Ch 5 Training

“Must I really see this?” whispered Elrohir, fighting a lump in his throat. Yaaraen merely motioned to the water. Elrohir, his shoulders slumped in despair, turned back to the silent pool.

He watched as the pictures formed, his thoughts supplying the sounds. He did not know if the being with him could hear them.

He saw himself as he entered the dining hall for breakfast. He was late, and there were not very many blackberry tarts, as Estel and Legolas had been there before him. He felt his frustration growing as Estel and Legolas teased him about his lateness.

“I believe we have eaten all the tarts,” said Estel with a laugh.

“Nay, YOU have eaten them all,” replied Legolas with a smirk.

Elladan chimed in, “Aye, I think Estel ate the plate as well.”

Elrond shook his head. “I cannot believe you ate that many, Estel. Will you be able to run the training course?” There was a twinkle in the elven lord’s eyes as he watched Estel finish.

“Aye, I will have no problem. I only hope the other three will be able to keep up with me,” said Estel.

“Then perhaps I will participate as well, if you have no objection,” said Glorfindel, as he brought some rolls to the table.

Both Estel and Legolas were delighted, and Elladan said “Seas. I would very much like that.”

Elrohir only grunted.

“I am glad to see such enthusiasm, Elrohir,” said Glorfindel sarcastically. He then turned to the two friends. “I understand you have been teaching Estel the finer points of using knives, Legolas. Would you two be willing to give a demonstration for the novice class? It would please me.”

Legolas and Estel smiled as Glorfindel spoke. It was rare for the golden-haired elf to ask favors, and they were determined that they would do their best for the class. Their smiles were all the answer that was needed.

“We will meet you at the training grounds in an hour, if that is convenient, as we need to retrieve our weapons,” said Estel.

“Hannon le , that will be good. I will meet you there.” With that, everyone departed, and thus began the day.

They actually entered the training grounds in less than an hour. Legolas and Estel both had their knives, and had started to warm up. Elladan stood at the side, watching his brother and his friend as they went through the routine, doing it quicker each time. He was surprised at how quickly his human brother had learned to handle the knives of Mirkwood. Faster and faster the daggers spun in their dance, the sunlight glinting off the twirling blades. Just as quickly, they stilled, then disappeared.

Elrohir did not bother to look. He just stood there, arms crossed, and glared. All he wanted to do was to go back to bed. He did not want to run the course, but knew that, like all warriors of Imladris, it was expected of him.

Glorfindel brought the novice class over, and had them sit in a circle. Estel and Legolas started their demonstration. At first, the two were a little self-conscious, but very soon were concentrating on their moves. They moved in graceful concert, as leaves dancing in the wind. The class was in awe, as they watched the elf and the human.

Glorfindel then motioned the twins over. “Is it possible for the four of you to demonstrate teamwork? Legolas and Estel against the two of you?”

“Certainly. It will be interesting to see how Estel and Legolas fight as a team,” replied Elladan. Elrohir agreed, reluctantly.

Translation:

Seas: Please