The Last Light of the Star

18 - Panic! At Mirkwood

A couple months had past since Legolas' and Arryin's argument. Things between them had calmed and settled—for the most part that is. Of course, they would still have the occasional aggressive argument, but their playful banter had returned. However, that did not mean that Legolas was going to ignore his concerns.

If Legolas ever pried at the subject of her well being, she would instantly turn cold and angry—just like she had at the waterfall. So, it was pretty clear that Arryin did not want him pushing the subject and he realized that. Therefore, Legolas did not bring it up again. Instead, he was sure to be discreet as he constantly checked in on her when she was unaware. If the direct approach was a loss, maybe a more subtle one would do? Therefore, during meals he would scan her plate and make sure she was eating—even offering her occasional snacks when they were together. She did not always accept them—unless it was chocolate. She always accepted chocolate given that it was such a rarity. Additionally, when the two warriors were sparing he made sure to inconspicuously inspect her weight and strength. He was worried, but he recognized that he was not going to get through to her with words. Besides, Legolas didn't want to cause another fight and make things worse. He thought that perhaps showing her the possibilities of love and happiness would help her begin to develop enough trust to talk to him about whatever was haunting her heart. Furthermore, he hoped that through making the emotions she experienced positive, the burden would lessen. But would that truly bring her away from the edge of fading? It was a lot of guess work to be honest, but Legolas was willing to try anything to help.

Yet still, she was not back to the way she had been. Something remained distinctly off. Arryin had a different aurora. It was one of sadness, emptiness, and numbness. It bleed from her from like sweat and soaked into the air around her. Every moment that he was with her, he could feel it. Legolas could tell she put her best effort into masking it, but it was not enough to hide it from the Prince. This notion tormented Legolas because he didn't know where it came from or what it was, and he most definitely didn't know how to fix it.

On the other hand, a new obstacle had arisen: Edyrm. Ever since he questioned Legolas in the Mirkwood hall about Arryin's whereabouts, the Prince began to pick up on more signs of Edyrm's interest in the Wayward Ranger. The dark-haired ellon persistently tried to talk to her and continuously make excuses to spend time with her—whether it was sparing or sitting near her at meals, it continued on. Furthermore, the longing gazes and lingering looks were not things Legolas failed to notice. And, to be honest, it was really starting to piss the Prince off. He did not like it one bit.

Currently, in the late afternoon, many members of the Mirkwood guard were on the training fields working on one-on-one combat moves. They had split up into multiple small groups and were giving each other pointers and tips as they watched short duels take place. Yet as the session went on, elven eyes drifted from their own battles and towards Arryin and Legolas' current sparing match. Belanor, Rowan, Beyla, Razela, Edyrm and many, many others were now watching—because, really, who wouldn't want to see the two most skilled warriors in the guard duel?

The Wayward Ranger and the Mirkwood Prince were both using their twin, silver knives. It was a constant pattern of clashing blades and twisting bodies. Their motions were in perfect rhythm and their movements complimented each other's well. It was entirely encapsulating to all onlookers.

Edyrm, stupidly, decided this moment was the perfect one to try and approach the Ranger....yet again.

"Arryin?" He cleared his throat, "I was wondering if I could speak to you."

The black-haired elleth blocked a blow from Legolas' blade and whipped one of her long knives towards the Prince. "What is it, Edyrm?"

The dark-haired ellon frowned at her lack of attention. "Erm...I was hoping we could speak in private?"