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Part 2/?

~~A Year After Last Chapter, Mirkwood~~

"My Lord?"

Thranduil looked up to see the golden figure of Legolas standing in the doorway of the study. He sat back in his chair and indicated for Legolas to enter.

"You needn't be so formal with me Legolas. What is it you wish?"

Thranduil couldn't help but notice the similarities between the young Elf sitting before him and his memories of the child's mother. The same soft features, though obviously masculine, the same lithe figure, and the same clear eyes. Though the child had the same bright golden hair of his sire.

"I wish leave to go to Imladris. It is the year Lord Glorfindel specified for me to join him within Master Elrond's realm."

Thranduil flinched, he had tried to push the ever present thought from his mind. Legolas' eyes were downcast, focusing on an apparently very important spot on the crimson carpet on the floor. Thranduil stood, walking over to Legolas and drawing him up into an embrace.

"Dear Greenleaf, you know I loved you as my own. Visit as often as your sire allows it Legolas."

The young Elf smiled and returned the hug. "I will, as often as I may."

Thranduil smiled sadly, "Juorney swiftly Legolas."

A small nod was his answer and Legolas left the study. The King of Mirkwood fell back to his seat. His son, no, he could never again consider the beautiful creature that had just left his son. His wifed had died for her love of another, birthing her only child before confessing her infidelity to her husband. The child's sire was there at the birth, shame-faced and teary-eyed. It had not taken long for Thranduil to negotiate with the sire. He would name and care for the child until it was three years from the age of majority among Elves.

After a century and a half, it was time for Legolas to leave the forest and join his sire's side in Rivendell.

//He should remain by your side...// a voice whispered in Thranduil's mind. //He is yours.//

Thranduil shook his head, clearing it effectively. Glancing out the window, he had a clear view of the main path. It was only a few minutes before he saw the golden figure ride onto the path, taking a last long look at his former home before riding off.

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Short, I know. But I'm just building up the situations right now.

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Part 3/?

Aragorn ran lightly down the front steps of the Last Homely House, using all practiced adopted Elven grace he had learned throughout the years. Arwen was already on her way to Lothlorien to be with her grandmother for the remainder of the short time they would have together. Unless he claimed his right to Gondor, Arwen Undomiel would sail West to join her mother.

It was just starting to rain in the valley, perhaps a sign of the coming winter. Elladan and Elrohir would be returning soon, to speak with their father and foster brother about the situations further North. The Man Boromir had sent a letter ahead with Gandalf to say that he would like to visit again. Really it was from the Man's ailing father, but Aragorn had only found that out after he read it for himself. The Boromir he knew never actually said 'please' and 'by your leave' in the same sentence unless he wanted something really badly.

The Ranger smiled at the thought of his friend. Soon, the Elf Legolas would be showing up as well. Aragorn had met Legolas a few times already; trying to coax the Elf into a few games or random acts of mischief, usually against Elladan or Elrohir, but never completely succeeding. He had talked with Elrond about the visit already, pleased to learn that Legolas had arranged to stay indeffinately. It had been nearly six months since he brought the creature Gollum to the Mirkwood Elves then left to Bree. It was good to be home.

Though he was already nearing seventy, the blood of Numenor in his veins made it seem like he was twenty years younger. He had ust returned to Imladris from Bree with the four little Hobbits. Frodo was mending well enough, perhaps now Sam and Bilbo would relax a little.

"Estel!"

The Man turned to see his two foster brothers running to catch up to him. Elladan slung an arm around his shoulder, laughing. "You must be the only Man in all of Middle-earth that is near impossible to find."

Elrohir grinned, "The Elves from Mirkwood have arrived. A little late, but better than never."

Aragorn perked up, ignoring the fact that he was supposed to be the respectable one among the three. "Have you seen Legolas yet?"

Elladan laughed again, "One could get the impression that you prefer the little prince over our sister."

"We have seen him," Elrohir answered. "Though Glorfindel led him off to talk about something. It seems our friend has gotten himself into trouble without even being here an hour!"

Aragorn laughed, "Wait until he sees the Dwarven envoy. Let's hope he is more civil than his father."

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"I was beginning to wonder if you were even coming."

Legolas looked down, trying to look anywhere but at the ancient Elf by his side. Glorfindel sighed and faced Legolas, tilting his head up and meeting the sapphire eyes.

"Listen to me Legolas; I know it really doesn't seem like it, but I am your sire. You are not required to stay here by any stretch, if you wish to return to Mirkwood, you have leave to. What happened that long ago resulted in the death of a beautiful women in both temperment and form, but brought an equally beautiful figure into the lives of two others. To everyone but myself and Elrond, you are here to represent Thranduil at the Council."

"And to you?"

Glorfindel met the young eyes, "I wish to know my son. My responsibilities here have prevented many visits to the forest, but I still wish to know you; not as just a friend, but as my son."

Legolas looked away, "I must rest. The journey has been long and I must join the Council tomorrow."

Glorfindel nodded and released the young Elf. He watched as Legolas left to venture to his rooms for the evening. The Hall of Fire would be filled with the residents and guests tonight, but Glorfindel would find no warmth there as he watched the only reminder of the woman he had loved, and inadvertantly killed, leave quickly.

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Lots of thought brought this to be a remake of the Quest. The dark figure will be explained there, and I have a few of the original ideas Tolkien had stuck in my mind. You'll know what happened to Faramir soon.

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Part 4/?

"The more people I meet, the more I like animals." -Mark Twain

Betcha can't guess the pairing for this one.
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Legolas tried not to fidget in his seat as the Council began. He would need to report Gollum's escape soon, though he hoped it could wait until some good news was given.

"Bring forth the Ring Frodo."

Or maybe it would be the good news.

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"You are not going."

Legolas looked up to face Glorfindel squarely. "And why not? It is my decision."

"It's not yours to make when you haven't even reached your majority yet."

"You said yourself that I was not required to stay here."

Glorfindel narrowed his eyes, "I deffinately did not mean that you could go off and volunteer for something like this!"

"And what do you expect me to do?" Legolas demanded. "Sit here and wait until news reaches us? Telling us whether or not we will all be enslaved by Sauron?"

"I would prefer that to you putting yourself in such danger. I'm your fath-"

"Since when?!" Legolas cut off Glorfindel's sentence. He was starting to pace the width if the hallway and was just thankful that most of Rivendell's inhabitants and guests were in the Hall of Fire. "You have never been there. Thranduil has. He is my father, you are my sire. There is a difference. My *father* would let me go with the Ringbearer, unless there was objection from Lord Elrond or from Mithrandir. My *father* would have confidence in my skill as an archer. My *father* would want me to see what I can of Middle-earth, especially if there's a chance that we may need to run from Sauron's power one day."

Glorfindel slapped Legolas, instantly regretting it as the young Elf staggered from the force of the blow. Legolas touched his already bruising cheek gingerly before bolting down the hall blindly, his only thoughts were to get away from Glorfindel.

He didn't see the Man in front of him as he ran. Legolas hit the stranger hard, sending them both to the marble floors. Disoriented, Legolas started as a hand appeared in front of him. Clear blue eyes met a pair of russet-brown ones.

"Are you alright?" the Man asked. Legolas accepted the hand and the Man easily pulled him to his feet.

Legolas nodded, "I'm fine. I'm sorry, I should have been looking where I was going."

The Man waved a hand flippantly, "No harm done. Are you sure you're okay?"

Legolas shied away from the Man's hand as the mortal tried to see the still forming bruise. The Man got the idea and let his hand fall back to his side.

"I am called Boromir," the Man introduced himself with a slight bow of his head. Legolas bowed in return.

"I am Legolas Greenleaf, of Mirkwood."

Boromir nodded, "You were at the Council, were you not? A seat away from the Dwarves?"

Legolas was surprised the Man remembered, "Yes. You sat a seat or two away from Aragorn, correct? You spoke of a dream your brother had."

"And you reported the escape of Gollum."

Legolas nodded sheepishly, of course, not proud of the news Thranduil sent along to Imladris with him. "Aye."

Boromir smiled slightly, "So, what does a lone Elf do while wandering the halls and not crashing into guests?"

Legolas blushed at Boromir's teasing, but smiled none the less. "Try to avoid silly Men that put themselves in the paths of others."

Boromir laughed, causing Legolas to smile more, pleased that he had lightened the mood. The Man nodded towards a door that Legolas recognized as the one leading to the Hall of Fire. "Do you wish to join the festivities, Legolas?"

The Elf shook his head, blonde hair falling to rest on his shoulders. "Nay. I would rather not for now."

The Man nodded, "And here I thought that all Elves loved poetry, song, and would take any excuse to enjoy a feast."

Legolas swatted his arm playfully, "And here I was certain that a Man would be the first to challenge a Dwarf in a contest to see how many ales the other could drink."

Boromir grinned, "True, but I am no ordinary Man."

"Oh?" Legolas asked as they continued to walk now.

"Indeed. You see, where as Aragorn is a Ranger of the North, I am one of the South. We are...more restrained than most other Men."

Legolas laughed lightly, "And what proof do you have for that?"

Boromir smiled, "Well, to be honest, I have none. But I have volunteered my sword to the Ringbearer, and, as I understand, you have offered your bow; perhaps I may prove myself on the journey?"

"Perhaps your honesty is enough to set you apart. Yet, I am no longer certain if I will be joining the quest. There have been...objections to my leaving."

Boromir frowned, "Have these objections anything to do with that bruise? Or why you were running?"

Legolas sighed, "Yes, but I would rather not speak of it now."

The Man nodded, "As you wish. How is it that you know Aragorn?"

The Elf shrugged, "I met him when visiting Imladris a while ago, and he later came to Mirkwood. We have been friends for quite a while. How is it that you came by him?"

"Much the same way," Boromir responded. "I was visiting the Rangers of the North with Gandalf a year or so ago. I met him, though I have only known him as Estel, or Thorongil, or Strider. Never have I thought him to be Isildur's heir. We were friends since he first defeated me in a sparring match, he is quite the warrior."

A smile graced Legolas' lips once more. "We became friends through sparring as well. Though I will continue to maintain that he only bested me because I do not prefer to use a sword, or even my knives."

"And what is your true opinion?"

Legolas blushed and looked away, but still smiled. "He is the better warrior. But you must *never* tell him I said that."

Boromir chuckled, "As long as you do not tell him that I admited my defeat to him."

Legolas grinned, he liked this Man. Boromir seemed brotherly, kind-hearted though an obvious weight was settled on his heart. "What troubles you so, Boromir?"

"Legolas."

The two looked up from where they were now leaning against one of the railings in an open hallway, both unaware that they had even stopped. Elrond stood at the end of the corridor, beconing Legolas with only his stature and eyes. Boromir patted a hand on Legolas' shoulder.

"Perhaps I'll tell you of it later, little Elf. So long as you promise to tell me of your own troubles."

Legolas frowned, "I cannot."

Boromir shrugged but smiled as he backed away a few steps before turning, "Then my troubles shall remain my own as well."

Legolas smiled and shook his head at the retreating Man. Sighing, he made his way over to Elrond. The Master of Imladris frowned as he saw the darkened skin on the younger Elf's cheek.

"Come to the Healing Rooms, I'll see what I can do. Aragorn is there with one of the little Hobbits, he wishes to speak with you."

"I know," Legolas said softly.

"You've been avoiding him."

It wasn't a question. A simple statement that Legolas could not deny.

Elrond raised an eyebrow, "He has missed you during his time in the Wild. You are the Elf closest to his age that he knows."

"I know, Lord Elrond. I think of him as my brother. I do not mean to avoid him."

Elrond nodded, not pressing it further. "The Hobbit, 'Pippin' Took I believe, has seemed to have eaten too much at the feast. Poor Bilbo was so upset that Gandalf had to find a way to keep him from hovering over the young Hobbit's side while Argorn tried to find out what was wrong. I have yet to see who has the worst task; Aragorn for listening to Pippin's complaints, or Gandalf for listening to Bilbo's."

Legolas smiled at Elrond's chuckle. He had barely met the little Shirefolk, but he already loved them. Frodo was a brave lad for coming so far and offering to go further. Loyal Sam was undoubtedly still standing guard by his master. Meriadoc and Peregrin seemed to be the most lively, preforming their favourite songs for the Elves. Bilbo was an astonishing creature, harbouring no resentment towards the incident in Mirkwood, settling for teasing Legolas on his visits or mentioning how he managed to avoid capture by the Elves a little louder everytime Legolas walked by him. Yes, Legolas was glad that he at least had the oppertunity to meet the Hobbits, though he would have preferred to do so under better circumstances.

"I have spoken to Glorfindel," Elrond's voice broke Legolas from his thoughts. They were standing outside of the door to the infirmary, the emblem of Elbereth watching over those that entered.

"He says that at the end of two months, when the Ringbearer wishes to leave, if you still wish to go, he will not object."

Legolas nodded. A thought struck him, "Why in two months?"

Elrond smiled as he opened the door, "Frodo wishes to wait until Bilbo's birthday. And we need to ensure that the paths are clear, it will take at least one month to send word to Lothlorien to report the news of the Council. Lady Galadriel was unable to attend this time, as was Lord Celeborn; as you have noticed."

Elrond laid a hand on Legolas' shoulder, "Glorfindel does care for you Legolas. Give him a chance, as well as time."

Legolas set his jaw, "He will never be my father."

Elrond sighed and opened the door fully. Legolas smiled at Aragorn as the Man brightened upon seeing his friend. Pippin was happily chatting away as he sat on one of the beds, apparently fully recovered from his upset stomach.

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Pippin looked up excitedly, "Master Elrond! And who is this friend of yours? He looks young, and awfully pretty."

Legolas blushed and Aragorn tapped Pippin's arm lightly. "Show some manners young Pip. Legolas is a prince. Besides, he's not ~that~ pretty."

Legolas punched Aragorn lightly in the arm. "I'll have you know, Estel, that your brothers have said otherwise at least six times before the Council."

Aragorn grinned, "Ah Legolas, you know quite well that my sights are set to the darker beauty of the Evening Star. Is it my fault that Elladan and Elrohir have no taste?"

Legolas glared at his friend and Gandalf chuckled from where he sat with Bilbo. The two Hobbits were trying to decide if the two were jesting or not. Elrond cleared his throat.

"If you children are quite finished, I believe young Peregrin should return to his friends before they worry. And you, Aragorn, should know that whether or not you admire my daughter, you will not even ~think~ of anything along the lines of bonding until after you have a proper status."

Legolas grinned, "The over-protective father routine, always works."

Elrond turned to Legolas, "Do not get me started on you, Legolas. You ~will~ speak with Glorfindel tomorrow. Is that understood?"

Legolas sighed but nodded. Aragorn looked from his foster father to his friend.

"What happened with Glorfindel?"

Legolas swatted his arm, "Not for you to know."

Gandalf stood and ushered the two Hobbits out while Aragorn and Legolas bantered. Elrond shook his head and followed the wizard out of the room, muttering something about 'children'.

"So, what do you need to speak with Glorfindel about?"

Legolas rolled his eyes, "I already told you: nothing."

Aragorn smiled, feeling and looking very much like the youth he had been when he had seen Legolas last. He grabbed the Elf's arms when the blonde tried to walk away and threw him to the bed Pippin had been resting on a moment earlier. Aragorn quickly pinned Legolas beneath him, using his heavier frame to secure the lithe archer.

"Estel! Get off!" Legolas looked up into the grinning face of his mortal friend and momentarily wondered what the twins had been teaching him.

Aragorn tsked, "Really my dear Greenleaf, I expected you to remember what happens when you keep secrets from me."

Legolas rolled his eyes, "I'm in no mood for this, Estel. Leave the games to the twins."

"This is no game young archer," Aragorn said. His playful smile had been replaced by a concerned look that Legolas had never seen before.

"What happened here?" Aragorn lifted a hand to gently touch the bruise on the Elf's cheek. "Who dared to strike you?"

Legolas shifted, effectively getting the Man off of him. "It is nothing. None of your concern."

"Of course it is my concern. Who ever dares to harm my friend will answer to me."

Legolas smiled, "Why must you be so protective? I can take care of myself. Please leave it be?"

Aragorn nodded reluctantly. Legolas kissed the Man's cheek and smiled as he stood. "You will be a magnificant king, Aragorn."

A troubled look entered the Man's grey eyes, "I do not wish that fate. I have too much of my line's weakness."

Legolas shook his head, "Nay. You are kind, just, and a fierce protector. Arwen believes in you, and so do I. You have the heart of the Evenstar, and you have my loyalty."

The Elf lifted Aragorn's hand in his own and brought it to the jewel hanging from the silver chain around the Ranger's neck. Grey eyes met the clear sapphires before them.

"You are my brother Estel. And I love you as such. My father has taught me the importance of having someone to turn to in the darkest times, and I wish to be that for you when you have your doubts."

Aragorn smiled and stood, now looking down at the Elf(for he is a few inches taller). "Then I must be that for you as well, brother. What troubles you so?"

Legolas looked away, "I cannot say. Not now anyway."

"Legolas..."

"I will tell you soon," Legolas insisted. "But, please, for now leave it. We have not spoken for nigh two months. What has happened with you?"

Aragorn sighed and they started to leave the Healing Halls. "You heard much during the Council. There has been little else as of late."

"Well, what of Arwen? I have yet to see her. The twins seem everywhere, but I have not heard of their sister."

A faint smile spread itself over troubled features. "She is as she ever was. I fear loving her, she will give her immortality for me. I do not want that."

"She loves you."

"Ai! How I know. And I love her, there can never be another. But I do not want to see her make such a decision. Elrond has advised me that I should let her go. I have tried, but it is she that refuses the will of her sire."

A shadow seemed to pass over Legolas' fair features, but Aragorn was too deep in his own worries to notice.

"I would that she went to Valinor. As well as the twins. Though I could never tell them, I do not want them to be tied to me as well. You will one day pass over the Seas as well. Beyond the Towers to the Blessed Realm."

Legolas smiled, "One day, maybe. But it will be long in coming. My heart is with the forest."

Aragorn smiled, "And what of you? Has your heart been claimed by anyone yet?"

"Nay. Not all are as lucky as you. I have found no love."

"Elrohir admires you."

Legolas snorted, "As does Elladan. But to choose one is to tear their love for each other. I could never do that."

"But you like them?"

Legolas nodded, "Yes, I like Elrohir in particular. But I could not act on it. I do not think it is any more than an infatuation."

"Well, when you know, tell me. You will someone to hold him still long enough for you to tell him. And speaking of the devious pair..."

Legolas smiled in greeting to the twins quickly making their way down the hall towards him and Aragorn. Both were laughing and playfully trying to best the other in their jests.

"Here you two are! It is quite late, you should both find your rest," Elladan said. Elrohir nodded.

"Children should not be awake at such an hour. Why, what would your father say, Legolas? And you, Estel. You should know better than too keep the poor prince awake."

The two smiled and started to push their friends the way they had come. Elrohir's grin faded instantly as he saw the bruise on Legolas' cheek. He lifted a careful hand to it.

"Who has done this, Legolas?"

Legolas sighed, "It is nothing. Do not treat me as if I will break, I am not so delicate. Now, what are you both up to?"

The twins looked at each other, then to Aragorn. The Man shrugged.

Elrohir slung and arm around Legolas' shoulders. "We, little prince, were on our way to the gardens. But then we saw you and remembered how long it has been since you have graced these halls. But I think that it may be to late to enjoy a few games, the moon has passed his peak."

Elladan grinned again, "And the Hobbits all seem quite happy to huddle together in the Hall of Fire where they fell asleep. You should see them! It is like a litter of kittens! You cannot tell where one ends and the other begins. Glorfindel simply draped a blanket over the whole lot to make sure that they were not cold before retiring."

Aragorn chuckled, "I have had my fill of Hobbit 'cute-ness' for quite a while. Though when you are wading through knee deep water, being eaten alive by flies, you would be surprised at how quickly young Meriadoc loses his innocent language. He is worse than Lindir that time you threw him in the river."

The Elves laughed. Legolas yawned, "Well, I think it is time that I took my leave. I will see you at breakfast?"

The twins nodded but Aragorn shook his head. When met with questioning looks, the Man smiled.

"I have travelled through the Wild with a pack of Hobbits. It is enough keeping them from complaining about missing 'second breakfast,' let alone getting them here in one piece. I intend to take full advantage of being home for two months by sleeping in until lunch for at least a week."

The twins laughed and Legolas bid them a good night before making his way to his rooms.

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