animus_network | ❦ Third

[Something was off about the tower today.

For starters, there seemed to be far more people prowling about than Haldir last remembered. Over the years, there's been a steady decline of new arrivals here to Animus. Much of the friends he once knew were either dead or dying. Not many races could out live the Firstborns of Ilúvatar. The Elves, for better or for worse, have been cursed with longevity. Most of Haldir's kind are truly immortal in a sense. Many Elves never aged at all, including the march warden.

So this would explain why he seems so baffled as of why there's so many lurking about here. Has the Administrators found other worlds to ravage? Perhaps. He always doubted that they were doing more good than harm.]

How uncommon. There hasn't been this many newcomers since the old days.

[A slight frown settles upon his lips. Just why is there so many people here? It's so...sudden.]

I bid thee welcome! We seldom see so many newcomers; for it has been thousands of years, but we welcome all. If you're in need of aid, do not hesitate to ask. There's many amongst us who would be glad to assist you.

[Forcing himself to rid himself of his frown, Haldir actually smiles somewhat, though it's an awkward one.]

I can assure you that no harm shall come to you here. Just be certain to stay away from the floors above. That is where the danger lies.

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[The march warden honestly gets away with too much. Only he can openly disagree with Legolas with almost no repercussion. Others? They are not so fortunate, usually.]

Fair enough, but not everyone is fit to be a huntsman like you.

[He truly does.]

Or like you. They can be trained though.

Oh, you're still so humble after all these years? [He chuckles.] You must be in order to compare us so evenly.

I do remember you've won that "contest" between us a month ago.

[It was a close call but Legolas did manage to slay seven fowls to Haldir's six. Of course, they donated the food to the pantry, but Legolas won nonetheless.]

We might as well be evenly matched for the many years we've fought and trained together.

[Hmph, one contest out of how many they've had over the years? Legolas wouldn't let Haldir trade Legolas' modesty for his own.]

I recall that contest ended quite close. It could have easily been you.

It could've been had the quail I hunted wasn't a young mother of three.

[It's a golden rule amongst his kind to never kill a mother and her children. Only creatures that weren't nursing or raising young were allowed to be hunted.]

Nevertheless, I do acknowledge my own prowess in combat.

Exactly! And you know I'll not let you ever deny your own skill.

[Even if he had born human, Legolas was sure he'd have never killed any animal with children yet to care for.]

You are far too kind, but you already know of this.

[He says this with a rather affectionate smile toying at his lips.]

Where have you gone? It's gotten rather lonesome in this room we share.

Do I?

[Teasing~]

I went to the library in the hopes of finding something new to read. Shall I come back and keep you company?

Only if you wish.

[He replies with a flirtatious edge to his mocking tone.]

But if not, I'll have to pass the time some other way.

[He can hear that edge in your voice, Haldir. And he smirks in reply.]

Then I will see you shortly, love.

Do make haste.

[The march warden says with a very sly smirk. Knowing Legolas, he'll be here in less than five minutes.]

Would I do otherwise?

[Actually he might, just to tease Haldir. Or rather, he would try and then get anxious himself and go faster.]

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