The Leaf in the Hood.

Chapter#7: A New Acquaintance

It was late that night when Legolas went out the Elven gates . Not even early dawn as he kissed Silmë softly on the lips in farewell. And clad in naught but green with a hood , armed with a bow. Slipped out of Mirkwood and to Laketown.

She kept watch for him as he went, awaiting the moment of his return. But unknown to them both was that someone else was watching as well. The King... and the master, the man who which awaiting the arrival of this green clad Elf. A grin on his face as stood in the dark of night for revenge.

His father, Thranduil on the other hand watched not out of revenge but curiosity. Seeing his son sneak out once more. And armed with his bow. Thinking of following him but tonight that was not to be. For a company of dwarves had just entered his kingdom.

Meanwhile our green archer continued on his way to Laketown. Stopping for a moment to pass over a small river with but an old fallen log for a bridge. Another stranger crossing from the other side. Making them meet in the middle. "Step aside and let me pass." Said the traveler demandingly. A hood pulled over his head. With a few stray wisps of brown hair showing from the sides.

"I was crossing first ," Legolas says to the unknown man. "It is you who should step aside." The stranger scoffs slightly in almost amusement. "Well pointed ears," He says. "Let us earn the right in a dual. With the better man being the one who should pass."

The Elf prince thought for a moment. "Fair enough." He says, drawing his sword with a nod. The stranger gave a small grin, taking out his own blade and striking it against the Elf's in a battle. Legolas blocked his move, easily parring it and making his own move. But as he was better with a bow the stranger soon had the upper hand.

"I must admit, you are good with the blade." Legolas says with a small smile. The man nods. Finishing the fight in a few easy strokes of the sword he held in his hand. Going lightly to the Elf's neck before lowering it. "I have practiced for many years." He says. Sheathing his weapon.

Legolas nods with a smile to the hooded man. "Ah," He says, stepping aside to let him through. "So have I since the moment I could hold one and yet you bested me. What is your name stranger?" "My name is Elshan, and you my good man?" He says friendly. A smile on his face as well. "You may call me Leif." The Elf replies after a moment with a nod.

"Leif?" Elshan questions at the telling of his name. "Surely not the same as Leif the Green perhaps?" Legolas nods. "The very same." Elshan chuckles slightly with a shake of his head. "To think I've bested the very man protecting my town. I would have offered you my services if I would have but naught recognized you when we first met. And will gladly do so now if you would accept them."

The Elf Prince nods after a moment. "Aye, if you are willing. I will accept them." He says with a smile. Elshan nods in agreement . Sharing a smile in return. "Then when you have need of me. Meet at a blue door." He says, starting to walk away. "I will, and thank you." Legolas says, watching the stranger now friend as he goes. Himself continuing on his way.