The Caverns of Mirkwood 
Author: Nebride 
nebride@mindspring.com

PG-13  Mystery/Angst

A/N: This is a sequel to "The Road to Isengard". It is dedicated to 
the many wonderful people who encouraged me with that little LOTR 
experiment. Thank you so much!!! :)

It takes place about 1-1/2 years after the events in "The Road to 
Isengard" and includes a little more of Gimli than the last story did.

It is rated PG13 for grossness factor mostly. The category for it is: 
Mystery, Action, Angst, and Romance (no slash. I wouldn't have a clue 
how to write it. *shrugs*)

Enjoy and thanks for reading. ~Nebride





"The Caverns of Mirkwood"

Chapter 1

Friends in Need

"It's very pretty, I grant you," Legolas said to his friend Gimli. The 
Elf and the Dwarf stood in a private courtyard in the royal palace of 
Minas Tirith. Before them was a huge stone pool carved in the likeness 
of a water lily. The granite petals cupped the still blue water.

"But would it not look better with real plants and lilies adorning the 
surface of the water?" Legolas continued. "It is rather plain as it 
is."

"Nay," Gimli cried, his face alight with enthusiasm. "For that is the 
cleverest part! One of my craftsmen had devised a way to make the 
water fountain from the center. Then the water will dance and tinkle 
into the pool below. And when the Lady Arwen." here Gimli gestured 
toward the royal apartments. ". steps out onto her balcony she will be 
greeted by the sound of water."

"I am not sure, my friend," Legolas said. "But I believe that her 
Ladyship would prefer lilies. There is already too much stone in 
Gondor."

"Too much stone!" Gimli blustered with a growl. "It is not possible to 
have too much stone. Stone holds a shape like no living thing! It will 
not wither or die. Stone lasts for eternity, standing proud long after 
its maker has perished."

"Perhaps some brightly colored fish," Legolas suggested, ignoring his 
friend's outburst. The Elf kept his face as neutral as possible so 
that Gimli would not know that he teased him. Though in truth his 
amusement was threatening to bubble over at any moment.

"Fish!" Gimli roared. "What in Middle Earth would you want fish in the 
pool for? Nasty, smelly." he widened his stance, his face grim, 
clearly he was set to argue all day over this issue. "I'll not have 
your water weeds and fish fouling my fountain!"

Legolas finally lost the battle with his self-control and doubled over 
with laughter.

"Oh, curse you Legolas," Gimli rumbled once he'd realized the Elf had 
been having a joke on him. "How a race can be as melancholy one moment 
and frivolous the next as Elves is beyond me!"

Legolas clapped his friend on the back, "I'm sure Lady Arwen will be 
very pleased with it, just as it is."

The dwarf was still grumbling to himself. "I hope so," he said as they 
started to walk away. "But I'd better not find any weeds or fish in it 
Legolas!"

Legolas winked at him conspiratorially and Gimli muttered in his beard 
something about 'damn Elves'.

"Come," Legolas chuckled, a companionable hand on his friend's 
shoulder. "Let me buy you a mug of that ale you relish so to make up 
for the teasing you have suffered."

Gimli's eyes brightened. "Buy me two and we'll call it even."

"Done."

*********

The two were walking back up to the palace from the inn when they 
heard the frantic beat of horses hooves on the cobbled streets. 
Legolas looked around, for horses were unusual inside the stone city. 
As the horse paused at one of the many gates, Legolas heard the rider 
cry to the gatekeeper, "I have an urgent message for Prince Legolas of 
Mirkwood!"

"Here," Legolas called as he ran to the gate.

An Elf wearing the clothing of Mirkwood slid gracefully off of his 
weary horse and bowed. "Your Highness, your father lies gravely ill 
and begs you to return."

"Ill! What illness does he have?"

"It is the same illness that felled your Lady Mother."

Legolas staggered slightly at the news and immediately felt a strong 
hand grip his arm. He glanced down gratefully at Gimli, then addressed 
the messenger again. "We must ride immediately. I'll fetch us fresh 
horses."

"What can I do?" Gimli asked. "I would come with you, but I would slow 
your ride. Even I will admit that two Elves can travel swifter on 
horseback when not encumbered by a Dwarf. Shall I follow you?"

"Nay," Legolas said as they walked swiftly toward the stables. "But if 
you would bring me parchment and quill, I would be grateful."

"You seek to send a letter?" Gimli said puzzled.

"Yes, to the Lady Alede. She is the most skilled healer I know of. If 
anyone can cure my father, she can."

"Ahhh," Gimli said with some misgivings, for he had heard the story of 
his friend's rescue and had guessed at the parts that Legolas had 
omitted. "Of course. I'll bring it to you in the stables so as not to 
slow your departure. Lord Aragorn can speak to birds as you can and 
will send your message."

"Thank you, my friend," and Legolas hurried away, a slight tremor in 
his belly that was not all due to his father's illness.

*********



A/N: I’m borrowing an idea from Jocelyn’s “A Little Nudge Out of the 
Door” and I’ll be posting the names of original characters at the end 
of chapters to make it easier to keep straight. Alede (àl uh dây) was 
introduced in “The Road to Isengard.”

Oh, and “*” indicates unspoken thoughts.

Enjoy and thanks for reading! Nebride

*********

“The Caverns of Mirkwood”

Chapter 2

Urgent Plea





Alede sat on the balcony gazing absently out at the trees of 
Rivendell. Out of long habit, her fingers stroked the simple locket 
that hung around her neck. It was wrought of gold and shaped like a 
tiny leaf. Inside lay coiled one long silver gold hair. She’d had it 
made over a year and a half ago and never took it off.

Ever.

Below her a group of Elves strolled into view. They spotted her and 
waved. She smiled and waved back. It was good that Rivendell had not 
been deserted after Elrond’s departure.

This particular group were wood Elves from Lorien. After Galadrial’s 
departure some of her people had delayed their leaving to the West, 
stopping at Rivendell as a part of their pilgrimage. Many of them had 
stayed. And every now and then wandering companies also stopped, often 
losing a few of their members to stay in Rivendell. It looked as if 
the ancient Elvin stronghold would never be completely deserted, of 
which Alede was glad.

*This place is too dear to lose to the ages*, she thought. *And 
Elladan and Elrohir are here.* Though she knew not for how long. She 
suspected that the twins would follow their father eventually.

Rivendell would become even more secretive than it had been in the 
past, but at least it would be here. Since the third age had passed, 
the age of Elves was over. The last wizards who remained in Middle 
Earth had joined with the Elves to conceal these last refuges of the 
old age. Rivendell and the Shire would both be hidden by the mist of 
magic, safe, but gradually passing out of the awareness of mankind.

It was the last great works of wizards before they too passed over the 
sea and into the Undying Land. Alede dreaded the time when she knew 
she must pass over, for she loved Middle Earth. Yet at the same time, 
she knew the land was changing. And that which she loved so much would 
be gone. And what would Middle Earth be with only a few strongholds of 
Elves and Hobbits? Without the Elvin influence, she feared it would be 
a dreary land. There was one Elf in particular whose absence would be 
keenly felt.

“Daydreaming Daughter?”

Alede started at the voice behind her, though she immediately knew who 
it was. Turning she smiled up at her father.

“I’m sorry I startled you,” the old wizard said, kindly patting her 
shoulder.

“It’s alright Father. Please join me.” She indicated the chair 
opposite her.

Radagast the Brown sat down slowly and Alede wrinkled her brow at his 
apparent stiffness. Her father was a minor wizard and had not the 
skill to ward off the complaints of old age. His face was etched with 
lines, though his green eyes still sparkled with good humor. Saruman 
had thought her father lacking in intelligence. But Alede knew that 
the head of the council never understood or appreciated Radagast’s 
simple ways.

For a wizard to follow the humble path of the natural world was 
considered a waste. But Alede saw no waste in a man who spent his life 
mending broken wings or conversing with trees. Radagast was a kind and 
thoughtful wizard who’d raised his daughter with an equal appreciation 
of Middle Earth.

Radagast sighed and Alede reminded herself to fix him some willow bark 
tea later. It soothed his pain.

“I much prefer the winters here in Rivendell,” Radagast said. “They 
are milder. It was kind of you spend it with me this year instead of 
in your tower house in the Misty Mountains. Its too cold up there, 
makes my bones ache.”

Alede smiled sadly and her fingers touched the locket instinctively. 
She was unaware that she did it, but the gesture was not lost on her 
father.

“I imagine spring has come to the land of Ithilien, don’t you?” he 
asked innocently.

“That was not very subtle,” Alede said wryly, giving her father a mock 
frown.

Radagast chuckled. “Yes, I know. But perhaps you should spend the 
spring there. We can manage the work here without you for a while. I 
remember what it was like to be in love. Your mother meant everything 
to me.”

“But, I am not in love, Father.” Alede rose swiftly. “I’m going to 
take a walk. I’ve depleted my supply of willow bark. I’ll gather some 
more, so that I may make you a tea tonight.”

“Alede, I did not mean…” Radagast began, but she swept out of the room 
quickly, not wanting to hear the rest. Because she did not look back, 
she missed the expression of worry and regret on her father’s face.

Nearly every day he hinted to her about Prince Legolas. She began to 
regret that she’d ever mentioned him.

“Of course there was really nothing to mention,” she whispered 
fiercely to herself as she strode down the winding pathways. “He only 
kissed me goodbye and held me twice…” Her face crumpled and she 
stopped in a secluded archway, cursing the tears that threatened. The 
memories of those embraces both comforted her and pained her. Anger 
was the only emotion that could keep those memories at bay and she 
often scolded herself.

She had known Legolas only thirteen days. Thirteen days should not 
have been enough time to form such a strong attachment. Yet when 
they’d parted, Alede had known herself to be in love with him. She had 
hoped that with time he might come to miss her, for they’d become good 
friends. But in a year and a half, there had been no word.

*Not that I expected any,* she thought bitterly. He did not love her. 
Why would he send her any word? She had saved his life, he had saved 
hers. They were even. She must cease thinking about him and get on 
with her life.

Disgusted with her self-pity, Alede walked swiftly down to the stables 
and took a mount, riding out of the valley and following the river.

She rode for a couple of hours, forcing herself to concentrate on 
finding a suitable willow tree. On the windy plains above Rivendell 
there were few trees, but some grew along the river. Spring had not 
quite reached the up lands. Though tiny buds showed on bushes and 
scrub, the trees were still bare. A young willow swept its branches 
over a marshy area and Alede slipped off her horse.

She approached the willow warily. Many trees did not like those who 
walked abroad and it would not do to be caught in one’s snare if it 
were hostile. She hummed to it a little to soothe it and then gently 
pressed an ear to the rough bark.

A cacophony of sounds greeted her from inside the tree. Branches 
creaked in the wind, sap flowed, buds clattered, but above all burbled 
the cheerful voice of the tree.

The wizardess leaned back and laughed. “Well met Mistress Willow,” she 
cried. The tree swayed its branches and chattered back to her.

Alede spent an enjoyable morning beneath the willow. The tree was 
young, but old enough to remember the Elves of Rivendell. It clattered 
happily as Alede delicately cut away dead branches and trimmed off 
tiny portions of pealing bark. She would take nothing live from such a 
sweet natured tree. The willow was only too glad to be spruced up and 
talked eagerly of robin’s nests and spring buds.

She stopped at midday and took some bread and apples from her 
saddlebag. The apples were wrinkled from their winter storage, but 
still sweet. Alede leaned against the willow’s trunk and had her 
lunch. Lulled by the soft sounds around her, she gradually closed her 
eyes.

Alede did not even realize she had fallen asleep until the shrill cry 
of a hawk startled her. Looking around, she could not see it. The 
skies appeared empty. But when she looked around the base of the tree 
trunk, she finally spotted the small hawk headed toward Rivendell. 
Noting its labored flight, Alede wondered if it were injured. In any 
case, it was heading toward the Elfin city. Her father would care for 
it and she would enquire once she got back.

Giving the hawk no more thought, Alede picked up her knife and went 
back to work on the tree.

Alede arrived back in Rivendell just as the sun was setting. A day out 
in the wild had done her good and her melancholy was gone. She 
unloaded her horse, for she’d found other medicinal herbs in her 
wanderings and then rubbed the gentle beast down, sending him off to 
his feed.

As she trudged back to her rooms with the saddlebag over her shoulder, 
her father’s shout made her stop.

“Alede! Where have you been?! I’ve been looking all over for you!”

“I went to gather willow bark. I told you this morning…”

“Never mind that child. I’ve a message for you!”

“A message?”

Radagast handed over a tiny parchment. “It was tied around the neck of 
a hawk. The poor bird has been flying for miles trying to find you. It 
had nearly exhausted its strength, but I think it will be…”

“The royal seal of the Prince of Mirkwood!” Alede exclaimed 
interrupting her father.

Radagast beamed. “Yes, dear. That’s why I was so anxious to find you.”

With shaking hands Alede broke the wax and unrolled the tiny scroll. 
She quickly scanned it. “King Thranduil is ill and Legolas begs me to 
come to Mirkwood at once.” She looked at the date, “It is twelve days 
since he wrote it. Father, I must go at once!”

“But to Mirkwood Daughter?” Radagast had lost his enthusiasm. 
“Remember what happened last time? Are you sure?”

“Of course I’m sure! I imagine Legolas has explained to his father 
that I’m not as evil as once thought. We spent 13 days together after 
all. Please father, help me pack.”

*********

As the spell horse touched down on the eastern boundaries of Mirkwood, 
Alede wondered if it were a good omen that the sun had just risen. 
She’d flown all night to get here quickly. Unlike that last time three 
hundred years ago when the urgent plea had come from Mirkwood.

Elrond had been gone from Rivendell then. Elladan, his oldest son had 
sent Alede. That Elladan had, had such confidence in her skills to 
send her in place of his father, had been a great compliment.

But at that time, Alede had not dabbled too greatly in green magic. 
She had not then possessed the ability to make a spell horse. Instead, 
she’d barrowed one of Rivendell’s fastest horses and set out for 
Mirkwood immediately. One did not tarry when the wife of an Elf king 
was ill. Unfortunately, she arrived too late, despite the incredible 
swiftness of the Elfin horse she rode. The queen of Mirkwood’s king 
had died even as Alede had approached the bed.

King Thranduil had flown into a rage, blaming the young wizardess for 
his wife’s death. The following argument had shook the halls of the 
forest kingdom and Alede had found herself locked in the dungeon for 
three days. After her escape, she’d never returned.

*But now, here I am*, she mused as she came out of her reverie and 
looked up at the dark trees overhead.

The summons this time had been different though. Legolas had asked for 
her, so the misunderstanding with his family must be over.

Alede’s heart pounded at the thought of seeing Legolas again. She only 
wished that the circumstances were better.

*Much better*, she thought as three Elves suddenly stepped out of the 
trees, their dark bows aimed at her. She sincerely hoped that the 
hospitality of King Thranduil’s kingdom had improved.

*********

And to answer your question Jocelyn: In this story, Radagast is only a 
healer of birds and animals. His age is probably similar to Gandalf, 
though he is not as skilled. Because he’s spent much of his life 
wandering the wilderness he suffers from arthritis. But it doesn’t 
slow him down too much. :) He stays in Rivendell (instead of going 
with Alede) to continue working the magic that will eventually “hide” 
Rivendell from the outside world. The wizards are preparing some of 
the last Elvin strongholds for the time when Middle Earth is dominated 
by men and the “old ways” are forgotten. I see LOTR as a fictional 
history of our own world. Maybe I’ve just seen “Brigadoon” too many 
times. lol But I like to think that the Elvin strongholds are still 
here, we just can’t see them. Also, though he and Alede are very fond 
of each other, they are also very independent. Alede is 527 years old 
and can look out for herself. Though if Radagast had fore warning of 
what happens to her in Mirkwood, no doubt he would have gone with her! 
:D ~Nebride

*** By the way… “ [ “ indicates the contents of a written letter. “ * 
” indicates unspoken thought. ***





“The Caverns of Mirkwood”

Chapter 3

Mistakes Made





[Dear Gimli,]

Legolas put down the quill and considered what to write to his friend. 
Upon his arrival in Mirkwood, he’d found a letter from Gimli already 
waiting for him. The hawk that had brought the tiny scroll apparently 
had overtaken Legolas and the Mirkwood messenger. The situation was 
dire, but if he expressed that to Gimli, he had no doubt that the 
Dwarf would arrive in Mirkwood. As much as Legolas wished his friend 
were with him, he didn’t want him to come. They still did not know the 
nature of Thranduil’s illness and Legolas would not wish to endanger 
Gimli should it prove to be contagious.

There was also the local opinion of Dwarves. Legolas would not see his 
friend the brunt of prejudice.

Sighing, Legolas picked up the quill again.

[Dear Gimli,

I thank you for your concern. My father is still very ill, but there 
is no cause for you to come here. I will write when I have more 
information. May I ask a favor? If you would travel to Ithilien to 
inform my people there of the situation and the reason for my absence, 
I would have one less worry.

My thanks,

Legolas]

*********

Legolas sat on the far side of his father’s bed and tried to calm the 
knot that had developed in his stomach since his return home. His 
father was desperately ill. Legolas was devastated by the King’s 
shrunken appearance and obvious fragility.

He was also upset by their argument, as was his father. When he’d 
announced that he’d already sent a message to one of Middle Earth’s 
best healers, Legolas thought that his family would be relieved. 
Instead, he’d created a maelstrom of emotions and conflict. Now, after 
hearing Thranduil’s reasons, he desperately wished that he’d never 
sent the message to the wizardess.

*Alede let my mother die!* His mind still refused to accept it. That 
Alede had kept it secret from him seemed like a contradiction to her 
very nature. Well he remembered her honest face, her deep concern…

A servant entered, bowing and speaking softly, “My Lords, a Lady Alede 
has arrived and begs immediate audience with the King. She claims his 
Highness Prince Legolas sent for her.”

Furious glances met him from his brother and his father.

“Get rid of her,” King Thranduil croaked to the servant.

But Legolas stood up quickly. “I’ll take care of this, Father.” He had 
to know. He had to hear the lie from her own lips before he could 
believe it.

He strode from the room, passing into the hallway. Alede stood between 
two Elfin hunters. Her dark robes looked at if they’d been hastily 
smoothed. Tiny tendrils of golden hair curled about her face where 
they had begun to escape her long braid. She watched the door with 
eager eyes and butterflies formed in his stomach at the sight of her. 
Well he remembered her sweet face…

Her features lit up at the sight of him and for a moment Legolas 
thought she would run to embrace him. But she seemed to remember where 
she was and instead dropped a graceful curtsey.

“Your Highness,” she said and her smile was too much for him. How 
could she be smiling when his father lay ill in the room behind him?

Controlling his anger, Legolas dismissed the two hunters. He did not 
want an audience. But before he could speak, Alede asked about his 
father.

“How is your father? Your message came only yesterday. I got here as 
quickly as I could.”

“Not well,” Legolas said tightly. “But we will not be needing your 
services…”

“You mean, he recovers?” she asked.

“No, but he will not allow you to treat him. And I will not have one 
who has deceived me in my presence.”

“Legolas…” She reached out to touch his arm, but he threw her hand 
away. The gesture was not violent, but conveyed his anger eloquently. 
He took a step closer and she backed against the wall.

“I trusted you,” he said. His voice was low, but bristled with fury. 
“I trusted you, I believed in you and I cared for you. But you 
deceived me. Thirteen days we were together and you mentioned not that 
my mother died in your presence. Thirteen days, Alede!”

Her face crumpled and she sagged against the wall, putting her hands 
over her eyes.

*********

“I trusted you.”

The words echoed in her mind, long after Legolas stopped speaking. She 
felt as if her heart was breaking and she’d never be able to pick up 
the pieces. The mistake she’d made was haunting her now more than she 
could have ever realized it might. She’d been afraid of what Legolas 
might think then, afraid of what his father might have told him. And 
now, now that it was too late, who knew what tale Thranduil had spun?

*What have I done?* she thought miserably.

Slowly she lowered her hands, looking up into his angry, beautiful 
face.

“I am sorry, Legolas. It was wrong of me to keep it from you…”

“Wrong?!” He almost shouted. “The word barely covers it!”

She winced, “Yes, you’re right. I…”

“What?” His arms were folded across his chest and Alede felt tears 
coming. To think she’d been so excited to see him again. But his 
twilight colored eyes held no greeting. He clearly wanted nothing more 
than to never see her again.

“I was afraid,” she whispered, blinking back the tears. “Afraid of 
what King Thranduil might have told you. He declared me outlaw and I 
knew not how you would react if you knew who I was. Your injuries were 
so sever at first that I wished not to cause you alarm. And later 
after you began to mend, I …”

“You, what?” he prompted.

Alede remembered those joyous days. They’d sat in the sun, had pillow 
fights and talked of their journeys. His mother’s death had been far 
from her mind. She had been falling in love then…

“I forgot,” she whispered finally, lowering her eyes.

“You forgot?” Fury vibrated in his voice. “My mother’s death was so 
trivial to you, that you forgot?”

*Now that was going too far.*

Her head came up and she matched his gaze. “No. Your mother’s death 
was not trivial. Not in the least. But I was concerned with other 
matters then, if you’ll remember,” she gave him a pointed look.

“That is no excuse.”

“Perhaps not. But I am here now and will do what I can to rectify my 
mistake.”

Legolas made a dismissive sound. “And how will you do that? Can you 
bring my mother back, or do you intend to return my father’s gold?”

“Your father’s gold? Legolas,” she shook her head bewildered. “I know 
not of what you speak. Are you accusing me of being a thief?” Then 
comprehension dawned. No doubt Thranduil had concocted a wild story 
about her. If the King even suspected that his youngest son had 
befriended her, he’d be quick to stop it. Elves did not lie, but 
Thranduil was known even among his own race as a manipulator.

That Legolas would believe him instead of trusting her, hurt beyond 
belief. Pain made her words harsh and impulsive. “Tell me, what story 
has Thranduil invented about me? No doubt it is quite a tale. Ever 
does he exaggerate to manipulate people and events to his own 
purposes.”

She knew it was the wrong thing to say the moment the words left her 
mouth. Legolas’ eyes darkened and the muscles of his jaw bunched in 
anger.

Quickly, he strode to the end of the hall, signally a servant. Alede 
followed him trying to form an apology. She should not have spoken of 
his father so. But it was difficult for her to realize that there were 
those who were fond of Thranduil.

Before she could speak, Legolas turned to her.

“Because it is my duty, I will give you hospitality for tonight. But 
then I want you gone in the morning. Stay in your room and not trouble 
my father.” With those words he pulled a tiny talisman from out of his 
tunic and thrust it at her. “I no longer wish to have this. You are 
bound to me no more.” And then he turned and left her.

*********

Legolas had to get away from her. He strode out of the palace into the 
forest.

*She’d forgotten!* He could barely believe she’d said that. She’d as 
good as admitted her guilt right then. His father said she had simply 
stood by and done nothing as the Queen lay dying in agony. Several 
days after the Queen’s death, Thranduil had found the royal treasury 
chambers unlocked and Alede gone.

It contradicted everything he thought he knew about her. Yet she 
herself had admitted that she’d been too frightened to tell him of the 
event.

Pain squeezed his heart. His mother had been such a kind and gentle 
woman, yet possessing an inner strength that he’d admired. Watching 
her die had been the most difficult time of his life. He’d stayed with 
her endlessly until lack of food and sleep had caused him to collapse. 
Servants had carried him to his bed the day she died and he did not 
know of her passing until he’d awoke.

And now that his father lay dieing of the same illness… Legolas would 
have welcomed Alede’s gentle support. He remembered her calm strength 
while he’d fought his own demons. But now, by all appearances she was 
a traitor.

The hurt and the anger were too much to bear. Running blindly, he made 
for the deepest part of Mirkwood, hoping to find some solace, some 
comfort in the ancient trees.

*********

Alede burst into tears as soon as the servant closed the guest quarter 
door on her. She looked down at the tiny green bottle in her hand and 
clutched it to her heart. She’d made that for him…

Sobbing, she groped her way to the bed and threw herself upon it, 
crying so hard her whole body shook. She knew not how long she lay 
there, but an Elvin curse drifted up to her from the open balcony 
doors. Knowing that it was Legolas’ voice she heard, she got up and 
went to the balcony.

Alede watched Legolas stride out into the grounds beneath her balcony. 
He did not look up but she could see the expression on his face.

*He hurts as much as I do,* she thought, tears sliding silently down 
her face. She could not blame him. Thranduil had worked his poison 
with his own son. *And endangered himself in the process,* she 
thought.

She still knew nothing about the king’s illness. She had gotten no 
information from the Elfin hunters who’d brought her in. She did not 
know how to remedy the misunderstanding with Legolas. Or even know if 
it could be remedied.

*What had he meant by the King’s gold?* she thought. Had Thranduil 
proclaimed her a thief?

What ever story he told, she could go a long ways toward remedying it 
by proving her worth as a healer. She might not like Thranduil, but 
she certainly did not wish him ill.

Dashing tears away, Alede straightened her rumpled robes and walked 
out the door of her chambers. If she could at least speak to the 
Healer, she might make some progress on diagnosing the King. If they 
refused to let her see him, she at least might offer advise and 
perhaps win back Legolas’ confidence.

If she could not accomplish that, then they might as well lock her in 
the dungeon. For her life would hold little happiness if she could not 
have some small piece of Legolas’ affection.

*********

Legolas came back late, walking down the long corridor to his father’s 
rooms with dread. As he rounded a corner, he heard voices. They were 
kept at a whisper, yet both were obviously angry.

“But you are only treating the symptoms.” Legolas recognized Alede’s 
voice.

“What else would you have me do?” came the sharp reply from Mirkwood’s 
Healer, Lomomir.

“Peppermint tea is obviously not effective! If this illness is as 
serious as you say, then we must find the cause…”

Alede looked up and broke off as Legolas came into view.

“I can not believe,” Legolas looked at both of them angrily. “That 
arguing outside my father’s bedchamber is conducive to his health.” He 
glared at Alede. “I remember telling you to stay in your room until 
morning.”

“And I remember giving you no answer,” she replied, lifting her chin 
defiantly.

“Hardly surprising, since your word would mean little,” he shot back.

Alede flinched at his words but said nothing, though she was clearly 
hurt and angry.

Legolas turned to the ancient Healer. “How does my father do?”

The Elf bowed slightly. “He is sleeping now, your Highness.”

Alede cleared her throat and gave the Healer a pointed look. The Elf 
glanced at her uncomfortably before adding. “I gave him a draught 
which Lady Alede suggested. It was naught but simple village medicine 
and I suspect the King fell asleep from exhaustion and not from the 
draught.”

Alede scowled at Lomomir. “Simple village medicine or not, at least he 
rests comfortably now.” She turned to Legolas. “If I could but see the 
King when he awakens, then we might determine the cause of this and 
find a cure…”

Legolas grabbed her arm and escorted her down the corridor. “I do not 
think so. You’ll be leaving in the morning and …”

“How can you be so stubborn?” she exclaimed twisting out of his grasp. 
“The Healer is terrified, though he won’t admit it. He knows not what 
to do for your father’s illness, just as he didn’t know how to cure 
your mother. This is far more grave than I initially thought. Give me 
a chance! If you must cling to this belief that I am a thief, then do 
so. Have guards accompany me, but for pity sake, let me see you father 
and try to help him!”

Legolas shook his head. Exhaustion and worry had taken their toll on 
him. He wanted to trust her. He needed to, but how could he after what 
both she and his father had told him?

“When was the last time you slept?” Alede’s voice cut through the fog 
of his emotions, just as it had over a year ago. And it was just as 
kind, just as concerned.

“It matters not,” he answered, rubbing his forehead.

“It matters to me.”

Legolas looked into those fathom deep green eyes. He saw now the 
stains of fatigue beneath her eyes, the tightness of her lips with 
worry, and the red puffiness of her eyes.

“Will you at least let me tell my version of it?” she asked gently.

“You mean as apposed to my father’s ‘tale’ as you termed it?” he 
snapped.

Alede closed her eyes for a moment as if seeking patience. “A poor 
choice of words on my part,” she conceded. “Perhaps we could go 
somewhere,” she glanced around at an Elf who eyed them curiously.

Sighing with frustration, Legolas led the way to his chambers.

“Very well,” he said folding his arms across his chest once he had 
closed the door behind them. “Tell me your version.”

To her credit, Alede did not even glance around his rooms, but fixed 
her eyes directly on him. She quickly explained how the summons had 
come to Rivendell and she had been sent in place of the absent Elrond. 
Legolas had known all this, though he had not known that it was 
Elladan who had sent her. It was high praise that the Elfin lord had 
bid her go in his father’s stead.

“I had not the ability to make a spell horse then,” Alede continued. 
“So it took me many days to arrive. When I got here, I had no more 
than entered the room when your Mother expired. I had not even crossed 
over to her bed yet.”

Legolas frowned. His father had made it sound as if she’d been there 
for a good portion of the day.

“Go on,” he said after a moment.

She shrugged. “There is little else to tell. Your… the King and I 
argued, I’m afraid. Then I was thrown into the dungeons for three 
days…”

Legolas started. He had not heard that part of it, though it would be 
easy enough to confirm.

“I had hoped that your father would release me. I knew that he acted… 
out of grief…”

Legolas could see that she was choosing her words carefully and 
winched. How many times had he chosen cautious words around his 
father? How many times had he watched others do so as well?

“But after three days, I decided I’d been patient enough. I used a 
levitation spell to lift the keys from the Guardsmaster and let myself 
out.”

“And did you break into the treasury while you were at it?” he asked 
sharply.

“Very likely,” Alede said with a helpless shrug. “I became lost 
immediately and opened every door I came to. But I did not take 
anything and once I found the way out I have never returned.”

She stood there looking at him beseechingly. Legolas did not know what 
to think. It would be simple enough to prove her story by speaking 
with the dungeon guard and seeing the accounts from that time. But if 
he did that, he’d be proving his father a liar, or at least a 
manipulator.

*Which is why I left in the first place,* he reminded himself.

“Do you believe me?” she asked quietly.

He did not answer her directly. “Return to your chambers and do not 
disturb my father tonight. You are weary, as am I. We will speak again 
in the morning.”

Alede looked as if she might argue with him, but then her shoulders 
fell and she reluctantly bowed her head. “Good night, my Lord,” she 
said and slowly left the room.

*********

Here’s the beginning of the list for Original Characters. I’ll be 
adding to it as we go:

Lomomir: Mirkwood’s head Healer 





*** “ [ “ indicates the contents of a written letter. “ * ” indicates 
unspoken thought. ***

A/N: Thanks for all the reviews! Keep ‘em coming. You make my day!!! 
~Nebride





“The Caverns of Mirkwood”

Chapter 4

Which Witch?





[Legolas,

I am very sorry to hear about your father and hope that a cure is 
found soon. Your letter reached me here in Ithilien. I set out for 
your colony almost as soon as you left, knowing that you had no time 
to send them word.

All is well, though I am grieved to discover that ponies are as 
treacherous as horses. The healer here informs me that I will be able 
to walk normally again in a few days and that the swelling should be 
gone in a week or two.

Your friend,

Gimli]

*********

Alede slept little that night, exhausted as she was. But she woke well 
before dawn and prowled the room restlessly. She would not wait to 
speak with Legolas. Hurt had turned to anger overnight. She had 
trusted Legolas with her heart. That he believed the false accusations 
of Thranduil, felt like a betrayal. Surely after 2,000 years or so, 
Legolas must know what his father was like.

And every hour the King grew worse. The Healer had vaguely described 
his condition, a sharp pain in the belly that increased whenever he 
ate. What worried Alede the most though was its similarity to what had 
killed the Queen. She might not care for Thranduil, but she was 
determined to cure him if it was the last thing she did.

And considering the current attitude toward her in Mirkwood, it just 
might be the last thing she did.

Her decision made, she dressed quickly and strode down the hall 
carrying her staff with her. She did not expect the servants posted 
outside the King’s chambers to be cooperative. But she had worked 
herself into such a state of irritation that she hardly cared.

As she had predicted, the servants were not inclined to let her see 
the King. Alede dealt with them quickly and efficiently, leaving them 
slumped comfortably on the floor.

Entering the chamber, she found it dark and stifling. The curtains had 
been drawn across the balcony and windows and no breath of air 
entered. Smoke from a few candles moved lazily around the ceiling. 
Curtains had also been drawn about the King’s bed.

Alede wrinkled her nose as she entered. The air was thick with another 
smell besides the stale candle smoke. She stopped quickly, trying to 
identify it. It almost smelled like rats. But Elfin homes were much 
too clean to encourage rats.

Crossing to the balcony, she pushed the curtain open to let in the 
warm sweet air. Behind her a voice suddenly hissed, “What are you 
doing?”

Alede turned, startled. She had not seen the young she-Elf sitting on 
a chair by the King’s bed.

“I am a healer,” she explained quietly.

The woman rose quickly and tried to escort Alede from the room. “I 
know who you are,” she whispered. “And you are not welcome here.”

Alede detached her arm from the young she-Elf and looked her over. She 
was strikingly beautiful, with large limpid blue eyes and fine pale 
hair. Her face was delicately shaped as were the rest of her limbs. 
Dressed in a pale gown of sky blue, with clear jewels at her throat, 
she was the image of Elvish perfection.

Or almost perfection.

A scar marred the young Elf’s upper lip. It looked like a knife wound. 
But instead of making the Elfin girl ugly, it seemed to only increase 
her appeal. It lent a sultry pout to her otherwise innocent mouth.

“I intend to cure the King’s illness,” Alede said remembering the 
girl’s warning that she was not welcome. “And who are you?”

The girl obviously didn’t think Alede deserved and answer, but 
well-bred manners bid her reply. “I am called Unilyn and am friend to 
the family.”

Alede gave the woman a slight bow, as was the custom among Elfin 
women. That Unilyn did not return it irritated her. But Alede had 
other things to think about.

“How does the King this morning?”

But Unilyn would not answer. “You should not be here,” she repeated. 
“I’ll summon a guard if you don’t leave.”

Alede blew a lock of unruly hair away from her face. At any other 
time, she would have the patience to deal with this. But not today.

Taking the girl’s arm, Alede marched her to the door. “Since I have no 
intention of leaving, you’d better summon a guard.” Alede closed and 
locked the door on the elfin girl’s astonished face.

Turning back to the bedchamber, Alede saw that the curtain had been 
pushed aside.

“So, Witch… we meet again.”

*********

Princess Elvothien was a woman who loved many people, for she was of a 
kind and compassionate nature. But her self appointed duty to King 
Thranduil was a job she did not love and it took all of her compassion 
to complete. Never the less, she bore it with typical Elvin grace and 
did not complain.

At least not out loud.

She had come to the kingdom of Mirkwood at the tender age of a 
thousand years with a company of Elves from a small realm to the 
north. She’d fallen in love with Thranduil’s second youngest son 
Franduil and they had wed. At first she’d been so overjoyed in her 
marriage that she did not notice the peculiarities of her new father 
in law. King Thranduil was cultured and wise and that had seemed 
enough. But later, when her new husband had shown her the storerooms 
piled with treasure, she’d had some misgivings. Elvin Lords did not 
rule by the power of their gold, but by the power of their wisdom.

Over time, she began to realize that Thranduil was not so much a 
person of wisdom, but one of astonishing shrewdness. The slight 
misgivings she’d had at first turned into a mild dislike and wariness.

During the War of the Five Armies, when Thranduil had marched on the 
Lonely Mountain demanding dragon treasure, her feelings had turned 
almost to hatred. The King’s oldest son, the crown prince had died in 
that war and her own husband was suddenly elevated to the heir. It had 
been a hard blow. She had loved the crown prince as a brother and 
loved also that her husband had fewer duties. Now, Franduil’s time was 
spent much at court, with little time for his wife and small children.

So, when Elvothien had volunteered to bring the King his small 
breakfast and sit with him until mid day, she did so with a heavy 
heart. Thranduil knew of her dislike and taunted her whenever he 
could. She’d learned to keep her peace, for she loved her husband 
well, and did not wish to make his life more difficult than it already 
was.

Her only consolation was seeing Unilyn, who sat with the King from 
midnight until dawn. She was a sweet and gentle Elf.

So, on this particular morning, when Unilyn came running from the 
King’s chambers, Elvothien was not too astonished at her friend’s 
distress. Thranduil had a way of making people distressed.

“Elvothien,” Unilyn cried. “You must come quickly. The Witch is in the 
King’s chambers and I can find no one to remove her! The servants 
posted at his door appear to be asleep and do not respond!”

This news though unfortunate, was not too astonishing either. The 
brief impression Elvothien had received from Legolas was that of an 
unusual woman. Elvothien was far more inclined to believe Legolas’ 
original opinion of the healer than she was Thranduil’s. The Princess 
had been much grieved when she’d heard Thranduil’s exaggerated tale of 
his wife’s death. And even more grieved when she’d seen that Legolas 
had believed the story. Elvothien had been present at the Queen’s 
death and knew the young wizardess to be innocent.

Turning back to the hysterical Unilyn, Elvothien comforted her and 
told her to fetch Legolas, a duty she knew the Elf maiden would 
relish.

Elvothien turned back to the King’s door. Pulling out a ring of keys, 
she turned one in the lock and swung the door open. Raised voices 
greeted her and Elvothien hid an interested smile. Yes, this woman 
appeared to be quite unusual.

*********

“I was trained in the healing arts by Lord Elrond himself,” Alede said 
through clenched teeth. King Thranduil might be ill, but he’d lost 
none of his argumentative abilities or his snideness. Keeping her 
temper in check was becoming difficult. “In my travels I have gained 
even more wisdom to add to what I learned at Rivendell…”

“Yes, I have heard of your travels,” Thranduil said. His voice was 
harsh because of his sickness, but it had lost none of its authority. 
“You’ve consorted with Rangers…”

“Elladan and Elrohir were two of those Rangers,” she interjected.

“… and Dwarves,” Thranduil continued as if she hadn’t even mentioned 
the two honorable sons of Elrond. “What could you possible learn from 
Dwarves other than greed and strife?”

“Dwarves do not have the monopoly on greed,” Alede countered angrily.

“Have a care, Witch!” Thranduil snapped. “I could easily have you cast 
back into the dungeons. Despite all your fancy training, your father 
is a wizard. I have no love nor trust of wizards, even when they are 
as useless as your father. Worse yet, your mother was nothing more 
than a village witch.”

“My mother was a generous healer and she was half Elvin,” Alede said 
through her teeth.

“Polluted by her human half…”

Alede abruptly stood up. She knew that Thranduil could exchange 
insults with her all day and she would not sit and listen to her 
kindly parents profaned. She had to change tactics.

“I concede, my Lord,” she said. Thranduil’s eyes narrowed, suspecting 
trickery from her. Alede ignored the look. “You win. Everything you 
have said is true. I come from what you would consider a mixed and 
inferior lineage. I suppose that makes me unworthy to wait upon so 
great a King as yourself. But,” here she fixed him with a fierce look. 
“I ask you what options you have. Your Healer is terrified. He has no 
more idea of how to cure you than he did your wife.

“While, I’ll admit that I have no love for you,” Alede continued 
frankly. “I do have a great love for your people. The Elder are 
leaving Middle Earth, yet Mirkwood continues to be a haven for them. 
You never bore a ring of power, yet your realm has survived. I foresee 
that it will survive down through many ages. I would preserve that, if 
I could. And that means preserving you.”

“And what of your love for my son?” Thranduil asked. “How does that 
play into your decision.”

Alede quickly hid her alarm. Thranduil had wrangled much information 
out of her during their argument. Had she revealed too much or did he 
guess?

Choosing to deliberately misunderstand him, Alede answered casually, 
“Of course our friendship colors my decision as well. During Legolas’ 
recuperation I came to have great respect for him and I would not wish 
to see him grieve.

“So,” she changed the subject as quickly as she could. “I intend to 
stay here and to find a cure for you. Lomomir’s peppermint tea will 
not solve this. If you continue in your wish to be rid of me, then I 
suggest the quickest way will be to cooperate. I will leave the moment 
you are well.”

Having finished her speech, Alede sat down decisively in the chair 
beside the bed and folded her arms across her chest. Behind her she 
heard a small sound like that of muffled laughter hastily smothered. 
Turning, she saw a tall, graceful she-Elf standing across the room. 
Alede had not even heard her enter.

Thranduil glanced sharply at the she-Elf. “You find this situation 
amusing do you Daughter?”

“No indeed, my Lord,” the stately woman replied, all trace of laughter 
gone now. “I find nothing about your illness amusing.”

“Hmm… You speak the truth Daughter, yet you leave much unsaid.” He 
turned his piercing glance to Alede. She forced herself not to flinch. 
King Thranduil stare had an intensity she had never encountered 
before.

“My son’s wife, Princess Elvothien,” he said by way of introduction. 
“At this moment she is thinking that I have met my match in 
stubbornness.” His gaze flicked to his daughter-in-law before 
returning to Alede. “Have I, Witch?”

Alede knew to give in now and respond politely would gain her nothing. 
Settling her arms comfortably across her chest, she replied calmly and 
sternly, “I am fully prepared to sit here until the fifth age. 
However, I doubt that you will last so long. Perhaps I will learn 
something of your symptoms merely by observing you over the next 
millennium or so.”

Thranduil suddenly threw his head back and gave a shout of laughter. 
Alede could not have been more surprised. Her emotion quickly turned 
to concern when the King clutched his belly, though. The spasm soon 
passed and he turned to Alede again.

“You have great tenacity, Witch. I admit that.” His imperious glance 
swept to the Princess. “Leave me and fetch my sons. But do not bid 
them enter until I am done with my conversation here.”

Alede, trying to hide her astonishment, waited until Elvothien left 
the room. “Now then,” she said in her most business like voice. 
“Describe to me the symptoms.”

*********

Because Legolas was so deeply in conversation with Unilyn he did not 
look up when the door of his father’s chambers opened. The servants 
had mysteriously woken up and Elvothien and his brother Franduil stood 
across from them, but he no longer noticed their presence.

Legolas had forgotten just how fragile and beautiful the young Unilyn 
was. He’d been away so long. They’d known each other since they were 
children and she’d always had a demur sweetness that he’d found 
appealing. After the unfortunate incident that had left her scarred, 
she’d become even more reserved.

He had not forgotten her support after his mother’s death however. 
She’d been the only one who had been able to pull him out of his 
grief. He would always be grateful to her and carried much affection 
toward her.

She clung now to his arm, her delicate fingers warm against the fabric 
of his sleeve.

“Legolas, seeing your father like this is so painful to me. I can not 
imagine how you are bearing it.” Her voice was soft, like a caress.

He placed a hand over hers, “As always your friendship brings me great 
comfort.”

Unilyn opened her mouth to say more but Elvothien interrupted as Alede 
swept out of the King’s chambers.

“How does his Majesty do, Lady Alede? Do you know what ails him?”

“Not yet, but I will begin searching for an answer now. He has given 
me permission to treat him.”

Legolas looked up in surprise. “He has? This is a most unusual change 
of heart.”

“Yes, he has.”

Even more surprising to Legolas was that Alede did not look at him 
when she spoke; instead she addressed only Elvothien and Franduil. 
“The King would see his sons now,” Alede continued, still not looking 
at Legolas. “And if you would permit me, Lady Elvothien, I would speak 
with you.”

“Of course,” Elvothien answered and Legolas caught a speculative look 
in her gaze as she turned away from him. Before he could say anything, 
both women had moved away.

“Excuse me Unilyn,” he said, irritation making his voice sharper than 
he intended. Casting a troubled glance at Alede’s retreating form, he 
followed Franduil into his father’s chambers.

*********

*I should have known!* Alede berated herself. *Of course Legolas would 
have someone!* That his affections fell upon that simpering, doe eyed 
creature hanging on his arm was more than Alede could endure.

Remembering the Princess at her side, Alede tried to compose herself. 
Before she could speak however Unilyn had fallen into step with them. 
Alede looked at the young Elf’s beauty with new loathing.

“How did you persuade the King to accept you?” Unilyn asked. Her 
suspicious tone indicated that perhaps Alede had bewitched him.

The wizardess bit back a rude remark and instead answered as politely 
and vaguely as she could. “His illness is grave and will require my 
every skill. Now if you please, Lady Unilyn, I need speak with her 
Highness in private.” She gave the young she-Elf a courteous bow, 
though she would rather have given her a kick. Unilyn was not pleased, 
but turned and left them.

Alede glanced at the Princess and found a sympathetic look on her 
face. Disconcerted, Alede started walking down the hall. Did everyone 
there know of her affection for Legolas? How many did he tell or did 
she simply guess?

“Lady Elvothien, would you be so kind as to take me to the kitchens?”

“Of course. You think that it was something he ate?”

“I know not. If he were human, I would suspect many things. But since 
he is Elvin…” Alede trailed off. “Elves do not become ill. This is 
most worrisome.”

The kitchens were a waste of time, as Alede suspected they might be. 
Elves were notorious for their fastidiousness. There was no sign of 
rancid meat or anything else spoiled. Alede was certain after speaking 
with the cooks that there probably never had been.

She rubbed her forehead in frustration. The King’s symptoms were odd; 
a sharp pain in the belly when he ate. So severe in fact, that he was 
not eating at all now. And the rest of the time, only a mild ache and 
slight nausea. There were no other symptoms what so ever and he had 
been ill for four weeks now.

If he were human, Alede might suspect bleeding of the stomach. But the 
mild diet of bread and water that he’d been eating would have allowed 
that particular ailment to heal. A tumor was a possibility…

“But Elves do not have these problems,” Alede said out loud. Realizing 
she was speaking to herself, Alede apologized to the Princess who’d 
accompanied her so patiently.

“Do not apologize,” Elvothien said smoothly. Speaking with one of the 
servants she led Alede to a shaded balcony. Bread, fruit and cheese 
were brought to them. “It is a bit early for lunch, but I think that 
you have not yet eaten, have you?”

Alede shook her head and sat down gratefully. “Thank you. If only the 
King could eat so well.”

“You are very worried, are you not?”

For some reason Alede felt she could trust Princess Elvothien. She was 
very open for an Elf and Alede found herself liking her.

“You were here when the Queen died, weren’t you? I remember your face. 
Will you tell me everything you remember about her death and her 
illness? It may help.”

“Would not the Healer Lomomir be a better source of information for 
you?” Elvothien asked.

“I…” Alede shook her head. “No. There is something amiss here, 
something that I am not seeing. I would rather hear what you 
remember.”

“Very well,” Elvothien paused as she arranged her thoughts. “She was 
ill barely seven weeks before she succumbed. Her symptoms were exactly 
the same as the King’s though more sever from the onset. Her Lady in 
Waiting died only a week or so after…”

“Her Lady in Waiting?” Alede asked startled. “I did not know that 
anyone else had been ill.” She furrowed her brow. *Was this illness 
contagious?* “Did Lomomir ever come to any conclusion about the 
illness?”

Elvothien shook her head. “It was thought at the time that the Queen 
and her Lady had consumed spoiled wine. For they became ill shortly 
after partaking of wine.”

“Wine?” Alede was even more puzzled now. “Was the wine inspected?”

“No, for we did not think of it until much later. It came from the 
spoils of an Orc raid and was of ancient but excellent vintage. We 
wondered later if it had somehow become contaminated while in the 
Orc’s caverns.”

“But surely the Queen and her Lady did not drink the entire cask? 
Something must have become of it. Could it still be in the wine 
cellars?”

Elvothien shook her head. “I think not, for Lomomir searched for it 
later.”

“Hmm…” Alede thought this over for a while. Wine did not easily spoil 
and when it did, it became unpalatable. No one would drink it and if 
they did the effects would be instantaneous. The symptoms would not 
build for weeks as this illness did. And if the wine had been poisoned 
or contaminated, again the symptoms would have been immediate, fading 
after time.

Intending to ask another question, Alede was astonished by the words 
that came out of her mouth. “Unilyn is very lovely. How long have she 
and Legolas been in love?”

Elvothien was as surprised by the question as Alede was. Embarrassed, 
the young wizardess could think of no way to back out of her blunder.

“I do not know that Legolas is in love,” Elvothien finally said a 
sympathetic smile on her face. “They have been friends since childhood 
and became closer after Unilyn’s unfortunate experience.”

Alede was interested in spite of herself. “What happened? How did she 
become scarred?”

“Orcs,” Elvothien answered. “Unilyn’s family was traveling out of 
Mirkwood to Rivendell but they were attacked by a band of Orcs. Unilyn 
was taken captive and the rest of her family was killed. It was 
several days before we learned of it. A war party went out and Legolas 
joined it, though his father had forbidden him. He was not yet come of 
age and had not sufficient skills to ride with the warriors. But 
Unilyn was his childhood friend and he apparently felt he must go.

“It was Legolas who found her in the dank caves,” Elvothien continued. 
“And though it was the other warriors who slayed the Orcs, Unilyn has 
always praised Legolas for rescuing her.”

“Did they torture her?” Alede asked quietly.

“Yes, for many days.” Elvothien gaze was unfocused as she talked of 
the painful memories. “Unilyn did not speak for months and once she 
did, she would say nothing of her experience. Her wounds festered 
despite the excellent care she received and the scar is one result. 
There are many others. She was terrified of going outside and even 
venturing out onto a balcony was too much for her for many years. Only 
recently has she been able to wander the grounds. But she does not 
venture too far into the forest. And she will not even consider the 
idea of traveling outside of Mirkwood.”

“How awful for her,” Alede said with genuine sympathy. “No wonder she 
looks at Legolas with such adoration. He must have been her 
salvation.”

“Yes, they were very close. But I think they did not become lovers 
until after his mother’s death. Unilyn was of great comfort to him. 
She rarely left his side. But Legolas has always been restless. I do 
not know if they are lovers still. And frankly I have never thought 
them suitable for each other. I love them both, but they are too 
different.”

Alede digested this bit of information. Legolas had not seemed 
troubled by their differences when the young Unilyn had been hanging 
on his arm.

Alede could feel genuine sympathy for the Elfin girl, despite her 
jealousy. What horrors she must have endured at the hands of the Orcs. 
And she was glad that Legolas had someone to comfort him during his 
time of grief.

“The wine that the Queen drank came from that raid on the Orcs,” 
Elvothien added almost as an afterthought. “They found many spoils 
there when they found Unilyn. Much of it was our own goods, some of it 
that of Dwarves or Men.”

Alede nodded thoughtfully, considering all that she had heard. She 
asked a few more questions about the Queen’s previous health and 
spirits, but learned nothing helpful. After Alede had finished eating, 
she knew she must speak with the Healer, despite his obvious dislike.

*********

“It is dark times my sons when we must accept the aid of a witch…”

Legolas was alarmed by how pale his father looked. He seemed to have 
worsened considerably since he saw him last night.

“Father, rest. We will speak of this at another time.”

“Nay,” Thranduil said, griping both his son’s hands painfully. “We 
will speak of it now, while I am still able.” Legolas and Franduil 
exchanged alarmed looks across the bed from each other.

“Watch her,” Thranduil said wearily. “She has some other agenda here. 
And she bears great prejudice against our people…”

“Father, are you sure? She expressed no prejudice to me…”

“You must learn to look for these things,” Thranduil gasped. Legolas 
could see that talking was wearing him out. But the King continued. 
“Her grandmother was Elvin and left for the West when Alede’s mother 
was only a child. Alede bears our race ill because she does not 
understand the sea longing. She sees it only as abandonment.”

Legolas furrowed his brow. This was another thing that Alede had never 
mentioned. He’d had no idea that she was one quarter Elvin. Never the 
less, his father’s deathly pallor worried him. “Father, I really think 
you should rest. Or at least try to eat something.”

Franduil handed over the tray and the King eyed it as he might eye a 
poisonous snake. But he reluctantly took a small piece of bread and 
began to eat.

“What were you saying about Alede’s agenda?” Franduil asked.

“She is a wizard and they are not to be trusted,” Thranduil paused to 
take another tiny bite. “Beware her voice. Wizards can snare the 
unknowing with their voice…”

Legolas shook his head. “Alede does not have such skill father. Only 
Saruman had that power. Alede is but a minor wizard, barely out of her 
apprenticing.”

“She is far more powerful than you think, my son and she harbors some 
secret intent.”

“If so,” Franduil began. “Then we can not trust her to heal you. 
Perhaps it is best that we send her away.”

“No, I…” Thranduil broke off as a spasm of pain shook him. He nearly 
doubled over and clutched at his belly.

Legolas turned and shouted for a servant to fetch Lomomir.

“I am convinced…” Thranduil gasped between spasms of pain. “That she 
means to heal me. Do not… send her away…” He doubled over again. “It 
is you, Legolas… that I fear for…”

Legolas clutched his father’s shoulders helplessly, feeling his 
father’s body spasm with the intense pain. He desperately wished there 
was something he could do.

The Healer, Lomomir burst into the room and both sons stepped back out 
of the way. Lomomir carefully dosed the king with a strong tincture, 
but it had no effect. Legolas watched as draught after draught was 
tried and nothing eased the King’s pain. He felt tears of helplessness 
sliding down his face and stepped away from the bed in an attempt to 
get his own emotions under control. To see his proud father like this…

Turning to the waiting servant, Legolas said breathlessly, “Fetch Lady 
Alede at once. Hurry!” he added.

*********

QUESTION FOR YOU: How am I doing on the “Mary Sue” meter? I took the 
“test” just to see, and so far not too bad! Hopefully, I’m not making 
anyone gag! None of these characters are modeled after me, so at least 
I haven’t committed that crime! *grins* But I’m trying to make Alede 
interesting and unusual with out “overdoing it”. Am I doing OK so far? 
(BTW Unilyn is intentionally “overdone” don’t take her too seriously! 
;) All reviews (criticism too) are welcome and very helpful! You guys 
keep me going! Thanks so much! ~Nebride

*********

List of Original Characters:

Lomomir: Mirkwood’s Healer

Unilyn: A young she-Elf, probably about Legolas’ age. She is Legolas’ 
former lover.

Prince Franduil: King Thranduil’s second son. He is now the crown 
prince, due to the oldest son’s death in the War of Five Armies.

Princess Elvothien: Wife of Prince Franduil and sister-in-law to 
Legolas. 

---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
----------

*** “ [ “ indicates the contents of a written letter. “ * ” indicates 
unspoken thought. ***





“The Caverns of Mirkwood”

Chapter 5

Judge a Book by its Cover





[Dear Gimli,

My father worsens and I am fearful for him. There is so much unsaid 
between he and I, so much that cannot be said. I wish I knew how to 
help him.

Legolas

P.S. The swelling on what, my friend? Or do I dare ask?]

*********

Alede ran into the King’s chambers, carrying her satchel.

Prince Franduil sat on the far side of the bed, his face as pale as a 
ghost’s. Lomomir leaned over the thrashing form of the King and 
Legolas paced frantically at the end of the bed. Alede spared one 
glance at Legolas’ desolate features before crossing over to the far 
side of the bed. There had been tears in the young prince’s eyes.

“Excuse me, your Highness,” Alede said, pushing between Franduil and 
the bed. She looked across at Lomomir. “What has happened and what has 
been done for him?”

“He took but a few swallows of bread,” Lomomir said and Alede saw that 
the Healer’s animosity toward her was gone. He was as helpless and 
frightened for his King as the two princes were. “The spasms of pain 
began only a few moments later.”

Alede looked down at the King in alarm. He was writhing in agony, 
churning the bedclothes with his limbs. “Has the pain always been this 
sever?”

“This is the worst I’ve seen it,” Prince Franduil said.

Alede glanced at him sharply. The Elfin prince sounded as if he was in 
shock. She griped his shoulder briefly. “Do not give up hope, your 
Highness.”

“Now, what…” she began.

“Hope!” Prince Franduil suddenly burst out. “What hope is there?! Look 
at him! What do you hope to accomplish, Witch!?”

“I hope to accomplish his cure,” Alede answered calmly, ignoring the 
Prince’s hysteria. “Now, Lomomir… please tell me what you’ve given 
him.”

“A decoction of Meadowsweet, Lemon Balm and Fennel.”

Alede nodded. “Any Slippery Elm?”

The Healer shook his head. “It does not grow in these parts. I have 
never used it.”

“I have some. However, right now we must stop the pain. He’s in 
agony.” Opening her satchel she took out a small dark bottle and 
tipped the contents into a goblet of water. “Now, if we can just get 
this down him…”

It took all four of them to get the potion down Thranduil’s throat. He 
curled into a fetal position when he wasn’t thrashing, and when he was 
thrashing it was all they could do to hold him. Alede’s robes were 
torn in the process and she received a handsome bruise on her cheek, 
but she hardly cared. As the opiate slowly eased Thranduil’s 
convulsions he seemed to breath more easily.

Alede started to speak with Lomomir when the King suddenly grabbed the 
front of her robes and dragged her down so that she was face to face 
with him.

“Ahh,” she gasped as he tightened his grip and the cloth threatened to 
choke her.

Thranduil said nothing, but the threat in his eyes was unmistakable. 
He glanced at Legolas and then fixed her again with that cold gaze. 
“Do not… bewitch… my son,” he whispered.

Alede nodded as well as she could. Then with difficulty she pried his 
fingers loose and took his hand in hers. “I am not here to bewitch 
anyone. I am here to help you.”

Thranduil closed his eyes and with a sigh suddenly relaxed onto the 
bed, flinging her hand away. Alede straightened up and irritably 
yanked at her robes, pulling them back into place.

*Ungrateful…* she thought furiously at the King. *Don’t you care that 
I’m trying to save your life? I mean Legolas no harm!*

“What did you give him?” Legolas asked, breaking into her angry 
thoughts.

“Extract of poppy.”

Franduil let out a curse and Legolas nearly shouted. “Extract of 
poppy? Do you know how dangerous that is?”

“Of course I know how dangerous it is,” she exclaimed turning to him. 
Her robe caught on the edge of the bed and with a furious gesture 
Alede pulled it off, revealing her rumpled riding clothes beneath. She 
threw the robe to the floor. If she’d been alone she might have 
stomped on it, as well, so foul was her mood. As it was, she settled 
for glaring at Legolas.

“Did you learn nothing about me, during the time that I cared for 
you?”

Legolas folded his arms across his chest. “Not nearly as much as I 
might have if you’d been frank with me.”

“Oh curse it, Legolas! You’re as stubborn as your father and just as 
unforgiving.”

Legolas started to respond but help came to Alede from an unexpected 
quarter.

“My Lord,” Lomomir interrupted quietly. “I have used laudanum before. 
And while it is true that it can kill and enslave, Alede did not over 
dose him. It is well that he is not in pain now.”

Alede let out a surprised breath. “Thank you.” Turning back to the 
King, she slid the blankets down. “Have you palpitated his stomach?”

“Yes, but I found nothing…” Lomomir began.

“There is a solid mass,” Alede said moving her fingers carefully over 
the King’s belly.

The Healer looked astonished. “There is? I swear there was nothing the 
other day…”

“Then it has grown quickly,” Alede said with worry. Across the bed 
from her Lomomir looked equally troubled.

“I have seen tumors in Men, but never in Elves,” she said. 
Straightening up again she fixed Lomomir with a stern glance. “I need 
several things, Lomomir. I will prepare some Slippery Elm for him and 
if marsh mallow root can be obtained, I would like some boiled and 
given to him. I need to examine the historical records of the court to 
see if anything like this has ever occurred before. Also I need to 
know if Thranduil’s line is pure.” She paused and looked down at the 
King. “I need answers.”

*********

Alede strode into her rooms and dumped her robes over a chair. She 
caught a glimpse of herself in the tall mirror in the corner and 
stopped for a moment stunned.

She looked nothing like the shy wizardess who’d tended an injured 
Elfin prince a year and a half ago. Her face was furrowed with worry 
and her mouth turned down in sadness. But there was resolve in her 
eyes and stubborn tenacity. She’d find a cure for Thranduil. She 
doubted that he’d thank her for it, but she’d find it for her own 
piece of mind. And for the desperate look she’d seen in Legolas’ eyes.

Turning her back on the mirror she opened her saddlebags to get fresh 
clothing, but hesitated when she looked inside.

The contents had been moved. Frowning, she looked closer, thinking 
that they had shifted during her ride to Mirkwood. But, no… the 
contents had been rummaged.

Glancing up, she quickly surveyed the room. No one was there but 
herself. She quickly inspected the bathing chamber. It too was empty.

Puzzled, Alede went back to the saddlebag. Nothing was missing…

*How odd,* she thought.

Reaching inside she pulled out clean clothing and changed, then 
re-braided her hair. Her struggles with Thranduil had sent tendrils 
spiraling around her face. Looking in the mirror, she thought she 
looked a little more presentable. A tunic of dark green fell to her 
thighs and beneath it she wore a shirt of light green with loose 
leggings. She tucked the leggings into her riding boots and tossed her 
heavy braid over her shoulders.

She paused at the door before locking it with a spell.

*Who would search my bag and why?*

*********

Legolas walked into the Hall of Records wearily. Lomomir had tried to 
get him to rest, but he could not. His thoughts were in too much 
turmoil. Sleep was impossible.

The hall was brightly lit and as he entered, the Record’s Keeper moved 
toward him and bowed.

“How is the King, your Highness?”

Legolas hesitated before answering. He did not wish to alarm the whole 
kingdom. “He is sleeping comfortably,” he answered finally. “I am 
looking for the Healer, Alede. I thought she had come here…”

The Record’s Keeper nodded toward the back of the vast hall. “She is 
at the study desk.”

Legolas wound his way through the ceiling high shelves. Each one 
contained hundreds of small shelves and pigeonholes. In each rested a 
single book or scroll, neatly organized.

He finally found her at the very back. A scroll was unrolled on the 
desk before her and her forehead rested in one hand. She sat so still 
that Legolas thought she might have dozed off during her study.

“Surely, you can find a more comfortable place to sleep,” he said 
quietly. His anger with her was gone.

Alede gasped and looked up.

“I did not hear you approach,” she said placing a hand over her heart. 
“And I was not asleep,” she added with irritation.

Legolas pulled out a chair and sat down across from her. Alede glanced 
up at him and narrowed her eyes.

“If you came here to criticize or accuse, you may leave. I have not 
the patience for it now.”

Legolas fixed her with a critical eye and leaned back in his chair, 
arms folded across his chest. “Who would have thought that you’d have 
such a temper?” he remarked evenly.

“And who’d have thought the same of you?” she shot back.

But Legolas was too worried to fight with her. In truth, he didn’t 
even know if he doubted her or not anymore. Instead he merely gave her 
a weary glance. “You did not tell me that you are Elvish.”

He had made the statement without accusation. But Alede irritably set 
the scroll she’d been studying down with a slap of her hand. “I have 
not told you many things. There has not been time. I never knew my 
Grandmother.” She shrugged. Obviously this subject was not as 
important to her as Thranduil had implied. “I have no Elvish traits. 
My heritage has never seemed important to me. Should I have recited my 
entire history to you?”

“No, just the pertinent facts.”

Alede sighed and rubbed her forehead. “Yes, you’re right, as I have 
already admitted. I should have told you of my previous visit here. 
But I was afraid…”

“That I’d act as I have been,” he finished regretfully.

“Yes,” she said simply.

“I…” he paused, searching for words. “My father and I have ever been 
at odds. I don’t know why I took his words to heart so much this 
time.”

“Perhaps,” Alede’s tone softened. “Because you don’t want him to die 
and needed him to speak the truth.”

Legolas looked up at her and saw that her anger was gone.

“I’m sorry,” she said softly. “I should not have said the things I did 
of your father. He and I have no great love for each other, as you 
have seen. But I truly wish to heal him. And in my own way, I respect 
him.”

“I realize that.” And he did. His father’s manipulative words were 
fading from his mind. He’d questioned the Guardsmaster and checked the 
treasury records. Alede had not stolen anything.

But at the same time, his father had stated a fact. The treasury doors 
had been found open. In his usual manner, Thranduil had exaggerated 
the truth, leaving out just enough information to mislead the 
listener. Legolas did not even think the King knew what he did. The 
habit had been engrained over centuries of survival in an Orc infested 
land.

Legolas had to let his anger with his father go. He could not change 
him and he loved him despite his faults. Right now he needed Alede’s 
gentle strength. He remembered her calm while he had been wounded and 
he needed that now. “How can I help?” he asked. “How can I aid you? I 
would not have my father die. I know what he is like, but I do not 
wish him to die.” He looked at her forlornly, silently begging her to 
ease his worry and to forgive him.

“Do you read Quenya?”

“Of course. I speak it, as well.”

Alede quickly held up a hand. “No, that won’t be necessary. It’s a 
beautiful language, but my knowledge of it is limited to vague remarks 
about hello and goodbye. Beyond that, I’m hopelessly lost.”

Despite his fatigue, Legolas chuckled. He’d forgotten her dry humor.

Alede handed him a pile of scrolls across the desk. “Look for any 
mention of an ailment similar to your father’s. These are from the 
second age.”

Legolas glanced up in surprise. “You’re going back quite a ways.”

“Yes, this is…” Alede shook her head. “There is something not right. 
Something that I am missing…” She left the sentence unfinished and 
with a worried frown Legolas pulled the first of the ancient scrolls 
off of the pile.

They spent the entire day in the Hall of Records. Legolas occasionally 
left to check in on his father. Alede did so every hour. There was 
little change. Though Thranduil was able to sip the thick mixture of 
Slippery Elm and Marsh Mallow that Alede had prepared for him. At 
least he was getting some nourishment and Alede said that was 
encouraging.

The extract of poppy kept Thranduil quiet and free of pain. But it 
also made his mind so fogged that Legolas could not even speak with 
him. He returned to the Hall each time more hopeless and suspected 
that once the laudanum was discontinued the symptoms would return.

When Alede was not giving him an update on his father, she said 
nothing at all. Legolas knew that she still stung from their 
arguments.

*I have hurt her again,* he thought with a sigh. But his temper had 
been frayed by his father’s illness. He fervently wished he’d checked 
with the Guardsmaster before making his accusations, but it was too 
late to take them back. The damage had already been done.

*Not that she backed down at all.* He smiled remembering the fire in 
her eyes when she’d whipped her robes off and threw them on the floor. 
*Feisty little thing. Perhaps she has a little Dwarvish in her as 
well.*

When he had finished with the scrolls Alede had given to him, Legolas 
returned them to the Record Keeper and went to wander among the 
shelves. He came to a section that seemed familiar, especially one 
shelf in particular, but it was empty. He looked around at the tidy 
shelves, all of them full.

“Record Keeper, what book belonged here? Alede and I have not been in 
this section yet, but one is missing. I thought that no records could 
be removed.”

The ancient Keeper joined Legolas, quickly scanning the shelves. Alede 
had put down the book she was reading and joined them, looking over 
Legolas’ shoulder.

“Ah…” the Record Keeper suddenly said after scrutinizing the shelves. 
He straightened up with a fond laugh. “You of all people should 
remember that book, young Prince. For it was your favorite as a child. 
I seem to remember many a rainy afternoon that you’d bring in your 
small friends and read to them.”

“Of course,” Legolas cried, his heart lifting for the moment as he 
remembered happier times. “What was that book called? I used to 
frighten myself so badly with it, I could not sleep. Yet, I could not 
leave it alone.”

“Demons and Other Denizens of Darkness,” the Record Keeper supplied 
the name of the book.

“It does not sound like a particularly cheerful book,” Alede remarked 
dryly.

Legolas chuckled. “No. But I greatly enjoyed terrifying the girls with 
it. Once I got over my own fear, I dragged as many of my young friends 
and sisters down here as I could, so that they might have nightmares 
as well.”

Alede laughed softly and turned away, going back to her research.

“But where is the book now?” Legolas wondered.

The Record Keeper shook his head. “I know not. Nothing is to be 
removed from the Hall. I will search for it and let your Highness know 
when I have found it.”

Legolas shook his head slowly, “Nay, it is not important.”

*********

Alede thanked the Record Keeper as she wearily walked out of the Hall. 
The Elf inclined his head, but said nothing.

Alede sighed. She had not expected to win many hearts when she came to 
Mirkwood and was not disappointed. Despite her desire to heal the 
King, no one wished her there.

*At least Legolas has forgiven me,* she thought. He was still a bit 
distant, which was painful considering their parting at Helm’s Deep. 
But he had unthawed enough to ask about her work at Orthanc. She’d 
told him of the council that had been held. Older wizards had 
destroyed the staff of the dark wizard Sildair and the Watch Wood had 
been awoken from its spell. The greatest damage had been to the Ents. 
Sildair had lured them away with a rumor of Entwives and their 
disappointment at being deceived had been heartbreaking for Alede.

Brushing an unruly lock of hair from her face, Alede tucked the book 
she carried under her arm more securely. The Record Keeper had allowed 
her to take it, though he had not been pleased. It was the journal of 
a Healer from the first age. She thought it looked promising and 
wished she’d discovered it earlier in the day. Now, however, it was 
nearly midnight and she could barely stay awake. She’d stop in to 
check on Thranduil and then take the book to bed with her. She could 
at least get started with the difficult translation. Perhaps Legolas 
would help her with it in the morning. She’d sent him off to bed hours 
ago.

As she reached the top of the back staircase to the King’s chambers, 
Alede heard a noise in the vast room below her. It sounded like the 
clang of some small metallic object dropped on the stone floor. 
Glancing over the railing, she could see nothing. The room below was 
primarily dark and completely silent.

She felt a breath of movement behind her, but before she could turn, 
an object hit her hard in the center of the back and she fell heavily 
against the rail. For a second she thought she’d tumble down the 
steps, but quick reflexes caught the railing. She lost her hold on the 
book however, which tumbled to the room far below. Alede cursed and 
started to straighten up, when she was hit in the back again. The 
railing cracked and with a splintering sound, broke. Alede flailed 
wildly, trying to grab something solid, but her hands caught at 
nothing and she tumbled out into space just as the book had.

Her last thought as the floor rushed to meet her was that the book’s 
binding had burst and its pages were scattered everywhere.

*********

A/N: I have done some study of medicinal herbs, but I hope that no one 
takes any of these “remedies” seriously. Some of them I mention merely 
because of their historic value, because they were once widely used 
but have since fallen out of favor. Extract of poppy is a good 
example. It was once widely used in “olden times” as a pain killer 
before people realized how dangerous it was. I certainly do NOT 
recommend any ingredients from the poppy plant. When Lomomir said that 
it can “kill and enslave,” he was right. Overdose and addiction are 
the most common side effects of opiates.

Besides, hopefully none of you ever suffer from Thranduil’s illness. 
If you do, call me and I’ll whip up a remedy for you. lol :D

List of Original Characters:

Lomomir: Mirkwood’s Healer

Unilyn: A young she-Elf, probably about Legolas’ age. She is Legolas’ 
former lover.

Prince Franduil: King Thranduil’s second son. He is now the crown 
prince, due to the oldest son’s death in the War of Five Armies.

Princess Elvothien: Wife of Prince Franduil and sister-in-law to 
Legolas. 



---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
---------- *** “ [ “ indicates the contents of a written letter. “ * ” 
indicates unspoken thought. ***





“The Caverns of Mirkwood”

Chapter 6

Too Many Questions





[Legolas,

I am very alarmed by your letter. If you wish it, I will travel back 
to Minas Tirith and ask King Aragorn to come to your aid. He is an 
outstanding healer.

Let me hear from you soon my friend and next time send a different 
hawk. This one sh… messed all over my sleeve when it arrived.

Your friend,

Gimli

P.S. And if you can not guess what is swollen, then there is less in 
that Elvin head of yours than I thought!]

*********

“Get Lomomir,” Legolas shouted at the servant who had found Alede.

She lay in a small pool of her own blood, with the broken remains of 
the old staircase around her. Her skin was cold as ice and Legolas 
cursed himself for leaving her when he had. She had obviously been 
exhausted and had fallen.

She stirred and moaned.

“Alede?” *Please let her be all right!*

Her eyes fluttered open and Legolas breathed a sigh of relief. “Don’t 
move,” he instructed. “Lomomir is coming.”

“What…happened…?”

“You must have tripped on the stairs and the railing broke.”

Alede’s brow furrowed. She tried to speak. “…push…”

“Push? Push what?”

She shook her head and then moaned in pain. “Someone … pushed,” she 
said trying again. “Someone… pushed me.”

“Alede, why…” he began disbelievingly, but Lomomir hurried into the 
room, interrupting him.

Legolas watched with concern as the healer carefully examined her.

“The blood is from a head wound,” Lomomir informed him. “She is 
concussed, but there are no broken bones. She will heal, but the wound 
will be quit tender for several days.”

Legolas nodded. “I’ll take her to her room.”

“I’ll prepare some willow bark tea for her and bathe the wound. Then 
she should sleep.” The Healer sighed. “This is an unfortunate time for 
an accident.”

“Yes,” Legolas agreed. Early morning sunlight shone in through the 
tall windows, illuminating the blood in her bright hair. Legolas 
wondered how long Alede had lain on that cold floor before the servant 
found her. Had she been in the Hall all night?

Lifting her arm, he slipped it over his shoulder.

“What… are you doing?” Alede mumbled, trying clumsily to get away from 
him.

“Sit still. I will carry you back to your room.”

“No… I… I’ll walk.”

“Alede! You can barely sit up. You certainly can not walk.”

She pushed away and only his quick reflexes saved her from toppling 
over onto the floor again.

“I’m too… heavy,” she slurred.

Legolas snorted, a useful sound he’d learned from Gimli. “I’m not 
quite as fragile as you apparently think I am. I can carry one dazed 
wizardess.”

“I didn’t mean…” she began, but Legolas interrupted her.

“However, if you would put your arm around my shoulder instead of 
planting it in the middle of my chest, it would help greatly.”

“Oh bother…” Alede mumbled and passed out once again.

*********

Legolas finished tugging the sleep shirt down over Alede’s head and 
carefully tucked her into the bed. Lomomir had finished dressing her 
wound and had given her a sleep draught. But Legolas had waited until 
the Healer had left before undressing her. He remembered Alede’s 
shyness.

Once again he reached for the delicate chain around her neck. He’d 
tried to remove the locket earlier, but she’d pushed his hand away. 
Carefully, he slipped it over her head. Then, out of curiosity he 
opened it.

And immediately wished he hadn’t.

“Oh Alede…” he sighed. Inside lay a single strand of his own hair, 
carefully wound into a shining coil. Snapping the locket shut, he laid 
it carefully on a table beside the bed. Pulling a chair over beside 
her sleeping form, Legolas sat down and gazed at her.

“What am I to do about you, girl?” he whispered. Leaning his elbows on 
the arms of the chair, he placed his head in his hands. The last 
several days had been too much. Not only did he face the possibility 
of his father’s death, but all the conflicting emotions that went with 
it. He was exhausted despite the few hours of sleep he’d caught the 
night before.

There were also matters of state to contend with. He’d also been 
assisting his brother Franduil with the daily affairs of Mirkwood and 
dealing with his father’s steward. Governing his people in Ithilien 
had made him better prepared for dealing with the complexities of a 
kingdom. Perhaps even better prepared than Franduil was. But Mirkwood 
was a much vaster state than Ithilien and Legolas was overcome.

He fervently wished that Gimli were there. The Dwarf’s practical, down 
to earth outlook on life had often been a lifeline to the Elf.

“Ahhh Gimli, what would you say if you were here?” He closed his eyes 
and in his mind he pictured the stout Dwarf standing in front of him 
with his fists upon his hips.

“You must decide what is most important, Legolas,” the imaginary image 
said sternly. Legolas smiled and let the vision play out in his mind. 
“You must decide who you trust and who you can not. Do not give up 
hope on your father just yet. Thranduil is as tough as the mountain in 
which he lives; as many of my people can attest to. Let his Steward do 
his job and let the Healer do his. As for the Lady Alede, you must 
tell her how you feel. Do not give her false hopes, but let her know 
that which is in your heart. If she chooses to wait the three or four 
centuries that it will take to knock some sense into that Elvish head 
of yours, that is her decision.”

Chuckling softly, Legolas opened his eyes and raised his head. The 
Dwarf would have said something very near that and Legolas felt better 
for having thought it. Rising, he arranged for one of Lomomir’s 
daughters to sit with Alede. He would see the steward first and then 
he would return to his father. Once Alede was awake again he would aid 
her in healing Thranduil.

And he would ask her for the talisman back and tell her how much he 
had missed her.

*********

Alede woke with a splitting headache and struggled to sit up. Her room 
was dark except for the soft shimmer of a she-Elf sitting near her 
bed. Alede blinked groggily. The woman was no one she knew.

The she-Elf looked at her disapprovingly. “Lie still, you are 
injured.”

“What happened?” Alede asked and her voice was rough with disuse.

“You fell on the stairs and went through the railing,” the woman’s 
voice was soft, but clearly she felt that only a non-Elf would do such 
a foolish thing.

Ignoring her tone, Alede blinked as memory came flooding back to her. 
She had heard a noise below and when she turned to look a hand had 
pushed her.

“Someone tried to kill me,” Alede blurted and struggled to rise.

“Nonsense,” the she-Elf said, trying to push Alede back down in the 
bed. “If you’ll just rest…”

“Rest!” Alede nearly shouted. “If someone tried to kill me, then 
they’re…” She broke off. “Who are you, anyway?”

The woman stood up, her face a mask of disapproval. “I am Lomomir’s 
wife. My daughters and I have been sitting with you while you slept, 
since my husband is obviously occupied elsewhere.”

“Oh yes, well…” Alede was still having trouble wrapping her foggy mind 
around events. It appeared to be very late at night or early in the 
morning from the moonlight streaming in her windows. She had no idea 
if it were the same night or the next. Not that it mattered. She had 
to get to the King.

Stumbling out of the bed rather unsteadily, Alede gave the Elf a 
slight nod. “I thank you for your trouble. But I am quite recovered 
now. I am a healer and will attend to my injury if need be.” When the 
woman hesitated, Alede thanked her again, hoping she’d leave. Finally 
the woman left with a sniff and Alede sighed. Yet, another Elf who 
didn’t want her here.

But though they didn’t want her here, she doubted that any of them 
would resort to murder to get rid of her.

“But if they meant to kill me, then I am getting too close finding a 
cure for the King.” She looked around the room for some clothes, but 
found none. Even her torn robes were missing. She supposed that while 
she’d lain unconscious one of the servants had taken her clothing to 
be cleaned.

Alede looked down at the garments she had on. She was clothed in a 
long white shirt and loosely fitting leggings of fine white linen. The 
leggings were far too long for her. Deciding that the garments were 
modest enough, Alede started out the door. But long habit caused her 
to reach for her locket and she nearly panicked when she found it 
missing. Moonlight glinted off of a golden object near the bed and 
racing to it, she found her locket. Slipping it over her head, she 
wondered who had removed it and fervently hoped no one had looked 
inside.

*********

Legolas took a deep breath and restructured his thoughts. Someone was 
pounding on his door and shouting his name. Considering that he’d had 
virtually no sleep in many nights it took him a moment to get out of 
bed. But worry for his father got him moving.

He crossed the bedchamber quickly, crossed out into the anterior room 
and pulled the door open.

Alede stumbled slightly and stepped back when the door was so suddenly 
yanked out from under her fist.

“My father…?” Legolas began.

“No, he’s fine.” Alede shook her head. “I mean, he’s unchanged.”

Legolas took in her disheveled appearance. Her hair hung loose in wild 
disarray and her bare feet peeked out from beneath the overly long 
garments he’d put her into the day before.

Alede seemed to be looking him up and down also. She glanced at his 
clothing which matched her own and obviously put two and two together. 
She blushed a deep scarlet and looked at her bare feet.

Legolas cleared his throat. “Did you have a reason for pounding on my 
door then? It is a bit early for a social call. Or does your wound 
trouble you? I could summon Lomomir.”

“No,” Alede shook her head. Something apparently disturbed her. “May I 
come in,” she asked and then brushed past him into the room before he 
could answer.

“Of course,” Legolas replied, with a wry shake of his head. He pushed 
the door shut and followed her.

Alede turned, “What happened to the book that I was carrying? The one 
that I had when I fell on the stairs.”

Legolas shook his head, “I know not what you speak of.”

She nodded. “Lomomir said the same thing. I just spoke with him. Yet, 
I distinctly remember seeing the book scattered on the floor as I 
fell.”

“I can search for it if you wish. What book was it? Did you find a 
cure?”

“No, but I now know what is happening. That book was a healer’s 
journal from the First Age. I suspect there was a clue in it. Or at 
least someone thought there might be.”

“Someone? Alede are you suggesting…?”

“Yes, Legolas! I did not trip on those stairs. I was pushed. I felt 
someone’s hand in the middle of my back. This is what has troubled me 
since the beginning. Elves do not become ill. This is a spell. Or at 
least magic is used. And someone is casting the spell.”

“No…” He shook his head adamantly as if he could make the idea go 
away.

“Yes, I’ve just been to your father’s rooms and performed a test. 
Magic of a very ancient kind resides in his belly. It did not get 
there on its own. Someone placed it in him.”

“But who would do such a thing?”

“That’s what you and I must determine Legolas. Who would wish to harm 
your father?”

Legolas shook his head and turned away, walking to the balcony. Alede 
followed him.

“Unfortunately, the list is endless,” he said with a sigh. “Can you 
counter this magic?”

“Not until I know what it is.”

They stood looking out at the dark forest, listening to the sounds of 
crickets and small night animals. Because Legolas was watching the 
silver light of moonbeams stirring the leaves, he failed to see the 
brief look of longing that Alede cast at him.

But he did notice her straighten and turn toward him. She cleared her 
throat in that business like manner that he remembered so well.

“We need not list all of your father’s enemies,” she said. “Any ruler, 
especially of a kingdom so great as this will have many. Say instead, 
who would benefit by his death?”

“I… I can think of no one, save perhaps the Dwarves on the Lonely 
Mountain, if they wished to reclaim their dragon gold.”

“Nay, this is too subtle for Dwarves. Legolas…” she paused as if 
searching for the right words. “Who will inherit the crown should your 
father die?”

“My brother Franduil. But do not think for a moment that he would harm 
my father,” he said not caring for her implication. “Franduil does not 
even wish to be crown prince.”

Alede held up her hand. “Bear with me. This is for the sake of 
discussion only. I’m not accusing anyone. After Franduil, who is the 
heir?”

“Franduil’s son, or,” he considered. “Possibly myself. Since little 
Elvomir is only a child. It would probably take a ruling before the 
council.”

Alede shook her head. “Well, I do not suspect you or a child, so that 
eliminates two…”

“Does it?” Legolas said, frustration creeping into his voice. “Of my 
family, I would benefit the most. Mirkwood’s wealth would go a long 
way toward healing the battle scars in Ithilien. And if you must 
suspect my family, why exclude little Elvomir? My sister in law, 
Elvothien might wish to be named regent. Or there is Lomomir. He is my 
father’s youngest brother. I suppose after murdering all of us, he 
might gain the throne as well.”

“Legolas…” Alede said softly.

“Elves do not commit murder Alede. How can you expect me to take this 
seriously?”

“But an Elf tried to commit murder last night. And they must be the 
same person who wishes to harm your father.”

“I agree that they must be the same. It makes sense. I doubt that we 
have two attackers,” he said. “But what makes you think that they are 
Elvin? If magic is used, would not a wizard be a more likely suspect?”

Alede shrugged. “It is a possibility, though I can think of no motive. 
What does Mirkwood contain that any wizard would want? I know none who 
bear a grudge against Thranduil. In fact, I know none who even speak 
of him. Still, I would entertain that possibility except for one 
thing.”

“Which is?”

“Who ever pushed me made no sound. I felt only the movement of air the 
moment before I was pushed. Whoever this is, they move with the 
silence of the Elder and they walk within these walls.”

Legolas felt a shiver crawl down his spine. As much as he hated to 
believe her, he could not deny the possibility.

*********

Chapter 7 coming soon! Thanks for the wonderful reviews!!!! I read all 
of them. Your support and comments are very helpful and encouraging! 
~Nebride :)

List of Original Characters:

Lomomir: Mirkwood’s Healer and Thranduil’s youngest brother.

Unilyn: A young she-Elf, probably about Legolas’ age. She is Legolas’ 
former lover.

Prince Franduil: King Thranduil’s second son. He is now the crown 
prince, due to the oldest son’s death in the War of Five Armies.

Princess Elvothien: Wife of Prince Franduil and sister-in-law to 
Legolas.

Elvomir: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little boy. Nephew to 
Legolas. 
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
----------



*** “ [ “ indicates the contents of a written letter. “ * ” indicates 
unspoken thought. ***

“The Caverns of Mirkwood”

Chapter 7

Dark Deeds





[Dear Gimli,

Nay, do not trouble King Elessar. This may be a plot against the 
throne. But how they have accomplished my Father’s illness, I know 
not. Alede is convinced it is a spell. I intend to do a little 
investigating tonight and will let you know what I find.

When I return, I will instruct you in the proper way of handling a 
hawk, and a pony for that matter.

Legolas

P.S. How is your “swelling’?]

*********

Alede ran the brush through her hair one last time and left the 
balcony, walking back into her room. Her hair was dry after its 
washing and she felt more comfortable with the blood washed away. A 
stiff dose of her own willow bark tea and a green spell to go with it 
had cured her headache. The head wound was healing, though it was 
incredibly tender.

After leaving Legolas’ chambers she’d checked again on the King and 
made some adjustments to his doses. The extract of poppy was keeping 
him quiet and comfortable, but she knew she could not keep him on it 
much longer. The drug would enslave him after a few days. At least in 
his fogged state he was able to take a little food. The strange lump 
in his belly had disappeared. Both she and Lomomir had noted that it 
seemed to change location, almost as if the King has swallowed a small 
stone the rolled about as the King did.

“But what Thranduil would be doing eating stones, I know not,” she 
said sourly to her reflection as she braided her hair in the mirror.

Legolas had given her much to consider during her bath. She had not 
known of Lomomir’s relation to the royal family. As the King’s Healer, 
he could certainly administer a potion and as the King’s brother he 
certainly had a motive. There was another puzzle as well which she had 
not mentioned to Legolas. If the King’s illness was the same as his 
wife’s, then she too must have been murdered.

*But why?*

Of all of them, Prince Franduil had the most likely motive. Crowns had 
caused murder before. And while Legolas stated an obvious fact, Elves 
did not kill other Elves. This just might be a first time.

*Or do they kill in such a way that no one has ever suspected murder 
before this?*

Alede pondered that thought for a while. *Perhaps this was a first of 
many.* And if Prince Franduil was the assassin, did his wife Elvothien 
know of it? Her open manner could be a method of diversion to mislead 
Alede. Or did the prince plot without his wife’s knowledge?

A sound on the balcony made her glance that way. All of her senses 
were heightened since her fall. Twice during her bath she had been 
convinced that someone watched her through the window. But she’d seen 
only trees when she looked out.

Walking cautiously to the balcony, she picked up her staff as she 
went. Early morning sunlight streamed through the trees onto the 
balcony. She stepped out slowly, surveying the forest around her. An 
Elf could easily hid in the dense growth and she’d never see them. 
Movement to her right caused her to jump but it was only a thrush. It 
flew away with a flit of wings.

Alede leaned back against the wall, laughing slightly at her own 
nervousness. Going back inside, she closed the balcony doors. She 
hated to shut out the sweet morning air, for Mirkwood became stifling 
hot during the afternoon. But she had to have a little more sleep. 
Locking both the balcony and the main door with a spell, Alede cast 
herself on the bed, promising to sleep only an hour.

*********

She had no more fallen asleep when she dreamed of being in deep water 
and struggled to breathe. Fighting against the currents, she tried 
desperately to swim to the surface. Frantically her limbs flailed out 
and her knee struck a solid object.

Alede woke with a start, only to find that the reality was worse than 
the dream.

She could not breathe.

She lay on her back, pinned to the bed, a heavy weight resting on her 
chest and something soft and suffocating on her face. Her arms were 
pinned as well. She tried to scream, but could get no air. She 
clutched with her hands, but could reach nothing useful and the object 
would not budge. Just has her lungs were on fire with need of air and 
her strength was nearly gone, she remembered what her knee had struck. 
Kicking upward, she bumped what felt like someone’s spine. Before the 
person could shift, Alede kicked again this time with every once of 
her remaining strength.

Her attacker pitched forward with the force of the blow. The weight on 
Alede’s chest shifted, as did the pillow covering her face. She 
gasped, sucked in a lungful of air and let out a scream of fury. 
Kicking again and wrenching an arm free, Alede struck out as hard as 
she could. Blankets tangled her arms and the pillow still covered her 
face, but Alede struggled for all she was worth.

Her attacker suddenly seemed to give up and the weight heaved off of 
Alede’s chest. With a shout Alede surged up, only to find herself so 
entangled in the blankets and pillows she could see nothing, nor could 
she get loose for several seconds.

In the mean time, someone had begun pounding on her door. Alede rolled 
off of the bed with a thump, shedding most of her coverings as she 
fell. Leaping to her feet, she called her staff to her and looked 
wildly around the room. Ignoring the shouts and banging at her door 
she ran to the balcony instead. The door was still locked, but as she 
glanced sideways she saw that the small window in the bathing chamber 
was open. Alede ran to it and looked out. No one was in sight, but she 
knew that an Elf could hide right in front of her and she’d never see 
them.

She scanned the trees never the less. Thick vines grew also around the 
window. They would make an easy ladder for an Elf.

A crashing sound from the main room alerted Alede to new danger. She 
raced into the room to see an enormous Elf rising from the splintered 
remains of her door.

*Am I to be assaulted from all entrances?* she thought incredulously. 
Without pausing she rushed forward, grasping her staff in an offensive 
posture. Before the Elf could regain his footing, she stuck him. As he 
surged defensively to his feet, she danced out of the way of the long 
knife he carried. She hit him again and he parried quickly with the 
blade. She felt its impact along the staff and danced back out of 
range again, only to realize that the Elf was shouting her name even 
as he defended himself.

“Lady Alede, cease! I am sent here to guard you!”

“What?” she asked in astonishment, lowering her staff so quickly that 
only the Elf’s quick reflexes stopped him from hurting her.

He warily lowered his knife and began again. “Prince Legolas assigned 
me to have a care for your person. I have been outside your door. When 
I heard sounds of a struggle from within, I tried to enter, but the 
door would not open.”

“Ahh, well…” Alede blew an errant hair out of her face. “I locked it 
with a spell. My apologies.” She glanced at his knife. “Someone tried 
to smother me with a pillow. I’m afraid I thought you’d come to help 
them.”

The Elf’s eyes widened and he took in the tousled bedclothes. 
“Where…?”

Alede nodded toward the bathing chamber. “Through the window.”

The Elf hurried past her. Alede followed and watched him scanning the 
trees as she had done. His mouth turned down in irritation.

“I didn’t see anything,” Alede said. “But I have not the keen eyes of 
Elves.”

The tall warrior turned to her. “Yet even my eyes see only trees. It 
is true then?”

Alede raised a brow. She didn’t know what Legolas might have told him.

“Someone threatens the King and anyone who would heal him?” the Elf 
persisted.

“Apparently so,” she replied. “Tell me your name, if you please?”

“I am called Hithrawyn.”

“Hithrawyn, I am glad of your company. Let us make our way to the 
King. I think it best that I do not leave him since our attacker now 
grows so bold.”

*********

Legolas stood outside his uncle’s doorway and listened to the night 
silence all around him. He’d donned dark hunting garb and a cloak to 
hide his fair hair. In an inner pocket was a star crystal; a small 
blue gem that once exposed to sunlight would glow for several hours 
after dark.

Carefully, he opened the door and slipped inside. He listened for any 
change and when he heard none, he proceeded with his silent search.

Alede had given him much to think about, though he had not wanted to 
admit it. But the crown was a very real motive for murder and he dared 
not trust anyone, even his family. If he could find but one clue, then 
perhaps he could also find a cure for his father.

Most of all, he hoped to find the book that Alede had carried when she 
was pushed on the stairs. He’d spent the day in the Hall of Records 
with the Keeper, questioning the Elf about everything he remembered of 
the ancient healer’s journal. Unfortunately, it wasn’t much. But 
Legolas was certain there was a reason why Alede’s attacker had taken 
it. Even if he found the burned remains of the book in a fireplace, he 
would know the identity of his father’s would-be assassin.

In his own mind, his uncle Lomomir made the most likely suspect, 
though Legolas was loath to consider it. But Lomomir and Thranduil had 
ever been at odds and who knew what might have transpired during 
Legolas’ absence?

A slight sound in the bedchamber caused him to pause. His heart 
pounded as he listened to his uncle’s breathing. Lomomir’s wife sighed 
in her sleep and Legolas relaxed a little. They appeared to be 
dreaming. Though if they should wake, no explanation would ever be 
sufficient.

He slipped into the main room and examined the shelves carefully with 
the star glass. There were dozens of books, but none of them appeared 
to be from the first age. Most were written in Lomomir’s own hand.

As Legolas leafed through one ancient volume, his uncle groaned loudly 
in the other room. Legolas froze. But there was no further sound and 
after a few moments he continued his search.

The fireplace had recently been cleaned and nothing remained but soot. 
Frustrated, Legolas prowled the chambers. He dared not enter the 
bedchamber, for even he might wake them, though his stalking skills 
were admirable.

After a fruitless search he left.

He searched several more chambers that night, his father’s steward, 
some of the councilors that Thranduil did not agree with… and his own 
brother’s.

Legolas felt sick as he entered Franduil’s chamber. He was sick at 
heart and furious with himself for doubting his own brother.

*I should trust him,* he thought angrily. But Alede had placed a seed 
of doubt in his mind that would not go away. *And I can not deny that 
my father is dying.*

Despite his misgivings he searched their chambers anyway. Legolas knew 
he could never have peace with himself if he did not try all avenues. 
*At least, I may prove my brother’s innocence if I find nothing,* he 
thought.

Elvothien kept their rooms spotlessly clean and well ordered. If 
Franduil had the book it would have stood out amongst the tidiness. 
Legolas was relieved that he’d found nothing. If he could face his 
brother with out guilt in the morning, all would be well.

He was nearly to the door, when movement alerted him. Ducking into the 
nearest doorway, he found himself in the children’s room. He slipped 
silently behind the door and waited.

Elvothien came to the doorway, ghostlike in her nightdress. Legolas 
held his breath and prayed that she would not sense him. She walked 
in, checking the children who were fast asleep. Tucking the blankets 
more securely around them, she turned and left with out seeing Legolas 
in the dark corner behind the door.

He let out his breath, with a soft sigh. While his hunting and 
stalking skills might be admirable, they were nothing in comparison to 
motherly instincts. Deciding not to return through the main room, 
Legolas went to the window instead. He passed the two small beds on 
his way and couldn’t help looking in. The twins were nestled in downy 
white linens and their faces were soft and peaceful.

Little Elvomir still sucked his thumb when he slept, though he was 
past the age when most children had given up the habit. Legolas 
grinned down at his little nephew. He’d missed so much of their 
childhood while he’d been away.

And while he loved his nephew, little Thrania was the one who tugged 
at Legolas’ heart the most. She was the sweetest, most precocious 
little girl and he cherished her. That she seemed to love him as much 
was a blessing. Legolas reminded himself that once he had a chance 
he’d take Thrania out on Arod. She loved horses and always begged to 
ride with him.

Turning toward the window, Legolas started to ease it open more when a 
slight sound halted him.

“Psstt!”

He turned, knowing what he’d find.

Thrania was propped up on one elbow looking up at him, one tooth 
missing from her wide grin.

“Uncle Legolas,” she whispered loudly. “What are you doing?”

“Hush Nia,” he said, coming to kneel beside her bed. “I came to kiss 
you goodnight, for I have not seen you in days.”

“I’ve missed you,” she gave him an adorable pout.

“I’ve missed you too Nia. Maybe in a couple of days I can take you 
riding. Would you like that?”

She nodded enthusiastically.

“Now you go back to sleep and not a word to your mother about this, 
alright? If she knew I was in here waking you up, she’d be angry with 
me.”

Thrania’s eyes grew large. “Would Mummy spank you?”

Legolas managed to keep a straight face. “She might,” he said mock 
seriously. “So, not a word, alright?”

Thrania nodded solemnly, her eyes huge with the enormity of her 
secret.

Legolas reached down and hugged her tightly, kissing her forehead as 
he tucked the linens up around her chin. He received a tiny wet kiss 
on the cheek in return and grinning, he quietly left the room.

*********

The second night of Legolas’ vigil, he roamed the Great Halls in 
darkness, with no specific purpose. A strange sound in the dungeon had 
drawn him to the lower caverns earlier, but it had not been repeated. 
It had reminded him of Orcs, though of course there was no Orc in the 
Palace. He’d explored the lower regions and found nothing. Though in 
truth there were corridors and locked doors that even Legolas did not 
know what lay behind them. The caverns made his skin crawl. Once he’d 
explored them as a boy, but even then, he’d not been able to endure 
their closed quarters for long. After only a few moments the walls 
seemed to close in on him.

Not for the last time, he wished Gimli were here. The Dwarf would 
march boldly down the steps, berating Legolas for his cowardice and 
poking into every dark corner without fear.

Leaning against a dark wall, Legolas considered the situation. The 
second attack on Alede had alarmed him greatly. It meant she was 
getting too close to the truth. Legolas had assigned Hithrawyn to 
guard her door. He was an able warrior and very loyal to the family. 
Legolas knew the Elf would not fail him. Another warrior watched 
Alede’s balcony and more had been posted around his father’s chambers.

*But who is it that I protect them from?* Lomomir still seemed the 
most likely, merely because of the arguments that had occurred over 
the years. But Legolas could think of no true motive that the healer 
might have. Lomomir certainly expressed no desire for the crown. He 
was a quiet, scholarly Elf and cared not for politics.

Franduil made the most sense, as heir. But his brother did not even 
wish to be crown prince, let alone king. Legolas could not see 
Franduil giving up his quiet family life for the worries of rule.

And Elvothien would not wish for Franduil to rule either. She wished 
for her husband to be at home.

Legolas considered the other possibilities. His father’s steward and 
the members of council would gain nothing from the king’s death. The 
crown was hereditary. They could not supplant Thranduil with their own 
choice, even if they wished it.

*Nay,* Legolas thought. Only family members would gain from 
Thranduil’s death. Of his sisters, only two of them remained in 
Mirkwood. They were both married, but had no children and their 
husbands were not eligible to rule.

*Truly, of all of them, I stand to gain the most,* Legolas sighed. *If 
Franduil were gone as well, I’d gain the power and wealth of Mirkwood. 
And there is much that I could do with both,* he thought with a 
shudder, not liking the ways his thoughts were turning.

Many knew of the long-standing quarrels between the King and his 
youngest son. *Could someone hope to frame me?* he wondered. But once 
again, he could think of no motive. *Why?* That was the question that 
he could not seem to answer.

Because he was tired and lost in thought, Legolas almost missed the 
shadowed figure that crept through the Hall and slipped down the 
stairs that led to the caverns. Instantly alert, Legolas followed with 
care.

He lost the figure at the bottom of the steps and stood listening. But 
he picked up no sound in either direction. Finally turning to the 
left, Legolas headed toward the treasuries. If this person wanted the 
crown, perhaps they sought gold as well.

He found nothing, but halfway through his search, he heard that 
strange keening cry and froze. The sound was not very loud, but it 
sent icy chills down his back.

Creeping back the way he came, he suddenly saw the dark figure move 
down another corridor. Leaping in pursuit, Legolas turned the corner, 
just in time to see the figure move into the wine cellar. Running 
stealthily, he went to the door, but loose stones beneath his feet 
announced his presence. The figure ahead turned and saw him.

He was dressed in the same dark garb that Legolas wore and a hood also 
covered his face. Legolas gave a shout, but the figure sprang away, 
winding through the huge barrels and racks of wine fleet as a deer.

Legolas gave chase. He rounded another corner and suddenly his feet 
slipped. He was vaguely aware that a small wine cask had been smashed 
on the stone floor and it was the dark purple wine that he slipped in. 
Quick reflexes kept him from going down, but the dark figure had been 
waiting for him. Before Legolas regained his balance, the attacker 
shoved over a rack of empty wine barrels.

Legolas cried out as the barrels rained down on him. Shielding his 
head with an arm, he tried to duck out from under them, but one struck 
his shoulder forcefully and he was thrown to the side. When the 
cascade finally ended, Legolas leaped over the splintered wood, 
running down the corridor where the dark figure had fled. But the 
diversion had worked too well.

The attacker was gone.

He woke up the Guardsmaster. Then with many Elves and many torches, 
they searched all of the lower caverns. Another group of guards 
searched the upper halls at the same time. None of them found a 
mysterious dark figure or any creature that might make the odd keening 
sound that Legolas had heard.

Exhausted and furious, Legolas continued his vigil long after he’d 
sent the guards away.

*********

“Legolas! What are you doing here?”

“Unilyn…” He’d heard her approach, but hadn’t known who it was until 
she rounded the corner. He slid his long knife back into his belt.

“I have been looking for you for two days,” Unilyn said with concern. 
“What are you doing down here?”

“Shh… my old friend,” Legolas cautioned and pulled her well back down 
the corridor that he had stationed himself in. “We must speak quietly. 
I believe we have an intruder. Someone who wishes to harm my father 
and I am watching for them.”

“Do you mean…” Unilyn gasped, putting a hand to her mouth. The 
multiple bracelets on her arm tinkled softly. “Do you think your 
father’s illness is deliberate?”

He sighed. “Yes.”

“But who could…?”

He shook his head wearily. “I do not know. I’ve searched for evidence, 
I’ve questioned people. I just don’t know.”

“Oh, you poor dear,” Unilyn said sympathetically. She brushed a gentle 
hand over his brow. “How tired you look. Have you eaten?”

Legolas thought about it. “No, I have not. I had forgotten.”

“Then come upstairs and I will get you something.”

“Nay, I thank you. But I cannot leave. I doubt that our intruder will 
come back, but I dare not chance missing him.”

“Well, then let me bring something to you,” Unilyn said eagerly.

Legolas smiled his thanks. Obviously she wanted to help, but it was 
not a good idea. If the attacker would harm Alede, he might go after 
Unilyn as well. Legolas told her this, but Unilyn ignored his advice.

“I won’t let anyone see me,” she whispered before tip toeing away.

Unilyn was back a few moments later with a plate of cheese and bread. 
She also had a blanket draped over her arm and they spread it on the 
dusty floor while they ate.

“Have you heard anything Unilyn?” he asked in between bites. Now that 
he had food, he realized how hungry he had been. “Anything that would 
lead you to suspect someone would wish to harm my father?”

“No. But this does explain why that Witch would not allow me entrance 
into your father’s chambers. I’m sure she suspects everyone.”

“Alede would not let you in?” he asked. “I will speak with her, for I 
know how fond father is of you. But I would ask you not to speak of 
Alede in that manner.”

“I am sorry, Legolas. But since Lomomir became ill, she guards your 
father like a dragon over treasure. I…”

“Lomomir is ill?” Legolas asked with alarm.

“Yes. Did you not know? He was ill this morning, though his wife 
claims that he has been ill for several days and has been hiding it. 
The Witch… I mean Alede tried to see him this morning, but his wife 
would not allow her to enter their chambers.”

“But then Lomomir is without medicine!”

“Legolas, he is a healer himself and his wife has some skill…”

Legolas shook his head. “He has not the skill for this. I should go to 
him.”

Unilyn stayed him with her hand. “He will not see you. He will not see 
anyone for he thinks this illness will spread.”

Legolas closed his eyes in weariness and desperation. *Was it 
contagious?* Alede had not seemed to think so.

Leaning back against the cold wall he tried to decide what to do. What 
was he missing? There was a vital piece of information that he did not 
see. What was it? And where was that book?

“Dear Legolas,” Unilyn whispered and he felt her snuggle close, 
wrapping her arms around him. “I have missed you so. If you were back 
here in Mirkwood permanently, I’m sure you could put everything to 
right. Everything between us could be as it once was.”

The words struck him wrong, as did her cloying affection. She’d been 
devastated when he’d ended their relationship years ago. But he 
thought they’d moved past that. And now when he was in need of support 
and help, she brought up that same old argument.

Gently, he pushed her away. “I’m sorry Unilyn. We’ve had this 
conversation before. I thought you’d accepted it. One way or another, 
I will return to my own kingdom in Ithilien.”

“But…”

“I’m sorry,” and he couldn’t help the coldness in his voice. “Thank 
you for bringing me something to eat. But I need to continue my watch. 
Go on back.”

She pleaded with him to let her stay, but he refused as gently as he 
could. Sobbing loudly, Unilyn ran up the steps.

Frustrated, Legolas got up. He nearly kicked the plate as he stood. 
Not only had Unilyn given away his position, but now he felt worse 
than ever.

*********

Chapter 8 “Reconciliation” (complete with bathtub scene) coming soon! 
;)

List of Original Characters:

Lomomir: Mirkwood’s Healer and Thranduil’s youngest brother.

Unilyn: A young she-Elf, probably about Legolas’ age. She is Legolas’ 
former lover.

Prince Franduil: King Thranduil’s second son. He is now the crown 
prince, due to the oldest son’s death in the War of Five Armies.

Princess Elvothien: Wife of Prince Franduil and sister-in-law to 
Legolas.

Elvomir: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little boy. Nephew to 
Legolas.

Hithrawyn: A warrior sent to guard Alede

Thrania: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little girl. Twin to Elvomir 
and niece to Legolas. He affectionately calls her Nia. 
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
----------

*** “ [ “ indicates the contents of a written letter. “ * ” indicates 
unspoken thought. ***

This chapter dedicated to:

Nori; who after reading “The Hobbit” and Bilbo’s remark “Hmm, smells 
like Elves”, asked the question… what do Elves smell like?

Dawn; who has always been afraid of the dark.

“The Caverns of Mirkwood”

Chapter 8

Reconciliation





[Legolas,

Curse it all! I knew I should have come with you! If someone does plot 
against the throne, does it not occur to you that your royal head may 
be in danger? Have Elves no sense at all? I should be there to keep an 
eye on you. You’re likely to go off on some Elvin flight of fancy and 
get yourself killed! Watch your back or I will never let you hear the 
end of it. If it were not for my blasted … uh, injury, I would ride 
there immediately. I still will if you wish it.

Keep your head down and write to me immediately.

Yours,

Gimli

P.S. I’m certain that you have trained this hawk just to vex me!]

*********

For four days and three nights Legolas continued his vigil, just as 
Alede continued hers with the King. But both errands proved fruitless 
for the attacker did not return and Thranduil did not respond to any 
of Alede’s most desperate spells or cures.

Finally admitting defeat and utter exhaustion, Legolas abandoned his 
post and went to his father’s rooms. He found Alede there, asleep in 
her chair. Her head lay in her arms on the side of the bed and 
Thranduil’s hand rested on her bright hair. Legolas crossed quietly to 
them and lifted his father’s hand. It was as limp as before and the 
young prince wondered what had come to pass that the King had placed 
his hand on her. Tucking the coverlets more securely around his 
father, Legolas went to the door and quietly asked the guards to 
summon one of his sisters.

Then he gently touched Alede’s shoulders. She woke with a gasp and her 
first movement was toward Thranduil.

“He’s the same,” Legolas said behind her.

She turned then and he was struck by the dark shadows beneath her eyes 
and the very obvious trail of dried tears.

“Come,” he said. “You need sleep, as do I. The guards tell me you 
haven’t rested in days. One of my sisters is coming to watch over 
him.”

“No, I should stay. I’ve tried everything Legolas…” she appeared to 
swallow back tears. “But I should stay,” she repeated.

“Alede, you can not even stay awake. Fatigue will accomplish nothing.”

Alede reluctantly started to rise, but cried out in pain. Legolas 
caught her and helped her to stand.

“I’m just stiff,” she said pulling away from him. “I have not moved in 
many hours.”

They passed Legolas’ sister on the way out. “Send for us in my 
chambers,” he instructed her, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. “If 
there’s any change.”

*********

*His chambers?* Alede wondered as they left the King’s. What did 
Legolas mean? Rubbing her eyes and trying to wake up, she turned 
toward her own room, but Legolas caught her arm.

“Come,” he said in a gentle voice.

“But why? I was going to go to my room,” she said. “I need to wash and 
then…”

“What you need,” he interrupted. “Is a soak in a hot bath, a rub down 
and some sleep.”

She was too surprised to speak for several moments. “Legolas,” she 
lowered her voice. “You do not mean in your chambers, do you? I can 
not…”

“You are coming with me,” he said and there was a hint of steel in 
that soft voice. “I’ll carry you over my shoulder if I have to, but 
you’re coming all the same.”

Her mouth dropped open for a moment. “But…”

“Come.”

And Alede, not doubting for a moment that he would carry her over his 
shoulder, followed him to his rooms. At the door Legolas spoke to a 
servant there.

“Have the bath filled immediately and bring soaps and a gown 
appropriate for a lady.”

“Legolas…” Alede said in astonishment as soon as they had stepped into 
the outer room and he had closed the door.

He turned to her, one brow raised in a question.

“I can not bathe in your chambers and I certainly can not sleep here. 
The servants will think that… that…”

“Yes?” he queried.

Blushing, she turned away from him in dismay.

Behind her, Legolas chuckled softly. “They may think that. In fact, 
they very likely will. But we Elves are not prudish and they will care 
not. Will you feel yourself dishonored if they think that?”

“No,” she turned back around. “But what about your honor? You are a 
prince and I am still an outlaw here.”

He snorted softly, “You are no outlaw here. And I will have words with 
anyone who says that you are.”

“If your father awakens and hears of this, he’ll have me thrown in the 
dungeon for certain.”

Legolas’ eyes clouded for a moment. “Let us hope that he awakens and 
has the strength to try. I promise I will rescue you from the 
dungeons.”

Servants entered then carrying steaming vessels of water. Alede was a 
little amazed by how many of them there were. Curiosity finally got 
the better of her, and she peeked around the corner of the room they 
entered. The bath was more like a pool, carved out of white marble and 
large enough for two people.

Legolas shut the doors on the servants as they left and then indicated 
that she should go into the bathing room. Hesitantly, she did so.

The room was huge and well furnished. Large wardrobes stood against 
one wall and the stone floor was thickly strewn with carpets. Alede 
crossed over to a chair where a thin white gown had been laid. It was 
of beautiful workmanship. Yet when Alede held it up, she saw that it 
was alarmingly transparent. Obviously the garment was for sleeping. 
Why was Legolas so adamant that she stay with him?

Folding the gown over the back of the chair, she quickly undressed and 
slipped down into the bath. She couldn’t help the groan that escaped 
her lips as the hot water caressed aching muscles.

“Does the warm water help?”

Alede jumped. *Curse Elves and their silent footsteps!*

“Yes, thank you.” She couldn’t see him. He was behind her, and she’d 
be damned if she’d turn around.

But he soon came into her vision. He walked into the room, 
extinguishing lanterns as he went. Alede sunk down in the bath, but he 
did not look in her direction. When all but one candle had been blown 
out, Legolas walked around behind her and knelt down.

Alede started when she felt his fingers in her hair. Gently he slipped 
the tie from her braid and combed her hair out with his fingers. She 
shivered beneath his gentle touch. Long had she wished for his touch. 
But when she saw him reach for the small cake of soap, she had to stop 
him.

“My prince,” she whispered. “You should not.”

“Why?” and his voice was a soft breath against her ear.

“This is servant’s work, and you are…”

“Twas it not servant’s work when you cared for me?”

“No, that was different. You were injured…”

“It is no different, Alede. And I wish too. You are tired and sore. 
Does it bother you that I should touch you?”

“No.” *By the Valar, no.* She wanted him to touch her. Despite her 
fatigue, she wanted his touch. She’d wanted it since the day she’d 
first seen him.

“Slide down,” he instructed.

Alede slid down and tipped her head back to wet her hair. Then sitting 
back up again, she closed her eyes in exquisite pleasure as Legolas’ 
strong fingers massaged the soap into her hair. The sensation caused 
prickles of delight all over her body. When his fingers stroked 
downward, massaging her shoulders, she relaxed completely. She barely 
even heeded him when he asked her to lean forward so he could wash her 
back.

“Do not fall asleep,” he said, amusement in his voice. “I will never 
get you out of here if you do.” And he reached forward with a soapy 
hand and pinched the lobe of her ear gently.

“Stop that,” she swatted at his hand, laughing tiredly.

“Behave,” he warned. “Or I’ll dunk you.”

“You’d better not…” But her words were drowned out as Legolas’ hands 
pushed down on her shoulders. She gasped, expecting to go under, but 
he hadn’t pushed that hard. Alede sat back up and splashed water over 
her shoulder. Legolas gave a mock cry, but she knew that he’d ducked 
out of the way in time.

He was laughing when he stood up. “I’ll leave the rest to you, shall 
I?”

“Yes, thank you,” was all she trusted herself to say. Turning, 
slightly Alede watched his lithe form walk out of the dimly lit room. 
Then she rinsed the soap from her hair and leaned back in the tub and 
relaxed for several moments until she felt she was truly in danger of 
falling asleep.

Sitting up again, she picked up the little bowl of squarely cut cakes 
of soap. The one Legolas had used on her hair was white and smelled of 
a small spring flowers. Another carried the soothing scent of 
lavender. The third one smelled of rain washed pine trees. Alede 
closed her eyes and inhaled the fragrance. This was the one Legolas 
used. She would recognize that scent anywhere.

*********

Legolas turned as he heard the soft rustle of Alede’s gown. She joined 
him on the balcony. The fabric flowed over her skin like moonlight and 
her hair was like a bright waterfall down her back. She held a comb in 
her hand, turning it over and over nervously.

“The gown suites you,” he said softly.

Even in the moonlight, he saw her blush and knew that he embarrassed 
her.

“I brought you here because I am concerned for your safety and we are 
both in need of rest. I did not mean to make you uncomfortable.”

“I thank you for the concern,” she said stiffly. “But I can not stay 
here tonight.”

“We have slept in the same bed before.”

She cleared her throat softly, “It was different then. You were 
injured and we had little choice. There was but one bed.”

“There is only one bed here.”

“Legolas!” she sounded exasperated. “This is ridiculous. Why do you 
insist on this? In the customs of my people, this would be the means 
of… of … seduction. But I know that can not be what you intend. So 
why?”

He sighed, hearing the distress in her voice. Why indeed, though he 
knew the answer. Once, over a year ago, he thought he could speak to 
her of anything. But their quarrel had changed things. There was a 
distance between them now that had been partly of his own making.

“I am truly worried for your safety,” he answered softly. *That much 
was true.* “If you are with me, I can sleep without concern. And I 
have never apologized to you for the greeting you received. I am truly 
sorry for that.” He glanced at her beseechingly, hoping she would 
forgive him. “I do not intend seduction, and I would not have you 
think that is my purpose.”

“I know that,” she answered quickly. “And I accept your apology. But 
there is more, isn’t there? More than just my safety.” Alede stepped 
toward him, concern showing on her face.

He nodded, unable to meet her eyes. “I lose hope, Alede. There is no 
cure for my father, is there? He will die, just as my mother did. Even 
if we find who did this, it may be too late. Or there may be no cure. 
I have tried to have faith, but even my strength is failing…” his 
voice broke and he turned away.

“Hush,” Alede said gently and then her arms were around him, holding 
him tightly. Legolas leaned against her as he had when he’d been 
injured.

“I will not let your father die. I promise you that,” she whispered 
and her voice was fiercely comforting.

“But I can not believe…”

“Shh,” she backed away enough that she could look up into his face. 
“Thranduil has been able to take food the last few days.”

“But that is only because he is drugged and does not feel the pain. 
Once you take the drug away…”

“I have already taken the drug away. I have him under a sleeping spell 
now. It is one of the strongest that I know and has dangers of its 
own. But at least he sleeps.”

“But he can not sleep forever.”

“No,” Alede looked out at the dark forest and sighed. “If all else 
fails… I will take him to the Grey Havens.”

“Alede!”

“Hush, listen. I can get him there on the spell horse. The ships are 
well provisioned and I could keep him whole until we land in the 
Undying Lands. I know that between Elrond, Galadriel or Gandalf this 
could be cured.”

“But Alede,” he could see the regret on her face. “You obviously do 
not wish to cross over yet. Why would you do this?”

“Do you not know?” she asked and her voice was rough with emotion. She 
gazed up at him with solemn eyes.

Legolas shook his head in disbelief. *How could he ever have believed 
his father’s story?* “I have never known anyone as generous as you, 
Alede. You give of your whole heart.” He tightened his grip on her. 
“What have I done to you?”

“You have done nothing.” But then her voice changed and he heard a 
whisper of mischief in it. “Save perhaps break a few of my ribs with 
your embrace.”

Legolas looked down at her and saw that she was trying to dispel his 
somber mood. He couldn’t help but chuckle a little.

“Then I will cease to crush you so. Besides I wish to bathe before the 
water has gone cold.” Her gave her another tight hug before letting 
go. Then he turned somber again. “I will not force you to stay if it 
makes you uncomfortable. But I had thought that perhaps in sleep we 
might give comfort to each other.”

She smiled sadly up at him. “I will stay then. Go and have your bath.”

“Thank you,” he whispered tracing the side of her face with his thumb. 
Then he stepped away and fetched a chair over to the fireplace 
gesturing her into it.

Alede watched him leave the room. Then she sat down thoughtfully and 
began to comb out her damp hair.

*********

*He needs me,* she thought with a bit of surprise. And his gentle 
touch on the side of her face had been unconsciously done. She doubted 
that he had even been aware of doing it.

In truth she had little strength left to give. She felt as hopeless as 
Legolas, but she’d give what ever she could to him. She remembered the 
dark nights when he’d been injured and the demons of Orthanc had come 
to haunt his dreams. She’d held him as he slept and whispered words of 
comfort.

Leaning forward, she pulled her hair to one side, letting the fire dry 
it. She rested her elbows on her thighs and was dozing when Legolas 
joined her again.

He sat down on the hearth, wearing similar garments to the last time 
Alede had woken him. These appeared silver in the dimly lit room. She 
was conscious only of his nearness and that he smelled of rain and 
trees. It took her a moment to realize that he was speaking to her.

“I’m sorry, what…?”

His smile held a touch of amusement. “May I?” he repeated and gestured 
at the comb in her lap.

“Oh, of course,” she handed it to him and watched as he combed out his 
long hair with swift efficient strokes. Alede remembered combing it 
out for him when he’d been too injured to do it himself.

“I think I saw my father’s enemy,” he said, setting the comb down on 
the hearth and sitting back closer to the flames.

“You did?” Alede asked once his words had soaked into her tired brain. 
“Where, when?”

He explained his recent activities and Alede listened with growing 
alarm.

“You should not have been down there alone!” she scolded. “You could 
be the next target, Legolas!”

“Mmm… possibly. Especially, now that Lomomir is ill.”

Alede frowned. “I tried to see him, but his wife refused to let me 
enter. If you’ll help me, perhaps you could persuade her in the 
morning. I am worried for him.”

“I’ll make it an order, if she refuses us. And do not worry over much. 
His illness could be a ruse.”

“You think him guilty?”

“I know not Alede. Of all the people close enough to my father, 
Lomomir is the most hostile toward him. But I can think of no real 
motive, other than dislike.”

Alede frowned, “Perhaps something has happened between them during 
your absence.”

“It is possible.” Legolas stifled a yawn and Alede couldn’t help 
clenching her jaws in sympathy.

Legolas shook his head. “Look at us, we are both a couple of fools. 
There is a soft bed in the other room. If your hair is dry, let us 
sleep.”

Alede got up. “Its dry enough.”

“And I am injured, if it makes you more comfortable to share a bed 
with me,” he said with a grin.

“Where?”

“My shoulder is still quite tender from the barrel that struck it. I 
suspect in addition to a bruise, I acquired some splinters.”

Alede made a disgruntled sound. “Why did you not tell me earlier? Let 
me fetch my bag.”

She joined him in the bedchamber a moment later and busied herself 
with her bag as he pulled off his shirt. Lighting a lamp, she brought 
it over to him.

“You’ll have to sit down,” she said. “You’re too tall.”

“Perhaps you are merely too short.”

Alede gave him a mock frown, though she was secretly amused by him. 
Poking him lightly in the ribs, she gestured toward a chair.

“Mmm… yes,” she said after he’d sat down. “You do have a quite a 
bruise and several splinters.” Reaching into her bag, she pulled out a 
tiny pair of silver tweezers and set to work on the slivers. Her gaze 
strayed to his finely shaped back. The scars from Orthanc were 
completely gone. “Does your leg trouble you?” she asked quietly.

“Not at all. You healed me well, Alede.”

“I am relieved. I was very worried about those arrow wounds. There,” 
she said straightening up. “That’s all of them.” She smeared a 
generous amount of marigold ointment on his shoulder and handed him 
his shirt.

Legolas stood up and pulled it on. Alede instinctively reached for the 
fastenings and started closing them. Legolas’ chuckle made her stop 
and look up.

“You’re mothering me again,” he laughed. “It takes only a small wound 
to get you started.”

“Oh!” She swatted his arm in mock irritation and left him to do his 
own shirt.

“Alede…”

She paused while putting things back in her bag and turned to him.

“May I have the talisman back? I miss its presence.”

Their eyes met for a long moment and then Alede turned away as she 
felt the heat rising in her face. “Of course,” she said and her voice 
sounded rough. She reached into her bag and brought out a tiny bundle 
of cloth. Unrolling it, she handed the talisman to Legolas and watched 
as he solemnly slipped it over his head.

He glanced up, his twilight eyes burning into hers. Looking away 
quickly she busied herself with her bag. By the time she had the 
contents put back together, Legolas had blown out the lamp and moved 
away.

“Come to bed,” he said softly.

Those words spoken in that maddeningly soft voice set butterflies to 
dancing in Alede’s stomach. She paused, trying to get her emotions 
under control. Legolas apparently had no idea of his effect on her.

When he patted the mattress invitingly, she hesitantly slid in beside 
him. The linens were as soft as silk and the feather mattress felt 
like a cloud. There was an obvious advantage to being royalty. Even in 
her fine apartments at Rivendell, she had nothing as comfortable as 
this.

Rolling toward Legolas, she touched his arm gently.

“I will not let your father die, Legolas. Sleep in peace tonight. I 
know not how to cure him yet. But I will not give up.”

“I know that,” he said quietly. “And if he must go to the West, I will 
take him. You need not go.”

“Nay, I must, if it comes to that. For someone must nurse him on the 
voyage. But let us not speak of that! It is a last resort. I still 
hope to find the answers here.”

“Yes,” Legolas murmured rolling onto his back. He pulled Alede close 
and she pillowed her head on his shoulder, cherishing the feel of his 
chest rising and falling beneath her hand, cherishing his closeness.

“Though I can not see an answer to my father’s cure,” he said 
sleepily. “At least I have answered another question that has plagued 
me.”

“What is that?” Alede asked around a yawn.

But Legolas did not answer and when Alede raised her head, she saw 
that he’d fallen asleep. Lying back down, she pondered his words for 
only a moment before she too, fell asleep.

*********

Legolas’ quiet dreams of forests and moonlight were troubled by 
visions of a dark figure. It darted behind trees and taunted him with 
books strewn in the path to trip him. Finally, tired of chasing the 
shadowy figure, Legolas bent down in his dream and picked up one of 
the books.

He looked at the familiar cover and it took him a moment to grasp its 
significance. Suddenly, he knew the answer and brought himself fully 
awake. He blinked in the pre dawn darkness, glancing down at Alede’s 
still form beside him.

It was not the healer’s journal they needed to find. It was the other 
book, the one missing from the Hall of Records.

The book he’d read as a child.

*********

A/N: I apologize! I realize I sort of mislead you about the bathtub 
scene. I know everyone was hoping to find Legolas in the tub once 
again. Sorry about that! Please forgive me? *groveling nicely and 
saying something about “Nice Master, don’t hurt us precious…*

I see many of you have got out your magnifying glass and your deer 
stalker caps and are searching for clues. Find out in chapter 9 
(coming soon) if they’re the right ones! *grins evilly*

As always I really, really appreciate the reviews. Keep ‘em coming, 
please! *begs nicely!*

List of Original Characters:

Lomomir: Mirkwood’s Healer and Thranduil’s youngest brother.

Unilyn: A young she-Elf, probably about Legolas’ age. She is Legolas’ 
former lover.

Prince Franduil: King Thranduil’s second son. He is now the crown 
prince, due to the oldest son’s death in the War of Five Armies.

Princess Elvothien: Wife of Prince Franduil and sister-in-law to 
Legolas.

Elvomir: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little boy. Nephew to 
Legolas.

Hithrawyn: A warrior sent to guard Alede

Thrania: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little girl. Twin to Elvomir 
and niece to Legolas. He affectionately calls her Nia. 
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
----------



*** “ [ “ indicates the contents of a written letter. “ * ” indicates 
unspoken thought. ***

A/N: Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the reviews! You guys 
inspire me and keep me going! I’m glad you’re all hunting for clues. 
I’m afraid I’m not an “Agatha Christi” but I hope I can keep this 
exciting for you. One of my favorite quotes is, “The only fun about a 
mystery, is that it is one.” Enjoy and thanks for reading! ~Nebride





“The Caverns of Mirkwood”

Chapter 9

Demons and Other Denizens of Darkness





[Dear Gimli,

I know now what it is that threatens my father. But I know not how it 
came to be. Tell me, my friend have you ever heard tell of a …]

*********

“Alede…”

“Mmm?”

“Alede, wake up.”

She took a deep breath. She did not want to wake up. She was warm and 
comfortable and cradled in Legolas’ arms. Why would she want to wake 
up?

“I think I know what threatens my father.”

That opened her eyes. “What?”

The mattress heaved as Legolas untangled himself from her and bounded 
out of the bed. Alede sat up, watching him in bewilderment.

“It was the book,” he began stripping his top off and walked out of 
the room.

“The book?” she called after him. “The one that I borrowed from the 
Hall of Records?”

“No.”

She could hear him moving around in the other room and got out of bed 
to follow him. They nearly collided in the doorway, so great was 
Legolas’ haste. He dumped a bundle of clothing on the bed. She 
recognized them as hers and he was already partially dressed.

“It was the book that I questioned the Record’s Keeper about,” his 
voice was muffled as he pulled a tunic over his head. “Do you 
remember?”

“Uhm, vaguely…” Alede forced herself to concentrate on straightening 
out her clothing. “It was a book about demons wasn’t it?”

“Yes, ‘Demons and Other Denizens of Darkness’. My Father read it to 
Franduil and I when we were children. It frightened me so that I 
dragged my sisters and my friends down to the Hall and read it to them 
as well. ”

“But what about it?” Alede called, as Legolas walked out of the room 
carrying his boots. She quickly sorted out her clothing and started to 
dress. “Do you think your father is plagued by a demon?”

“Yes. In that book there was a small demon mentioned,” he said from 
outside the door. “It inhabited caves during the First Age. It could 
cause great illness and even death if its eggs were swallowed. It 
killed many Orcs, and occasionally men. But I remember not the name of 
it…”

Alede suddenly spun around; her eyes were clouded as she searched her 
memory.

“A Greymalcin,” she said suddenly, running to the door. “That’s what 
you speak of, isn’t it? A Greymalcin!”

“Yes, that was the name!”

“Legolas… you may be right. I have read about them, but had 
forgotten…”

“Come!” He held his hand out to her. Alede quickly yanked her hair out 
from under her tunic and took his hand. Together, they ran to the 
King’s chambers.

*********

The king turned onto his back and groaned faintly as Alede carefully 
palpitated his stomach. Thranduil was breathing through his mouth in 
desperate little gasps. As Alede leaned over him, she once again 
caught that subtle scent that she’d noticed the first day. She 
breathed in again.

Elves did not smell bad. Ever. They virtually never perspired. They 
kept themselves fastidiously clean, never suffered from bad teeth…

“Legolas,” she said. “Tell me, what do you smell?” Alede gestured 
toward his father. Elves had much keener senses than even the Istari.

Legolas’s fine brows arched in surprise, but he obligingly leaned over 
his father. He rose up swiftly with a puzzled and disgusted look on 
his face.

“Rats,” he said.

Alede nodded. “Yes. I smelled it the first time I entered the room, 
but could see no signs of rats and dismissed it as my imagination.”

“The Greymalcin?” Legolas asked.

She nodded. “Yes. I seem to remember that the Greymalcin was supposed 
to have a disagreeable smell. But I cannot feel it,” she said, 
pressing Thranduil’s belly. “Perhaps I am not pressing hard enough. 
But I am fearful of hurting him…” she trailed off then approached 
Legolas so quickly that he backed up as if to get out of her way.

“No, hold still. I need to know how much pressure I can use without 
injuring your father. Tell me when it becomes too painful,” she said, 
placing her hand on his stomach.

“Relax,” she said as her fingers probed beneath his ribs.

“Relax? How can I relax with you poking and prodding me?”

“Relax,” she snapped. “I can feel nothing with your muscles so 
taught.”

Legolas made a sound of irritation and took a deep breath, willing his 
muscles to relax.

Alede’s fingers slid over the curve of his rib cage and just below it, 
pressing hard.

She stopped when he winced.

She moved away from him abruptly, bending over the king. Her fingers 
moved over Thranduil’s stomach in the same pattern. The king groaned 
again weakly and Alede leaned down, pressing her ear to the Elf’s 
stomach.

She rose up, her eyes wide. “I need…” She broke off. One did not ask a 
prince to fetch things. Rushing to the door she flung it open and 
spoke quickly to the guards there, instructing them to bring broth for 
the King.

Turning back to Legolas, she said, “If it is indeed a Greymalcin, then 
I’ve been putting it to sleep along with your father. That’s why it’s 
been so quiet. But if I remove the spell from the creature and give it 
some food…”

“Then you may be able to feel it,” Legolas finished for her.

She nodded.

Legolas paced at the foot of the bed. “The wine that my mother drank 
came from some of our spoils in an Orc cave. Now, if I remember my 
reading…” he paused to consider. “The female Greymalcin can lay her 
eggs through a tiny tube, like a cricket. So, the eggs…”

“I believe they’re called spores,” Alede supplied.

“All right, spores. The spores could have been laid inside the cask of 
wine.”

Alede nodded, “And when your mother drank it…”

“Yes.” Legolas sat down all of a sudden. He remembered the worst part 
of that book. The Greymalcin spores hatched inside the victim’s body 
and once they died, the creature ate its way out…

“Don’t.” Alede’s knelt in front of him quickly. Obviously, she too 
knew the creature’s habits. “Don’t dwell on it. Let’s make sure that 
we have correctly diagnosed your father. Once he is cured…”

“But is there a cure?” he asked quietly.

“Yes, a very simple one actually. The demon must be expelled.” Alede 
got up when there was a knock at the door. She retrieved a bowl from 
the servant there and closed the door. “But in your father’s weakened 
condition, it could be as fatal to him as the Greymalcin itself.”

Legolas watched as Alede passed her staff over his father’s belly. She 
concentrated for several moments, murmuring an incantation.

“Will you lift his head for me?” she asked Legolas. “I’m only waking 
up the Greymalcin. I don’t want your father to experience any pain.”

Legolas sat on the bed, cradling his father gently. Alede carefully 
fed Thranduil a couple of spoonfuls then waited with her hand on his 
belly.

“There!” she exclaimed suddenly. She took Legolas’s hand and laid it 
over his father’s stomach, pressing it down with her own. Legolas 
looked up in amazement.

“I felt it,” he exclaimed. “It’s like a babe unborn, when they move in 
their mother’s womb.”

“We’ve got it, Legolas!” she cried excitedly. “We’ve solved part of 
the mystery at least! I will do every thing I can to aid his 
recovery.”

Legolas clasped her hand across his father’s still form. “I was right 
to bring you here. I should never have lost faith. If anyone can heal 
him, you can Alede.”

“I will do my best. Now we just need to…”

She was interrupted by the door banging open. Princess Elvothien 
rushed in, highly agitated.

“Lady Alede, please come quickly! My husband is ill!”

*********

The symptoms were the same, exactly the same. Alede looked up into the 
panic stricken eyes of Princess Elvothien and Prince Franduil and 
nodded. Glancing around, she looked for Legolas and instead her eyes 
fell on two adorable little faces.

Elvin children were rare. So rare, in fact that Alede had never seen 
any and yet here were two precious twins starring up at her with large 
solemn eyes. She knew not how old they might be. They were the size of 
human children of four or five years. The boy strongly resembled 
Franduil and the King. But the girl had taken after her grandmother’s 
side of the family and her resemblance to Legolas was remarkable. As 
Alede watched, the little girl ran to her uncle and tugged at his 
leggings.

“Legolas,” she whispered. “What’s wrong with Father?”

“He is ill, Nia. But Alede will make him well again.”

Legolas picked her up, resting her on his hip with the ease of long 
practice. If Alede had not been so worried she might have melted at 
the sight of them. Their faces so alike, their intense eyes the same 
color of twilight, their long hair blending against Legolas’s 
shoulder.

Alede dragged her eyes away reluctantly and turned to Elvothien. “I 
think Legolas and I have found an answer. But it would be best if the 
children are not here.”

Elvothien looked up at Legolas and he nodded. “I will take them to our 
sister.” Still carrying Thrania, he held out a hand to the boy and 
they left the room.

Alede quickly explained to Franduil and Elvothien what she and Legolas 
believed and how she might cure it.

“That’s ridiculous,” Franduil said as soon as she was finished. He sat 
ramrod straight in bed and Alede was willing to bet that Elvothien had 
forced him in there. He didn’t look like a terribly cooperative 
patient.

“That book contained stories for children. None of those creatures 
were real. Even if they were,” Franduil continued indignantly. “I can 
not believe that such a thing could cause such a severe illness in my 
father. I’ve certainly not eaten any spores, as you call them.”

“Listen to her, Franduil,” Legolas said as he came back in the room. 
“That book was a true account. It was not just tales. The Greymalcin 
was clearly described. And I too felt the creature move within 
Father’s stomach.”

“Well then, what are you waiting for?” Franduil exclaimed. “If you are 
both certain of this then remove that thing from him before it causes 
him any more harm!”

“Well, that is the problem…” Alede began, looking up at Legolas for 
support. “In your father’s weekend condition, expelling the demon 
could kill him. There’s the possibility that it could tear his stomach 
or he could choke. And if we’re wrong, though I’m sure that I’m not, 
I’d like to start…” she glanced apologetically at Elvothien before 
turning her gaze back to Franduil. “I’d like to try the cure on you 
first, your Highness.”

It took a moment for her words to sink in. Then Franduil was furious. 
“I have no intention of allowing you to deliberately make me ill!”

“Franduil…” Legolas began, but Alede interrupted.

“But if you are carrying a Greymalcin as well, then not only will it 
confirm our theory, but it will also ensure…” she paused, hesitant to 
say what needed to be said. “I must be certain that this kingdom will 
have an heir, if I fail to cure your father,” she finished quietly.

There was a moment of silence and then everyone started arguing at 
once.

“Silence,” Legolas cried. “This is what must be done. I like it not. 
But we must ensure the safety of the kingdom, Franduil. By the Valar, 
I hope we will cure Father as well. But we must face the reality that 
he may too far gone. He may be too week.”

“And whose fault would that be?” Franduil shouted, glaring at Alede. 
“If you had discovered this creature days ago, instead of…”

“Franduil, it is not Alede’s fault!” Legolas shouted back at his 
brother. “Why do you resist this? What harm will it cause? You’ve been 
sick on wine often enough, will this be that much worse? At least then 
we will know for certain. You are strong and healthy. Even if we are 
wrong it will cause you no harm.”

“No. I will not allow…”

“Please,” Elvothien begged of her husband, interrupting his tirade. “I 
could not bear it if you sickened and died. Listen to your brother. He 
and Alede’s plea makes sense. You are the stronger one. Let Alede do 
what she must and then we will decide what else is to be done.”

Franduil lowered his eyes to his wife’s gentle hand upon his arm. His 
answer came reluctantly. “Very well. I will do as you ask.”

“Good,” Alede pulled out a packet of herbs from her satchel. “I will 
need hot water, a cup and two basins,” she said to Elvothien.

When all had been brought, Alede poured in a generous amount of herb. 
She stirred it and a bitter aroma filled the room. She handed the cup 
to Franduil. “A couple of swallows should be enough. Then give it to 
Legolas, so that he may drink also.”

“Me?” Legolas looked surprised. “But there is naught ill with me.”

“Not yet,” she said turning to him. “But I am not taking chances with 
you. You are next in line for the throne, so you are a likely target 
as well.”

Legolas looked obstinate. “I have had naught but wine for the past two 
days. I would have noticed if there were spores in my cup. Besides, I 
poured it myself.”

“Then you are probably safe. But I would prefer to be sure.”

“You already felt my stomach.”

“I imagine it takes a few days for it to grow tender.”

They exchanged glowering looks for a moment.

“You said you performed a test on my father,” Legolas finally said. “A 
test that showed magic in his belly. Could you not perform the same 
test on me?”

Alede scowled at him. “I could, but you will not like it. The drought 
would be easier…”

But Legolas was obviously not willing to comply. Elves were easily as 
stubborn as Dwarves though they would never admit it. Finally Alede 
turned away from him, she could not force him and did not have the 
persuasive power of Franduil’s wife.

With a sigh, Alede handed the cup to the elder brother and set it down 
on the table once he’s swallowed some. Then she turned back toward the 
fireplace as Elvothien picked up the basin and went to sit beside her 
husband.

Alede poked at the fire, adding another log and stirred the flames 
until she had a good blaze going. She ignored the quiet sounds of 
retching until she heard Elvothien’s gasp of astonishment.

“Alede!” Elvothien cried.

Alede ran back to the bed, just as a tiny black creature was trying to 
crawl out of the basin. Alede plucked the slimy thing up and hurried 
over to the fireplace. Legolas went with her, a look of horror on his 
face.

The creature was about the size of her thumb, with an oversized head 
and a man shaped body. Its skin was completely black and it smelled of 
rats. It emitted a shrill squeal and struggled to get out of her grasp 
as Alede held it firmly.

Alede nodded grimly, “A Greymalcin.” With a flick of her wrist she 
tossed it into the fire. The Greymalcin squealed and scrambled out but 
by then Alede was ready with the fire tongs. She grasped it firmly and 
held it in the flames. It screamed and sizzled.

Beside her, Legolas looked as if he might get sick without the benefit 
of the draught she had prepared. When the Greymalcin’s skin burst with 
a popping sound, Legolas left her rather quickly. Out of the corner of 
her eye, Alede saw him walk out onto the balcony.

Once the Greymalcin had burned to ashes, Alede returned to the bed. 
Elvothien had already wiped her husband’s face and removed the basin.

“How do you feel?” Alede asked, sitting down beside Franduil and 
handing him a glass of clear water.

“Other than feeling foolish for doubting you and Legolas, much 
better,” Franduil replied.

Alede smiled. That was likely the best she’d get for an apology from 
the proud Elf, but she was willing to accept it.

Legolas entered the room again, giving the fireplace a wary glance 
before coming to check on Franduil.

Alede glanced up at him and smiled. “There was no blood. He’ll be 
fine.”

Legolas nodded. “When ever you’re ready, you may perform the test on 
me.”

Alede glanced at Elvothien and shared a knowing smile with her.

*********

Franduil greeted Legolas as the younger prince returned. Franduil had 
dressed and seemed none the worse for wear after his experience. 
Legolas however, was very uncomfortable. The herb that Alede had 
rubbed on his stomach was so noxious it had sent him into a fit of 
sneezing. Even now, after several washings he could still smell it. 
And his skin felt raw from it, reminding him uncomfortably of the 
necromancer’s powder that he’d experienced before.

But the spell she’d performed combined with the horrid herb had shown 
no sign of a Greymalcin or any other kind of magic. And for that he 
was grateful, though he was certain he’d caught a glimmer of amusement 
in Alede’s eyes as she’d left him sneezing.

“How do you feel?” Legolas asked his brother with concern.

“I am well,” Franduil nodded. Then looking a bit sheepish, he grasped 
Legolas’ shoulder. “I spoke harsh words to you, which I wish to 
retract. And I think Father was wrong about Alede. She is stubborn and 
strange in the way of wizards, but I can sense no evil in her. I am 
sorry, my brother. You were right.”

“I forgive you,” Legolas said seriously. “We will see how right both 
of us are. This could go ill for Father if he has lost too much 
strength.”

Franduil nodded. “I understand. In part, that is why I insist on being 
there when she administers the potion to Father. But right now, 
Elvothien has asked her to examine the children. If this is a threat 
to the crown, then they too may be targets.”

Legolas shuddered at the thought and he and Franduil walked into the 
other room to see what transpired.

Alede sat cross-legged on the floor, both children in front of her. 
She was in the middle of an explanation when the two princes entered. 
Elvothien watched from a chair nearby. When her husband came in, she 
made a slight gesture for silence, then directed a smiling glance at 
the three on the floor.

“There are many things that can tell me how healthy you are,” Alede 
said to the children.

“Like what?” Thrania piped up and Legolas grinned. She was always the 
bold one.

“Like this,” Alede said. “Stick out your tongue and try to touch your 
tongue to the bottom of your nose.”

Nia immediately made the appropriate face, sticking out her tongue as 
far as she could. Little Elvomir, after watching his sister a moment 
tried it too.

Legolas and Franduil both smothered laughter at the their absurdly 
adorable faces.

“Mmnmn… I can’t do it!” Nia cried in frustration after a moment.

“Mm hmm,” Alede nodded sagely. “That tells me a great deal.”

“What?” both children asked, abandoning their nose touching exercise.

“You need to grow great big noses,” Alede replied with a twinkle in 
her eyes.

Nia giggled and Elvomir smiled bashfully.

“Or… or maybe really long tongues, like a snake,” he offered shyly and 
Nia giggled again.

“Yes, maybe so,” Alede agreed. “Alright, now how about this one? Can 
you wiggle your ears?”

Both children screwed up their faces in concentration again, trying to 
locate ear-wiggling muscles.

Nia blew her breath out when her face finally started to turn red. 
“No! Can you?”

“Of course,” Alede said, and reaching up with her hands she wiggled 
her ears.

All three of them burst out laughing and both children had to try this 
obvious technique.

“Last one,” Alede proclaimed once the giggling had died down. “Can you 
poke your fingers in your tummy really hard, like this?” She 
demonstrated on her own stomach. Both children immediately tried this 
as well, showing no signs of discomfort. Legolas smiled at how Alede 
had turned the examination into a game that would not frighten them.

“What does that tell you, Aday?” Nia asked, mispronouncing Alede’s 
name.

“It tells me that you’re not ticklish enough,” Alede said, quickly 
thrumming her fingers over both children’s ribs. Once again giggles 
broke out.

“Thank you,” Alede said rising to her feet. “You have been very good 
patients and I pronounce you in excellent health. Now to keep you 
healthy, I will prescribe some medicine for you as a preventative…”

“What’s a prevnative?” Nia asked.

“A preventative,” Alede corrected her pronunciation. “Is something 
that will keep you from ever getting sick. Now for you, Prince 
Elvomir… I prescribe that one day this week you will have two berry 
tarts after dinner, instead of one.”

“Really?” he asked. “What day?”

“Any day you chose.”

“Today,” the tiny prince said firmly and all the adults in the room 
laughed.

“And for you, Princess Thrania…” here, Legolas moved into Alede’s line 
of sight and caught her eye. He gestured toward himself and Alede 
seemed to catch on.

“I prescribe that you…” Alede broke off glancing once more at Legolas. 
He mouthed the word ‘horse’ to her and she nodded.

“I prescribe that you spend at least one hour with your uncle on his 
horse.”

Nia squealed and jumped up and down. “Today, Uncle Legolas? Today?”

He went to her and knelt down. “Not today, Sweet. But perhaps tomorrow 
morning. I’m going to help your grandfather get well today. But 
tomorrow we’ll go.”

“Are you going to give Grandfather berry tarts?” Elvomir asked shyly.

“Yes,” Alede answered giving a serious glance at the two princes. 
“Once he’s well, he can have as many berry tarts as he wants.”

*********

“Your children seem fine, Your Highness,” Alede said as she hurried to 
catch up with the two princes. “You both know the symptoms to watch 
for.”

“Yes, thank you,” Franduil answered. “Now what is your plan for 
Father?”

“Well…” Alede looked to Legolas. “He’ll need to be conscious, so there 
is less danger of his choking. But once I bring him out of the 
sleeping spell, he’ll be in pain and I’m not sure I’ll be able to 
administer the potion.” She glanced around at both of them. “I’ll 
entertain any suggestions.”

Franduil considered for a moment and then nodded. “Mead,” he said.

Legolas’ head came up. “That last batch was potent enough. I certainly 
wasn’t feeling any pain.”

The two brothers grinned at each other and Alede wondered what she was 
missing. But she’d have to ask later.

“Meade might be the answer. It would make him relaxed…”

“Oh, he’ll be relaxed.” Franduil affirmed. “I’ll bring it to his 
room.”

*********

“I’ve never intentionally gotten a patient drunk before,” Alede said 
uncertainly. “Isn’t that an awful lot, Legolas?”

Legolas had the presence of mind to start giving the mead to Thranduil 
while he was still unconscious and was pouring it down the King’s 
throat in what seemed like copious amounts to Alede.

“Father can drink quite a bit,” Legolas said, gently tipping in 
another mouthful.

Alede watched worriedly, but when she took the heavy sleep spell off 
of the King, he seemed quite cheerful and was certainly relaxed. The 
mead was indeed potent.

Thranduil did choke after Alede administered the drought. And for a 
few terrifying moments she thought she’d lose him. But with both 
princes holding the King firmly, Alede gave him two solid blows 
between his shoulder blades. Thranduil coughed violently and then took 
a deep gasping breath.

He was free of the Greymalcin. Alede gently lowered the King back onto 
his pillow, reaching hastily for the basin. But the Greymalcin was 
giving them no trouble. It was as drunk as its former host.

“Allow me to do the honors,” Legolas said thrusting the woozy demon 
into the fire. It was much larger than the one Franduil had carried.

Alede bent to examine the King. There was no blood on his lips and 
when she palpitated his stomach he appeared to feel no pain. She 
gently wiped his face and gave him several swallows of water.

“I think he’ll be fine,” she said turning to the two anxious faces 
that watched over her shoulder. “I’ll give him another draught of the 
slippery elm to sooth his stomach. But I think tomorrow he’ll be able 
to eat some bread and then we’ll see…”

Franduil’s face broke into a relieved grin.

“You’ve done it!” Legolas cried joyfully. He caught Alede in a fierce 
embrace, lifting her momentarily off of her feet and swinging her 
around. Alede gave a squeak of surprise, but laughed and returned his 
hug once he’d set her down again.

“Are you still here, Witch?” Thranduil slurred.

“Yes, I am still here,” Alede said with a wry shake of her head. 
*Well, I did not expect any thanks from him.*

Straitening up, she picked up her satchel. “If you’ll watch over him 
Lord Franduil, I’ll go to Lomomir now.”

“Yes, I’ll take care of him,” Franduil said, pouring a healthy dose of 
mead for himself.

“Alede…”

She glanced back at Legolas.

“Thank you,” he said quietly and the look in his eyes was more thanks 
than she could ever hope for. “I’ll join you in a moment,” he 
continued. “In case Lomomir still forbids you entrance.”

*********

Alede walked quickly down the corridors to Lomomir’s room, Hithrawyn 
at her side. She had just finished explaining the situation to the 
Elfin guard.

“I begin to wonder if the infestation of the Greymalcin was merely an 
accident, Hithrawyn. Perhaps the spoors got into the food stores 
somehow.”

“But Lady Alede, how would that explain the attacks on you?”

“Yes, well…” Alede said glancing behind her to make sure that Legolas 
had not caught up with them yet. “How well do you know Lady Unilyn?” 
she asked stepping closer to Hithrawyn and lowering her voice.

The guard hesitated, obviously uncomfortable with what he considered 
gossip.

“I only ask,” Alede continued. “Because I wonder if those attacks 
might have been prompted by jealousy and have nothing to do with the 
King’s illness.”

Hithrawyn shook his head. “That is not Unilyn’s way. While she may see 
you as a rival she would not attack you. She has been quite frail 
since her incident. She would not have the strength. Pity has always 
been her strongest ally, not aggression.”

“But then who…?”

“There is also the matter that Unilyn has nothing to gain by stealing 
the two books that we are missing,” Legolas said coming up behind 
them.

Alede turned guiltily toward him. Legolas’ face was stony and she knew 
that their conversation had irritated him.

“And, you forget that my mother died of this. I think it much more 
likely that whoever pushed you on the stairs and stole the books, is 
also the same person who stands to gain from the loss of the royal 
family.”

Legolas gave Alede one more dark look before pushing ahead of them and 
walking toward Lomomir’s rooms.

Guiltily, Alede and Hithrawyn followed him.

*********

Lomomir’s wife refused them entrance. Legolas attempted shouting 
explanations through the door at her, but she wouldn’t have it.

Finally, losing his patience and with a tone he seldom used, Legolas 
made one final attempt.

“This is not a request. This is a royal command. Open the door to your 
Prince, now!”

“I… I can’t,” came the sobbing cry behind the solid wood.

“By the Valar…” Alede muttered irritably beside him. Clearly she had 
lost patience also. Bending down onto one knee, she pointed her staff 
at the lock and began a furious incantation. Legolas heard clicks as 
the tumblers moved and he tried the knob. The door rattled but did not 
open.

“Its barred on the inside,” Alede said quietly as she stood up. 
“Hithrawyn is rather good at opening doors however,” she added looking 
up at the huge warrior.

Legolas nodded to him. “Both of us.”

Alede quickly stepped out of the way and Legolas and Hithrawyn put 
their shoulders to the door. With an unspoken signal, they pulled back 
and then slammed into it. The door shuddered at their first attempt, 
but the second sent them crashing through it.

Legolas leaped easily over the splintered remains of the doorframe and 
scanned the room. He’d expected his uncle to be in the bedchamber and 
was rather surprised to find himself confronting him from across the 
main room.

“What foolishness is this?” Lomomir demanded.

“We have found the cure Uncle. You need not suffer anymore or fear to 
contaminate us.” Though in truth as Legolas looked his uncle over, he 
did not appear to be ill at all. Lomomir was fully dressed and from 
the ink on his hand it seemed he had been sitting at the desk just 
before they entered.

Alede pulled out her bag of herbs and began explaining the nature of 
the illness to Lomomir. Legolas watched his uncle in bewilderment. The 
healer appeared furious and kept sending cold little glances at 
Legolas. He didn’t even seem to hear Alede’s words. Yet, if he were 
truly ill, Legolas thought, Lomomir should find comfort in them.

Suspiciously, Legolas glanced around the room. His eyes swept over the 
furniture and came to rest on the desk. The inkwell was overturned as 
if someone had risen from the desk in hast. Crossing over to it 
quickly, Legolas reached down and picked up some tiny black flakes on 
the desktop and rubbed them between his fingers.

Ashes. And one tiny piece contained ancient script.

Legolas’ head came up and he looked sharply at his uncle. Lomomir was 
staring back at him with a look of growing animosity on his face.

Legolas swore. “Hithrawyn, restrain him!” he shouted and ran into the 
bedchamber, the one room he hadn’t searched before. Behind him he 
heard an inarticulate noise as Lomomir tried to stop him, but the 
warrior intercepted him.

“What is it?” Alede called from the doorway, sounding puzzled.

Legolas did not answer; instead he glanced sharply around the room. 
His eyes rested on the wardrobe and he crossed to it, yanking the 
doors open. He pushed garments aside and pulled out drawers, but found 
nothing. Scanning the bookshelf, he shook his head in frustration and 
ran a hand through his hair.

“Legolas?” Alede said uncertainly from the door.

“Is Lomomir ill?” Legolas asked as he continued his search.

“Well,” he saw her glance back at the healer’s struggling form in the 
other room. “He certainly does not show any of the symptoms. But, what 
are you searching for?”

“Nothing I hope.” Legolas grabbed the corner of the mattress and 
pulled it back with a viscous tug.

A large book, badly burned tumbled to the floor. Several of its pages 
slithered out and scattered over Legolas’ boots.

In the doorway, Alede gasped.

They’d found the missing healer’s journal.

*********

NOTE ABOUT THE GREYMALCIN: This horrid little creature is something I 
read about in a book of ancient Celtic legends. Supposedly it 
inhabited its victim’s stomach and eventually starved them to death, 
unless they upchucked it. Ewww! It wasn’t called a Greymalcin, but I 
haven’t been able to find the book again, so I just made up a name for 
it. If anyone is familiar with this legend, please let me know. I’d 
love to read it again, even though it grosses me out! Just as bad as 
Legolas, I guess. :)

List of Original Characters:

Lomomir: Mirkwood’s Healer and Thranduil’s youngest brother.

Unilyn: A young she-Elf, probably about Legolas’ age. She is Legolas’ 
former lover.

Prince Franduil: King Thranduil’s second son. He is now the crown 
prince, due to the oldest son’s death in the War of Five Armies.

Princess Elvothien: Wife of Prince Franduil and sister-in-law to 
Legolas.

Elvomir: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little boy. Nephew to 
Legolas.

Hithrawyn: A warrior sent to guard Alede

Thrania: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little girl. Twin to Elvomir 
and niece to Legolas. He affectionately calls her Nia. 
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
----------



*** “ [ “ indicates the contents of a written letter. “ * ” indicates 
unspoken thought. ***

A/N: The Evil Old Woman caught my little fudge on the Greymalcin’s 
name! Good job! :) As I said in chap. 9, I couldn’t remember the 
actual name of the demon I had read about, so I made one up. Well, I 
like the sound of “Grimalkin”, which as EOW pointed out is the old 
word for a cat. I just played with the spelling a bit and came up with 
“Greymalcin”.

The waterfall scene is dedicated to Jocelyn and to all of you devoted 
fans of Prince Legolas.;) Enjoy~ Nebride

“The Caverns of Mirkwood”

Chapter 10

King Thranduil





[Legolas,

A Greymalcin! That explains it. Nasty little devils, but easily taken 
care of. Simply get your father roaring drunk and once he’s up chucked 
the little monster you can roast it in the fire. Most people like them 
with taters and onions, but I personally find them a bit chewy.

Has it occurred to that royal head of yours that you may be getting 
too close to the truth? Keep your bow handy.

Your friend,

Gimli]

*********

Legolas wearily rubbed his temples. He had a roaring headache from 
spending the entire day trying to question his uncle. But Lomomir had 
been furiously silent and uncooperative. Franduil had joined them and 
had no better fortune questioning his uncle either.

The two brother’s had spent several hours searching Lomomir’s quarters 
as well. They had not found the other missing book, the one Legolas 
remembered from his childhood. But there were fresh ashes in the 
fireplace in the bedchamber, so it may have been burned. And why had 
the journal been partially burned in the first place? Had Lomomir 
started to destroy the evidence and then changed his mind? The page 
that contained information on the Greymalcin had been badly damaged. 
Barely more than the title had remained.

Lomomir’s wife had been no help to them either. She had burst into 
tears almost immediately and they could get nothing from her. Lomomir 
had shouted at them to leave her alone and insisted that she knew 
nothing. That was the only point upon which he was eloquent.

“Do you think I made the right decision?” Franduil asked hesitantly by 
Legolas’ side.

Legolas shook his head to dispel his thoughts. “About…? Holding 
Lomomir in his rooms, you mean?”

“Yes… Father would probably have thrown him in the dungeon.”

“Possibly. But as yet, we have nothing to accuse Lomomir with. 
Possessing a healer’s journal is hardly a crime, Franduil.”

“But it does link him to the attack on Alede. And why would he attack 
her?” Franduil asked. “Lomomir could have used or taken that book at 
any time. So why wait until Alede possessed it?” The older brother 
shook his head. “I say that Lomomir feared she would gain the truth 
and cure the King, there by foiling his plans.”

“But what are his plans?” Legolas asked in frustration. “I can think 
of no true motive. He would not gain the crown except by eliminating 
all of us.”

“Unless he hopes merely to gain more power and freedom. Since your 
departure little brother it has not been well between he and father. 
They have argued much and Lomomir has been very frustrated. He even 
tried once to travel to Rivendell. But Father denied him leave.”

“Indeed?” That was news to Legolas. “Why did he wish to travel to 
Rivendell?”

“Lomomir claims that our knowledge here is becoming rustic. I think he 
hoped to gain wisdom from Lord Elrond.”

Legolas shook his head sadly. Too late. For Elrond had passed over to 
the West.

“If, however…” Franduil continued. “Lomomir were to arrange it so that 
someone else sat on the thrown. You for instance, he might hope for a 
more lenient master.”

Legolas snorted. “If that had been the case, I would have more likely 
left the kingdom in his hands and returned to Ithilien. And he still 
would have gained his wish.”

“Yes,” Franduil said slowly. “I had not thought of that possibility. 
You are the only one of us not affected.” And because Legolas was once 
more rubbing his forehead, he missed the calculating look on 
Franduil’s face.

Legolas nodded, unaware of his brother’s suspicions. “Perhaps the 
talisman Alede made protected me. She says the Greymalcin takes 
several days to grow and cause discomfort. I could have been infected 
shortly after I arrived as likely you were. But the talisman may have 
prevented it.”

“Perhaps,” Franduil said slowly.

“In any case,” Legolas continued. “I think you made the right decision 
in imprisoning Lomomir in his room. In a few days when Father is more 
recovered we will discuss the matter with him. It is his decision to 
make anyway. But I would rather he not know of it until he is 
stronger.”

“Of course,” Franduil replied.

They bid each other goodnight and Legolas went to the King’s rooms. It 
was shortly after midnight and he realized Unilyn would be watching 
over Thranduil. He felt guilty for his previous impatience with her.

The King was fast asleep and Unilyn was in a chair near the balcony. 
She rose when Legolas entered.

“How is he doing?” the prince whispered.

“He sleeps well,” Unilyn said and drew him out onto the balcony where 
they could speak more easily. “He sleeps more quietly than he has in 
many weeks.”

Legolas was relieved. “Alede has cured him of his malady. He should 
begin to recover.”

“Cured? Why… Legolas that is marvelous!” She stood on her toes and 
hugged him. “I’m so pleased. What a relief this must be for you.”

Legolas chucked softly. “Yes, a relief indeed. I’m afraid I have been 
overwrought. I apologize, for I have not been myself. I was harsh with 
you the other night.”

“Dear Legolas, I understand.” Unilyn reached up to cup the side of his 
face, smiling at him winningly. “And I too have been overwrought. You 
know how fond I am of your father. I am sorry I troubled you. Please 
forgive me. I still…” she hesitated, somewhat embarrassed. “I still 
over react to many things. I’ve never gotten over that.”

“Of course, I forgive you.” Legolas took her hand in his and kissed 
the back of it. “I must go. I need sleep. Thank you for watching over 
him.”

Legolas got only a couple of hours of sleep. His headache continued, 
and while he considered going to Alede for something, he didn’t wish 
to disturb her. She’d spent the day and most of the night watching 
over his father. She’d come to Lomomir’s rooms late in the night to 
tell them that their father was doing well. She expected a full 
recovery in a few days.

*At least the main worry is gone,* Legolas thought. He’d given up on 
sleep an hour before dawn and decided to go to his favorite place 
instead. *It will do me more good than tearing the bed to bits.*

The air was incredibly sweet as he stepped outside. Birds were 
starting to chirp in the pre dawn stillness, though the sun was not 
quite up yet. A pink glow had begun to stain the eastern sky.

Legolas walked through the dew-drenched foliage, making for the river 
and the waterfall that headed it. Mist crept up from the ground, 
shrouding him in its silvery tendrils. And the small night animals 
that he passed hardly noticed the Elf’s presence.

Legolas reached the waterfall and the deep pool at its feet just as 
the first ray of sunlight peeked over the distant horizon. Much of its 
light was blocked up the immense trees around him, but Legolas could 
feel the vibrancy of the sun’s rays upon the land. He leapt up onto a 
rock overlooking the pool and drank in the feel of the morning air.

*Too long I have spent inside, watching over my father,* he thought. 
The forest seemed to heal his soul, the gentle morning breeze blowing 
the cobwebs from his mind as easily as it lifted his hair off of his 
shoulders.

Quickly, he stripped off his clothing and without hesitation dove into 
the pool below. With strong, sure strokes he swam to the foot of the 
waterfall and pulled himself up onto the rock shelf beneath it. There 
was not a passageway behind it, as there was in Ithilien at Henneth 
Annun, the Window of the Sunset. But there was enough room for one 
dripping Elf to stand amongst the roots and polished rocks behind the 
waterfall. Legolas watched, almost holding his breath as the sun rose 
beyond the water. It turned the waterfall to a breathtaking pink, then 
mellowed into orange and finally brilliant yellow.

Laughing as his heart was lifted from its cares by the beauty of the 
falls, Legolas burst through the curtain of water. He felt the 
pounding force hit his head and stood still while it beat at his 
shoulders and back like a massage. Water streamed through his hair 
down his chest and formed rivulets over his belly. Invigorated, he 
dove once more into the pool.

He spent nearly an hour swimming, clearing his mind of the worry that 
had troubled him for so many days. He’d take Nia on her promised ride 
this morning, and then he’d speak with Alede in private.

Slipping over onto his back in the water, Legolas laced his fingers 
behind his head and floated easily on the surface of the water. The 
sun warmed his skin, turning it to gold.

Because his ears were underwater, he did not hear the slight movement 
in the bushes around the pool. And because his mind was engaged on the 
conversation he needed to have with Alede, he did not notice the eyes 
that watched him from the forest’s edge.

*********

Alede stretched the kinks out of her back as she rose from bed. 
Yawning, she ran a hand through her tousled hair and walked to the 
balcony. The sun had not yet risen, but the birds were beginning their 
pre dawn chorus and had woken her from the first night of decent sleep 
she’d had since arriving.

Below her on the path leading up to the palace, she saw a glimmer of 
movement. Squinting in the dim light, she thought it looked like 
Legolas. But what he’d be doing walking out into the forest so early, 
she did not know. His silvery form was soon lost amongst the trees.

Turning back to her room, she lit a lantern and filled the small basin 
so that she might wash her face and braid her hair. Once she had 
dressed she went to Franduil’s chambers to check on him. But Elvothien 
informed her that her husband had left already.

“How was he feeling?” Alede asked.

Elvothien sighed. “He is well and suffers no more, thanks to you and 
Legolas. But he is in a temper this morning because of Lomomir.” The 
princess shook her head sadly. “This is a terrible shock to all of us 
and I’m afraid my husband is much like the King in temperament. The 
council too is in an uproar because of what has happened.”

“It must be very difficult for all of you,” Alede said 
sympathetically. “Well,” she said changing the subject. “I can see 
that you are busy…” the twins were running around the room half 
dressed pulling each other’s hair. Alede smiled at the little ones as 
they raced past the door squealing, and then excused herself. “I go to 
take the King’s breakfast to him.”

“A task I do not envy you,” Elvothien said with a gentle laugh. “Thank 
you for relieving me of that duty.”

Alede turned and went down to the kitchens. She took out the small 
kettle of porridge that she had placed in a slow oven the night before 
and stirred the contents. The porridge had become as smooth as cream 
overnight and the dried grapes she’d added were plump and tender. She 
poured some into a covered dish and also cut slices of bread, spooning 
thick butter and honey into bowls. Then placing it all on a tray, she 
squared her shoulders and took it up to the King’s chambers. Alede was 
determined that this meeting with Thranduil would go well.

*********

Alede awkwardly closed the King’s door with one hand. The chambers 
were silent and Alede wondered where Unilyn was. She knew that the 
elfin girl still sat with the king during the long hours of the night.

She set her tray down and walked into the darkened bedchamber. It was 
not as stifling as it had been on many occasions and Alede found the 
balcony door open just a bit. Unilyn was standing at the rail. The 
girl turned as Alede joined her.

The young wizardess was once again struck by Unilyn’s ethereal beauty. 
She could understand why Legolas had desired her. No doubt any Elf 
would. But Alede was determined to put her jealousy aside. It served 
no purpose and doubtless, Unilyn had suffered enough in her life.

*And,* Alede thought ruefully. *I do not wish to appear the shrew in 
front of Legolas.*

“Good morning, Lady Unilyn,” she said politely.

The girl hesitated before returning the greeting and Alede wondered 
again if Unilyn resented her. Though at least Unilyn showed no 
hostility this morning.

Turning, Alede looked out over the forest as Unilyn did. “How… uhm… 
Did the King rest quietly last night?” she finally asked.

“Yes,” Unilyn answered. “I understand that you are to be 
congratulated, that you have cured him.”

“Well, he is not completely cured yet. But I think that he will 
recover. Actually it was Legolas who discovered the cause.”

“Legolas? He was always very clever.” Unilyn seemed uncomfortable in 
Alede’s presence and turned to go. “I see you have brought the king’s 
breakfast, I will leave you.”

“Uhm… thank you for staying with him. I… Unilyn…” the girl turned back 
and Alede tried to put her thoughts in order.

“I apologize,” Alede began. “For my behavior when I first arrived. I 
realize you were only trying to protect your king. Also,” she paused 
hoping to make a peace offering of a sort. “There is a salve which I 
make that heals scars. Even very old ones. It does not make them fade 
entirely, but it reduces the…”

She stopped speaking at the look of dismay on Unilyn’s face. The girl 
threw her hands over her face, the bracelets on her wrists clattering 
loudly on the quiet balcony.

“How could you?” Unilyn whispered. “Have I not suffered enough that 
strangers must gawk at me as well?”

“I meant no insult,” Alede tried to assure her. “I am a healer. It is 
my duty to tend the injured. And you have suffered much injury, 
Unilyn. I only mean to help.”

Unilyn slowly lowered her hands. “I am sorry. I…” the girl seemed to 
recover herself. “Perhaps I mistook your meaning. I thank you. I will 
try your salve.”

Alede nodded, “I will make some up this afternoon and have it brought 
to you.”

Alede walked with her to the door and as she turned away, she heard 
the curtains on the bed being pulled back. With a sigh of resolve, she 
braced herself for what she knew she would find.

“Ahh, the prison warden has arrived to keep me to my bed.” Thranduil 
said.

Taking a deep breath, Alede approached the bed. She would need all of 
her wits about her to deal with King Thranduil now that he was awake. 
Legolas, Franduil and she had all agreed that the King was not to know 
about Lomomir just yet.

While she had intended to serve his breakfast in bed, there was no 
reason he could not rise if he felt strong enough. And perhaps if she 
made a few concessions toward him, he might change his opinion of her.

“No indeed, my Lord,” she said referring to his remark and picking up 
a small table. “I will serve your breakfast on the balcony if your 
Majesty wishes it.”

The King looked surprised for a moment, but smoothly covered it up. 
“Then you seek to win my favor by being ingratiating, is that it?”

Alede turned away so that he would not see the frustration on her 
face. “Nay, my Lord.” She set the table on the balcony and came back 
for a chair. “I merely intend to give you an hours respite before I 
begin irritating you.”

She glanced at Thranduil out of the corner of her eye and saw the 
twitch of his lips.

“You use your humor to your advantage, Girl,” Thranduil remarked. 
Alede saw the light of challenge in his face. Perhaps Thranduil’s 
difficult nature stemmed from boredom and not malice. A brilliant 
intelligence lurked behind those intense eyes. Did he create conflict 
as a diversion for his active mind?

Alede did not think it safe to answer him, so instead she brought the 
King a warm pair of fur slippers and stood behind him to slip a heavy 
robe over his shoulders. As she did so, she thought of how different 
the King was from Legolas. Thranduil was large, almost bulky for an 
Elf and quite a bit taller. His hair was more golden, not as silvery 
colored as Legolas’. However, when he sat down in the chair she had 
placed on the balcony, Alede was struck by that same twilight color in 
his eyes. But the King’s eyes did not contain the same gentle 
thoughtfulness that Legolas’ typically held.

Caught for a moment in that piercing gaze, Alede blinked and hurried 
from the balcony to fetch the tray. Setting it before the King, she 
backed off a respectful distance and rather uncomfortably stood 
against the railing.

“Would you prefer that I leave you?” she asked hesitantly after a 
moment.

“No,” Thranduil looked up from the bread he was smearing liberally 
with honey. “Look out over my realm and tell me what you see.”

Alede took a deep breath. She knew the request was not as simple as it 
sounded. Thranduil obviously sought to test her and no doubt she would 
come up lacking.

Turning, she folded her hands on top of each other on the balcony rail 
so they would not flutter as she spoke.

“I see,” she began, clearing her throat. “The sun rising above the 
horizon and beginning to warm the tops of the trees. Trees, that have 
no doubt stood here since Middle Earth was first blessed by the 
Valar.” She paused, knowing he sought more from her. “I see patches of 
light and dark, that have nothing to do with the sun. Lightness 
pervades the forest here close to the kingdom. There are new leaves 
that have not been long unfurled, and bright flowers on the forest 
floor. I see,” she continued. “The ancient realm of an Elvin people 
virtually unchanged and untouched, save by patches of darkness that 
pervade even after the destruction of Sauron.”

She turned, knowing that her answer had been inadequate. Thranduil’s 
eyes were bright, but whether it was with cunning or some other 
unknown emotion, she could not tell.

“What do you hear?” he asked.

Turning once again, she looked out over the forest. “I hear the 
singing of birds, the faint murmur of your people, the morning breeze 
rustling a million leaves. I hear…” she closed her eyes, searching 
deeper for what ever meaning he asked of her. “The far off sounds of 
water rushing over rocks, the whisper of the trees as they greet the 
morning. I hear… a faint hum, like the vibration of the earth from all 
the living things that have sunk their roots into it…I…” she paused 
and opened her eyes. “I hear the song of Arda.”

Thranduil nodded once in acknowledgment. Alede noticed that he had 
finished off the porridge. He ate with good appetite and no apparent 
discomfort. He would recover and for that she was willing to undergo 
whatever battle of words he intended.

“What do you see and hear, my Lord?” she dared to ask.

Thranduil took a last bite of bread and came to stand beside her at 
the rail, clutching it tightly. For all his brave words, he was still 
weak. Lifting his head the breeze caught his golden hair, tossing it 
over his shoulder and away from his strong face. Rays of sunlight now 
reached past the horizon and made his skin glow. Alede was struck by 
what a handsome Elf he was. She had never noticed it before.

“I see,” he began. “The bones of Arda, the Misty Mountains far to the 
west. Eagles drop from their summits to hunt. I see the pulse of my 
land in every tree, in every leaf. The spirit of each living thing 
glows with its own inner fire and life. Where you see new leaves, I 
see the vibrancy of the Valar’s creation…”

As Alede listened she realized that she’d been wrong about Thranduil. 
He was every bit as wise and cultured as Elrond. But where the Lord of 
Rivendell had been quiet and soft spoken in his speech, Thranduil was 
vibrant and charismatic. Alede could easily believe that he could sway 
an audience with the power of his voice and his passion. Forgetting 
their animosity, Alede let his words flow through her, awakening her 
soul to the elvish world that he saw so clearly.

“Beneath it all is the melody of Illuvatar, which weaves it’s tunes 
throughout all of our being, throughout all that we do.”

Alede stood transfixed even after he ceased speaking. Thranduil turned 
to her.

“And before me, I see,” he continued. “A young woman only barely aware 
of that which I speak. A woman incapable of fully understanding the 
complexities of Illuvatar’s creation, because of her youth and because 
of her heritage.”

Alede recoiled. His words stung as sharply as if he’d slapped her.

“Do not mistake my meaning,” Thranduil continued. His voice was softer 
now, but if he sought not to hurt her, it was too late. “I am grateful 
for what you have done. And you shall be rewarded for it. I am even 
willing to admit that I may have been mistaken in my opinion of you. 
But know this, I will not allow you to have my son. You may be of good 
character and are obviously a skilled healer. But Legolas is, as I am. 
He is too far above your station. He will rule one day and our 
kingdoms will survive this age of men. But do not set yourself up to 
be his queen, for it will never come to pass. I will not allow it to 
come to pass.”

No words came to Alede as she starred up at him. Hurt and anger 
crowded her mind. Thranduil turned to leave her and only then did she 
find her voice.

“You need not fear, your Majesty. For Legolas does not love me. But 
neither should you judge me so harshly. The Istari were sent here by 
the Valar to guide the Children of Illuvatar. While I may be of mixed 
lineage, I am still of that race. And I have learned a lesson which 
you would do well to consider.”

“And what is that, child?” Thranduil asked with a contemptuous curl of 
his lip.

“Compassion, my Lord. One’s strength is not measured by the force of 
their arms or the might of one’s kingdom. True strength is measured by 
the depth of one’s love. And in that regard, I am already a queen.”

“Think not to lecture me, girl,” Thranduil snapped. But Alede noticed 
once again the gleam of challenge in his intense eyes. “I have loved 
more than you could ever possibly know. And I know more of compassion 
than you could ever realize in your short life.” With those words, he 
turned and went back inside.

Alede stood on the balcony long after he had left her.

*********

“Wee!” Cried little Thrania as Legolas jumped Arod over a fallen log. 
Legolas grinned. Thrania had both her arms stuck out as if they were 
wings. Arod’s bright mane washed over her little legs and the grin on 
her face rivaled his own.

Legolas turned the great horse. Adjusting his grip around Thrania’s 
waist more securely, he urged Arod into a run. They flew down the 
forest path like the wind. The only sound was the horse’s pounding 
hooves and the little girl’s cries of delight.

After a while, Legolas dismounted and while walking close to Arod, let 
Thrania guide him. She babbled happily about horses and wrapped her 
little hands in Arod’s silky mane. Legolas was loath to end their 
ride, but he needed to talk again with Franduil and then with Alede. 
Reluctantly he asked Arod to follow him back to the palace.

*********

“I see that the King recovers,” Princess Elvothien said quietly as 
Alede closed the door behind her.

Alede turned in the hallway to glance at the fair she-Elf. “Yes, he’s 
doing well,” she said, her voice catching in the throat.

“But you are not,” Elvothien observed.

Alede gave her a brave smile that faltered. “I’m afraid that despite 
my every effort, the King does not approve of my company.”

“There are many he does not approve of.” Elvothien linked her arm 
companionably in Alede’s and the young wizardess felt herself relax.

“I am not certain if I should be relieved or not,” Alede said. “Though 
apparently I am in good company?”

Elvothien laughed softly. “He does not care for me either. Though I 
believe he approves of me as a wife for his son. But, he…” she paused 
for words. “Thranduil enjoys making life difficult. Tell me, what did 
he quarrel with you about?”

Alede glanced away as she felt a blush stain her cheeks.

“Legolas?” Elvothien enquired gently.

“Does everyone know how I feel about him?” Alede asked with 
embarrassment.

“I do not know. I can guess though and it was obvious when Legolas 
first arrived, how he felt about you.”

Alede’s head came up. “It is not obvious to me.”

“No?” and the Princess gave her a cryptic smile. “Then I will say 
nothing.”

“But…”

“Nay, it is not my place.

Alede rubbed her forehead. “Well… I think I will return to my room, 
then. I have a bit of a headache.”

“If I might make a suggestion…” Elvothien said.

“Yes?”

“There is a waterfall to the west of the palace. My husband and 
Legolas have often gone there to swim. It is a very soothing place…”

Alede nodded. “I may have seen Legolas walking there this morning.”

“No one would be there at this time of day,” Elvothien continued. “It 
might relieve your headache. The water is very refreshing.”

“Thank you. That sounds heavenly.”

*********

Alede set her bundle down on a rock that overlooked the pool. It was 
indeed a beautiful place. Ferns draped down from the rock walls and 
the waterfall fell at one end with sufficient force to send ripples 
out across the whole pool. Another smaller fall led down into the 
stream that fed the palace.

Alede looked around, scanning the area but she could see no one. *Not 
that, that means anything,* she thought with a bit of embarrassment.

Climbing down the boulder, she pushed her way into a thicket of tall 
ferns and slowly removed her clothing. The feel of the sun on her bare 
skin was heavenly though, and she soon lost her shyness. Skirting the 
high rock, she waded into the cool water and once she was out deep 
enough, plunged in.

She surfaced with a gasp, for the water was cold. But not so cold as 
to be uncomfortable. Laughing, she rolled onto her back and kicked 
hard, sending showers of water up into the air. The sun shone through 
the droplets like tiny rainbows and Alede felt her tensions melt away.

She swam and played and let the water float Thranduil’s cruel words 
away. She would still need to find Legolas later, but for now the roar 
of the waterfall washed all thoughts from her mind. Relaxing, she 
pulled herself up onto a boulder half submerged on the far side of the 
pool and combed her long hair out with her fingers. She sat still with 
her legs trailing in the water, letting the sun warm her skin. She 
looked for all the world like a mythical mermaid. Because her face was 
turned up toward the sun and because she was not Elvin, she did not 
notice the movement on the path. Nor did she see the eyes that watched 
her.

After a while Alede swam back across the lake and wrapped herself in 
the cloth she’d brought down with her. She found another perch in the 
sun, this time a dry one and brushed the tangles from her hair. By the 
time her hair was dry, she was starting to feel a little sunburned and 
quickly dressed.

She rolled her brush up in the bundle of cloth and took one last look 
around the pool. It was a beautiful place, perhaps she’d visit it 
again.

She started off down the path toward the palace. Movement made her 
head whip around and then a voice, seemingly from nowhere spoke.

“You should not have come here alone.”

Alede gasped and the damp bundle fell from her arms into the dirt at 
her feet.

*********

Chapter 11 “Arrow’s Flight” coming up next weekend. Thanks for reading 
and keep those reviews coming! They really help, plus that’s how I 
find new authors to read!! :) ~Nebride

List of Original Characters:

Lomomir: Mirkwood’s Healer and Thranduil’s youngest brother.

Unilyn: A young she-Elf, probably about Legolas’ age. She is Legolas’ 
former lover.

Prince Franduil: King Thranduil’s second son. He is now the crown 
prince, due to the oldest son’s death in the War of Five Armies.

Princess Elvothien: Wife of Prince Franduil and sister-in-law to 
Legolas.

Elvomir: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little boy. Nephew to 
Legolas.

Hithrawyn: A warrior sent to guard Alede

Thrania: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little girl. Twin to Elvomir 
and niece to Legolas. He affectionately calls her Nia. 
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
----------





*** “ [ “ indicates the contents of a written letter. “ * ” indicates 
unspoken thought. ***



Evil Old Woman: Thank you so much for your comments. Don’t worry; 
while you’ve been reading chap. 10, I’ve been writing chap. 14. So 
we’ve still got a lot happening before the end… lots of time for 
Legolas and Alede to figure out how they feel. Stick with me. I’ll 
think you’ll be surprised and hopefully pleased by the ending! BTW, I 
realize that I have not explained well enough the difference between 
green magic and the magic that Gandalf wields. I’ll have to think that 
over… Green magic is used by village healers, its what we think of as 
old fashioned (bubble, bubble toil and trouble) witch craft. It is 
considered very “rustic and primitive” and a wizard would never use it 
or learn it. Alede is more versed in Green magic than wizardry, since 
she was a bit of a “drop out” at Orthanc. Does this make any sense or 
am I just babbling here? lol

For all you other wonderful, wonderful Readers/Reviewers: Thank you 
soooooo much. I read every review and take it quite seriously. Your 
comments are inspiring and helpful.

“The Caverns of Mirkwood”

Chapter 11

Arrow’s Flight





[Dear Gimli,

I sincerely hope that you are jesting with me, my friend. While I know 
from your ale that Dwarves have a rather indiscriminate palette, this 
is beyond even my worst expectations. No wonder your race is so 
stunted. When I return I’ll introduce you to some real food.

I thank you for the advice for my father. He is out of danger now and 
so am I. You need not be concerned, as the culprit has been caught. I 
will write more once I understand his motives.

Legolas]

*********

“Legolas!” Alede exclaimed furiously. Obviously she’d identified his 
voice after her initial fright.

“You should not have come here alone.”

“You said that already,” Alede reminded him as she bent to pick up her 
bundle. “I hate it when you sneak up on me! You frightened the life 
out of me.”

“Did I?” he chuckled as he watched her from his perch. She 
straightened up and looked around.

“Curse it! Where are you?”

“Here.”

She looked up, nearly looking right at him, but she still did not see 
him. Grinning, Legolas let one foot dangle down from the branch. 
Seeing it, she walked around the trunk of the tree and glared up at 
him, her fists resting on her hips.

“How long have you been here?” she asked.

“Long enough.” He raised mischievous brows at her. “I did not realize 
that our lake had a mermaid.”

“Ohh!!” Alede dumped her bundle on the ground again and snatched 
something up off the path.

“Alede, I…” Legolas suddenly had to duck as a very well thrown acorn 
shot past his head.

Laughing, he leapt down from the branch lightly. “Such a prickly 
temper you have.”

“You frightened me and you were watching me!”

“With good reason.” The breeze tossed a lock of her hair across her 
face and Legolas reached out, tucking it behind her ear. “You came 
down here without even your staff.”

“I came here for a swim, not to perform magic.”

“You should have been more careful.”

“It is daylight so I need not fear Orcs and Lomomir is locked away.” 
She shrugged. “There is no threat.”

“Isn’t there?” he asked. Taking hold of her arm, he turned her and 
pointed deep into the forest. “Do you see it?”

Alede squinted and followed his finger. She started to shake her head 
and then gasped.

Legolas nodded. “Yes, a spider and it has been watching you as long as 
I have. This is still Mirkwood forest Alede, and it is always 
dangerous.”

“I… I had forgotten. It would not have attacked during the day, would 
it?”

“Not while you were in the water, but after you came out it might 
have.”

“Will it…?” But Alede’s words were cut off as Legolas suddenly whipped 
an arrow from his quiver and let it fly. The spider dropped with its 
legs curled up, his arrow lodged in it’s head.

Alede let out her breath beside him and Legolas glanced down at her. 
The spider had not moved to attack them. But it was much too close to 
the palace and spiders were the only creature beside Orcs that Legolas 
would kill without mercy or reason.

This would be a good time to speak with her. He was a little surprised 
by how difficult it was. What he to say… would be asking a lot. Would 
she understand? But first he needed her promise.

“Please, Alede. If you return here, have Hithrawyn accompany you if I 
am unavailable. I don’t want you to be alone in the woods.”

“Apparently I wasn’t,” she retorted.

“Hmm?” he asked. His mind had been trying to formulate words and he 
had missed what she said.

“I wasn’t alone. You were watching me.”

“Ah, yes… Is that a blush, I see?” he asked, teasing her gently. Alede 
turned her head and Legolas caught her chin so that he might better 
joke with her. But when those soulful eyes looked up into his, he 
forgot whatever jest he planned to make. He also forgot his carefully 
planned speech.

Sunlight shown on her face, accenting the spattering of freckles on 
her nose and the green of her eyes. Her lips were parted slightly and 
suddenly everything that Legolas had decided vanished from his mind.

Still with one finger tucked beneath her chin, he leaned forward. He 
saw her eyes widen in surprise as she guessed his intent. And then a 
sound intruded on his Elvin senses… a sound that sent prickles of 
alarm racing up his spine.

Without even thinking, he threw himself to the ground, taking Alede. 
She landed with a cry of dismay beneath him. Legolas rolled off of her 
and surged to his feet, drawing his bow even as he rose.

Behind him, an arrow quivered in the trunk of a tree. Legolas scanned 
the forest. Movement on the crest of a hill, alerted him.

“Stay here,” he hissed to Alede and sprinted toward the spot. But by 
the time he reached the hill, the attacker had gone. There was no sign 
even of trodden plants. Legolas made a thorough search, and then 
circled back to where he’d left Alede.

She was nowhere in sight. Ignoring all caution, he shouted her name.

“I’m here,” she said slipping out of a cluster of trees behind him.

“I told you not to follow me! You could have been injured!” He put an 
arm around her shoulders, pulling her close. Over the top of her head, 
he continued to scan the forest.

“I am well. But who could have done that?” she asked fearfully. “That 
arrow struck the tree right where you were standing! Who ever he was 
might have shot you as you raced toward him.”

“He was too busy fleeing to shoot me,” Legolas said, hearing the 
fright in her voice. He released her and pulled the arrow from the 
tree and examined it.

“Does it tell you anything? Who would shoot at you? Are we wrong about 
Lomomir?” Alede asked.

“I don’t know,” he said shaking his head. “I do not recognize the 
pattern of the fletching. It could be from the practice field, in 
which case anyone could have taken it. But they have a longer draw 
than I do.”

Alede wrinkled her brow. “How can you tell?”

He held the notch end of the arrow between two fingers and placed it 
against his cheek, laying the rest of the arrow out against his other 
arm as it would be on a bow. Turning he showed it to Alede. The tip of 
the arrow went well past his fingers.

“That is not much to go by.”

“Still, it is something. Come; let us get back to the palace. I fear 
something has happened. Stay close.”

Legolas dropped into a crouch and led them off the path and into the 
deep undergrowth. Alede moved more quietly than a human would, but she 
was much too noisy for an Elf.

He turned and whispered to her. “Watch where I place my feet and step 
in the same place.”

She was about to reply, but a slight noise in the trees interrupted 
them. Alede froze, looking up at him with wide eyes. Legolas scanned 
the forest, holding his breath and reaching out with all of his 
senses. What ever made the sound moved as silently as an Elf and made 
use of the thick foliage.

He signaled them to move on, but Alede shook her head and motioned him 
near. He bent down and her warm breath tickled his ear, giving him 
shivers.

“Go on without me,” she whispered so softly he could barely hear her. 
“I cannot move as quietly and will give you away. You have a better 
chance without me. Go on.”

He shook his head adamantly and took her hand, pulling her along. They 
reached the palace without any further problem, though twice they 
stopped while Legolas scanned the trees around them.

“Did you see who it was?” Alede asked with a shaky voice, once they 
crossed the threshold of the palace.

“No, they kept to cover that even I could not see through.”

“Legolas… how did you know?” Alede asked and when Legolas turned to 
her, he could see that she was on the verge of tears. “I mean the 
arrow,” she continued. “How did you know someone was shooting at you?”

“I heard the arrow’s flight.”

“You…” Alede stopped dead. “I did not know that was possible, even for 
Elves. You could have been killed,” and her voice ended in a little 
sob.

Legolas put an arm around her and pulled her close. “The War of the 
Ring honed my skill. Do not be concerned. Now,” he let go of her. “I 
need to gather warriors to comb the woods…”

“My Lord!” A page came running down the great stairs. “My Lord, we’ve 
been looking for you! Lomomir has escaped!”

*********

Alede had to run to keep up with Legolas. Franduil was in Lomomir’s 
room when they arrived, but he was obviously just leaving.

“Legolas! Thank the Valar they found you! I have been worried.”

“When did Lomomir escape?”

“We do not know, sometime during the morning. His absence was 
discovered when his midday meal was brought and the two guards 
stationed on his balcony are unconscious.” Franduil turned to Alede. 
“Lady, if you would be willing…?”

But Alede was already moving toward the balcony. She knelt beside the 
two Elves. They were completely out and their faces were ashen.

*Heartbeat is much too slow,* Alede thought with a frown. When she 
leaned over to listen to their breathing she noticed a powdery 
substance on one of the guards faces. Wiping it off with her finger, 
Alede examined the white powder. She touched it to her tongue and then 
immediately stood up and spat off the balcony.

“Alede?” Legolas joined her after finishing his conversation with 
Franduil.

“Asgolath powder,” she said turning back to him.

“What is it? Will they be alright?”

“I think so,” she said with a worried frown. “The Asgolath plant is of 
the Nightshade family. The roots, when ground to a powder are 
extremely toxic when ingested. But in this case, it appears that 
Lomomir threw the powder in their faces. Inhaled, it rendered them 
unconscious, but I don’t think it has done any permanent damage. I’ll 
need to get my bag and my staff.”

“I’ll come with you. I need to speak with Father. Franduil goes to 
order out the troops for a search.”

They left Lomomir’s rooms and Legolas continued. “The guards outside 
Lomomir’s door heard nothing and his bow and sword are gone.”

“Oh dear…” Alede sighed.

“Yes. I’m worried for Father. Franduil already tried to speak with 
him. Apparently Father’s guards’ heard loud voices in his room, but 
when they asked if he was alright, he was alone and he denied it to 
Franduil.”

“Indeed?” Alede said, puzzled. “Do you think Lomomir went to your 
Father’s room?”

The young prince shrugged. “I don’t know what to think yet.” He 
stopped outside Alede’s door. “I’ll send for Hithrawyn to watch over 
you. Be careful Alede.”

She caught his arm before he could turn away. “You be careful as well. 
And don’t forget, we must find the female Greymalcin. She could still 
be used against your family.”

Legolas nodded. “After I speak with Father.”

*********

“How are you feeling Father?” Legolas asked quietly as he entered the 
King’s chambers.

“Ah Legolas,” Thranduil stood up carefully, griping the edge of his 
desk as he did so. “I wondered when you’d come to see me, Son.”

Legolas laughed without mirth. “I’ve seen you many times, Father. 
You’ve just been asleep and therefore did not see me.”

“Yes, I know. You and Franduil have had a difficult time of it. I am 
grateful for your vigilance.” Thranduil held out his arms and Legolas 
gladly embraced him. He was amazed at how such a simple gesture could 
transport him back to his boyhood. Inhaling his father’s clean scent 
and being wrapped in his warm arms made him remember times long ago. 
The King had been Legolas’ entire world when he was young and he’d 
loved him without thought or reservation. But that was long ago before 
Legolas had come of age and they’d begun arguing about everything, 
long ago when the prince’s life had been so simple.

They released each other and Legolas stepped back. There were tears in 
the prince’s eyes and his father touched the side of his face.

“Be at ease, Son,” Thranduil said softly. “I am well and I regain my 
strength. I thank you for the part you played in my healing.”

“Alede is the one…”

“Nay,” Thranduil said holding up a hand. “Franduil told me that it was 
you who remembered the Greymalcin. I should have remembered it myself. 
You begged me to read that book to you so many times, I’m surprised 
that it is not permanently etched into my memory.”

“Yes,” Legolas said slowly. This was not going to be easy to discuss 
with him. “And you know that, that book is missing?”

Thranduil shrugged. “What of it? Some other child with a morbid 
curiosity no doubt took it.”

“But Father, that book contained information on the Greymalcin as did 
the book that Alede carried when she was pushed over the railing. 
Lomomir hid it…”

“Yes, yes,” Thranduil said impatiently. The soft fatherly voice was 
replaced by that of an irritated king. “Franduil told me of your 
little theory concerning my brother.”

“But…”

“But nothing. It is nonsense. All of it.”

“Then how do you explain the Greymalcin, Father?”

Thranduil shrugged. “They are cave dwelling creatures. Obviously one 
found its way into the food stores in the caverns. If you wish to do 
something useful, then search for the beast and kill it so that no one 
else is harmed.”

“I intend to. Alede and I will search later today.”

“There is no need to take her. The caverns are no place for a woman.”

Legolas snorted. “I doubt that Alede will be daunted by the caverns. 
And what of the figure I saw in the caverns? Franduil told you of 
that, did he not?”

“Hmm…” Thranduil considered. “I suppose it is possible we have a 
thief. Wine has been stolen from the caverns before. Once I am healed, 
I will…”

“Thief?” Legolas said incredulously. “It is no thief we seek Father! 
It is Lomomir! He meant me harm in the caverns, he attacked Alede 
twice, he stole two books concerning Greymalcins and just this 
afternoon he nearly put an arrow through me!”

Thranduil flinched. The arrow was news to him. But to Legolas’ 
astonishment, Thranduil dismissed it.

“A stray arrow. Perhaps someone was practicing and it ricocheted or 
perhaps it was the thief.”

“Father! This morning your own guards heard loud voices in your room, 
when supposedly you were alone.”

“Do you now believe the word of the guards over that of your own 
father, Legolas?”

“I know not what to believe. But I think it possible that you seek to 
cover up Lomomir’s…”

“Silence!” Thranduil bellowed. “I will have no more of this 
foolishness about my brother! You will tell Franduil to call off the 
search for him. Lomomir often wanders in the woods seeking medicinal 
herbs, you know that. No doubt that is where he has gone. The other 
matters are coincidence. Dismiss them.”

Legolas gaped at him. *Thranduil was protecting Lomomir! Could his 
love of his brother blind him so much that he’d risk his life for 
him?*

Legolas started to speak again, but the look on his father’s face 
forbid it. Fuming, Legolas turned toward the door; obviously he was 
wasting his time here.

“Legolas,” Thranduil said in a gentler voice, causing his son to turn 
back around. “Heed my warning about the healer, Alede. She seeks to 
bewitch you.”

The prince shook his head. “Father, you misjudge her. She intends no 
harm. You do not know the kindness of her heart.”

“I admit that I judged her too harshly, son. But beware. She would 
imprison you with her love.”

“Nay Father,” Legolas shook his head. “Her love sets me free.”

*********

“How did your father take the news?” Alede asked with concern as 
Legolas stepped out of his father’s chambers. She and Hithrawyn had 
been waiting for him.

“He denies it.”

“What?”

“I think he seeks to protect Lomomir.”

“But that could cost him his life!” Alede was astonished.

“I know, I know…” Legolas cast a glance back at his father’s door.

Alede reached out and squeezed his arm reassuringly. “Give me a 
moment,” she said softly. “I need to check on him anyway. Perhaps I 
can persuade him…”

“No,” Legolas caught her hand and turned her away. They began walking 
toward the hall and the caverns below. “He is well enough to argue and 
appears in no discomfort. I don’t want you going in there while he is 
in such a mood.”

“But…”

“Please Alede. I would not have him argue with you as well.”

“Very well,” Alede conceded. She did not tell him that she’d already 
had a sample of Thranduil’s mood that very morning.

Beside her, Legolas sighed. “I have not been this frustrated or 
worried since we lost the young hobbits to the Orcs. I wanted so badly 
to press on, but Aragorn held us back. I knew he was right, but my 
heart plagued me to keep going. It is like that now. I know that my 
father is in grave danger. I’ve increased the guards that surround 
him, yet still someone slipped into his room today.”

“I’m so sorry. I wish I could help.”

“You have. More than you know.” Legolas gave her shoulders a quick 
squeeze.

Alede smiled up at him, “I have a bit of good news for you. The two 
guards on Lomomir’s balcony have recovered and will be fine. I sent 
them to rest. I know I don’t have the authority, but at the moment, 
I’m the only healer here.”

“You did correctly. I am relieved that they will be well.”

“It was actually rather ingenious. I have never heard of Asgolath 
being used in such a way.”

“Let us hope that it will not be used again.”

*********

Alede waited nervously as the Guardsmaster, Nilmand lit a torch to 
lead them into the dungeons. She really did not wish to be back down 
here and kept a tight grip on her staff. The only person who looked 
more nervous than herself was Legolas. He was actually fidgeting.

“Has anyone ever asked to borrow the keys?” Alede asked.

“No,” was the stiff reply from the Guardsmaster. Obviously he hadn’t 
forgotten her from her last visit.

“Have the keys ever gone missing?”

“No.”

Alede impatiently brushed a lock of hair out of her eyes. “Has anyone 
ever gotten in here that shouldn’t have?”

“No,” the Guardsmaster said fixing her with an irritable look. “And no 
one has ever escaped except an Istari witch.”

“That’s not quite true,” she said levelly as they made their way down 
the dim corridor. “I seem to remember hearing that one Hobbit and 
several Dwarves escaped. As well as that nasty creature Gollum.”

The entire party stopped as Nilmand glared at her.

Alede raised an innocent brow. “Shall we continue?” she asked.

Nilmand again led the way, his back rigid with indignation. Once 
inside the actual dungeon, they took torches and separated to look 
into each cell.

“Look in all the corners,” Legolas instructed. “It will most likely 
have made a nest of sorts, usually out of cloth and dung if they can 
find it, or maybe even straw. It will be small, no larger than a fist. 
They look human almost, with an oversized head and black skin.”

“Don’t kill it,” Alede added.

Legolas raised a brow at her.

She shrugged. “I suspect the only way someone could collect its spoors 
would be to feed it.”

“And it will recognize the one who fed it, should my father require 
proof,” Legolas finished grimly.

Alede nodded. She’d been unwilling to voice that opinion, but was 
relieved that Legolas understood her meaning.

The three elves moved off and a moment later, Alede heard Legolas’ 
voice.

“Guardsmaster, is it not customary to keep the individual cells 
locked?”

“Nay, your Highness. We’ve not done that since your Highness has been 
grown.”

Curious, Alede went to join them. “Why were the cells locked?”

“Well,” Nilmand looked a bit uncomfortable. “When his Highness was a 
boy, he and a few friends wandered down here to explore a bit…”

“And I accidentally shut myself into one of the cells,” Legolas 
finished. “By the time Nilmand found me I was panic stricken. I have 
not cared for underground places since.”

Alede glanced at him sharply noticing the shudder that passed through 
his lithe frame. She wondered how he survived the Mines of Moria if 
caverns made him so uncomfortable.

A shout from Hithrawyn alerted them and they went running. Hithrawyn 
met them at the doorway. “I found it! It is just as you said, my 
Lord.”

Alede pushed past him and put a hand over her nose as she stepped into 
the dark cell. The smell was intense. Hithrawyn shown his torch on the 
back corner and a dark object scuttled into a pile of rags and filth.

Lighting her staff, Alede crept closer, Legolas right beside her.

“Uhg, that’s it,” she confirmed as the light revealed the hideous 
creature. It crowded in a corner; it’s head outrageously large for 
it’s little black body. Tiny clawed hands clenched and unclenched as 
the Greymalcin blinked beady eyes at them. Sharp fangs snapped and the 
needle thin egg tube hung down behind the creature and lashed from 
side to side like a miniature tail.

“Look how large it is,” Alede said. “Someone has been feeding it. 
Feeding it for a long time. And it’s obviously a female.”

“Now what do we do?” Hithrawyn asked, a look of complete disgust on 
his face.

“Well, we need to catch it.” She turned to the Guardsmaster. “Is there 
something we could use as a cage? Something it couldn’t chew through?” 
Nilmand looked bewildered. “A fish trap, perhaps?” she prompted.

“Oh, yes,” he nodded and left the cell quickly.

Alede turned back to the two elves who were obviously waiting for her 
lead. “Don’t look at me,” she said. “I imagine it will take Elvish 
reflexes to catch it. Try to get it by the neck though. They have a 
nasty bite and watch out for the claws.”

She ignored the two disgusted looks that she received, though secretly 
the following few moments were a bit amusing. She learned a few Elvish 
curse words that she hadn’t heard before and a few others she 
suspected Legolas had learned from his friend Gimli.

“I didn’t realize you spoke Dwarvish so well, Legolas,” she remarked 
as he stood up with the slimy creature.

“Your Greymalcin,” he said irritably. Alede dropped her staff clumsily 
as Legolas pushed the snapping demon into her hands.

“Uhg!”

“My thoughts exactly.” Legolas picked up her staff and stalked from 
the cell rather like an indignant cat.

*********

A/N: Its time that Alede learned archery herself! And who better to 
teacher her than Legolas? A bit of a break from all the tension, with 
some laughter and a little teasing. But don’t miss when a new suspect 
tries to steal the Greymalcin! Coming next weekend in Chapter 12 
“Lessons Learned and Lessons Missed”. Don’t forget to review! Your 
comments are so important to me! :) ~Nebride

List of Original Characters:

Lomomir: Mirkwood’s Healer and Thranduil’s youngest brother.

Unilyn: A young she-Elf, probably about Legolas’ age. She is Legolas’ 
former lover.

Prince Franduil: King Thranduil’s second son. He is now the crown 
prince, due to the oldest son’s death in the War of Five Armies.

Princess Elvothien: Wife of Prince Franduil and sister-in-law to 
Legolas.

Elvomir: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little boy. Nephew to 
Legolas.

Hithrawyn: A warrior sent to guard Alede

Thrania: Prince Franduil and Evlothien’s little girl. Twin to Elvomir 
and niece to Legolas. He affectionately calls her Nia. 
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