Title: Vacation
Author: Melime
E-Mail: equineluvr33@hotmail.com
Rating: PG
Summary: (The Sequel to: The Plague) Legolas's visit to Minas Tirith leads him
to guiding Eldarion on a tour across Middle Earth. All goes well until a
traitor from the past threatens the life of the young Prince of Gondor, as well
as Legolas. Aragorn is forced to make a heartbreaking decision that may very
well end in death either way.
Disclaimer: The idea and Ciro are mine, everything else belongs to Tolkien
Eldarion ran up the steps of the White Tower. A wide smile played across his face as he finally reached the top.
"Ada! Ada!"
Aragorn emerged from his study and his face lit up as he saw his son. Eldarion ran strait unto his father's arms and giggled.
"Guess what, Ada?"
Aragorn smiled and lifted his son up.
"What's that, Ion nin?"
//My Son\\
"Teacher said she's gonna tell me all about Middle Earth!"
Aragorn smiled and carried his son into the study and sat down, Eldarion on his lap.
"What about it?"
"All the other places! Like Rohan, and The Shire, and Bree, and where Naneth was from, Rivendell! That is what I want to learn about!"
Aragorn chuckled.
"What's so great about Rivendell?"
Eldarion giggled.
"You know, Ada! The elves live there! Teacher says it's the best elf city in ALL of Middle Earth!"
"I beg to differ," a voice suddenly interrupted from the doorway. Both father and son turned to face the source. Eldarion immediately leapt off his father's lap.
"Uncle Leg'las!"
Legolas smiled and bent down, eyelevel with the young prince.
"So just what makes Rivendell so much better than the other elven cities?"
Eldarion smiled and shrugged Aragorn stood up and walked over to the other two.
"Teacher didn't really tell us about the others. Did you come from Rivendell like Naneth, Uncle Leg'las?"
Both Aragorn and Legolas chuckled. Eldarion glanced between the two of them until Legolas shook his head.
"No, Tithen pen. I am from what is now called Eryn Lasgalen."
//Little One\\
Eldarion smiled excitedly.
"Teacher told us about that place! She said it use to be called..."
The child's brow creased with thought. Legolas and Aragorn both exchanged smiles.
"Mirkwood!"
Legolas nodded and Eldarion smiled with pride at having remembered. Legolas stood and glanced over at Aragorn.
"Actually... That is why I came."
Aragorn's previous smile faded and he glanced over at the elf with worry. Legolas smiled and shook his head.
"No, no. Nothing like that, mellon nín. I simply wished to go home for a few weeks. I have been gone for some time now."
Aragorn smiled and put a hand on Legolas's shoulder.
"You know you needn't ask, my friend. I agree with you."
The two friends were interrupted when Eldarion started tugging on Legolas's arm wildly.
"Uncle Leg'las! Can I come too?!"
Legolas looked to the child and shrugged, as he looked up at Aragorn.
"*That* Tithen pen, would be up to your Ada. It would be fine with me, but I don't think he will want to be away from you that long."
Eldarion looked up to Aragorn with wide, excited eyes.
"Please, Ada? Uncle Leg'las said it was okay!"
Aragorn glanced over at Legolas.
"Han aen trasta?"
//It is no trouble?\\
Legolas chucked and shook his head.
"Aniron car, Aragorn. E tha milha."
//I wish to, Aragorn. He will love it.\\
Aragorn thought for a moment and glanced down at his son. Eldarion was looking up at him with wide, hopeful eyes. The King sighed and smiled.
"All right, Ion nin"
Legolas' eyes widened as the child leapt into his arms.
"Yea! Come on, Uncle Leg'las! Come on!"
Legolas chucked and picked up Eldarion and looked over at Aragorn.
"Are you sure this is all right?"
Aragorn nodded and smiled.
"As you said, mellon nín. He will love it."
Eldarion tapped Legolas' shoulder with impatience.
"Can we go now, Uncle Leg'las?"
Legolas shook his head and the child frowned.
"Not yet, Eldarion. You still need to get ready. Besides, I'm not much up for traveling tonight. I just traveled here from Ithillien. I haven’t seen your Ada for a while either.”
Eldarion sighed and reluctantly nodded. Legolas bent down and set the child on the ground.
“You should probably go tell your Naneth.”
Eldarion smiled and nodded before he hurried out of the study and down the hall. Legolas rose and shook his head with a sigh.
“Poor child.”
Aragorn’s eyes narrowed in confusion as he glanced up at the elf.
“Why’s that?”
Legolas looked at him with a smile.
“He reminds me of you. That means I may have my hands full.”
Aragorn shook his head and was prepared to say something when Legolas cut him off.
“No, Aragorn. I didn’t mean it like that. I simply meant if he is as much trouble as you were than I will have to keep a close eye out.”
“I wasn’t THAT bad…”
Legolas raised an eyebrow as he glanced at the king, whom only grinned in response. He chuckled and shook his head.
“Do I need to mention all that you did? What about that time with the wargs in Rohan, or all your pranks you have played on Elladan, Elrohir, and me? Not to mention our paybacks. And what about your little incident in Mirkwood …”
“All right! That wasn’t my fault!”
Legolas rolled his eyes.
“Oh, it was and you know it. You know how many weeks I had to take night watch for that?”
Aragorn looked at him with faked guilty eyes.
“I told you I was sorry…”
Legolas groaned.
“Don’t even start, Aragorn. Your pity party is not going to work on me.”
The man smiled and raised an eyebrow.
“Really? I believe it has already.”
“Believe what you wish, Aragorn. Doesn’t make it true.”
Aragorn grinned and glanced over at Legolas.
“You just don’t want to admit I’m right.”
The elf sighed and nodded reluctantly.
“That too.”
The two fell to silence for a while before Aragorn finally spoke again.
“Come, mellon nín. You have traveled for a while and I am sure you are ready for a meal and some sleep.”
Legolas nodded and the two friends left the room, walking down the hall side by side.
~Chapter 2~
Legolas awoke early the next morning. He was half tempted to simply lie there until he heard others up, but he soon sat up, swinging his legs over the bed. As he looked out the balcony of his room, he could see that the sun had yet to rise. Slowly, he stood and made his way to the balcony. He slid the curtains to the side and walked out. Looking up, he could still faintly see the stars that were quickly fading as the sun began to rise. He was leaving today. Going home. He knew he could not stay as long as he had intended to now that Eldarion was coming, but it was a sacrifice he was willing to make. He could always visit his father, but Eldarion was not going to live forever. He sighed as he took one final look up before he went back inside. He quickly dressed and left his room. The halls were still empty. He smiled and shook his head before he made his way through the halls and outside of the Tower. He walked slowly to the stables. Arod was there to greet him. Legolas smiled and patted the horse's muzzle.
"We're going home today, Arod. You will love it there."
Finally deciding on something to pass the time, he entered Arod's stall with a soft brush and began grooming the horse. He always took his time when grooming Arod. Not necessarily to make him look good, but it was quality time for the two of them. He was grateful that Eomer had given Arod to him. It was a long while before he finished. For the first time, he realized there were people on the streets, already beginning a day's work. Mentally chiding himself for not paying attention, he quickly returned the brush and gave Arod a farewell pat on the neck before he made his way back into the tower. The sun was up by now, just visible on the White City. He had to admit Minas Tirith was the most beautiful place to be in the morning. The way the sun hit the stone made it seem like it was glowing.
The second he entered the door of the tower, he found himself tackled. He barely managed to catch his balance.
"Uncle Leg'las, Are you ready?"
Legolas chuckled and shook his head.
"Wait just a bit longer, tithen pen. After you have eaten something. I still have to get ready!"
"I already ate! I had Renee make me something!"
Legolas raised an eyebrow as he looked at the child.
"Just how long have you been awake?"
Eldarion smiled sheepishly and shrugged, knowing full well how long he had been up. He had watched Legolas leave the tower before he had even come out of his room though.
"Well, <b>I</B> haven't eaten yet. I'll tell you what, Eldarion. We will leave right after lunch, okay?"
Eldarion sighed with obvious disappointment but nodded slowly.
"I have an idea. Why don't you go tell all your friends where you are going so they don't worry about you when you are gone."
Eldarion's mood suddenly lightened and he nodded before bolting past Legolas and out the Tower doors. Legolas was surprised by a sudden chuckle echoing in the halls.
"You would make a good father, Legolas."
Legolas was unable to hide his surprise as he glanced at Aragorn, whom was coming out from the shadows.
"Me? I don't think so, Aragorn."
Aragorn's chuckle changed to a laugh at Legolas's reply.
"Sure you would. You don't see it, but I do."
Legolas looked at him with amusement.
"And if you say so, then it is true?"
Aragorn's eyes glittered with mirth and he nodded.
"Of course."
Legolas rolled his eyes and shook his head.
"Valar help us."
Aragorn cuffed Legolas's shoulder lightly, but chose not to reply. The two walked down the hallway in silence for a while before Legolas glanced over at Aragorn.
"Are you sure it is all right to take him? I know how much you and Arwen love him. I'm not suggesting anything will happen, but it will be a month or so before we are back."
Aragorn did not answer right away, but nodded slowly.
"Eldarion needs to see places other than Minas Tirith. I certainly can't take him, so why not his Uncle?"
Legolas shook his head and smiled.
"He reminds me so much of you, Aragorn, you wouldn't believe it."
"Not me! He's just like Arwen."
Legolas snorted. "If he is just like Arwen then I'm a Dwarf."
"Maybe he is a little like me..."
Legolas raised an eyebrow until Aragorn finally agreed.
"All right, he is exactly like I was. By the way, do you really still have to get ready?"
Legolas smiled and shook his head.
"No. I've long been packed and you know I do not eat breakfast. I figured you and Arwen would like to spend some time with him before he left."
Aragorn put a hand on Legolas's shoulder and smiled.
"Hannon le, mellon nin."
In turn, Legolas put a hand on Aragorn's shoulder and nodded. At that, Aragorn turned and followed where Eldarion had gone.
***
Shortly after noon, Eldarion was pacing impatiently. He had looked all over the tower for Legolas and couldn't find him anywhere! A sudden whinny broke his thoughts and he looked outside, finally spotting Legolas emerging from the stables. He was leading out two horses, one smaller than the other. The smaller one was a deep chestnut mare, Eldarion's horse, and the second was Arod. Eldarion knew Arod well. Though he would never admit it, whenever Legolas came for a visit, he would secretly take Arod out and ride him for a while. Both horses were saddled and ready. He smiled and quickly rushed outside.
"Are we leaving now, Uncle Leg'las?"
Eldarion's long awaited answer finally came; Legolas nodded. Excitement glittered in the child's eyes. Without waiting, he went to mount his horse, only to find himself stopped by Legolas.
"Aren't you going to say goodbye to your Ada and Naneth? I also believe you need some supplies..."
Legolas was given no time to finish. Eldarion was already long gone and in the Tower again. He was gone a long time before he came out with Aragorn and Arwen. Aragorn was carrying Eldarion's things, which they strapped to Arod's saddle. Lifting his son up, Aragorn and Eldarion hugged for a long time. Legolas had known Aragorn for a long time and it didn't take his trained eyes to see tears behind Aragorn's eyes. Then Eldarion moved to Arwen. Arwen's tears, however, did fall.
"Be careful, Ion nin. Listen to your Uncle."
Eldarion nodded eagerly.
"I will, Naneth! I promise!"
With that, Aragorn helped Eldarion up on his horse. Aragorn and Legolas both embraced in their symbol of friendship.
"Take care of him, Legolas." Aragorn said with a smile. Legolas returned the smile.
"You know I will, mellon nin. Nothing will happen to him."
Legolas mounted Arod and gave a nod to Aragorn before he started Arod down the levels. Eldarion waved to his parents before he moved his horse faster until he was right beside Legolas. Only then did he slow the pony to match Arod's pace. It was not long before they were out the gates of Minas Tirith and out of view of both Aragorn and Arwen.
~Chapter 3~
Eldarion had never been this far away from the city before, and he was loving every minute of it. Legolas smiled as he watched the child run ahead a short distance to get a better look. Legolas had no need to lead either of the two horses, for they followed obediently on their own. Eldarion ran back and grabbed Legolas's hand pulling him faster.
"Come on, Uncle Leg'las! Look! Hurry!"
As he was pulled over the hill, Eldarion pointed to the horizon. A large herd of Mearas galloped along the outskirts of Rohan's plains. Legolas smiled and looked down at Eldarion whom was nearly shaking with excitement.
"Who's horses are those? Do you think Ada would get me one?"
Legolas suppressed his grin and shook his head slowly.
"I highly doubt that, little one. Those horses are wild. Very few ever get to ride them. What is wrong with Brethil?"
Eldarion shook his head slowly.
"Nothing's wrong with her, Uncle Leg'las. But she doesn't look like the Mass."
Legolas smiled, but stopped himself from correcting Eldarion's pronunciation. Instead, he lifted the child up and carried him over to his horse.
"I think we should ride a while don't you think?"
Eldarion nodded eagerly.
"I'll race you to the trees!"
"No, no, no."
Eldarion almost started off when he was stopped by the elf.
"That is the wrong way. That way is west. We need to go north. The forest over there is Fangorn forest. I doubt your Ada would be too happy if I took you there."
Instead of a gallop, the child began Brethil at a walk. Legolas rode alongside.
"Why?"
"Well," Legolas smiled. "Your Ada didn't enjoy Fangorn very much. Neither did your Uncle Gimli."
"Are we gonna see Uncle Gimli's home?"
Legolas shook his head.
"No, not this time. He lives rather far from my home, past the Misty Mountains."
Eldarion nodded, somewhat disappointed, but he did not complain.
"How long 'till we get to Mirkwood?"
Legolas thought a moment.
"I believe we will enter the woods sometime tomorrow, but we will not reach my home for another two days if not more."
"REALLY? We're that close?"
Legolas nodded with a smile. Eldarion looked at Legolas for a moment.
"Can we run for a while, Uncle Leg'las?"
The elf could not say no. He nodded shortly and let Eldarion get ahead of him. Legolas was sure to keep Arod close by Brethil, but at the same time made sure Eldarion stayed ahead and continued 'winning'. With time Eldarion slowed Brethil down and looked back at Legolas with a wide grin.
"I won!"
Legolas grinned and nodded slowly.
"So you did."
Legolas's eyes brightened suddenly, catching Eldarion's attention. He followed Legolas's eyes to a forest line in the distance.
"Is that it?"
"It is." Legolas said softly. "Come Eldarion. The sun will set soon and we need to find a place to camp."
***
Little did Legolas know, they were not safe. The whole time, they were being followed.
<B>They thought they did away with me... Fools. But now... Now I can complete my plan. Aragorn, you have made revenge too easy. Now I can get you twice.</b>
As he came across the thought, his eyes darted between both Legolas and Eldarion. An evil smile parted his lips.
<B>What will you think when your 'best friend' returns to my side? What will you think when he kills your son?</b>
***
Legolas's hand went to his left shoulder and his brow creased. Something did not seem right. He glanced behind him and quickly scanned the terrain. He didn't see anyone... But that still did not comfort him. Something defiantly wasn't right.
"Eldarion... Why don't you ride with me for a while? You can just sleep right here."
"But why?"
Rather than tell the child the complete truth, he said a different true reason.
"I'm rather anxious to get home and if we do not stop tonight, then we can get there faster. I won't let you fall."
Eldarion nodded slowly and for the first time, Legolas noticed exactly how tired the child was. He stopped his horse and eased Eldarion over to his saddle and held him in front of him. He urged Arod forward, Brethil following alongside them. Eldarion looked sleepily up to Legolas.
"Sing me a song, Uncle Leg'las."
Legolas smiled faintly.
"Any song?"
The child nodded slowly.
"All right. I will sing you the song of Nimrodel. She was an elf maiden from Lothlorien and now a river through those lands is named after her.
An Elven-maid there was of old,
A shining star by day:
Her mantle white was hemmed with gold,
Her shoes of silver-gray.
A st…”
Only a few moments passed before Eldarion's deep, even breathing indicated he was sleeping; so Legolas fell quiet. He sighed and tightened his grip on the sleeping child to prevent him from slipping and sped Arod up. At this rate, they would be in Mirkwood when Eldarion woke up in the morning and they would be in the Halls by tomorrow night. He glanced back again, just to see a figure retreating southward on horseback. He narrowed his eyes, seeing it was an elf. Seeing an elf just outside of elven lands did not raise his suspicions any, but did not ease his tension either. Why would an elf be hurrying away so fast? He did not know, however, that it was an old enemy going off to regroup.
~Chapter 4~
Eldarion stirred as he began to awaken early the next morning. The first thing he became aware of was the fact that he was riding. But he felt strong arms around him, holding him up to keep him from falling. He didn't remember ever falling asleep. He slowly opened his eyes and gave a gasp of shock. There were trees everywhere, of every size and color. Legolas smiled as he heard the small cry.
"It's good to see you are awake, Little One. You sleep like your father."
Eldarion looked up at him wonderingly.
"How does Ada sleep?"
"He would like to sleep all day if he could. It is all ready almost time for lunch."
Eldarion looked around.
"All ready? How long 'till we get to your home, Uncle Leg'las?"
Legolas smiled eagerly.
"Only a few hours now, Eldarion."
***
Just as Legolas had said, in the matter of a few hours, they were passing into the Halls of Mirkwood. Legolas dismounted and led Eldarion and the two horses to the stables. Eldarion was looking around, wide-eyed.
"This is your home?"
Legolas nodded.
"Where else would it be? This is Mirkwood. My home."
He picked Eldarion up, carrying the boy as they continued on to the stables. They were met by another elf.
"Prince Legolas! You have returned! I will care for your horses for you, if you wish."
Legolas smiled and nodded.
"Thank you."
Normally he would do it himself, but he wished to see his father. He had not seen him for a long while. Not since after the illness that had struck Mirkwood a few years ago. He turned and started walking towards his father's throne room, when Eldarion began tugging wildly at his arm.
"Uncle Leg'las! You're a prince, too?"
Legolas looked at Eldarion before he nodded.
"Yes, I am. I thought you knew."
Eldarion shook his head.
"So your Ada is a King too? Will you ever be King? I will!"
Legolas smiled faintly and shook his head.
"No, Eldarion. I don't believe I ever will."
Eldarion looked up at him, confused.
"Why not?"
Legolas thought for a moment, trying to think of a way to explain it to the child, but he gave up.
"It is very complicated. I will explain it to you someday..."
He paused as he came to a row of steps that led to his father's throne room. Slowly, he set Eldarion down.
"Is that where your Ada is?"
Legolas nodded and looked down at Eldarion.
"Eldarion, you know how you have to act when your Ada has important visitors?"
Eldarion groaned and nodded.
"Yes... I have to stay quiet and I have to say 'Sir'."
Legolas nodded and ruffled Eldarion's hair.
"Very good. Let's try that now okay?"
Eldarion groaned again, but nodded. He followed Legolas into the chamber that was much smaller than he had expected. A large throne similar to his father's was in the center of the room and upon it sat King Thranduil. Eldarion drew closer to Legolas, for some reason feeling afraid. Legolas smiled faintly and came to a stop at the foot of the throne. Eldarion watched as Legolas bowed his head.
"I have returned, Milord."
Thranduil smiled and stood up, coming forward and placing a hand on his son's shoulder.
"It has been a long time, Legolas."
Legolas smiled faintly and nodded.
"Yes, My Lord. Six years or more. I have been aiding in the rebuilding of Gondor."
Thranduil nodded slowly, but his eyes wandered down to the small child hovering behind Legolas. Thranduil's head shot up to Legolas. The bewilderment in his father's eyes was priceless, but he dared not laugh.
"Forgive me, My Lord. This is Prince Eldarion. Son of King Elessar."
The lines in Thranduil's face relaxed as he looked down to Eldarion. The child stepped out timidly.
"Thank you for allowing me here, Sir," he said softly.
Legolas smiled, and couldn't help but notice his father did as well.
"You are always welcome here, Prince Eldarion. Your father has helped us numerous times."
Eldarion smiled, feeling more at ease now. He had mixed ideas about the Elvenking before he had come. He had heard about him before, but to three different perspectives. He had heard from both his Uncles and his father.
Thranduil looked between them for a moment before he spoke again.
"I assume the two of you would like to rest a spell. We can meet for dinner tonight."
Legolas bowed and Eldarion waved, but after catching a look from Legolas, he bowed as well. The two left the hall and were soon outside again. Eldarion looked up at Legolas.
"Uncle Leg'las, why did you call him that?"
Legolas looked at him, obviously not following what the child was saying.
"Why did you call him 'My Lord. I don't have to call my Ada that."
Legolas shrugged, not knowing exactly how to answer.
"All fathers are different, Eldarion. All have different rules. But lets not worry about that right now. How would you like to see my room? I have a surprise there for you. I was going to save it for your birthday, but I believe we can get it out now."
Eldarion nodded eagerly and ran ahead. He slowed down, however, once he remembered he did not know where he was going. Legolas smiled and led the way to his room. Luckily for Eldarion, it was not very far. The door was opened to reveal a large bedroom. Eldarion looked around in wonder. A large oaken bed was settled against the wall as was many cabinets. The room was white but seemed to have a green tint. Tiny leaflets were carved into windowsills and doorways, each tiny leaf etched with gold. It was one of the most beautiful rooms Eldarion had ever seen. He hardly even noticed when Legolas crossed the room and pulled out his gift. In fact he didn't notice until Legolas was holding it out to him. He gasped in surprise and could do nothing but stare for a moment. It was a small, black bow. Vines were carved in gold etchings creating a beautiful pattern. His mouth gaping, he slowly reached out, tracing the vines with one small finger. He looked up at Legolas in amazement.
"This... is for me?"
Legolas nodded, smiling. He knew Eldarion liked it.
"This isn't all, Eldarion. Here."
The child took the bow, holding it as if he held on too tight, it would break. He rotated it slowly between his hands. It was incredibly light and just his size. Legolas soon returned with a small quiver. Eldarion's eyes widened and he slowly took that as well. He looked up at Legolas, his smile extremely bright.
"Thank you so much, Uncle Leg'las!"
Legolas nodded slowly and stood up again. He turned and began to walk towards his bed, but paused. He looked back to Eldarion with a grin.
"What do you say we test it out? First thing tomorrow morning?"
~Chapter 5~
Eldarion groaned in frustration as he missed the target again. Legolas tried to hide his smile at the child's determined scowl.
"You were closer that time. Try again."
"I tried a hundred times already!"
Legolas chuckled and knelt down, covering Eldarion's hands with his own and setting it to a better position.
"Try holding the arrow right in the middle and line the arrow tip right where you want to shoot."
Legolas let go of the bow and Eldarion held it steady. Carefully, the child drew out another arrow and held it to the string. He drew it back. Eldarion bit his lip as he aimed carefully and released the arrow. This time, it was followed by a soft thud as it hit the target. Eldarion let out a joyous squeal.
"I did it! I did it!"
Legolas smiled and nodded.
"Of course you did! You're a natural."
***
Days turned to weeks in almost the blink of an eye. Legolas knew it was time he should be heading back to Gondor. Now, Eldarion was hitting the target every time and was very proud about it at that. Legolas could tell Eldarion was beginning to get homesick. Just little hints that he easily picked up on. One night, both Legolas and Eldarion were sitting out on a large balcony, looking over the stars that were barely visible through the dense trees. Legolas was sitting in a large chair, his feet kicked up on the railing.
"Uncle Leg'las? When can we go home?"
Legolas smiled faintly and looked over at the child.
"I was wondering when you would ask. I planned on leaving in the morning."
Eldarion smiled and looked back over the trees.
"Do you like Mirkwood better than Gondor, Uncle Leg'las?"
Legolas did not answer right away. He sighed.
"Well, Eldarion. That is a difficult question. I do, but I don't. Mirkwood will always be my true home, but Gondor is my home as well. I do not favor either. Why do you ask?"
"I don't know. You seem happier here. Except for when you are with Ada."
Legolas smiled faintly and shook his head.
"No need to wonder that now, Little One. We are leaving early tomorrow so you need to get to bed."
"Aw..."
"None of that. Go on."
Eldarion reluctantly stood and began to walk inside but stopped suddenly. The child waved to someone behind Legolas. In confusion, Legolas turned to see who it was. His eyes widened in shock, but before he could react, a blade was placed against his neck.
"Well, well, well, Legolas. Long time no see."
Legolas eyed the blade before he looked to the figure. His eyes were narrowed coldly and he looked back into the other elf's eyes fearlessly.
"Ciro."
Ciro smiled and nodded once.
"So you remember me."
Legolas glanced to Eldarion, trying to signal for him to run but two men suddenly leapt from the room and grabbed the child. A hand was clasped over his mouth to keep him from calling out. Ciro nudged the blade against Legolas's chin, indicating him to rise, which he did.
"You said it yourself, Legolas. Time to go back to Gondor."
***
Legolas trudged along behind Eldarion. His weapons had long been taken from him. All except his dagger that remained hidden on his belt. They were almost at Gondor. He knew what was going to happen as well. A heart wrenching choice for Aragorn. One that Legolas would answer for him in a heartbeat. Ciro already stated his plan. Aragorn would be allowed to save either Legolas or Eldarion. Legolas would make sure it was Eldarion. They were walking rather slowly, Ciro walking beside them. He trusted no one save himself to watch the captives. Legolas slowly reached to the hilt of his dagger. Now was his chance. He dove forward suddenly, driving the dagger deep into Ciro's abdomen. Ciro hunched forward, but Legolas soon found he was as well. Pain exploded across his abdomen as well. Blood began to spill from an unknown cause. He felt Ciro's eyes turn to him angrily, but they lightened at the sight and he chuckled.
"Ah... I see you have found out. I'm surprised you did not know beforehand. You are not healed, Legolas. Healed from the Nazgul's magic, yes, but not from mine."
Legolas stood upright, keeping his hand on the wound. Eldarion was watching with wide eyes.
"My pain is your pain. If I die, you die."
Ciro's smile widened as he held a hand over his wound. It healed suddenly, though Legolas's remained.
"A wonderful little trick don't you think?"
Legolas glared at him, but did not reply. He turned and began walking again. Eldarion followed numbly, trying to figure out what was going on. He could tell this elf didn't like Legolas, but why? What was going to happen to them? He glanced behind him, looking at his bow that was still strapped to his back. They allowed him to keep it. He smiled faintly to himself. The men had thought it was a toy. He could make his Uncle proud and hit his target this time. He would just have to wait until the perfect time. He knew he could do it. Then, once he got home, he could tell his Ada all about it. His Ada would be proud of him too, he just knew it. Now, he could hardly wait until they got back to Gondor.
~Chapter 6~
Minas Tirith. It was now in view. Legolas sighed, deep in thought. Aragorn would choose Eldarion without a doubt, and Legolas wouldn't have it any other way, but to get away himself... How could he do it? He could not harm Ciro for he would harm himself in the process...
But maybe that was the point...
If he got hurt when Ciro got hurt, wouldn't it work the same the other way around?
Not that it mattered. He didn't have any weapons. He sighed. So Ciro won. Just like he almost did last time. What would happen now? His thoughts were broken as a dagger was placed between his shoulder blades. They were at the gates.
"Tell them to open the gates." Ciro whispered harshly.
"Open the gates." Legolas said, only loud enough for the guards to hear. They did, recognizing him immediately. The slowly began heading upward into Minas Tirith, heading towards the Citadel.
"Make anyone suspicious and I will kill you right here, along with Eldarion." Ciro warned.
"Let Eldarion ride ahead." Legolas hissed. "You know Aragorn will chose to save him, why waste your time? Kill me now and get it over with."
Ciro chuckled, looking at Legolas with a smile.
"You don't get it do you, Child? I am doing this to get back at Aragorn as well. My first plan would have worked if it weren’t for him. I think he will enjoy seeing you die. Right before his eyes."
Legolas sighed, shaking his head.
"As much as you seem to be enjoying this, Ciro, I don't feel I see the point."
"The point is, our choices can come back to haunt us. Sometimes, we just need to let things go. Stay out of things that are our business. Aragorn needs to learn that lesson, as do you. But sadly, you will never have a chance to put it to use."
"Then why teach me?"
"Ah... Good question... Merely for the matter of knowing. At least you will have known it, if only for a few seconds."
Legolas shook his head.
"I don't see why you're doing this, Ciro. Why are you so intent on killing me?"
"You still don't know? You're slower than I thought. I want Mirkwood of course."
"My father would never hand it over to the likes of you!"
"I know. That is why I have to kill him to. Right after I 'return' you to him. Tell him who killed you. It's a pity really. I thought Aragorn was your best friend..."
"My father would never believe you!"
"I will make him. I have my ways."
Legolas did not reply. This could not be happening. He pulled his horse to a halt just outside of the doors of the Citadel. One of the guards looked at Eldarion and smiled.
"Bring a few friends with you, Prince Eldarion?" Eldarion glanced at Legolas whom gave a very slight nod. Eldarion, in turn, nodded himself. The guard smiled and opened the doors.
"King Elessar. Your son returns."
The two men with Ciro helped Eldarion dismount and walked closely behind him as they entered the Citadel. Legolas, too, followed them, Ciro right behind him with the dagger in his back. A simple reminder of what would happen should he try anything. One of the men behind Eldarion fell back, walking beside Legolas, just in case. Aragorn stood, smiling, but his smile quickly faded at the sight of Ciro. Seeing this, the man beside Eldarion pulled out a dagger, holding it to Eldarion's neck. Ciro, too, moved his dagger to Legolas's neck. The second man drew a sword, holding it ready. Ciro smiled. The guards immediately lifted their weapons and began to advance.
"The guards!" The man holding Eldarion back shouted. "Tell the guards to leave!"
Aragorn stammered a moment, wondering what to do, but he knew he was at a disadvantage. He inhaled sharply and held up a hand to the guards, whom had no choice but to pause at his order.
"Leave." He said softly.
The guards looked at each other before looking up at Aragorn again, not moving.
"Get Out!" Aragorn said again, much louder and annunciating each word. They turned and backed off outside the doors. Ciro's smile widened and he pressed the blade into Legolas's throat a little stronger. The man holding Eldarion did the same, earning a frightened whimper from the child.
"Hello, Aragorn."
"What are you doing here, Ciro?"
Ciro chuckled and shook his head.
"You don't know? I am here to help you! I plan on ridding you of one of these fellows here. Tell me. Which one do you want to live?"
Aragorn mouth opened, but no words came. How could this decision be pinned upon him? He shook his head slowly.
"What is it you really want, Ciro? Name it."
Ciro chuckled.
"Nothing you can give to me, 'King'."
"Name it!"
"You get me Mirkwood, you can get them both. I believe that is a fair trade."
Aragorn looked at Eldarion, then to Legolas again. He knew that was not an option. For one, Ciro was right. It was nothing he could give away, and for another, Legolas would kill him.
"Make your choice, King! Your son? Or your friend?"
"I-" Aragorn stuttered, looking hard at Ciro whom was obviously enjoying this.
"I choose..."
~Chapter 7~
Aragorn paused yet again. How could he betray Legolas? Ciro was growing frustrated at the constant stuttering. He glanced over at the guard holding Eldarion and gave a very slight nod. Both Ciro and the guard placed the blade even deeper into their captive's neck. Eldarion's eyes began to tear up as a thin line of blood began to drip from the growing cut on his neck. Legolas did not react, but stared defiantly ahead as his own blood began to drip as well. Aragorn shook his head quickly.
"Stop! Please... Legolas, please forgive me... Eldarion. I choice Eldarion."
Almost immediately, the knife was pulled away from the child and he was tossed to the ground. He leapt up and raced to his father's side, clutching his leg. Aragorn wrapped an arm around his son, but his eyes were locked on Legolas whom nodded, smiling faintly as he glanced at Aragorn.
"Ú-moe edaved, mellon nin."
/There is nothing to forgive, my friend.\
Aragorn swallowed stiffly and stood again, looking back at the grinning Ciro.
"I should have known. Family over friends. And a true friend at that. Which is exactly why he shall suffer. Suffer knowing that it was truly you that killed him. Your word."
Ciro lessened the pressure on the knife blade and with a quick motion, savagely kicked the back of Legolas's legs, dropping him to his knees. Ciro grinned and gripped Legolas's hair with his free hand, forcing him to look up.
"You have no idea how long I have wanted to do this. I tried once, but this time I will not fail. You will die as the Valar intended."
"The slaying of elf by elf was never intended and never will be!" Legolas hissed back at Ciro. Ciro only shrugged and smiled.
"Intended or not, that is what is going to happen, Legolas. This is your fate now. Death. By my hand. But do not worry. It won't be quick. You have plenty of time... to suffer. Stand up."
Aragorn could not watch this any more. He took quick steps forward, but his advancing was seen almost before he even took a step. Ciro's back up men immediately stepped forward.
"Aragorn, stop!"
Legolas's voice suddenly stopped the King as he turned in surprise to his friend; standing up as he spoke.
"This is no longer your affair. This is between Ciro and I."
"And besides..." Ciro spoke suddenly.
"You wouldn't want your dear son dead as well. One more step forward and he will be."
Aragorn turned, only to see one of the men equipped with a cross bow, the arrow pointed directly at Eldarion. Aragorn swallowed and slowly backed up at his son's side once again. Ciro turned his attention to Legolas once again.
"How shall I kill you, hm? Neck, maybe? Chest?" With each suggestion, he ran the blade across the suggested death. Legolas made no reaction. This made Ciro furious.
"You think you are being brave, Dear Prince. You think you are being the hero. Ah, Prince Legolas saves the day!" He said mockingly. "Sacrifices himself to save the Prince of Gondor. What an honor, indeed. You are nothing, Legolas. You have nothing yourself so you worry about that which is not yours. A close family you never had. I know. I've seen your family. I've watched you grow up. You think you could teach that little runt of some ragtag ranger anything? That bow you gave him is completely hysterical, Legolas. I didn't even think you were capable of being so stupid. Like that," as he spoke he pointed a finger at Eldarion, "could ever learn how to fire a bow. He couldn't hit-"
Ciro's sentence suddenly cut off and he gagged. In shock and surprise, he glanced down to see a golden arrow sprouting from his chest. He looked up, only to see Eldarion, holding the assumed toy bow, with a glowering expression on his face. But to the surprise of both Eldarion and Aragorn, Ciro actually smiled.
"You fool. Now his death truly is on your hands."
Aragorn ignored his words, not understanding, but watching him; waiting for him to die, as he deserved to do. Ciro's face was paling, his eyes dulling, but even so, Aragorn never got the pleasure of watching him die. Ciro yanked the 'fatal' arrow from his chest and the bleeding wound immediately vanished.
"Goodbye, King of Gondor."
In a bright flash, he was gone, almost as if he had never been there at all. Aragorn smiled and Eldarion did as well.
"Uncle Leg'las! I did it! I got him!"
Aragorn turned to Legolas; only to see his friend clutching his bleeding chest and his face deathly pale and his eyes already dull. The elf opened his mouth to say something, but the full words never came.
"Ar-. A-"
He dropped listlessly to his knees as Aragorn rushed and caught the limp elf just before he fell over completely.
~Chapter 8~
"Eldarion! Get the guards! Quickly!"
The child paused, frozen in shock. Why was Legolas bleeding? Did he really miss and hit Legolas? He didn't understand.
"Eldarion! Now!"
His thoughts were broken by his father's pleading cry. The child nodded and leapt from the stairs of the throne and raced out the doors.
"Legolas..." Aragorn exhaled softly. The elf was shivering and barely awake in his arms. Legolas blinked fiercely to remain awake.
"Legolas, what happened?"
The elf swallowed stiffly and struggled to reply and even when he did, Aragorn could hardly understand. Legolas's voice came in between coughs and very weak.
"Ci-ro..."
He said something after that, something that Aragorn could not understand. The King could hear the guards hurrying in; their footsteps echoed in the halls as they grew closer.
"We a- one. Sp-"
Aragorn hushed him. It was no use to have Legolas waste energy when he couldn't understand what he was saying anyway. Aragorn tore away at Legolas's tunic, revealing the arrow wound. It made no sense. Eldarion had hit Ciro, not Legolas. He shook his head placing his hand on the wound to slow the bleeding. Even for an elf, it was dangerously close to his heart. Way to close for comfort. Legolas was fading. Aragorn could see it as plain as day. Surely a simple arrow would never take Legolas down! There had to be something else as well! He couldn't die. The guards, along with many of the Citadel's healers, burst in the room. Just as Legolas stopped breathing...
***
King he may be, but even so, the healers did not allow him to be with Legolas that night. They insisted to be left alone with him. But that did not mean Aragorn was calm. He was pacing restlessly in his study with Arwen trying in vain to calm him.
"He will be fine, Aragorn. Trust the healers. They know what they are doing."
Aragorn shook his head dimly but paused a moment, glancing over at his love.
"You don't understand, Arwen. You couldn't. He was dying in my arms. He actually stopped breathing!"
"But-" Arwen broke in, "He began again. Is that not proof enough he will fight?"
"It is a fight he is losing! A battle I cannot aid him in! I am the king! Why do the healers defy me?"
Arwen stood and walked over to Aragorn, taking his hands in hers.
"They are doing all they can, meleth nin. And it is best you are out here. With the condition Legolas is in it would be best if you let the healers do their job."
"So you admit, yourself, that he is not doing well at all." Aragorn's voice was beginning to lower. Arwen was finally beginning to succeed.
"In all honestly, Aragorn, I would be lying if I said he was. There is no change in his condition."
Aragorn groaned and pulled away from her grasp, starting up with his pacing again.
"That means he is no better."
Arwen shook her head. "It also means," she said softly, "that he is no worse."
Aragorn sighed, stopped, and reluctantly nodded.
"But-"
"You forget you are not the only one that cares for him, Aragorn." Arwen said softly, growing slightly frustrated.
"Think of how close he was with Gimli. Think of Gandalf! Of Thranduil! You forget how close we were."
Aragorn looked over at Arwen, for the first time noticing the tears welling in her eyes as they finally began to fall. He wrapped his arms around her as she lowered her head into his chest sobbing openly now.
"M'Lord?"
Both Aragorn and Arwen, mid-sob, quickly turned to the healer in the doorway. The healer's face was solemn and grave and he gave a bow as Aragorn turned to him.
"Well?" Aragorn said impatiently, and obviously already assuming what was going to be said by the healer's expression. But he would not believe it until he saw it for himself. He couldn't even imagine Legolas dead. It just didn't sound right. He was supposed to be immortal! "What news?" Aragorn could hear Arwen swallow from his side. Her tears continued to fall, but she desired the news more than any other type of comfort.
The healer bowed again before answering.
"He lives." He did not add just barely, for he did not have the heart. How could he break the obvious relief that had just crept over the faces of the King and the Queen? Even so, he would have to tell more.
"But-"
The relief disappeared from their faces in an instant. It had taken only one tiny three-letter word to leave them hanging on a thread between despair and joy.
"But what?!"
The healer quickly apologized before going on.
"But there seems to be something else wrong as well. More than the arrow wound..."
"Besides the fact he was never hit by an arrow?"
The healer turned to him in surprise.
"What?"
"It is difficult to explain..." Aragorn said softly. "The arrow struck another, but the harm came to Legolas..."
The healer listened for no more. He bolted from the doorway and raced down the hall, ignoring Aragorn's calls to wait. He had just learned a valuable piece of information that might just save the Prince of Mirkwood's life.
***
Well through the rest of that night, there was no new news of Legolas. Aragorn would move from his study to just outside the door of Legolas's room in the Healing Houses, trying to listen in on the healer's conversations in vain. All he would be able to hear was the level in which they spoke and their movements. Too bad Legolas wasn't there to listen for him, but if he were there, he wouldn't have to be spying in on the healers. He sighed and walked away and entered his study again. The first thing he noticed was he was not alone. The second thing he noticed was that it was, in fact, Eldarion that was in the room with him and he was crying. He momentarily put away his thoughts of Legolas and turned towards comforting his son.
"Eldarion? What's the matter?"
"It's all my fault!" he said between sobs. Aragorn quickly embraced him into a hug.
"What is your fault, ion nin?"
"Legolas is dying because of me!"
"Of course not! That is not your fault at all!"
Eldarion sniffed and shook his head.
"I shot him!"
Aragorn quickly shook his head.
"No! No, you didn't. It is because of some foul craft of Ciro that he is injured now. And he will not die. Don't worry, child. None of this is your fault. L-"
"M'LORD!"
A flustered healer burst into the doorway, not bothering to bow. Even without worrying about breaking up the conversation of the father and son.
"He is awake!"
Aragorn stood quickly, glancing down at Eldarion. The child's tears had stopped and he was glancing at the healer hopefully. The healer was smiling back at Aragorn.
"He wishes to speak with you."
"Should-" Aragorn began before glancing down and Eldarion then looking back at the healer. The healer pursed his lips and sighed.
"I would advise against it, M'Lord."
Aragorn sighed and thought a moment before glancing down at Eldarion.
"Wait here. I will check on Legolas and see if he is up to seeing you."
Eldarion nodded slowly and watched as Aragorn followed the healer out to the healing houses. Once he disappeared down the hallway, Eldarion stood up and followed quietly.
***
Aragorn entered the room slowly. The sight of Legolas caused him slight relief. Especially when Legolas looked over at him and smiled faintly. Proof enough that he was all right. Legolas chuckled, wincing slightly as he did so, but trying to conceal it.
"Busy night, mellon nin? You look tired."
Aragorn raised his eyebrows and could not help but chuckle.
"Tired is one word for it. But I believe your night was far more busy than mine."
Legolas shook his head, pursing his lips.
"No, not really. From what I hear, I slept the entire time."
Aragorn glanced over at one of the healers whom rolled his eyes at Legolas's comment and Aragorn grinned.
"Mostly because they forced me to drink the most awful stuff."
"For the best, mellon. For the best."
Legolas scoffed.
"I'll be fine, Aragorn. Tell them to let me up."
Aragorn chuckled again.
"Like they listen to me. I may be their King, but they still order me around."
Aragorn stood. He knew Legolas needed to rest, but he wasn't going to do so on his own. This is how it always was. And he would never admit it aloud, but he was the same way. He hated being stuck in bed as much as Legolas did. Slowly he walked out of Legolas's view and got a pitcher of water, carefully adding a bit of his own herbs to it. Tasteless and extremely helpful. Legolas would be out in a good healing sleep in a matter of minutes. He carried the pitcher over to Legolas and poured it into a cup, holding it out to Legolas. The elf looked at him suspiciously and shook his head in a stubborn way.
"Don't think I'm going to fall for that, Estel. I'm an Elf. I can heal well enough without taking your little invented mixtures that will knock me out."
Aragorn raised his eyebrows innocently.
"I don't know what you’re talking about. It's just water."
"Liar" Legolas said with a smile.
Aragorn's brows rose further and he shrugged before taking a drink of the cup that he held. He held up a hand as no effect came upon him. Then he held the cup out to Legolas. The elf took it slowly and took a long drink, downing the cup in a matter of seconds. He wouldn't have admitted it, but he was thirsty. The second the cup parted from Legolas's lips, Aragorn took it again and spit the liquid from his mouth into the cup. Legolas looked at him in obvious surprise before his eyes narrowed as he caught on.
"That was a bit below the belt don't you think?"
Aragorn shrugged and grinned impishly.
"It worked, though, didn't it?"
"I won't," Legolas yawned mid-sentence, "forget this, Aragorn. I'll get you back."
Aragorn chuckled and shook his head as Legolas finally lost the battle to stay awake. At just that moment, Eldarion came in.
"Is he dead?"
Aragorn turned in surprise.
"No! Of course not! He is resting only. Everything will be all right, don't worry."
Eldarion nodded slowly before he turned away and walked off. Aragorn sighed, his smile fading as he began to think of just why Legolas was there. Ciro. And he wished more than anything that what he had told his son was true. If only everything was that easy. He had a feeling that they would be hearing from Ciro again. When, was the question.
THE END