Across the Walls of Mortality

That one part before they start walking forever

Legolas POV

The rest of his time spent in Rivendell passed in a flurry of small events blurring together. They all paled in the light of the journey to come.

Who would've predicted that hobbits, of all kinds would be the ones to sacrifice themselves. Legolas's biggest worry was if they truly understood what their perilous mission would entail.

Most likely they knew of death. Legolas knew it too, despite being immortal. The amount of death he had witnessed had hardened his heart to stone. But theirs, seemed soft and innocent. How cruel must the world be to smuggle that from them.

And so it came, the day of the Fellowship's departure. He strapped his weapons close to his body and covered them with care. The world was unaware that any pompous elf prince could fight, but if everyone underestimated him- so did Sauron. So he would hide it for now, and use their obliviousness against his enemy.

An effective tactic.

His footsteps made no sound as he made his way to the steps of Imaldris, where they were to gather.

He had said his farewell to Arwen the day before, not wanting the complications of a professional elvish goodbye in the company of the the entire city of Imaldris.

He had also made sure his horse was in proper shape, as he was to leave it in Rivendell. Sheilar had served him well in his many years, and she had been a noble and respectable steed. He wished her a long and joyful life if he was to succeed.

Legolas awaited Frodo with the others, joined now by Bill the pony whom had accompanied the hobbits from Bree.

He waited dutifully by the stair until at long last, Frodo emerged from the archway.

Elrond bid them a final farewell, most of which Legolas was sure that the rest of his company tuned out, him included. Mostly he attempted not to meet the gaze of anyone.

Most did not know why Legolas was chosen too carry the burden of the fate of the world. He had worked hard to make it so. Most elven royalty carries bows and swords, but they were generally for ceremonial purposes.

Elven warriors were revered throughout Middle Earth, but elven royalty however, were viewed as conceited and unskilled. The assumption was correct for the most part.

But no one had seen the elven kings in centuries, even the council with Lord Elrond had been rare. The other races knew nothing of royally elven dealings, or their affairs, or their children.

Of course Legolas was allowed to come because of ceremonial purposes, providing elven input to the mixed Fellowship. That did not mean they had tested his capabilities.

Elrond finished his speech, and they were off.

The world in danger, the threats consistent, and the stakes high.

Nonetheless, the company did not cry, or fear, or hang their heads.

And neither did Legolas.

Word count: 473

I know I know long wait, short chapter but I didn't really wanna get into anything till next chapter so sorry, also I figured it's better than nothing. Sorry for the wait live y'all

-Dani (xe/xer he/they)