*~*As he reached the shore of the black lake he saw there were boats on the
water, boats as black as the ripples they threw out, and at their sterns
stood men with poles. He listened to the sound of the ripples as they
lapped against the shore; and they sounded like no water he had ever heard
before. ~ Robin McKinley "The Twelve Dancing Princesses"*~*
THE FAERIE GOBLET
Chapter 19 ~ "The Land of Faerie"
Legolas picked himself up off of the dirt where he had landed. He cautiously stood up and stretched out a hand. He could see nothing. The only light was the faint shimmer from his own body, but that was not enough to illuminate the path before him.
His outstretched fingers encountered an earthen wall. Though the wall felt dry, the air around him carried a damp and decayed smell that made his hackles rise. He was deep underground, just as he'd expected, but that did not mean he liked it.
Turning sideways to the wall, he stretched out his fingers on the other side and barked his knuckles against another wall.
*So, it is a very narrow tunnel.* That too was just as he'd expected. Turning once again, he oriented himself so that his toes were pointed downhill and then he cautiously proceeded forward. His ears strained to hear any sound, but were met only by the quiet fall of his own feet.
Because of the absolute hush around him, he should have been able to hear Alede's song quite clearly. But instead it was muted and scattered, almost as if it flowed faster than his own.
I suppose that is not surprising, he thought after a moment considering where he was.
He was dismayed though to realize that her first emotion had been complete and utter panic at his disappearance. He'd thought that she'd be angry with his impulsive decision. He certainly hadn't expected the raw hysteria that he felt coming from her now. Alede was usually so sensible.
Except when it comes to me, he thought with chagrin.
*Which proves how much we still have to learn about each other.*
But he knew enough of her to know that his decision the night before had been the correct one for both of them.
*Yet we know more of each other than some royal couples do.*
There had been a time in his youth when his father had sought an alliance with a kingdom of Elves to the North. Thranduil had mentioned a betrothal between Legolas and the Northern Prince's daughter. Legolas had been horrified, though the arrangement was nothing unusual.
Never the less, the young prince of Mirkwood had been hugely relieved when the entire Northern kingdom had instead passed to the Grey Havens. When their journey had brought them through Mirkwood, Legolas had fled into the solace of the trees and missed out on the three days of feasting. Facing his father's wrath once he finally came home had been worth avoiding the princess who might have been his bride.
And I will face my father's wrath again, he thought with some mirth. But this time the prospect held no fear, for the prize was well worth it.
*And Father respects her more than he will admit.*
His mind snapped back to the present as he felt Alede very abruptly come out of her hysteria. Legolas tried to send her reassuring thoughts but wasn't sure how much of it she would understand.
It had been imperative that he leave without her. This was not a place that he wanted the young wizardess to come to. She did not know the rules and he doubted that her logic and sensibility would help her much in this world. Legolas did not know either what condition her father might be in once he found him and did not wish to distress her.
*This could be very ugly.*
Bringing Gimli had been out of the question. A visit to this place would be fatal to the Dwarf, hence also the need for Legolas' hurry. He would not endanger Gimli! And talking the Dwarf out of coming with him had been out of the question. He was well acquainted with Gimli's stubborn streak.
Of course, then there was Alede's willfulness as well . . .
*I am surrounded by stubborn people!*
He came out of his musings when the floor disappeared out from under him. Quick Elvin reflexes caught him though and Legolas landed on the steps below. The stairs were carved of stone by the sound his boots made upon them and Legolas cautiously climbed downward.
As he went, he began to see light down below. It was faint and of an unhealthy greenish tinge. A shiver of disgust ran up his spine. The ancient legends of these creatures were full of treachery and imprisonment, but he had little choice but to go on. He'd committed himself to finding Alede's father. It was the least he could do after all that she had suffered because of him. And very likely, once he'd found Radagast, he'd find the rest of their missing people.
Squaring his shoulders, he continued down the stairway.
How long he wound downwards he did not know. Days might have passed while he was on that stair. Finally his steps led him to level ground and he passed through immense caverns. Greenish light emanated from the ceiling far above his head. It would not have been bright enough to light his way if his feet did not now travel a white sandy path amidst the darkness.
Monstrous growths, like mushrooms turned to trees, lined the path, occasionally glowing with a sickly white light of their own. They gave off a putrid odor like rotten vegetation and moisture dripped from their rank branches. Legolas was careful not to linger beneath them for long.
Eventually, he came to a lake, black as the darkest nightmare. There was light on the other side and it spilled across the oily surface like a yellow stain.
Legolas walked all up and down the shore but could see no way of crossing the foul water. He did not even consider swimming it.
Movement cut across the ray of light upon the water and Legolas' keen eyes discerned a boat coming toward him in the gloom. There was no oarsman, though in truth he had expected none. Enchantment lapped against the gunnels of the boat, just as it dripped from the sickly trees. Once it bumped against the gravel shore, Legolas stepped aboard and the boat slipped back out into the water unaided.
Obviously his visit was both known and expected. The knowledge made him uneasy, but there was little he could do about it. Elvin stealth would not avail him here.
As he drew closer to the far shore, Legolas began to hear music. It was a wild lively tune, the type to dance with a maiden beneath the stars and throw aside all inhibitions. The sound of flutes and pipes sang such a merry chorus that Legolas' heart ached with yearning, even though he was fully aware of its danger.
Once ashore, Legolas followed the music up a small rise and when he reached its summit he was nearly blinded by the white light of the huge cavern he now found himself in.
The very walls seemed to glow with an ethereal light and immense towering trees circled a clearing. The trees had trunks as white as bone and their leaves were of beaten copper. Huge gems hung from the branches like glittering fruit and Legolas had only a moment to consider how such a sight would awe Gimli.
And then suddenly he was surrounded by people. But these were people like none the Elf had seen in Middle Earth.
Faeries.
They whirled around him, their waif like forms as gauzy as the garments they wore. Women of enticing and exotic beauty twirled around him and clutched at his arms. Their faces were ethereal, their chins pointed and their cheeks blushed with excitement. But their eyes were dead, revealing the soulessness within. Wizened little old men, their skin as gnarled as tree bark, cackled and capered about him.
Legolas did not resist them or try to draw away. There was no resistance to this world of enchantment. If he were to get his people out, it would depend upon cunning.
Legolas was born along with the troop of dancers into the clearing, where long gleaming tables had been set up. A glittering feast heaped the tables and about it sat hundreds of guests. Legolas recognized many of them, their long dark hair proclaiming them the lost Elves of Rivendell. They looked dull and shabby compared to the richly gowned faeries who cavorted beside him. The Elves gazed at him with overly bright eyes and talked with great animation to their faerie hosts. The women of Rivendell looked on with dull gazes, strangely mute next to their male counterparts.
Legolas turned his head, thinking that he'd caught site of a grizzled beard amongst the throng that might belong to a wizard, but he was pulled and prodded up a dais and suddenly found himself confronting a familiar face.
"Who are you that intrudes upon the Queens' festival?"
It was Elrohir.
But it was not Elrohir, Legolas realized. The prince of Imladris's face was slack and his eyes shown dully. There was no hint of recognition on his features. With a groan, Legolas realized that his old friend was fully under control of an enchantment.
Looking past Elrohir, Legolas was caught by a riveting blue gaze. Never had he seen eyes of so cold a hue.
The Faerie Queen rose with great dignity from her throne, one delicate hand pushing Elrohir out of the way.
"What brings you to my halls, fair Stranger?" Her voice was the dulcet tones of a lover and sent shivers of desire across Legolas' skin. Her face was the culmination of every Elf's wants and fantasies. To say that she was beautiful was to call the sun a mere light. Legolas had no doubt she could bend the strongest of hearts to her will.
*But not mine! For I know love of the purest form and will not be swayed by its lustful imitation.*
"I come seeking my friends," Legolas said levelly, not allowing himself to show how she affected him. "They are imprisoned here and I ask for their release."
"Imprisoned?" The Faerie Queen laughed, a sound like the tinkling of bells. "There are none imprisoned here." She waved an arm magnanimously around the clearing, taking in all of the hapless Elves. "These good folk are my guests. Will you not sit and join our feast?" she coaxed.
"Nay, my lady," Legolas replied, remembering the rules of etiquette for this land. He dared not make the Queen too angry or none of them would ever leave. And he knew that the food and drink of Faerie was full of enchantment. He would partake of none of it. "I thank you for your invitation, but I must decline and these good people as well. They are needed elsewhere."
"But I insist," the Faerie Queen said with silken tones. She clutched at Legolas' arm and stroked it slowly. The Elf felt himself sinking into a chair by her side without meaning to.
"Tell me your name, fair stranger."
Almost, Legolas spoke his name, but he caught himself in time. A name could be used to bind and he must not utter it. To do so might imprison him here for all eternity.
"LEGOLAS!"
Legolas turned as a haggard voice called out his name. His eyes fell upon Cyrus the Blue struggling up to the dais with three Faerie maidens clinging to his arms.
"You old fool!" Radagast shouted, puffing into view behind his wizard friend. "I told you not to use anyone's name!"
Legolas leaped up and tried to go to the two old wizards. They both looked awful. Their skin was gray and sunken. Cyrus could barely walk, he appeared so weak and Radagast looked hardly better. Legolas realized that they had probably not eaten in the entire time that they had been imprisoned here. Their eyes were clear and carried no sign of enchantment. But they could die of starvation or thirst amidst this treacherous feast. Legolas knew he had to get the two old wizards out of there immediately. He could come back for the others later.
Elrohir suddenly blocked his path however. With a lightening move, Legolas ducked under his friend's arm and grabbed one of the lanterns hanging above the table. Smashing it down upon the dais, it caught the rich cushions on fire. Confusion erupted even as the flames did.
Legolas leaped down from the dais and grabbed the arms of the two old wizards and propelled them out the way he had come in.
Faerie Knights rushed at them, but Legolas overturned a table, leaping over the scattered benches as if they were mere sticks in his path. Yanking the wizards out of the ruin, he dragged them from the fray.
"It's no good!" Radagast panted in Legolas' ear. "They always capture us again. Cyrus and I have tried to escape many times."
"Did you look back?" Legolas shouted as they raced toward the lake, the two wizards puffing and staggering beside him.
"Look back?" Radagast repeated, obviously confused. "I suppose . . ."
"Never look back when escaping the land of Faerie," Legolas commanded. "No matter what happens, do not look back! It is one of the laws of this world!"
They gained time on the lake, for there was only one boat and once reaching the opposite shore, Legolas hacked the boat to pieces with his knife. He heard the Faerie Queen scream his name and almost looked back. But catching himself in time, he once again grabbed the arms of the wizards and propelled them forward.
"But what about the Elves?" Cyrus panted in uncharacteristic concern. "We cannot leave them behind!"
"I will come back for them. Strong magic will be needed to release all of our people," Legolas answered him as they began the long ascent up the stairs. "I need to get the two of you to safety, so that we may decide our next move."
"I agree with Legolas," Radagast wheezed. "The Elves are all enchanted and are more of a hindrance to us now than a help. Where is my daughter, Legolas?"
"She is in Elrond's house."
"Good, if anyone can defeat this Faerie Queen it will be her. This is an ancient form of Green Magic. Alede will know how . . ."
Radagast cried out as a tiny arrow struck his arm.
"They are coming!" the wizard shouted as he plucked the arrow from his sleeve.
"It is Faerie Shot," Legolas cried. "The bolts are not lethal but they can cause paralysis. We must fly!"
The struggled upward, the wizards finding new strength in their fear. The sound of pursuit was close behind them and twice one of the wizards stumbled on the steps as hands reached out to grab them. Finally Radagast was firmly caught and dragged down several steps.
"Do not look back!" Legolas shouted to Cyrus before he turned and leapt back down the steps.
"NO!" Radagast cried, seeing the Elf coming to his rescue. "You'll be captured too!"
But Legolas ignored him and drew his knives, slashing at the hands holding the wizard.
"FLY!" the Elf cried once Radagast was free. "FLY! Tell Alede, I . . . "
But then the Knights were upon him and he never finished the sentence.
Radagast heaved himself up the stairs, not daring to look back at the sounds of battle behind him. Cyrus caught his arm and together they struggled upward and upward, eventually stumbling, blinking out into the bright light of day. They took two steps and fell into the arms of Gimli the Dwarf.
~ ~ ~
"So this is how you repay my hospitality?" the Faerie Queen hissed as she walked all around Legolas' battered form. His clothing was torn and he was bruised and cut in innumerable places. Every part of his body ached.
The thirteen knights had overpowered him eventually and brought him back to the Queen's dais, shoving him so hard he had fallen to his knees. He stayed where he was, since even Legolas' great strength had been exhausted. They had battled on the stairs for hours. Escape had seemed probably several times, but each time they had dragged him back down again.
For now, he'd have to wait and then choose his time of escape very carefully.
"Rise," the Queen commanded when he did not answer her.
Legolas stubbornly refused and found himself hauled to his feet by Elrohir. He gave his former friend a furious look, but it was obvious that Elrohir was not conscious of it.
"Remove his bindings," the Queen said and rough hands cut the ropes that bound Legolas' wrists behind him. He slowly rubbed the circulation back into his hands as he watched the Faerie Queen circling him.
"You are very stubborn, aren't you, fair one?" She dragged fingers across Legolas' shoulders as she walked behind him. Her touch was as cold as ice. "Shall I make you a bargain?" she purred.
"What kind of bargain?" he asked suspiciously, trying to keep her in his sights, but she kept circling around him.
"I will allow you to go free, if . . ."
"If?"
"If . . ." she leaned in close and nipped at his ear lobe with sharp little teeth.
Legolas pulled away in disgust.
"If," she continued with a treacherous little laugh, "first you give me a kiss."
"A kiss?" Legolas asked, arching a brow. "As simple as that?"
"Yes, as simple as that."
"I don't believe you," he said, hostility coloring his tone.
"My, what a suspicious one you are," the Queen teased. "But I promise you that with one kiss, I'll allow you to leave."
"And the other Elves?"
The Queen laughed her tinkling little laugh. "I'm afraid they must remain for a while at least."
"No." Legolas folded his arms across his chest. "I will not leave without my people."
The Queen sighed and Legolas tried to ignore her beautiful pout.
"Very well," she said with apparent reluctance, "you will not leave without your people."
"And they will be released from their enchantment when you release me?" he asked suspiciously.
"Of course," and she glanced up at him unhappily.
Legolas didn't trust her for one moment. Her pout was nothing more than an act. But if he could gain their freedom even for a few moments, he was sure he could rally the Rivendell Elves and make an escape. They vastly outnumbered the Faeries and could counter any plan the Queen was concocting.
"Agreed," Legolas said and taking a step forward, he gave her a brief light kiss on the lips.
"There," the Queen said sweetly, "that was not so bad, was it?"
"My people?" Legolas prompted.
But the Queen only stared at him, a triumphant smile on her face.
Legolas froze. What had she done, he wondered. Had she tricked him?
Considering his next move, Legolas nervously bit his bottom lip and . . .
Tasted Faerie wine.
*She did trick me!* his mind screamed. *There was wine on her mouth!* But even as he tried to speak, Faerie Enchantment swirled around him, seizing his soul in its misty clutches. Legolas felt himself drowning in the pleasant sensation of it. His body and his consciousness became fully entrapped and his will disappeared. His inner struggles ceased as the magic took complete hold of him. He found his limbs no longer obeyed him, instead answering to someone else.
Only a tiny portion of himself scuttled to the back of his brain, cringing in the corner. His eyes looked down into icy blue orbs and his outer self rejoiced in the Queen's presence. But that tiny little portion that was still Legolas, tried to look away in terror.
"You may leave now, if you wish . . . Legolas," the Queen purred and the enchantment locked around him permanently at the mention of his name. It gibbered gleefully in his ears as Legolas desperately sought a means out of the prison of his own mind.
"Nay, my Lady," Legolas heard himself answering. "Who would wish to leave your side? For you are the fairest of all beings."
*NO! You are foul as Sauron!*
Horrified, Legolas found himself going down to one knee.
*NO!*
"My Lady, allow me and all my kin to serve you."
*I do not wish to serve you! Set me free!*
"Of course," she answered with a sweet laugh of joy, "I accept your service. Come and you and I will become better acquainted . . ."
*NEVER!*
The Queen drew a cold finger along his jaw and Legolas felt himself rising to follow her.
*NO, I will not go with you!*
But his feet eagerly followed the Queen as she led him to a sumptuous chamber. Draperies of silk flowed from the ceiling, creating a veritable maze of colors and soft fabric. Legolas reached out a hand to take hers, that he might not get lost in this silken chaos. She led him to a huge round bed in the middle of the chamber and the part of Legolas that was still himself, was surprised to see Elrohir already reclined upon it. But his outer self accepted the sight without pause.
"You two will be my consorts," the Queen said, drawing Legolas down upon the bed. "Come, my fair one and let us see if you can please me."
*NO! I WILL NEVER PLEASE YOU!*
But his body did not listen to the furious and fearful cries of his mind.
*AI! NO . . .! ALEDE . . .!*
~ ~ ~
A/N: This just seems to be getting worse! Will Gimli and Alede be able to stop their quarreling long enough to do something about poor Legolas? And even if they do, what kind of magic is strong enough to counter that of the Faerie Queen? Find out in chapter 20, coming soon! ;)
AUTHOR'S NOTE AND HUGE APOLOGY:
1- I really screwed up with the yellow rose business. I used only one book as my reference and therefore had only one meaning. *sigh* Bad research on my part. Sorry!
Anyway . . . All of you got part of it right. Only Bchan and Thecla guessed, "Infidelity" which is the meaning that I was going for. But all the others are correct. I guess there is a meaning that fits each character actually. Legolas, albeit unwillingly, is the one to commit 'infidelity'. Gimli may be forced to form a 'friendship' with Alede in order to get Legolas back. And Alede . . . well, you don't need me to tell you that Alede will be filled with jealously once she finds out what happened between the Queen and our precious Elf!
2- I see that some of you are well versed in the realm of Faerie. I'll have to stay on my toes to keep ahead of you! ;) Most of the places and situations described here are a compilation of over 14 books that I read on the legends of Faerie. The tales were of German, Scottish, Finish and British origin. I did not include many Irish tales, since the Irish fairies tended to be more benevolent than these ones.
3- Also, "Faerie Shot" was really called "Elf Shot", since in the original tales; an "Elf" was usually just a 'male' fairy. Tolkien was the first to differentiate Elves as a separate species from fairies. Interestingly, elf shot was considered responsible for sudden paralysis. A person afflicted with elf shot was considered to be "stroked". Our modern medical term of "stroke" has its origins in 12th century folklore.
4- And this is the most IMPORTANT. I see that I've neglected lately to tell all of you how much your reviews mean to me. You guys are terrific!!!! Your reviews make my day and inspire me to write more. I'm sorry that I haven't thanked you for a while, but please, please know that I always read them and always appreciate them. To those of you who are new to these stories, welcome and thank you so much for taking the time to read them. Take care everyone and happy reading! :D ~ Nebride
THE FAERIE GOBLET
Chapter 19 ~ "The Land of Faerie"
Legolas picked himself up off of the dirt where he had landed. He cautiously stood up and stretched out a hand. He could see nothing. The only light was the faint shimmer from his own body, but that was not enough to illuminate the path before him.
His outstretched fingers encountered an earthen wall. Though the wall felt dry, the air around him carried a damp and decayed smell that made his hackles rise. He was deep underground, just as he'd expected, but that did not mean he liked it.
Turning sideways to the wall, he stretched out his fingers on the other side and barked his knuckles against another wall.
*So, it is a very narrow tunnel.* That too was just as he'd expected. Turning once again, he oriented himself so that his toes were pointed downhill and then he cautiously proceeded forward. His ears strained to hear any sound, but were met only by the quiet fall of his own feet.
Because of the absolute hush around him, he should have been able to hear Alede's song quite clearly. But instead it was muted and scattered, almost as if it flowed faster than his own.
I suppose that is not surprising, he thought after a moment considering where he was.
He was dismayed though to realize that her first emotion had been complete and utter panic at his disappearance. He'd thought that she'd be angry with his impulsive decision. He certainly hadn't expected the raw hysteria that he felt coming from her now. Alede was usually so sensible.
Except when it comes to me, he thought with chagrin.
*Which proves how much we still have to learn about each other.*
But he knew enough of her to know that his decision the night before had been the correct one for both of them.
*Yet we know more of each other than some royal couples do.*
There had been a time in his youth when his father had sought an alliance with a kingdom of Elves to the North. Thranduil had mentioned a betrothal between Legolas and the Northern Prince's daughter. Legolas had been horrified, though the arrangement was nothing unusual.
Never the less, the young prince of Mirkwood had been hugely relieved when the entire Northern kingdom had instead passed to the Grey Havens. When their journey had brought them through Mirkwood, Legolas had fled into the solace of the trees and missed out on the three days of feasting. Facing his father's wrath once he finally came home had been worth avoiding the princess who might have been his bride.
And I will face my father's wrath again, he thought with some mirth. But this time the prospect held no fear, for the prize was well worth it.
*And Father respects her more than he will admit.*
His mind snapped back to the present as he felt Alede very abruptly come out of her hysteria. Legolas tried to send her reassuring thoughts but wasn't sure how much of it she would understand.
It had been imperative that he leave without her. This was not a place that he wanted the young wizardess to come to. She did not know the rules and he doubted that her logic and sensibility would help her much in this world. Legolas did not know either what condition her father might be in once he found him and did not wish to distress her.
*This could be very ugly.*
Bringing Gimli had been out of the question. A visit to this place would be fatal to the Dwarf, hence also the need for Legolas' hurry. He would not endanger Gimli! And talking the Dwarf out of coming with him had been out of the question. He was well acquainted with Gimli's stubborn streak.
Of course, then there was Alede's willfulness as well . . .
*I am surrounded by stubborn people!*
He came out of his musings when the floor disappeared out from under him. Quick Elvin reflexes caught him though and Legolas landed on the steps below. The stairs were carved of stone by the sound his boots made upon them and Legolas cautiously climbed downward.
As he went, he began to see light down below. It was faint and of an unhealthy greenish tinge. A shiver of disgust ran up his spine. The ancient legends of these creatures were full of treachery and imprisonment, but he had little choice but to go on. He'd committed himself to finding Alede's father. It was the least he could do after all that she had suffered because of him. And very likely, once he'd found Radagast, he'd find the rest of their missing people.
Squaring his shoulders, he continued down the stairway.
How long he wound downwards he did not know. Days might have passed while he was on that stair. Finally his steps led him to level ground and he passed through immense caverns. Greenish light emanated from the ceiling far above his head. It would not have been bright enough to light his way if his feet did not now travel a white sandy path amidst the darkness.
Monstrous growths, like mushrooms turned to trees, lined the path, occasionally glowing with a sickly white light of their own. They gave off a putrid odor like rotten vegetation and moisture dripped from their rank branches. Legolas was careful not to linger beneath them for long.
Eventually, he came to a lake, black as the darkest nightmare. There was light on the other side and it spilled across the oily surface like a yellow stain.
Legolas walked all up and down the shore but could see no way of crossing the foul water. He did not even consider swimming it.
Movement cut across the ray of light upon the water and Legolas' keen eyes discerned a boat coming toward him in the gloom. There was no oarsman, though in truth he had expected none. Enchantment lapped against the gunnels of the boat, just as it dripped from the sickly trees. Once it bumped against the gravel shore, Legolas stepped aboard and the boat slipped back out into the water unaided.
Obviously his visit was both known and expected. The knowledge made him uneasy, but there was little he could do about it. Elvin stealth would not avail him here.
As he drew closer to the far shore, Legolas began to hear music. It was a wild lively tune, the type to dance with a maiden beneath the stars and throw aside all inhibitions. The sound of flutes and pipes sang such a merry chorus that Legolas' heart ached with yearning, even though he was fully aware of its danger.
Once ashore, Legolas followed the music up a small rise and when he reached its summit he was nearly blinded by the white light of the huge cavern he now found himself in.
The very walls seemed to glow with an ethereal light and immense towering trees circled a clearing. The trees had trunks as white as bone and their leaves were of beaten copper. Huge gems hung from the branches like glittering fruit and Legolas had only a moment to consider how such a sight would awe Gimli.
And then suddenly he was surrounded by people. But these were people like none the Elf had seen in Middle Earth.
Faeries.
They whirled around him, their waif like forms as gauzy as the garments they wore. Women of enticing and exotic beauty twirled around him and clutched at his arms. Their faces were ethereal, their chins pointed and their cheeks blushed with excitement. But their eyes were dead, revealing the soulessness within. Wizened little old men, their skin as gnarled as tree bark, cackled and capered about him.
Legolas did not resist them or try to draw away. There was no resistance to this world of enchantment. If he were to get his people out, it would depend upon cunning.
Legolas was born along with the troop of dancers into the clearing, where long gleaming tables had been set up. A glittering feast heaped the tables and about it sat hundreds of guests. Legolas recognized many of them, their long dark hair proclaiming them the lost Elves of Rivendell. They looked dull and shabby compared to the richly gowned faeries who cavorted beside him. The Elves gazed at him with overly bright eyes and talked with great animation to their faerie hosts. The women of Rivendell looked on with dull gazes, strangely mute next to their male counterparts.
Legolas turned his head, thinking that he'd caught site of a grizzled beard amongst the throng that might belong to a wizard, but he was pulled and prodded up a dais and suddenly found himself confronting a familiar face.
"Who are you that intrudes upon the Queens' festival?"
It was Elrohir.
But it was not Elrohir, Legolas realized. The prince of Imladris's face was slack and his eyes shown dully. There was no hint of recognition on his features. With a groan, Legolas realized that his old friend was fully under control of an enchantment.
Looking past Elrohir, Legolas was caught by a riveting blue gaze. Never had he seen eyes of so cold a hue.
The Faerie Queen rose with great dignity from her throne, one delicate hand pushing Elrohir out of the way.
"What brings you to my halls, fair Stranger?" Her voice was the dulcet tones of a lover and sent shivers of desire across Legolas' skin. Her face was the culmination of every Elf's wants and fantasies. To say that she was beautiful was to call the sun a mere light. Legolas had no doubt she could bend the strongest of hearts to her will.
*But not mine! For I know love of the purest form and will not be swayed by its lustful imitation.*
"I come seeking my friends," Legolas said levelly, not allowing himself to show how she affected him. "They are imprisoned here and I ask for their release."
"Imprisoned?" The Faerie Queen laughed, a sound like the tinkling of bells. "There are none imprisoned here." She waved an arm magnanimously around the clearing, taking in all of the hapless Elves. "These good folk are my guests. Will you not sit and join our feast?" she coaxed.
"Nay, my lady," Legolas replied, remembering the rules of etiquette for this land. He dared not make the Queen too angry or none of them would ever leave. And he knew that the food and drink of Faerie was full of enchantment. He would partake of none of it. "I thank you for your invitation, but I must decline and these good people as well. They are needed elsewhere."
"But I insist," the Faerie Queen said with silken tones. She clutched at Legolas' arm and stroked it slowly. The Elf felt himself sinking into a chair by her side without meaning to.
"Tell me your name, fair stranger."
Almost, Legolas spoke his name, but he caught himself in time. A name could be used to bind and he must not utter it. To do so might imprison him here for all eternity.
"LEGOLAS!"
Legolas turned as a haggard voice called out his name. His eyes fell upon Cyrus the Blue struggling up to the dais with three Faerie maidens clinging to his arms.
"You old fool!" Radagast shouted, puffing into view behind his wizard friend. "I told you not to use anyone's name!"
Legolas leaped up and tried to go to the two old wizards. They both looked awful. Their skin was gray and sunken. Cyrus could barely walk, he appeared so weak and Radagast looked hardly better. Legolas realized that they had probably not eaten in the entire time that they had been imprisoned here. Their eyes were clear and carried no sign of enchantment. But they could die of starvation or thirst amidst this treacherous feast. Legolas knew he had to get the two old wizards out of there immediately. He could come back for the others later.
Elrohir suddenly blocked his path however. With a lightening move, Legolas ducked under his friend's arm and grabbed one of the lanterns hanging above the table. Smashing it down upon the dais, it caught the rich cushions on fire. Confusion erupted even as the flames did.
Legolas leaped down from the dais and grabbed the arms of the two old wizards and propelled them out the way he had come in.
Faerie Knights rushed at them, but Legolas overturned a table, leaping over the scattered benches as if they were mere sticks in his path. Yanking the wizards out of the ruin, he dragged them from the fray.
"It's no good!" Radagast panted in Legolas' ear. "They always capture us again. Cyrus and I have tried to escape many times."
"Did you look back?" Legolas shouted as they raced toward the lake, the two wizards puffing and staggering beside him.
"Look back?" Radagast repeated, obviously confused. "I suppose . . ."
"Never look back when escaping the land of Faerie," Legolas commanded. "No matter what happens, do not look back! It is one of the laws of this world!"
They gained time on the lake, for there was only one boat and once reaching the opposite shore, Legolas hacked the boat to pieces with his knife. He heard the Faerie Queen scream his name and almost looked back. But catching himself in time, he once again grabbed the arms of the wizards and propelled them forward.
"But what about the Elves?" Cyrus panted in uncharacteristic concern. "We cannot leave them behind!"
"I will come back for them. Strong magic will be needed to release all of our people," Legolas answered him as they began the long ascent up the stairs. "I need to get the two of you to safety, so that we may decide our next move."
"I agree with Legolas," Radagast wheezed. "The Elves are all enchanted and are more of a hindrance to us now than a help. Where is my daughter, Legolas?"
"She is in Elrond's house."
"Good, if anyone can defeat this Faerie Queen it will be her. This is an ancient form of Green Magic. Alede will know how . . ."
Radagast cried out as a tiny arrow struck his arm.
"They are coming!" the wizard shouted as he plucked the arrow from his sleeve.
"It is Faerie Shot," Legolas cried. "The bolts are not lethal but they can cause paralysis. We must fly!"
The struggled upward, the wizards finding new strength in their fear. The sound of pursuit was close behind them and twice one of the wizards stumbled on the steps as hands reached out to grab them. Finally Radagast was firmly caught and dragged down several steps.
"Do not look back!" Legolas shouted to Cyrus before he turned and leapt back down the steps.
"NO!" Radagast cried, seeing the Elf coming to his rescue. "You'll be captured too!"
But Legolas ignored him and drew his knives, slashing at the hands holding the wizard.
"FLY!" the Elf cried once Radagast was free. "FLY! Tell Alede, I . . . "
But then the Knights were upon him and he never finished the sentence.
Radagast heaved himself up the stairs, not daring to look back at the sounds of battle behind him. Cyrus caught his arm and together they struggled upward and upward, eventually stumbling, blinking out into the bright light of day. They took two steps and fell into the arms of Gimli the Dwarf.
~ ~ ~
"So this is how you repay my hospitality?" the Faerie Queen hissed as she walked all around Legolas' battered form. His clothing was torn and he was bruised and cut in innumerable places. Every part of his body ached.
The thirteen knights had overpowered him eventually and brought him back to the Queen's dais, shoving him so hard he had fallen to his knees. He stayed where he was, since even Legolas' great strength had been exhausted. They had battled on the stairs for hours. Escape had seemed probably several times, but each time they had dragged him back down again.
For now, he'd have to wait and then choose his time of escape very carefully.
"Rise," the Queen commanded when he did not answer her.
Legolas stubbornly refused and found himself hauled to his feet by Elrohir. He gave his former friend a furious look, but it was obvious that Elrohir was not conscious of it.
"Remove his bindings," the Queen said and rough hands cut the ropes that bound Legolas' wrists behind him. He slowly rubbed the circulation back into his hands as he watched the Faerie Queen circling him.
"You are very stubborn, aren't you, fair one?" She dragged fingers across Legolas' shoulders as she walked behind him. Her touch was as cold as ice. "Shall I make you a bargain?" she purred.
"What kind of bargain?" he asked suspiciously, trying to keep her in his sights, but she kept circling around him.
"I will allow you to go free, if . . ."
"If?"
"If . . ." she leaned in close and nipped at his ear lobe with sharp little teeth.
Legolas pulled away in disgust.
"If," she continued with a treacherous little laugh, "first you give me a kiss."
"A kiss?" Legolas asked, arching a brow. "As simple as that?"
"Yes, as simple as that."
"I don't believe you," he said, hostility coloring his tone.
"My, what a suspicious one you are," the Queen teased. "But I promise you that with one kiss, I'll allow you to leave."
"And the other Elves?"
The Queen laughed her tinkling little laugh. "I'm afraid they must remain for a while at least."
"No." Legolas folded his arms across his chest. "I will not leave without my people."
The Queen sighed and Legolas tried to ignore her beautiful pout.
"Very well," she said with apparent reluctance, "you will not leave without your people."
"And they will be released from their enchantment when you release me?" he asked suspiciously.
"Of course," and she glanced up at him unhappily.
Legolas didn't trust her for one moment. Her pout was nothing more than an act. But if he could gain their freedom even for a few moments, he was sure he could rally the Rivendell Elves and make an escape. They vastly outnumbered the Faeries and could counter any plan the Queen was concocting.
"Agreed," Legolas said and taking a step forward, he gave her a brief light kiss on the lips.
"There," the Queen said sweetly, "that was not so bad, was it?"
"My people?" Legolas prompted.
But the Queen only stared at him, a triumphant smile on her face.
Legolas froze. What had she done, he wondered. Had she tricked him?
Considering his next move, Legolas nervously bit his bottom lip and . . .
Tasted Faerie wine.
*She did trick me!* his mind screamed. *There was wine on her mouth!* But even as he tried to speak, Faerie Enchantment swirled around him, seizing his soul in its misty clutches. Legolas felt himself drowning in the pleasant sensation of it. His body and his consciousness became fully entrapped and his will disappeared. His inner struggles ceased as the magic took complete hold of him. He found his limbs no longer obeyed him, instead answering to someone else.
Only a tiny portion of himself scuttled to the back of his brain, cringing in the corner. His eyes looked down into icy blue orbs and his outer self rejoiced in the Queen's presence. But that tiny little portion that was still Legolas, tried to look away in terror.
"You may leave now, if you wish . . . Legolas," the Queen purred and the enchantment locked around him permanently at the mention of his name. It gibbered gleefully in his ears as Legolas desperately sought a means out of the prison of his own mind.
"Nay, my Lady," Legolas heard himself answering. "Who would wish to leave your side? For you are the fairest of all beings."
*NO! You are foul as Sauron!*
Horrified, Legolas found himself going down to one knee.
*NO!*
"My Lady, allow me and all my kin to serve you."
*I do not wish to serve you! Set me free!*
"Of course," she answered with a sweet laugh of joy, "I accept your service. Come and you and I will become better acquainted . . ."
*NEVER!*
The Queen drew a cold finger along his jaw and Legolas felt himself rising to follow her.
*NO, I will not go with you!*
But his feet eagerly followed the Queen as she led him to a sumptuous chamber. Draperies of silk flowed from the ceiling, creating a veritable maze of colors and soft fabric. Legolas reached out a hand to take hers, that he might not get lost in this silken chaos. She led him to a huge round bed in the middle of the chamber and the part of Legolas that was still himself, was surprised to see Elrohir already reclined upon it. But his outer self accepted the sight without pause.
"You two will be my consorts," the Queen said, drawing Legolas down upon the bed. "Come, my fair one and let us see if you can please me."
*NO! I WILL NEVER PLEASE YOU!*
But his body did not listen to the furious and fearful cries of his mind.
*AI! NO . . .! ALEDE . . .!*
~ ~ ~
A/N: This just seems to be getting worse! Will Gimli and Alede be able to stop their quarreling long enough to do something about poor Legolas? And even if they do, what kind of magic is strong enough to counter that of the Faerie Queen? Find out in chapter 20, coming soon! ;)
AUTHOR'S NOTE AND HUGE APOLOGY:
1- I really screwed up with the yellow rose business. I used only one book as my reference and therefore had only one meaning. *sigh* Bad research on my part. Sorry!
Anyway . . . All of you got part of it right. Only Bchan and Thecla guessed, "Infidelity" which is the meaning that I was going for. But all the others are correct. I guess there is a meaning that fits each character actually. Legolas, albeit unwillingly, is the one to commit 'infidelity'. Gimli may be forced to form a 'friendship' with Alede in order to get Legolas back. And Alede . . . well, you don't need me to tell you that Alede will be filled with jealously once she finds out what happened between the Queen and our precious Elf!
2- I see that some of you are well versed in the realm of Faerie. I'll have to stay on my toes to keep ahead of you! ;) Most of the places and situations described here are a compilation of over 14 books that I read on the legends of Faerie. The tales were of German, Scottish, Finish and British origin. I did not include many Irish tales, since the Irish fairies tended to be more benevolent than these ones.
3- Also, "Faerie Shot" was really called "Elf Shot", since in the original tales; an "Elf" was usually just a 'male' fairy. Tolkien was the first to differentiate Elves as a separate species from fairies. Interestingly, elf shot was considered responsible for sudden paralysis. A person afflicted with elf shot was considered to be "stroked". Our modern medical term of "stroke" has its origins in 12th century folklore.
4- And this is the most IMPORTANT. I see that I've neglected lately to tell all of you how much your reviews mean to me. You guys are terrific!!!! Your reviews make my day and inspire me to write more. I'm sorry that I haven't thanked you for a while, but please, please know that I always read them and always appreciate them. To those of you who are new to these stories, welcome and thank you so much for taking the time to read them. Take care everyone and happy reading! :D ~ Nebride