The Shadow Walker

95. Life Goes On

I awoke to Legolas getting up. Groaning, I threw an arm over my eyes. "Where you going?" I mumbled.

His movement paused. "I need to speak with Adar, and I thought I'd send your maid with some fresh clothes. Your dress last night was lovely, but it looked burdensome."

"All right." I pulled the blankets up to my chin and burrowed into the pillows again. If he was in a hurry to leave such a comfortable bed, I'd keep it company in his absence.

Legolas chuckled and leaned over to kiss my cheek. "By the way, good morning, my lovely wife."

Despite my grogginess, I couldn't hide a smile. "Good morning, Legolas."

He rose, and I heard him getting dressed. "I'll be back in a little while, love." His footsteps traveled to the door, which creaked as it opened, then clicked shut.

Legolas

After sending Larika to my room to tend Eda, I walked toward Adar's study. An overwhelming new affection for my wife swirled around in my mind, as well as a much deeper concern for the immediate future, and her safety. I needed council, and I had a new respect for Adar's life experience.

The study door was cracked—which meant he was working, but he wanted to talk. "Adar?" I knocked and pushed it open a couple more inches.

He sat on one of the sofas, staring into the fire. Looking at me, he swiftly rose and opened the door. "Legolas..."

I stared at the floor. I felt like a different person than I was this time yesterday.

Adar pulled me into a tight hug. "It's nothing to be ashamed of, ion. I am very proud of you." Pulling back, he studied me. "All is well?"

Nodding, I stepped in and closed the door behind me. "Yes, except—I've felt nothing in the way of a spiritual bond. Nothing's wrong," I hurried to clarify, "it's just...I thought it would be more noticeable."

A frown marred Adar's smooth brow. "It is noticeable—or it should be."

We were silent for a moment, and I considered the implications of this. Perhaps Eru didn't bless our marriage? "What do you think I should do?"

He sighed and met my gaze. "It may be because of her mortal blood. But frankly Legolas, I wouldn't worry about it. She's your wife now, and I've seen how you love each other. An Elven bond is ideal, but...perhaps not possible, in this scenario."

I nodded and decided not to worry...about that. "There is also the matter of Gondor."

"I haven't forgotten," Adar murmured. He beckoned me to the sofas and sat, propping his boots up on the low table. "You place a great deal of faith in the ranger."

I sat also, resting my elbows on my knees. "He deserves it."

A long silence ensued. Finally, Adar murmured, "Is there anything I can say to convince you to remain with your wife in Mirkwood?"

I was tempted—oh so tempted. But I shook my head. "No, Adar. I cannot hide from the fate of Middle Earth."

He caught and held my gaze. "And Eda?"

I ran a hand through my hair, catching a few tangles. "I'll ask her to remain here, or in Erebor. And she'll refuse."

A smile played on his mouth, and he nodded. "I'm not surprised." With a sigh, he stretched his long limbs and said, "Well Legolas, I've decided I'll accompany you. Whether or not you're correct in thinking we need to unify against the dark lord, I can't have my warriors thinking Eda a better ruler than me." He smirked.