Disclaimer: Just a starving graduate student here, don't own anything,
except unknown characters and my laptop that I am writing on =)
Chapter is set in the next morning.
I give up. My betas for this story seemed to have disappeared. Haven't heard from them for a while. I am not going to wait any longer seeing that this is my first story and kind of favorite, and it's still not done! I will be posting unbeta-ed, so please forgive any mistakes.
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Chapter 8: Bittersweet Friendship
Legolas awoke to find his body had become one giant sore. He tried to sit up and his muscles decided to reward him with an intensified ache instead of movement.
"Lucien and the others will be pleased to know that you have finally awaken. Do not try to move, my friend. Your body needs time to adjust to your new powers. How do you feel? "
Legolas stared at the one who tried to kill him earlier. He looked magnificent even in his simple traveling garb, with his short blond hair and penetrating blue eyes. His manners were casual, but Legolas knew firsthand how powerful this stranger truly was. The man now wore a warm and seemingly genuine smile. His voice was gentle as if inquiring on the welfare of an old friend. One would never have guessed this was the same man who tried to cut him to bits with blades of wind last night. He must be up to something.
Having observed the state of affairs between Lucien and the Elves, Darius knew it would not be easy to bring his friend and the golden Elf together. If he was to help Lucien, he needed Legolas to trust him as a friend. This animosity certainly would not do. You owe me a big one, Lucien. With a sigh, Darius did something he had not done to anyone other than Seraphina, his lifemate, since his 'first death'; he apologized.
"I am sorry about what happened. Well, not really, since you did break the seal on your powers, which you would not have be able to do if I didn't try to kill you; but I did jump to conclusions and tried to kill you out of stupid pride, which would have been the worst mistake of my life, considering you are my best friend's lifemate and all. So, what I am trying to say is that I shouldn't have attacked you," Darius somehow managed in one breath.
Legolas stared in shock for a few moments, trying to make sense out of the blond man's tirade. Finally, he said in an amused tone, "Were you trying to apologize to me?"
It was Darius' turn to glare. The Elf was making fun of him! His glare that could frighten members of his ruling council seemed to have no effect on this young Prince. Laughing softly, Legolas added, " Because if you are, you are definitely not very good at it, stranger." The teasing in the elf's tone was unmistakable.
"I have a name, young elfling, and it is Darius. You would do well to remember it and your manners as well when addressing an elder such as myself," Darius said haughtily, as if he is lecturing a small child.
"I would never have guessed your age from your skill at apologizing, Lord Darius." Legolas quipped.
"Why you, sharp-tongued, rude little Elf!!" Darius exclaimed, trying to sound as indignant as possible.
Legolas could no longer contain his laughter. Peals of contagious melodic laughter traveled through the forest, bringing mirth to all who heard. Despite his aching body, Legolas was content; he had just made another friend today.
"Crazy Elf, you are going to hurt yourself laughing," chastised Darius, trying to sound serious while stifling a laugh.
Intelligent, compassionate and trusting; with a sense of humor that would undoubtedly drive Lucien crazy... his apprentice is lucky indeed to have found one whose golden beauty is surpassed only by the light of his pure soul. Though Darius first sought Legolas' friendship for an ulterior motive, he found himself vowing never to let anyone harm the young Elf, not even Lucien.
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Haldir and Lucien returned from the creek in time to hear Legolas' joyous laughter. They walked into camp to see Darius helped the chuckling Elf sit up while mumbling something about stubborn Elves who didn't know what was good for them.
Haldir smiled, glad he had decided to side with the witches last night. He had loved Legolas since they first met. As he knew Legolas needed a confidante much more than another admirer, he was content to just be a friend. As time passed, Legolas had grown to be like a little brother to him. He would give anything to see Legolas happy. "I see you are feeling better, my friend." Haldir said as he moved to his prince's side by Darius.
"Not really, I ache as if I have been trampled by an entire orc army." Legolas replied.
"Do not say things like that. It is bad luck." Haldir said shaking his head.
"Ah, but I have nothing to fear since I have you as my protector," Legolas teased, turning dreamy sapphire eyes to Haldir and batted his eyelashes.
Unfamiliar with the concept of jesting and new to the world of emotions, Lucien felt his chest constrict as he watched the open display of affection. He had naively thought that since he knew and accepted the fact that Legolas loved another, he could be content with just protecting the Elf. But as longing and pain tore at him, Lucien realized that matters of the heart were not that simple.
While the brain is governed by reason and logic, the heart follows no such rules. Lucien can no sooner stop himself from loving Legolas than he could stop the sun from setting. Loving. Legolas? He is my light and it is my duty to protect him. I care about him a great deal, but I don't really love him, do I? How could I when it is against everything I have learnt in my life? And when I barely even know him?
"Are you alright? Is your wound paining you?" asked the soft lilting voice, hesitant and full of concern. When Lucien did not answer, Legolas tried to stand and go to him, only to be stopped by two very insistent pairs of hands. "Let me be, he needs me."
Lucien gazed at the cause of his torment. He could see that every movement is causing Legolas pain, yet the Elf persisted out of concern for Lucien's well being. Looking once more into those innocent sapphire eyes, shining with determination and concern, the witch knew the answer to his questions; he hoped that time would ease his pain.
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Far from the camp, Elenor was collecting sticks for making more arrows. The senior guards had anticipated attacks from orcs and spiders and wished to be prepared. The other guards had split up into two teams to scout the paths ahead for danger while Haldir remained at the camp to prepare for their departure and keep an eye on the strangers and their Prince.
"I would think that gathering sticks is hardly suitable work for a distinguished warrior such as yourself," remarked a thin, grating voice.
Startled, Elenor dropped his sticks, drew one of his knives and spun to face the speaker in one smooth motion. Before him stood a wiry middle-aged man, with ashen hair, a hawk-like nose and a thin sinister looking face. The Elf could not believe this man had approached him undetected. "Who are you and what do you want?" asked Elenor, unsheathing his knife and pointed it at the stranger's neck.
"Who I am is not important. What is important is that we have common enemies, those two witches. I can help you get your revenge, maybe even a taste of your sweet little Prince, if you are willing to co-operate," the dark sorcerer proposed.
"And why should I believe you?" the warrior challenged.
Quicker than the eye could see, the man leaned back, grabbed the guard's arm and twisted left, bring the arm with him behind the elf's back. Out of nowhere, a dagger seemed to materialize in the stranger's left hand and pressed hard against Elenor's throat. "Because I can kill you right now if you do not." Lazarus whispered in the elf's ears blithely, "Though I much prefer to kill the dark-haired witch instead."
Acknowledging defeat was agonizing for Elenor; but if the strangers held to his words, he had much to gain from this alliance. Soon, he would have his golden Prince and everyone would be sorry they underestimated his strength. "What must I do?"
The dark sorcerer placed a small pouch in the Elf's hand and whispered for some moments into his ears before releasing him. Before the guard could turn to question his captor, the man was gone.
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"We must move now. We will avoid the Mountains of Mirkwood as there is a high possibility of an ambush on those passes. We must head west through the woods and cross Anduin via the Old Forest Road. We should be safe once we cross the Great River," spoke Lehnirer as all returned to camp.
"Legolas is in no shape to travel. He probably won't be for another day or two. I thought you Elves are supposed to take care of him," Darius quipped, annoyed that the Elven guard seemed unaware of their Prince's condition. Darius had grown very attached to the golden Elf in the course of the morning. He had not had so much fun since he left Seraphina at home and began his travel to his people's council meeting.
"One of us will carry the prince then. We cannot tarry any longer, we have lost enough time because of you strangers," responded Lehnirer, irritation clear in his voice.
"I will carry Legolas. I am, at this moment, the weakest fighter in the group. We will need our strongest warriors free to react to any threat instantaneously, which would be impossible if they are holding him," Lucien reasoned.
"This is unacceptable. We cannot leave our Prince in the hands of a stranger!" Elenor exclaimed, intensely jealous at the thought of Lucien carrying Legolas.
"No, my friend, Lucien is right. He will carry our Prince and travel in the center. Lehnirer will lead and I will be our rearguard. Gather our packs and let us be off. The two witches can tell their tale as we walk," said Haldir with quiet authority, allowing no further argument.
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"I am not a baggage that needs to be carried around. I can take care of myself. I will walk," protested Legolas as he tried to stand, only to have his legs disobey him. He disliked showing weakness, but the truth was that he felt uncomfortable with the arrangement. He was already attracted to the man for reasons that were beyond him. Given the situation, it would be imprudent to be held in Lucien's arms until he learnt more about the man. He was surprised that Haldir of all people had agreed with the witch since his friend was well aware of his predicament.
Lucien ignored the Elf's protest and lifted him off the bedroll, but the knowledge that the Prince felt uncomfortable with his closeness hurt him. As Legolas struggled against his hold, the witch felt a sharp stab of pain in his heart. Though he hid it well, it was not lost on his mentor.
"Come on now, Princeling, would you behave for once? We won't get anywhere with you trying to walk or struggling with Lucien." Darius said in a mock serious tone. The Elf glared at him, but stopped fighting his ex- apprentice's hold. Well, at least that's a start. Those two will own me big when they finally become a couple.
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As the company began their journey, Darius started to explain their identities to the Elves. "As you all have experienced, Lucien and I have magic. We are Immortal High Witches."
"Like the Istari?" Arana interrupted.
"No, do I look like a bearded old man with white hair to you?" Darius asked sarcastically; he did not like interruptions.
"Not really, though that would be an improvement," Legolas said with a laugh.
"Your condition must have affected your eyes, little Elf, for even Lucien thinks I am rather dashing," Darius retorted, pretending to look smug as he glanced suggestively at his former apprentice.
That, however, was precisely the wrong example to cite. The laughter in the Elven Prince's eyes died as he said softly, "Oh, I see" before falling silent, pensively staring at the witch who carried him.
Darius knew immediately that something was wrong, but he could not quite place his finger on it. Until he understood what the problem was, there was not much he could do, so he opted to continue with his story, telling the Elves about his people, hunters, dark sorcerers and lifemates. He was careful to leave out the fact that Legolas was most likely Lucien's lifemate. He had a feeling the guards would not approve and the last thing those two needed was extra opposition.
Besides, the older witch wanted them to be together because of love, rather than duty or blind belief in destiny. As he finished, Darius glanced at his ex-apprentice and the Prince and was dismayed as he observed that neither of them had shown any reaction to his tale. The golden Elf was lost in thought while his apprentice was absorbed in scanning for possible danger. This is going to take more work then I thought. Darius thought with a sigh.
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Legolas was deeply moved by the witch's tale. He now understood his attraction to the hunter. Lucien was selfless, strong and kind. He had continuously risked his own life to protect his people, even when the ones he sacrificed so much for repaid him with fear and loathing instead of gratitude. The Elf had thought Lucien 'beautiful' when they first met; now having learnt of the nobility of his character, Legolas believed the word 'beautiful' was not adequate to describe the witch. Lucien's soft brown hair, dark brown eyes and proud angular features were put together perfectly to reflect masculinity and strength of character. It was as if his face was sculpted by some wild genius to depict the perfect male.
Attention focused on the forest around them, the hunter wore an intense and determined expression, ready to protect the one in his arms at the first sign of danger. Through the thin material of his black shirt, Legolas could feel the hardness and heat of the muscles in the man's chest against his face. As an unfamiliar sensation arose in his stomach, the Elven Prince felt as if the forest had suddenly grown hotter. Strong, muscular arms held him, yet the hands around his shoulders and knees were surprisingly gentle. Legolas found that his clothes had become uncomfortable and he could not stop himself from wondering what the man's hands would feel like on his bare skin.
Stop it, you stupid Elf. Lucien already has a lover who is gorgeous, funny and powerful; I can never compare to Darius. I was a fool to believe that the attraction was ever mutual. After all, how could someone as wonderful as Lucien not be taken long ago? Glancing once more at the hunter who had stolen his heart, Legolas told himself firmly that both Darius and Lucien were very dear to him and that he would be content as long as they were happy.
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At nightfall, the company stopped and set up camp in a small clearing. The junior guards were split into teams of two: one group was asked to gather firewood, the other to refill their water-skins. As they moved out of earshot of the camp, Lehnirer spoke, "I do not like it; the forest had been too quiet throughout our entire journey today. It was as if something was scaring them into not speaking with us."
"I feel it also. Something dark is at work here. If this continues, we cannot rely on the trees to inform us of possible danger. It will be more difficult to avoid traps set by orcs and other creatures of darkness," Haldir whispered. He did not like secrecy among friends, but he did not want to worry the young ones either.
"It is Lazarus' doing. I have no doubt of it, the question is how he managed to avoid your detection," Lucien said, looking intently at his ex- mentor. The hunter knew he was still weak from his previous battle and had relied entirely on Darius to scan for the dark sorcerer. The thought that Lazarus had gotten close enough to cast a spell was enough to send a chill down the hunter's spine. Though Lucien was not afraid of the dark one, he feared for his golden Elf's safety. Legolas had interfered with the evil sorcerer's plans and Lazarus was not one to forget a slight.
"I could not sense him because he is very far away, out of the range of my magic." Darius answered immediately. "I may not have hunted for over 1000 years, Lucien, but my skills have not deteriorated to such a point that the dark one could approach or cast without my noticing." The subtle criticism in his former apprentice's voice was not lost on him and it annoyed him intensely. After all, he did not have to stay and help.
Legolas could sense the brewing tension between the witches and knew he must interfere. "Darius, is there anyway the dark sorcerer could use magic in proxy without casting a spell? That way he could be very far away, so you could not sense his presence and since he was not really casting, you might not be able to detect his magic either."
"I have heard of dark ones sealing magic into things and using these cursed items against unsuspecting opponents. But I did not sense anyone following us; unless one of us is carrying a cursed item, I do not see how Lazarus could have used his dark magic without my knowledge," Darius said with a frown. He knew the Elf was probably right and disliked the implications. He had a strong suspicion of who the traitor was, but he could not confront him without proof. After all, the Elves are more likely to trust one of their own than a newly met witch.
"The sorcerer might be using other creatures of darkness to spread his evil magic throughout the entire forest. We may only be noticing a small part of it in our travels. And if that is the case, this Lazarus had just made enemies of all the Elves in Mirkwood. We will help you fight him." Lehnirer said and extended his hand, looking directly at the witches.
"Thank you, my friend," said Lucien as he moved to give the elf a firm handshake. Darius, deep in thoughts, barely noticed the budding friendship between the elves and his former apprentice.
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The Orcs were not too eager to follow his plans, so Lazarus had to give them a little incentive. The leader of the band, along with all his lieutenants, lay dead in various gruesome manners. Dark sorcerers were usually more discreet and rely only on their own strength and cunning to ensnare and destroy their victims. But a rare opportunity like this was too good to pass and called for bolder action. If he succeeded, Lazarus would not only be rid of a mortal enemy, he would also have the chance to conduct his little experiment. Not to mention he would have his revenge on Darius as well; he knew the witch would suffer for all eternity from the pain of failing to protect his dearest friend. After appointing command to a chosen few, the dark sorcerer left in search of a good vantage point for the impending battle.
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Sorry for not updating for so long. Haven't heard from betas for a while. Next up, Legolas in battle =) Now that I have decided to go without beta for this, it will be updated more often.
Chapter is set in the next morning.
I give up. My betas for this story seemed to have disappeared. Haven't heard from them for a while. I am not going to wait any longer seeing that this is my first story and kind of favorite, and it's still not done! I will be posting unbeta-ed, so please forgive any mistakes.
************************************************************************
Chapter 8: Bittersweet Friendship
Legolas awoke to find his body had become one giant sore. He tried to sit up and his muscles decided to reward him with an intensified ache instead of movement.
"Lucien and the others will be pleased to know that you have finally awaken. Do not try to move, my friend. Your body needs time to adjust to your new powers. How do you feel? "
Legolas stared at the one who tried to kill him earlier. He looked magnificent even in his simple traveling garb, with his short blond hair and penetrating blue eyes. His manners were casual, but Legolas knew firsthand how powerful this stranger truly was. The man now wore a warm and seemingly genuine smile. His voice was gentle as if inquiring on the welfare of an old friend. One would never have guessed this was the same man who tried to cut him to bits with blades of wind last night. He must be up to something.
Having observed the state of affairs between Lucien and the Elves, Darius knew it would not be easy to bring his friend and the golden Elf together. If he was to help Lucien, he needed Legolas to trust him as a friend. This animosity certainly would not do. You owe me a big one, Lucien. With a sigh, Darius did something he had not done to anyone other than Seraphina, his lifemate, since his 'first death'; he apologized.
"I am sorry about what happened. Well, not really, since you did break the seal on your powers, which you would not have be able to do if I didn't try to kill you; but I did jump to conclusions and tried to kill you out of stupid pride, which would have been the worst mistake of my life, considering you are my best friend's lifemate and all. So, what I am trying to say is that I shouldn't have attacked you," Darius somehow managed in one breath.
Legolas stared in shock for a few moments, trying to make sense out of the blond man's tirade. Finally, he said in an amused tone, "Were you trying to apologize to me?"
It was Darius' turn to glare. The Elf was making fun of him! His glare that could frighten members of his ruling council seemed to have no effect on this young Prince. Laughing softly, Legolas added, " Because if you are, you are definitely not very good at it, stranger." The teasing in the elf's tone was unmistakable.
"I have a name, young elfling, and it is Darius. You would do well to remember it and your manners as well when addressing an elder such as myself," Darius said haughtily, as if he is lecturing a small child.
"I would never have guessed your age from your skill at apologizing, Lord Darius." Legolas quipped.
"Why you, sharp-tongued, rude little Elf!!" Darius exclaimed, trying to sound as indignant as possible.
Legolas could no longer contain his laughter. Peals of contagious melodic laughter traveled through the forest, bringing mirth to all who heard. Despite his aching body, Legolas was content; he had just made another friend today.
"Crazy Elf, you are going to hurt yourself laughing," chastised Darius, trying to sound serious while stifling a laugh.
Intelligent, compassionate and trusting; with a sense of humor that would undoubtedly drive Lucien crazy... his apprentice is lucky indeed to have found one whose golden beauty is surpassed only by the light of his pure soul. Though Darius first sought Legolas' friendship for an ulterior motive, he found himself vowing never to let anyone harm the young Elf, not even Lucien.
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Haldir and Lucien returned from the creek in time to hear Legolas' joyous laughter. They walked into camp to see Darius helped the chuckling Elf sit up while mumbling something about stubborn Elves who didn't know what was good for them.
Haldir smiled, glad he had decided to side with the witches last night. He had loved Legolas since they first met. As he knew Legolas needed a confidante much more than another admirer, he was content to just be a friend. As time passed, Legolas had grown to be like a little brother to him. He would give anything to see Legolas happy. "I see you are feeling better, my friend." Haldir said as he moved to his prince's side by Darius.
"Not really, I ache as if I have been trampled by an entire orc army." Legolas replied.
"Do not say things like that. It is bad luck." Haldir said shaking his head.
"Ah, but I have nothing to fear since I have you as my protector," Legolas teased, turning dreamy sapphire eyes to Haldir and batted his eyelashes.
Unfamiliar with the concept of jesting and new to the world of emotions, Lucien felt his chest constrict as he watched the open display of affection. He had naively thought that since he knew and accepted the fact that Legolas loved another, he could be content with just protecting the Elf. But as longing and pain tore at him, Lucien realized that matters of the heart were not that simple.
While the brain is governed by reason and logic, the heart follows no such rules. Lucien can no sooner stop himself from loving Legolas than he could stop the sun from setting. Loving. Legolas? He is my light and it is my duty to protect him. I care about him a great deal, but I don't really love him, do I? How could I when it is against everything I have learnt in my life? And when I barely even know him?
"Are you alright? Is your wound paining you?" asked the soft lilting voice, hesitant and full of concern. When Lucien did not answer, Legolas tried to stand and go to him, only to be stopped by two very insistent pairs of hands. "Let me be, he needs me."
Lucien gazed at the cause of his torment. He could see that every movement is causing Legolas pain, yet the Elf persisted out of concern for Lucien's well being. Looking once more into those innocent sapphire eyes, shining with determination and concern, the witch knew the answer to his questions; he hoped that time would ease his pain.
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Far from the camp, Elenor was collecting sticks for making more arrows. The senior guards had anticipated attacks from orcs and spiders and wished to be prepared. The other guards had split up into two teams to scout the paths ahead for danger while Haldir remained at the camp to prepare for their departure and keep an eye on the strangers and their Prince.
"I would think that gathering sticks is hardly suitable work for a distinguished warrior such as yourself," remarked a thin, grating voice.
Startled, Elenor dropped his sticks, drew one of his knives and spun to face the speaker in one smooth motion. Before him stood a wiry middle-aged man, with ashen hair, a hawk-like nose and a thin sinister looking face. The Elf could not believe this man had approached him undetected. "Who are you and what do you want?" asked Elenor, unsheathing his knife and pointed it at the stranger's neck.
"Who I am is not important. What is important is that we have common enemies, those two witches. I can help you get your revenge, maybe even a taste of your sweet little Prince, if you are willing to co-operate," the dark sorcerer proposed.
"And why should I believe you?" the warrior challenged.
Quicker than the eye could see, the man leaned back, grabbed the guard's arm and twisted left, bring the arm with him behind the elf's back. Out of nowhere, a dagger seemed to materialize in the stranger's left hand and pressed hard against Elenor's throat. "Because I can kill you right now if you do not." Lazarus whispered in the elf's ears blithely, "Though I much prefer to kill the dark-haired witch instead."
Acknowledging defeat was agonizing for Elenor; but if the strangers held to his words, he had much to gain from this alliance. Soon, he would have his golden Prince and everyone would be sorry they underestimated his strength. "What must I do?"
The dark sorcerer placed a small pouch in the Elf's hand and whispered for some moments into his ears before releasing him. Before the guard could turn to question his captor, the man was gone.
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"We must move now. We will avoid the Mountains of Mirkwood as there is a high possibility of an ambush on those passes. We must head west through the woods and cross Anduin via the Old Forest Road. We should be safe once we cross the Great River," spoke Lehnirer as all returned to camp.
"Legolas is in no shape to travel. He probably won't be for another day or two. I thought you Elves are supposed to take care of him," Darius quipped, annoyed that the Elven guard seemed unaware of their Prince's condition. Darius had grown very attached to the golden Elf in the course of the morning. He had not had so much fun since he left Seraphina at home and began his travel to his people's council meeting.
"One of us will carry the prince then. We cannot tarry any longer, we have lost enough time because of you strangers," responded Lehnirer, irritation clear in his voice.
"I will carry Legolas. I am, at this moment, the weakest fighter in the group. We will need our strongest warriors free to react to any threat instantaneously, which would be impossible if they are holding him," Lucien reasoned.
"This is unacceptable. We cannot leave our Prince in the hands of a stranger!" Elenor exclaimed, intensely jealous at the thought of Lucien carrying Legolas.
"No, my friend, Lucien is right. He will carry our Prince and travel in the center. Lehnirer will lead and I will be our rearguard. Gather our packs and let us be off. The two witches can tell their tale as we walk," said Haldir with quiet authority, allowing no further argument.
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"I am not a baggage that needs to be carried around. I can take care of myself. I will walk," protested Legolas as he tried to stand, only to have his legs disobey him. He disliked showing weakness, but the truth was that he felt uncomfortable with the arrangement. He was already attracted to the man for reasons that were beyond him. Given the situation, it would be imprudent to be held in Lucien's arms until he learnt more about the man. He was surprised that Haldir of all people had agreed with the witch since his friend was well aware of his predicament.
Lucien ignored the Elf's protest and lifted him off the bedroll, but the knowledge that the Prince felt uncomfortable with his closeness hurt him. As Legolas struggled against his hold, the witch felt a sharp stab of pain in his heart. Though he hid it well, it was not lost on his mentor.
"Come on now, Princeling, would you behave for once? We won't get anywhere with you trying to walk or struggling with Lucien." Darius said in a mock serious tone. The Elf glared at him, but stopped fighting his ex- apprentice's hold. Well, at least that's a start. Those two will own me big when they finally become a couple.
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As the company began their journey, Darius started to explain their identities to the Elves. "As you all have experienced, Lucien and I have magic. We are Immortal High Witches."
"Like the Istari?" Arana interrupted.
"No, do I look like a bearded old man with white hair to you?" Darius asked sarcastically; he did not like interruptions.
"Not really, though that would be an improvement," Legolas said with a laugh.
"Your condition must have affected your eyes, little Elf, for even Lucien thinks I am rather dashing," Darius retorted, pretending to look smug as he glanced suggestively at his former apprentice.
That, however, was precisely the wrong example to cite. The laughter in the Elven Prince's eyes died as he said softly, "Oh, I see" before falling silent, pensively staring at the witch who carried him.
Darius knew immediately that something was wrong, but he could not quite place his finger on it. Until he understood what the problem was, there was not much he could do, so he opted to continue with his story, telling the Elves about his people, hunters, dark sorcerers and lifemates. He was careful to leave out the fact that Legolas was most likely Lucien's lifemate. He had a feeling the guards would not approve and the last thing those two needed was extra opposition.
Besides, the older witch wanted them to be together because of love, rather than duty or blind belief in destiny. As he finished, Darius glanced at his ex-apprentice and the Prince and was dismayed as he observed that neither of them had shown any reaction to his tale. The golden Elf was lost in thought while his apprentice was absorbed in scanning for possible danger. This is going to take more work then I thought. Darius thought with a sigh.
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Legolas was deeply moved by the witch's tale. He now understood his attraction to the hunter. Lucien was selfless, strong and kind. He had continuously risked his own life to protect his people, even when the ones he sacrificed so much for repaid him with fear and loathing instead of gratitude. The Elf had thought Lucien 'beautiful' when they first met; now having learnt of the nobility of his character, Legolas believed the word 'beautiful' was not adequate to describe the witch. Lucien's soft brown hair, dark brown eyes and proud angular features were put together perfectly to reflect masculinity and strength of character. It was as if his face was sculpted by some wild genius to depict the perfect male.
Attention focused on the forest around them, the hunter wore an intense and determined expression, ready to protect the one in his arms at the first sign of danger. Through the thin material of his black shirt, Legolas could feel the hardness and heat of the muscles in the man's chest against his face. As an unfamiliar sensation arose in his stomach, the Elven Prince felt as if the forest had suddenly grown hotter. Strong, muscular arms held him, yet the hands around his shoulders and knees were surprisingly gentle. Legolas found that his clothes had become uncomfortable and he could not stop himself from wondering what the man's hands would feel like on his bare skin.
Stop it, you stupid Elf. Lucien already has a lover who is gorgeous, funny and powerful; I can never compare to Darius. I was a fool to believe that the attraction was ever mutual. After all, how could someone as wonderful as Lucien not be taken long ago? Glancing once more at the hunter who had stolen his heart, Legolas told himself firmly that both Darius and Lucien were very dear to him and that he would be content as long as they were happy.
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At nightfall, the company stopped and set up camp in a small clearing. The junior guards were split into teams of two: one group was asked to gather firewood, the other to refill their water-skins. As they moved out of earshot of the camp, Lehnirer spoke, "I do not like it; the forest had been too quiet throughout our entire journey today. It was as if something was scaring them into not speaking with us."
"I feel it also. Something dark is at work here. If this continues, we cannot rely on the trees to inform us of possible danger. It will be more difficult to avoid traps set by orcs and other creatures of darkness," Haldir whispered. He did not like secrecy among friends, but he did not want to worry the young ones either.
"It is Lazarus' doing. I have no doubt of it, the question is how he managed to avoid your detection," Lucien said, looking intently at his ex- mentor. The hunter knew he was still weak from his previous battle and had relied entirely on Darius to scan for the dark sorcerer. The thought that Lazarus had gotten close enough to cast a spell was enough to send a chill down the hunter's spine. Though Lucien was not afraid of the dark one, he feared for his golden Elf's safety. Legolas had interfered with the evil sorcerer's plans and Lazarus was not one to forget a slight.
"I could not sense him because he is very far away, out of the range of my magic." Darius answered immediately. "I may not have hunted for over 1000 years, Lucien, but my skills have not deteriorated to such a point that the dark one could approach or cast without my noticing." The subtle criticism in his former apprentice's voice was not lost on him and it annoyed him intensely. After all, he did not have to stay and help.
Legolas could sense the brewing tension between the witches and knew he must interfere. "Darius, is there anyway the dark sorcerer could use magic in proxy without casting a spell? That way he could be very far away, so you could not sense his presence and since he was not really casting, you might not be able to detect his magic either."
"I have heard of dark ones sealing magic into things and using these cursed items against unsuspecting opponents. But I did not sense anyone following us; unless one of us is carrying a cursed item, I do not see how Lazarus could have used his dark magic without my knowledge," Darius said with a frown. He knew the Elf was probably right and disliked the implications. He had a strong suspicion of who the traitor was, but he could not confront him without proof. After all, the Elves are more likely to trust one of their own than a newly met witch.
"The sorcerer might be using other creatures of darkness to spread his evil magic throughout the entire forest. We may only be noticing a small part of it in our travels. And if that is the case, this Lazarus had just made enemies of all the Elves in Mirkwood. We will help you fight him." Lehnirer said and extended his hand, looking directly at the witches.
"Thank you, my friend," said Lucien as he moved to give the elf a firm handshake. Darius, deep in thoughts, barely noticed the budding friendship between the elves and his former apprentice.
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The Orcs were not too eager to follow his plans, so Lazarus had to give them a little incentive. The leader of the band, along with all his lieutenants, lay dead in various gruesome manners. Dark sorcerers were usually more discreet and rely only on their own strength and cunning to ensnare and destroy their victims. But a rare opportunity like this was too good to pass and called for bolder action. If he succeeded, Lazarus would not only be rid of a mortal enemy, he would also have the chance to conduct his little experiment. Not to mention he would have his revenge on Darius as well; he knew the witch would suffer for all eternity from the pain of failing to protect his dearest friend. After appointing command to a chosen few, the dark sorcerer left in search of a good vantage point for the impending battle.
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Sorry for not updating for so long. Haven't heard from betas for a while. Next up, Legolas in battle =) Now that I have decided to go without beta for this, it will be updated more often.