Building Ithilien [Legolas] LOTR

Our Race Begins

The race course followed a circular trail beginning at the southern gates of the city and wound about the Golden Wood. A great congregation of elves assembled with shouts and song to lead the five on horseback through many winding paths to the tall and strong gates of the city. The five competitors followed the throng, casually visiting amongst themselves, speaking of the race.

"What does this horse race have to do with archery, Eledhel?" grumbled Haldir.

"Everything!" replied Eledhel enthusiastically. "On this last part, you must use speed and agility, along with your bow, in order to win. Along the raceway, we have set up checkpoints. You must stop at each checkpoint and hit the targets there before continuing. If you miss a target, however, you must return to the previous checkpoint and start over."

"Sounds easy enough," commented Belegil.

"Did I mention that there are a few choice obstacles on the way to each checkpoint?" added Eledhel.

Miredhel began to doubt that she even belonged in this race. Obstacles? How would she keep up with warriors like Belegil, or even her own brother for that matter?

Legolas noticed the glum expression on her face and debated on whether or not to say anything to her. Even if it were a kind word, she would more than likely take offense than not. Prudence dictated that he stay silent.

"My lady, what troubles you?" Legolas asked. He cared naught for prudence.

"Excuse me, my lord?" Miredhel responded with after a pause. Was he talking to her?

"I just wanted to know if anything troubled you, my lady. You seemed rather withdrawn for a lady who just won the hearts of so many."

"Oh," she said and straightened up, "I was just focusing on the task at hand, the race that is." She paused. "I still mean to win our wager."

The ears of Belegil, Farothin, and Eledhel immediately perked up, wondering about the terms of this wager. They rode silently, hoping to listen to the prince and the lady.

"Do you fear change so very much, Lady Miredhel?" asked Legolas, referring to Eledhel's choice to leave Lothlorien.

"I fear nothing," she said and tossed her head.

"That I cannot believe," declared Legolas, "for I believe you are afraid that I will win my wager today." The other elves leaned forward.

"Ha!" She laughed scornfully, and then softened, "I do not fear change, neither do I wish it."

"Sometimes life changes for the better," Legolas suggested.

"Such as..." she prompted him.

"Such as making new friends," finished Legolas. "And winning races... and certain wagers," he added as an afterthought.

Lady Miredhel blushed. Prince Legolas, although horribly proud and conceited in her eyes, was not altogether unpleasant looking. She had agreed to his condition of the bet on a whim, for he had been so charming in the garden at the time. She met his gaze and assured him, "My lord, whatever the outcome may be, I will graciously accept the terms of our wager."

"And I as well," agreed Legolas, a bit too happily. Miredhel seemed to shrink at his enthusiasm.

"Only..." Miredhel paused and lowered her voice. Her brother and his friends leaned forward to catch her words. "If you win," she whispered, "I do not wish to...you know, in front of everyone."

Eledhel and his two friends exchanged curious looks. Meanwhile, Haldir who knew nothing of the wager was utterly confused.

"What are they talking about?" he asked loudly.