The Merging of Destinies (Legolas Romance) *New Version, Same Author*

5: Unbreakable bonds in Rivendell

The pathway was narrow and jagged, which caused Val to think about how Bombur was managing. It was not a sight she wished to see.

After what felt like an eternity, they, at last, came to an opening and although Val knew where they would end up, the sight still took her breath away. Waterfalls flowed from high cliffs, the sun illuminated the white buildings and Val could only stare in awe.

'The Valley of Imladris. In the common tongue, it's known by another name.' Spoke Gandalf.

'Rivendell.' Said an awestruck Bilbo. Val looked at the hobbit and wondered how he knew of Rivendell.

'Here lies the last homely house, east of the sea.' Said Gandalf.

All Val could think about was a soft warm bed that was possibly waiting for her.

Thorin turned to look at the wizard, 'This was your plan all along, to seek refuge with our enemy.'

'You have no enemies here, Thorin Oakenshield. The only ill-will to be found in this valley is that which you bring yourself.' Countered Gandalf who had enough of the dwarf's petty grievances with the elves.

'You think the Elves will give our quest their blessing? They will try to stop us.' Spat Thorin.

Warm bath...food...cosy bed

'Of course, they will,' Began Gandalf, 'But we have questions that need to be answered. If we are to be successful this will need to be handled with tact, and respect, and no small degree of charm, which is why you will leave the talking to me.'

Val swallowed a smile and followed Gandalf towards Rivendell.

As they entered a small courtyard a brown haired ellon met them.

'Mithrandir.' He said.

Val looked back at the dwarves, namely Kili and imitated the elf, mouthing 'Mithrandir'. The dwarf snorted before attempting to look menacing. It didn't work.

'Ah, Lindir.' Said Gandalf. So that's his name, thought Val.

Movement to her right caused Val to look up at one of the balconies. A brown-haired elleth was gazing at them, or more specifically; Val.

Loud horns broke Val's gaze and she noticed an elf war party approaching them from behind.

'Close ranks!' Shouted Thorin and Val suddenly found herself squished in between dwarves - not a nice experience.

Horses circled them, caging them in when Lord Elrond appeared.

'Gandalf!' Remarked Elrond

'Lord Elrond.' Greeted the wizard.

'My friend! Where have you been?' Asked Gandalf in elvish.

'We've been hunting a pack of Orcs that came up from the South. We slew a number near the Hidden Pass.' Said Elrond who dismounted his horse and proceeded to embrace Gandalf. 'Strange for orcs to come so close to our borders. Something or someone has drawn them near.'

Gandalf had the good sense to look sheepish, 'Ah, that may have been us.'

Elrond looked at the group where his gaze landed on Thorin.

'Welcome Thorin, son of Thrain.' Said Elrond. Val was holding her breath at what Thorin was going to do. Don't do anything stupid, she thought.

It seemed the dwarf had the good sense to be formal, 'I do not believe we have met.'

'You have your Grandfather's bearing. I knew Thror when he ruled under the mountain.' Revealed the elf.

'Indeed? He made no mention of you.'