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Truth Be Known	By : LisaC206 Category: Lord of the Rings Movies > Het - Male/Female Views: 3817 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings book series and movie series, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
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Chapter 2

The Longest Night

Legolas finished the bottle of wine off, glancing at his father. He wasn’t sure if he should question his father about the girl as he had a wicked temper when roused. An inquisitive elf for sure, he decided to chance it.

“Why are you so keen to help her father? Is it because she sings so beautifully for you and this has clouded your vision in these dangerous times?”

“You seem a little tense, Legolas. What is troubling you about the elf-maiden?” The King grinned, his face now flushed from the wine. “I may be older than you and the King of Mirkwood, but it is no crime to indulge in a little nights singing and glorious wine with a beautiful elf is it? Or do you think me too ambitious?” A deep chuckling emitted from his throat. He snapped his fingers and a servant brought over another bottle of wine. The crickets chirped noisily in the garden below, reminding them of the warm evening.

“Foolish maybe, not ambitious. You are obviously taken with her but are her motives pure, father? This sister of hers, may not exist and she has just achieved what no other person has been able to for many a year. Since when did we let strangers in with no announcement of their coming? No other person accompanying her on her dangerous errand throughout the lands? Not to mention, being wined and dined by the King himself- it’s unheard of!” Legolas eyed his father curiously. The ‘foolish’ comment was not lost on the King and looked like he might explode at his son any minute. Seeing the concern in his son’s eyes, he held his fiery temper in check.

“You speak of her as if she is some cursed witch, Legolas. Narninium is a harmless West Wood Elf searching for her lost kin. What if your sister was missing, and you were our last chance of finding her? You would do the same would you not? It is merely a simple request from a fellow elf, asking permission to look for her in my realm. Have I not entrusted you to oversee the search for her? Legolas, she is here now and you must help her as well as keep a sharp eye on her, I expect this much of you.”

“Of course I would do the same, but not unarmed and unescorted through all of Middle Earth. Something does not seem right but that is just an observation on my part, maybe I am too suspicious of her but these are dangerous times father.”

“Thank you for your concern, Legolas. I would like it if you would now turn your perceptive mind towards locating Thalia if possible. This elf may have slipped in unnoticed although I would have to take a serious look at my guards if this is to be true.” Thinking once more on Astaldo, the King frowned, pressing his fingertips to his brow. He wondered what on earth Astaldo had been thinking.

“What troubles you now father?” Legolas watched him intently.

“Too much fine wine my son, that is all” He replied. Legolas’ eyebrows arched and he noted that the King seemed to be avoiding telling him the truth.

“Maybe not enough” laughed Legolas. “There is still plenty of this wonderful evening left. Maybe you should have a feast soon with lots of fine wine, food and elves to cheer you up. It might bring this Thalia out of hiding without us having to do much at all.” Legolas’ eyes twinkled with this in mind.

“Not a bad idea- I could do with a celebration to liven things up around here. We will plan it for two nights time. Legolas, you can send word out tomorrow.”

“Yes, the sooner the better, we don’t want Narninium here in the palace forever now, do we?” A sly grin lit up his face a he eyed the King. Sensing the teasing, the King smiled in return.

“At least we might have some decent songs at the celebrations.” He winked at his son.

“I’m sure she would be delighted to entertain ‘you’ for the evening.” Legolas laughed lightly.

“She’s more likely to be looking forward to your presence, Legolas.”

Legolas shook his head at the idea.

“Nay, there is plenty more maidens for me to dance with and I’m sure you’ll be competing with all the male elves in Mirkwood!” He grinned swallowing the last of his wine. “Time I went for a walk- it is a great night you know.” Legolas walked to the balcony edge and looked down into the garden. He stood there, taking in the beautiful scents, when movement below caught his sharp eyes. Was that one of the border guards moving swiftly through the gardens and heading to the front of the palace? Legolas’ eyes narrowed as he observed who it was. Astaldo? Possibly, but he seemed disturbed and had come with a purpose.

“We have another guest tonight- Astaldo I think.” He said turning to face the King. King Thranduil’s eyes flashed for a moment.

“Yes, I was expecting him sometime soon. Maybe you should go for that walk Legolas. Belusewen mentioned that the “Oak Tree Inn” would be in full swing tonight- all the guards off duty are there for a great time, you must go see for yourself.” Did he sound too pushy?

Legolas watched him for a moment before saying: “ I have not seen Astaldo in a while; I should like to speak with him. Maybe he would like to come too, after he has spoken with the King?” He knew he was being wicked; after all, he could spot an angry guard when he saw one. His father was trying to get rid of him. Legolas had decided to go, but not before making the King feel uncomfortable. He could not resist and wondered what Astaldo had on his mind.

“I’m sure I could send him along afterwards if you wish.” The King’s cheek muscle twitched.

“That would be fine, father- I’ll see you in the morning.” He smiled sweetly. The King’s discomfort had not been overlooked.

*****

Now that he had got to the palace, Astaldo had to calm himself down and think what he should say to the King. Remembering that he was going to be reprimanded himself for a severe lack of duty and breech of rules. He knew the King would forgive him but only because she had been alone and without weapons.

Astaldo had been a border guard for many years. He was always ready to serve his King and People and loved being a guard and a highly skilled warrior. He had fought many battles and was hard on himself, honing his archery skills to perfection and swordplay was continually practiced. Most of the guards and elves were keen to compete in archery/swordfight competitions. Astaldo had won a few himself- but Legolas- the King’s son, was hard to beat. He had been away at the time of the last competition, which gave Astaldo his chance to win. They were always good humored about these events, and Mirkwood’s archers were famous in MiddleEarth so they had a reputation to uphold.

Astaldo had never turned down a request to compete. Most archers were invited, but there were also minor events to cater for everyone. He was pleased that he was considered good enough to be in the top ten archers, as there were many more experienced elves than him. Practice and a skill for it, were in his favour.

Since he was a young elf ling, he had admired the skill of the archers, and knew one day he would be up there too. His hunting, scouting and keen eye sight made him perfect to patrol the borders of the King’s realm and he was happy to be away in the forest all day. He knew every path and grove of trees, and had mastered silent scouting of the forest, even the animals were not aware of his presence. Then, there was the discovery of Narninium in the woods. What a find that was! He knew he was attracted to the elf and wanted to get to know her better. Her mission to find her sister would hopefully give them that time together he now craved; unless the King had other plans. He had to focus on that and not lose his temper with the King, as that would not get him anywhere, except thrown out.

Astaldo swiftly took the steps two at a time to the front of the palace. The two guards halted him and asked him his business. Recognizing him they allowed the elf to enter after summoning a palace guard to escort him inside.

The candles on the wall flickered sending an eerie light around the main chamber. He had been inside the palace numerous times before but not for something so personal. The guard led him to the tiny door and knocked on it. Another guard showed him in and here he waited in the small room for the King. “He will not be long,” the guard said. The desk was piled high with many parchments and the King’s quill. It looked as though he had stopped writing half way through a letter.

“Astaldo, welcome on this pleasant evening” The King greeted him from the winding stairwell. “ Please come up to the balcony and join me for some wine”

Surprised at the warm greeting, Astaldo walked towards the King and bowed with a puzzled look on his fine-looking face. Surely the King would be most interested in the part he played with Narninium? With some trepidation he followed him onto the balcony with the smell of Wisteria all around them. King Thranduil in such a light-hearted mood was most unusual.

“Please be seated.” The King made himself at home in the chair he had previously occupied. This was going to be a long night he thought to himself. Astaldo sat opposite him and watched the King open one of his famous bottles of Dorwinion wine. The aroma was mouth watering and Astaldo found himself eagerly reaching for his goblet. Out of politeness he sipped it at first, but it tasted so delightful he downed the rest rather quickly. The King smirked when he saw this, thinking of his former guest who had done exactly the same.

“So you like the vintage then?”

“It’s as good as they say”

“Oh, who says so?”

“It is a well know fact you make the best wine in Mirkwood, and possibly all of MiddleEarth, My Lord.” Astaldo answered truthfully.

“High praise indeed. You will have to come taste it more often, Astaldo.”

“With pleasure, My Lord.” Astaldo couldn’t quite believe his luck. Only distinguished guests usually got to drink the King’s special vintage wine.

“So, you requested to speak with me- what is it? I know I was to see you sometime this evening, but I have been busy; I can’t even get my letters finished.”

“Yes My Lord, I had noticed that. It was about the elf-maiden, My Lord.” Astaldo realized his earlier anger had almost disappeared. The King’s eyebrows arched high as he waited for the guard to continue. “I was wondering if she was being truthful with me and… if you still had her in your care.” He said these last words almost shyly, and found it hard to look at the King.

“You will be thankful that she was not arrested, as is the normal procedure for intruders.” He looked sternly at the border guard. “You were wrong to take her to your home and not report to me.”

“Yes I know My Lord. I am truly sorry for neglecting my duties but she was singing in the forest and she has the most unbelievable voice- it put some kind of spell over me,” he rushed on, as if this explained his lapse in judgment.

“I am well aware of the West Wood Elves singing and they can be enchanting, but you should gave been more wary.” The King sipped his wine. He was in a fairly good mood after all his wine and food that evening; he did not want to stay mad at Astaldo, who probably was the best border guard he had and not likely to be easily fooled.

“You know of their singing? I wanted to help her find her sister; I believed her story. My mother had to translate for me but she seemed genuine.”

“Yes she is a fine young elf and spent some time telling me about her missing sister. But I must insist Astaldo that this is your only lapse in judgement or your punishment shall be severe. I would not like to lose such a worthy Border Guard” The King’s face was grim as he thought of the possible problems she could have caused. “But as no harm was done I shall be responsible for her now, let’s just enjoy the night air and our drinks.”

Astaldo was relieved and shocked all at the same time. Did he plan to imprison her until they had found Thalia? The King had been fair with him and he had to be thankful for that. What truly delicious wine he thought. Had Narninium had any? Where was she?

The King observed Astaldo's flicker of emotions. What a fine looking elf he is, the King thought. Certainly a rival for that son of mine. A devious thought entered his mind and he smiled smugly to himself. “You must come to our celebrations in two days time- I am inviting you personally.”

“Thank you My Lord. What is the occasion?” Not that elves needed any occasion to have a party.

“Oh nothing really. Just a suggestion by Legolas to cheer me up and we haven’t had one for a while. Make sure you enter the archery competition- I shall have a prize for the winner”

“ I love to compete in the archery more than anything, My Lord.”

“Ah and what about dancing with fair maidens? Don’t you love to do that also?” He flashed a wicked grin at Astaldo.

“Yes, but that’s different. I’m more competitive with a bow and arrow.” Astaldo’s flushed with embarrassment. Although he loved to chat with elf maidens and dance with them, he was a warrior first.

“Mmmm…you seem so like Legolas, if only he would put in as much time with the ladies as he does with target practice, he would have a wife in no time.” King Thranduil downed his wine and poured then both another.

“ Surely he would have no problems there? Every elf maiden dotes on him- even from afar. He has the pick of all of Mirkwood, and further, it would seem.” Astaldo reached for his goblet.

“Yes but he is reluctant to find one true elf maiden. He prefers the company of many and takes none of them too seriously.” Astaldo did not reply, but thought on how similar he and the Prince were. He did not really chase maidens but did not turn them down either. His life felt fulfilled with patrolling the woods and spending time with his friends. He was happiest being a warrior. That is, until he met Narninium. Now he couldn’t think straight.

“Where is Legolas tonight, My Lord? I have not spoken with him for quite some time.”

“He’s off to the ‘Oak Tree Inn’ with all the guards. He wants you to join him later.”

*****

Legolas slipped quietly into the gardens. He did not wish to eavesdrop but he could not help overhearing Astaldo’s voice above his father’s. He was asking something about the girl from the West Woods but he did not seem angry anymore. He seemed more concerned about her whereabouts- maybe he wanted to take care of her? What is it about that elf? Legolas thought. She has put a spell on everyone with her voice. Am I the only one immune to it? She could have walked in here anytime she liked. All she needed to do was sing to the guards and they’d be at her mercy. Maybe she is a witch. These thoughts were all going around in his head when he reached the tavern.

Much laughter and music could be heard flowing through the open door. Hopefully Astaldo would turn up later and he could ask him about the girl. He headed in the door as the elves let out a roar of laughter as two of them fell off their chairs. They were all singing and having a merry old time. Legolas got a drink and joined them.

*****

Narninium looked around her room. It was simple- not much furniture, a bed, a nightstand with a candle, and a double seated comfy chair by the fire. The maid had lit the fire for her and she now stood by it trying to warm up her hands. The moon glinted at her through the window and she looked up for her beloved stars. ‘The seven sisters’ were a favourite for her and Thalia. As young elves, they always looked for them first as they were such a pretty cluster. She wondered where Thalia could be. She was sure this was the right place. Narninium could sense her sister was close by, and with the King on her side; maybe she would be reunited soon. Then she would really sing with joy.

What an interesting day she had had, first Astaldo and his mother, now the King and his son. Legolas had taken her by surprise. He did not seem so moved by her voice as most elves. Not to worry, she was more interested in seeing Astaldo again. Thinking of his dark hair and silver eyes caused a warm flush deep inside her. He was much more rugged looking than most elves she knew, but this did not discourage her at all. Astaldo’s complexion had a sun-kissed look and a radiance all of his own. Legolas’s skin was creamy whitish in contrast, as was normal with elves, and his eyes a vivid blue.

The wine is going to my head. Here she was dreaming about a border guard she’d only just met and would probably not see again until she left Mirkwood. I wish we could understand each other. She sighed to herself. The language barrier was a real problem for them. I shall try to learn Sindarin whilst I am here. Not so hard for an elf from the West Wood- as language was their specialty. Looking around the room, she saw an old book on the windowsill. It’s cover was old and tattered and showed it had been a well read book indeed. She flipped it open to see the unmistakable flowing script of Sindarin and sitting by the fire, she began to study the words. Many were familiar but most she skimmed over them in a blurry haze. Banging it shut, she got up, tired and restless now. She went and looked at the stars once more and opening the window she sang out into the dark night.

*****

Astaldo bid the King goodnight, not having found out much about Narninium, but he was in a much better mood, and making his way to the mentioned tavern. He reached the mermaid fountain before the palace, when he heard it. A voice so full of emotion, the strange accent...alluring. He knew that voice could belong to no other than Narninium. Searching the palace walls before him, he spotted the open window high up on the second floor, and a figure of an elf there. Her song was filled with sadness and his heart ached with the sound of her. She seemed oblivious to everyone and everything when she sang. Then she changed to a much more uplifting song full of hope and happiness. He was mesmerized by her voice, and instead going to the tavern, he just stood there listening to her. The guards below her were also listening and smiling to themselves. He wanted to call out, but felt a little foolish. As her song finished and the notes gently died away, she lowered her eyes, to see Astaldo standing in the garden. He was smiling up at her, she had completely captivated him. A tingle raced down her spine and she waved to him. Astaldo returned the wave and motioned for her to come down. But Narninium shook her head, sadly waved goodbye and shut the window.

She walked towards her bed, her arms wrapped about her waist, hugging herself. She knew she would at last sleep content, having seen Astaldo again

*****

Astaldo thought he could persuade Narninium to come outside, but she had turned away and shut the window. Her voice was still in his ears- and his heart, as he walked towards the tavern feeling the strong urge to have a drink and see some friends. The atmosphere was warm and full of merriment in the tavern. Lots of elves were there, drinking and singing and some even dancing. He got a drink and was surrounded by friends who had been there for some time.

“Astaldo, come join us for some singing” said Béchamel, clapping him on the shoulder in a light-hearted manner, nearly spilling his drink.

“Yes our team needs you,” said Mendel, on his other side. They sat at the table where lots of wine had been spilt, and listened to the other team complete their verse. As that team finished, they roared with laughter, picking one of their teammates up and cheering. It was no other than Legolas, and he was laughing and singing above their heads. Astaldo grinned as he watched them carefully place the prince back on his seat at the head of the long table.

Then it was his team’s turn to sing and they were extremely loud. They all got up and danced around the table, such was their joy at being the loudest and laughed when the song was completed. Legolas and his team clapped and cheered and they all lifted their goblets to toast each other.

“I announce the border team as the winners” said Legolas, grinning at them all and winking towards Astaldo. “The palace team were brilliant but we were not loud enough” He eyed his team up with a smirk. “So here’s to the border guards” They raised their goblets and downed their wine swiftly. Smiling and chuckling to themselves, they returned to their own conversations.

Legolas caught Astaldo’s eye and gestured for him to come over. “Glad to see you made it Astaldo. I have not seen you in a while.” Legolas was genuinely pleased to see the warrior elf again. “What have you been doing of late? Besides finding elf-maidens wandering in our woods, with enchanting voices and alluring eyes.” He said, playfully prodding Astaldo in the ribs. He knew he was guessing that Astaldo had found Narninium, but it seemed an accurate one judging by the look on Astaldo’s face.

“So you know about Narninium? What did you make of her story- did you believe it?”

“It’s possible I suppose. I mean to say, you let her in, didn’t you? So maybe another guard let her sister in. My father thought her delightful, and she had him spellbound with her singing.” Legolas glanced at Astaldo to see his reaction to this. Astaldo’s eyes merely glazed over and he seemed to forget the Prince for that moment. Dreamily, he spoke of her.

“Yes her songs could captivate even the most resilient of elves. I just heard her sing before I came here and my ears are still ringing with pleasure.”

“Not you as well!” The Prince gave Astaldo an exasperated look. “I agree she is rather stunning in an unusual way, but her voice does not capture me the same way as you and my father. I think she has the powers of a witch and I am not sure if I trust her. My father wants me to help her search for this sister of hers tomorrow.”

“I would like to help you do that, but the King did not ask for my services. Is there some way in which I can be of use?”

Sipping his wine thoughtfully, Legolas had an idea. “I will think of something, my friend. Do not worry; you will see your West Wood Elf again. Did father tell you about the party in two days time?”

He invited me personally and said there would be a fine archery competition, with a prize for the winner.”

“Really? He did not mention it to me, what prize?” Astaldo shrugged his shoulders. “I will have to find out more.” Legolas smiled at Astaldo. This is going to be fun. He jumped up on the table and motioned for quiet.

“I have an announcement to make to you all! In two days time, the King is having a celebration with plenty of food, wine and beautiful ladies.” Lots of cheers went up around the room. “I invite you all, my friends, for a little merriment and some tough competitions with a prize for the winner, no less.” More cheers went up and lots of goblets were raised in the air. “There will be some entertainment for everyone, and the King expects all you talented warriors to compete in the weaponry games. I cannot inform you of the prize yet, as I do not know myself!” A roar of laughter went up. “I expect you to spread the word tomorrow so we can have an excellent party, no one should bet out out. Thank you.” With that he lightly jumped off the table and resumed his seat next to Astaldo.

There was an excited murmur through the crowd, as they liked nothing more than a Royal party, with prizes, even better.
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