They were heading towards Legolas’ bedchamber together, the Prince having insisted that he required no escort or carriage of his luggage, Lord Elrond equally insistent that their Mirkwood guest should, at the very least, be joined by Estel. Thus, the two distributed the prince's baggage between them and made their way in silence. Though he was accustomed to the company of fair Elves, even to the degree where he doubted his own worth from time to time, Estel had never seen one as beautiful and pure in appearance as Legolas was. He seemed to possess the ability to light up entire passages as they walked through them. What was to be said to him? Lord Elrond had already said all that formality asked of a host to say and anything else seemed risky, though what it was Estel was fearful to risk, he couldn't yet say.

Once they neared Legolas’ room, which was not too far from his own, Estel knew that something would have to be said. Some greeting that was right for both meeting and parting for the night. But which greeting would be most suitable? He was at a loss.

“I would not train you as a tutor would.” The Prince surprised him by speaking first. The Elven eyes seemed to twinkle at him with both glee and mischief. “I know that this was meant to be the purpose of my visit, but I would much prefer it if we were to become friends and train as such.”

Estel nodded his consent with a wide grin. He still did not know what to say, but the familiar fashion of the Prince's suggestion made him feel far more comfortable. They were nearly at their goal and Estel silently pointed out the door they would reach in a second. His sense of standing at the threshold of true camaraderie finally aided him.

“Of course, if we trained as friends, you might be devastated to learn that I am more of a match than you were led to believe.’”

Legolas seemed amused by this statement. “I would not wager my money on this, human.”

“Then I could defeat you in the field of gambling as well, Elf.”

They were standing by the door, smiling widely at each other, the vocabulary of language abandoned for that of glances, transferring mutual understanding and gladness to discover the possibility of real friendship.

“Good night then, Prince,” Estel finally said. The Elf shook his head gracefully to show his disapproval. “Good night, Legolas?” was the second attempt, which met with an approving smile and nod.

“Good night, Estel,” Legolas answered and added, as he was opening the door to his room, “I look forward to tomorrow and showing you how deeply you were mistaken.” Without waiting for a retort, he closed the door behind him and his luggage.

To be continued...