The Price of Pride

54: In the Wake of Truth

ActVI

The Shadows

Chapter 54: In the Wake of Truth

Imladris, September 17th 3018 T.A

The meeting concluded, but the elves and Xena did not immediately disperse. They lingered in the garden, forming smaller groups to discuss the topics raised during the council. Under the dappled light of the trees, conversations flowed, carrying an undercurrent of tension and curiosity.

Elrond stood with Erestor and Glorfindel, speaking in low tones about the news Xena had delivered. Some of what she had said was familiar to them, but other parts provided a new perspective on regions of Middle-earth they seldom heard about firsthand. Glorfindel's golden hair caught the sunlight as he nodded thoughtfully. "There are shadows even we have not fully comprehended," he remarked. "Her words suggest a depth to Sauron's influence in Harad that we have underestimated."

Erestor, his brow furrowed in contemplation, added, "Indeed. However, we must also consider how this knowledge might be used against him. Information from those lands is rare, and to have lived among them gives her a unique insight."

Meanwhile, across the garden, Elros, Thalion, and Mírdan gathered to discuss their thoughts. Elros spoke first, his voice hushed but intrigued. "I had heard some of these things from Xena before, but there are details I did not expect. Especially her dealings with Alakar."

Thalion nodded, his expression pensive. "What could that quest be? She did not seem willing to speak of it openly. And Alakar is no mere merchant of death; his influence runs deep."

Mírdan, always more practical, leaned in slightly. "Perhaps it is something she regrets too deeply to share. But whatever the reason, it involves more than just gold. There's a weight in her words."

In another corner, the twins, Elladan and Elrohir, had surrounded Legolas, who stood with a calm but unreadable expression. Elladan, always the more direct of the two, spoke first. "Legolas, do you know of this quest Xena mentioned? It sounds as if it involved you in some way."

Elrohir, more reserved but equally curious, added, "Is there something you are not telling us? You seemed particularly interested when Alakar's name was spoken."

Legolas, maintaining his composure, replied carefully, "I know of the quest. It was meant for me, but that is no longer of importance. She saved my life, putting herself at risk instead. What concerns me now is not the quest itself, but the fact that she ever made a deal with Alakar. That is a matter that could yet bring danger upon us all."

Elladan raised an eyebrow, sensing his friend's unease. "And do you trust her, then?"

"With my life," Legolas answered without hesitation. "But Alakar's machinations are not easily untangled."

On the far side of the garden, Xena stood with Arwen, the evening sun casting long shadows over the verdant grass. Arwen had remained silent during most of the meeting, her keen eyes taking in every subtle movement, every unspoken word. Now, with a gentle voice, she began, "There is more to this story than what was spoken. You and Legolas exchanged a look when Alakar's name was mentioned. I sensed a deeper connection."

Xena gave a slight nod, her expression guarded. "There are parts I have not shared with everyone," she admitted. "Things that I need to deal with myself."