I had some time to write this chapter, despite my humongous research paper
due in less than three days. Ach. I promise I will update more quickly
after this research paper is done, I actually have little else to write
after this paper (usually it's a good ol' expository essay a week deal).
Well, until next quarter. Anyways, this chapter is the necessary
transition chapter - no more torture! For all of you wondering how long
this will be, I believe that the story is now on the second half of it. I
warned that it would be long! I hope that everyone still does enjoy this
story, it will be taking a slightly different mood since there is no more
torture.
I have also noticed that sometimes fanfiction.net probably doesn't alert people that certain chapters were updated. Or, at least, that's what I assume. It appears that some chapters (including that previous chapter) did not alert people because there were hardly any reviews, while other chapters (like chapter 18) had many reviews. Perhaps I am wrong, but does anyone know if fanfiction.net actually does send alerts? I am just confused, so any help would be great!
PLEASE review, I have hardly received any reviews for these past chapters and it's very uninspiring for me. I love knowing that people actually read this, it helps me get the urge to write and I often post more quickly! So please review since it's all I have to work on. I really love hearing from my readers.
Also: I have written a poem over Aragorn and Arwen if anyone wishes to read it, it's called "Suddenly Smiling." If so, merely search for it on fanfiction.net!
****
The arrow quietly whistled through the air, the sound mixing in with that of shrill screams and the clang of metal against metal. Even the violent scream of Legolas was dulled, allowing the victim to be unaware as the projectile soared through the air gracefully. No sound was uttered as the pierced tip ripped into the skin, only a glimpse of surprise was noticed within the grey eyes. The world became silent as the pain seeped through the flesh, not allowing the desperate yell to reach the closed ears.
"Elrohir!" forcefully yelled Elladan as he watched his brother timidly close his slender fingers around the shaft of the arrow that had pierced him. "Speak to me!" Elladan cried out as he sliced through another Orc that defiantly impeded his path to his pained twin. Yet, Elrohir heard no words as the world subtly became speckled with white, disturbing his senses from realizing that yet another arrow was speeding towards him.
Elladan growled as more howling Orcs stood between him and Elrohir, his frustration and fear rising as the sight of his brother slowly disappeared. Even he could not see the projectile aimed towards his brother; this arrow that thirsted for blood, ached for death as it sang its toll of extermination for the half-Elven.
Then another sound accompanied that of the deadly arrow, disturbing the tune with subtle whispers of vindication and righteousness. This new arrow struck the old, murderous arrow as it cut through the air, causing the two arrows to fumble in their course and unceremoniously fall to the ground. Death was suspended from Elrohir, allowing him time to regain his thoughts in time to prevent another Orc from striking him.
Legolas let out a breath of air as his arrow had accurately hit the Orc's second one, relief flooding him as Elrohir remained standing and protecting himself from the horde of Orcs flooding upon him. Legolas then quickly strung another arrow and aimed towards where the Orc leader had once stood, but the bush held nothing within it. Frustration seared through his veins as he noticed the leaves rustle farther down the forest, revealing that the hideous creature had yet again escaped the Elf's fury. Replacing the bow with his sword, he sprinted after the fleeing Orc, determination speeding his legs and frustration impeding his mind's warnings of pain.
Legolas tore through the forest with his blonde hair whipping behind him as his blue eyes silently searched for the Orc. His chest wound was beginning to ache as he quickened his pace, but he deftly ignored it as he caught sight of the one he sought. Clenching onto the hilt of his sword, he slowly closed in on the slowing Orc, apparently believing that it was now safe from the previous battle. Legolas watched it slow down and anticipation of its death quickly flew into his mind; then the Orc completely stopped, bending over and shaking its head in disbelief. Clenching its hands into fists, it slowly straightened, muttering a few words in its black language.
Yet, as the creature began to continue to walk forward underneath the trees, a whistling arrow suddenly pierced its back; the force of the weapon so powerful that the point ripped through to the front of the body. The dazed creature slowly sank to its knees as death seeped into its muscles, blood leaking into its lungs and slowly flowing out its mouth. It hit the ground with a thud, his pierced lungs no longer cooperating to support his wasted body.
Legolas, with an anger infused face, slowly crept behind the rasping Orc, his bow still taut with another arrow; he watched in loathing as the creature took its last shaky breath. Turning over the dead creature, Legolas' eyes widened in surprise as he took in the facial features of the Orc. Throwing the creature's head backward, he growled again in frustration and slowly stood up.
A dark and slow laughter then pierced through the silence of the forest, its sound sending chills up the Elf's back. He slowly turned around to find the source, but his eyes could detect no movement, save the sway of the leaves with the breeze. His indifferent face relayed no information to the one hiding in the darkness, but his burning eyes emitted a silent deadly stare.
"Legolas, you amuse me," loudly stated a voice. Legolas quickly turned to the direction where the voice sounded from, grasping upon his blade and knotting his brows. Another round of laughter flowed through the dark air, creating more anger within the Elf. "She will not survive," it continued from a slightly different position, "Although you will, temporarily-to remember such a horrible failure." Legolas portrayed no emotion to the Orc leader's words, although his mind immediately began to question the truth in them.
"Show yourself, foul being!" shouted out Legolas, his eyes still aimed at where he supposed the creature to be.
"Do not waste such precious time on me," the Orc returned, this time from altogether new position that forced Legolas to again turn in that direction, "I will show myself in proper time."
"The time is now," stated Legolas, his eyes searching the trees around him, "Display your face!" The forest remained silent after the Elf's yell and Legolas realized that the Orc had disappeared without his notice. Clenching his hands, he slowly turned around and began to lithely run back to where the Elves continued to annihilate the Orcs.
****
Elladan raised his Elven blade to counteract the Orc's heavy scimitar, straining to keep the creature's blade from slicing further down. The Orc growled in frustration as the Elf quickly forced its blade off of his, but when it raised its blade for another attack, a dagger suddenly became lodged within its side. The surprise and pain of being pierced allowed Elladan enough time to swing his blade through the creature's thick skin, allowing more black blood to seep into the ground. As the creature fell, Elladan smiled slightly at Firithostion as a thank you for the help.
Firithostion nodded and then continued to attack the Orcs surrounding Elladan, trying to provide some space for the twin to reach Elrohir. Elladan began to run to his brother, swinging his blade around to protect himself from those who attacked him. He saw his brother struggling to remain upright and continue fighting with an arrow lodged between his ribs.
"Elrohir, how hurt are you?" quickly asked Elladan as he slashed down an Orc attacking his brother.
"I will not last much longer," gasped Elrohir. Elladan peered over at his brother now that he was closer, realizing that the wounded Elf was in great pain. Blood was flowing from the arrow wound and his face was waning in color as he continued to fight. Elladan then peered down at the unconscious she-Elf strewed on the ground beneath his brother's feet. A fear flamed in his eyes as he took in her condition, prompting him into hurry.
"Firithostion!" shouted Elladan. Firithostion quickly peered over at Elladan and then at Elrohir; ducking beneath a blade, he quickly ran over to the twins. "I need you to retreat."
"As you wish," stated the Elf, nodding his head in agreement. Elladan then turned his back to the Elves, defending them as they attempted to flee. Firithostion slowly picked up Haemerethwen, covering her in his cloak, and then urged Elrohir forward.
"Take them to the fords!" yelled Elladan at the departing Elves. Firithostion nodded his head once and then began to lightly jog away from the commotion.
****
"Legolas!" yelled a clear voice through the dense woods. The running Elf slowed down to a stop, turning his eyes upon the dark-haired Elf that was walking towards him. "The battle has ended." Legolas nodded his head and walked towards Elladan as he approached him.
"I could not find him, Elladan," he delicately whispered when his friend questioningly peered at him, "He has escaped." Elladan nodded in agreement to this statement, his face showing no response.
"We have brought her to the Fords of Bruinen," stated the twin as he drew his arm around his friend's shoulder and began walking, "Firithostion has already begun to heal her, though her wounds are extensive."
"Will she survive?" queried Legolas, directing his clear blue eyes upon Elladan. The half-Elf did not respond for some time, his eyes glossing over as he thought of what the result may be. He returned the Prince's gaze with darkened eyes, portraying the lack of hope within him.
"If she survives the physical tortures inflicted upon her, it is still unsure whether she will prevail the emotional harm," stated Elladan, his voice not faltering as he watched his friend drop his head slightly in sadness. "She was branded, Legolas."
"Branded?" he questioned, disbelief evident in his voice.
"It is a fresh wound as well," carefully stated Elladan, watching the Prince's reaction. Legolas clenched his jaw, immediately understanding that the violent screams he heard the previous night was the result of that Orc's fiery testament. Again, he heard the scream resounding within his mind, though now it was weakened and rendered less harm upon him. Closing his eyes, he shook his head.
"It is all my fault, Elladan," stated Legolas. Elladan stopped Legolas and, stepping in front of him, made the Elf look into his eyes.
"It is no one's fault besides the Orcs'," he silently responded, "But do not let her fade, Legolas." The Prince slowly looked away, not wanting to think of Haemerethwen fading. "You admitted that you denied her feelings that were hidden within you, feelings that she desired from you." Elladan shook Legolas as he said this, trying to grab the Elf's attention. "Now is the time to release those hidden emotions to her; it may be enough to end her fading. Do not fear love, Legolas, it has hidden the path you desire to follow. Give your heart to her and let her understand that there is more to this existence than fear and pain." Legolas slowly looked upwards at Elladan, a faint flicker of hope instilled within his eyes.
"And if I fail?" he asked.
"Love will not fail."
****
Thanks again to all my fabulous reviewers:
Sokochan: I let Thrakdreg survive, of course, too much of a valuable character to dispel of so quickly! I am not sure yet if I will describe the branding, but I know it will become important in later chapters, so we'll see!
CylentWind: I thought I'd try my hand at cliffhangers! I'm glad you liked it, too! Haemerethwen may still fall into the "dark side" (reminds me of Star Wars, lol), but it depends on what Legolas can accomplish. I hope you'll like what I'm doing for the rest of the story, you're a dedicated reviewer and I thank you again!
Night Interlude: I am a little confused over your review. I'm not quite sure if you're saying that Haemerethwen has turned into a Mary-Sue character, or if she varies from your typical female character. Could you clarify?
DarkNight: I was a little worried at first at seeing that you reviewed, I was thinking that you would be badmouthing me for my review! I guess I just assumed that you would've taken it the wrong way, even though I follow your story and really enjoy it! So, I'm glad that you took my review in the correct way, and I'm also glad that you reviewed my own story! Thank you so much for so many positive words and I hope you continue to review my story because it will be much appreciated! And I hope you update your story soon as well!
I have also noticed that sometimes fanfiction.net probably doesn't alert people that certain chapters were updated. Or, at least, that's what I assume. It appears that some chapters (including that previous chapter) did not alert people because there were hardly any reviews, while other chapters (like chapter 18) had many reviews. Perhaps I am wrong, but does anyone know if fanfiction.net actually does send alerts? I am just confused, so any help would be great!
PLEASE review, I have hardly received any reviews for these past chapters and it's very uninspiring for me. I love knowing that people actually read this, it helps me get the urge to write and I often post more quickly! So please review since it's all I have to work on. I really love hearing from my readers.
Also: I have written a poem over Aragorn and Arwen if anyone wishes to read it, it's called "Suddenly Smiling." If so, merely search for it on fanfiction.net!
****
The arrow quietly whistled through the air, the sound mixing in with that of shrill screams and the clang of metal against metal. Even the violent scream of Legolas was dulled, allowing the victim to be unaware as the projectile soared through the air gracefully. No sound was uttered as the pierced tip ripped into the skin, only a glimpse of surprise was noticed within the grey eyes. The world became silent as the pain seeped through the flesh, not allowing the desperate yell to reach the closed ears.
"Elrohir!" forcefully yelled Elladan as he watched his brother timidly close his slender fingers around the shaft of the arrow that had pierced him. "Speak to me!" Elladan cried out as he sliced through another Orc that defiantly impeded his path to his pained twin. Yet, Elrohir heard no words as the world subtly became speckled with white, disturbing his senses from realizing that yet another arrow was speeding towards him.
Elladan growled as more howling Orcs stood between him and Elrohir, his frustration and fear rising as the sight of his brother slowly disappeared. Even he could not see the projectile aimed towards his brother; this arrow that thirsted for blood, ached for death as it sang its toll of extermination for the half-Elven.
Then another sound accompanied that of the deadly arrow, disturbing the tune with subtle whispers of vindication and righteousness. This new arrow struck the old, murderous arrow as it cut through the air, causing the two arrows to fumble in their course and unceremoniously fall to the ground. Death was suspended from Elrohir, allowing him time to regain his thoughts in time to prevent another Orc from striking him.
Legolas let out a breath of air as his arrow had accurately hit the Orc's second one, relief flooding him as Elrohir remained standing and protecting himself from the horde of Orcs flooding upon him. Legolas then quickly strung another arrow and aimed towards where the Orc leader had once stood, but the bush held nothing within it. Frustration seared through his veins as he noticed the leaves rustle farther down the forest, revealing that the hideous creature had yet again escaped the Elf's fury. Replacing the bow with his sword, he sprinted after the fleeing Orc, determination speeding his legs and frustration impeding his mind's warnings of pain.
Legolas tore through the forest with his blonde hair whipping behind him as his blue eyes silently searched for the Orc. His chest wound was beginning to ache as he quickened his pace, but he deftly ignored it as he caught sight of the one he sought. Clenching onto the hilt of his sword, he slowly closed in on the slowing Orc, apparently believing that it was now safe from the previous battle. Legolas watched it slow down and anticipation of its death quickly flew into his mind; then the Orc completely stopped, bending over and shaking its head in disbelief. Clenching its hands into fists, it slowly straightened, muttering a few words in its black language.
Yet, as the creature began to continue to walk forward underneath the trees, a whistling arrow suddenly pierced its back; the force of the weapon so powerful that the point ripped through to the front of the body. The dazed creature slowly sank to its knees as death seeped into its muscles, blood leaking into its lungs and slowly flowing out its mouth. It hit the ground with a thud, his pierced lungs no longer cooperating to support his wasted body.
Legolas, with an anger infused face, slowly crept behind the rasping Orc, his bow still taut with another arrow; he watched in loathing as the creature took its last shaky breath. Turning over the dead creature, Legolas' eyes widened in surprise as he took in the facial features of the Orc. Throwing the creature's head backward, he growled again in frustration and slowly stood up.
A dark and slow laughter then pierced through the silence of the forest, its sound sending chills up the Elf's back. He slowly turned around to find the source, but his eyes could detect no movement, save the sway of the leaves with the breeze. His indifferent face relayed no information to the one hiding in the darkness, but his burning eyes emitted a silent deadly stare.
"Legolas, you amuse me," loudly stated a voice. Legolas quickly turned to the direction where the voice sounded from, grasping upon his blade and knotting his brows. Another round of laughter flowed through the dark air, creating more anger within the Elf. "She will not survive," it continued from a slightly different position, "Although you will, temporarily-to remember such a horrible failure." Legolas portrayed no emotion to the Orc leader's words, although his mind immediately began to question the truth in them.
"Show yourself, foul being!" shouted out Legolas, his eyes still aimed at where he supposed the creature to be.
"Do not waste such precious time on me," the Orc returned, this time from altogether new position that forced Legolas to again turn in that direction, "I will show myself in proper time."
"The time is now," stated Legolas, his eyes searching the trees around him, "Display your face!" The forest remained silent after the Elf's yell and Legolas realized that the Orc had disappeared without his notice. Clenching his hands, he slowly turned around and began to lithely run back to where the Elves continued to annihilate the Orcs.
****
Elladan raised his Elven blade to counteract the Orc's heavy scimitar, straining to keep the creature's blade from slicing further down. The Orc growled in frustration as the Elf quickly forced its blade off of his, but when it raised its blade for another attack, a dagger suddenly became lodged within its side. The surprise and pain of being pierced allowed Elladan enough time to swing his blade through the creature's thick skin, allowing more black blood to seep into the ground. As the creature fell, Elladan smiled slightly at Firithostion as a thank you for the help.
Firithostion nodded and then continued to attack the Orcs surrounding Elladan, trying to provide some space for the twin to reach Elrohir. Elladan began to run to his brother, swinging his blade around to protect himself from those who attacked him. He saw his brother struggling to remain upright and continue fighting with an arrow lodged between his ribs.
"Elrohir, how hurt are you?" quickly asked Elladan as he slashed down an Orc attacking his brother.
"I will not last much longer," gasped Elrohir. Elladan peered over at his brother now that he was closer, realizing that the wounded Elf was in great pain. Blood was flowing from the arrow wound and his face was waning in color as he continued to fight. Elladan then peered down at the unconscious she-Elf strewed on the ground beneath his brother's feet. A fear flamed in his eyes as he took in her condition, prompting him into hurry.
"Firithostion!" shouted Elladan. Firithostion quickly peered over at Elladan and then at Elrohir; ducking beneath a blade, he quickly ran over to the twins. "I need you to retreat."
"As you wish," stated the Elf, nodding his head in agreement. Elladan then turned his back to the Elves, defending them as they attempted to flee. Firithostion slowly picked up Haemerethwen, covering her in his cloak, and then urged Elrohir forward.
"Take them to the fords!" yelled Elladan at the departing Elves. Firithostion nodded his head once and then began to lightly jog away from the commotion.
****
"Legolas!" yelled a clear voice through the dense woods. The running Elf slowed down to a stop, turning his eyes upon the dark-haired Elf that was walking towards him. "The battle has ended." Legolas nodded his head and walked towards Elladan as he approached him.
"I could not find him, Elladan," he delicately whispered when his friend questioningly peered at him, "He has escaped." Elladan nodded in agreement to this statement, his face showing no response.
"We have brought her to the Fords of Bruinen," stated the twin as he drew his arm around his friend's shoulder and began walking, "Firithostion has already begun to heal her, though her wounds are extensive."
"Will she survive?" queried Legolas, directing his clear blue eyes upon Elladan. The half-Elf did not respond for some time, his eyes glossing over as he thought of what the result may be. He returned the Prince's gaze with darkened eyes, portraying the lack of hope within him.
"If she survives the physical tortures inflicted upon her, it is still unsure whether she will prevail the emotional harm," stated Elladan, his voice not faltering as he watched his friend drop his head slightly in sadness. "She was branded, Legolas."
"Branded?" he questioned, disbelief evident in his voice.
"It is a fresh wound as well," carefully stated Elladan, watching the Prince's reaction. Legolas clenched his jaw, immediately understanding that the violent screams he heard the previous night was the result of that Orc's fiery testament. Again, he heard the scream resounding within his mind, though now it was weakened and rendered less harm upon him. Closing his eyes, he shook his head.
"It is all my fault, Elladan," stated Legolas. Elladan stopped Legolas and, stepping in front of him, made the Elf look into his eyes.
"It is no one's fault besides the Orcs'," he silently responded, "But do not let her fade, Legolas." The Prince slowly looked away, not wanting to think of Haemerethwen fading. "You admitted that you denied her feelings that were hidden within you, feelings that she desired from you." Elladan shook Legolas as he said this, trying to grab the Elf's attention. "Now is the time to release those hidden emotions to her; it may be enough to end her fading. Do not fear love, Legolas, it has hidden the path you desire to follow. Give your heart to her and let her understand that there is more to this existence than fear and pain." Legolas slowly looked upwards at Elladan, a faint flicker of hope instilled within his eyes.
"And if I fail?" he asked.
"Love will not fail."
****
Thanks again to all my fabulous reviewers:
Sokochan: I let Thrakdreg survive, of course, too much of a valuable character to dispel of so quickly! I am not sure yet if I will describe the branding, but I know it will become important in later chapters, so we'll see!
CylentWind: I thought I'd try my hand at cliffhangers! I'm glad you liked it, too! Haemerethwen may still fall into the "dark side" (reminds me of Star Wars, lol), but it depends on what Legolas can accomplish. I hope you'll like what I'm doing for the rest of the story, you're a dedicated reviewer and I thank you again!
Night Interlude: I am a little confused over your review. I'm not quite sure if you're saying that Haemerethwen has turned into a Mary-Sue character, or if she varies from your typical female character. Could you clarify?
DarkNight: I was a little worried at first at seeing that you reviewed, I was thinking that you would be badmouthing me for my review! I guess I just assumed that you would've taken it the wrong way, even though I follow your story and really enjoy it! So, I'm glad that you took my review in the correct way, and I'm also glad that you reviewed my own story! Thank you so much for so many positive words and I hope you continue to review my story because it will be much appreciated! And I hope you update your story soon as well!