Late update again. . .*cringes, sorry to all of you, and special thanks to
all those who actual reviewed. . . I seem to have lost a few reviewers. . .
ALSO, we, (Meaning Carrie and I) have finished our first story to our Atta
Palurins series, and it is posted under the pen name of Carrie-n-Emmithar
(go figure). But Carrie and I are rather disappointed. . . where are you
guys?! LOL, I'm more lenient than Carrie is, so be grateful. But reviewing
our new story, Feaear, Spirit of the Sea, would make us very happy!! And
special thanks to Elanor for beta reading for me also.
Elithraniel-
Of course this story will continue, until the end that is. I've been late in updating cause I've been busy. So don't worry, and thanks for the review, I'm glad you like the wolf pups.
Belothien- They will do something, don't worry. But you're going to have to read to find out. I'm not saying anything.
ThE iNsAnE oNe-
LOL, the same goes to you my friend. I am always waiting for your next chapter. =D
Anita-
LOL, slow down, they aren't headed for Rivendell yet. Yes, perhaps Elrohir should think before he acts, but he was only trying to do what he felt was best. After all, he didn't yet know that they were harmless as pups.
JediKnightBalthasar-
Yes the world can be cruel. I've been through animal cruelty, so I know what I mean when I say it is indeed cruel. Most people just hear about, but few live with it. Good thing though is the cruelty around our place is stopped, and as of now our animals are safe.
LOL. . . very true. Think first, that's the key. Before they start yelling and inviting a hoard of Orcs to join their company. . .
As of now Nieninque has no part to play, other than being sweet, cute and adorable, as you said.
I know it's short, but short is better than none, I do try to make them longer, but I run out of time, and I rather not make you guys wait to all ends before reading more.
Gwyn-
Believe me, I am working as fast as I can, but I do have other things that are more important than this, sadly to say. I know it was a long wait, and I do not wish to fall that far behind again. But I can't make any promises. Thanks for your reviews
Chapter 18
"They do not," Legolas said shortly with a frustrated sigh.
"They do, I have seen them," Aragorn replied, kicking a loose pebble out of the way.
"White deer do not run through these parts at this time of the year. The air is too cold and no food survives for them. They stay in the open plains, where the air is warmer, and the short grass survives. For them to venture into these woods is to venture into their own deaths."
"Whatever you say, I know what I saw, and what I saw was a white deer," Aragorn protested.
"And you want me to trust your human eyes? I don't think that is quite a good idea. Besides, white deer do not travel alone. They are always in herds."
"And how would you know this? You are of the Mirkwood Realm last time I checked, not Rivendell."
Legolas shook his head. "If it is any concern of yours, I do travel to Rivendell often. I know the place as well as my own home."
Aragorn was about to protest, but Elrohir cut them off. "Please, both of you, stop your bickering. You're worse than the two of us."
"I hardly think that's possible," Aragorn replied.
The foursome were traveling toward Askverba to inform them of the planned attack. The twins led the way while Legolas and Aragorn trailed behind, weary from the last few days. Nieninque trailed along on the outskirts of the group, nosing his way around, his curious eyes checking every last rock there was.
"What do you think Legolas?" Aragorn asked, turning to the Elf,
Legolas raised an eyebrow at the human. "I am not going to back you up, if that is what you're expecting."
Aragorn scowled quietly. "You are no fun. I really don't see what Elladan and Elrohir find in you that makes you as great as a friend as they proclaim."
"I feel the same way about you. I think they pity you because you are human."
"Legolas!" Elladan snapped at the Elf behind him. "You know that's not true."
Legolas just smiled as he held his head up proudly.
Elladan scowled. "You are impossible."
"Strange, my father says the same thing," he mused.
"I wonder why?" Aragorn remarked.
"No one asked you, human," Legolas remarked, knowing how much that would irritate him.
"I do have a name, and if you wouldn't mind I would like you to use it."
"Oh, but the other one suits you just fine, besides it gets a better reaction out of you."
"Quiet you two, we are entering the woods of Askverba now. They are not known to be the friendliest people ever. It would be wise to enter quietly."
"In that case we better tie up the little trouble maker and leave him here until we return," Legolas said.
Elladan shook his head. "Nieninque won't harm anything."
Legolas frowned. "I was talking about him," he said flatly, pointing his thumb in Aragorn's direction.
Elrohir snickered softly as Elladan sighed, trying his hardest not to laugh. "Legolas that is not even funny," he claimed, smiling to himself.
"Why do I not feel very safe with you three anymore?" Aragorn questioned, folding his arms across his chest.
"Oh that is nonsense little brother. Everything will be fine. . ." Elrohir let his voice trail off.
"Someone's coming," Elladan hissed, drawing his bow. "Here," he tossed Aragorn a blade. "Be ready."
Legolas drew out his Elven blades, crouching down next to Elladan and Elrohir. Aragorn followed a moment later.
"Elladan, where is my bow?" he asked quietly.
"Rivendell."
"Why is it there!" he cried softly.
"I'll explain later. Be ready to fight."
"I do not think that would be a wise decision my friend."
The four of them turned round to face a man, clad in a vibrant red cloak. He stood tall, his blue eyes steady, showing no hints of emotion or thought. Elladan raised his bow to fire but the man did not move.
"Go ahead and shoot, Elf, then you'll find yourself dead, as well as your companions. My men have surrounded you. They wait for my command."
Legolas shook his head. "How?" It bewildered him that a group of men could sneak upon them.
"Put down your weapons and you may live through this encounter," the man warned.
For a moment no one moved, but then Elladan lay his bow down, and motioned the others to do the same. Legolas hesitated, unsure of Elladan's decision, but in the end followed.
Another man clad in the same color walked up beside the first, waiting for instructions. He was shorter than the first, his brown eyes however were almost as steady.
"Bind their hands, but under no circumstances are you to harm them. Is that understood?"
"Yes, Captain Arrgralo."
Arrgralo turned back to the four. "Do not resist, you will only make things worse for yourself," he told them as more men moved out.
Legolas couldn't help but hiss when a rugged hand grabbed his swollen shoulder, pulling his arm behind his back. He turned slightly, hoping to pull it out of reach, but the man easily grabbed it again, gentler this time.
"Captain, he is wounded," he announced, inspecting the flaming wound.
"We'll get him care when we return. Come we must not tarry too long. We are expected back."
*~*~*
The four were led quickly through the forest, the men refusing to slow their pace. As darkness began to fall Aragorn began to stumble, fatigue coursing through him. One of the men came near him, offering an arm in support.
They traveled near an hour longer before stopping. Arrgralo nodded wordlessly and their bonds were cut, only to be replaced a moment later in front of them. "Rest, young ones. We do not travel till dawn."
"Where are you taking us?" Elladan asked.
"That is not a concern of yours. Relax, food will be brought to you when it is ready."
With a sigh Elladan sat down, leaning against a tree. Elrohir and Aragorn taking place on each side of him Legolas sat down carefully a few feet away, trying his best to take care of his shoulder. The wound had been reopened accidentally when the man had grabbed a hold of it. Now it bled freely and he could feel the warm liquid trickling down his back, even hours later.
As promised food was brought to them, and though it proved to be a difficult task eating with bound hands, it was not impossible. Blankets were brought to them for the night as a select few guarded the neighboring borders. As the others fell into a restless sleep, Legolas stayed awake, watching the stars above the trees. However, sounds of a conversation redirected his attention to where Arrgralo sat. Around him three others sat, warming themselves by the fire, since they had given their blankets to their captives.
"The north path is restricted. Too many times have Orcs wandered across. King Terrican wishes for no more blood to be spilt," Arrgralo said quietly.
"But the only other path that is open at this time of the year is the west path, and that will add days to our journey)," another spoke up.
"We don't have a choice, Nen. The north path is restricted for good reasons. Until we find out where the Orcs are coming from and where they are heading for, no one is allowed to cross the north path."
Nen scowled, "I wasn't talking to you, Vanon."
"Hush now. We don't want to draw attention to ourselves. Who knows where those wolves are. They escaped from our hunters. Terrican fears that they will attack the town again. There is talk that the large wolves are coming from around here. I believe that the Orcs have something to do with it."
"Indeed they do, but there is so much more involved that you have yet to learn of," Legolas said quietly.
Arrgralo stood swiftly, making his way over. "What are you saying, Elf?"
"The town of Azscverbae is planning to launch an attack on Askverba. They are the ones breeding the wolves. They are the ones who you are looking for."
Arrgralo watched him carefully; the men behind him were silent. "I know not what you speak of, Elf, but if you have any information you will discuss it with the King. For now take your rest, you will need your strength for tomorrow's travel."
"Captain, there it is again," Nen called out to him, pointing in the forest.
Arrgralo made his way over, kneeling carefully. Legolas could see the slight form of a wolf running to and fro on the borders.
"Nieninque," Legolas whispered to himself.
"Shall we shoot, my lord?"
Legolas was about to speak up, but Arrgralo already answered . "No, it is only a whelp. Let him be, he brings no harm."
*~*~*~*
The hour had drawn late, and Legolas felt himself drifting in and out of sleep. His shoulder throbbed endlessly, and he found his thoughts straying.
He was startled when a hand was laid on his good shoulder, meant to wake him even though he hadn't even been asleep. Arrgralo stood before him, and motioned with a slight movement of his head for the Elf to move. "Come."
He helped the Elf to his feet, and Legolas followed him near the fire after a moment's hesitation. Pulling a knife from his belt, Arrgralo cut his bonds in one swift motion. "Take your tunic off and let me see to that wound on your shoulder."
"It's fine," Legolas said blandly.
"No, it is not. I have seen you through the day, you can barely move your arm. Come now, off with it," he said, pulling a wooden bowl from his sack.
Legolas sighed heavily, slowly unbuttoning the clasps on his tunic. Painfully he shrugged out of it, moving his hair over his shoulder so that it did not interfere with the wound. The cool air did feel good on it, he noted.
He let out a sharp hiss of air as Arrgralo pressed a wet cloth against the wound, cleaning it. "It's infected, but you'll live. Tell me, where did you acquire such a wound?"
"Orcs," Legolas whispered under his breath.
Arrgralo nodded as he pressed two fingers against the wound, bringing back a small amount of blood and smelling it. "It doesn't look like there was poison."
He pressed the cloth against the cut one final time before coating it with a thick ointment. Legolas inhaled deeply as it came in contact with the open wound.
"What is that?"
"A mixture of herbs and plants. It's a remedy that was found in Askverba. You were saying earlier that Azscverbae was involved with the wolves. How do you know this?"
"My companion and I were caught by Orcs, and held prisoner in Azscverbae. They have bred over 300 wolves to fight. They plan to attack soon. Though we do not know when exactly."
"If what you say is true, I do not think that our warriors can hold them off. The strength of the wolves are incredible, and they do not die easily," Arrgralo said, binding the wound carefully.
Legolas nodded. "I am aware of this . I have encountered them before." He carefully pulled his tunic back on, taking care not to tear the bandage. Arrgralo picked up a small piece of fabric, wrapping a bandage around it to create a makeshift sling. He eased it over the Elf's shoulder, slipping his arm inside.
"Drink this, it will help ease the pain," Arrgralo said a moment later, pressing a cup into his good hand. Legolas drank without question. Once finished, he handed it back, unable to conceal a yawn.
"Thank you," Legolas said after a moment. His shoulder was feeling better, he noted.
Arrgralo nodded. "I won't be able to bind your hands, so I must trust that you will not try anything. Can I trust you?"
Legolas nodded. "You have my word."
"Good, now go, and take your rest. Tomorrow will be a long day of travel."
TBC. . .
R&R
Elithraniel-
Of course this story will continue, until the end that is. I've been late in updating cause I've been busy. So don't worry, and thanks for the review, I'm glad you like the wolf pups.
Belothien- They will do something, don't worry. But you're going to have to read to find out. I'm not saying anything.
ThE iNsAnE oNe-
LOL, the same goes to you my friend. I am always waiting for your next chapter. =D
Anita-
LOL, slow down, they aren't headed for Rivendell yet. Yes, perhaps Elrohir should think before he acts, but he was only trying to do what he felt was best. After all, he didn't yet know that they were harmless as pups.
JediKnightBalthasar-
Yes the world can be cruel. I've been through animal cruelty, so I know what I mean when I say it is indeed cruel. Most people just hear about, but few live with it. Good thing though is the cruelty around our place is stopped, and as of now our animals are safe.
LOL. . . very true. Think first, that's the key. Before they start yelling and inviting a hoard of Orcs to join their company. . .
As of now Nieninque has no part to play, other than being sweet, cute and adorable, as you said.
I know it's short, but short is better than none, I do try to make them longer, but I run out of time, and I rather not make you guys wait to all ends before reading more.
Gwyn-
Believe me, I am working as fast as I can, but I do have other things that are more important than this, sadly to say. I know it was a long wait, and I do not wish to fall that far behind again. But I can't make any promises. Thanks for your reviews
Chapter 18
"They do not," Legolas said shortly with a frustrated sigh.
"They do, I have seen them," Aragorn replied, kicking a loose pebble out of the way.
"White deer do not run through these parts at this time of the year. The air is too cold and no food survives for them. They stay in the open plains, where the air is warmer, and the short grass survives. For them to venture into these woods is to venture into their own deaths."
"Whatever you say, I know what I saw, and what I saw was a white deer," Aragorn protested.
"And you want me to trust your human eyes? I don't think that is quite a good idea. Besides, white deer do not travel alone. They are always in herds."
"And how would you know this? You are of the Mirkwood Realm last time I checked, not Rivendell."
Legolas shook his head. "If it is any concern of yours, I do travel to Rivendell often. I know the place as well as my own home."
Aragorn was about to protest, but Elrohir cut them off. "Please, both of you, stop your bickering. You're worse than the two of us."
"I hardly think that's possible," Aragorn replied.
The foursome were traveling toward Askverba to inform them of the planned attack. The twins led the way while Legolas and Aragorn trailed behind, weary from the last few days. Nieninque trailed along on the outskirts of the group, nosing his way around, his curious eyes checking every last rock there was.
"What do you think Legolas?" Aragorn asked, turning to the Elf,
Legolas raised an eyebrow at the human. "I am not going to back you up, if that is what you're expecting."
Aragorn scowled quietly. "You are no fun. I really don't see what Elladan and Elrohir find in you that makes you as great as a friend as they proclaim."
"I feel the same way about you. I think they pity you because you are human."
"Legolas!" Elladan snapped at the Elf behind him. "You know that's not true."
Legolas just smiled as he held his head up proudly.
Elladan scowled. "You are impossible."
"Strange, my father says the same thing," he mused.
"I wonder why?" Aragorn remarked.
"No one asked you, human," Legolas remarked, knowing how much that would irritate him.
"I do have a name, and if you wouldn't mind I would like you to use it."
"Oh, but the other one suits you just fine, besides it gets a better reaction out of you."
"Quiet you two, we are entering the woods of Askverba now. They are not known to be the friendliest people ever. It would be wise to enter quietly."
"In that case we better tie up the little trouble maker and leave him here until we return," Legolas said.
Elladan shook his head. "Nieninque won't harm anything."
Legolas frowned. "I was talking about him," he said flatly, pointing his thumb in Aragorn's direction.
Elrohir snickered softly as Elladan sighed, trying his hardest not to laugh. "Legolas that is not even funny," he claimed, smiling to himself.
"Why do I not feel very safe with you three anymore?" Aragorn questioned, folding his arms across his chest.
"Oh that is nonsense little brother. Everything will be fine. . ." Elrohir let his voice trail off.
"Someone's coming," Elladan hissed, drawing his bow. "Here," he tossed Aragorn a blade. "Be ready."
Legolas drew out his Elven blades, crouching down next to Elladan and Elrohir. Aragorn followed a moment later.
"Elladan, where is my bow?" he asked quietly.
"Rivendell."
"Why is it there!" he cried softly.
"I'll explain later. Be ready to fight."
"I do not think that would be a wise decision my friend."
The four of them turned round to face a man, clad in a vibrant red cloak. He stood tall, his blue eyes steady, showing no hints of emotion or thought. Elladan raised his bow to fire but the man did not move.
"Go ahead and shoot, Elf, then you'll find yourself dead, as well as your companions. My men have surrounded you. They wait for my command."
Legolas shook his head. "How?" It bewildered him that a group of men could sneak upon them.
"Put down your weapons and you may live through this encounter," the man warned.
For a moment no one moved, but then Elladan lay his bow down, and motioned the others to do the same. Legolas hesitated, unsure of Elladan's decision, but in the end followed.
Another man clad in the same color walked up beside the first, waiting for instructions. He was shorter than the first, his brown eyes however were almost as steady.
"Bind their hands, but under no circumstances are you to harm them. Is that understood?"
"Yes, Captain Arrgralo."
Arrgralo turned back to the four. "Do not resist, you will only make things worse for yourself," he told them as more men moved out.
Legolas couldn't help but hiss when a rugged hand grabbed his swollen shoulder, pulling his arm behind his back. He turned slightly, hoping to pull it out of reach, but the man easily grabbed it again, gentler this time.
"Captain, he is wounded," he announced, inspecting the flaming wound.
"We'll get him care when we return. Come we must not tarry too long. We are expected back."
*~*~*
The four were led quickly through the forest, the men refusing to slow their pace. As darkness began to fall Aragorn began to stumble, fatigue coursing through him. One of the men came near him, offering an arm in support.
They traveled near an hour longer before stopping. Arrgralo nodded wordlessly and their bonds were cut, only to be replaced a moment later in front of them. "Rest, young ones. We do not travel till dawn."
"Where are you taking us?" Elladan asked.
"That is not a concern of yours. Relax, food will be brought to you when it is ready."
With a sigh Elladan sat down, leaning against a tree. Elrohir and Aragorn taking place on each side of him Legolas sat down carefully a few feet away, trying his best to take care of his shoulder. The wound had been reopened accidentally when the man had grabbed a hold of it. Now it bled freely and he could feel the warm liquid trickling down his back, even hours later.
As promised food was brought to them, and though it proved to be a difficult task eating with bound hands, it was not impossible. Blankets were brought to them for the night as a select few guarded the neighboring borders. As the others fell into a restless sleep, Legolas stayed awake, watching the stars above the trees. However, sounds of a conversation redirected his attention to where Arrgralo sat. Around him three others sat, warming themselves by the fire, since they had given their blankets to their captives.
"The north path is restricted. Too many times have Orcs wandered across. King Terrican wishes for no more blood to be spilt," Arrgralo said quietly.
"But the only other path that is open at this time of the year is the west path, and that will add days to our journey)," another spoke up.
"We don't have a choice, Nen. The north path is restricted for good reasons. Until we find out where the Orcs are coming from and where they are heading for, no one is allowed to cross the north path."
Nen scowled, "I wasn't talking to you, Vanon."
"Hush now. We don't want to draw attention to ourselves. Who knows where those wolves are. They escaped from our hunters. Terrican fears that they will attack the town again. There is talk that the large wolves are coming from around here. I believe that the Orcs have something to do with it."
"Indeed they do, but there is so much more involved that you have yet to learn of," Legolas said quietly.
Arrgralo stood swiftly, making his way over. "What are you saying, Elf?"
"The town of Azscverbae is planning to launch an attack on Askverba. They are the ones breeding the wolves. They are the ones who you are looking for."
Arrgralo watched him carefully; the men behind him were silent. "I know not what you speak of, Elf, but if you have any information you will discuss it with the King. For now take your rest, you will need your strength for tomorrow's travel."
"Captain, there it is again," Nen called out to him, pointing in the forest.
Arrgralo made his way over, kneeling carefully. Legolas could see the slight form of a wolf running to and fro on the borders.
"Nieninque," Legolas whispered to himself.
"Shall we shoot, my lord?"
Legolas was about to speak up, but Arrgralo already answered . "No, it is only a whelp. Let him be, he brings no harm."
*~*~*~*
The hour had drawn late, and Legolas felt himself drifting in and out of sleep. His shoulder throbbed endlessly, and he found his thoughts straying.
He was startled when a hand was laid on his good shoulder, meant to wake him even though he hadn't even been asleep. Arrgralo stood before him, and motioned with a slight movement of his head for the Elf to move. "Come."
He helped the Elf to his feet, and Legolas followed him near the fire after a moment's hesitation. Pulling a knife from his belt, Arrgralo cut his bonds in one swift motion. "Take your tunic off and let me see to that wound on your shoulder."
"It's fine," Legolas said blandly.
"No, it is not. I have seen you through the day, you can barely move your arm. Come now, off with it," he said, pulling a wooden bowl from his sack.
Legolas sighed heavily, slowly unbuttoning the clasps on his tunic. Painfully he shrugged out of it, moving his hair over his shoulder so that it did not interfere with the wound. The cool air did feel good on it, he noted.
He let out a sharp hiss of air as Arrgralo pressed a wet cloth against the wound, cleaning it. "It's infected, but you'll live. Tell me, where did you acquire such a wound?"
"Orcs," Legolas whispered under his breath.
Arrgralo nodded as he pressed two fingers against the wound, bringing back a small amount of blood and smelling it. "It doesn't look like there was poison."
He pressed the cloth against the cut one final time before coating it with a thick ointment. Legolas inhaled deeply as it came in contact with the open wound.
"What is that?"
"A mixture of herbs and plants. It's a remedy that was found in Askverba. You were saying earlier that Azscverbae was involved with the wolves. How do you know this?"
"My companion and I were caught by Orcs, and held prisoner in Azscverbae. They have bred over 300 wolves to fight. They plan to attack soon. Though we do not know when exactly."
"If what you say is true, I do not think that our warriors can hold them off. The strength of the wolves are incredible, and they do not die easily," Arrgralo said, binding the wound carefully.
Legolas nodded. "I am aware of this . I have encountered them before." He carefully pulled his tunic back on, taking care not to tear the bandage. Arrgralo picked up a small piece of fabric, wrapping a bandage around it to create a makeshift sling. He eased it over the Elf's shoulder, slipping his arm inside.
"Drink this, it will help ease the pain," Arrgralo said a moment later, pressing a cup into his good hand. Legolas drank without question. Once finished, he handed it back, unable to conceal a yawn.
"Thank you," Legolas said after a moment. His shoulder was feeling better, he noted.
Arrgralo nodded. "I won't be able to bind your hands, so I must trust that you will not try anything. Can I trust you?"
Legolas nodded. "You have my word."
"Good, now go, and take your rest. Tomorrow will be a long day of travel."
TBC. . .
R&R