Chapter 9
"Hey. Get up." A deep voice spoke roughly. Calinril turned and looked up, prepared to scold whoever had rudely disrupted his sleep.
"Who are you?" he replied with an annoyed tone.
Calinril did not recognize the elf standing over him. He had dark brown hair and grey eyes. He didn't look quite as fair as most elves but authority shown clearly in his voice. His attire was that of Elrond's royalty and it was obvious that he was of his blood also. Rising quickly, Calinril apologized many times.
"Please forgive me, sir. For I did not know of your ranking. Is there any way that I may help you? Have you come with Lord Elrond?"
The Rivendell elf just rolled his eyes and spoke.
"No, I came myself. I have been told that you have a certain elf in your company that I'm particularly interested in seeing. Lord Elrond has told me of news about a female warrior who has been returned and I suspect her to be my daughter."
A gleam of mischief and revenge appeared in Calinril's eyes as a smile crept across his face. Legolas wouldn't be too fond of this.
"The one you speak of. Does her name happen to be Lorelein?"
"Yes, it does. Now is she with you or not?" the elf's tone seemed impatient.
"That she is. Follow me and I will show you to her." Calinril answered, ignoring the fact that the elf was blatantly disrespectful to him, and lead the way silently to the tree where Legolas and Lorelein laid sleeping. Stepping close to the pair, he pointed to the young female.
"That looks like my Lorelein, yes. But who is that?"
"That's Legolas. He seems to have taken quite a liking to her Sir….what is your name again? I don't think you've told me."
"My name Morcam Elenhith. Now why is this fool near my daughter? Who is his father? For I do not approve of his close contact with Lorelein."
"Master Morcam, that is Prince Legolas of Mirkwood. His father is King Thranduil. Are you sure you would want to confront him with the matter? For I don't believe he would take you insulting his son kindly." Calinril replied, for even though he wasn't fond of Legolas, he feared Thranduil.
"That is Thranduil's son?" Morcam asked, his opinion of Legolas quickly changing. For he was full of more greed than any man. He did not care for anyone but himself and could be considered a disgrace to the race of Elves. Though he wasn't always this way, something long ago changed him and he gradually became weak and selfish. Some said that his soul had faded away and all that was left was a greedy heart searching only to please himself.
"That he is."
"Then that was my mistake. Tell me when he wakes for I'm eager to meet him. His family seems worthy enough for my daughter."
Calinril agreed before escorting Morcam to meet the Lord and Lady.
It wasn't long after Morcam's appearance that Lorelein awoke. She didn't need to open her eyes to know Legolas was beside her. She could feel him next to her, breathing softly. His hand held her gently but protectively against his torso and she knew that he had made sure no one would bother her throughout the night.
By now she trusted Legolas with her life and didn't doubt anything he said. She had decided, when the time came, to return with her mother to his people. At least then she would know he was there to support her if needed. Plus, she had a strange feeling that it was her mother who would want to take her in more than her father. Not to mention the disturbing dream that she had the night before.
"The sun hasn't even shown herself and yet you're awake. Any particular reason?" Legolas said, his voice soft and husky showing that he had just woken up.
"I don't think." She replied, turning her head to look at him.
"Then do you mind going back to sleep? I'm still tired and I don't want you up and wandering around while most are still asleep. Ever since we left Lothlorien I have felt as if a something dark was lingering nearby and that feeling has only gotten stronger overnight."
Lorelein was about to reply but someone spoke before her.
"Come now, Legolas. You should trust us a little more than that." Calinril's voice sent a chill down Lorelein's spine and Legolas held her protectively.
"Do you have anything more productive to do instead of irritating us?"
"Actually, I'm hear to tell you that Sir Morcam would like to speak to you….immediately."
"I don't know who you speak of, therefore it's most likely not of any importance to me. Whoever it is, tell them if they feel the need to speak with me so bad they can come find me. Now if you don't mind, go away. I'd like to sleep in peace."
"Whether you find it important or not, you don't have a choice. Morcam is Lorelein's father and they are both leaving before sunrise. So if you care to speak to the man before they depart, I suggest you do so now. Maybe he'll be kind enough to let you say goodbye."
"What?" Lorelein and Legolas asked in unison.
"It's true. The Lord and Lady have already spoken with him. He has proven himself to be her father and he has the right to take her."
There was a long pause before someone spoke.
"Legolas?" Lorelein sat up and faced her companion. Instead of replying, Legolas just looked at her attentively.
"You told me that I would have a choice as to which parent I would stay with. When did this change?"
"I don't remember that law ever changing. I think you and I need to speak to this "Morcam" and explain to him that he hasn't the right to force you to leave here." Turning to Calinril, he spoke. "Show me where this man is. I will speak to him."
Calinril motioned for them to follow, trying his best not to smile. He knew that Legolas had a slim chance of winning in this situation. For once, he was at the disadvantage. For since Morcam is family, she will have to join him no matter how much the Prince protests.
"He's waiting for you there." he pointed to a small tent and Legolas looked on in anger.
"Great. Come Lorelein, let's try and straighten this out." He grabbed her hand and stepped into the tent, determination in his eyes.
As he entered the tent he saw the Lord and Lady sitting beside another elf that looked very different. He was tall and stern. Exactly the way Lorelein had described her father's appearance in her dream. He looked down at her but no emotion could be seen in her eyes.
"Lorelein, my daughter." The dark haired elf rose and embraced her. She didn't show any sign of recognition or return the hug. She just stood there and looked at him like she would a stranger.
"She doesn't remember you. Don't expect much out of her." Legolas said, flatly.
"You must be Legolas. I hear you've been taking good care of her. I thank you." Morcam turned to face him, trying his best to smile and be polite. But the young prince saw right through him.
"You have no right to take her. There's a law against it and you can be charged with abduction."
"Are you saying that you would charge me for taking back my own daughter?" Morcam laughed at the comment.
"That's precisely what I said. She can only return with you if willing."
"Why would she not be willing? I'm her father."
Lorelein spoke, surprising everyone.
"But do I not have a choice? Can I not refuse and return to my mother instead if preferred?" her voice was soft but firm. Her tone questioning.
"By law, yes." Lord Celeborn spoke. "For you are technically at age. You must be at least two thousand years old to be able to make a decision yourself, so you've held that right for the past 124 years. But unless you do not already know which parent you have chosen to live with, you must go with your father."
"I have." She replied. Everyone, including Legolas, looked at her, astonished. Neither Lord or Lady knew she was told of the fact that she would have to decide and Legolas never knew she put more thought into it since the night he told her.
"Well then. What is your decision?" Lord Celeborn asked.
"I want to stay with my mother and the people of Mirkwood."
There was a long silence as the other elves exchanged glances. Everyone but her knew her mother was a servant for the king. Many looked at Legolas, who's eyes were large with surprise. Princess Lorelein had turned down royalty for the life of a servant. But why?
"What made you come to that decision?" Lady Galadriel asked.
"I do not know either of my parents. I figure I have a fifty-fifty chance on what kind of life I can follow. But if I live with my mother I would at least then know both Halin and Legolas. Not everyone will be complete strangers to me."
"So you're deciding to turn down royalty to live as Legolas' servant for the rest of your life just so you can be with him….and he's OKAY with this?"
"Hey now. I didn't know anything about her already making a decision. Don't look at me like I'm shallow." Legolas stated, ignoring the look Morcam gave him.
"Yes, I'm okay with that." Lorelein replied. She didn't care what she did for the rest of her life, as long as she had a friend along the way. And she knew that Legolas wouldn't treat her any differently, whether she was a princess or a servant.
"Very well then." Morcam replied with a sigh. Then walking up to Lorelein, he looked at her with disappointment and anger. "You've just made yourself a disgrace to our family, I hope you know. I tried my best to give you a comfortable life for over two thousand years and you thank me by humiliating me. Of all things, my daughter willingly places herself into slavery. What a story to tell. I hope you're happy, child."
Legolas, furious, stepped in front of Lorelein and glared at her father.
"If I'm not mistaken Morcam, she has made a decision. Now correct me if I'm wrong but in making this decision she has chosen to be one of my people and I refuse to let others treat my people with the disrespect you show her. So either back down or leave for I won't tolerate your actions toward one of my own."
"Do not pester me, son. I do not fear you nor your father. Lorelein is my daughter and I will treat her how I wish."
Legolas toyed with the knife on his belt. His patience was growing extremely thin and he did not like this elf at all. He was all too human to him.
"You will treat her how I say. I don't fear you either and wouldn't think twice about killing you. Now back down." His voice was strong and commanding. Anger burned in his eyes.
Morcam drew his sword from his sheath and Legolas pulled out his longest knife. Things were getting violent and Legolas was at the disadvantage. He was a skilled warrior but a knife wasn't must to the long, sharp blade of the Elven sword Morcam held confidently in his hands.
Before Galadriel or Celeborn could do or say anything, Morcam swung. The sound of the blades clashing together could be heard distinctly throughout the elven camp. Lorelein jumped out of the way just in time to avoid a misaimed swing. Legolas made his way backward, dodging and blocking Morcam's powerful jabs. Lorelein's father showed great experience in his technique and Legolas, though well taught, wouldn't be able to hold out against his opponent for too long.
Morcam thrusted his sword at Legolas. The prince sidestepped but stumbled. Losing his balance, he fell backward, tripping over a sleeping maiden.
Legolas was about to leap back up but Morcam put his foot on his chest, viciously kicking him back. Legolas struggled to breath as he felt the pressure on his stomach increase. He felt cold metal rest against his throat.
"A shame this is to kill such a young elf." Morcam said, his voice thick with sick humor. Legolas glared.
"You murder me and you will suffer my peoples wrath, dying a slow and painful death."
"True…but I find it worth it. Besides, it would be no less painful for you than it would be for me."
After hearing those words, Lorelein found herself experiencing deja vu. A memory came back to her like a vision. She could both see and hear it, almost like a dream.
"Why must we do this?" Lorelein's mom asked, in tears.
"Anabrethil, I will not let my daughter be a servant. It's insulting."
"Oh, and I suppose that you find me to be an insult to you also?"
"We are not speaking of you at this moment. We are discussing our daughter and what to do with her."
"What to do with her? Leave her here! I will take care of her and you can tell know one of her if you feel the need. You can just go off and find some other poor maiden to torture."
Lorelein could see her younger self hiding behind the stairwell. Her eyes were large and filled with both anger and tears.
"This will be no less painful for you than it will be for me." her father replied, attempting to sound sincere.
The memory ended and Lorelein opened her eyes. She saw in front of her Legolas lying on the ground. His eyes tightly shut and his fists clenched. Her father had him penned down and was forcing his own body weight against his torso.
Lorelein's eyes searched quickly for any sort of weapon. She saw Lord Celeborn standing behind her, calling guards to come help. She ran over and snatched his sword out of it's sheath. Celeborn jerked his head toward her and she held it defensively. Walking stealthily back behind Morcam, she positioned herself for attack.
"Let him be." she ordered to her father. Morcam turned around and laughed at the sight.
"Oh now this is just too humorous. Lorelein, you're being foolish."
"Lorelein, put the sword down." Legolas commanded for he feared she would get herself killed.
"Oh, what? You expect me to sit back like some brainless female and watch you get yourself killed? That doesn't sound productive enough for me, Legolas. Sorry to break it to you, but watching you getting yourself decapitated is not a favored past time of mine."
"Listen to the boy. A lady has no place on the battlefield."
"Really? I beg to differ." she replied, looking at her borrowed blade and giving it a few practice swings to the side. "I don't think you see me as I really am, 'father'. For I'm very different compared to the little elf you make me out to be."
"Lorelein, please don't force me to hurt you." Morcam spoke somewhat sincerely.
"Oh trust me. I would hurt you long before you would hurt me." Lorelein replied.
"Lorie, please. Just set the sword down." Legolas begged, his eyes pleading. He spoke just barely above a whisper for he did not want to risk his throat grazing the blade above him. She just slowly shook her head.
"Fine then. It seems you've left me no choice." Morcam raised his sword and removed his leg from Legolas' chest. But not before giving him a good thrust with his heal. Legolas coughed and keeled to the side.
He took a step toward Lorelein and she raised her sword. There was silence and all who were awake and nearby watched anxiously at the two elves but Lorelein's full attention was on the man standing in front of her. Her eyes met his, and she felt as if she was looking in a mirror. His eyes were similar to her own except for the hard look in them. While she was filled with determination and uncertainty, her father seemed almost empty, containing only an insatiable greed. He would never love or care for anyone but himself, bringing pain to others in his way.
Suddenly, a wave of courage washed over her and she swung at him with full force. Surprised he ducked before returning the attack. They continued to fight and things seemed to once more take a downward slide as Lorelein seemed to fall defensively.
Morcam forced the sword from Lorelein's hand. He proceeded toward her, speaking as he herded her backward.
"I'll give you one more chance to stop this nonsense. To continue your battle would be folly and I would prefer not to put up with the guilt of killing my own flesh and blood."
"You mean to say a beast like you feels guilt?" she retorted.
"If I were you, I wouldn't test me."
"Well you aren't me. And I could care less what you thought."
"Disrespecting me is not your wisest move."
"And killing her wouldn't be yours." A voice spoke. Morcam could not see him but felt a blade play across his own neck.
"You don't have the heart to kill me, Legolas."
"I wouldn't be so sure about that."
"Oh, but I am."
"Drop your weapon."
"Very well." Morcam threw the weapon, nearly hitting Lorelein. He was about to break free but Legolas reacted.
"For the sake of your life, you better tell me that wasn't intentional." he forced Morcam to the ground. His knife was placed firmly against the elf's throat.
"I would but that would be a lie."
Legolas, furious, raised the knife and began to strike but two hands prevented his attack.
"Someone grab that wretch. I can't hold this boy for too long." A familiar voice called out to others behind him. It was Halin. He dragged Legolas off of Morcam and tried his best to hold him back. Several guards grabbed Lorelein's father while other's helped Halin. Lorelein ran to his side.
"Legolas, he's not here anymore. You can calm down." She said after a moment.
"That man deserves death."
"And he will most likely get what he deserves after this morning. Legolas, please, just calm down."
There was a silence between the two and Lorelein could see the fierceness in his eyes.
"Remember what Lady Galadriel said? Don't lower yourself to their standards. Better yet, remember what you said." Legolas looked at her questioningly and Lorelein smiled, lowering her voice in attempt to match his.
"People are going to be cruel, you just saw that. That's why you need to stick to the people who are your friends."
Legolas tried to keep a straight face but a smile broke through his anger.
"Stay with those you trust." He added, finishing the quote.
"Exactly." She smiled back. Then standing up she held out her hand and helped Legolas from the ground. Morcam had stirred up some major issues for the both of them and there was no way of avoiding that fact. But, if they worked together, they both had a chance to overcome whatever would be thrown their way and maybe…just maybe…form a bond that they never thought was possible.
Note-I know the ending to this chapter is pretty crappy but I couldn't find a way to end it. Anyway, this "bond" might not be exactly what you're expecting. I don't write predictable romances very often so don't assume they're going to fall in love right after this chapter. If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in reviews. I will answer them on the "Nice Chunk-a Authors note" page.
"Hey. Get up." A deep voice spoke roughly. Calinril turned and looked up, prepared to scold whoever had rudely disrupted his sleep.
"Who are you?" he replied with an annoyed tone.
Calinril did not recognize the elf standing over him. He had dark brown hair and grey eyes. He didn't look quite as fair as most elves but authority shown clearly in his voice. His attire was that of Elrond's royalty and it was obvious that he was of his blood also. Rising quickly, Calinril apologized many times.
"Please forgive me, sir. For I did not know of your ranking. Is there any way that I may help you? Have you come with Lord Elrond?"
The Rivendell elf just rolled his eyes and spoke.
"No, I came myself. I have been told that you have a certain elf in your company that I'm particularly interested in seeing. Lord Elrond has told me of news about a female warrior who has been returned and I suspect her to be my daughter."
A gleam of mischief and revenge appeared in Calinril's eyes as a smile crept across his face. Legolas wouldn't be too fond of this.
"The one you speak of. Does her name happen to be Lorelein?"
"Yes, it does. Now is she with you or not?" the elf's tone seemed impatient.
"That she is. Follow me and I will show you to her." Calinril answered, ignoring the fact that the elf was blatantly disrespectful to him, and lead the way silently to the tree where Legolas and Lorelein laid sleeping. Stepping close to the pair, he pointed to the young female.
"That looks like my Lorelein, yes. But who is that?"
"That's Legolas. He seems to have taken quite a liking to her Sir….what is your name again? I don't think you've told me."
"My name Morcam Elenhith. Now why is this fool near my daughter? Who is his father? For I do not approve of his close contact with Lorelein."
"Master Morcam, that is Prince Legolas of Mirkwood. His father is King Thranduil. Are you sure you would want to confront him with the matter? For I don't believe he would take you insulting his son kindly." Calinril replied, for even though he wasn't fond of Legolas, he feared Thranduil.
"That is Thranduil's son?" Morcam asked, his opinion of Legolas quickly changing. For he was full of more greed than any man. He did not care for anyone but himself and could be considered a disgrace to the race of Elves. Though he wasn't always this way, something long ago changed him and he gradually became weak and selfish. Some said that his soul had faded away and all that was left was a greedy heart searching only to please himself.
"That he is."
"Then that was my mistake. Tell me when he wakes for I'm eager to meet him. His family seems worthy enough for my daughter."
Calinril agreed before escorting Morcam to meet the Lord and Lady.
It wasn't long after Morcam's appearance that Lorelein awoke. She didn't need to open her eyes to know Legolas was beside her. She could feel him next to her, breathing softly. His hand held her gently but protectively against his torso and she knew that he had made sure no one would bother her throughout the night.
By now she trusted Legolas with her life and didn't doubt anything he said. She had decided, when the time came, to return with her mother to his people. At least then she would know he was there to support her if needed. Plus, she had a strange feeling that it was her mother who would want to take her in more than her father. Not to mention the disturbing dream that she had the night before.
"The sun hasn't even shown herself and yet you're awake. Any particular reason?" Legolas said, his voice soft and husky showing that he had just woken up.
"I don't think." She replied, turning her head to look at him.
"Then do you mind going back to sleep? I'm still tired and I don't want you up and wandering around while most are still asleep. Ever since we left Lothlorien I have felt as if a something dark was lingering nearby and that feeling has only gotten stronger overnight."
Lorelein was about to reply but someone spoke before her.
"Come now, Legolas. You should trust us a little more than that." Calinril's voice sent a chill down Lorelein's spine and Legolas held her protectively.
"Do you have anything more productive to do instead of irritating us?"
"Actually, I'm hear to tell you that Sir Morcam would like to speak to you….immediately."
"I don't know who you speak of, therefore it's most likely not of any importance to me. Whoever it is, tell them if they feel the need to speak with me so bad they can come find me. Now if you don't mind, go away. I'd like to sleep in peace."
"Whether you find it important or not, you don't have a choice. Morcam is Lorelein's father and they are both leaving before sunrise. So if you care to speak to the man before they depart, I suggest you do so now. Maybe he'll be kind enough to let you say goodbye."
"What?" Lorelein and Legolas asked in unison.
"It's true. The Lord and Lady have already spoken with him. He has proven himself to be her father and he has the right to take her."
There was a long pause before someone spoke.
"Legolas?" Lorelein sat up and faced her companion. Instead of replying, Legolas just looked at her attentively.
"You told me that I would have a choice as to which parent I would stay with. When did this change?"
"I don't remember that law ever changing. I think you and I need to speak to this "Morcam" and explain to him that he hasn't the right to force you to leave here." Turning to Calinril, he spoke. "Show me where this man is. I will speak to him."
Calinril motioned for them to follow, trying his best not to smile. He knew that Legolas had a slim chance of winning in this situation. For once, he was at the disadvantage. For since Morcam is family, she will have to join him no matter how much the Prince protests.
"He's waiting for you there." he pointed to a small tent and Legolas looked on in anger.
"Great. Come Lorelein, let's try and straighten this out." He grabbed her hand and stepped into the tent, determination in his eyes.
As he entered the tent he saw the Lord and Lady sitting beside another elf that looked very different. He was tall and stern. Exactly the way Lorelein had described her father's appearance in her dream. He looked down at her but no emotion could be seen in her eyes.
"Lorelein, my daughter." The dark haired elf rose and embraced her. She didn't show any sign of recognition or return the hug. She just stood there and looked at him like she would a stranger.
"She doesn't remember you. Don't expect much out of her." Legolas said, flatly.
"You must be Legolas. I hear you've been taking good care of her. I thank you." Morcam turned to face him, trying his best to smile and be polite. But the young prince saw right through him.
"You have no right to take her. There's a law against it and you can be charged with abduction."
"Are you saying that you would charge me for taking back my own daughter?" Morcam laughed at the comment.
"That's precisely what I said. She can only return with you if willing."
"Why would she not be willing? I'm her father."
Lorelein spoke, surprising everyone.
"But do I not have a choice? Can I not refuse and return to my mother instead if preferred?" her voice was soft but firm. Her tone questioning.
"By law, yes." Lord Celeborn spoke. "For you are technically at age. You must be at least two thousand years old to be able to make a decision yourself, so you've held that right for the past 124 years. But unless you do not already know which parent you have chosen to live with, you must go with your father."
"I have." She replied. Everyone, including Legolas, looked at her, astonished. Neither Lord or Lady knew she was told of the fact that she would have to decide and Legolas never knew she put more thought into it since the night he told her.
"Well then. What is your decision?" Lord Celeborn asked.
"I want to stay with my mother and the people of Mirkwood."
There was a long silence as the other elves exchanged glances. Everyone but her knew her mother was a servant for the king. Many looked at Legolas, who's eyes were large with surprise. Princess Lorelein had turned down royalty for the life of a servant. But why?
"What made you come to that decision?" Lady Galadriel asked.
"I do not know either of my parents. I figure I have a fifty-fifty chance on what kind of life I can follow. But if I live with my mother I would at least then know both Halin and Legolas. Not everyone will be complete strangers to me."
"So you're deciding to turn down royalty to live as Legolas' servant for the rest of your life just so you can be with him….and he's OKAY with this?"
"Hey now. I didn't know anything about her already making a decision. Don't look at me like I'm shallow." Legolas stated, ignoring the look Morcam gave him.
"Yes, I'm okay with that." Lorelein replied. She didn't care what she did for the rest of her life, as long as she had a friend along the way. And she knew that Legolas wouldn't treat her any differently, whether she was a princess or a servant.
"Very well then." Morcam replied with a sigh. Then walking up to Lorelein, he looked at her with disappointment and anger. "You've just made yourself a disgrace to our family, I hope you know. I tried my best to give you a comfortable life for over two thousand years and you thank me by humiliating me. Of all things, my daughter willingly places herself into slavery. What a story to tell. I hope you're happy, child."
Legolas, furious, stepped in front of Lorelein and glared at her father.
"If I'm not mistaken Morcam, she has made a decision. Now correct me if I'm wrong but in making this decision she has chosen to be one of my people and I refuse to let others treat my people with the disrespect you show her. So either back down or leave for I won't tolerate your actions toward one of my own."
"Do not pester me, son. I do not fear you nor your father. Lorelein is my daughter and I will treat her how I wish."
Legolas toyed with the knife on his belt. His patience was growing extremely thin and he did not like this elf at all. He was all too human to him.
"You will treat her how I say. I don't fear you either and wouldn't think twice about killing you. Now back down." His voice was strong and commanding. Anger burned in his eyes.
Morcam drew his sword from his sheath and Legolas pulled out his longest knife. Things were getting violent and Legolas was at the disadvantage. He was a skilled warrior but a knife wasn't must to the long, sharp blade of the Elven sword Morcam held confidently in his hands.
Before Galadriel or Celeborn could do or say anything, Morcam swung. The sound of the blades clashing together could be heard distinctly throughout the elven camp. Lorelein jumped out of the way just in time to avoid a misaimed swing. Legolas made his way backward, dodging and blocking Morcam's powerful jabs. Lorelein's father showed great experience in his technique and Legolas, though well taught, wouldn't be able to hold out against his opponent for too long.
Morcam thrusted his sword at Legolas. The prince sidestepped but stumbled. Losing his balance, he fell backward, tripping over a sleeping maiden.
Legolas was about to leap back up but Morcam put his foot on his chest, viciously kicking him back. Legolas struggled to breath as he felt the pressure on his stomach increase. He felt cold metal rest against his throat.
"A shame this is to kill such a young elf." Morcam said, his voice thick with sick humor. Legolas glared.
"You murder me and you will suffer my peoples wrath, dying a slow and painful death."
"True…but I find it worth it. Besides, it would be no less painful for you than it would be for me."
After hearing those words, Lorelein found herself experiencing deja vu. A memory came back to her like a vision. She could both see and hear it, almost like a dream.
"Why must we do this?" Lorelein's mom asked, in tears.
"Anabrethil, I will not let my daughter be a servant. It's insulting."
"Oh, and I suppose that you find me to be an insult to you also?"
"We are not speaking of you at this moment. We are discussing our daughter and what to do with her."
"What to do with her? Leave her here! I will take care of her and you can tell know one of her if you feel the need. You can just go off and find some other poor maiden to torture."
Lorelein could see her younger self hiding behind the stairwell. Her eyes were large and filled with both anger and tears.
"This will be no less painful for you than it will be for me." her father replied, attempting to sound sincere.
The memory ended and Lorelein opened her eyes. She saw in front of her Legolas lying on the ground. His eyes tightly shut and his fists clenched. Her father had him penned down and was forcing his own body weight against his torso.
Lorelein's eyes searched quickly for any sort of weapon. She saw Lord Celeborn standing behind her, calling guards to come help. She ran over and snatched his sword out of it's sheath. Celeborn jerked his head toward her and she held it defensively. Walking stealthily back behind Morcam, she positioned herself for attack.
"Let him be." she ordered to her father. Morcam turned around and laughed at the sight.
"Oh now this is just too humorous. Lorelein, you're being foolish."
"Lorelein, put the sword down." Legolas commanded for he feared she would get herself killed.
"Oh, what? You expect me to sit back like some brainless female and watch you get yourself killed? That doesn't sound productive enough for me, Legolas. Sorry to break it to you, but watching you getting yourself decapitated is not a favored past time of mine."
"Listen to the boy. A lady has no place on the battlefield."
"Really? I beg to differ." she replied, looking at her borrowed blade and giving it a few practice swings to the side. "I don't think you see me as I really am, 'father'. For I'm very different compared to the little elf you make me out to be."
"Lorelein, please don't force me to hurt you." Morcam spoke somewhat sincerely.
"Oh trust me. I would hurt you long before you would hurt me." Lorelein replied.
"Lorie, please. Just set the sword down." Legolas begged, his eyes pleading. He spoke just barely above a whisper for he did not want to risk his throat grazing the blade above him. She just slowly shook her head.
"Fine then. It seems you've left me no choice." Morcam raised his sword and removed his leg from Legolas' chest. But not before giving him a good thrust with his heal. Legolas coughed and keeled to the side.
He took a step toward Lorelein and she raised her sword. There was silence and all who were awake and nearby watched anxiously at the two elves but Lorelein's full attention was on the man standing in front of her. Her eyes met his, and she felt as if she was looking in a mirror. His eyes were similar to her own except for the hard look in them. While she was filled with determination and uncertainty, her father seemed almost empty, containing only an insatiable greed. He would never love or care for anyone but himself, bringing pain to others in his way.
Suddenly, a wave of courage washed over her and she swung at him with full force. Surprised he ducked before returning the attack. They continued to fight and things seemed to once more take a downward slide as Lorelein seemed to fall defensively.
Morcam forced the sword from Lorelein's hand. He proceeded toward her, speaking as he herded her backward.
"I'll give you one more chance to stop this nonsense. To continue your battle would be folly and I would prefer not to put up with the guilt of killing my own flesh and blood."
"You mean to say a beast like you feels guilt?" she retorted.
"If I were you, I wouldn't test me."
"Well you aren't me. And I could care less what you thought."
"Disrespecting me is not your wisest move."
"And killing her wouldn't be yours." A voice spoke. Morcam could not see him but felt a blade play across his own neck.
"You don't have the heart to kill me, Legolas."
"I wouldn't be so sure about that."
"Oh, but I am."
"Drop your weapon."
"Very well." Morcam threw the weapon, nearly hitting Lorelein. He was about to break free but Legolas reacted.
"For the sake of your life, you better tell me that wasn't intentional." he forced Morcam to the ground. His knife was placed firmly against the elf's throat.
"I would but that would be a lie."
Legolas, furious, raised the knife and began to strike but two hands prevented his attack.
"Someone grab that wretch. I can't hold this boy for too long." A familiar voice called out to others behind him. It was Halin. He dragged Legolas off of Morcam and tried his best to hold him back. Several guards grabbed Lorelein's father while other's helped Halin. Lorelein ran to his side.
"Legolas, he's not here anymore. You can calm down." She said after a moment.
"That man deserves death."
"And he will most likely get what he deserves after this morning. Legolas, please, just calm down."
There was a silence between the two and Lorelein could see the fierceness in his eyes.
"Remember what Lady Galadriel said? Don't lower yourself to their standards. Better yet, remember what you said." Legolas looked at her questioningly and Lorelein smiled, lowering her voice in attempt to match his.
"People are going to be cruel, you just saw that. That's why you need to stick to the people who are your friends."
Legolas tried to keep a straight face but a smile broke through his anger.
"Stay with those you trust." He added, finishing the quote.
"Exactly." She smiled back. Then standing up she held out her hand and helped Legolas from the ground. Morcam had stirred up some major issues for the both of them and there was no way of avoiding that fact. But, if they worked together, they both had a chance to overcome whatever would be thrown their way and maybe…just maybe…form a bond that they never thought was possible.
Note-I know the ending to this chapter is pretty crappy but I couldn't find a way to end it. Anyway, this "bond" might not be exactly what you're expecting. I don't write predictable romances very often so don't assume they're going to fall in love right after this chapter. If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in reviews. I will answer them on the "Nice Chunk-a Authors note" page.