A/N: J.C. - Me?! Evil?! Never! Mwahaha!!!



The trees rustled as a fair blonde head popped out of the foliage, surveying the area. Blue eyes scanned unfamiliar terrain. This forest was unlike any other he'd ever seen. It was lush, yet it felt contained somehow, as if the trees were prisoners. Off in the distance he saw a large structure. It appeared to be a house of some sort, though he did not even want to guess what would live in a house so large. He turned. He could hear the gentle sounds of crashing waves, but couldn't see the ocean. 'Oh well, I'm probably better off not knowing.' He could hear his companions shifting about impatiently on the ground. He gave a small smile before dropping to the ground with natural grace.

"It seems we are no longer where we were," he said, startling his companions who had not heard his approach, "Nor do I know of this land." "Aye, it is strange," replied his stout, bearded companion. "It is rare that we are ever anywhere you haven't been Legolas. Are you sure you have not just forgotten?" asked a tall man to his left. Legolas sighed. "Aragorn, I know it amuses you to do so, but jesting about my memory in comparison to my age is ludicrous. I'm an elf! I do not forget such things." Aragorn smiled. "Though I admit I enjoy such a jest, this time I assure you, I am serious." "What do we do now?" asked Merry. Legolas shrugged elegantly. "I saw a rather large house upon a cliffside in the distance," Legolas replied, "It should not take us long to reach it." "Know you the master of this realm?" "Boromir, if I knew, we would not be in this situation. As it is, I am unable to tell what sort of creature inhabits this home, for it is rather unusual at best." "Either way we must be going," Gandulf said, getting up, "It is not wise to dally long in strange lands." Though no one said so, they all agreed.

Gathering themselves, they headed off in the direction of the strange house. They could not be sure what they would face, but they knew the ring must be kept safe at all costs. And it seemed, to their dismay, the quest had just gotten harder.




A/N: Okay people, just a side note here. I've got a question I'd like to ask. How many of you would like to see Rogue kiss someone else?