CHAPTER 19
AUTHOR'S NOTE
Just wanted to clarify a couple of dark spots in last chapter. It seems logical that Sauron would take Arwen as a new host after leaving Legolas' body. But if you go back a couple of chapters you will remember that Sauron had to work on Legolas for years in order to pollute his heart and get control over him; as he did with Eandiril (the elf he used before). In both cases the Dark Lord slowly used his influence, in the form of torture (on Eandiril), and the horrors of war (on Legolas); Arwen was never subjected to this process. Besides, since Arwen was already mortal I wouldn't think Sauron would want her mortal body (let's face it, our mortal bodies suck ^^). Now, he did take control over Legolas at the last moment, but he took advantage of Legolas' moment of weakness and blind hate to do it.
It also seems strange that Sauron is hiding there in such a small place with just a few guards; but you must remember that he was defeated in the war of the ring; he was divested from most of his power and he could not go around showing off what he had left, otherwise Aragorn, Gandalf and the rest of the good guys would have hunt him down. So, Sauron went south to hide and to plan his revenge. Now, he gathered a large army of orcs and other foul creatures and intended to conquer middle earth, but Leggy had already spoiled his original plans by killing and disbanding all of his army, and so the Dark Lord was left orc-less. Then he tried to use Legolas for his plans, but that failed too. Ultimately, when he tried to kill Aragorn and kidnapped Arwen, he was acting out of desperation, trying to get some of his revenge. The Uruks he used for the ambush and were guarding his lair could be considered as his "personal guards". Now, don't think that Sauron is gone for good, he will take part of the story again in future chapters (he can be very insistent); and don't think that Legolas and Arwen faced the last of their perils, much more is to come; in fact, this chapter is one of the most dangerous and angsty parts of the story.
Roselyne, I loved your review, your insightful comments show me that you are interested in the plot of my story and that thrills me. I hope the plot holes were clarified by all my previous rambling which, as you see was inspired by your review. Thank you and, Read On!!!
THE WOLVES
They crossed the chamber's entrance and found themselves into complete darkness. As they ran blindly thru the black tunnel, they stumbled several times in the Uruk's corpses that Legolas had left lying all over the cave. The rumble of the falling mountain was deafening, and rocks began falling on their backs as they ran. Legolas held Arwen closer to his body and placed his shoulder above her head, trying to protect her from the falling rocks.
As they reached the entrance they realized that it was nighttime already. The cold light of the moon filtered trough the bushes in the entrance and guided them through the last portion of the cave. Right at the moment they were crossing the entrance, the whole mountain collapsed and they launched forward landing a few meters away from the falling rubble.
Arwen fell first, and the impact of her stomach hitting the ground made her gasp for air; Legolas purposely landed on top of her to cover her and protect her with his body. He sheltered her head with his arms until the rumble stopped and everything around them went silent; the only thing they could hear now was their own rushed breathing and the beating of their hearts.
Arwen slowly opened her eyes and tried to move, but the weight on top of her wouldn't let her; it was then that she became very aware of the closeness to Legolas's body. And despite having a considerable weight on top of her, she noted that it wasn't uncomfortable at all, on the contrary, she felt very safe and warm in his embrace.
But soon enough a strange sensation formed in her belly and not knowing exactly why, she blushed. - "Legolas?"
As if burned by the contact with her body Legolas literally jumped off of her and mumbled an apologize. Her body almost cried out when the warm contact was broken between them; but even if her body yearned for more, she felt relieved when he withdrew, cause the sensations she felt confused her. She sat up to look at him but he looked away, avoiding her gaze, and under the silver light of the moon she could see all the shame and regret written in his face; at first it puzzled her, but then she understood that he still felt guilty for what Sauron did to her while controlling his body.
She could barely contain the urge to gather him in her arms and tell him that it wasn't his fault; but the confusion inside of her didn't let her do it. She stayed there sitting in the ground as he was. And at that moment she understood that the friendship they had shared during all their lives would never be the same.
A long, awkward silence followed; but then, Legolas sprang to his feet and looked behind her narrowing his eyes; something was wrong. A low growl was heard somewhere behind the bushes and grabbing her arm, Legolas urged Arwen to stand up.
Another growl was heard, and then another one. Soon the source was revealed as a dozen of Dunland wolves came out from the bushes, eyes and fangs shining under the moonlight. Legolas motioned Arwen to stand behind him and crouching like a feline, he prepared to fight yet another battle.
.......................
He realized he was unarmed, tired and wounded; it was going to be impossible for him to stop the beasts. Then he remembered the Uruks he had slain in the cave's entrance and with hints of desperation in his voice, he spoke to Arwen.
"Arwen! I need you to run to where the entrance of the cave was, now!"
Immobilized by fear she just stood there, not understanding what he wanted.
He insisted. - Arwen listen to me! I need you to find the bodies of some Uruk soldiers near the entrance and take the weapons so we can defend ourselves. Go! RUN!"
More by instinct than understanding she began running towards the rubble, still limping from the wound in her leg.
At the sight of Arwen running, the wolves launched forward, driven by the instinct to follow a running prey; but Legolas blocked both the leaders of the group. Grabbing them by the skin in their necks, he pulled them close to him. He clenched one wolf's head with his arm and closed his fingers tightly around the other one's throat. After a little struggle the second wolf fell to the ground choked by Legolas' powerful grip, but the other one was still struggling to escape. The rest of the beasts stood there confused, for their leaders were caught and they knew not what to do; but shortly after some of them reacted and attacked the outnumbered elf. At least Legolas had managed to draw their attention away from Arwen.
One of the beasts rammed Legolas' legs, knocking him to the ground. Still struggling with the leader, Legolas landed flat on his back. He waved his free arm while shouting desperately, trying to scare away the beasts. But upon seeing the opportunity to finish him; the wolves immediately jumped on him and he had to release the leader's neck in order to defend himself.
He frantically tried to block the gnashes coming from all directions; and the metal bracelets on his forearms and the grebes on his legs protected him from the sharp fangs. But the enemies were numerous and all strength was draining rapidly from his limbs.
After many struggles, one of the wolves could avoid Legolas' defenses and closed his jaws around his exposed shoulder. The beast shook its enormous head violently, tearing skin and flesh. Letting out a loud cry of pain, Legolas reached up with his left arm trying to get rid of the furious animal, but that opened up a space for the other wolves to attack, and so they did. One of them shot forward and closed his jaws around Legolas' torso, which was fortunately covered with the heavy leather vest; but the wolves' fangs were sharp; and soon enough could puncture the material and reached the skin.
Yelling like a maniac, Legolas threw desperate punches in every direction, but the wolves were fast and one after another they found open places to attack.
Upon hearing Legolas' desperate cries Arwen stopped and turned around to find him lying defenseless on the ground; with a dozen wolves over him. She saw the blood coming out of his wounds; she heard the anxious growls of the beasts, stimulated by the smell of their prey's blood; and she cried out anguished. - "Legolas!"
He cried back, almost pleadingly - "Arwen! Don't stop!! Hurry up!!!
New strength came to her limbs as she reached the pile of rubble. She noticed something coming out of the rocks that resembled a leg and started digging with her hands and nails. The sharp edges of the rocks tore the delicate skin of her hands; but right then she didn't feel any pain, not even when small rocks inserted deeply inside the wounds in her palms and under her nails. After a few minutes that seemed to last for centuries, she finally found a round shield. Grabbing it with both hands, she lifted up the shield from the dirt, and even though it was remarkably heavy, she ran with it.
Upon reaching the bushes, she tossed it close to where Legolas was while shouting his name. Legolas heard her and turned his head to find the shield lying a few feet away from him. He stretched out his right arm to reach it but he could only touch it with the tips of his fingers. Now a wolf was on top of him, sending violent gnashes to his neck, which Legolas could barely block with one arm. The beast contented on chewing on Legolas' hand, while he frantically tried to reach the shield. - "Just a little bit more!".
Arwen could not stay still, she got closer to the grotesque scene, looking for a way to help him; but Legolas saw her and told her otherwise. - "NO Arwen! Stay away!!!" - and so, she stepped back again. But this time she ran back to the rubble, looking for something, she didn't know what, but she had to do something to help. Then, she saw a sparkle, and immediately knew it was what she needed. It was a handle, half buried in the rubble. She bent and grabbed the handle. Then, shouting - "Elbereth, Githoniel!!!" - she pulled out the Uruk sword.
Legolas stretched out his arm again, but the heavy wolf on top of him didn't let him reach further. Then, pushing back the beast, he made one last attempt and clenched his fingers around the edge of the shield. Giving thanks to Eru and all the Valar, he slammed the shield against the wolf on top of him, knocking it off. Then, he grabbed the heavy shield with both hands and smashed it against every head he found near him, cracking skulls and dislocating jaws until he cleared up a space to stand up.
When Arwen saw Legolas standing up again, she was filled with courage. She remembered the day when he had shown her how to handle a heavy sword, centuries before; and surprisingly enough, she could still remember every move he had taught her. Shouting a war cry she sprang forward, promptly reaching his side, and immediately charged against a dumfounded wolf. The sword cut cleanly through the massive neck, opening a deadly wound; and the wolf fell limp to the ground.
Legolas looked at her in disbelief for a brief moment, but then, he charged against the remaining foes; while Arwen, motivated by her first victory, kept on throwing surprisingly fast and deadly attacks. They fought together, side by side, until only the wolves' leader, the biggest wolf, was left standing.
The beast was a seasoned, astute hunter; he attacked Arwen first, trying to startle and surprise her; but Legolas threw the shield at it's head with all his strength, hitting the beast before he could reach Arwen, and knocking it off balance. The beast stumbled at Arwen's feet and, without hesitation, she slammed the sword's blade against its skull, killing it.
She slowly lowered the sword, while sighing relived. It was then that Legolas got closer to her and rewarded her with the best compliment she had ever received in her life. She had been called Middle Earth's most beautiful creature; she had always been addressed as precious, wise and gentle. But nothing compared to the simple, but meaningful gesture Legolas offered her that night. He walked to her side, placed his hand on her shoulder and squeezing ever so slightly, he breathed out these words - "Good fight". He said it as if talking to a fellow brother in arms, for his tone showed real appreciation for her courage and skills. Never before had she felt so proud of herself. Looking back at him, she rewarded his kind words with a warm, open smile. Then, almost immediately after, she dropped the sword and fainted.
.............................
Well, what do you think?
Like it? Hate it?
Let me know.
Next chapter will involve much angst, so be prepared. I am afraid that Arwen and Legolas are going to end up hating me for all the pain I put them through. (^ ^)
AUTHOR'S NOTE
Just wanted to clarify a couple of dark spots in last chapter. It seems logical that Sauron would take Arwen as a new host after leaving Legolas' body. But if you go back a couple of chapters you will remember that Sauron had to work on Legolas for years in order to pollute his heart and get control over him; as he did with Eandiril (the elf he used before). In both cases the Dark Lord slowly used his influence, in the form of torture (on Eandiril), and the horrors of war (on Legolas); Arwen was never subjected to this process. Besides, since Arwen was already mortal I wouldn't think Sauron would want her mortal body (let's face it, our mortal bodies suck ^^). Now, he did take control over Legolas at the last moment, but he took advantage of Legolas' moment of weakness and blind hate to do it.
It also seems strange that Sauron is hiding there in such a small place with just a few guards; but you must remember that he was defeated in the war of the ring; he was divested from most of his power and he could not go around showing off what he had left, otherwise Aragorn, Gandalf and the rest of the good guys would have hunt him down. So, Sauron went south to hide and to plan his revenge. Now, he gathered a large army of orcs and other foul creatures and intended to conquer middle earth, but Leggy had already spoiled his original plans by killing and disbanding all of his army, and so the Dark Lord was left orc-less. Then he tried to use Legolas for his plans, but that failed too. Ultimately, when he tried to kill Aragorn and kidnapped Arwen, he was acting out of desperation, trying to get some of his revenge. The Uruks he used for the ambush and were guarding his lair could be considered as his "personal guards". Now, don't think that Sauron is gone for good, he will take part of the story again in future chapters (he can be very insistent); and don't think that Legolas and Arwen faced the last of their perils, much more is to come; in fact, this chapter is one of the most dangerous and angsty parts of the story.
Roselyne, I loved your review, your insightful comments show me that you are interested in the plot of my story and that thrills me. I hope the plot holes were clarified by all my previous rambling which, as you see was inspired by your review. Thank you and, Read On!!!
THE WOLVES
They crossed the chamber's entrance and found themselves into complete darkness. As they ran blindly thru the black tunnel, they stumbled several times in the Uruk's corpses that Legolas had left lying all over the cave. The rumble of the falling mountain was deafening, and rocks began falling on their backs as they ran. Legolas held Arwen closer to his body and placed his shoulder above her head, trying to protect her from the falling rocks.
As they reached the entrance they realized that it was nighttime already. The cold light of the moon filtered trough the bushes in the entrance and guided them through the last portion of the cave. Right at the moment they were crossing the entrance, the whole mountain collapsed and they launched forward landing a few meters away from the falling rubble.
Arwen fell first, and the impact of her stomach hitting the ground made her gasp for air; Legolas purposely landed on top of her to cover her and protect her with his body. He sheltered her head with his arms until the rumble stopped and everything around them went silent; the only thing they could hear now was their own rushed breathing and the beating of their hearts.
Arwen slowly opened her eyes and tried to move, but the weight on top of her wouldn't let her; it was then that she became very aware of the closeness to Legolas's body. And despite having a considerable weight on top of her, she noted that it wasn't uncomfortable at all, on the contrary, she felt very safe and warm in his embrace.
But soon enough a strange sensation formed in her belly and not knowing exactly why, she blushed. - "Legolas?"
As if burned by the contact with her body Legolas literally jumped off of her and mumbled an apologize. Her body almost cried out when the warm contact was broken between them; but even if her body yearned for more, she felt relieved when he withdrew, cause the sensations she felt confused her. She sat up to look at him but he looked away, avoiding her gaze, and under the silver light of the moon she could see all the shame and regret written in his face; at first it puzzled her, but then she understood that he still felt guilty for what Sauron did to her while controlling his body.
She could barely contain the urge to gather him in her arms and tell him that it wasn't his fault; but the confusion inside of her didn't let her do it. She stayed there sitting in the ground as he was. And at that moment she understood that the friendship they had shared during all their lives would never be the same.
A long, awkward silence followed; but then, Legolas sprang to his feet and looked behind her narrowing his eyes; something was wrong. A low growl was heard somewhere behind the bushes and grabbing her arm, Legolas urged Arwen to stand up.
Another growl was heard, and then another one. Soon the source was revealed as a dozen of Dunland wolves came out from the bushes, eyes and fangs shining under the moonlight. Legolas motioned Arwen to stand behind him and crouching like a feline, he prepared to fight yet another battle.
.......................
He realized he was unarmed, tired and wounded; it was going to be impossible for him to stop the beasts. Then he remembered the Uruks he had slain in the cave's entrance and with hints of desperation in his voice, he spoke to Arwen.
"Arwen! I need you to run to where the entrance of the cave was, now!"
Immobilized by fear she just stood there, not understanding what he wanted.
He insisted. - Arwen listen to me! I need you to find the bodies of some Uruk soldiers near the entrance and take the weapons so we can defend ourselves. Go! RUN!"
More by instinct than understanding she began running towards the rubble, still limping from the wound in her leg.
At the sight of Arwen running, the wolves launched forward, driven by the instinct to follow a running prey; but Legolas blocked both the leaders of the group. Grabbing them by the skin in their necks, he pulled them close to him. He clenched one wolf's head with his arm and closed his fingers tightly around the other one's throat. After a little struggle the second wolf fell to the ground choked by Legolas' powerful grip, but the other one was still struggling to escape. The rest of the beasts stood there confused, for their leaders were caught and they knew not what to do; but shortly after some of them reacted and attacked the outnumbered elf. At least Legolas had managed to draw their attention away from Arwen.
One of the beasts rammed Legolas' legs, knocking him to the ground. Still struggling with the leader, Legolas landed flat on his back. He waved his free arm while shouting desperately, trying to scare away the beasts. But upon seeing the opportunity to finish him; the wolves immediately jumped on him and he had to release the leader's neck in order to defend himself.
He frantically tried to block the gnashes coming from all directions; and the metal bracelets on his forearms and the grebes on his legs protected him from the sharp fangs. But the enemies were numerous and all strength was draining rapidly from his limbs.
After many struggles, one of the wolves could avoid Legolas' defenses and closed his jaws around his exposed shoulder. The beast shook its enormous head violently, tearing skin and flesh. Letting out a loud cry of pain, Legolas reached up with his left arm trying to get rid of the furious animal, but that opened up a space for the other wolves to attack, and so they did. One of them shot forward and closed his jaws around Legolas' torso, which was fortunately covered with the heavy leather vest; but the wolves' fangs were sharp; and soon enough could puncture the material and reached the skin.
Yelling like a maniac, Legolas threw desperate punches in every direction, but the wolves were fast and one after another they found open places to attack.
Upon hearing Legolas' desperate cries Arwen stopped and turned around to find him lying defenseless on the ground; with a dozen wolves over him. She saw the blood coming out of his wounds; she heard the anxious growls of the beasts, stimulated by the smell of their prey's blood; and she cried out anguished. - "Legolas!"
He cried back, almost pleadingly - "Arwen! Don't stop!! Hurry up!!!
New strength came to her limbs as she reached the pile of rubble. She noticed something coming out of the rocks that resembled a leg and started digging with her hands and nails. The sharp edges of the rocks tore the delicate skin of her hands; but right then she didn't feel any pain, not even when small rocks inserted deeply inside the wounds in her palms and under her nails. After a few minutes that seemed to last for centuries, she finally found a round shield. Grabbing it with both hands, she lifted up the shield from the dirt, and even though it was remarkably heavy, she ran with it.
Upon reaching the bushes, she tossed it close to where Legolas was while shouting his name. Legolas heard her and turned his head to find the shield lying a few feet away from him. He stretched out his right arm to reach it but he could only touch it with the tips of his fingers. Now a wolf was on top of him, sending violent gnashes to his neck, which Legolas could barely block with one arm. The beast contented on chewing on Legolas' hand, while he frantically tried to reach the shield. - "Just a little bit more!".
Arwen could not stay still, she got closer to the grotesque scene, looking for a way to help him; but Legolas saw her and told her otherwise. - "NO Arwen! Stay away!!!" - and so, she stepped back again. But this time she ran back to the rubble, looking for something, she didn't know what, but she had to do something to help. Then, she saw a sparkle, and immediately knew it was what she needed. It was a handle, half buried in the rubble. She bent and grabbed the handle. Then, shouting - "Elbereth, Githoniel!!!" - she pulled out the Uruk sword.
Legolas stretched out his arm again, but the heavy wolf on top of him didn't let him reach further. Then, pushing back the beast, he made one last attempt and clenched his fingers around the edge of the shield. Giving thanks to Eru and all the Valar, he slammed the shield against the wolf on top of him, knocking it off. Then, he grabbed the heavy shield with both hands and smashed it against every head he found near him, cracking skulls and dislocating jaws until he cleared up a space to stand up.
When Arwen saw Legolas standing up again, she was filled with courage. She remembered the day when he had shown her how to handle a heavy sword, centuries before; and surprisingly enough, she could still remember every move he had taught her. Shouting a war cry she sprang forward, promptly reaching his side, and immediately charged against a dumfounded wolf. The sword cut cleanly through the massive neck, opening a deadly wound; and the wolf fell limp to the ground.
Legolas looked at her in disbelief for a brief moment, but then, he charged against the remaining foes; while Arwen, motivated by her first victory, kept on throwing surprisingly fast and deadly attacks. They fought together, side by side, until only the wolves' leader, the biggest wolf, was left standing.
The beast was a seasoned, astute hunter; he attacked Arwen first, trying to startle and surprise her; but Legolas threw the shield at it's head with all his strength, hitting the beast before he could reach Arwen, and knocking it off balance. The beast stumbled at Arwen's feet and, without hesitation, she slammed the sword's blade against its skull, killing it.
She slowly lowered the sword, while sighing relived. It was then that Legolas got closer to her and rewarded her with the best compliment she had ever received in her life. She had been called Middle Earth's most beautiful creature; she had always been addressed as precious, wise and gentle. But nothing compared to the simple, but meaningful gesture Legolas offered her that night. He walked to her side, placed his hand on her shoulder and squeezing ever so slightly, he breathed out these words - "Good fight". He said it as if talking to a fellow brother in arms, for his tone showed real appreciation for her courage and skills. Never before had she felt so proud of herself. Looking back at him, she rewarded his kind words with a warm, open smile. Then, almost immediately after, she dropped the sword and fainted.
.............................
Well, what do you think?
Like it? Hate it?
Let me know.
Next chapter will involve much angst, so be prepared. I am afraid that Arwen and Legolas are going to end up hating me for all the pain I put them through. (^ ^)