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| Neithawen's Deception |
| 13. Discoveries |
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Neithawen looked up as the door to Melindins house opened quickly. She saw Legolas come in, a look of concern on his face. When he saw that she was awake, his face lit up in a beautiful smile. You are awake, my friend, he said, making his way toward the bed with fluid grace. How are you feeling? Much better, thanks to Melindins caring healing, Neithawen said, struggling to sit up. Her side ached with a deep, lasting pain. She moaned, and a concerned light filled Legolas eyes. His hand immediately found her back and helped her into a sitting position. Melindin came over from the fireplace carrying a kettle of hot water and three cups. She placed them on the table by Neithawens bed, and said, Tea, anyone? Ive been cravin some, meself. She glanced up and Neithawen and smiled. I should love some tea, Melindin. I thank you. Neithawens eyes moved to Legolas face. His eyes, while bright, were etched with lines of concern. He watched Melindin pour the tea, and when she offered him a glass, he took it and smiled, not saying a word. Handing a cup to Neithawen, Melindin said, Why so silent, dear? Cat got your tongue? Legolas looked at her in confusion, but overlooked the odd question and said, I am just thinking. And very glad that Teleadan is alive. He glanced at Neithawen, the happiness apparent in his eyes. He set down his teacup and grasped her hand in his own. My dear friend, I am happy. Have no worries. But Neithawen saw the concern behind his smile. Somehow, she didnt think it had to do with her health. Not directly, anyway. Neithawen smiled at Legolas then turned to Melindin. How long will it be until I am able to travel again? We must get back underway. Melindins brow wrinkled as she thought. Well, with the herbs I used, hmm, you should be back on your feet within the day, young Teleadan. She winked at Neithawen so that only she could see. But whether youll be well enough to travel is another thing altogether. Maybe by tomorrow morning, at the earliest. And that depends on how much rest you get today. Melindin smiled. She stood slowly and picked up the teakettle. But knowing you, my dear, youll be wantin to leave tonight. That I cannot allow. She smiled and moved back over to the fireplace. Legolas turned to Neithawen and said, I must go and tell the others how you are, and that we shall camp here until tomorrow morning. You will be all right with out me, yes? Neithawen nodded. I will be fine with some bed rest, I am sure. Melindin will care for me. All right. I shall depart at once. I will see that the men find a safe place to camp, then I will be back here. Yes, Legolas. I will see you soon. Legolas smiled and suddenly cupped his hand softly around his friends face. Neithawen closed her eyes and turned her face toward his hand, smiling softly. Legolas paused for a moment, leaving his hand on Neithawens face. He had seen that exact look before. Her face cupped in his handthat night out in the gardens. The memory shone like the bright moon on a clear night. Neithawen. He looked at the elf who had stolen his heart. How could I have not seen? Deciding to keep the secret to himself for the moment, Legolas let his hand drop to his side and stood up. Rest well, my friend. He turned to Melindin. Thank you for all that you have done for us. I am in your debt forever, my good lady. He moved to her and kissed her on the cheek. Her face broke into a smile. Ah, twas my pleasure, dear. Now you go and tell those other boys whats happenin before theyre sick with worry. Legolas smiled and turned to the door. He paused for a moment, and as Neithawen watched, she was strongly reminded of the day in the castle. But, like that day, he said nothing, but opened the door and was gone. *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Legolas rode Araroh through the woods to the East. Araroh was still tired from the ride to Melindins house, so Legolas did not push him. Instead, he let the horse go at its own pace, leaving Legolas to think. How could I have been so blind? he thought to himself. Her feminine features alone should have given it away. But as he recalled her face in his mind, he could see how hed been deceived. She had disguised herself very well. But he still chided himself for not seeing sooner. It all makes sense, he thought. He played all his memories of the journey with Teleadan back in his head. At the very beginning, when he had wanted to see Neithawen one more time before he left, Teleadan had discouraged him from going. And then later when they had first met Melindin, she had seen Neithawen and known immediately that she was no male. But why? That was what Legolas didnt understand. Why had Neithawen, beautiful daughter of a warrior and friend of the King, dressed as a male elf and come along for such a dangerous journey? Legolas pondered this for a moment, but could not come up with an answer that made any sense. Pulling the blue cloth from his tunic, Legolas smelled it. It smelled unmistakably of Neithawen. He felt a fool for not knowing before. No matter, he thought, a mischievous smile growing on his beautiful face. If she can trick me, then I can trick her. The smile broadened into a grin as he thought of a plan. *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Harloss keen elf ears picked up the sound of hoof beats to the West. As Legolas appointed leader, Harloss was to make sure that anyone coming was not an enemy. He kneed his horse forward and concealed himself in the bushes by the road. When he saw that it was Legolas who approached, Harloss came out of the brush and greeted him. Harloss, is all well? Legolas asked. Yes, everything is fine here. And what of Teleadan? Is he well? Harloss queried with concern in his voice. He will be fine, but he must rest at Melindins cottage for tonight. She will not allow him to travel before then. I will not go on without him, but I give you the choice to take the men further, or to camp the night and depart in the morning. M-me, my Prince? I could not make such a--a vital decision in your place. Harloss eyes filled with apprehension. Harloss, friend, I would not have left you in charge if I had doubted your ability to choose. You must do this for me. Legolas placed a hand on Harloss shoulder. I have faith in you. Harloss considered both possibilities. To wait would mean to lose more ground, something that they had already lost too much of during the battle with the orcs. They could not really afford to lose any more. You will be with Teleadan, and you will catch up quickly? By the midday after next, at the latest, Legolas assured. Then we will go on. Please have a safe journey. I thank you, and may you have a safe one as well. You make a fine leader, Harloss. Harloss smiled as Legolas moved away. Please tell the elves what the plan is and not to worry for Teleadan. All is well for him. Yes, my Prince. See you soon. Harloss watched Legolas back as he rode smoothly away, until the Prince was out of sight. Then he turned back to the crowd of elves who were anxiously awaiting any news. He raised his voice for all to hear. Teleadan lives! The voices of the company echoed the words. It became a chant as Harloss moved to the front lines and motioned the soldiers on. |
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