that it falls upon. The forest around the palace was still and silent. It was the kind of day when not even Elves liked to be abroad and they in turn were warm in their Flet�s.

Inside Mirkwood�s palace the residents began to stir. Down in the kitchen Simnella was baking the bread that would be used for the forthcoming day. Porridge was already bubbling in its pan. Kitchen staff hurried around to complete their tasks before the morning meal was called.

Outside the unfortunate few who had to stand guard at all of the entrances to the palace were making the change over and their soaked predecessors made their way to their own homes to dry themselves and have some rest.

Inside much the same was happening at the door of the Prince�s chamber. Inside activity could be heard as the occupants made themselves ready for the day.

Thranduil and Elrond left the chamber so that they could speak with Simnella about the provisions that they would need for the forthcoming days. Simnella came up with a surprisingly good idea and leaving his most senior cook to finish the preparation of the morning meal, he gathered all that he felt he may need and followed the two Lord�s to his Prince�s chamber.

For the duration of this threat Simnella would be cooking all the food that would be needed. If he had to use the large kitchen then he would have a couple of guards with him and one on the door to make sure that the food could not be tampered with.

Thranduil was pleased with this arrangement and soon he was back with his still sleeping son, watching as Simnella prepared their morning meal for them. He smiled at the humming Elf as he prepared the thin porridge for Legolas before giving it to Elrond so that he could add the vitamins and minerals that the Prince needed.

Waking Legolas up was another matter altogether. No matter how hard Thranduil shook he Legolas stayed stubbornly unresponsive. He threw a worried look at Elrond and the other elf quickly made it to his side.

�What is wrong?� Every head in the room, even Elrohir�s whose head was thumping with the after effect of the blow to his head, looked up at the quiet words.

�I cannot wake him up.� Thranduil�s voice revealed just how close to panic he was. It was a rare thing to behold.

�Let me try.� And try Elrond did, with little success. The entire room seemed to hold its breath as they watched; Finally Elrond did the only thing that was left to him. He hated doing it as this was the one area of an Elf�s body that was the most sensitive. He reached and took one of the Prince�s elegant pointed ears between his index finger and thumb. Taking a deep breath he squeezed the fleshy part and waited for a reaction.

Nothing happened.

He repeated his actions, this time he got a low moan in response and Legolas� brow furrowed even more.

�Come, Legolas it is time for you to waken.� Elrond kept his voice light and calm.

Slowly the bruised looking eyelids slid open revealing confused blue eyes.

�You are doing well. It is morning and you need to have something to eat.� Elrond smiled down at him.

�N� No.�

�Legolas you need to eat.� Elrond frowned him self now.

�N� No. N� not h� hug�� Legolas frowned as he heard the last word.

�I will not argue with you, Legolas but you are going to eat at least some of this porridge.� Elrond�s voice was firm and brokered no arguing.

�N� No.� The old stubborn look crossed Legolas face. A look they had not seen for some time.

�Ion-nin, you have got to eat. Let me help you.� Thranduil took the bowl from Elrond and sat beside his son. Lifting the partially filled spoon he put it to the pouting mouth. He received a glare for his pains.

�Legolas.� The tone was low and held a deep warning in the words.

Legolas reluctantly opened his mouth and his father smiled at him with relief. That was why he did not expect what happened next.

Legolas lifted his badly shaking arm and caught hold of the bowl and before Thranduil could stop him he threw it across the room. It held little velocity as Legolas was far too weak. It just happened that at that minute Estel was coming back into the chamber having just used the bath chamber.

The bowl of porridge landing squarely on his front. He could only gape as the bowl fell to the floor with a clang. Porridge dripped slowly to the floor.

Surprise stilled them all and then Thranduil turned to his son, furious at his behaviour. �Legolas that was uncalled for. I am disgusted with you. What on Arda made you do such a thing?� Furious icy blue eyes met with equally furious icy blue ones.

�N� No.�

�You will apologise to Estel, this instant.�

�N� No.�

�Legolas, what on Middle Earth has gotten into you?!� As angry as he was, Thranduil knew that this was not his son he knew so well acting like this. His thought�s turned to the conversation with Elrond weeks before when his friend had warned him that Legolas would have little control over his emotions because of the head injury. Could this be the cause of this?

�B� Bad.�

�Legolas, Simnella prepared this for you with all of us watching him. It is not bad.� Thranduil tried to keep a hold on his legendary temper.

�B� Bad.�

Elrond was frowning as he watched this little drama play out, even if he did want to laugh at the sight of his youngest wearing the porridge, shock and amazement written over his features as he stared at the Prince.

The Elf Lord stood and made his way to the stunned cook�s side; he had never seen his Prince act like this and was too stunned to do anything.

�Simnella, did you use all of the porridge?� That caught Thranduil�s attention.

�A little is left. Let me get it for you.� The Elf made his way back to the fire and filled a bowl with what was left of the porridge. He handed it to Elrond.

Elrond accepted it and raised it to his nose and took a sniff, the bitter smell flooded his senses. He quickly pulled away from the bowl. From a short distance there was no smell, but up close.

�Elrond?�

�It has been tampered with.� he handed the bowl to Thranduil who sniffed it tentatively before drawing back in shock.

�But how?� Simnella�s distress was all too obvious.

�What did you use?� Elrond knew the cook was not to blame, he could tell by looking at him that his distress was genuine.

�Fresh milk that was gathered this morning, oats that we always stock and then honey as the Prince likes his porridge sweet.�

�Show me.� Elrond followed as they made their way to the small table that now housed Simnella�s provisions.

Thranduil closed his eyes, if it had been for him, Legolas would have consumed the food. Then what would have happened?

�I am sorry, Ion-nin I should have realised.� His reply was a weak squeeze of his hand.

They both watched as Elrond sniffed the ingredients. The milk and oats were quickly passed over. The jar of honey how ever was not. One sniff made Elrond suspicious but the sweet smell masked the other more acrid smell. There was only one thing for it. He looked to Glorfindel.

�Please ready some Millern Bark, I will need to taste this to be completely sure that this is the culprit.�

Glorfindel did so and once the bark was prepared and ready, Elrond took a small drop of the honey. For a few minutes nothing happened and then it began. Without hesitation he took the Bark and rubbed it into his own gum line.

�It is the honey. Who ever is behind this doctored the honey. The smell would have been slightly overpowered by the honey.� Once the bark had done its job Elrond rinsed his mouth out.

�Who would have access to Legolas� honey?� Thranduil turned to Simnella.

�Any who comes into the kitchens, my Lord. It would be easy. I will have the honey removed and destroyed.�

�Thank you, do you have any that is unhampered with?� Thranduil smiled at him, relief that Legolas was alright winning over his previous anger at his son.

�I do not know, Sire but with Lord Elrond�s help we may be able to find that out.� So it was that the cook left the room to carry out this action, returning with three jars of the condiment.

Luckily none of them had been tampered with and they were set aside for use with Legolas� morning meal. Without a word Simnella began to prepare the Prince some more porridge, under the watchful eyes of all apart from Estel who had left to clean up once more.

The first thing he was aware of was that he was cold. Cold and sore. His head was thumping and he felt very nauseous. He tried to raise and arm to rub his eyes only to find that he could not. He tried to open his eyes and found that he was blindfolded.

Fear coursed through him as memory returned. He strained his hearing. All was silent except for the drip, drip of water some where near to him.

Footsteps, light as they were caught his attention. They were coming nearer to him.

He heard something being set down and then who ever this was spoke.

�So, you decided to wake up. Good that makes this that much easier.�

Elladan felt his heart drop. It was as he feared. He tried to blink through the pain in his head and opened his mouth to speak. It was then that he realised that he was gagged and very dry.

�Oh dear, how rude of me. Here let me take that out.� The Elf in front of him did just that, he removed both the gag and the blindfold from around his head. He was speaking as he worked.

�There is no point in crying out, no one will hear you, and there are no others around.�

�You! But why? You are one of Thranduil�s guards.� He could barely croak through the dryness of his mouth.

�Yes, of course me, being a member of that impostors guard gives me more leeway than you can ever imagine. Who would think to check one of his own personal guards? No he never will think to check either.� The Elf had a self satisfied look on his face.

�You are wrong about that. Even as we speak Thranduil is questioning the guards, it will not be long before you are caught.� The pain in his head was growing to a sickening crescendo. If this was how Legolas had been feeling then he pitied him. The pain was simply awful.

�You really think so? I know otherwise. Let me just say that as we speak the poor sickly Prince.� The Elf spat the last word as if it were disgusting. �Has just had another dose of poison. Do you think he will survive this one?� Dark eyes looked into his eyes and they held nothing but complete insanity in that gaze.

Elladan felt his heart drop. He knew that if what this Elf was telling him then Legolas was almost certainly dead. It was then that he realised that Elrohir was not with him. He thanked the Valar for that.

�Why, why are you doing this, Gilaen? What has Legolas done to you?� Elladan glared at his captor.

�Oh the prince has never done a thing to me. But his father? Well his father murdered mine and I vowed the day he died that Thranduil would pay for that. I have waited and been patient, but now it is time for Thranduil to learn what it is like to be severed from one whom you love.�

�Who are you?�

The other Elf laughed and Elladan had to force the shiver it caused down.

�You mean really? My given name is not of Gilaen, I took that name when I began my warrior training. No my real name is Telinia son of Polinias.� He watched the Noldo twin as recognition flitted across the bruised face. �I see you know of me. Good, it makes things a lot easier.�

With that he stood gracefully and took his knife from his boot and reached out for Elladan.

All Elladan could do was wait and swallow, his mouth completely dry as the other mad elf reached out for him.

Chapter Ten

Thranduil sat back with a quiet sigh of frustration. They had all watched Simnella prepare the porridge for Legolas� morning meal, but still his son would only eat a few handful or spoonfuls of the nutritious food.

�Legolas the porridge is un-tampered with, you need to have more.� He somehow, although he really did not know how, kept hold of his normally volatile temper.

�N� No m� mean.� Thranduil looked up startled at that only to find Legolas� brow furrowed once more with confusion.

�What was that, Legolas?� He was as confused as Legolas.

�N� no m� mean.� The spoon that Thranduil was holding stayed where it was wavering mid air as he gaped at his son. Legolas was calling him mean for trying to make him eat?

�Legolas?�

Large frustrated blue eyes looked up at him. �You think I am mean?� Thranduil was well aware that all the others were watching him.

�N� no.�

�Then what?� Thranduil managed to clamp down on the ire that he felt rising.

�Let me try.� Elrond had moved to their side. �Have you had enough of the porridge? You want no more?�

�Y� yes, N� no m� mean.� Again the furrow of that pale brow.

�Legolas, please try and say �no more� for me?� Elrond was frowning him self now.

�N� no m�mean.� There was a quiver of uncertainty in that voice and no one in the room dared even try to breathe as they watched this scene play out.

�Alright, Legolas please try and say Morning for me.�

Legolas� glare told the room that he was not happy with this.

�M� mooning.� He gave a small frustrated sigh.

�It is well, Legolas your words are just a little more muddled, and it will pass. Can you squeeze my hand for me?�

Legolas did so and Elrond had to hide his dismay. The Prince�s right hand was the same as it had been, but the left hand was even weaker than it had been. The same could be said of his left foot.

�Good, now I am going to give you something for that headache I know you have.� Legolas gave a wry smile at this. He could never hide his pain from Elrond even at the best of times. It was uncanny, almost as if he had a second father. But then he reasoned that was exactly what Elrond was.

After he had been given the herbal tea and he had succumbed to the slumber that it also brought, Elrond stood back letting his worry show.

�Elrond, what is it?� There was a clear tremor in the King�s voice.

�He is weaker, much weaker. His left side has worsened, I do not know why. He should be regaining his strength not loosing it.�

�What can we do?� Mithrandir�s voice was low and full of worry.

�Support him; we need to start his exercises as soon as possible, even if he is asleep. We also need to watch him closely; I cannot help but think there is something going on here that we are missing.�

�I agree.� Mithrandir added. �There is something in these letters that puzzles me. They know an awful lot about what is happening here. How did they know that Estel was not in the kitchen when the letter was written? Then there is this second poison why do that again?�

�They are all good and pertinent questions, Mellon-nin. We need to find the answers. There is far more going on here than we know. Far more.� Elrond�s voice had dropped and was thoughtful. Then he turned to Elrohir who was still sat on the bed next to Legolas. �How do you feel now, Ion-nin?�

�Better thank you, Ada my head does not ache as much as it did.�

Elrond smiled down warmly at his son. �Good and your bond with Elladan?�

Elrohir started at his father�s words, they brought back the memories from last evening. He took a deep breathe and closed his eyes, his heart hammering with the thought of what he would find. This time there was no black void, this time his brother�s essence was bright and glowing as it should be.

�It is back!� The beaming smile made them all return the smile. �It is bright and wonderful.� Elrohir felt almost giddy with relief.

�Good, we know that he is well for the moment. You are to rest for the day while we think on what we should do next.� Elrohir tried to object at hearing this but was stalled by his father�s glare.

�Yes, Ada.� His tone was disconsolate.

�Good, I am glad that we understand one another.� Elrond turned to Thranduil. �I also want you to stay with Legolas.�

�Where are you going?� The surprise in the King�s voice was clear.

�Mithrandir, Glorfindel and I are going to do some snooping around. I want to speak with some of the Elves who have returned to Mirkwood, see if they have any idea who may be doing this.�

Thranduil had to hide his own smile at the look of shock on the other two�s face. Obviously they had had as much an idea of what was going on than he did.

�Good and speak with Galion to see if there is anything he can help with. He can show you to the emergency Flet�s that have been set up for them. Be back here for the noonday meal, I do not want a repeat of what has happened with Legolas.� The order was clear in his voice, even though he was speaking to his friends.

�We will, just look after these three and we will be back. Estel, leave Legolas for a short while and then begin massaging his legs. I want to try and sit him up on the side of the bed later this afternoon.� Elrond turned his attention to his foster son.

�Yes, Ada should I use the oil?� Estel was not surprised at this instruction from his father.

�Yes that will help ease any discomfort he may feel. If he wakes at all make sure that he has some of the tea we have been using. He will be in need of it I fear.� With that he signalled to the other two and they left the bedchamber. They passed Mealena on the way out and he wished them a quiet good morning as he passed by them and into the chamber.

The first thing they did was to go and find Galion. They found him in the kitchen making sure that the blood was removed from the floor and that they had all the supplies that was needed. He looked up as they entered the chamber.

�Good Morning, Hir Nin, Mithrandir and Glorfindel what can I do for you this morning?�

�Good morning, Galion. The King said that you could show us to the emergency Talon�s that have been set up for the refugees.�

�Indeed, Hir Elrond they are to the South of the palace and well protected.� Galion stood and led the way from the chamber.

�Has there been anything that makes you uneasy over the last few days? Apart from the Prince? Has there been any incident�s with the Elves around you that makes you wary?� Elrond was watching where they were going. Aware of the guards that Thranduil had ordered to be with them followed at a discreet distance.

�No, apart from the Elves being driven back to the Palace by the darkness that is increasing. There were a lot of rumours regarding Prince Legolas and what may have happened. Apart from that there has been nothing that I can tell you.� Galion led the way to a small copse of trees where they could see the temporary shelter that Thranduil had supplied. All was quiet not even an Elfling ran around.

�Thank you, will you stay with us for a while as we speak with them?�

�Of course, Hir Nin.� Galion made his way across to the first Talon and calling out softly asked for entrance.

Elladan could not move as Telinia moved towards him with the knife glinting in the weak light of morning. There was no where he could go; his hands were bound so tightly that he could not even feel them any more. He did promise him self one thing, the Elf before him would never see his fear.

Telinia smiled that awful smile as he reached for the other Elf, his hand caught one of Elladan�s braids and with a quick jerk the braid was severed from Elladan�s head. Then moving so quickly that Elladan had no chance to prevent it, the knife came down in an elegant arc across his cheek.

Elladan gave a small gasp at the pain this caused and Telinia laughed once more. �Come on, now that did not hurt, it was only a scratch so that I can do this.� He dipped the ends of the braid into the blood that was trickling down the pale cheek. �Your Ada needs to know that I am serious. If he thinks otherwise, it will go badly for you. Now we need to make sure that you cannot be heard, yes there is no one around but hunters sometimes pass by when tracking prey.�

Elladan�s eyes lit up at this. �Do not get your hopes up, they will never find you. Now open up.�

Elladan deliberately would not do so. This action cost him as Telinia did not hesitate and punched him in the stomach. Elladan could not stop the gasp that left him and Telinia swiftly replaced the gag, pulling it tight behind his head. He then moved on to make sure that his legs were still tied tightly together.

�There, you can not escape now. I will be back later and if your Ada is stubborn we will have a little fun together.�

Elladan could only watch as his captor left the cave. He tried not to shiver as the cave seemed to draw in on him. He hated caves a lot. In particular he hated caves in Mirkwood; you could never tell what lived within them. Orcs were bad enough, but the big spiders were another thing. The spiders were even more evil than Orcs and that was saying something.

He would never forget his first encounter with the evil beasts. He had almost lost his twin to them, only the fact that Legolas always carried anti venom with him saved Elrohir that day. They all had a healthy loathing of the creatures since then.

No, he must not let his imagination run away from him. Telinia would not leave him here if he was at risk, would he? That would mean he would not be happy returning to the cave if there were spiders about. At least that was what Elladan thought as he sat where he had been dropped, unable to move.

Estel was making him self busy as he waited for the allotted time that his father had specified to pass. He made certain the fragrant oil was warm and would not wake his friend up when he applied it. He then chopped more roots and herbs for the tea that they had been using in vast quantities for Legolas� pain.

Once ready and with Thranduil�s help he removed the bed clothing from Legolas� left leg and gently began to massage the stiff muscles. As they worked they talked quietly about the adventures that Legolas and Aragorn had had in the past.

Once he was certain that the muscles were relaxed enough he began to do the simple exercises that he had been taught, they were aimed at stopping both the muscle spasms that Legolas still suffered from and also to aid the muscle tone. Already Legolas had lost a lot during his recovery; this would make sure that that would be lessened to a certain amount.

When he was satisfied with that leg he replaced the limb under the blanket, Legolas made no move or sound to let them know that he was aware of what they were doing. He helped Elrohir over to the other side of the bed and began his work on the other long limb.

He moved with even greater care this time, the long red puckered scar was standing out in stark relief against the paleness if Legolas� skin. It looked very painful and Estel made certain that he was careful so that he did not cause more pain to his friend.

Once that leg had been exercised to his satisfaction he rolled up the sleeves of the sleeping tunic that Legolas wore so that he could work on those muscles as well. He broke the silence as he worked.

�Do you remember the archery contest three years ago in Lothlorien?�

Thranduil looked up from where he was gently supporting Legolas� arm. �Yes, who could forget it? What with Haldir betting one month�s worth of wine that he would win.� He smiled down at his son with affection.

�Yes, you have to admit that his shot was exceptional.� Estel was grinning broadly now as Elrohir laughed slightly as he remembered as well.

�Yes it was until Legolas took his turn.�

�He certainly let his archery speak for him that day. Such a wonderful shot and right through Haldir�s. I will never forget the look on his face as he stood there.� Thranduil was openly chuckling at the memory.

�I do not think I have ever seen a grown Elf look so green and in such a short amount of time.� Elrohir was laughing outright now.

�It certainly put Haldir firmly in his place; I do not think that he will ever do that again.� Estel had been moving Legolas� arm as he had been shown.

�Do you think that he will ever be able to fire an arrow again? It looks impossibility to me.� Thranduil had finally voiced one of his greatest fears.

�I am sure that with hard work Legolas will be back shooting his beloved arrows once more. He has us to help him get there.� Estel tried to reassure the King, even though he was deeply worried about that him self.

�Yes, he does have that. Thank you, Estel words are not enough for all that you and the twins have done for my Son.� Thranduil made sure that his voice was sincere and carried all the belief that he held.

�It is nothing; Thranduil Legolas would do exactly the same if it were one of us. In fact he has done so many times. We all just want Legolas to be well and able to join us properly.� Estel smiled at the thought and it grew as Thranduil groaned at the thought.

�If you must, but please I and my heart needs at least a six month break before you begin with your �adventures� once more.� Thranduil glowered at the laughing human.

�We cannot promise, but we will try.� Estel moved onto Legolas� left arm and gently removed the dressing on the Prince�s upper arm. What he saw made him freeze.

�I need to find Ada.� His tone was deadly serious.

�What? What is it?� Thranduil could hear the worry in Estel�s voice.

�May I send one of your guards to get Ada? I will explain in a moment.� Estel had gently recovered the wound.

�Yes, you may and tell them that it is urgent.� Thranduil watched as Estel rose and changed his mind. �Stay with Legolas I will talk with the guards, I will get them to bring Mealena.� His friend had been called away a short while ago to tend a severe spider bite. He stood and left the chamber.

�Estel, what is it?� Elrohir spoke up from his spot on the other side of the bed.

�It is badly infected. Ada will want to see this, it is not even healing.�

�That is not good.� Elrohir broke off as Thranduil re-entered the chamber. He was swiftly followed by Mealena.

�What has happened?� The healer was out of breath after his rush from the healing wing.

�Legolas� arm is very badly infected.� Estel explained.

They all watched as Mealena removed the soiled dressing. Thranduil had to turn away sickened at the sight of his sons arm.

The wound seemed for some reason to have grown in size and not decrease as they would have expected. It also looked raw and very painful. The arm itself was swollen and the skin looked to be taught. Pus that had been contained with the dressing now ran freely down the arm.

Mealena sucked in his own distress at seeing his Godson like this and was just about to clean the wound when the door opened and Elrond rushed in followed by Mithrandir and Glorfindel.

�What is wrong? The guards said it was urge�� Elrond stopped one look at Legolas� arm telling him the reason he had been called. �Who found this?� he moved to take Mealena�s place on the bed.

�I did Ada as we were doing Legolas� exercises.� Estel answered his father.

�You did the right thing by calling for us. Mealena can you get me some fresh warm water and some Athelas? I need to clean this arm. Glorfindel I need you to make��

�A herbal tea to reduce the inflammation.� Glorfindel cut him off

�Yes, Mellon-nin just exactly that. I also need to gather some of this pus so that I can look at it later.� As he was speaking Elrond was gently palpating the skin around the wound only stopping when Legolas gave a hiss of pain and tried to pull away.

�Easy, Legolas I need to look at this arm.� He once again tried to look at the wound.

Legolas pulled away saying. �Y� yes g� go.�

Elrond looked up at that it made no sense what so ever. �I am sorry, Penneth I know that this must hurt, but I need to have a good look at it and clean it up.� He tried again.

Legolas repeated his actions, pulling away once again with. �Y� yes g� go.�

Elrond sat back trying to determine what it was that Legolas was saying. It was obvious that what was coming out of the younger elf�s mouth was not what he wanted to say. Inspiration struck home.

�Legolas say No for me.� He did not look away from the Prince and he could clearly read the fear that mingled with the confusion in those blue eyes.

�Y� yes.� The fear increased in Legolas� eyes.

�Alright, Legolas can you say stop for me?� If it was as he feared then Legolas would say�

�G� Go.�

Elrond closed his eyes it was as he feared. He opened them to see the naked fear in those blue eyes. �Legolas you are having some big problems with your speech at the moment, I know it must be awful for you. We will find out what is causing this, but for the minute I need to treat this arm, it will hurt but it must be done.�

Glorfindel walked into his line of sight with a goblet. He handed it to Legolas. �This will help with the pain, it will not make you sleep as we need to look at you properly after Elrond has seen to your Arm.� he helped the Prince to drink the tea.

Elrond readied his equipment as he waited for the tea to work. His mind was turning in circles as he though of what may be causing Legolas� dysphasia. Could he have another clot or more pressure on his brain? But he had not been having any seizures, which would be one of the first symptoms. But then Legolas had been having more intense headaches of late.

Finally he could wait no longer and moved to clean Legolas� arm with Thranduil�s help. Glorfindel offered to take the King�s place, but Thranduil had refused.

First Elrond gathered the sample that he needed, and then he moved onto cleaning the wound. It was nasty and he packed it well with Athelas before bandaging it.

�There all finished, but I want you to be wary of using that arm.� Not that he could use it much. �How does it feel now?�

�B�Bad.�

�I am sure that it does, Mealena has made some athelas that will help as well. It should soon feel better.� He smiled at his patient.

�Y� yes b� bad.� Legolas tried again.

�Oh, I see! It feels better?� Elrond could have kicked him self. How frustrating and frightening this must be for the Prince.

�N� no.�

�I understand now, Legolas I am sorry that I am slow. May I look into your eyes once more?�

�N� no.� Legolas tried to relax back Elrond could at least understand him a little.

Once he had finished he sat back watching as Legolas blinked to try to stop the headache that this action had caused.

�I will let you have the tea for that headache now.� he smiled at Estel who this time handed Elrond the tea.

Soon Elrond was stood with Thranduil and the others, Legolas was once again asleep.

�What is causing this, Elrond? Why is Legolas getting worse and not better?� Thranduil wanted so much to pace out his frustration. He dared not in case he woke his son up. He glanced over to the bed. Legolas was asleep shivering under the covers. This look wrong for so many reasons.

�It is nothing to do with Legolas� head injury, as far as I can tell that is healing very well. As for the cause of this? It must be some outside influence. His wound is not healing so that means almost certainly that something is affecting his immune system. We have to say at this moment that what is causing both of these is likely to be the same thing. We need to find that, Legolas will only become weaker until we do. It may also be the cause of his loss of appetite.� He sighed pinching his nose.

�Legolas will get worse?� the horror in Thranduil�s voice was clear to all in the room and they all moved to try and comfort him.

A knock at the door stopped them all. Thranduil granted entry.

It was one of the guards, Gilaen. �Hir Elrond, this missive arrived for you a minute ago, the messenger said that it was urgent.�

�Thank you.� Elrond took the missive from the Elf.

�How is the Prince? Everyone is worried about him.� Gilaen was watching the Prince as he spoke.

�Not too well.� Thranduil sighed. �Bit I am sure that he is going to be fine.� There was something about this elf, something about him that triggered a memory. He had known him for some time and not had any problems, but there was something almost familiar about him. He shook him self.

�Thank you that will be all.� The guard bowed deeply and left the chamber closing the door behind him smiling as he heard the gasp from within the room.

Chapter Eleven

Elrond watched as Gilaen left the chapter. Slipping a finger underneath the plain seal he flipped it open. A lock of black hair fell into his hands. For one long second all he could do was look at what was in his hands before a gasp of shock left his lips.

�Elrond, what is it, Mellon-nin?� Thranduil looked up at the gasp.

Elrond could only hold out the braid that was in his hand. It was the braid of his house. There could be only one person that this could have come from, his son Elladan.

Thranduil�s eyes widened at what his friend held out to them. Silence filled the room.

�Is there a message with it?� Mithrandir rose from his seat.

�I do not know.� To be honest he had not really looked. Taking a deep breath he opened the missive fully. Deep dark, dried blood lay on the parchment and Elrond quickly checked the braid. It was stiff with dried blood.

Reading quickly he passed the letter to Thranduil before slumping in a chair.

Thranduil took the parchment with reticence. Taking a deep breath he read what was written down.

Thranduil sighed as he handed the parchment to Mithrandir, he opened his mouth to speak but he was stopped by Elrond.

�I will hear no word of us either leaving or you abdicating. I will not let them win this battle.� Elrond voice was cold and sure. �They will live to regret the day that they took one of mine and targeted Legolas.�

�You are right, Elrond this is a battle, one that I fully intend that we will win. Did you learn anything from your visit earlier?� Thranduil was once again all business.

�No, most of those we met know nothing and have lived within their villages for some time. Some we both know from our youth. They have promised to keep an eye and ear out for anything unusual. To make sure that they do not arouse suspicions they will report to Galion rather than any of us. Who ever these Elves are, they are well established. I think it is pure coincidence that the villages had to move back to the Palace.�

Thranduil could not hide his surprise. �You think that they are members of my staff?�

�I really do not know, but we may have to work on that assumption. Trust only those who you would trust with your life.� Elrond was serious as he said these words.

�You are right. Mealena, which members of your staff are absolutely loyal to me?�

His old friend stepped up to stand next to him. �There are three that I know of with absolute certainty.�

�Good, I am placing you in charge of them. From this minute on only herbs that they have picked and readied will be used to treat Legolas with. Simnella the same goes for your cooks. I want to be absolutely sure that nothing that Legolas needs it tainted again.� He watched as they nodded and left the chamber.

Thranduil turned to Elrond once more. �Do you think that my guards are compromised?� His voice was cold and hard.

�That I do not know. I think at present it would be better to assume so.�

�I agree. We will keep the guards on the doors. Inside this chamber we will guard Legolas. If you have need to leave then we go in two�s and are on our guard.�

�That is all good and well, Thranduil but have you really read what this says?� Mithrandir spoke up.

�What do you mean?� The King was puzzled at the Maia�s words.

�Read it again and tell me what you see?� Mithrandir handed the parchment back to Thranduil.

Thranduil accepted it and with one puzzled look he re-read the letter. It was the last line that this time seemed to leap from the parchment.

He had to read it a third time, he raised stunned pale eyes to his friends. �But Polinias died, he took his own life. How if he is dead can he be King?�

�That is not clear.� Mithrandir walked over to the small occasional table that sat next to the fire. Picking up the other letters he read them once more. �There has always been something about these letters that puzzled me; I have been unable to see what.�

�What are you trying to say, Mithrandir?� Even Elrond seemed puzzled.

�Here in this first missive, it says �You may not remember the leader of our group, but we more than remember you.� That implies that you know the leader, also this second missive. We are being watched. The fact that they knew the Estel was not in the kitchen before the attack took place tells us this. Did you see the body, Thranduil?� Mithrandir bright, sharp eyes turned to the tall Elf in front of him.

�Polinias?� At the wizards nod he continued. �From a distance. The family would not let us close to him. His wife was hysterical, blaming me for her husband�s actions. We left them to deal with the body.�

�Hmmm, I see. So it could easily have been staged?� Mithrandir was stroking his beard thoughtfully.

�Thinking back on it, yes it may well have been staged. At the time I did not think of that, I felt great sorrow that one who had been so noble and loyal could be reduced to that.� Sorrowful eyes met the Maia�s.

�I can understand that, Mellon-nin.� The Maia rested an aged hand on the King�s shoulder.

With a weary nod, Thranduil slumped into a chair, everything finally catching up with him. The race to Rivendell in fear that his precious son would die before he got to him, then the fear over Legolas� head injury, now this.

�He may not be dead? Polinias may still be alive?� His voice sounded as shocked and stunned as he looked. �But why wait all this time until emerging? Why?�

�He may have tried to take advantage of your being out of Mirkwood for so long. We need to look at all your staff and guards; they must have been waiting and watching for some time. For them to be able to infiltrate this far�� Elrond was thinking fast.

�Ada, you need to take a look at Legolas.� Elrohir�s voice was full of worry and the others turned quickly towards the bed.

They had not noticed that the younger twin had moved and was perched as close to the Prince as he could possibly get.

�What is wrong?� Elrond and Thranduil were there next to him within a blink of an eye.

�He is feverish.� There was trepidation in the young Elves voice, he remembered all too clearly what had happened the last time Legolas had a fever.

From the deep worried frowns on the others faces, they remembered clearly too.

�Let me see.� A pale cool hand reached out to touch the pallid forehead. �Yes, his temperature is very high. We need to get it down. Glorfindel.�

�I am on to it.� Nothing more needed to be said, at least not to him.

Thranduil was a different matter. �You said not to use any herbs that had not been picked by Mealena�s trusted healers.�

�I know I did, but Legolas cannot wait for them, we will have to take a chance.� Elrond�s voice was urgent as he spoke.

�What is causing this?� Thranduil�s worry was palpable.

�It must be from his arm, the infection must be great. Estel, we need some warm water, can you fetch us some?�

�You are going to sponge him down?� Estel was already moving towards the door that led to the bathing chamber.

�Yes, it will help until the herbs work. Glorfindel can you add some of the medicinal vitamins to the tea? We may as well take this opportunity to get some into him.�

A delicate grunt was the only reply he got as Glorfindel hurriedly prepared the herbs.

By the time he was finished and the tea ready, Elrond was already sponging the Prince down Thranduil doing all he could to help.

Estel had helped Elrohir to move so that the others could help Legolas and have greater access to him. They watched with worry as their father and his friend helped give Legolas the tea. Thranduil holding him tenderly. Estel actually jumped when a hand fell onto his shoulder and he looked up to find a grim faced Mithrandir gazing down at him. It did not help his fears only increased them.

They watched as again and again Legolas was wiped down with the warm water as they waited for the medication to work. Finally Elrond sat back with a tired sigh, while the fever had lowered it had not cleared completely, something told him it would not until they found out what really was going on with the younger Elf.

�Elrond?� Thranduil�s voice was quiet.

�His fever is acceptable for the moment. We will need to monitor it frequently. We cannot take the risk of it rising to an unacceptable level.�

�He will be alright?� They watched as Thranduil gently stroked his son golden hair with a tenderness that was awe inspiring to watch.

�Eventually, yes. He needs rest and warmth.� Even during his highest fever point Legolas had been shivering as if freezing and Elrond knew it was nothing to do with the fever but a continuation from what ever was ailing the younger Elf.

�We need more wood and kindling.� Thranduil�s voice was distant as he watched his son sleep.

Elrond�s heart was heavy as he watched his old friend. How could he tell him that he had no real idea what was happening with Legolas, no idea if this was poison or a continuation of the head injury the Prince had suffered?

Thranduil had not come straight out and asked if Legolas would survive this, for that he was glad because at this point he really did not know the answer to that, as much as that hurt to admit.

�I will arrange that.� Estel�s voice was soft. He crossed the chamber and spoke with the guard that stood outside.

�Estel, what is wrong?� Mealena came up beside to him a worried frown creasing his forehead.

�Legolas has a fever, Ada is worried.� The young Human could read his Elven foster father clearly.

�Let us go and see him.� The healer gently led the young man back into the chamber.

�Lord Elrond, I have freshly picked herbs. I picked them myself so that I know they are untainted. Estel tells me that Legolas is feverish?� Thranduil did not seem to notice as the two healers went into a huddle away from him.

Glorfindel stayed by the King, trying to offer what comfort and support that he could.

�Yes, we have brought it down but it is still present.� Elrond was watching his patient as he spoke.

�Estel said that you were worried.� Mealena watched as a small frown passed over the other Elf�s face.

�Yes, I should have realised that my sons would pick up upon it. Something worries me here. I fear that we could loose the Prince to this if we do not find out what is causing this soon.� He watched the other Elf closely to gauge his reaction.

Mealena could not hide his shock, he had known that Legolas was very ill and getting worse, but for Elrond to speak so freely of Legolas dieing.

�We must prevent that; Mirkwood would never survive loosing her Prince, what ever Polinias� supporters say.�

�Maybe that is what should happen.� Mithrandir�s voice was calm and he awaited the outcry that he was sure would come.

It did.

�What? You would kill Legolas?!� Elrond was for once shocked.

�No, I did not say that. Legolas is being targeted so it would seem, we all agree on that?� Every head nodded. �The one thing they want is for Thranduil to give up his Kingdom to save Legolas.�

�Yes, that is what they have said.� Thranduil�s voice throbbed with anger.

�Then what would happen if Legolas were to �die� of his injuries? The entire Palace is aware of how ill he is it would come as no great shock. It would also take Legolas out of their range.�

�That may win us some time. How would we go about it? I want no further harm to come to Legolas.� Thranduil sounded calmer as he listened to Mithrandir speak.

�We would have to stage it very carefully. Obviously for him to suddenly die quickly would work against us. The assailants may find that a little convenient. No, I would suggest that we wait for a day or so but have you putting out bulletins regarding Legolas� state of health. They can be steadily worse as the day goes by. Mealena we will need your three trusted healers brought in to add to the growing drama.�

�They would be pleased to help. Then what, if, I can help in any way I will.� There was a fierce light in his eyes as he looked upon his dear friend and Godson.

�Legolas will need to be moved once he has �died�. Is there somewhere safe for him to be cared for?� Mithrandir turned back to Thranduil.

�Yes, when there is a death in the Royal family, they are taken to the halls of preparation; here it is attached to the halls of healing. Once he has been �viewed� he can then be moved again. It can be done easily. But how will you make my son look as if he has died?� There was a hint of uncertainty in the King�s voice.

�I can be of help there.� Elrond spoke up. �We have an herb that we can use to lower his pulse and breathing. Legolas looks so ill that it would not take much to deepen that. The only problem would be that he will feel the elements even more. His recovery once he is moved will be very uncomfortable.�

�Do we have any choice?� Thranduil�s voice sounded defeated. He hated doing this to his son, but as Mithrandir said it would be one way of making sure that Legolas was away from harm.

�I think not.� Glorfindel spoke for the first time. �What about Elladan?�

�We have not forgotten about him. Elrohir how is your bond?� Mithrandir asked the quiet twin.

�Still strong. I have felt a few slithers of fear from him, but I have been pouring reassurance to him.� Indeed the young twin looked wan and tired.

Elrond moved to his side. �You must rest, you cannot keep this up.� One look into the haunted eyes of his son told him enough. �Your head is bad?�

He received a small nod. �You have been giving Elladan too much. You will have a tea to help and sleep. If Elladan needs any help I will provide it. I will have no argument.� This as Elrohir opened his mouth to protest.

Estel had already moved to the herb table and was preparing the herbs. No one noticed as they continued to discuss their plan that he did not use the new herbs, but continued to use the old in his own tiredness.

�I would like to warn Galion. It is only fair; he would be the only one other than those that we have mentioned.� Thranduil was back with Legolas, hating to be far from him, especially with what they were planning.

�I agree. We need you to�� Mithrandir broke off as a knock sounded at the door. At a nod from Thranduil they all relaxed back. Elrond was talking in a huddle with Mithrandir and Mealena. Thranduil stayed where he was, Glorfindel moving beside him a look of worry in place as he affected the pose that they would all soon be taking.

As Thranduil called for the newcomer to enter, Estel moved to Elrohir�s side with the tea. Elrohir, meanwhile tried to make himself look as ill as he could.

It was a servant with the wood and kindling, with her was Gilaen. Both froze when they saw the look on their King�s face.

�Sire, the Prince?� Telinia made his voice sound worried.

Thranduil looked up and Elrond�s heart dropped, his friend looked old and weary, more so than he had ever seen him before.

�Legolas is very ill, Gilaen. Please pray for his recovery.� Thranduil�s voice actually caught.

�I will, Sire. How may I help?� The young guard had to fight to stop the elation from showing.

�It is in the hands of the God�s and the Valar I am afraid. There is little more we can do.� Thranduil watched as the young Elleth stocked the wood for the fire. When she looked up she had tears running down her face.

As she made her way back over to the door she stopped by her King. She gave a low bow and spoke very hesitantly. �My liege, I will pray for you and the Prince. If I could change places with him, I would happily. Prince Legolas is very dear to us all.� More tears fell as she spoke.

Thranduil had to clear his throat and his eyes were shiny as he spoke to her. �Thank you, that means much to me. We can only hope that the Valar will answer our prayers.�

She gave another low bow and left the chamber with the guard, as the chamber door closed, Thranduil called out. �Gilaen would you please ask Galion to come to me?�

�Of course, Sire.� The door closed behind them and they all gave a small sigh of relief. Glorfindel turned to Thranduil.

�You handled that well.�

�My emotions were true, they reflected my fears.� He had to look away from the Balrog Slayer embarrassed that his emotions were so easily read.

�It is what we all feel, Mellon-nin do not be embarrassed to show it.� He looked up as the sound of hurried feet moved towards the chamber. There was a quick knock and Galion called out to ask for entrance.

�My Liege, Gilaen said that you needed to speak with me and that the Prince�s condition had worsened.� His trusted butler looked worriedly at the young Elf in the King�s arms.

Thranduil quickly put him at his ease and explained the plan that they had come up with. Within the hour, they had come up with a viable bulletin that Thranduil would be giving to the council later that day.

It was arranged that Thranduil would pass a note to the guard at the door asking for Galion to bring the council together. As he left with a sombre Mealena they were unaware of being watched by eager eyes.

Legolas still had not woken and Elrohir had been tucked into one of the temporary beds next to him, when Thranduil left to give his announcement. With one last, worried look at his son he hurried from the room.

There was an uneasy silence as he made his way down to the throne room. All the Elves that worked in the Palace lined the corridors, sombre expressions in place. As he passed they gave deep bows.

As the large golden doors were opened by the Herald�s, Thranduil was aware that silence filled the chamber and a sense of deep despair seemed to permeate the air.

As he entered they all bowed deeply. As he took his seat on his throne he spoke, his voice was melodic and melancholy. �You may sit.�

He was aware that they exchanged shocked glances; it was unusual for them to be asked to sit when in emergency session. Unease rippled through the room.

�Thank you for coming together so promptly. As you know Prince Legolas was severely injured recently during an attack. His injuries were very grave. We had hoped that our returning to Mirkwood would aid in his healing. That unfortunately has not happened.�

No one in the chamber made a sound, but every single Elf looked shocked.

�In fact the opposite has happened. It pains me to tell you this but it may be that Legolas will never recover.� This time there was shocked muttering. �We may have to accept that my son may well join his Naneth. I will obviously keep you all informed as to his progress. I would also ask that you please bear with me during this difficult time. Obviously, Legolas needs me to be with him.� With that Thranduil stood and the room stood with him. As he left the chamber he could hear the noise level rise.

He did not wait he fled back to Legolas� chamber.

Telinia watched as Thranduil fled the chamber despair hanging over him like a cloud. This was just too good to be true. The additions seemed to have worked.

He turned and left the Palace. Quickly he left the main area of habitat and slid into the forest. Deeper he went, winding his way through the trees so that if he were to be followed he would loose them. He moved deeper into the trees, carefully avoiding the areas that the spiders congregated in.

Soon he was near to where the hidden cave was. He had found it when he was out on patrol and he and his father had decided that it was perfect for the use it was getting now.

He entered and as his eyes adjusted to the gloom he caught sight of his captive. Elladan glowered at him. It would have been threatening if he had not been tied up and gagged.

His smile widened as he moved nearer to the other Elf. He quickly removed the gag.

�I did not mean to return until the morrow, but I thought you might like to hear the news that is currently flooding Mirkwood.�

�Nothing you can tell me is of interest to me.� Elladan tried to spit out, but it only emerged as a croak, he was so dry.

�So you do not wish to know how out beloved Prince is?� Telinia�s voice was snide.

�Legolas? What have you done to him?�

�I? What makes you think that I have done anything to him?� He laughed at the glare he received. �Very well, you are right. But it is not just me. The herbs that the Prince has been taking have had a little extra added to them. With every dose his body becomes weaker. If he could speak he would make no sense what so ever.�

�What do you mean if he could speak?�

�Oh, I did not tell you, did I? He is dieing, the King has told the council that he will in all likelihood never recover.� He laughed at the horrified look on Elladan�s face.

�No, you lie.�

�Oh, no I do not. I have seen him for myself and I can tell you he will not linger much longer in Middle Earth.�

�How long have you been adding to the herbs?�

�Since before we left Rivendell. One of my men has had access to him. You would have no idea how easy it has been to get to him. Even on the trip back, you are amateurs, believe me.�

�You will never get away with this, I promise you that I will find you and you will pay.� Elladan�s voice was deadly.

�I am scared, Elfling very scared.� He moved closer and holding up the gag he smiled. �Open up and I will get back to the palace. As soon as I have news for you, I will tell you. I will be back tomorrow to gather another surprise for your dear Adar.� Elladan did not have a choice; he knew what this Elf would and could do if he tried to hold off. Within minutes he was gagged and Telinia�s patted his head as if he was a dog.

�Good, Little Elfling I am glad that we understand another. I will bring you some food when I come next. Sleep well.�

Elladan could only watch him leave a feeling of deep despair filling him as he thought of Legolas.

Elrond was preparing the fresh herbs keeping a close eye on Legolas as the others rested. He was too full of tension to even remain in one place.

The knife was sharp and sliced easily through the herbs as he made quick work of the roots. He could not stop the knife as it slipped as a feeling of deep, black despair filled him. He could not stop the groan that left his lips; it grew as the knife sliced through his hand�.

Chapter Twelve

Glorfindel opened his eyes and looked up as Elrond�s gasp echoed around the chamber. His eyes widened as he noticed the silver red blood that poured down his hand.

�Elrond, Elbereth what has happened?� He was at his friend�s side almost immediately, waking up Estel who had fallen asleep not long ago sat beside Elrohir who was still fast asleep.

�Ada, what?� Estel�s eyes widened too and he crossed to help Glorfindel who was leading Elrond over to his empty chair. Estel reached for a clean cloth and as Glorfindel questioned his father he applied pressure.

�What happened?� Glorfindel did not like the grey cast that his friends face had taken on. It was more than obvious that Elrond was in some sort of shock.

�Knife. Elladan.� Elrond could not quite catch his breath.

�What about Elladan?� This was from Thranduil who had risen as well and joined them.

�He is in deep despair. I can feel it, it is almost swallowing him.� Elrond tried his best to explain.

�Do you have any idea what has caused it?� Glorfindel was trying to keep his friends attention with him.

�I do not know. All I can feel is his darkness. It hit me so suddenly.� He was trying to watch what Estel was doing but Glorfindel kept blocking his view.

�This is bad, Ada you need stitches it has gone right into the muscle.� Estel�s voice was soft with worry.

�Ai, just what we do not need!� Elrond could have kicked himself. Yes, he was tired. Yes, he was worried about both of his sons. Even more than that he was worried about Legolas and how wrong this plan of Mithrandir�s could go. And it could very quickly go wrong if they were not careful. He also did not want to think of what the long term consequences could be if it did go wrong.

�I will see to it.� Mealena had just entered the chamber and had seen what had happened.

Estel gratefully handed over to the other healer, the thought of causing his father further pain was not appealing. He watched as Glorfindel carried on holding his fathers arm gently as the healer cleaned the wound and then gently probed it.

�You are very lucky that none of the herbs got into the wound. I will numb it so that you do not feel the stitches going in. it will sting. Not that I need to warn you.� Mealena could not help but joke, trying to lighten the tense atmosphere.

Elrond hissed as the numbing herbs were placed over the deep wound on his right hand meaning he could not answer to that comment. Estel�s stifled snigger was answer enough though.

Thranduil watched amused as his old friend had to consent to having his wound treated. Like all healers Elrond hated being on the receiving end and was scowling at Mealena as he worked.

The wound took fourteen very neat stitches to close and as a precaution before covering the wound, Mealena placed Athelas over the top to prevent infection. �Need I say that you need to keep this clean and dry?� there was an amused glimmer in Mealena�s eyes.

�You are pushing this, Mealena. I will get my own back, trust me.� This time the sniggers were rather un-elf like and came from Glorfindel and Thranduil.

�I will bear that in mind. How did it happen and please do not say cutting herbs that is obvious.�

�Elladan is in despair and it hit me like a wave and the knife slipped.� Elrond would not look him in the eye.

�Elrond you need to sleep. You cannot keep going like this, when did you last sleep for more than three hours straight?� Mealena was giving Elrond a glare that Thranduil knew all too well. His friend was obviously not impressed with Elrond.

�Some time, I will admit what with Legolas and now Elladan.� Elrond�s voice was small as he answered.

�Then sleep now, I will stay with Legolas. If you do not sleep I will drug you.� There was promise in Mealena�s voice.

�You would not dare!� shocked eyes caught the healer�s.

�Try me.� The wicked grin on Mealena�s face tickled Thranduil.

�He will as well, Mellon-nin. He has done the same to me in the past.� Thranduil was smiling at the memory although in the past he had not been so pleased.

�That was because you insisted staying awake for five days straight when you were injured.� Mealena turned on his friend and King without hesitation and Estel sat back to watch this with amusement.

�Legolas was injured more than I and I did not want to leave him!� Thranduil sounded aggrieved.

�Yes, but he had the best idea and slept. You on the other hand did not and would have collapsed. Your wound was also poisoned. I did not want to be the one to tell my Godson that his father was ill through self neglect.�

�He would never have known.� The King was grumbling.

�How do you know that?� Elrond�s right eye was arched as he asked this.

�Legolas was unconscious. Mealena had drugged him before me.� Thranduil had his arms crossed and was glowering.

�I had just set his broken leg! Did you want him to be awake for that?�

�No and you are right.� Thranduil sighed and smiled at his friend before they both turned to Elrond eyes raised and heads to one side.

�I will sleep.�

�Good. Bed and now.� Mealena had a satisfied look on his face.

They all watched as a grumbling Elrond moved over to the pallet next to Elrohir. He was half way down and almost sitting when he stopped and looking up asked. �Elrohir should have been awake before now. How much did you give to him Estel?�

�Just the usual herbs for a headache, Ada. But you are right, he should be awake.� He made to move to his brother�s side, frowning at his father as he began to stand. �I will check him out; stay sitting, you can watch me.�

Elrond sat back with a sigh watching as Estel and Mealena tried to wake Elrohir. He had to frown at the difficulty that they had and as he watched Glorfindel moved to stand next to him.

�Elrohir? Come on, wake up you have been asleep for far too long. Ada is getting worried.� The worry in Estel�s voice rang in the chamber as the twin remained unconscious.

Even Thranduil was watching closely as Mealena gently but firmly took one elegant ear between his thumb and fore finger and applied pressure. They all waited hardly daring to breathe until Elrohir gave a low moan and tried to move away sluggishly. That was all the encouragement that Estel needed and he began badgering his foster brother until his eyes opened sluggishly.

�That is it, Elrohir. We were getting worried. How are you feeling?�

�E� Estel?� Elrohir sounded as groggy as he looked.

�Yes, Gwador-nin?�

�T� Tired.�

�But you have only just woken up. Other than tired how do you feel?� Estel frowned at his brother something did not feel right about this.

�H� Headache. F� feel s�sick.� Elrohir tried to close his eyes against the pounding that seemed to have taken up residence behind them.

That brought Elrond�s head up as he heard that. There was something about that way that his son was speaking, something that reminded him of� He frowned thinking hard trying to reach for what his tired mind was trying to tell him. He knew this, he was just so tired. What was this that Elrohir reminded him of? No, it was not a what; it was in fact a who and not just any who� Legolas!

Sudden comprehension filled him. Elrohir was behaving very much like Legolas had been in the beginning. But why? Elrohir had had nothing that Legolas had had access to. Then he recalled. The herbs for his headache. They had used the herbs on the table.

�Estel, what herbs did you use to make Elrohir�s tea?� His voice was urgent.

�The ones on the table, Ada.� Estel was puzzled at his father�s change.

�Show me.� Elrond stood and quickly pulled his foster son to the table.

Estel looked down at the table trying to remember his movements. He had been so tired and worried about his brothers and so scared for Legolas. The thought of loosing the Prince, of having to pretend to be mourning had blurred everything.

He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, then with surety he reached out and pointed to the herbs he had used. Some were still scattered about. Luckily they had been pushed to one side when Elrond had been preparing the others. Typical behaviour for the Elf Lord, never throw the herbs away until the others were ready in case they were needed in the mean time.

�Those ones.�

�You are positive?� Elrond was watching Estel closely, aware that Mealena was watching him as well.

�Yes, Ada absolutely. Why?�

�Mealena, the new herbs that you brought where did you put them?� He turned intensive brown eyes to the other healer and Estel felt that thrill run through him; his father was on to something, he was sure of it.

�On the left away from the others.�

�I barely moved them. Mealena, I need to borrow your study. I think that the herbs may have been tampered with. Elrohir is suffering from some of the effects that Legolas has been showing. I am sure that this is more than just a coincidence.� Elrond was gathering samples from both piles of herbs and had to smile when Glorfindel held out small bags for each set of samples to lie in.

�Of course, would you like some help?� The other healer was ready and willing to do anything for Legolas.

�Please. Estel, can you go and get Mithrandir?� The Maia had left to bathe a while back, unaware as to what had been happening.

�You think there is something wrong with the herbs?� Thranduil sounded angry.

�Yes. Estel was not thinking he was exhausted, instead of using the new herbs he used the others without realising it. I will look at both of them and we will be able to tell what they are. Stay with Legolas and Elrohir. You as well Glorfindel. I will be back.� Without giving them a chance to respond he took the two linen bags and hurried from the room.

The two Elves just looked at each other, shocked. Suddenly things seemed clearer.

They stood guard over the two younger Elves. It was Glorfindel that made the first move.

�We need to make them drink. The more water we can get into them the better.� The Balrog Slayer moved to the side table and poured two glasses of cool, clear water.

�You mean to try and flush their systems out?� Thranduil was already helping Lift Elrohir up so that he could sip at the fluid.

�Yes. Legolas has had it in his system for far longer than Elrohir�s. We can flush most of it out of Elrohir quickly.� Between them they helped wake the young Elf and encouraged him to drink.

Elrohir needed a lot of encouragement he was not at all happy. With the King and his friend�s encouragement he drank four large glasses of water. Happy the Two Elves moved onto the Prince. This was easier as Legolas was still unconscious and did not fight them.

Thranduil felt his heart ache at the thin, grey face of his son as Glorfindel trickled the water in the lax mouth. He could feel the heat rising from his son.

�His fever is higher.�

�Aye, but I do not want give him anything until Elrond clears it. Once he has had some fluids we will bathe him.� They looked up as a knock sounded and when the door opened Estel stepped into the chamber. Looking over his shoulder was a worried looking Gilaen.

Without consulting Glorfindel, for their really was not time and Thranduil did not want to ruin the charade that they had set up that afternoon, he called out.

�Estel, we need help. Legolas� fever has risen.�

For one minute Estel looked shocked and then he hurried towards them. �He has worsened?� With his back to the door Thranduil could see that Estel understood what he was trying to do.

�Yes. Your father has gone to sleep and we really do not want to waken him. Mealena is caught up in the healing wing. We need to get his temperature down. We need to bathe Legolas.�

�I will get some warm water.� With a grim smile to the warrior at the door he closed it in his face.

�You suspect Gilaen?� The human�s voice was low and sharp.

�Aye, there is something that I do not trust about him. He seems to be far too interested in Legolas. I need that water, Estel.�

The young human nodded and entered the bathing chamber.

�That was quick thinking, Mellon-nin.� Glorfindel was still trying to get more water into Legolas.

�Thank you. I did not want to ruin our plans.� Thranduil brushed the sweat from Legolas forehead, wincing at the rising heat that he met.

�What worries you about Gilaen?� He gently wiped the mouth after he set the glass back down.

�I do not know I cannot really put my finger on it.� He looked up as Estel set the bowl of warm water down on the table. White fluffy towels had been thrown over the young shoulder. �I really wish I did, there is something about him. If I did not know any better I would say that I knew him. I mean really knew him and not just as a member of my guard.�

Between the three of them they had stripped Legolas and Thranduil began to wipe his face as Estel and Glorfindel wiped the thin chest. If anything Legolas looked even thinner than he had before. They worked in silence with only Thranduil murmuring reassurances to Legolas. The King could only hope that Legolas could hear him.

�This is not working.� Glorfindel�s voice was worried in the silence of the chamber. �Estel, would you go and get your Adar? Tell him to pretend to have been asleep. Tell Mealena and Mithrandir to come along in a while?�

�Of course, Glorfindel.� The fact that Legolas� best friend did not argue with the orders worried Thranduil even more and he watched closely as a very sombre looking Estel left the chamber. And there outside the door as he suspected was Gilaen trying to look in. It did not sit well with Thranduil.

He was relieved when a suitably sleepy looking and rumpled looking Elrond arrived back with his son and he was pleased to see Estel closing the door as soon as he could.

�What is wrong? Mithrandir is still looking at the herbs.� Elrond was already reaching for Legolas.

�Legolas� fever has increased and we cannot get it down. What have you found?� Thranduil practically barked at his friend desperate for some kind of news.

�In a minute. Estel wake Elrohir and make him drink water. When Mithrandir gets here he will have a tea with him, Elrohir will have to drink a goblet an hour for the next six hours.� Elrond was concentrating on Legolas.

�He had already had four glasses. We managed to get Legolas to drink two. We thought it better to try and flush their systems.� Glorfindel was still trying to cool the Prince down.

�Good. The herbs had been definitely tampered with. There were five herbs in there that should not have been. Who ever did this was very clever; they managed to match the herbs so that they matched. I fear one of your healers is involved, Thranduil.�

�I fear so. One of my trusted guards, too.� The King was beyond anger now. This was enough, when they found the group behind this and got Polinias they may just never get to trial.

�What were the herbs?� Glorfindel stood the water needed changing.

�One was a mild poison, just enough to make it impossible for Legolas to eat. One was levelled at his immune system it was mixed with a substance I have never seen. Mithrandir feels it may be feeding his fever; he is still working on it. Two were differing types of a common sleeping herb, used together and for long enough they cause dizziness and general debilitation.�

Elrond could see the growing anger in Thranduil. �The last herb I have never seen before. Neither has Mithrandir. He and Mealena are still working on it.�

The Elf Lord turned when he heard Elrohir protesting at having to drink, already he sounded better, thank the Valar his son was so strong, but Legolas? He would love to feed the herbs to their creator. For a healer to do this to another went beyond his comprehension.

�Can you help him?� Thranduil�s voice quavered as he asked Elrond that.

�I will do my very best, have no fear. Glorfindel, I need more herbs. I do not want to use any that are currently in this room. Can you go and pick me some?� The tepid sponging was not reducing Legolas� fever and if anything it was in fact climbing higher by the second.

�I would say yes to that, Elrond, but you cannot get your hand wet, I will continue to sponge Legolas you go and get the herbs.�

What could Elrond say to that? His friend was very right. �True, I will be back as soon as I can.�

Elrond had just got to the door when it opened and Mithrandir hurried in. Behind him was Mealena and in his hands were a pile of fresh herbs. �We thought you might want some new herbs. I picked them personally. I will remove the others, I do not want to take the chance that some of those herbs have contaminated the others.�

Elrond gave him a small smile. Mealena was a healer after his own heart. �Thank you, Mellon-nin. Have you found out any more about the herbs?� He was already trying to chop the herbs and had to sigh as Mealena took over from him.

�I can finish this faster than you can.�

�Elrohir, I need you to drink this tea for me.� Mithrandir was standing over the young Elf the goblet held out to Estel.

�N� Not thirsty.�

�You will drink this, Penneth without any complaint and every hour after that. It will help you. Now drink it or I will tie you to the bed and force you to drink it.� Mithrandir�s voice was amused but it also brokered no argument.

�A� Ada��

�This time your puppy dog eyes will not work on me, Ion-nin. You need this tea to counteract the poison in your system. Drink.�

The young twin�s eyes had widened at his fathers words and without another word of complaint but with a worry loaded glance at Legolas He drank the tea, wincing as the bitter herbs hit his taste buds. Estel was ready with another full glass of water.

�T� to flush m� my s� system?� He sighed with relief as the cool water washed away the bitter taste.

�Yes, Elrohir.� Estel had to smile; even ill his foster brother was sharp.

�G� Good. L� Legolas?�

�He is very ill, he has had a lot more of these drugs and they will take a long time to clear.� Mithrandir sighed. �We dare not endanger him further. I will not let you go ahead with my plan. We will need to think of another plan.�

Thranduil could not hide his sigh of relief. It was good that they had released the news of just how sick Legolas was but to know that he would not have to mock mourn his son made it feel as if a great weight had been lifted from his shoulders. Now if they could only get him well�

Elrond took the herb tea from Mealena and with Thranduil�s help fed the brew to Legolas.

�I have never encountered this last herb. I am tempted to send some to Sauroman for him to look at. I have no idea what they hoped to achieve by adding it to the others. When can you give Legolas the tea?� Mithrandir was angry at himself for not being able to help sort this incident with the herbs out straight away.

�Once his fever is down. Elbereth knows when that will be.� Elrond sighed at the lack of resistance he felt from Legolas.

�Do you really think that one of our healers is involved in this?� Mealena spoke up from his spot next to Thranduil.

�I was most certainly say yes to that. Also someone who travelled with us back from Rivendell must be involved. They have to have been for them to be able to doctor the herbs. This has gone on far too long. We need to look at the warriors that accompanied us.� Elrond really wanted to speak with this �healer�.

�Gilaen was one of them. Remember he met us with his patrol just after we entered the realm?� Thranduil�s voice was thoughtful.

�Yes. I would also like to meet with Brolinth; he helped to gather herbs with Estel that time. The fresh Athelas, remember?� Elrond had actually just remembered that himself.

Unaware that he was now under suspicion, Telinia made his way through the palace. First he needed to speak with his group and then he was going to go and see the half elf and let him know how his friend was faring. He also needed a little something to send to Elrond.

The hallway was empty as he entered the darkened chamber. As he pulled the door closed he could sense the others in the room.

�The Prince�s condition worsens by the minute. He should be dead by morning��

His statement was met by a growl and one of the Elves moved out of the shadows anger clear in his stance. �That is not what we agreed. I agreed to help because you promised that he would be mine. I have been preparing for him. I gave you the endeorilion to alter his brain chemicals. He is mine to play with.� Cwaerlion was beyond furious. The herb lowered the pain barrier making the recipient far more sensitive. His present pet was testament to that. Seeing him had made him eager to get his hands on the Prince.

�Then you should have thought of that before you effectively overdosed him with it! Adar will not be happy when he hears of this!� Telinia�s voice was low and deadly.

�And how will he learn when he is not even in Mirkwood? Polinias is so scared of being found that he will not even set foot out of his hovel!� At these words some of the other Elves began muttering their agreement.

�That is enough. He will be here when the time is right as you well know and he is more than aware of what is going on. You forget that due to our unexpected help he is more than able to deal with you personally. I can imagine the �King�s� face when my father walks in to see him. If the Prince lives he is yours.� The evil Elf in front of him grinned and he had to clamp down hard on his feeling of pity for the young Prince. Still in war casualties happened.

�Selend, have you more of the herbs to add to those in the chamber?�

�Yes, I picked fresh this afternoon. Elrond does not even suspect. I have added more of each, apart from Cwaerlion�s special ingredient. The prince will slip further into dreamland. When Cwaerlion gets hold of him I would love to be there to hear his screams.� The warrior/healer laughed and Telinia had to leave.

He knew all too well what they meant but that did not mean he had to like it. Selend could be as cruel as Cwaerlion when it came down to it. It had been handy having some one in the King�s party who could deal with the herbs, but now he was becoming more than just a little bit of a liability. He may have to see about ridding himself of this irritant.

Their chilling laughter was echoing in his ears as he left the chamber�.

Chapter Thirteen

Telinia shuddered as the deranged sounding laughter followed him down the corridor. It was more than enough to send his hackles rising.

With a great deal of stealth and not more than a little luck he made his way out of the palace. He made his way down and through the woods to the cave he had found many years ago, it was well hidden and only a handful of his most trusted elves knew that it was there.

He had just reached the copse that shrouded the cave when he suddenly felt the distinct feeling that he was being watched. The air around him seemed to have stilled and not a living thing moved. His hackles rose once more and he found his hand instinctively reaching for his sword. He too held still his Elven senses stretching out around him to try and find the source of his unease.

He could hear nothing, absolutely nothing. His keen eyes searched the foliage trying to seek out who ever this was, If it was a person, it could after all be a spider. They did not normally come this close to the palace or the cave, one reason it was chosen to house Elrond’s Brat. But that did not mean they would continue to stay clear. No the status quo with the spiders and Orcs were changing all the time.

Telinia smiled to himself that would be one of the things that his father would change. He would not sit back and let this glorious wood decline as it was at present.

The feeling of being watched was slowly diminishing and he shook himself; chiding himself at having an over active imagination. Removing his hand from his sword he made his way down to the cave’s entrance, he did not notice as he made his way into the gloomy entrance that he was being watched.

Chilling red eyes followed his every move, evil seemed to radiate from them. They watched as the Elf before it disappeared from sight only then did it slope off into the growing gloom.

Back in the palace all was still in the Prince’s room or at least as still as it could be when waiting for the arrival of some of the Elves who had been with them on the journey back from Rivendell. Brolinth was currently out on Patrol and Galion had sent word for him to return and meet with the King.

In the meantime it had been decided that they should all try to rest and eat. To this end Simnella had prepared a quick but appetising lunch for them. Thranduil had looked wistfully across at Legolas as he was eating, wanting nothing more than for his son to be sitting joining in with them. As it was Legolas was still unconscious and had not stirred once.

After they had eaten and Simnella had organised the removal of the detritus, Elrond moved once more to the Prince’s side.

He stretched trying to ease some of the kinks in his muscles. Elrond reached to feel for the Prince’s forehead and winced at the heat he could feel rising from it.

Elrond looked up as Thranduil joined him. “How is he?”

“He is still feverish, Mealena, would you prepare an herb tea to combat Legolas’ fever? I need to look at his arm there, is something causing this fever, more so than just a simple infection.” As he was speaking he was gently removing the bandages from Legolas’ left arm. Neither Elf could stop their hisses of horror at the sight of the wound.

It should have been well on the way to healing, but instead the wound looked much worse than the last time the dressing had been changed. Then it had been red and taught with infection. Now it was a deep angry red, the edges themselves looked raw and dark lines had spread up to include all the untouched, healthy skin. Even as they watched foul smelling pus dribbled from the bottom of the wound.

With a frown Elrond gently palpated the wound noting how inflamed and hot the area really was. It was also as hard as a rock. As he palpated the top end a small slither of pus emerged from what appeared to be a small pinprick and nothing more. The smell was enough to turn the stomach of all those present.

“I will need to open this to get the infection out. I am sorry, but I will have to do this or Legolas will loose his arm.” Thranduil looked horrified just at the thought.

“Do what you must. Just help him, please?” Thranduil pleaded.

“Of course, Mellon-nin I will do everything within my power. Glorfindel I need a knife heating. Mealena, you will need to have the herbs and athelas ready for when I need them, we will need more of the herbs for his fever. Thank you.” Elrond accepted the herb tea that he had made ready and with Thranduil’s help he fed the tea to the unconscious Elf.

“Estel, please could you make sure that there is plenty of hot water? I will need it. Mithrandir, can I put you in charge of the fire, you will need to keep it banked, the last thing that Legolas needs at present is to catch a chill and with him so compromised that may well happen.”

Within minutes everyone was rushing to do his bidding that left Thranduil and Elrohir. “What about us, Ada?” Elrohir had to ask he was feeling more like himself by the minute.

“You are to rest, Ion-nin. You may feel better but your body needs rest to recover from the shock it has received. You are to stay exactly where you are until I say otherwise. Do I make myself clear?” At Elrohir’s reluctant nod he smiled. “Good. Thranduil I want you to stay with Legolas, while he has these other herbs in him I do not really want to give him anything as a sedative, it may interact and cause us more problems.”

“What do you want me to do?” Thranduil had moved Legolas so that he was cradling him once more.

“I want you to sit as you are and comfort him, this will in all likelihood hurt.” Elrond gently swabbed the area with warm water laden with athelas.

He then accepted the knife from Glorfindel; it had been heated and then washed so that it was sterile. Elrond took a deep breath and noticed with a start that the hand he held it in was shaking, only slightly to be sure, but shaking none the less. When he had finished this he really needed to get some rest, he had gone far too long without a long interrupted sleep.

Elrond placed the knife against the wound and pressed. Within minutes the infected fluid poured from the wound casing them all to gag at the smell. Legolas did not even stir. Cloth after cloth was used as the wound was cleaned of the pus. Legolas did not even wince as he pressed down onto the wound to make sure that the infected matter was all clear.

The wound was then packed with athelas before being bound. When he had finished Elrond sat back incredibly shaky now that the need for urgency had passed.

“You need to rest, Mellon-nin. You are exhausted.” Glorfindel was at his side.

“Yes, in a while we need to get Legolas’ temperature down to normal limits.” Elrond tried to brush his old friend off, it failed.

“Aye and we can do that while you rest. You need not be the one that sees to this. Thranduil and I can do it. If not I will not hesitate to have Estel and Mithrandir hold you down while I give you a sleeping draft!” The two glowered at each other before Elrond gave in he really was too tired to really argue. He made his way to the pallet that Elrohir was sitting upon and with a sigh he sat down. He had to smile as two warm arms snaked their way around him.

Elrond said nothing as he watched his friends’ begin to sponge the Elven Prince down once more. As he relaxed back he found himself thinking over the last few hours and all that had happened. His eyes were just beginning to loose their focus when it happened.

All at once every single one of them were immediately on the alert. They had felt this before; it was as if something was watching them, as if something was going to happen. It set them all on edge.

Then just as before the feeling stopped, it did not fade away it simply... stopped.

“What was that?” Estel was the first to break the silence.

“I do not know. It had definite magical overtones, one that I have never encountered.” Mithrandir’s voice was thoughtful as he spoke.

“You have no idea as to what it was?” Elrond had pushed himself upright.

“No, I have never felt magic like this. It felt evil.”

“We need to be aware of this then. Could they be after one of us?” Thranduil asked.

“That I also could not say it has gone for the time being. Rest, Elrond before you collapse on us.” Mithrandir made it an order.

Elrond followed his instructions but with a growl and a glare.

Silence filled the chamber as Thranduil and Glorfindel continued to sponge Legolas down, Mealena testing for any improvement every minute or so.

They all had to smile, despite their worry as Elrond slipped into sleep, still in Elrohir’s arms.

It was with a lighter heart that they returned to their task.

Elladan did not even look up as his captor entered the cave. He was still in the same position; the way he was bound made it impossible for him to move.

“Hello, Brat I thought I would give you an update on our precious Prince.”

If Elladan could have he would have spat into that leering face. “He is not doing at all well, I am afraid. A corpse has more colour than he does at this moment. I overheard your father say that he does not expect him to make the morning. Such a shame really, I have someone who would really like to put him in his place.”

Telinia moved further into the cave and sat opposite the bound Elf.

“We have been giving him some additives with his herbs; they have made him very weak. Your wonderful healer of a father has not even guessed. If he does have the fortune to survive this he will become the pet of one of my men. He will love all that is done to him. We have found an herb that heightens all the senses. Pain, cold, fear he will feel all of them far more than normal. My friend’s idea of fun is to give this drug and then watch as they are made to suffer. There will not be much left of the Prince once he has served his purpose.”

Elladan’s eyes were wide as he listened. Suddenly some of Legolas’ physical symptoms made sense. The way Legolas felt the cold so badly; the pain that he had suffered from the wound in his arm. Then another thought came to him. Why was Telinia telling him this? He could use it against him.

That could only mean one thing if he did ever leave this cave he would not be in one piece nor would he be alive. His mouth went all the more dry at that thought.

“As for you, I need a little something from you that I can give to your father as the last little present had no effect. It will have to be something a little more... persuasive. What shall it be?”

Elladan could only watch as the Elf before him pulled out his knife and waved it in front of his eyes. “A finger perhaps, would your Ada like that? No? A toe perhaps? Or maybe an ear?” The knife hovered above his right ear. It was then that Telinia saw the Mithril chain that hung around Elladan’s throat. Using the tip of the knife he pulled the chain from beneath Elladan’s robes.

“What do we have here then? A keepsake? From a lover? How touching, I wonder how she will feel for it to be returned covered with blood? No? You do not like that idea? Pity, as that is what will happen.” He moved to lift the chain over the dark head. Then he made another slice along the pale cheek with the knife causing Elladan to flinch back. “Oh dear, poor little Elfling did that hurt?” As he was speaking he rubbed the chain and pendant into the blood that was streaming from the cut high on the cheek bone.

“That will do nicely, I am sure that your Adar will love receiving this. Oh and I brought you some water. I will leave it just here for you. Enjoy it and I will be back to see you with more news very, very soon.” With that Telinia’s made for the cave entrance and disappeared into the growing twilight leaving Elladan on his own once more.

He sat glaring at the water; there was little else he could do. He could not reach it and how ever much he wanted the water it was impossible.

Silence fell along with dusk and Elladan could not help but shiver, he was tired cold and scared. And that was nothing against the raging hunger and thirst that he was feeling.

A sound at the entrance to the cave made him freeze. Telinia’s would not be back this soon and no one else knew where he was. The only other thing it could be was either a spider or Orcs. Neither would be particularly welcome at present.

Footsteps sounded and he tried to make himself smaller as the sounds came nearer. Sudden light flared and shadows formed. A long shadow was moving towards him.

Around the corner came a dark haired figure and Elladan tried to shout through his gag. He stopped though when the figure came into view and held a finger to his lips in the universal gesture for silence.

As he moved nearer the torch flared and Elladan got his first good look at who it was that moved so stealthily before him. The figure was tall and thin with long braided black hair. The elegant ears of an Elf were all too evident.

Elladan felt himself sag with relief for the Elf before him was none other than Brolinth. One of Thranduil’s guards. Moving swiftly towards the bound elf, he set the torch on the floor and released the gag so that Elladan could speak. All that came out was a dry croak.

“Here I have some water. Let me help and then I will free you.” Brolinth helped him to drink the fluid easing back as the other Elf tried to gulp it down in one. “Easy you will make yourself sick.” He then began the work to release his arms and legs.

“How did you know how to find me?” His voice was still gruff and croaky from dryness and disuse.

“I was on patrol earlier and received a message from the King he wants to speak with me. I was travelling back when I saw Gilaen; he was acting oddly so I followed him. He came here. There is something in these woods that should not be.”

“You mean apart from Orcs and spiders?” Elladan could not hide his disgust.

“Yes, apart from them. I followed him and waited until he had left, before coming in to see what had him out here in the first place. I did not expect to find you, Elladan.”

The Twin hissed as circulation returned to his limbs. The other Elf quickly began to rub the life back into them. “I have been here three days. Telinia’s has been holding me ransom so that King Thranduil will give up Mirkwood. I need to get back to the palace.”

“We will, we will go together but first we need to get your legs able to support you. Who is Telinia?”

“I forgot, sorry. Gilaen is not his true name he is really Telinia and holds a grudge against your King. We need to stop him.”

“Come then, Mellon we need to get out of here before full darkness falls.” He helped Elladan to stand and lifting the torch high he led the way out of the cave.

Elladan followed closely behind Brolinth. As he left the cave and was in the free air he could only sigh with relief. He was away from that awful place and soon he would be back with his father and friends. He could then see that Legolas was alright, Telinia had to be telling falsehoods in regards to the prince.

“Brolinth how is Legolas?” He had to ask.

“The Prince is in very poor condition, I am afraid. The King spoke in council yesterday to warn us that all that he may well die.”

Elladan could only gasp in shock, he had been sure that Legolas would recover but now...

“I know, we are all praying for him. The Prince is well loved and this would devastate us.” They were making good time back to the Palace. Brolinth knew all the short cuts that would help. “I think when we get back to the palace we should sneak you in. If Gila... Telinia sees you he will know that the game is up. I will ask you to wait outside in hiding while I speak with Galion about the best way to get you in without being seen. Is that acceptable to you?” Brolinth asked with a sideways glance.

“Yes, that is alright with me, I have no rush to return to the cave and captivity, thank you!”

So it was that Elladan was hidden behind a large old Mallorn tree that stood in the courtyard before the palace doors. He could see all that was happening about him. He watched as Brolinth entered the Palace, the great doors closing behind him.

Thirty minutes later a dark figure could be seen making its way from around the side of the palace. It made directly for the Mallorn tree. Brolinth gave the whistle that they had chosen for their signal and Elladan relaxed back once more as the other Elf joined him.

“I have spoken with Galion and he has suggested that we use the side entrance that goods are brought in by. He is waiting with some trusted guards so that you can mix with them and no one will be the wiser. Come, I fear that your father is chaffing at the bit to see you.” Brolinth was smiling as he made the last comment.

“Ada knows that I am safe?” He was eager to get to them now.

“No, Galion did not want to warn them in advance if Telinia is a traitor then there are likely to be more; we need to wear our hoods. All of us will be. That way no one can see our fasces.”

They had made it to the door that Galion had pointed out to Brolinth. Elladan could not hide his relief as the warmth seemed to surround him. Galion moved towards him with a wide smile of welcome.

“Hir Elladan, you have no idea how pleased I am to see you. Your father and brother have been frantic about you.” Galion gave a low elegant bow.

“It is very good to see you as well. I was beginning to think I would never see you again. May I see my Father and brother?”

“Of course, please follow me. Everyone put your hoods up. I have had the hallways darkened so that you will not stand out.” Saying this he handed Elladan a dark cloak which he quickly donned.

The trip through the palace was made in silence with only one stop when a servant entered the hallway, luckily his back was towards them and he did not see them. The closer they got to Legolas’ chambers the more nervous Elladan grew. He could have screamed aloud with frustration as Galion once more motioned for them to stop. The reason became all too clear very quickly.

Closing the door to Legolas’ chamber was Telinia, looking very pleased with him self. How Elladan wanted to wipe that smug look off that face, but for now he had more important things to attend to. Telinia would wait for later.

A knock on the chamber door woke Elrond from the light sleep that he had fallen into, he had found he could not really relax and sleep. He was too worried about Elladan and Legolas for that. A quick glance told him that Legolas’ temperature was still on the high side. Estel and Mithrandir had taken over the job and Glorfindel and Thranduil were currently resting with a glass of wine.

At Thranduil’s bidding the chamber door opened to reveal Gilaen. Thranduil frowned at his guard. There really was something about this Elf that he did not like, he also realised with a stab of shock that he did not trust him either. That was not good; he would need to speak with his friends, Galion and Melthanil, his Head captain about this.

“Your Majesty, this letter arrived a few minutes ago. The messenger said that it was urgent. I could not find Galion, Sire so I brought it to you myself.”

“Thank you, Gilaen. That will be all.” Thranduil accepted the parchment, his voice cold.

“How is the Prince, Sire? We are all worried.” The guard turned to look at the Prince, unaware that both his King and the Maia were frowning at him.

“He is not doing well, I am afraid. Thank you for your concern.”

“I will let the others know that we need to continue our prayers.” With that Telinia moved from the chamber closing the door behind him.

“I do not trust that Elf what so ever.” Thranduil could not help but comment as he looked at the parchment in his hands. “Elrond this is for you.”

Elrond accepted the missive and did not hesitate to slip a nail under the seal, noting as he did so that no cipher had been used. As soon as the seal was released something slithered out onto his hand and he could barely catch his breath as he realised what it was that he held. It was Elladan’s necklace, the one given to him by his mother before she sailed west to the Havens. All three of them had one.

The one in his hand was covered in blood, dried blood.

“Elrond, I...” Thranduil was cut off by another knock on the chamber door. They all looked up.

The door opened to reveal Galion and two robed figures. Saying nothing, Galion motioned for the cloaked figures to enter and he closed the door behind him.

“Sire, I found these two... vagabonds earlier this evening. I thought that you might all like to meet them.” Galion was actually smiling as he looked at them all.

“Galion what?”

The two figures lowered their hoods and the chambers previous occupants could only gape; before both Elrond and Elladan jumped up to hug Elladan.

“Elladan, by the Valar. How?” Elrond did not think he had ever been so pleased to see someone.

“It is a long story, Ada but thanks to Brolinth, I am safe.” He had to smile as his father began to look him over, clucking over the joint cuts on his cheeks.

“I am fine, Ada just hungry.” At his words Galion left the chamber to find Simnella and organise some food for the young Elf. “How is Legolas, Ada? I was told he is dieing.”

Elladan could not take his eyes off of the figure on the bed. “He is not doing well, I will admit. But first what happened to you?”

“I woke in a cave two hours from here. I was held by an Elf called Telinia. You would know he better by the name of Gilaen.” He gave a grim smile at their gasps of shock. “He is working with his father, Polinias.”

Thranduil could feel the anger rising within him. One of his own guards! One of his guards was behind this.

“He told me earlier when he came for my necklace that he had been feeding Legolas an herb that makes everything feel much more than it should. He also said that....

“Ada, I think you need to come and look at Legolas.” Estel’s voice was urgent and cut across Elladan.

“What is wrong?” Elrond was moving almost as soon as Estel had finished speaking.

“He is having trouble breathing, Elrond.” Glorfindel also sounded urgent.

Elrond could see what they meant the minute he was beside Legolas. The young Prince was struggling to breath, each breath sounding laboured and harsh. Once more a blue tinge ringed the pallid mouth.

He sat beside him, feeling for a pulse. “Glorfindel, Estel I need you to sit him up, that should help ease his breathing somewhat.” They were half way through this when Elrond realised that the harsh breathing had stopped.

“Get him flat! Now!!” He did not have the chance to explain as he rested a hand over the younger Elf’s chest. “He is not breathing. Glorfindel, pull that pillow out, he needs to be completely flat!” Even as he was speaking Mealena was moving in to stand beside him and was ready to hand him what ever it was that he needed.

As soon as Legolas was flat Elrond was assessing him once more.Out of the corner of his eye he was aware of Mithrandir and Brolinth holding a distraught Thranduil back, all the King could think of was getting to his son and helping in anyway he could.

Elladan had fallen onto the bed next to his brother, shocked to the core at what he was witnessing, whatever he was expecting it certainly was not this.

All was silent as they watched Elrond work. First he pulled back the prince’s head until the neck was arched, making sure that the airway itself was clear he began to blow gentle breathes into the lax mouth, tightly pinching his nose so that no lifesaving air could escape that way.

Once, twice, three times Elrond gentle blew air into the static lungs, he then turned to watch and see if Legolas was breathing for himself.

“There is no change, Ada.” Estel’s voice was low and urgent.

Elrond repeated the process once more, he was not sure in the end just how many times he breathed for Legolas, and they seemed to run into one another. He was just about to give up when he caught sight of Estel’s anguished eyes and he knew without anything being said that all three of his sons would be left in deep mourning should he pronounce Legolas dead. For that reason and also for Thranduil’s sake he decided to try a few times more.

It was after the fourth new attempt that the impossible happened and Legolas took a shaky breath. Only slight at first and barely noticeable, but it was followed by another slightly stronger one. As they all watched, not one of them daring to take a breath themselves; he took a deeper, stronger breath.

Then another, soon he was berathing even more strongly and Elrond sat back with a shaky sigh. That had been way too close for his liking.

“Elrond?” Thranduil’s voice sounded as shaky as he himself did.

“He is breathing for himself once more. We will need to keep a close watch on him so that this does not happen again. Elladan you said that this Telinia’s told you he had been adding to the medicinal herbs that we use. Did he say what he had been adding?” Elrond turned to his eldest son.

“No, Ada sorry. He only said that he had added to the herbs and that they were designed to make him feel things more. Like pain and the cold.” Elladan’s voice was grim as he finished explaining.

“It also held other herbs, one of which was a poison. I need to check Legolas over once more.” he made to stand but Elladan began speaking once more.

“He also said that there was someone who wanted Legolas and that it was he who had provided the herb. He said that there would not be much left of Legolas when his ‘friend’ had finished with him. What he meant by that I do not know. He was... odd, Ada that is the only way I can describe him. He seemed to be on edge all of the time. I honestly did not think that I would get out of that cave alive. If it had not been for Brolinth...”

Elrond reached to hug his distraught eldest son. He had to smile as both Elrohir and Estel joined him.

“I have much to thank you for, Brolinth. How did you find my son?”

“I had a message from Galion saying that the King wished to speak with me and as I was making my way back through the forest I saw Gilaen acting very strange and decided to follow him, something just did not seem right. He entered a cave that I have never been aware of and stayed there for some time.”

“You can show us where this cave is?” Thranduil spoke up from where he stood next to Legolas.

“Yes, sire I can show you exactly where it is.” Brolinth was adamant.

“Good, we will do that, but for know go on.” Thranduil gently brushed his fingers across the clamy forehead of his son.

“Well, I waited until he came out and he looked so pleased with himself I just had to investigate. I never once expected to find Elladan. He was trussed up like a chicken. I released him and we came back here as soon as we could.”

“Good, that means his trail should still be fairly fresh. Galion, I want a patrol to go with Brolinth to this cave and check it out. I want it done quietly and without fuss. Only the most trusted guards, do you understand? I want the cave watched. We need to know where these Elves are meeting and just who is involved. They will have to kill me before they get to Legolas. This stops and soon. Go, get this arranged for me?” This latter to Galion who nodded and swiftly left. “Brolinth, before you leave; you have my thanks for returning Elladan to us safely. I have no doubts that without your brave actions they would not have kept him alive for long.” Thranduil smiled at the guard, when a new post as officer was forthcoming, and it would be as soon as Gil... Timethla was caught; Brolinth would certainly be in the running.

“It was my honour to serve you, Sire. I wish to continue to do so.” Brolinth bowed deeply before leaving the chamber.

“Yous aid you wanted to check Legolas over, Elrond?” Thranduil gave his son a small sad smile.

“Aye, after what happened and with what Elladan has told us I think it more than a good idea to do so.”

They all watched as Elrond did just that. He checked his pulse, then his temperature. He then moved on to chek the Princes motor responses. Frowining at just how weak the left side had become, more so than previous. But it was when he checked the pupil responses that he really began to frown, gnawing at his lip at what he found. Finally he sat back with a deep sigh before looking up at Thrandiul who stood beside him.

Thranduil frowned back at him worry and fear clear on the ageless face. The room was silent and he realised that it had been since he began his examination.

“Well, Elrond? What is it? Please, you are scaring me.” Thranduil’s voice rose in panic by the minute as Elrond remained silent.

Elrond could not speak because he knew he would have to word this very carefully. One, he did not want to cause unnecessary panic, if he were wrong and secondly Legolas needed them all to be calm for his sake.

He took a deep breath and was about to speak, but he then became aware of just how qiuet the room was, too quiet. He looke back down at Legolas and coud only wince at the grey pallid colour of the normally procilain face. Once more the lips were tinged with blue, but though the Prince was still breathing, he was not breathing as he should. Instead of strong steady breathes, they were weak and seemed to be taking longer spaces between them.

Elrond reached for the thin wrist, the pulse was weak and slow. This was not good. He had just opened his mouth to ask for some herbs to strengthen the repspiration when the pulse beneath his fingers gave a weak flutter and then stopped.

Chapter Fourteen

Elrond froze for the length of time that it took for him to take a shaky breath before calling out orders. His head was swimming, this could not be happening. He watched proceedings as if from a great distance, but found he could not move from where he currently sat.

He could see his son’s and friend’s mouths moving, but no sound seemed to be coming from them. He blinked. This was not right. He needed to be doing something, what it was he did not now.

His arm being grabbed woke him from his stupor and he looked up to see a worried Mithrandir shaking his arm. “Come; sit over here out of the way. Let Mealena and the twins see to Legolas. You are in no fit state to do so.”

“No, I need to....” Elrond had to stop as his world suddenly tilted and then turned black. Mithrandir caught his old friend easily. He sighed; they had been expecting this for some time. Elrond had not been looking after himself; he was more worried about Legolas and Elladan to think of his own health.

Mithrandir settled the unconscious Lord onto one of the pallets making sure that he was comfortable and only sleeping. This last crisis had just proven too much in one who had not had a long unbroken sleep in weeks. He turned back to where the others were and watched as Mealena and Estel worked on Legolas desperately trying to get Legolas breathing once more.

Elladan and Elrohir moved out of the way and made their way over to their father’s side. At Elrohir’s insistence Elladan sat down watching Legolas as his brother checked his father over.

A knock at the door startled those who were not concentrating on Legolas and Glorfindel opened the door to find Telinia his hand raised and ready to knock again.

“What can I do for you?” Glorfindel’s voice was cold and the other Elf blinked.

“I wanted to check on how the Prince was doing, the other guards and I were worried and asked me to come and check.”

I’ll just bet you were worried. Glorfindel thought as he watched the other Elf. He looked over his shoulder briefly, noting that Elladan was well out of the line of sight. This may work in their favor...

Glorfindel reluctantly opened the door further noting the other Elf’s eyes widen in pretend shock.

“What are they doing? They are hurting the Prince, Sire!” Telinia made to move into the chamber but was stopped by Glorfindel’s hand on his arm.

“The Prince has stopped breathing; they are trying to help him. Once we have news I will inform you all. Now please they need to concentrate.” With that Glorfindel gave the other Elf a rough, forceful shove.

Telinia found himself looking at a closed door. He smirked, pleased with what he had seen. His father would be most pleased. If Legolas died then his father would undoubtedly sail and Mirkwood would be theirs for the taking!

He schooled his face into a suitably concerned face as he turned to leave. Come the morning he would visit Elrond’s brat and tell him the sad news of the Prince’s demise.

He did not hide the jaunt in his step as he made his way down the corridor, he would need to meet with the others so that they could be informed of the events that were unfolding. By morning Mirkwood would be in deep mourning.

Thranduil was vaguely aware of the knock on the door, but he could not move from where he was, nor could he take his attention away from his son. He heard Telinia’s call but ignored it. As Glorfindel returned to his side Thranduil heard the Elf say to him self.

“He will pay for what he has done. By Eru, he will be made to suffer.”

That caused Thranduil to give a small grimace of a smile. He could not think of that, all that he could think of was Legolas.

Estel was counting as he pressed down on the still chest of his friend, his mind reeling. This could not be happening. Legolas could not die. He stopped waiting as Mealena blew a breath into the lax mouth before reaching for the pulse point at the Prince’s throat. A shake of the head and they were off again.

Estel had only seen his father do this once, it had failed. But afterwards they had discussed what was done and why. He thanked the Valar that they had.

Once again he waited as Mealena blew a breath into Legolas’ mouth. Again he reached for the pulse. This time he gave a jerky nod to say that there was a pulse and as they watched Legolas took a small uneven breath. Mealena kept his fingers on the weak fluttery pulse, praying for it to continue.

Estel watched aware of Thranduil waiting impatiently at his shoulder. This had frightened the young Human. There were normally two ways that a seriously ill patient stopped breathing. The first was when just the lungs stopped moving but the heart continued to pump, as had happened earlier. The second was when both heart and lungs stopped moving, that was the worst. It was harder to start both beating and expanding again.

It had been successful this time, but what would happen if this was to happen again? Every time it happened they ran the risk of Legolas becoming even more brain damaged. The thought of the bright intellect gone forever made him shiver with sudden cold.

“Mealena how is Legolas?” Thranduil could stay silent no longer.

“He is breathing once more, but it is very weak. We will need to keep a close eye on him. This could happen again until we find out what he has been given. How is Elrond?”

“Asleep. This was just one shock too many, I think.” Mithrandir said watching once more as Mealena eased his cramped muscles before beginning to tidy up the bed space and making Legolas comfortable once more.

“Yes, I was tempted to give him a sedative last night. This is better, more natural.” They all looked over to the Elven Lord who slept with his eyes closed, a sure sign of his exhaustion.

Elladan was sat beside the bed with his father’s hand in his; the other hand was around Elrohir’s shoulder. He did not want to let go. Another knock made him jump and he grinned sheepishly at his twin. Elrohir smiled his understanding; Elladan would be jumpy for some time following his

Elf napping.

It was Galion who entered on Thranduil’s orders, followed quickly by Simnella. They both carried trays of food. A full meal for Elladan to make up for some of the meals he had missed recently and some soup and berry pies for the others. They had even brought some light soup for Legolas, not that he could eat it.

Once Galion had placed his tray in front of Elladan he crossed to the King’s side. “How is the Prince, Sire?”

“He is not very good, Galion. He has just given us an almighty scare.” Thranduil’s face was grim as he glanced at his friend.

“We brought him some soup. Shall I put it by the fire?” Galion tried to hide his dismay at how poorly his Prince looked. It seemed that every time he left the chamber for what ever reason, the Prince always looked worse than he had previously, when he got back.

“Yes, please, Galion. There is no way he can have it at present.” As they watched Thranduil brushed the sweat that was once more gathering on the pallid forehead away.

Thranduil sighed; he had hoped that in the aftermath of the last crisis that maybe Legolas’ temperature would cease to be a problem. It looked like his assumption was wrong for Legolas was once again that awful clammy hot that Thranduil was coming to hate.

They all watched this tender scene, Elladan gobbling his food in rather a un-elf like manner. Even Simnella had stopped to watch the King with his son. It was a sight that could and did bring tears to the eyes.

“Come, Thranduil you need to eat and have a rest.” Glorfindel and Mithrandir moved to the King almost at the same time.

“I will sit with Legolas while you eat.” Estel said gently taking the hot cloth from the King’s shaking fingers. Reaction to what had just happened was sinking in.

“Very well, is Elrond alright? I do not think I have ever seen him faint before.” Despite how shaky he was, he was worried about his friend.

“Yes, he is just sleeping. Like you he needs rest and warm food.” As he was saying this Glorfindel offered him a bowl of soup, one eye raised.

Thranduil was not really hungry but he ate to appease the others. But when he took the first bite he realised that he was famished. Soon the bowl was scraped clean and he blinked at it tiredly, with a hint of surprise.

A laugh made him look up and Glorfindel was there once more with a plate of bread and cheese. To everyone’s amazement he soon finished that too.

“You were hungry.” There was amusement in the Balrog Slayers voice.

“More than I realised. Is that some berry pie by any chance?” His keen nose picked up the familiar smell. Oh, how Legolas loved these pies. He could not stop himself from looking over at his son. Legolas had not moved.

Simnella had caught what was going through his mind, though. “As soon as the Prince is well enough I will make him all the pies that he wants, for every meal if that is his wish.”

That earned him a grateful look from Thranduil and a snort of laughter from Elladan. Thranduil turned to him with a look just like his own father’s. It was so realistic that he almost choked on the food in his mouth.

“If Legolas eats pies at every meal he will soon be a very fat little Prince!” This was an old joke, they all knew how much Legolas liked his pies and he always said that if he did not ration them then he would be a fat little Prince.

They all had a laugh at this, although Thranduil would have given anything from his treasury for it to have been Legolas saying that very thing.

“Thank you, Simnella. Legolas would thank you himself if he could.” Thranduil’s voice was sad.

“I know Hir Nin but he will, we all have to believe that. Soon the Prince will be well and we will wonder what we were so worried about, especially when Legolas and these holy terrors get going again!”

“Yes and then we will hear you wishing for peace. Do you remember what they did last time they were here?” Galion could not help but tease, trying to ease the gloom that had settled over the chamber.

“How could we ever forget? I almost had a riot on my hands! The warriors wanted to skin them alive, Legolas included! I think even now they check there bed rolls to make sure there are no ‘special’ additions added!”

“We are in the chamber, you know.” Estel sounded highly affronted, but his eyes had a gleam of amusement in them. That had been fun and it had been all Legolas’ idea. He had justified it by telling them of the prank that they had pulled on him.

“Oh, be quiet we are talking about you, not too you!” Glorfindel laughed at the looks on their faces.

“That is not fair!” Elrohir piped up leaving Elladan free to shovel the last of the mashed potato from his plate into his mouth.

“It is very fair, Penneth. If you act like children, we will treat you like children. Is that not right, Glorfindel?” Thranduil’s eyes held a hint of the mischief that normally shone brightly from his son’s.

“That is very right, Thranduil. And do not think of putting ants into my bed, I am more than aware of that trick now!” The others laughed.

“I do not wish to have more queues of grumbling patients at my door with multiple bite marks from their bedding.” Mealena was laughing with them, it had been so funny seeing grown Elves itching and grumbling like Elfling’s. “At least not until Legolas is well enough to both instigate it and join in with the fun.”

“Now that is one stipulation I agree with.” Thranduil looked suddenly serious. “I will also make it a decree that for the first two weeks after Legolas is well recovered that none of you will be punished for your actions. Just so that I can sit back and watch the fun and praise the Valar that he is well enough to cause mayhem!”

The two young Elves and the one human looked far too shocked for him to remain serious. “Just make sure there are no ants and no dye, this time!” He could recall the visit before last when they had added the dye to his shampoo. He did not look good with bright orange hair; thank Valar that had only been temporary, thanks to Legolas’ intervention. He did not wish to think of how he would look sitting in session at court with the brightest orange hair instead of his usual blonde.

“We promise there will be no ants and no dye. That was funny though.” Elladan could not help but laugh at the memory of the proud and mighty ruler of Mirkwood with orange hair, bright orange at that. They still could not believe the King had fallen for it, but then so had Glorfindel not so long ago.

“I thank the Valar that I had no petitions that day. Can you imagine being seen by my subjects like that?” Thranduil was openly laughing now, the others joining in until they realised that there was a slightly hysterical tinge to it.

Glorfindel tried to soothe his friend, who was now crying and unable to stop. Shock did that sometimes as they all knew.

It was a while before Thranduil composed himself, sitting back with a tired sigh. He took the glass of wine that Mealena handed to him without thought. He sipped the wine. It was not long later that he gave a loud yawn before setting the goblet down.

He blinked blearily at the others in the chamber. Why was he suddenly so tired?

“Come, Thranduil lay down beside Legolas, you need to get some rest.” Mealena gently helped his Liege to stand and led him across to the bed like an errant Elfling. The others watched amused as the King sat down on the bed. He was asleep before he had even become aware of where he was.

“You drugged him?” Glorfindel asked, stunned.

“He needs the rest as much as Elrond does. He would not sleep without it. I know Thranduil all too well. He would have forced himself to stay awake. This way there is no argument.” Mealena sounded pleased with himself.

“He will not thank you for that!” Glorfindel’s voice was full of admiration for the healer.

“Ah, I am used to it, he is used to it.”

“You healers can all be sneaky.” Mithrandir had moved so that he was beside Estel and Mealena.

“Yes and we get no thanks for it either!” Mealena had gently covered the king with a warm blanket before walking around the bed to take Legolas’ temperature. He frowned when he realised that the Prince was once again way to hot.

They spent the night between them trying to bring down the temperature and trying to be quiet as they worked so that they did not wake the sleeping Elves. Elladan had fallen asleep soon after Thranduil, exhausted by his ordeal.

The weak autumn sun rose the next morning with what seemed like reluctance. The same could also be said of some of the occupants of a chamber that was situated on the second floor of the palace.

Elrond woke to find him self decidedly stiff as he yawned and stretched. It was then that memory returned and he sat up with a gasp looking around him. He only relaxed when he saw Legolas who was being tended to by Mithrandir.

“Legolas?” Elrond wasted no time with niceties and he stood and hurried to the Maia’s side.

“His condition is unchanged. Estel and Mealena managed to restart his heart and he has been like this since. How are you feeling?” The Maia’s bright eyes met his.

“Better, thank you. I needed that sleep although perhaps not at that particular point in time.” Was the wry reply.

“Well had you looked after yourself this would not have happened. Elrohir and Estel have gone for some hot food; you will eat it when they bring it.” There was a warning note in Glorfindel’s voice as he joined them. “Mealena has been asleep for about two hours; he at least looks after himself rather than running themselves into the ground. You worried me, Mellon-nin. I am glad that you are rested.”

“I am sorry, Glorfindel to have worried you. I am glad to see that Thranduil is sleeping as well.” He smiled back at his friend accepting the friendly rebuke.

“That is all due to Mealena. He is as handy with his sleeping herbs as you are. What is it with healers and their love of seeing their patients sleeping?”

“It makes then easier to handle! Mealena drugged Thranduil? Amazing! I am glad to see that Elladan is sleeping as well, he looks better this morning.” Elrond reached out to touch Legolas’ forehead wincing at the heat that was rising from the Prince.

“Yes, he had a couple of nightmares over night, but Elrohir helped him with them. He will need to be rested if he is going to show us where the caves are. We will need to wake Thranduil...”

“Too late for that. You two are worse than women for nattering!” Thranduil slowly sat up. “I have one hell of a headache, what did Mealena use this time?” He glowered at the two Elves and the Maia beside the bed.

“This time? You mean that he has done this before?” Elrond was smiling at his friend.

“Yes, every time Legolas is badly injured, Mealena seems to like having me sleep through the worst part of his recovery. I always get my own back, have no fear of that! Do you have something for headaches, Elrond?”

“Yes, wait for a minute and I will make a tea for you. We need to make plans for this morning...” A knock at the door and it slowly opened to show Estel and Elrohir laden with trays of food.

Glorfindel hurried to help them. “There is enough here to feed an army!”

“I am still a growing lad!” Estel could not help joking back. This was an old in family joke, they all laughed at the amount of food that the young man could put away.

“I hope that that is not all for you! You will grow fat!” The young human’s love of food was well known.

“Ada!” Estel’s indignant cry made them all smile. “There are eight of us apart from Legolas who need to break their fast. This will not last long, I will say that!”

The two of the settled the food down on the improvised herb table and began to hand the food out to those who had gathered around. Elrohir woke his brother who grumbled but sat up and took his platter anyway.

“We need to make plans for this morning. Telina will undoubtedly want to speak with Elladan and we need to follow him.” Thranduil turned to the oldest twin. “You remember the way to the cave? Brolinth certainly does and I want him on our group. We need to implicate him on your capture and the only way to do that is to follow him and catch him red handed.”

“You are not going; you need to stay with Legolas.” Elrond looked sternly at the King.

“This is my Kingdom and my son that this Elf” Thranduil spat the word out. “Has targeted. They also assaulted your son. There is no way that I am staying here. Legolas would understand that and would want me to lead the group. I am going and that is final!”

They glared at each other until Mithrandir spoke. “Thranduil has to do this, Elrond. The King’s word would be necessary for when Telina is brought to court. Besides it is his right and we will have loyal guards with us.”

“Very well, but I am going as well. Estel can stay with Glorfindel and Mealena to look after Legolas. But first I want to dress his wound and check him over. Organize the group of warriors that you need.” Elrond was already readying the things he would need while Mealena and Estel quickly cleared the table of the detritus left from the meal.

Thranduil was once more beside his son when Elrond took the soiled dressing from the wound and all gave a sigh of relief at the sight of the wound. It was still dark red and swollen but the pus that had been present in such quantity last time had decreased. Elrond gently cleaned it with warm water before smearing it with Athelas paste.

“It is beginning to heal. The cleansing from last time seems to have done the trick. I need a sample of blood later on so that I can try and find out what it is that Legolas has been given. That is most important. I have a feeling that Telina will not help us there.” Elrond was quickly and efficiently binding the wound. He had just finished when there was a knock at the chamber door.

It was Brolinth and on his back was his bow with a set of quivers. At his side was his sword. His whole countenance was grim. “I have gathered some of the guards that are loyal to you, Hir Nin. I also have two watching the doors to the palace so that he cannot leave without us knowing.”

“Very good, Brolinth. I just need to get ready and I will join you.” Thranduil nodded at the others and they hurried from the chamber to gather what they needed.

Five minutes later and they were all ready. Thranduil Took one more look at his son before they all left and headed out of the palace through the back door. No one saw them go. They waited patiently at a little copse that was situated at the front of the palace.

They did not have to wait long. Telina used the side exit and making sure that no one had seen him he headed in a meandering walk, just in case he had been seen, he was unaware in his over confidence that he was being watched.

Thranduil let him have ten minutes head start on them, he knew the trees about would answer their King and tell him exactly where the other Elf was.

They followed the trail and the trees directions. Ten minutes later the trees began to warn their King of danger ahead. They were agitated and out the group more on the alert.

Then it happened, that feeling that all of them had felt before. That eerie feeling that they were being watch. The feeling that raised the hackles on their back. Swords at the ready they carefully made their way forward, making no sound as they moved.

Suddenly the air was pierced by a blood curdling scream. They shared one grim look before the small group surged forward. It was not long before the group found who had screamed.

It was Telina lying on the ground. Blood pooled beneath him, his breathing rough and ragged in the still air. Elrond hurried to his side and checked him over before looking at Thranduil and shaking his head there was nothing he could do for the Elf. His own sword had been used against him and was still embedded in his abdomen.

Thranduil knelt beside him and gently asked. “Who did this, Telina?”

The glazed eyes looked at him, shocked before he gave a small smile. “Y..You know?”

“Yes, we are aware of who you are. Who did this to you?”

“E... Evil e... eyes, r..Red came from no where.” he gave a cough and blood dribbled down his chin.

“What did?” Thranduil was surprised at the Elf’s words.

“C.. creature, n... never seen before.” Another cough, this time more blood spilt from the graying lips.

“Tell my A... Adar t.. that I” Another cough this time the blood did not stop and with a small sigh the Elf’s fea fled him.

Thranduil closed his eyes saying a small prayer for the Elf before standing and looking at the others who still stood a look of shock on their faces.

“It appears that we may have another problem on our hands...”

To be continued.

Cachexia: a word used to describe feeble state caused by some serious disease ie: cancer

Chapter Fifteen

The walk back to the Palace was taken in silence. All were deep in thought. Thranduil especially was worrying. Was this a new attack on his kingdom? Was it a new type of dark animal that would rival the spiders and Orcs? Where did this leave them with Legolas? Now that Telina was dead, how on Middle Earth could they find out what herbs had been given to him?

On the other hand they were no nearer to finding the group behind this conspiracy and putting a stop to it. All they could do now was sit and wait and waiting was not one of Thranduil�s better abilities.

Brolinth had organised the Elven warriors once more. This time they had made a very makeshift stretcher that could be used to take the body back to the Palace. Once there, it would be examined properly to search for clues as to what had happened. That was the puzzle, Telina was a Mirkwood trained Elf and it was a rare sight to see one taken by surprise like this.

Elrond, meanwhile, was thinking ahead, as was his want, to what he could do to help Legolas to recover. The first thing he needed to do was to take some blood to examine. Hopefully that would give him some clue as to what had been fed to the Prince. They also needed to get his fever down and keep it down.

They had just reached the clearing that led to the Palace when they became aware of rapid hoof beats. Into the clearing leading the King�s and Elrond�s horses was one of Brolinth fellow warriors who had been left in charge of Legolas� safety.

Thranduil was just about to roar his anger at the unfortunate Elf when he spoke first, before the King could.

�Sire, it is the Prince, you and Hir Elrond are needed at the Palace!� The other Elf said nothing more, he did not need to, for without a word the two Elves mounted their horses and were gone. Without a word to the others the Elf turned and followed his King, hand on bow in case it was needed.

It was a rather disconsolate and worried group that followed on behind them, all thinking the worse and not wanting to admit it.

The Palace was in absolute uproar when they finally arrived. Thranduil�s aids were in a group in the large ornate hallway. Galion was in the middle of it trying to restore calm. It was an unenviable task as the group did not want to be calmed.

Galion spied them as they came through the double doors. �King Thranduil has asked that you join him in the Prince�s bedchamber!� He had to shout above the noise that the usually sedate and calm Elves were making.

It did nothing to calm the nerves that had sprung into the twin�s stomach and even Mithrandir�s brow was furrowed as they hurried on their way. With the current level of noise it would be hard to understand what the other Elf was saying anyway.

If they thought the hallway below was in a panic it was even worse upstairs. The guards that had been on duty were standing in a huddle rather like a group of human women chattering. The words were so soft and worried that even the twins could not hear what they were saying.

The chamber door was open, though and they headed for that. As they neared it they could hear Elrond�s voice calling out orders. They stopped at the door in shock. Legolas was once more still on the bed while Elrond was trying to revive him. Estel was helping him.

Glorfindel and Mealena were at the herb table cutting and slicing as fast as they dared. Both looked ruffled.

Thranduil stood to one side his face sheet white and he was trembling. Fear had lent him adrenaline but that was over now as he watched them trying to save his son.

It was Glorfindel who literally barked. �Close that damned door!�

Mithrandir did so and the noise level dropped to an acceptable level.

Elladan crossed to the King and helped him sit in the chair by the fire. It was like moving a mannequin, Thranduil went where he was led and sat when gently pushed. Apart from that, his whole attention was on Legolas.

That stopped when Estel called out. �He is breathing, Ada!�

�His pulse is far too fast!� Elrond was no longer pressing on the blonde�s chest but was feeling the pulse in the right hand. �I need some� no wait� it�s slowing somewhat. I�ll leave it at the moment. I need an herb to calm his breathing.� Indeed the Prince�s breathing was erratic and when he did breath it was with a rattle that set everybody�s heart and nerves on edge.

�What happened?� Elrond sounded as shocked as the others.

�He had a fit, a small fit and then he stopped breathing. We tried to get him back but Glorfindel thought you should be informed.� Mealena was still trying to come to terms with the fact that his Godson had died in his arms, so to speak.

�Yes, his fever is still too high. We need to get that down and find out what is causing this. Mealena I need to take a blood sample from Legolas can you get me a glass slide and can I use your office?� Elrond�s fingers were still on the erratic pulse that was causing him great worry.

�Ada?� It was Estel, his voice hesitant.

�Yes, Estel?� It was not often that he got annoyed, but this really was not the time for his son�s to ask inane questions that he could not answer. His voice reflected his irritation.

�I was wondering. We know that Legolas has been given a mixture of herbs to cause his body to reject him.� Elrond�s eyes widened as he listened to his foster son. He had not thought of it like that, but that was what was happening. The drugs were making the body fight itsself rather than them.

�Yes, Estel.� Elrond�s voice was different this time.

�We know one of them worked on his systems infection fighting ability. Could they have done the same for the system that sees to the body�s temperature control?� Estel�s voice had grown stronger as he was talking.

For what seemed like eternity there was silence as Elrond considered. Then Elrond burst out. �That�s it! I knew there was something that I was missing. The other injuries and symptoms have smothered it. Mealena, I need that blood now. Well done, Estel very well done!�

Estel smiled at his father�s praise. He had been thinking all the time that they had been trying to re-start the Elf�s breathing. Something�s did not add up.

�Legolas? How is Legolas?� Thranduil was beside his friend.

�He is very ill, but thanks to Estel we may finally be able to change that.� Elrond was busy straightening the left arm and pulling up the sleeve of his sleeping robe. He accepted the sharpened thorn that he could use to pierce the skin. Soon blood was dribbling down onto the glass plate.

Leaving Estel to see to the Prince�s arm and stop the bleeding, Elrond and Mealena headed for the chamber door.

The noise was still high, in fact it had increased if that were possible. It was the final straw for the over wrought King. Leaving Legolas with Estel he hurried to the door. Once through he closed it behind him. It muffled his voice but not fully. Those left in the chamber could still hear him fully.

�BE QUIET!!!� Thranduil fairly roared.

Silence fell, a shocked silence at that.

�Move away from the Prince�s chamber. Now!!� Estel looked at his brother�s and Glorfindel as they all heard the sound of retreating feet.

�I would not like to be in their shoes.� Was his wry admission.

Thranduil led the way down to the audience chamber, gathering up the chattering advisers, much to Galion�s relief.

Once in the chamber he turned to all of them, his face grim with a furious glint in his eyes. �What may I ask do you all think you are doing? You,� He pointed to the guards. �Are meant to be guarding my son from harm, why have you left your posts?� The sheepish guards made their way back to the first floor chamber. If they were still on guard duty it meant that their Prince and friend was still among the living. They had a new spring to their strides as they left the chamber.

�And you,� Thranduil turned to the advisors. He had known them all a long time, he had never thought to see them this way. �I would have thought better of you than that. What kind of an impression do you think you think that will make to my visitors and Lord Elrond at that! Do you think that your actions will help this situation any? Just when the healers and my son�s friends need peace and understanding you make this noise?�

The advisers at least had the grace to look embarrassed at their King�s words.

Thranduil�s head adviser stepped forward. With a deep bow he spoke. �We all extend our apologies, Sire. We were not really sure of what to do when the Human came running saying that it was urgent that you and Lord Elrond needed to be found. And when we were told that the Prince had died�� His voice trailed off his distress evident.

It served to calm Thranduil. �The Prince is alive have no fear of that. Lord Elrond has managed to revive him.� for now was the unspoken finish to the sentence, one that Thranduil really did not want to admit to.

The relieved sighs were enough to make the King give a very small smile. A smile that did not reach his eyes, however. Every time he saw Legolas like that it hurt him deeply.

�That is good news indeed, Sire. Please give the Prince our regards and say that we hope to see him well soon.�

�Thank you, as soon as he is awake, Fornaew, I will give him your regards. Now if you would all go about your business. As soon as I have any other news I will let you know. I would like to get back to Legolas. Galion, if I might have a word with you please?� Thranduil did not wait for the advisers to make a move. He left the chamber with Galion at his side.

Once in the hall, he led Galion to the Butlers own small office and closed the door behind him.

Galion waited patiently, he knew Thranduil well, indeed had served him for many millennia, now was not the time to try and goad his King into talking.

�We may have a big problem.� That caused the other Elf to raise his eyes in shock. A bigger problem than the Prince being targeted and almost dying? What could be bigger than that? Thranduil smiled mirthlessly at the other Elf�s surprise. �Just when neither of us thought it could get much worse, eh? Telina is dead. Something attacked him before we could get to him. I know not yet what it is. Will you please find Dagorran for me? Bring him to the Prince�s chamber? We need to step up the patrols and he along with Brolinth will be able to organise that.�

�Of course, Your Majesty, I will do so right away.� he turned with a small bow to leave the chamber but stopped when Thranduil spoke once more.

�Could you also bring us some wine? I think we could all use some. I know I could use it.� This time Thranduil�s smile was wry.

�As you wish.� Then Thranduil was alone in the chamber. For a second he slumped against the wall. Tired beyond anything he had ever felt before, even though he had slept recently he knuckled his eyes. He was drained more than he would have thought possible. The longer he stood there the less he wanted to move, all he wanted to do was curl into a ball on the floor and never rise again.

Somehow, Thranduil shook himself and forced himself to move. This was not helping Legolas. He left the chamber with a feeling of unease unfurling itself in his stomach.

Legolas� chamber was a great deal calmer than it had been and he hurried to Legolas� side. The Prince was still unconscious and looking grey but at least his lips were no longer tinged that awful blue. He took no notice of the other�s, hoping above hope they understood his rudeness. It was all the same if they did not. All that mattered to him was Legolas; he would not let this new threat bring further harm to his son. Legolas had already been through too much.

A goblet of wine was thrust into his hands and he startled. He looked up into the smiling face of Mithrandir. �At last, my friend. I have been trying to get your attention.�

�What?� Thranduil had to blink to clear the fuzziness that had once more crept over him.

�Galion said you wished to have some wine, Thranduil and I have stood here for five maybe ten minutes trying to get you to have it.� The youngsters, even Glorfindel were trying to hide their smiles and smirks.

It took a lot for the King to blush, but blush he did, and with sheepish thanks accepted the wine goblet with quiet thanks. He took a sip and raised his eyes to meet Glorfindel�s.

�Your favourite Dorwinion, Galion felt that you deserved it after the drama of the last few hours. Sit and try to relax, we will see to Legolas. I really want to try and get some fluid into him; I will also see if there is some weak soup or stew. He has lost far too much weight.� Glorfindel kept up his inane chatter, hoping to relax his friend. It worked and soon Thranduil was content just to be sitting with Legolas.

Mealena led the way back to his study off of the main healing wing. It was small and light with an air of peace. Along one side was a large desk that had trays upon it. Labelled and stacked in them were herbs of all kinds. Above the desk, on the wall, shelves full of books used in the art of healing. To one side was a large black velvet bag that lay on the desk. Bumps could be seen through the fabric.

�My office is yours when ever you need it. I will stay to help you as I know the lay out and it will save time. What do you need?� Mealena was eager and ready to do anything that could help the Prince.

�I need a fixing agent for the slide, also the herbs�� Soon they were busy.

After fixing the blood so that he could work with it easily, Elrond reached for the black velvet bag. Untying the loose drawstring, he then gently pulled the object from the bag. It was a large square piece of glass. Highly polished, it gleamed in the light of the chamber.

Making sure there were no smudges and that he could see through it clearly, Elrond bent over the slide. Calling out for different roots and herbs, he tested the blood for any herbs it might contain. They both worked steadily and in companionable silence. Elrond had always enjoyed working with the other Elf. He had a sharp, quick mind and was always well read, they had spent many an enjoyable afternoon when Mealena was doing his studies. This time it was not study, this time Legolas� life hang in the balance.

Two hours later, Elrond sat back with a contented sigh. They had found it, Estel had been right. It had been very cleverly done, if he had not known what he was searching for he would have missed it. Yes, he had not been sure what exactly he was looking for because there were several herbs that could have been used, but by testing for all of them, he had isolated the right one. Now to find the herb that would stop its effects.

It was another hour before they found the right combination. They mixed it right there and then before hurrying back to Legolas� chamber. Neither talked as they walked. This was what healing was about, this feeling of satisfaction at solving a problem, a problem that could kill, true, but a problem all the same.

Neither noticed the dark eyes that watched then from the shelter of a darkened alcove, eyes that were distinctly unfriendly.

The chamber was quiet when they got back to it. Estel was once again sponging Legolas down, Thranduil sat at his side. Glorfindel was mixing herbs to try and lower the young Elf�s temperature. Elladan and Elrohir were talking quietly to Galion. They all looked up as they entered.

�We have isolated the herbs and you were right, Ion-Nin they did target Legolas� temperature control. Well done. Thranduil can you help me sit him up? I have the herb that will counteract it.� Between the two of them they managed to slowly feed the potion to Legolas.

It was just as they were laying him back down and Elrond was covering him with the blanket that he noticed something.

�When did his hand get so swollen?� He had lifted it to tuck the covers in. The hand was very swollen.

�I have not noticed anything.� Thranduil looked at the hand he was holding and with a start he realised that this too was swollen.

�I need to have another look at him.� With Thranduil�s help they lifted the covers so that Elrond could look him over.

Elrond could have groaned with frustration. Both of Legolas ankles were swollen, so in fact were his legs. He pressed his gingers into the taut flesh and watched for it to spring back, it did not. His stomach was also swollen.

�Can any of you recall the last time Legolas passed any fluid?� There was a round of puzzled shakes. �Please try and think, this is very important. Mealena you were with Legolas when we were following Telina, can you remember?�

�No, Elrond, the last time with me was the day before yesterday.� Mealena was trying to wrack his brains.

�What is it, Elrond? What is wrong?� Once more Thranduil�s heart was on edge.

�Legolas is retaining fluid. This is not good. We need to make certain that he has a glass of fluid every hour. We need to keep any urine that he passes, I need to see it. I was hoping this would not happen.� Elrond stated annoyed at everything that had happened.

�Why, what is wrong, Elrond?� Worry once again sounded in the king�s voice, could nothing go right for his son?

Elrond looked up from the still prince to his father. He was aware that every single one of the chambers occupants was watching them. He took a deep breath, he needed to warn his friend of what may happen if this went unchecked but he also did not want to put the fear of the Valar into any of them.

�Legolas� kidneys are struggling, that is the reason he is so swollen, they are not removing enough fluids from his body. Mealena and I will need to keep a very close watch on this to try and make sure that this does not worsen. The reason we need to make him drink is to try and encourage them into working once more. If that fails, we may have to do the opposite and restrict his fluid intake.�

�What happens if you have to do that and it fails?� Thranduil�s voice was barely above a whisper as he asked the question he was not sure he wanted the answer to.

Elrond winced inwardly. This he had not wanted Thranduil to ask, but he also could not be anything other than honest. �If that happens one of two things may happen. The problem may settle on its own given time and rest.�

�If it does not?� Thranduil�s red rimmed eyes had not left his.

�In all probability they will fail completely and Legolas will die.� Elrond�s voice was very soft, but not one of them failed to hear him speak.

The chamber was silent, only the sound of the crackling fire in the hearth. Thranduil let his head fall and the curtain of blond hair fell over his face to act as a curtain. His eyes closed against the burning in his eyes, a burning that wanted to find release in hot tears. He blinked rapidly, he would not cry, he would not let others see him like this. Could it be that he would still loose his son?

A hand on his shoulder made him jump; he had not heard Elrond move to him. �Do not loose hope, at least not yet. There are measures that we can try. Be strong for him.�

Thranduil could only nod and when he could finally look up he could see the telltale brightness of unshed tears in all of the others� eyes.

�Help me cover him and I will give him the first of the water. This also may be a reaction to the herbs that he has been given.� With an encouraging smile at Thranduil, they moved to cover Legolas.

The afternoon passed in strained silence. Not once did Legolas pass a drop of fluid and that was causing Elrond more worry than he cared to let on. A surreptitious glance at Mealena confirmed his suspicions that the other healer shared his fear.

Dinner was an almost silent affair. No one really had the heart to try and pretend that Legolas� condition was even remotely beginning to change for the better, because it was becoming obvious that it was not. Brolinth had led a large contingency of warriors out to try and find the creature that had killed Telina. There was no news on that, either.

By the time night had fallen into full darkness, Thranduil could have screamed his frustrations aloud. The silence was not actually helping; indeed it only served to make matters worse. The silence was becoming oppressive. Even their movements seemed muted and it almost felt as if the whole of Middle Earth was mourning Legolas already. He could not cope with this, with just sitting and doing nothing.

He looked up and opened his mouth to speak. The others all turned to look at him. Whatever it would have said, Thranduil himself would never know. For at that precise moment a low moan sounded in the silence.

It was a moan that made Thranduil�s hair first stand on end and then made his heart rejoice. He looked back to the bed with a stunned look on his face. �Legolas? Ion-Nin can you hear me? It is Ada. Legolas?�

Elrond let out a shuddering breath as he hurried to the bed. There was no response from Legolas, though. He stopped and looked down at the bloated grey face. The eyes were still tightly shut; the only difference that he could see was that there was a frown marring that perfect forehead. A frown that certainly had not been there the last time that Elrond had checked him thirty minutes ago. Suddenly, the air had gone from being still and quiet to charged and electric in the chamber.

Elrond reached for the swollen wrist, fingers searching for the pulse point. �Keep speaking to him.� he distractedly told Thranduil, not taking his eyes off Legolas� face. Thranduil did as he had been bidden, trying to reach his only child, trying to bring him back from the darkness that was trying so hard to claim him.

The heat that still seemed to pulse from Legolas made Elrond frown, that was one thing that had not changed, at least. His pulse was weak and sporadic in a way that set Elrond on edge. He needed to find out what exactly was happening here, but he also did not want Mealena to see what he would be doing.

�Mealena, could you please go and ask for some very weak broth or porridge? If Legolas is waking he will need to try and eat.� Mealena was moving almost as soon as Elrond had finished speaking.

They all watched and waited and the minute the chamber door closed behind Mealena, Elrond had his eyes closed. One hand, his right, on Legolas heart and the other on the Prince�s forehead. In the brightly lit chamber the ring of power that sat on his right hand pulsed, making the light even brighter. The others all watched, hope filling them, a hope they had not felt in far too long.

Elrond tuned out all sounds in the chamber and reached deep within himself. He could feel the power that Vilya gave him and, as always, felt the thrill that the rings of power could give their bearers. It would be so easy to misuse them, so easy to give into the temptation that they could give.

Do not think of that, Elrond. Prince Legolas is in dire need of our help

Galadriel?

Who do you expect, Thranduil? He could hear the light, warm laughter that so characterised his mother-in-law.

It would not surprise me!That earned him another peal of laughter.

what do you mean about Legolas needing our dire help? Elrond was puzzled by that.

There is far more happening than we are aware of as yet. I have seen the future and at present it is very clouded for our dear Prince. What I have seen has confirmed something I have been seeing for a while Galadriel�s voice was suddenly serious.

What have you seen?

That you have in your hands one on whom tomorrows destiny lies. We have to save him or Middle Earth will have no future.

To say that Elrond was stunned at this proclamation was an understatement. It also raised more questions as well.

Legolas?!

Yes, Elrond, Legolas. More than just the three of us are aware of his importance as well. That is one of the reasons that he has been targeted. You need to look further into the herbs that he has been given, there is more than you have realised. Estel was looking in the right direction, but it goes further. Also guard Thranduil, the danger for him is not over. It rises in the west and grows stronger. There is great evil in Mirkwood. Something has been woken that should have been left to sleep. It will not sleep again. It thirsts for Royal blood, but whose I cannot see. But for the moment let us concentrate on Legolas. He tries to waken, but cannot. We need to change that. He will be confused and hurt, aid him. I wish I could travel to be with you as this problem may well require we three who carry the rings of power. Warn Mithrandi!. If he has not guessed already! Now concentrate and we shall see about waking my nephew.

He did as instructed and soon felt he was falling down what seemed to be a never ending tunnel. Never had it seemed to be this long. Normally, when reaching for a fea, they would be bright. This time, there was nothing but darkness. Just as he was about to give up and tell Galadriel that it was useless, that Legolas had passed beyond their help, another presence made itself known. A familiar presence to both Elves.

Mithrandir?

Yes, Elrond between us let us bring this rascal backThe Maia�s voice was gruff with emotion. Thranduil is close to despair

This time the darkness did not seem so complete. Neither did the fall seem so sharp and then out of the gloom came a weak flicker. Elrond did not wait, but threw himself at that small spark, knowing that the other two would follow him.

The light of Legolas� fea was weak and flickered alarmingly as they moved towards it. Elrond felt his heart sink. The normally bright and vibrant fea was weak and on the point of vanishing. If he had left this any later it would have been far too late.

Legolas? Penneth, you must reach for usElrond was already trying to reach for the Elven Prince.

Who? Where?Elrond winced at the weak and hesitant voice, it was not the vibrant voice he was used to.

We are here, Legolas. Reach for us and we can take you back, away from this place.

Ada?Legolas sounded so small and young at that moment that it was sad to hear.

He is waiting for you, all you need to do is come with us. Elrond tried to reassure the archer.

Listen to Elrond, Legolas, they all await you. Your Ada needs you.If Legolas would not do this for himself then Galadriel knew he would for his father.

Ada? Why? What is wrong?There was panic in the voice now.

He is close to despair, Legolas, and he needs you� please reach for us. I do not wish to lose you as well. If Elrond had not known better, he would have said that Galadriel was crying, her voice was so broken and sad.

It worked though, the light gave another weak flicker and brightened slightly and soon it was moving towards them, slowly at first and then faster as Legolas grew in confidence.

Soon he was nestled in the warm embrace of the three who had searched for him, at their touch, he seemed to strengthen and the more contact Legolas had with them the stronger his fea became. Soon they could lead him out of the darkness and into the bright light they were all used to.

I expect to see you soon, Legolas, work hard at getting better so that you can annoy your father with your antics with my grandchildren. Galadriel�s last lingering touch was full of the love that she felt for her nephew.

Elrond came back to himself in the chamber with a smile on his lips, a smile that grew when he heard the low groan that echoed from the bed.

�Elrond?� Thranduil�s voice was tentative.

�Look after your son, Mellon-Nin.� Elrond�s smile was wide and happiness seemed to sparkle from their depths.

�Look after� you mean? Legolas?� The blue eyes were wide as he looked back to his son in time to see the movement under the Prince�s closed eyelids.

�Legolas?� the brow wrinkled. �Legolas?� This last was said with greater confidence.

A hand on Elrond�s shoulder had him looking back into the twinkling eyes of Mithrandir. They turned back in time to see the eyes that had been shut for so long flicker open. Bleary blue eyes flickered around the bed to light on the one that he had been searching for.

�A� Ada?�

To be continued . . . .

Chapter Sixteen

Thranduil found that he suddenly could not speak, could not move� His mind and body seemed to have frozen with shock. This was what he had wanted and prayed for, for so long, but� could this truly be happening!?

�A� Ada?� There was suddenly uncertainty in that much-missed voice.

�Legolas?� Thranduil finally managed to croak out, profound emotions making his voice rough.

�Y� yes. A� Ada, a� alwight?� Legolas was trying to reach for him, his extended right hand shaking madly. The King could see the worry in his son�s eyes, worry for his father.

�Yes, Ion-nin, I am alright. I am more than alright now.� Thranduil was aware of the sudden noise that filled the chamber with the others� reaction to Legolas� voice, but he only had eyes and ears for his son. He could not stop staring at Legolas, drinking in every inch of him as if he had been starving for the sight of him. He was not even aware of the tears that slowly began to slide of their own volition down his face. This only served to worry Legolas even more and he reached to brush them away.

Thranduil started when the shaking fingers gently brushed his face. They missed their target, the tears, but for Thranduil this was the confirmation that he needed, the proof that he had not suddenly lost his mind. This was real. Legolas really was awake! His son was back with him! Suddenly, he was laughing.

He caught those fingers, feeling the tremors that Legolas could not seem to prevent. He brought them to his lips and kissed them, still laughing. Even to his own ears, the laughter held a slightly hysterical tinge. He tried to stop and found to his horror that he could not. The harder he tried, the more he seemed to laugh. Soon tears were running down his face, tears that he could not stop.

Thranduil could see the worry and fear in Legolas� eyes, but it seemed he could do nothing to allay it. All he could do was sit there and laugh. A sudden sharp slap on his cheek gave him the release that he needed. Slowly, he managed to get his breathing back under control, one hand cradling the stinging cheek. He looked up to find Elrond facing him, hand still raised, ready to strike again if needed.

Elrond, seeing that his friend was in control of himself once more, sighed with relief and lowered his hand with an apologetic look. He hated doing that, but Thranduil had been hysterical and this was the only remedy. Legolas needed his father, not a blithering idiot.

�Do you feel better now?� The Lord of Imladris raised those infamous eyebrows at the King.

�Yes, thank you Mellon-nin, I needed that help.� Thranduil gave Elrond a reassuring smile, before turning back to Legolas and taking his hand again. �I am sorry if I scared you, Ion-nin. I am well. I have been worried about you, very worried about you. How do you feel?� Thranduil self-consciously wiped the tears from his face.

�S� sore. W� what?� Legolas looked around the chamber, taking in all who were there. Each smiled at him with great relief. Elrond sat himself down on the bed beside him. Taking Legolas� left hand in his own he smiled down at the Prince.

�Do you remember what happened before you returned to Mirkwood, Legolas?�

�Y� yes.�

�What do you recall of your return here?� Elrond was watching him closely. He needed to know that Legolas was aware of what had happened before, needed to know that his mental faculties had not been damaged by his injuries or the poisons.

�A� attack.� It was one word but to all in the chamber it came as the biggest relief since seeing Legolas awaken.

�Good. Can you remember arriving here?� Elrond was gently stroking the trembling hand, watching as Legolas frowned.

�C� cold.� None of them were sure if Legolas meant then or now.

�You are cold?� Elrond felt his heart skip. He had hoped that this was finished, but then, Legolas had been, and still was, very ill.

�Y� yes.� His shivering was indeed growing stronger. Elrond was aware of both Elladan and Glorfindel quickly moving to tend the fire and to rekindle the brazier that had been left to die when Legolas� temperature had risen so dangerously high. It was still high, but they had other concerns right now. As long as Legolas was not too close to the heat, it would do no harm. Of course, if the fever grew again, the fires could be extinguished once more.

�The fires will warm you soon. What else do you recall?� Elrond hurried to reassure.

�G�Galion.�

�Good. You have been ill, as I said. The wound on your arm became heavily infected and you have been sleeping for a long time. You still need to rest, and rest a lot. I need to look at all your wounds, is that alright?� Legolas nodded his agreement. The last thing Elrond wanted to do was frighten the younger Elf with just how close they had come to losing him.

Both Glorfindel and Estel moved to help friend and father. Elladan and Elrohir moved forward to greet their friend and cousin. It was not often that they made note of the familial connection. Legolas was first and foremost their friend and always would be.

Mithrandir, meanwhile, sat with a groan. It had taken much from all three of them to bring Legolas back to the light. If they had left it any longer�. He did not care to finish that thought. Oh, he knew why Elrond and Galadriel tried not to use their rings of power, the seduction was great. Look at what had happened to the King of Men. No, it was best that the Elven rings be used only when absolutely necessary. This had, unfortunately, been one of those times. They could not afford to lose Legolas to the darkness. Mithrandir would not let that happen if he could help it.

He let out another weary groan. This occurrence had at least given them an inkling of what was truly happening in Mirkwood. This was not just a renegade Elf and his followers out to prove that he should have been King. Oh no, this was more, much more than that! They were all keenly aware that Sauron was beginning his ascent to power once more. All this bore the rank stench of his meddling, the darkness that had been crushing that bright spark of life. The next thing would be to find out just why Legolas had been targeted. He had more than a small suspicion that Galadriel had more knowledge of what was going on than she was letting on. Still, for it to have taken all of them to bring him back, spoke of the strength of the dark power that was linked to this.

He needed a smoke, no he longed for the comfort of the pipeweed. He always thought better with his pipe in his hand, but he also knew better than to even think of lighting it in this chamber. Once he had rested, he would go outside and indulge. No one could yell at him then! He smiled wryly at the thought.

He looked up from his musing in time to see Elrond removing the bandage from Legolas� thin arm. He could not help but wince at the sight. It had not improved at all. He somehow managed to get to his feet again and crossed to the bed. Legolas had his eyes tightly closed as Elrond gently prodded the swollen and angry flesh.

Thranduil held Legolas� right hand tightly, acutely aware from his returned grip that his son was in more pain than he was showing. At least with his eyes shut he would not see just how bad it looked.

The wound was still a deep red and the small wound that Elrond had made earlier to drain the pus was in the same condition as his original wound. Pus and serous fluid were present, the smell even more nauseating than before.

Elrond watched with clinical detachment as he pressed the inflamed skin. This could not simply be attributed to the potion used to suppress Legolas� Elven healing. He watched as a thin slither of pus slid from a small opening at the base of the wound. That had been there before, this small sinus . It had not grown but neither had it even begun to heal as it should have, especially after Legolas had been given the remedy to the herbs he had been given. He pressed again and watched as the foul fluid snaked its way down the pale skin, an idea began to form and Elrond could have groaned aloud at his own foolishness.

He looked up and spoke with Legolas, ignoring all the others in the chamber. �Legolas, I know that you in all likelihood do not wish to hear this, but I need to look further into this wound and I can see that it is causing you a lot of pain. I am going to give you a tea to help you sleep while I do this.� He held up his hand to forestall the alarmed outbursts from the room that had followed his statement.� I promise that you will only sleep a short while, but I need to look at this, it is important. Do you understand?�

�Y�yes, d� do.� Legolas was trying desperately not to look at the mess of his arm. �A� Ada?�

�Yes, Legolas?�

�W� wine?� Thranduil�s look of surprise was priceless.

�You want wine, Legolas?�

�N� no, y� you.�

Elrond turned to Thranduil. �I think, Thranduil, that what Legolas is trying to say is that while I do this, you should sit and have a glass of wine. Right, Legolas?� A shaky smile and small nod was Elrond�s small reward.

�Hmmm, I think that is a good idea, Ion-nin. I will go and speak with Galion. I will be back very shortly, Legolas. Will you be alright?� Thranduil�s answer was another weary nod. When he left the chamber Legolas caught Elrond�s arm.

�A� Ada, s� sleep?� Elrond shot him a look of surprise that slowly turned to a look of pure glee.

�Are you asking me to drug your father, young Prince?� He could hear the others� small gasps of shock and then muffled sniggers.

�Y� yes. Tiwed.� There was, unbelievably, an answering glint in Legolas� eyes.

�Yes, he is, Penneth. He has not been sleeping. He has been very worried about you. But yes, I will bow to your greater wisdom and give him something to make him sleep.� Legolas looked relieved as Elrond turned away to prepare. Estel took his place and began talking quietly with his friend. Yes, they were all very glad that Legolas was back with them.

The tea had been brewed by the time Thranduil had returned. Estel was still seated next to Legolas and he had concealed a small amount of extra sleep-inducing tea that was meant for Thranduil. Thranduil had brought enough wine to the chamber for them all to have a glass, except Legolas of course. Once the wine had been poured, he helped Elrond give Legolas his tea, all the while unaware that Estel was mixing a dose of the tea into his own goblet. By the time Legolas had finished and he had returned to finish his wine, there was no evidence of the addition and he sipped it as he watched Legolas fall once more to sleep. This time, though, Legolas wore a small smile.

As Thranduil watched, Elrond bent over Legolas� swollen arm. It was at that moment that Thranduil realised that it was not just the area around the wound that was swollen, but the entire arm, hand and fingers. He knew he should mention this to Elrond but suddenly he could not find the energy. With a sigh he settled back on the chair and let himself relax�

Elrond looked up at the King�s sigh and had to smile. Estel just caught the goblet before the contents spilt on the floor. The mighty Elven King was already deeply asleep in his chair. Happy for that, Elrond bent back to his work while others moved the King to a pallet.

The wound itself was deep and, as he pressed, more pus oozed from it. Glorfindel helped by gently wiping it away so that Elrond could see what he was doing.

Elrond sighed, unfortunately he had been right, and the sinus (1) ran deep. Accepting the long metal probe his friend passed to him from the table, he took a deep steadying breath and began to gently probe the wound. It was indeed deeper than he expected but he did eventually meet with resistance. Nodding to Glorfindel he then accepted the metal tweezers and taking a deep breath began to feed the thin tweezers into the aperture as well.

Silence filled the chamber as Elrond slowly pushed the metal instruments into Legolas� arm. It looked barbaric, but it had to be done, they might not fully understand what was happening for the time being, but all of them trusted Elrond, their father, friend and Master Healer. Estel was wincing with every small push. He could not help it; he was very glad that Legolas was asleep and could not feel what was being done to him.

Elrond, meanwhile, was slowly advancing up the length of the sinus. Glorfindel was ever ready with clean cloths to wipe away the fetid fluid that was escaping because of the intrusion. When Elrond finally reached the resistance he gently opened the tweezers and tried to grasp the blockage he could tell was there. The first attempt failed. Luckily the second succeeded and it was with relief that Elrond finally was able to pull back and withdraw the tweezers. It came free of the sinus with an awful sucking sound that seemed louder in the breathless silence that seemed to fill the chamber. Elrond did not take the time to look at the offending item he had removed; he just placed it on the table to look at later.

He then gently removed the probe. What followed next astounded even him. The wound seemed to slowly widen before his eyes. What had begun as a small sinus was suddenly becoming a large hole and as the probe pulled free, from behind it came what looked to be a huge, hard mass. Pressure seemed to be building behind it and Glorfindel reached for a new clean piece of cotton, ready to catch whatever it was.

As soon as the accumulation was free and out of Legolas� arm, more pus and gore poured from the wound as if it had been plugged and suddenly was free. Elrond had to admit the amount that was seeping out was fairly incredible, but at least it was now able to drain freely.

Together, he and Glorfindel washed the wound and their hands, making sure that as much of the foul fluid was removed as possible. Elrond then packed it with more Athelas that Estel had already prepared. The wound was then carefully wrapped with fresh bandages once more.

Elrond sat back with a tired smile and a small relieved sigh. Without being aware of it, so did Glorfindel.

�That was an awful amount of muck from the wound, Ada.� Estel was once more worriedly watching his friend as he slept.

�Yes, Estel, there was a large pocket of infection that could not fully drain because of the obstruction. Now that it has been removed, it will hopefully continue to drain and begin to heal, so should the rest of Legolas� wounds. I need to see what it was that I removed.� Elrond turned to face the small table that had been set up for this purpose.

He was not the only one who was curious, for as Elrond moved so did the others in the chamber. Everyone wanted to see what had caused such an awful infection. Elrond had to smile to himself, despite the seriousness of the situation. Legolas was so well-loved. If love could heal him, then Legolas would be well. If only it worked like that.

With a small sigh he picked up the long, thin tweezers that he had used and held the rounded, blunt end up to the light so that he could see what he had removed.

The moment Elrond saw it, he knew that his fears had been valid. It was a long thin piece of wood, at least it looked like it at first glance. But that guess would have been wrong, it was in fact a thorn, growing naturally to a fine, sharp point, the rest had been whittled away to make it smaller and more easily introduced into the body.

Elrond had seen such a thing before, but not for some time. He had rather hoped that this practice had died out. It seemed that he was wrong. He closed his eyes for a minute, trying to gather his exhausted wits together and give himself time to think, while the others looked at the thorn and came up with their own theories.

This practice of using thorns had started quite some time ago. A human, (It just had to be a human, didn�t it? Elrond thought to himself.) had come across the thorns one day after being chased by a land owner for trying to steal one of his chickens for his evening meal. He had been surprised by the owner and chased into the copse of woodland that bordered the farm. Inside had been the thorn tree and he had been caught by many of the tree�s defence mechanisms. Finally the farmer had given up the chase and had returned to the farm house. That left Dronestel free to extricate himself from the thorn tree�s grip and go about his business of finding his day�s food.

He had emerged from the bushes very bedraggled, with his clothes torn in many places, his hair wild and tangled with leaves. But it was the cuts and imbedded thorns that had mesmerised him, the way they had easily pushed into him without too much pain was fascinating. He had gone to the local healer with his find and soon Middle Earth had developed a new way of injecting potions and medicines into the body.

The Elves, of course, had known about the thorns and had used them for millennia. They had tried to teach their benefits to the human healers, but they were close-minded and non-receptive and it had been given up as a useless endeavor, although Elrond did still show the younger healers that came to train in Imladris. Thank the Valar, they had not been as obstinate as many of their elders.

That left another problem, though. The thorns were also found to be very handy for poisoning and so, unfortunately, were now used almost exclusively for this. Any type of drug could be injected and the victim would not even be aware that they had been targeted. It was a barbaric way of killing someone. Efficient, yes. Honourable? No. It was also cowardly.

But where had Legolas been injected and with what? On top of that, when had Legolas been injected? Legolas had never been alone since he was brought to Imladris. Someone had obviously been able to target Legolas and get near enough to him to do it. But then, no one had entered the chamber apart from Galion, Simnella, Brolinth and Daggorran. But they were all loyal and had shown great affection and even love for their Prince. So how in Ennor did Legolas come to be wounded with this thorn? He knew without a doubt that it had not happened while Legolas was in Imladris.

He would need to speak with both Mithrandir and Thranduil about this little puzzle. He looked up to see a distressed Estel being comforted by Glorfindel. The twins were talking at once to each other offering different suggestions only for the other to say the same thing. Through it all, Legolas lay on the bed, silent, pale and thin. Elrond had to admit the Prince of Mirkwood looked truly dreadful.

Estel had seated himself next to Legolas once more. �Ada, will Legolas be alright? He looks�.�

�I cannot tell you, Ion-nin. I have not seen. He may be too weakened to fight this fully. I know he is strong, Estel.� Elrond forestalled the protest that he knew would be coming. �But sometimes strength is not enough. We will fight this. I have the thorn and I have whatever the thorn�s point held. Let us hope that we can find the drug used.�

�You will be doing that?� Glorfindel stood, legs braced and arms crossed with a scowl on his face. He looked formidable and power seemed to radiate from him in waves. Not one person in this chamber would have liked to stand against him in battle. They had all fought beside him in battle at some time, but to have it pointed at you? Well that was a different matter altogether.

�Yes, we need to know what has been injected into Legolas.� Elrond was puzzled and surprised at Glorfindel�s question. He was the only one who could do this.

�Why must it be you? Estel or one of the twins can do it. You have not slept in far too long��

�Neither have you, Mellon-nin, isn�t it a little bit like the pot calling the kettle black?� Elrond could not help it, his eyes had a twinkle in them that had been missing since this whole fiasco had started.

�Kindly do not interrupt.� Glorfindel glowered at him and Elrond acquiesced with a small smile. � You have not slept in far too long, nor have you eaten properly. You have badgered the rest of us unmercifully��

�It is true, Ada, you have ordered all of us to sleep but you won�t even think of yourself.� Elrohir�s voice was sincere.

�So this is what is going to happen. You�.� Glorfindel could have growled at being interrupted once more as Elrond�s voice rose slightly to be heard over his own.

�What will happen is this�. I will go and examine this thorn and I will determine the herbs or whatever poisons they have used. I will then make the antidote and give it to Legolas. Then and only then will I sleep.� Elrond was glowering now and looked even more threatening than Glorfindel and they all shivered. At seeing that, Elrond raised his right eyebrow at them. �Does that meet with your approval?�

There were nods all around until he came back to Glorfindel. The blond Balrog-Slayer simply glowered at him before saying. �I will accept this, but only on the condition that you do rest. Legolas needs you. Trust me when I say this, Mellon-nin, I will be watching you!� With that Glorfindel turned and began to straighten the covers that lay across Legolas, indicating that the conversation was over.

�And you Mithrandir? What say you?� Elrond turned to find the twinkling blue eyes of the Maia watching him closely.

�Me? I say well done to you. This is important. But you will sleep later on.� Mithrandir�s eyes were definitely dancing merrily. Elrond could tell he would be getting his own back from all of them, that was for sure. He was not the only one who had barely slept. Still, sleep deprivation was no joking matter and as Glorfindel had so aptly put it, Legolas needed him awake and alert, not falling asleep left, right and centre. He had no wish to pass out again when Legolas needed him.

Elrond held his hands up in surrender. �I give in! I promise, with the Valar as my witness, that as soon as Legolas has taken the antidote to whatever was on that thorn, I will sleep. But it is on one condition.�

Glorfindel let out a deep sigh that seemed to rattle around the chamber. He should have known that Elrond would have something more to say about this. �And that would be�?�

�You all do the same, in shifts. We are all exhausted and at the ends of our tethers. We need to be alert and bright, not exhausted and lax, not that you are ever lax, Mellon-nin.� Elrond gave a small bow to Glorfindel.

�That is an excellent idea. Yes, we will all take turns sleeping in pairs, that way the others will be here if Legolas needs us.� Glorfindel relaxed back in his chair as the others all gave their agreement to this.

�Good, I will go and look at this thorn and see what has been administered to Legolas. I will be in Mealena�s office.� With that Elrond stood with the tweezers firmly in hand and left the chamber.

The corridors were empty and quiet compared to the seething mass they had been earlier during Legolas� crisis. He appreciated the peace and the walk gave him time to think. He was unaware of the eyes that followed him once more.

Elrond hurried down the corridor nodding to the guards that had been stationed to protect Legolas, and also to any other Elf he came across. During his walk, he was pondering who could have injected Legolas. Who was it that could have gotten close enough to him as to inject him? It was a puzzle he realised would not be solved any time soon.

Mealena was busy treating a patient when he arrived at the Healing wing, a rather young Elfling who had not dodged fast enough during a weapon training session. His wound was deep and long and needed stitches, but the Elfling would not even have a scar once it was healed. As Elrond entered, Mealena looked up with a nod and a smile before returning to the job at hand. He quickly finished and sent the Elfling on his way with an admonishment to duck properly the next time. Moving to help his fellow healer tidy up the small workspace, Elrond told him of what happened.

�Legolas is awake? That is incredibly good news.� Mealena was beaming with happiness.

�Yes he is and compos mentis (2) too. We do have another problem and I need to use your office to examine something.�

They moved off together with Elrond explaining further to Mealena all that had happened.

Dark eyes watched as they moved away. Once they were out of sight, a dark shadow-like figure left its concealment and slipped away, leaving no sign that it had been there nor what its purpose had been.

It was many hours later that Elrond had his first breakthrough on the �thorn issue� as Mealena had taken to calling it.

He had determined that the thorn had been coated with a dark resinous substance that he had never before encountered in all his years, and that was saying something!

He had to be careful while holding the tweezers that he did not scratch himself with the thorn. He did not wish to tempt fate and find out first hand what the symptoms were that the strange substance caused. Aside from all the other reasons, Legolas needed him to help the young Prince recover, as Glorfindel had so forcefully reminded him earlier.

He held the thorn up to look at it in the light once more. He was again thankful that Thranduil had followed his suggestions when this chamber had been designed. The abundant light was useful for all sorts of things. Primarily, however, Anor�s light was beneficial in speeding the healing of the Elves that were treated in these halls of healing.

The thorn seemed to shimmer in the bright light. Fascinated, Elrond moved the thorn. Yes, there it was, every time he turned the thorn it changed, almost like a chameleon, shimmering with many differing shades of purple.

With another weary sigh, Elrond moved it to a glass slide before reaching for the large, square, highly-polished piece of glass that Mealena used as a microscope. This he could manage, but he did wish that he had his own proper magnifying glass that had been made especially for him. It was larger than the one in his hand and was provided with a stand so that both his hands were free for other things. It also changed the magnifying strength if you turned it around. It was a truly ingenious design, one that Erestor had come up with, and one that he used daily when at home

Looking through the glass, with Mealena bending over with him, Elrond studied the thorn. He could find no trace of what he was seeking. The cells revealed were different than he had ever seen before and the way that it changed colour was, quite frankly, intriguing.

Elrond carried on long after Mealena had been summoned to attend to wounded warriors after a patrol had a skirmish with Wargs and Orcs. He was aware of others moving about in the chamber, but did not break his concentration to look around at them. If his assistance was needed, he knew Mealena would summon him.

One of the healers, Selend, moved with a jar of herbs in his hand to the corner nearby where the bandages were kept. No one challenged him for being in the wrong area. Elrond was busy with his back to him. Selend could not help the small grin that suddenly broke on his face. This would be easier than they had thought.

Deliberately dropping some of the herbs near the bandages, with his back to the other healers and Elrond, he bent to pick the herbs up, but before he did that, and knowing full well that these bandages were reserved for the Prince�s use only, he pulled a small item out of his robe pocket. Unfolding the parchment that held the item safely so as not to harm him, he placed the item inside the bandage. Then he gathered up the herbs and returned to his working area.

Daring a triumphant look at Elrond, he had to turn to hide his smile. This would be much better than before. They had gained a new leader since Telinia had been killed. Their new leader was not of the same inclinations as the other Elf, there would be no delicate dancing around now, no going back to beg his Ada for permission to do things. No those days were gone. Now was the time to strike and strike they would�

Elrond could not stop the yawn that escaped him. He was beyond tired but he needed to find out what this substance could be. Then he could sleep, in all probability with Glorfindel�s help, he mused. Actually he was surprised that his friend had not been down here before now to check on his progress.

He looked once more through the glass, vaguely wondering how Mealena was getting on with the injuries from the Orc attack. Thank the Valar it had not been spiders that had attacked� It was as if suddenly a light had been kindled in his mind. Of course! How could he have been so stupid? Stupid didn�t even begin to cover it.

To test his theory he reached for the glass slide one last time and placed it so that he could see it. Then he picked up a clear vial of innocuous-looking fluid. With a deft tip of the vial, a few drops fell onto the thorn. As he watched a slither of fluid ran from the thorn and over the glass. Taking a small knife he pricked his finger and let a few drops of blood drip into the clear fluid on the glass.

Wiping his finger, Elrond stood back and waited. This was the hardest part, the waiting. His finger had stopped bleeding by the time he bent back over the desk to look into the magnifying glass. It was just as he had expected it to be. He now knew just what had been given to Legolas. He could have screamed to the heavens, he was that happy. As it was, he quietly packed away the things that he had used and left the work area as he had found it.

Leaving the chamber, he walked carefully down the corridor, his attention on staying upright. Now that he had admitted that he was tired, it had hit him like a runaway horse and he could not stop yawning and blinking his eyes to try and clear them. He was also aware that he was still holding the thorn carefully. He would need it to explain to Thranduil what was happening. He wished for the hundredth time that Mealena had been free to walk with him, but one of Thranduil�s men and Legolas� friends was very ill following the Orc skirmish and he did not feel he should leave. That left Elrond alone to walk the corridor, despite that they had all previously agreed that they would not walk alone while they still did not know what was going on or who the conspirators were.

He had just reached the small corridor that led out into the main hallway and the stairs that led up to the family chambers when he became aware of someone behind him. Tired and sluggish as a consequence of his long labors caring for Legolas, Elrond tried to turn to see who it was when he caught a flash of metal and then a burning pain in his back. He tried to pull away with a gasp, but the assailant held on with a tight grip to the arm he had raised to protect himself. Elrond would never know it, but moving as he had done had deflected the knife that was meant for his heart.

Elrond began having trouble breathing and the pain was growing by the minute. He was still trying to pry the hand holding the thorn back and away from the dark cloaked figure. But it was to no avail. The tweezers and thorn were thrown across the hallway with a grace the Noldor Elf would never have believed.

Before he could do or say anything, the knife was rising again. It met with flesh once more. Elrond felt a deep burning pain and then darkness descended and took him away�

The Elf grasping him felt him go limp and let him fall to the ground in a graceless heap, not caring if it injured him more. Without another glance at the Elf behind him he moved to recover the thorn. He then left the hallway content with his work.

Behind him in the hallway, Elrond lay slumped on the floor, a bright red blossom of blood growing steadily around him. The sight would have alarmed anyone who saw it, but no one did and this hallway was very rarely used.

Elrond was alone, unconscious and bleeding heavily on the floor�