Authors Note: Elfish (Sindarin) is in this form, but without the dark bold lettering.

The Half-Blood Prince Prologue

Maerwen knew she had to wait until the moon was at its highest point in the sky. It was the time of night where many would be asleep in their beds while still providing enough light to see by in the darkness which would be assisting in the cover she required. Maerwen had only one shot to make this work. She couldn't afford to fail if she did…Maerwen didn't want to even think about that. There was far too much at stake.

Instead of hours it felt like days until the moon reached the perfect height. Listening carefully to the sounds coming from her window only a few servants and guards were awake patrolling the halls. It was now or never.

Throwing he covers of her bed from her body Maerwen struggled to rise. The moment she sat up attempting to stand pain immediately shot through her abdomen. Bent over double forced to remain sitting until the pain passed she bit her lip to keep from screaming. It took a few seconds, but it did eventually dissipate. She knew all too well the pain would instantly return the moment she tried to move again, but she was going to have to tolerate it no matter how much it hurt to do so.

Teeth gritted Maerwen slowly stood up letting her body adjust before moving any further. Quickly yet stealthily she gathered the few clothes and belongings she knew to take with her choosing to leave most of her possessions behind. She quietly changed into a dress she'd often used for riding knowing it was unnecessary to change into any of clothes for the long journey ahead. After typing her cloak which was an ocean blue she put a few jewels into a bag along with her bow, arrows, a pair of slippers, and three tiny painted portraits of her mother, father, and elder brother. Maerwen needed to travel with haste so everything for her would have to travel light. Fortunately, all of it could fit into a single bag she could carry on one shoulder. After adjusting her favorite pair of boot she gave one last look around the room with a sad solemn expression in her eyes knowing for sure this could be the final time she may ever see it.

Pressing her ear against he door she listened for some indication anyone was stationed outside her room. Seconds later she slowly cracked the door open a portion to cautiously keep on the other side. Looking left o right in each direction of the hallway she felt great relief when not spotting anyone there not even the sign of single shadow. She shut the door behind her making absolutely sure it didn't even click as it closed. Right now she could run straight to the stables, grab her personal elk and go, but there was still one more precious possession she had to retrieve one far more important to her than her entire existence…her son.

Maerwen edged along the dark hallway lit only by flaming torches positioned on the walls and the moonlight coming in shining from the sky. She was careful not to make any noise testing each step she took until she reached the nursery. She stopped placing her hand ear beside the wooden doo. The only sound she heard was the wind making its way through the kingdom.

Turning the knob Maerwen hesitated in the shadows to see whether or not any of the guards or others head heard. Fortunately, there weren't any movements signaling alarm.

After the birth Maerwen had repeatedly begged to see her newborn son over the last two days. Every time she heard his cries of hunger all she wanted was for her son to be brought to her so she could feed and provide him the love he was desperately craving for. When he was placed into her arms after coming into the world she gazed at him with such love and devotion she knew she could never give him up, but everyone else in the realm didn't exactly share her same opinion.

When Thranduil saw the loving look his daughter gave the infant he became angry. He ripped the child from her arms much to her distress. Thranduil immediately declared the child would be executed sentenced to die in a couple of day's time. Maerwen pleaded with all her heart for Thranduil to change his mind all to no benefit. Thranduil remained firm in his decision no matter the agony it caused her heart. Seeing she wasn't going to be able to get through to the King she tried a different strategy.

Maerwen approached her elder brother Legolas assistance hoping perhaps he held sympathy and could so something to help, but her hopes was soon dashed into nothing all together. Legolas had in a near instant sided with Thranduil agreeing the infant was an abomination one that shouldn't be on this earth because of the mixture of orc blood with the purity of an elf. Maerwen felt she was about to die when Legolas made his own intentions known. If her son was actually in turn really executed she most certainly was going to. That was when the clear solution appeared to her she knew what actions she had to take. She must leave and steal her newborn baby back taking him with her. It was the only way to save his life which brought her to the drastic conclusion she was forced to lead.

Slipping inside the room Maerwen closed the door as quietly as possible with it barely making a whisper of a sound. The breeze coming in through the open window moved the drapes in a flowing motion as if they were waves moving through the sea inside the room. It carried something of a slight chill to the air. Drawing her attention away from the window she returned it to the baby.

Thranduil really was utterly cruel. He'd already sentenced this innocent child to death based on his origins and yet still chose to ironically treat this little one as if he were royalty. In the center of the room stood a beautifully carved crib. Inside was the much distress infant causing all of the noise disturbing others with its insistent loud demanding crying. Stepping closer peering inside Maerwen saw the little one had somehow kicked off its warm blanket. The lack of warmth created by it was causing discomfort with the cold air touching him for so long.

With no sign of indecisiveness in her movements Maerwen bolted over to the crib lifting the baby into her arms. The moment her arms were wrapped around him in a cradle the baby quieted at her gentle touch. When his eyes caught sight of her he smiled gurgling happily upon seeing her there. Smiling to herself Merida leaned down to kiss his soft head nuzzling his hair.

Softly, Maerwen promised "We're going to go far, far away some place where you will be safe, loved just as you are supposed to be. I will make sure of that, my precious Son."

After checking her sons swaddling clothes were securely wrapped tightly around his body to keep him comfortable she made for the doors with her small bag in hand. Catching no guards was nearby Maerwen rushed out making the critical mistake of forgetting to lock the nursery door. This left a sure sign someone must've gone in there when they weren't authorized to.

Fortunately for her the baby hadn't made a single sound as she kept going through the shadows avoiding near confrontation at every turn with other elves. Each time the slightest noise was made she was required to stop waiting a while so no suspicion was drawn towards them from anyone passing. Once this was properly confirmed she continued to the stables again. Taking her mount would reveal her intentions, but to her it was the only solution for her to escape fast enough instead of on foot where she'd definitely be caught. So far the will of the Gods were on her side, but halfway to the stables her luck was about to run dry.

One of the many guards stationed to patrol the halls was now moving further down where the nursery was when he spotted the slightly open door. Like numerous others he'd assumed when the infant had ceased its screams it had either tired it out or the nurse ordered to look after it had been able to calm it finally. So when he saw the door was left ajar unattended he stiffened slowing his pace becoming alarmed as his suspicions rose exponentially.

A single hand pushing open the door with the other on the scythe each guard has he scanned the room, but found no one within even the child scheduled for execution. His anxiety mounting the guard went over to the crib only to find it empty of its occupant realization of why this was so became all too obvious.

Not wasting any time the guard took the horn from where it was strapped to his waste at the belt running directly over to the window. Bringing the horn to his lips he blew an alarm call that rapidly spread throughout the kingdom echoing off the walls of the whole cavernous cave. Those who were already alerted to the predicament of the Princess immediately knew the meaning behind this particular call.

The King and the Prince had been discussing matters of state were among those initially alerted first by the horns reach. Without an alteration of expression Thranduil turned to his son.

"Go to the main gate cut off their escape, but not before you go to the stables," commanded Thranduil. "There's no doubt she'll be taking her favorite elk with her."

Nodding Legolas complied taking off at a run calling the Guard to him as he went shouting issuing various orders.

It was complicated for Maerwen to quicken her pace since she continued to be hindered by the increasing abdominal pain, but she stubbornly pushed on. She knew if she allowed herself to slow then the chances of them getting out at all would decrease even lower than they already were. So Maerwen ignored the pain shoving it aside forcing herself to continue. When she heard the sound of the horn she knew her escape attempt was discovered. Shouts could be heard all over as they ran around searching incessantly for her.

A good thing her was the royal stable were in sight. Temporarily they were deserted, but not for much longer. Every instinct in her being was screaming at her to check it was safe, but there was no time to be on the alert. Disregarding the potential danger dashing into the light Maerwen made a break for the stable doors leaping inside.

At her entrance most of the horses looked in her direction neighing and snorting their greetings. One animal in particular she recognized since it actually was her own. An elfish bull elk stood out among the rest in the stables for its pure size and glimmering while coat in the moonlight as bright as the midnight stars. This is what set Starlight apart from the other mounts especially that of her Fathers. Starlight hunt his head out from his stall stretching his neck as far as it possibly could go in her direction stomping his font hooves in the straw agitated sensing something was amiss.

Limping heavily Maerwen was given absolutely no time to return the greetings of the horses as she went over to the elk. She signaled the other occupants to keep silent so her position wouldn't be blown. As Starlight bumped his muzzle into her chest Maerwen laid her forehead against his.

Eyes closed, Maerwen whispered "Please, my friend, take us far away from this prison. Bring us to the sanctuary of Rivendell under the Lord Elrond's protection. I trust you to lead us the way to safety."

Starlight bobbed his large head understanding what his Mistress was requesting of him. The entire arduous journey would be long, hard, and dangerous but he wouldn't fail her. There was no time for Maerwen to attach a saddle since she'd ridden without either, but judging by the present level of circumstance it would have to do. There was no time to learn any of this over again if she wanted to leave there wasn't any other choice. If there were she would take it in a heartbeat. Unlatching the stall door Starlight walked out on his own moving into a position where it would be easier to mount him.

The infant chose this moment to whimper squirming a bit within the swaddling's causing Starlight to become aware of the babies presence. Snorting Starlight lowered his muzzle to the baby absorbing in his scent sniffing him all over. Suddenly a familiar smell was caught by him one he didn't expect to locate mixed with that of his Mistress. Startled he instantly retreated pulling away his confusion evident in his bewilderment. Speaking softly to Starlight in the elfish language of Sindarin Maerwen gently stroked her fingers along the fur of his majestic neck to soothe him in consolation. Her magic combined with her gentle touch settled him in a more calm state of mind.

At the same time Maerwen wrapped the child better in his swaddling's the very feeling comforting the baby improving his condition.

Pointing to the ground, Maerwen commanded "Kneel, Starlight."

Obediently Starlight knelt on his front legs allowing better access to his back. Maerwen struggled immensely to pull herself on top of it. Excruciating pain shot through her each time she moved merely an inch. Blood was beginning to travel slowly down her legs from the recent wound she sustained during the birth staining the fabric of her dress. This entire she relatively ignored replacing it with the image of bringing her child to safety encouraging her on passed the agony. Gripping a hand on Starlights neck to steady her for balance Maerwen urged the bull elk on.

Instinctively Starlight checked for danger after he pushed the stable doors open with his antlers. Only after he deemed it safe did he put the wooden doors all the way. Unfortunately they were discovered before they even got a few feet from the structure.

"Maerwen!"

Starlight ceased mid-step as Maerwen snapped her head in the direction of the voice originated. On a set of stairs leading to the stables from above stood Legolas. For the time being he was alone, but the sound of footsteps approaching showed others would soon arrive making them known. Upon meeting the eyes of her elder brother Maerwen frozen knowing she was caught in the act.

"It doesn't have to end this way, Maerwen," cautioned Legolas, hoping to ease her into submission by reasoning with her. "There's no use in fighting you know you won't escape now that the alarm has been sounded." As he was speaking he descended one step at a time not risking any sudden movements that might initially cause her to make a break for freedom. "You have no chance of winning a fight against us. What's the point of even trying? What do you have to gain?"

If Legolas had been hoping to pacify her into submission then saying that was exactly the wrong direction to take. The baby screamed in discomfort the sound of his distressed voice snapping her out of the state of immobilization she was in. It reminded her of all she had to lose if she should fail.

Holding her son to her breast, eyes cold, Maerwen said "My son." With that spoken she kicked Starlight's sides causing him to jump into a fast gallop. Behind her Maerwen could hear Legolas shouting orders to other elves that'd just finally arrived on the scene, but were to late to surround and act.

Starlight sped through the realm running and jumping over any obstacles including soldiers that got in his way. The larger gaps between one area to the next posed no challenge to him with his superior body structure even with the added extra weight on his back.

At one point after they'd reached the elevated path intertwined with the entire kingdom connecting it all a foe she'd definitely wanted above all hope to avoid made an appearance in her way. On the side standing in an open area overlooking the chaos was her father. As if in slow motion their eyes met over the distance locking with each other in the open air. No words were spoken, but neither were they necessary. All that needed to be said was transferred from the emotions in their eyes. While his fury was far more than obvious to those who were able to recognize being familiar with his behavior his decision to stand solemn eyes said otherwise. Seconds later the spell linking them together as one was broken as Maerwen passed Thranduil on Starlight making a desperate break for the main exit out of the realm.

"Maerwen," yelled Thranduil, outraged, malevolence pouring out of him in enormous waves.

But Maerwen disregarded him not even acknowledging him never looking back only ahead of her. The future belonged to her and her son was ahead not behind.

Legolas had already gotten to the gate doors with his party of guards to try and stop her. He'd ordered them to ceil the doors to cut off the exit which is exactly what Maerwen as soon as they came into view. The doors were heavy as they were forcing a lot of effort to be put into merely shutting them. It increased her resolve and determination. Speaking encouraging words to Starlight to go faster the bull elk pushed his speed barreling on not giving an inch of ground in stopping. Since this was clearly their intention for her to do.

Despite the distance Maerwen saw fear on the faces of the elves that were barricading the way when they figured out she wasn't going to slow down. The fear of being trampled overruled their need to follow orders. All of their disciplined training wasn't nearly enough to hold them there. They'd rather face the furious anger of their King afterwards than remain standing there. In the end only a small handful remained those who were attempting to shut the heavy doors. Legolas stood in the center of the remaining unoccupied space confident in his belief she would never so anything in regards to harming in in a physical manner. Bearing a smug grin he held no weapons knowing with great satisfaction they wouldn't be needed.

Seeing Legolas standing there cocky so sure of himself Maerwen came up with the perfect way to wipe that smug grin off his face. Apparently so did Starlight. When they were but feet from the doors Starlight gathered his legs together. When her correctly positioned himself he leapt straight over the heads of Legolas along with those of the remaining elves. There was just barely enough room for them to slip through with the side edges of his antlers grazing the doors.

"Yes," shouted Maerwen, laughing in gleeful victory. Now uninhibited she leaned forward further into Starlights neck signaling him to gain speed while at the same time rubbing the fur on the side of his neck in gratitude. "Thank you, my friend."

Disbelief and frustration covering his face Legolas stood dumbstruck watching them run away further out of view. An elf's eyesight can track for miles, but in the confines of an immense forest where so much vegetation and trees blocked the way it was a whole different story. Legolas lost sight of the trio very quickly. It was the last time he'd see the boy for years to come and his sister even more.

With her elf hearing Maerwen didn't catch the sound of anyone pursuing them figuring they knew chasing after them was a pointless mission. Maerwen felt a huge wave of joyful relief exhorting over her a large smile breaking over her face. That happiness was soon exterminated with what happened next.

Suddenly Thranduil's voice boomed throughout the interior length of the forest. The sound not only startled the baby a new fit of hysterics, but it frightened Starlight as well. He reared in fear almost causing Maerwen to fly off of his back if not for the tight grips she had on his neck along with his back.

"Maerwen Greenleaf of the Greenwood! I hereby denounce you of your rank, title, home, and family Henceforth you are forever banished from these lands destined to live in exile for the entire remainder of your existence! You are not to return to this realm upon penalty of death!"

The pure fury in Thranduil's voice was near to being unlike anything else she'd ever heard from him before. That very second she could sense the atmosphere of his magic spreading over the forest as though pushing her out.

"Fly, Starlight! Fly!"

The shock from Thranduil's outburst wearing off Starlight returned to moving in a run. Soon enough the three of them were finally out of the forest faster than she anticipated although in truth it took hours to reach the edge of the border. After leaving the repressive atmosphere forcing itself down on her an enormous weight was lifted off her shoulders making her feel lighter than she'd ever been in an extremely long time. Now there was nothing left in their path to hold them back any longer.

Days passed in a blur as they ran through forests, hills, open plains, and mountains in order to get to sanctuary. Starlight never faltered in his gait not straying once. There was no room for rest he knew it was imperative he'd get his mistress to safety soon. He wouldn't betray the strong trust she'd put in him. Starlight easily maneuvered them evading dangers like goblins and a few small packs of orcs there was another more serious threat on Maerwen's life to be considered.

Riding non-stop constantly without food or sleep and rest was seriously taking its toll on Maerwen. Her wound had torn open completely blood escaping in large amounts streaming off Starlight's sides staining his fur as it dripped onto the ground. The pain originating in her abdomen was getting worst. If the pain was excruciating before it was definitely practically unbearable now. Despite the risk to her own life Maerwen had them push on her maternal instincts overriding her own common sense. There would be no opportunity to heal her injuries, end the starvation, and the strong fever taking hold until they'd reached the security of their desired destination. There was one person that could assist her and the child now.

Inside of Rivendell everything was all at peace tranquil and calm. Lord Elrond was in his study overlooking the hidden valley going some papers. Suddenly he heard a shout coming from beyond the balcony belonging to one of his scouts.

"Rider approaching! There's a rider approaching the valley!"

Rising from his seat behind his desk Lord Elrond went onto the balcony watching the walkway leading into Rivendell curious of who their visitor might be. There had been no messenger so the identity was a mystery. Seconds later a horn was blown signaling the riders was moments away. From around a corner in the Cliffside appeared the rider. Lord Elrond stared at the rider in confusion, but this didn't last long as recognition hit. He'd recognize that while bull elk anywhere. The hunched figure on its back lying across the animal's neck was unmistakable.

"My god," breathed Elrond, eyes wide, bolting out of his study.

Down below other elves had gone to intercept the rider already at the entryway. By now the rider had already been identified as Maerwen the Princess of Greenwood. Maerwen was hunched over at this point fatigue taking full control rolling in and out of consciousness no longer aware of her surroundings oblivious to where she even was. When Starlight skidded to a stop she could hold onto his back no longer slipping off. Fortunately she was conscious enough to position herself in a manner where she would land onto her back so the baby wouldn't get injured from the impact.

Lindir, Lord Elrond's aide and right hand, rushed to her side, like his Lord having recognized her immediately too. "My Lady," he exclaimed, alarmed, kneeling beside her.

Making record time Lord Elrond got to the small crowd forming around them as if from thin air. "Princess Maerwen," he said, taking stock of her current state sucking in a shocked breath when he got a clear view of her face.

The entire left side of her face was terribly scarred mutilated. The long healed scars were in the shape of a claw from the hairline all the way to the bottom of her chin. The width went from the check ranging all the way over her eye. When she managed to tiredly open them briefly mumbling incoherently he could see she was blind in that one eye. Something horrible had happened to her an incident he'd never been notified of.

Her clothes were torn, hair disarrayed, and there were a number of scratches both hailed and in the process of healing on her person, but besides her face this wasn't what really alarmed Lord Elrond into panic. The bottom half of her clothes along with the whole interior of her thighs were drenched in blood some fresh and other either dried up or barely so. Eyes observing Starlight in a quick examination he noticed the seat Maerwen had on his back was covered in blood top with large amounts on the side his while oat no longer glittering like the stars.

They were way beyond the critical point. Maerwen didn't have much time left something had to be done now or else she wasn't going to live passed the next sunrise.

Shouting order Lord Elrond himself lifted Maerwen into his arms rushing her to the healers pavilion. Some of the other elves chose to follow him while a few stayed behind to collect her fallen belonging and tend to Starlights needs.

Lying Maerwen on an empty bed Elrond spoke to the present healers, saying "We don't have much time she's lost far too much blood. If she loses anymore-."

Suddenly Lord Elrond was cut off as he felt a hand gently grip the front of his robes. Looking down he discovered Maerwen to be awake her eyes open disoriented from an overwhelming fever. Combined with the immense blood loss she wasn't going to remain conscious for very long. If Elrond wanted to get some questions answered then this was his opportunity to pursue the ones he sought.

"Wh-Where am I," breathed Maerwen, exhausted. Despite how weak she was Maerwen did attempt to struggle into a sitting position.

"Ly still," ordered Elrond, gently pushing her until she ceased her attempts, "you have traveled a long way. You are in Rivendell."

Gasping with great relief Maerwen clutched at the bundle she was holding closer to her chest. "We made it, little one," she breathed, weak. "We made it. You are safe."

It was only then did Elrond come to realize what the bundle she was clutching so desperately actually was. Casting a weary glance at Maerwen he stretched out a cautious hand to pull aside part of the worn blanket to get a look at the babies face.

Startled hisses originated from the other elves in the pavilion as they leapt back from the bed. Elrond couldn't blame them for he himself was coursing with disbelief his widened eyes the betrayal sign of his surprise.

The baby was slightly larger than a normal newborn, but what truly set it apart were the rest of its qualities. Its skin was extremely pale a shade of white he'd only seen on one species he could recollect in his memory before. When the infant briefly opened its eyes Elrond saw they were a deep light icy blue. This child was certainly part elf, but the other half had to carry the bloodline of another. There was no indication for it to be otherwise.

Forcing his gaze away from the child returning it to Maerwen's face on shaken breath, he breathed "Maerwen…."

Sensing Elrond's unease along with the others present Maerwen held her babe protectively to her chest the expression in her eyes weak yet challenging. "You will not hurt him," she snarled, fierce.

Quick to reassure, Lord Elrond said "Of course not. Maerwen, I would not allow it, but tell me. Is the father who I think it is?"

Gently caressing her sons face eyes softened, Maerwen whispered "Surely you already know. The Greenwood is a long way from here, but I know you've heard the rumors same as the others leading you to already suspect his lineage."

Eyes hard, firm, Lord Elrond insisted "I wish to hear it from your lips. Confirm it."

The fever and blood loss were making her weaker and weaker with every passing moment. She had seconds left before she'd lose consciousness.

"Your suspicions are true, Lord Elrond. It is indeed as you suspect. This child…my precious little one is…is Agathon son of Azog."

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