✓ 𝙈𝙮 𝙁𝙖𝙚 ━━ Legolas

・.・✫Fifteen ✓

୨⎯ Chapter 15⎯୧
"Reunion"

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AS I made my way back to the heart of the fortress, it was evident that chaos was rising. Men hurried to arm themselves, allowing for their frantic movements to echo the urgency of the situation.

"Farmers, farriers, stable boys. These are no soldiers," Aragorn remarked, his voice heavy with solemnity as he surveyed the makeshift army before him.

"Most have seen too many winters," Gimli added, his tone tinged with concern.

"Many haven't even reached the age of men. There are children here," I interjected, shaking my head at the sight.

Legolas's keen observation cut through the tension. "Look at them. They're frightened. I can see it in their eyes."

Switching to Elvish, Aragorn and Legolas continued their conversation, their words reflecting the gravity of the situation. I listened, understanding their exchange thanks to my knowledge of the Elvish tongue.

"They have more hope of defending themselves here than in Edoras," Aragorn asserted firmly.

But Legolas's response was laced with urgency and despair. "They cannot win this fight. They are all going to die!"

As Aragorn stormed off, I reached out to offer comfort, but he swiftly rejected it. Legolas moved to follow, but Gimli's firm grasp stopped him. "Let him go, lad. Let him be," Gimli advised.

I nodded in agreement, understanding the need to give Aragorn space to process his thoughts and emotions.

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Later, I found Aragorn amidst his preparations, donning his armor. Noticing his sword was absent, I stepped forward to present it to him.

"Aragorn, I'm sorry if Legolas offended you in any way. We have trusted you this far, and you have yet to lead us astray. I know he feels bad too," I confessed, my voice tinged with sincerity.

Aragorn shook his head, responding in Elvish. "There is nothing to forgive, Liairse. He is family, you are all family," he reassured, accepting the sword with gratitude.

As Gimli and Legolas entered the room, the atmosphere lightened with their presence. Gimli, struggling with ill-fitting chainmail, quipped, "We had time, I'd get this adjusted. It's a little tight across the chest."

I couldn't help but laugh. "I think it suits you well, Master Dwarf," I chuckled.

Just then, the sound of a horn pierced the air. Legolas's keen senses detected something different in the tone. "That is no orc horn," he declared.

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As we stepped into the courtyard, my heart swelled with joy at the sight before us. A magnificent procession of elves clad in gleaming golden armor and flowing blue cloaks entered through the gates.

At the forefront strode Haldir of Lorien. Theoden, his disbelief evident, stepped forward to greet their guests. "How is this possible?" Theoden's voice rang out, a mix of wonder and gratitude.

Suddenly, a cry rang out from above, drawing our attention skyward. Hundreds of faeries filled the air, their presence a dazzling display of light and magic.

Among them was my brother, Khellan, and others from our faerie army, including Caspian, our guide from Rivendell. With a surge of joy, I rushed forward to embrace my brother.

"You came! Thank the Fae, I've missed you," I exclaimed, unable to contain my joy.

Khellan's laughter filled the air as he returned my embrace. "Surprisingly, I missed you too, Sister," he replied with a chuckle.

But there was one more surprise in store. Stepping aside, Khellan revealed Aine, and my heart leapt with delight as I rushed into her arms.

"Aine!" I cried, feeling tears of happiness welling in my eyes as we embraced.

"And here I thought you wouldn't miss me at all," Aine teased, her laughter ringing out like music.

As we pulled back from our embrace, I eagerly inquired about their journey. Aine explained how they had heard my plea and joined forces with Khellan on their way to Helm's Deep.

Gratitude swelled within me as I thanked them both for their unwavering support. "Come, let me introduce you to the others," I said, turning to lead them towards our allies.

As we approached, Legolas greeted them with a respectful bow. My brother followed suit, playfully warning Legolas to take good care of me.

Aine then stepped forward to greet Legolas, her eyes twinkling with mischief. As she turned back to me, she leaned in close to whisper, "Well, I must say, your betrothed is quite handsome, more than the last time I saw him."

Suppressing a giggle, I gave Aine a playful nudge. "Oh, hush, Aine," I whispered back, feeling a flush of warmth creeping into my cheeks. "We have more important matters to attend to than Legolas's looks."

Meanwhile, Haldir addressed Theoden with respect, "I bring word from Elrond of Rivendell. And Prince Khellan of Caralis. An alliance once existed between elves, faeries and men. Long ago, we fought and died together."

"We come to honor that allegiance," Haldir declared, his words resonating with solemnity and determination.

"You are most welcome," Aragorn said warmly, a smile gracing his features as he welcomed their allies.

As the elven and Faerie army stood before Theoden, their unity was a testament to the strength of their alliance.

"We are proud to fight alongside men once more."

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