CONTENT WARNING: Rated M for Strong language, sexual content, violence

DISCLAIMER: I do not own anything created by Tolkein and Middle-Earth. This is for entertainment only.

A/N: Hey guys, this chapter took me longer to write than I anticipated, but I wanted to make sure that I was truly happy with how it turned out. As you can see, this is the longest chapter I've ever written so if I missed errors, I apologize. Enjoy and please review. XOXO - Presephone

Song of the Chapter: "Way Down We Go" by KALEO

The Ties That Bind


Egg cantered through the forest and Aurora smiled as the crisp autumn air whipped through her hair. The evening streams of sunlight was streaming through the branches as she maneuvered Egg through the trees and broke into the clearing with a victorious yell. She brought Egg to a soft walk as she turned him around to see Augustus break through the clearing on Odin with a sour expression.

Aurora laughed as she and Augustus stopped next to each other. She watched her guards emerge from the treetops and stand at the edge of the clearing, giving the siblings some time alone.

"Once again," Aurora beamed at him, "Egg is proven superior in all ways."

Augustus shook his head, "Not true. Odin could out eat Egg any day."

"Are you confirming that he's... obese?" Aurora smirked.

Augustus gave her a scornful look, "I really don't like you."

Aurora laughed again as they rode towards the river bank and dismounted. They sat on the short drop and watched the river snake past as the horses lazily grazed. Augustus shifted uncomfortably and looked to his sister, "Listen Auri… I have to tell you something."

"I was wondering when you would," She didn't look at him.

"W— What?" Augustus furrowed his brow.

"You've been shadowing Legolas like you're tied together for a three-legged race. I saw them bring you your uniforms last night," She turned and smirked at the concerned face of her brother, "And, You have a new bow and sword that oddly looks like the ones commissioned to other soldiers." She rested her hands in the grass behind her and laughed softly, "But I'm just spitballing here…"

Augustus sighed, "You are the worst… Did you just want to see how long I would fuss about telling you?"

"Obviously," Aurora laughed, "I enjoy watching you flounder." She sat up again and crossed her legs. She looked into the treeline again, watching the leaves dance in the wind, "It scares me, Agus."

Augustus sighed and took his sister's hand and gave it a comforting squeeze, "I know. But I feel like this is something I need to do. We know that you're going to be saving this tree, and you've already done so much already, I just feel like I'm not doing enough for our new home. I'm just—"

"Stop," Aurora squeezed his hand tighter, "You have done enough. I haven't even done a lot. I've just been preparing for this tree business… Now that I know it's a tree."

"You haven't done a lot?" He arched an eyebrow, "Are you kidding me, Your Majesty?"

Aurora laughed loudly, "Well played… You got me there. Just— Be careful, promise?"

"You know I will," Augustus pulled his sister into a close hug.

"Good," Aurora closed her eyes and hugged him tighter, "because if you get hurt I'll kill you."

"There isn't a doubt in my mind that you would," Augustus kissed the top of her head.

"Are you going with the convoy?" She asked.

Augustus nodded silently, "We leave first thing in the morning. Not a lot of the soldiers of Greenwood are going. We're primarily escorting the Rivendell and Lorien groups to the edge of the forest. I'll be gone for two days at the most."

"I kinda miss you already."

"I am going to tell everyone you said that," Augustus teased.

Aurora narrowed her eyes, "They will never believe you."


Thranduil's head rested on the edge of the spring as he felt the water start to soothe his aching muscles. He had been working with the other Elven leaders with last-minute details regarding the prisoner transport and it had led to a pounding headache. As he relaxed, he heard the subtle steps that made him smile softly before he even opened his eyes. When he finally did the beautiful sight of Aurora removing the last of her clothes greeted him. She finished removing the braid as she stepped into the hot spring and offered an enticing smile, "Room for another in here?"

He reached for her and their fingers laced together as he pulled her close. He happily exhaled as she straddled his lap and pressed a brief yet passionate kiss to his neck. She ran her hands up his chest and interlocked her fingers at the back of his neck. He groaned softly and lifted his chin higher as she continued her assault on his neck, "I suppose there could be room for one more if they meet the approved criteria."

She hummed into his throat and nipped the juncture of his neck and shoulder, "What criteria is that, Aran nin (my King)?"

He shuddered as Aurora rolled her hips into lifted his hips to meet hers. He ran his hands up her back and wrapped his fingers around the top of her shoulders and slightly pulled her back. Her jade eyes shined as beautifully as the first time they had shared a hot spring. He tucked a curled lock of hair behind her ear. He leaned forward and pressed his forehead gently against hers, "Bind with me."

Aurora chuckled softly, "I thought that's where this whole engagement of ours was leading."

"Aurora," Thranduil's voice had taken on a serious tone as he cupped her cheek with his hand and looked her in the eyes again, "Bind with me. Now. Tonight."

"Thranduil?" Aurora's brow furrowed slightly, "I thought that there was supposed to be a whole ceremony and celebration?"

Thranduil nodded, "In a sense, yes. The celebration is just that… A feast to celebrate the couples union. But the only ceremony performed is the binding. I give you my word, we'll have an extraordinary celebration. But I don't want— I can't wait another moment to truly be with you."

"You know I want this as much as you," Aurora ran her fingers along his cheekbone and he leaned into her hand, "why the sudden urgency?"

"I almost lost you," Thranduil held her closer resting his forehead on her shoulder and took several deep breaths. When he spoke again his voice was soft, "The rage in the library when that monster...I had never felt anything like it. You passed out in my arms and I didn't know if you were going to wake up. I sat there holding your hand and I knew at that moment that I didn't want to wait another moment to make you mine." Thranduil took her hands from around his neck and pressed a kiss to each palm. He pressed her hands to his chest, "I don't know what will happen when we go to heal the Tree of Eryn Galen; but, I don't want to go there without having joined with my fea-match. My true love, and the reason my life is complete after 6,000 years of searching."

As he spoke, several tears had sprung from his eyes which caused Aurora to begin to cry herself. He was truly laying his heart in front of her. He was so vulnerable and open… And breathtakingly beautiful.

She wiped the tears from his eyes and kissed him softly. She stood up in the spring and grabbed his hand, pulling him after her. He stopped them at the base of the stairs leading out of the hot spring and she turned to look at him. His brows furrowed as he stared at her, "Ilma nin (my Starlight)?"

Aurora wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him closer. When she kissed him there was an instant flame ignited between them. She ran her fingers into his hair and pulled him closer, slipping her tongue into his mouth. He returned her kiss and tilted her head upwards so he deepened the kiss further. Aurora was the first to pull away, taking several shaky breaths and smiling up at him, "Well, we aren't going to bind in the hot spring, are we?"


The guards watched as Lord Alistair departed back up the staircase from the dungeons. He had just delivered Priamos' last meal before he would be moved to the deepest cell. They were instantly on edge when they heard footsteps approaching from the opposite direction.

Both guards unsheathed their swords as one called out into the darkened corridor, "Ma den (Who is there)?"

"Who, indeed," he drawled as he stepped into the light. The guards dropped to a knee as their knee, "The dedication to your duty is admirable."

"Le fael, Duath Aran nin (Thank you, my Shadow King)," they spoke in unison.

"Rise," he gestured to the guards as he stepped forward. He looked in at Priamos who was standing in his cell, "Are you clear on the plan, Priamos?"

"Yes, Aran nin (my King)," Priamos nodded.

"Good, these guards will be the ones to aid you tomorrow," The Shadow King glanced back the other guards, "But I will say this, Priamos… If you fail me again, I will not show you mercy another time."

Priamos tried to steady his voice as he swallowed hard, "Understood, Aran nin (my King)."


The arrow loosed and connected just left of the center of the target. The horse continued it's canter as its rider recollected the reins and brought the horse to a halt as Augustus approached him.

"Well done, Haldir." Augustus smiled up at him.

"Thank you, Master Augustus," Haldir dismounted, "Although it frustrates me that I am still missing the center. Unfortunately with the sun now setting, I don't feel my aim will improve any."

The pair started walking into the stable, "It's alright... When your instinct tells you to prepare to shoot, that's when you fire a second earlier."

"That feels counter-intuitive, but I suppose I can try again in the morning before we begin our journey." Haldir clapped a shoulder on Augustus's shoulder as they continued into the stable. They looked up just as they saw Lady Galadriel and Gandalf walking towards them. Haldir stopped and bowed reverently to his lady and Augustus quickly followed suit."Good evening to the both of you," The older wizard smiled at the pair, "Master Augustus, might the lady and I have a moment of your time?"

"Of course," Augustus nodded and turned to Haldir, "I'll see you at dawn for more training."

Augustus followed the pair as they led him to a private study that had been set aside for Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn. They all sat around the fire for a long while, before Augustus spoke up again, "Is everything alright?"

"Of course, Augustus," Galadriel smiled warmly, "there is just something that we would like to discuss with you. It involves Aurora and the healing of the Tree of Eryn Galen."


Aurora's legs wrapped around him and she ran her foot up and down his calf. Thranduil rolled his hips into her and she moaned into his mouth. His hands gripped the side of her ribs and her hips as he pressed his tongue into her mouth.

He began kissing across her jaw and nipped at the pulse point below her ear. She gasped as he took her earlobe into his mouth and rolled it around in his mouth. His breath was warm on her ear and it caused her to shudder underneath him.

"Aurora, you must listen closely," Thranduil panted as he licked along the length of her ear and nipped the tip. He relished at the feel of her trembling beneath him and the moan that escaped her lips, "when the time arrives, I'll recite the vows and you need to repeat them exactly as I do, do you understand?"

"I understand," Aurora pulled him closer and tried to roll into him, "Thranduil, please…"

Thranduil groaned as he pressed further into her as he continued kissing down her neck. He cupped her breast in his hand and his thumb flicked across one of her nipples and she sharply inhaled. His hand continued its tease as his mouth claimed the other nipple. As he lavished her breasts with attention, his other hand drifted across her stomach and down to her core.

Aurora whimpered as Thranduil slipped two fingers into her and her back arched against him. She ran her hands through his hair and gasped as he curled a finger inside of her and immediately pushed a third into her. She pulled his hair and he lifted his head to look at her and gave her a lascivious grin and kissed down her stomach. His fingers continued pumping into her as his lips captured her bud in his mouth and her hips bucked up at the sensation. He licked across her core and dipped his tongue inside of her. Aurora moaned loudly and rolled her hips against his mouth and she could feel his hum of approval.

Thranduil picked up speed with his fingers and she soon was continually rolling her hips against his mouth as he rolled his tongue over her bud. He felt her beginning to tremble against him and she started to tighten around his fingers. Aurora could feel herself about to fall over the edge as Thranduil pushed her further until she couldn't handle it anymore. "AHThranduil!" She screamed as she saw stars behind her eyelids. Thranduil continued pumping his fingers to draw out her orgasm until she was panting.

Thranduil crawled back on top of her and kissed her deeply. She could taste herself on his lips and it only began to arouse her again. She gripped the back of his neck and rolled him onto his back. Her hand quickly wrapped around him and she began to fervently stroke him. Thranduil rolled his eyes and moaned as Aurora swirled her tongue around his tip. She took him into her mouth and Thranduil's head dropped against the pillows.

His fingers laced into her hair as her tongue rolled around him while she moved on him. Her hands drifted up to the v-line of his hips and her fingers traced those lines causing Thranduil bucked his hips. As he arched up off the bed Aurora's arms looped around to his lower back. While she continued her ministrations, She began moving his hips towards her until he could feel himself going deeper into her throat and it inflamed an animalistic urge within him to possess her. He continued to thrust into her mouth as she moaned around him.

"By the Valar!" Thranduil growled as he knotted her hair around his fingers, "Meleth nin (my Love)... Nan i 'aear ah in elin! (By the sea and stars)..."

Aurora slowed her pace until she lifted her mouth off him, "Thranduil..." Aurora crooned and waited until he managed to look down at her. His eyes were glazed over with primal lust, "Aniron cened I chent gin n'i gellog. (I want to see your eyes when you cum)."

Thranduil quivered and his chest heaved as Aurora licked the base of him up to the tip without breaking his stare. She slowly filled her mouth again and sharply exhaled as he began thrusting. "Puitho, Aurora! (Fuck, Aurora)," Thranduil yelled while holding her head in his hands. Her tongue circled him again, "Avo dharo! (Don't stop)."

Aurora dug her fingers into his hip as his thrusts became erratic. He felt the pressure building as he began to twitch inside of her mouth. The feeling of pumping into her soft mouth while her tongue twisted around him was enough to send him over the edge. He slowed his thrusts but Aurora refused to slow down as his orgasm ripped through him. After she finished swallowing everything he had to offer, she licked him once more until she placed a sensual kiss on the tip. Thranduil dropped his head onto the pillows and panted as he felt Aurora glide on top of him and fell next to his side. He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close, pressing a kiss to her forehead.

She tilted her head upward and he pressed his lips to hers in a fervid kiss that seemed to hold an unspoken promise of what would follow. Her arm wrapped into his hair again and pulled him closer to her as his tongue slipped into her mouth. The kiss heated up as his other arm gripped her side and she moved to straddle his waist. She could feel him pressed against her thigh and he was ready to continue their evening.

Aurora rolled her hips against him and Thranduil moaned into her mouth as he clung to her hips and began moving her against him. He watched as her mouth dropped open and released a sensual gasp. Thranduil was about to push into her when he looked her in the eyes once more, "Are you ready, Ilma nin (my Starlight)?"

"Yes, Vuin nin (my Beloved). Thranduil I'm yours," Aurora panted, "Make me yours and give yourself to me."

Thranduil kissed her passionately as he thrust into her and they both gasped in pleasure. He set a steady rhythm and she met him with every thrust. She looked so stunning beneath him as she moved against him. Her fingernails dug into his shoulders and he hissed at the feeling. He started to thrust into her further as the pleasure began to overtake him.

He cupped her cheek and looked in her jade eyes, "I, Thranduil, vow before the Valar, to bind myself to you, Aurora," As he spoke, a warm sensation he had never felt began to spread throughout him. He felt it seep into his bones as he continued moving inside of her. "Her fea is mine and my heart will dwell within her from this breath until my last."

Thranduil gasped as the sudden warmth shot through his veins and felt a pleasure that he had never experienced in his life. He bit down on the junction of her neck and shoulder, causing Aurora to scream out as he began thrusting harder. He pushed her hips further into the bed and grabbed her thigh, hooking it over the crook of his arm. The shift in angle caused him to push even deeper into her.

Aurora tried to take several breaths to focus. She pulled Thranduil's face back up to meet hers, his piercing blue eyes were glazed over but he held her stare, "I, Aurora, vow before the Valar, to bind myself to you, Thranduil," The same warmth crept over her and she briefly closed her eyes at the feeling. He kissed her passionately and move his hand from her hip to around the back of her neck, "His fea is mine and my heart will dwell within him from this breath until my last." The warmth shot through her veins causing her to scream.

Thranduil continued thrusting into her as they felt the tendrils of warmth passing between them until they couldn't tell where one stopped and the other began; both closing their eyes as the pleasure threatened to consume them. Soon, they not only felt the warmth passing between them but began to see two lights circling one another until they formed into one.

As the lights collided there was a burst of light and they both felt an explosion of carnal ecstasy that propelled them over the edge. They clung to one another as they fell into the crashing waves of euphoria. They lay together for a long time holding one another, their foreheads joined and eyes closed while they savored the moment. Their breath began to steady as Thranduil ran a hand through Aurora's hair and watched as her eyes fluttered open. She smiled up at him and cupped his cheek, "Hey, you."

"Hey, you," Thranduil leaned down and sweetly kissed her. He tucked a sweaty strand of hair behind her ear, "Meleth marthannen nin, Herves nin. (My true love, my wife)."

"Le i veleth e-guil nin, Hervenn laich. (You are the love of my life, sweet husband)." Aurora wrapped her hand around the nape of his neck and pulled him down for another kiss. She pressed her forehead to his and looked deep into his eyes and whispered, "I can't believe I get to spend the rest of my life with you."

Thranduil arched his eyebrow and gave her a sly grin, "Wait… Were you serious about that eternity thing— Ow!" Aurora punched him in the stomach. He laughed as he moved to lay next to her, "You know it's considered treason to strike your King, right?"

Aurora propped herself up on one of her arms and rolled her eyes, "You know it's considered treason to be an asshole to your Queen, right?"

"Of course you are right," Thranduil laughed and bowed his head in mock shame, "I will accept whatever punishment you see fit, Bereth Ilma nin (my Starlight Queen.)."

"Yes you will," Aurora cocked her head upward and smirked, "I'm sure I can think of something you can do as reparation." She captured Thranduil's lips in another heated kiss and his arm immediately wrapped around her waist as she rolled on top of him again.


Aurora walked down the corridor as the sun began to warm the hall. Her guards trailed behind her and their footsteps echoed with each step. Aurora laced her hands in front of her as they walked out into the morning sunlight and towards the main gate. She looked towards the main gate and saw the large group of soldiers preparing for the journey ahead. She caught sight of Augustus finishing placing his sword in its sheath and adjusted Odin's tack.

As she got closer she felt a sensation of happiness grow in her chest that felt as if it were attached to a string. She looked around and saw Thranduil looking at her from across the courtyard. He gave her a subtle smile and she felt that sensation grow. The bond that connected them was going to take some adjusting, but it made her feel even more loved now that she could experience his true feelings towards her. She smiled to herself as she made her way over to Augustus.

"Hey, Rory."

Aurora felt as if a block of ice had been pushed into her chest. The sensation of fear spread to her arms and she froze. She closed her eyes and took several deep breaths. She knew that he was going to be here, this giant soldier escort was mostly because of him. He couldn't hurt her anymore and yet she was still petrified just by the sound of his voice.

"Come on," Sam drawled, his voice penetrating through her attempt at calm, "don't I get a goodbye ki—"

"No dhinen! (Be silent!)"

Aurora's eyes snapped open just as Sankrovyn stormed past her and to the cart that Sam was confined to. She felt a hand on her back and she jerked away in fear. "Av-'osto, Aurora. (Don't be afraid, Aurora.)" She heard Thranduil speak gently against her ear. His arm wrapped around her waist and pulled her closer to him as her guards moved in front of their King and Queen.

Did… Did you hear him? Thranduil heard Aurora's scared voice in her head.

No, meleth nin (my love), His voice replied, I felt your fear through the bond.

He put pressure on her back and led her away as Sankrovyn continued berating Sam. Aurora looked up at him and stepped closer into him as they walked. "I'm sorry," she whispered, "I knew… I knew her was going to be here but I—"

"You don't need to explain anything to me, Aurora," Thranduil interrupted her, "Just know that he will never hurt you again."

He held her closer as they walked towards the soldiers readying their horses. She could feel herself relax the further they walked away from Sam and towards her brother. Augustus looked up and smiled as he saw the pair approaching. He walked towards them and offered both a reverent bow but before he finished straightening Aurora was wrapping her arms around his neck.

"Listen up, Loser," Aurora spoke harshly in his ear but he couldn't help but smile, "if you let something happen to you while you're out there, I'm going to punch you. Deal?"

"Whatever you say, Your Majesty, Ow—" Augustus laughed and then flinched as she shoved him in the shoulder. He stepped back and looked down at her, he placed both of his hands on her shoulders, "Auri, I'll be with Legolas and the other soldiers the entire time. I'll be back in two days."

Aurora smiled weakly and nodded. Augustus squeezed her shoulders and pulled her into another tight hug, "Will you try and relax, stupid?"

"If I recall it is not acceptable to address your Queen in such a manner," Haldir laughed as he and Legolas stopped in front of the siblings. The pair bowed to Aurora and Thranduil, who had been standing silently watching the twins with the hint of a smile.

Legolas smiled wide, "I promise you, Aurora, your brother will not leave my sight. Even if I must order him to do so."

My Lady, Aurora heard the calming voice in her head, might I have a private word before departure?

Aurora looked over her shoulder and saw Lady Galadriel watching her. She gave her a subtle nod and walked around the corner. Aurora turned back to the gathered group, "I need to go for a minute," She pointed a finger at Augustus, "If you leave without one more goodbye, I'll kick you in the shin."

Everyone laughed as she turned away and squeezed Thranduil's hand and she noted his arched eyebrow. Lady Galadriel, Aurora explained to him, she's asked for a private word, I'll be back soon.

Aurora walked to the stable and followed around to the side, she turned around and looked at her guards and put her hands in front of her to stop them, "Hey guys, Lady Galadriel has asked for a private word. Can you… Watch me from here?"

"Of course, Bereth Vuin (Beloved Queen)," Dusan spoke up.

Aurora made her way to where Galadriel stood to look over the training field. Aurora stood next to her for a long moment and she began to feel anxious for some reason. "I hear congratulations is in order, Bereth Aurora (Queen Aurora)." Aurora felt her cheeks flush and Galadriel delicately laughed, "It's customary for Elven Leaders to inform others when marriages occur. It's a beautiful moment to share with one's fea-match. There is no need for embarrassment. I am truly happy for you, Aurora."

"Thank you, Galadriel. I don't think I've ever been happier," Aurora smiled, "Is everything alright?"

"The next time we see each other it will be at the Tree of Eryn Galen. However, before we are there I need to discuss something important with you," Galadriel kept looking out at the field as the wind tossed her hair, "You will be healing the Tree through the magic you've stored through Ondo Ilma, but it won't only be through the stone." Aurora's hand drifted to the stone that had almost become a part of her, "You will also be pulling from the magic that still flows within you."

Aurora shifted towards Galadriel, "Forgive me, but you seem concerned by this."

"This is something that I didn't want to say in front of the others, as I knew that King Thranduil would refuse to allow you to even leave the palace," Galadriel turned and took Aurora's hands. Aurora noticed that Galadriel had a saddened expression, "My sweet, dear, child… The amount of magic you will need to use to heal the tree is a tremendous amount.

Aurora watched as Galadriel trailed off and concern began to grow inside of her, "Galadriel? What does that mean?"

Galadriel looked back out to the fields, " Aurora, the amount of magic you'll need to expel will tremendously drain you. To the point that…"

Realization dawned on Aurora and she felt a heavy weight in her chest. She met Galadriel's gaze, cleared her throat, and whispered, "Is this going to kill me?"

"Possibly."


"You know you have to let me go eventually, right?" Augustus joked but pulled her a little closer, "The soldiers are moving out, I need to go."

Aurora pulled away and looked at him, "I love you, Augustus."

"I love you too, Aurora," Augustus pulled her into another quick hug and then strode over to Odin and pulled himself into his saddle. He stuck his tongue out at his sister and rode out of the main gates. Aurora stood looking at the closed gate for a long time already missing Augustus but feeling a sense of relief knowing that Sam was gone.

She stood in the same spot for what felt like hours until she felt a drop of rain on her head. The rain began to fall more consistently when she felt the weight of a cloak on her shoulders and a hood was placed on her head. She turned to look over her shoulder and saw Thranduil looking down at her.

He placed a hand on her cheek and the other across her stomach until his fingers looped around her waist, "I know you're scared for him, Ilma nin (my Starlight)," Thranduil turned her and started leading her back to the palace, "But standing out in the rain watching a closed gate will not bring him back faster."

"I know," Aurora sighed, "and it's not like we haven't been away from each other before. I just— Something feels different."

"Different how?" Thranduil inquired as they walked back into their parlor, shutting the door behind them. He shrugged off his cloak along with Aurora's and placed them by the fireplace. He walked back over and wrapped his arms around her.

"I don't know…" Aurora shook her head, leaning into his chest, "It just feels off. I don't like him being out there with Sam."

"Aurora," Thranduil tilted her head upward so she was looking him in the eyes, "It pains me to see you like this."

Aurora sighed, "I'm being silly, I know… I'm probably just jealous because he has a new hobby that doesn't involve me. I just need to stay distracted until they return."

"Distracted, you say?" Thranduil arched an eyebrow while leaning forward to begin trailing warm kisses down her neck.

Aurora giggled, "You are insatiable."

Thranduil ran his hands up her sides and ran a thumb along the other side of her breast as his tongue drifted along her collarbone, causing Aurora's breath to hitch, "Would you like me to stop?"

Aurora laced her fingers into the hair at the back of his neck and gave it a rough pull. Thranduil growled as he met her gaze with a predatory grin. She seized his lips in a passionate kiss; his tongue forced its way into her mouth when he pushed her up against their bedroom door. Thranduil moaned into her mouth as she suddenly cupped him in her hand. She pushed her head back against the door as she relished Thranduil's wanton expression, "Don't you dare."


The convoy had been traveling for several hours and the rain had only complicated everything. They had just reached the clearing which was only a quarter of the way they wanted to be at this point. They had needed to slow their pace which would add another half day on to their total journey. Augustus already knew that Aurora was going to kill him for being late and he hadn't quite figured out to contact her through thoughts. If he even could.

His musing was interrupted by a screech that echoed across the sky causing all the soldiers to go on edge and search the skies for the source, but all were familiar with the sound. Legolas looked to Augustus, "Guard the prisoner with the Marchwarden."

Legolas rode ahead with several other soldiers while Haldir and Augustus rode to where Sam was being held. They circled him as others ran around him and up the trees.

"What's going on out there, Augustus?" Sam drawled.

"Shut up." Augustus shot back.

"I'm just concerned," Sam smirked, "it would be a shame if something happened…"

Haldir turned his horse towards the prisoner and drew his sword, holding it to Sam's neck, "Speak what you know or hold your tongue."

Before Sam could give a snarky reply he gave a malevolent grin as the calls from the tops of the trees began.

"Orcs! One thousand or more!"

"Hundreds of Spiders!"


Thranduil was laying on his back looking up at the vaulted ceiling. He didn't know what he had done to earn Aurora, but he would spend the rest of his life trying to prove to himself that he deserved her. He looked forward to waking up to Aurora every day for the rest of his life. He smiled to himself and couldn't remember a happier time aside from the birth of his son.

Ada! Thranduil shot up at the sound of his son's panicked voice, We're under attack. Orcs, Spiders. We need more soldiers to ensure our victory.

We will ride as soon as we are able, Thranduil replied to his son.

He flung the sheets away from him and rushed to his closet. He began to dress as quickly as he could and he opened his mind once more, Sankrovyn! Immediately alert Alistair that we need all available soldiers to ride to the convoy. Ensure that my armor and weapons are ready. We leave when I arrive. Thranduil left the closet and descended the stairs to the hot spring. Halfway down the stairs he gripped his chest and felt dread wash over him. He took a deep breath as he reached the bottom stair.

"Aurora!" Thranduil yelled as he saw Aurora on the floor. She was wrapped in a towel with her hair already pulled back in a braid and she was clinging to her chest. Tears were streaming down her face as she looked up to Thranduil; she only needed one look to know that something was wrong.

"What happened to Augustus?" She choked out between sobs.

Thranduil rushed to her and picked her up off the ground, pulling her close, "I was contacted by Legolas… There's been an attack. They've requested additional soldiers and I am preparing to ride with them."

Aurora trembled under his hands, "Aug— Augustus?"

"Legolas said nothing about him," Thranduil reassured her as they walked back up the stairs. She moved silently to her closet, "I promise, meleth nin (my love), that I will keep you informed as soon as I reach the— What are you doing?"

Thranduil arched an eyebrow as she emerged from her closet in her riding gear, "Aurora? Don't think for a minute that I—"

"Stop it, Thranduil." Aurora snapped at him, "You are going because it's your duty as a King, I understand. But you're also riding into this battle as a father. I may not be officially the Queen yet, but I am a sister. You will not leave me here."

Thranduil let her words hang in the air for a long moment; knowing she was right, but not wanting to accept what that means. He walked towards her and pulled her into a heated kiss. She melted into him during their brief embrace. He broke away, grabbed her hand and they quickly walked from their parlor. Aurora's guards looked startled to see them fully dressed.

"We will ride for the convoy immediately," Thranduil informed them without slowing down and they quickly fell in step behind them, "You will protect Queen Aurora, she is to never be out of your sight."

They emerged through the front doors to see soldiers quickly saddling horses and packing and Sankrovyn stood by the open main gates in full battle armor, they were shouting orders as they held Thranduil's Elk and Egg. The pair walked up to the Lords and Thranduil swung his leg up into his saddle and turned his Elk towards the waiting soldiers, "We ride to aid our fellow soldiers. They face the dark forces of Dol Guldur and our aid will assure their victory."

Thranduil turned his Elk towards the open gate to see Alistair and Sankrovyn had also mounted their horses and waited for their King to lead them. He looked to Aurora atop Egg as he passed them and paused next to her. Aurora tilted her head towards him, "We're ready to follow you, Aran nin (my King)."

"They are ready to follow us Bereth nin (my Queen)," Thranduil looked to her, "You will always ride by my side." Without another word, they rode out of the gate.

Aurora opened her mind, We're coming, Augs.


They rode as fast as they could until they began encountering spiders. As they neared the clearing the spider webs grew thicker until they were barely moving faster than a walk. The spiders were attacking with such ferocity that Aurora temporarily feared they would be overwhelmed. She stopped holding her breath as they broke into the clearing and faced an entirely different scene.

Orcs and elves engaged in a heated battle as spiders skirted the edge of the trees. Blood drenched the grass as elves and monsters fell. "We need to locate the Elven Leaders and Legolas, spread out and find them," Thranduil ordered and the newly arrived soldiers began to engage in the battle. The Elvenking's eyes darted around the clearing, Go to Legolas, Aurora's voice broke into his thoughts, I will find Augustus.

Thranduil hesitated as he looked over to meet Aurora's gaze. She moved Egg over and stood right next to him and she reached out to take his hand, "Find your son."

"Mellon nin (my Friend,)" Sankrovyn rode up to Aurora's other side, "I will care for her and keep her. Gweston. (I promise)"

Her life is in your hands, Thranduil opened his mind to Sankrovyn as they held each other's gaze, if she dies I will not survive it.

Athon berio den cuil nin, Thranduil. (I will protect her with my life, Thranduil.), Sankrovyn reassured.

Thranduil gave him a short nod, "Min Bereth varno, (Our Queen's guard)" he turned and addressed the quartet surrounding his wife, Berio din a avo dheo annin (Protect them and do not fail me.). Lord Alistair, with me to find the Prince."

He turned and looked back to Aurora and released her hand, instead his fingers followed the lines of her cheek and jawline. His brow furrowed at the thought of her being out of her sight and he pushed his forehead to hers. When he spoke his voice was so soft that only they could hear, "I will be with you as fast as I can, Ilma nin (my Starlight)."

"Sooner than you think, meleth nin,(my love)."

Aurora pressed a chaste kiss to his lips and Thranduil's fingers tightened on her cheek as he momentarily deepened the kiss, "I love you."

"I love you."

Without another glance, Thranduil, Alistair, and the remaining soldiers sprang into battle with swords drawn. Aurora paused another moment before she felt pressure on her shoulder, she turned around to see Sankrovyn looking at her, "Let's find Augustus, Bereth nin (My Queen)."

All of them galloped along the edge of the forest scanning to the battle for her brother. Aurora pulled Egg up short as she caught a glimpse of Odin on the far end of the clearing, "There!" She gave a sharp whistle and Egg galloped into the combat.

"Aurora!" Sankrovyn shouted behind her and he galloped after her. He and her guards rode as hard as they could, cutting down Orcs in his way. They maneuvered across the field quickly and came upon Augustus just as a large Orc engaged him. Aurora jumped from Egg, drew her sword, and swung her blade and the Orcs head dropped from its shoulder. Her guards and Sankrovyn quickly began pushing back the orcs and spiders so they didn't get too close to the twins.

As the orc corpse dropped to the ground Aurora looked into the stunned face of her brother. He gaped at her for a moment and then his face broke into a wide grin, "That was the most badass thing I have ever seen!"

Aurora stared at him incredulously, "Can you focus up, please?"

Augustus stepped closer to her, "Come on, Auri… You gotta learn to see the silver lining in—"

Aurora screamed due to several things at once. The first was the paralyzing pain in her chest that knocked all the air from her lungs. The second was the long blade that had broken through Augustus's stomach. He looked down at his stomach as his sword dropped to the ground.

"Auri…"

The world seemed to move in slow-motion around Aurora as Augustus's pained eyes looked up at her. He murmured her name as the blade was pulled out of his stomach and he began to crumble to the ground. Aurora lunged forward and caught Augustus as his knees hit the grass and she pulled him close. She grasped his red-stained tunic as his blood continued to deep through her fingers.

Ilma nin (my Starlight), Thranduil's panicked voice echoed in her head, What's wrong?

"Augs…" Aurora lamented as tears streamed down her face, "Augs— No… You gotta just… Just stay awake. Everything is going to be— You're gonna be okay. Just— SANKROVYN!"

She heard Sankrovyn order her guards to continue fighting off the creatures as she felt him hover above her before dropping down onto his knees next to her. Aurora wouldn't take her eyes off of Augustus, "Sankro— I can't… I can't stop the— Augs, you gotta keep your eyes open."

Augustus smiled weakly and lifted his hand to Aurora's face, "Hey now… No tears, Stupid. I'm… I'm gonna—" he broke into a coughing fit that caused blood to begin trickling from the corner of his mouth, "I'm gonna always be here."

"Of course you are, Loser…" Aurora tried to laugh but her tears only fell faster, "We just— We need to get you to Kasterren and she'll—"

"Aurora," Augustus cut her off and tried to take a deep breath, "I'm always gonna be here… Just like Ada and Naneth."

Aurora, Thranduil's voice rose in her thoughts again, Where are you?

Aurora shook her head, "Don't even say that. We just need to—" Aurora broke off as Augustus had another coughing fit.

"Aurora," Sankrovyn spoke softly, "We need to get you out of—"

"NO!" Aurora shouted, "I am not leaving him!"

"Hey," Augustus strained to speak louder than a whisper, "He's right… You have to stay safe. You have a Realm to save and a Kingdom to rule."

"Augustus..." Aurora sobbed, "I— I don't know who I am without you."

"Of course you do," Augustus smiled, "because it's who you've always been. Extraordinary, Annoying, and the best sister I could've asked…"

"Augs… Augustus… AUGUSTUS!"

Slowly his head sagged to the side and fell against her chest.

The moment he went limp against her she felt something snap within her chest. She released a guttural scream that echoed around the clearing while she curled over, pulling his body closer to her. As her screams continued, all present saw the light shining through the trees darken until one would believe it was midnight.

AURORA! Thranduil was screaming in her head.

Aurora released another scream and she barely noticed the arm that wrapped around her and pulled her up. She buried her head into a chest as a head rested down against her. "I'm so sorry," he whispered, sorrow lacing every word, "I didn't want to it to be this way…"

Aurora furrowed her brow at his last comment and she looked up into his grey eyes, "What did you—"

She cut herself off and looked to the large figure that came to stand over them. A large, bloodied sword was clutched in his hand. The sword that had just been pulled back out of her brother. Her breath hitched in her throat and her blood ran cold as she looked into the faceless hood of the Nazgul.

"Everything I've done has been for you, meleth nin a Duath Bereth nin (my love and my Shadow Queen)," he whispered as he knocked her unconscious and pressed a soft kiss to her temple. He quickly picked her up as the combat continued around them and approached the Nazgul, leveling a hard glare at him.

"Mabo den an Dol Guldur. (Take her to Dol Guldur). If she is harmed in any way, you die by my hand."

Sankrovyn carefully handed Aurora to the Nazgul who stared down at him for a long moment before bowing his head, Akoth, Dab Burzum Ran. (Yes, my Shadow King.)