Hello everyone!

OMG! I'm starting the Return of the King! I can't believe it right now! I'm soooo excited. I have been so busy and stressful this past week and a half but somehow got this out so I'm pretty proud of myself. It's a really long chapter too. I couldn't find a good place to break it up sorry.

Thanks everyone for the prayers for my dad. He came home yesterday and is recovering well.

Enjoy!

-B

Chapter 21: Trouble in Isengard

As we trekked through Fangorn, I couldn't help but look around the forest now. Last time I was in this forest, I was injured, exhausted, and honestly scared. But the dreary environment hadn't lifted much. Every man in the company had a stern glare or worried gaze about them. I looked back at Legolas who was scanning the area around us.

"Do you see anything?" I asked trying to spark some kind of distraction from this creepy place.

"No, it is unnaturally quiet. Fangorn is never this quiet" he said in an unsure voice.

"Do you think something happened?"

"I don't know" he said laying his head against my shoulder for a moment but then continued his scout of the areas around us. Fangorn was much different here deep in the woods then the outskirts I had encountered.

"We will stop here for the night. Legolas, Aragorn, do I quick scout of the area" Gandalf commanded. I don't understand how a wizard out ranks all the royals here but they never question him.

As they left, I pulled out my bedroll and blanket as the others did their tasks around the camp. After I finished, I turned to Arod, mumbled in elvish to the horse, and started grooming him with the single brush I had brought with us.

"Lady
Maethriel" I turned from brushing Arod to see Eomer looking at me. He looks no different that morning on the plains of Rohan. His dirty blond hair lay in slight waves to his shoulders and his dark eyes filled with determination.

"My Lord" I said nodding to the Horse Lord. We have not officially talked yet and I wanted to thank him again for his kindness that night.

"How fares your injury from our last meeting?"

"Healed with no repercussions. I must thank you again for the supplies and care you and your men blessed me with" I said smiling. Honestly, who knows if I would have survived the night without his aid?

"It brings joy to my heart to know you are alive and well, that is all the thanks I need." He smiled and reached out a hand to touch my cheek. I pulled away quickly at his coarse hands.

"Excuse my boldness my lady. Would you honor me with a walk this night?" I saw the desire in his eyes and took a few steps back.

"No, Eomer, I am sorry but I cannot" I said shaking my head.

"The Elf?" I thought our relationship was obvious but I guess assuming is not a good idea these days.

"Yes, we are together. I care for Legolas more than anything in all of Middle Earth" I said leaving nothing left to his imagination.

"I understand but you have not left my thoughts since I left you to the dangers of Fangorn. That was one of the hardest decision I've made as Third Marshall. Leaving such a beauty to the darkness of Fangorn, I did not sleep for some nights after"

"I cannot be what you want. I am sorry. My heart is taken and I happily gave it to Legolas" I said turning away from him and walking back to camp without another word.

I returned to the small clearing where the others were and was relieved to see Legolas was not back yet but Aragorn was. I plan to tell both of them of the Horse Lord's intentions should he decided to act again on them.

I ate some lembas and some broth the men had warmed but soon found myself drifting to sleep by the fire. I was barely aware of someone picking me up and carrying me to my bed roll. I felt the same person lay down beside me so I assume it was Legolas. I turned towards him and opened my eyes. I was met by soft, tired blue eyes dimly lit by the far fire.

"Eomer approached me" I couldn't let this go unsaid.

"About?" He raised an eye brow.

"He has interest in me"

"How so"

"He asked for a walk, in the realms of men, that is a form of courting correct?"

"Yes and I assume you informed him that you are already taken"

"Yes, but he was set in his intentions" his eyes drew cold.

"I will speak to him"

"No, let it go. Agitating him will only make him more upset. I think I wounded his pride enough. I just wanted to tell you. I refuse to hide anything from you anymore"

"And I with you" he said kissing me softly. I smiled and nuzzled my head into the crook of his neck. He wrapped his arms around me.

"Good night my star" he said kissing the top of my head then I felt his breathing even out as sleep took him.

"Good night, my prince" I said as sleep took me as well.

I woke the next morning to the Legolas' warm breath on my neck. I now lay on my side with my back to his chest and his arms around me. I slowly pulled away from him and his warmth. The morning air was cool and I pulled my cloak closer to my body. I stood and walked towards the sound of a stream. I splashed the water to my face and it quickly woke me up further with its chill.

"Good morning my dear" I jumped at the words and turned to see Gandalf sitting against a tree smoking his pipe.

"Good morning Gandalf" I said smiling at the wizard as my heart rate slowed.

"You are up rather early. You always were the last up" He said chuckling.

"Things have changed, I sleep more soundly now" It was the truth.

"Young love" he mumbled. I know I care deeply for Legolas but is it truly Love? I was lost quickly in my thoughts.

"Let us wake the others. I would like to reach Isengard by midday" he said standing up and walking back towards the camp.

We walked back together and Aragorn and the King stood speaking softly near the started fire. I went over and woke Legolas with a smile as his eyes blinked open.

"Someone was tired" I said as he sat up slowly.

"It has been weeks since I had such a restful night sleep"

"You look refreshed" I said leaning down and kissing his cheek softly. But he turned his head and stole a small kiss.

"Master Elf, I'm surprised at your boldness so early in the day" I said smiling as I pulled him up to his feet. He just smirked then walked over towards Gimili. The dwarf was always a fun one to wake up. I will stay my distance though; Gimili keeps his axe in hand while sleeping.

We were up and on our way once again within half an hour. We slowly went over the roots and fallen trees. After a few hours, I saw the light of day once again shining through the trees ahead of us. But the sight that we found upon leaving the trees was a sad one. The trees were gone, stumps and holes scattered the grey soil and ahead a great wall of stone stood before us. I saw the great tower of Saruman and it was very intimidating sight indeed. We went up to the walls and I noticed the soil turned darker with dampness. How strange.

We followed the outer wall until we came to a break in the stones. Then my ears picked up a laugh I thought I'd never hear again.

"Only, Pip, you've never done a hard day's work" I turned to look at Legolas who had a smile of relief forming on his lips as well. The hobbits were safe.

They came into sight and I saw Merry standing up smiling brighter than I thought possible for the hobbit. They were smoking their pipes and had cups of ale in their hands. At least they are enjoying themselves.

"Welcome My Lords…and Lady, to Isengard!"

"You young rascals, a merry hunt you've led us on!" Gimili shouted from behind Aragorn. The hobbits only raised their pipes to our company and I heard sighs of relief that they were safe.

"And now we find you feasting…and and smoking!" Gimili was just mad that it has been a couple days since he himself smoked.

"We are simply sitting on a field of victory, enjoying a few well-earned comforts" Pippin corrected.

"The salted pork is particularly good!" I could practically hear Gimili's stomach growling at the mention of something other than Lembas or stale bread. It sounded good even to me because, I too was tiring of the simple foods. Four months on nothing but bread and water makes me appreciate the things I had.

"Salted Pork?"

"Hobbits" Gandalf muttered under his breath.

"We're under orders from Tree Beard, who has taken over management of Isengard!" Merry stated happily.

"Come, I'm sure he'll be glad to see you Gandalf!" Pippin said as they led us to a better break in the wall where the horses could cross. Merry rode behind Eomer and Pippin behind Gamling.

We made our way through the murky water with broken stone and wooden devices scattered all around us. I was wondering what lied here before and what exactly happened.

As we drew closer to the black tower, I felt unease grow larger and larger in my body. I don't think this meeting is going to go over very well. I felt a soothing presence enter my mind.

Young One, remember things have happened that you cannot control. The white wizard has fallen into darkness with the Lord of All Darkness. Listen not to their words of deceit. Stay strong for I am always with you.

We came to the base of the tower and I saw a tree, moving… Trees don't move. This must be an Ent. I've only read about the great shepherds of the forest.

"Young Master Gandalf, I'm glad you've come. Wood and water, Stock and stone, I can master. But there's a wizard here to manage, locked in his tower" Tree Beard said looking up towards the tall tower.

"Show yourself, you coward" Aragorn whispered.

"Be careful. Even in defeat Saruman is dangerous" Gandalf corrected him.

"Then let's have his head and be done with it" Gimili stated. I agreed with the dwarf, this man is responsible for so many deaths.

"No! We need him alive" Gandalf quickly dismissed our thoughts. Everyone looked at him confused. Was justice not the reason we came?

"We need him to talk" he continued but silence crept into our group. I heard his footsteps on top the tower and felt Legolas' arm tighten around me.

"You have fought many wars and slain many men, Théoden King, and made peace after that. Can we not take council together, my old friend, like we once did? Can we not have peace, you and I?" " his voice was loud and carried down to us no matter the great distance between us. But then he appeared at the edge. His white robes were torn and greyed. His face held signs of many years in Middle Earth. His staff seemed to be his only support as he looked down upon our group. He looked like the defeated coward he was. After looking at the old wizard, my eyes turned to King Théoden. He surly would not be stupid enough to consent to his madness.

We shall have peace...when you answer for the burning of the Westfold, and the children that lie dead there! We shall have peace, when the lives of the soldiers, whose bodies were hewn even as they lay dead against the gates of the Hornburg are avenged!" the King looked up to Saruman, his eyes filled with pure hatred.

"When you hang form the gibbet, for the sport of your own crows...we shall have peace. We shall have peace when you pay for the death of my son!" I saw tears filling the great king's eyes as he spoke.

"Gibbets and crows. Fool!" Saruman shouted and he turned his attention to Gandalf.

""What do you want Gandalf Greyhame? Let me guess: the key of Orthanc, or perhaps Barad-Dur itself? Along with the crowns of the seven Kings and the Rods of the Five Wizards?!" The wizard sounded disgusted but he should think the same of himself first.

"Your treachery has already cost many lives, Saruman. Thousand more at now at risk, but you can save them. You were deep in the enemy's council" Gandalf did not seem angered as the rest of did. He remained calm as he spoke to his past friend.

"So you have come here for information. I have some for you." Saruman knew he held the advantage now, he could buy his freedom with information. He smiled as he reached into his robes and pulled out a dark orb that started to glow orange. The wizards lips were moving but I heard nothing.

"Maethriel…" I looked around for the source of the voice for it was none of our company nor Saruman. No one dare move, let alone speak.

"Maethriel…" I tensed and scanned the area once more.

"Join us. We know your past…and future" My eyes widened. It was Sauron talking to me. I put my hands to my ears and mumbled some of phrases I often heard my thoughts say to calm his thoughts. But the hissing voice continued.

"You could have your vision if you only help me gain what is rightfully mine. Where is the Halfling?"

"No!" I said shaking my head.

"Then you choose death not only for yourself"

Then I was walking. It was an open field full of dead Orcs, Uruks, Elves and men. As I looked around, one figure lying on the ground stood out ahead of me. I ran up to the body and saw blonde hair. I looked down and Legolas lay lifeless before me. His eyes closed, skin a sickly pale, and blood scattered over his face. On his neck, was the long slit that must have killed him. I fell to my knees as I saw that my immortality necklace lay clutched in his hand, covered in blood. Tears welled in my eyes as I put his hand to my cheek. I heard heavy footsteps and I looked up seeing a dark cloaked figure. It reached out a gloved hand as if to help me up.

"Just say yes and no pain will come to you or the one you love"

"No!" I said pulling back ending the darkness.

I opened my eyes and found myself trembling. Legolas' arms were tight around me and I heard his heart beating. Relief filled me and I could breath.

"Mae?" I heard him whisper in my ear.

"I'm fine" I said simply intertwining our fingers, not wanting to let go ever again. Then we turned our attention back to the wizard atop the tower.

"Something festers in the heart of Middle-Earth. Something you have failed to see. But the Great Eye has seen it. Even now, he presses his advantage. His attack will come soon." Saruman said as he put the orb back into his robes before looking back down at us with stern eyes.

"You are all going to die..." my gaze hardened. Nothing could be worse than what Sauron just showed me but I feared the possible truth in his words. Everyone around the group swallowed hard and seemed uneasy with the words. Gandalf led Shadowfax closer to the tower to confront him further.

"But you know this, don't you Gandalf?" Saruman looked towards to Aragorn.

"You cannot think this Ranger will ever sit upon the throne of Gondor. This exile, crept from the shadows, will never be crowned King!" Saruman shouted.

"What of this pathetic Half Blood that has managed to escape my grasp twice? Gondor will never have a King much less a Queen! The Dunedain are weak and shall never take the throne to stand against Sauron! These heirs that brought men so much hope are nothing!" I felt my blood come to a full boil. I reached back for my bow but Legolas caught my hand. I wanted nothing more than to shoot him myself for that.

"Gandalf does not hesitate to sacrifice those who are closest to him" Saruman started as if to mock Gandalf.

"Those he professes to love. Tell me...what words of comfort did you gave the Halfling before you send him to his doom? The path, you have set him on, can only lead to death"

Gandalf sighed, sad and sorrowful. Anger continued to grow inside each of us. I looked at Gimli, who caught my gaze. He looked at me and it took a while before I got the clue. But before I could even reach for my bow, he was already speaking.

"I've heard enough." Gimli roared and he called out to me

"Shoot him. Stick an arrow in his gob."

I tried to reach one of my arrows, but Gandalf stopped me and Legolas gave me a stern look of warning.

"No." Gandalf said, while he glanced at Gimli sternly before continuing.

"Come down Saruman, and your life will be spared." Only until Gandalf isn't looking…

"Save your pity and your mercy, I have no use for it!" he lifted his staff and huge fireball came shot out of the end of it, coming down on Gandalf with great speed. Gandalf didn't even tried to block it. The horses all become restless and pranced when the fireball engulfed Gandalf. I held up a hand to my mouth in fear as the flames dissipated. A moment later Gandalf was still there, unharmed. I signed in relief.

"Saruman your staff is broken!" Gandalf shouted looking up at the wizard.

From within his hands Saruman's staff splintered, falling in little pieces of wood and metal on the floor of the tower. The wizard looked in complete shock as he rubbed his hand from the wave of magic that I'm sure came out in the blast.

Behind Saruman, a figure appeared dressed in black. It was Gríma Wormetongue, the man who advised Théoden while under Saruman's control.

"Gríma, you need not follow him. You were not always as you are now. You were once a man of Rohan. Come down."

"A man of Rohan?" Saruman spat angrily.

"What is the house of Rohan but a thatched barn where brigands reek and drink, and where their brats roll on the ground with the dogs?! The victory of Helm's Deep does not belong to you, Théoden Horsemaster! You are a lesser son of greater sires."

I glanced at the King who was greatly hurt by that comment and he caught his breath before he called Gríma again.

"Come down. Be free of him."

"Free?" Saruman laughed loudly as if the king told a joke.

"He will never be free!"

I saw Gríma debating betraying Saruman and face his wrath, or stay safely by his side.

"Get down, listen not to their false promises!" Saruman sneered at him before he slapped him across his face. Gríma disappeared from sight but I still could hear his muffled steps. Gandalf sighed and tried again.

"Saruman! You are deep in the enemy's council, tell us what you know!" he pressured.

"You withdraw your guard and I'll tell you where your doom will be decided." Saruman said as he pointed at them.

"I will not be held prisoner here!"

And then something happened that even Gandalf could not have predicted. Gríma stabbed Saruman in the back. There were gasps all around me. No one expected this.

"Stop him." Gandalf ordered. Before I could even blink, Legolas grabbed and arrow and shot Gríma who fell back out of sight again. I had to blink her eyes to process what had happened. Saruman started to sway unsteadily and fell off the tower towards us. We watched his descent as it ended on a spiked wheel near the base of the tower. Gandalf turned around and looked at us, resting on the King.

"Send word to all our allies, and every corner of Middle-Earth that still stands free. The enemy moves fast. We need to know where he will strike."

"The filth of Saruman is washing away." Treebeard said as the wheel began to turn, carrying Saruman's body under the murky water.

Suddenly, Pippin climbed of his horse, into the water. He picked something up, the palantír Saruman held not minutes ago.

"Bless my bark!" Treebeard exclaimed as we all saw what the little hobbit held in his hands.

Pippin looked at it intensively and turned the orb in his hands curious as always.

"Peregrin Took! I'll take that my lad. Quickly now." Gandalf said as he reached to take the orb of darkness. Hesitantly, Pippin handed it over to him and Gandalf wrapped the orb in his own robe.

"We ride for Edoras, we can regroup there" the King spoke as he turned his horse around.

Holy Cow, 3500 words! That's a new longest chapter record! It's the least I can do I suppose since I've been gone for soooo long.

A lot happened so I hope I kept your attention. In the next chapter they return to Edoras… shocker there right?

But will Maethriel tell Legolas about her conversation with Sauron?

Anyways, hope you enjoyed it.

Remember to Review, Follow, and Favorite! I love them and it gives me more desire to write with everything going on.

-B