Note: Well here is the chapter some have been waiting for. More hints as to
what Valdumus is and as the chapter title suggest we finally get to meet
someone! Lots of answers, but hardly all. ;)
********
The Choices We Make
*********
Chapter 17 Malaryn
Any master of battle should always take stock of his friends as well as his enemies.
Knowing both can, in time, be profitable.
- Anonymous
********
Elrohir rolled as he hit the ground to lessen his impact. He groaned when he hit despite his attempt and as he rolled he slammed into something that made him groan again. He was startled when the thing he hit groaned back and fell beside him. Elrohir raised his head and saw a surprised orc also raise his head and stare blankly back at him. Neither elf nor orc moved for several seconds as they stared at each other face to face in stunned silence.
Elrohir snapped out of the surprised silence first and with elven speed rose to his feet gritting his teeth against the complaint of his right knee. To close to worry about his bow he unsheathed his sword and in the same fluid motion sliced along the orc's face as the thing rose. The orc grabbed at its slashed cheek and fell back with a howl. Not waiting to give the orc a chance to rise, Elrohir plunged his sword down into the creature's chest. He tried to turn quickly and find his brother and Glorfindel, but his knee almost gave out and he had to grab onto a tree as he overbalanced.
Muttering every curse he could think of Elrohir timidly put his weight onto his injured knee. Gritting his teeth against the pain he was slightly satisfied to find that it would support him. The sound of clashing steel brought him back to the current situation and he, limping, pushed through the brush he had just crashed through.
******
"Elrohir?" Elladan called scanning the darkness, "What are you doing, taking a nap?"
Glorfindel hide a smile and focused on the gloom around them. Through experience he knew what was noisily clambering towards them. He aimed his bow in the direction of the beast and carefully fired. He was rewarded when a yelp drifted to his ears. Considering the thing could still cry out he knew he had only injured it. Glorfindel fired twice more into the dark relying on his hearing to guide his aim at the unseen enemies. Each arrow was meet with a matching orc wail. He risked a glance at Elladan. The younger elf was still on his horse fighting with his sword against two orcs on each side. 'Soon to be one.' The golden-haired elf shot the orc closest to him. Before he could take aim at the other one the now irate warg burst into view frightening the horses. Glorfindel had to drop the bow and hold on in an attempt to calm the horse as it danced around violently threatening to throw him off. The warg took this chance to charge the distracted elf and he collided with him and the horse sending all three sprawling to the ground in a heap.
******
After Glorfindel shot one of the orcs Elladan took the chance to finish off the other one. He turned to shout his thanks but yelled for Glorfindel to watch out instead. He winced as the warg brought the elf and horse to the ground. Elladan didn't have time to continue staring. In the momentary distraction he was not paying attention to his surroundings and Elladan saw movement out of the corner of his eye. He swung around just in time to find an orc charging him with a spear. He brought his sword up and barely deflected the end of the spear. With his other hand Elladan grabbed hold of the shaft in an attempt to rip the thing out of the orc's grasp.
Elladan held the spear at bay with his sword and struggled to take control with the other one. He was remotely surprised at how strong these gangly creatures could be. The horse pranced around in fear and in its dance stepped on the orc's foot. The orc cried in pain and instinctively bent over towards its broken foot. Elladan who was trying to push the weapon away was taken off guard by the sudden strong pull downward and overbalanced. He had time for one surprised shout before he was drug off the horse and in that instant he knew he was going to skewer himself on the spear tip.
******
Elrohir had to kill two orcs before he was able to get back through the wall of brush. He drew his bow as he reached the other side. The scene that greeted him was not a good one. Elrohir saw Glorfindel and his horse get bawled over and an instant later heard his brother cry out in surprise. Turning his full attention to Elladan he saw what was coming and in one smooth motion raised his bow and fired.
Elrohir shouted in joy as he watched the arrow hit the shaft of the spear and break it. He doubted he could make that shot again if he tried. He whipped his head around when a loud whine sounded. The horse and warg lay still. Glorfindel was getting slowly to his feet and Elrohir rushed over.
"Are you alright?"
Glorfindel did not miss the limp the younger elf was trying to hide.
"Yes, young one, but maybe I should be asking you that question."
Elladan was both surprised and relieved when he saw the shaft break. He hit the ground with a groan and the frightened horse bolted. Elladan sighed, picked himself up, and ran over to the other two elves.
"Are the both of you all right?"
Elladan saw Glorfindel pointedly look at Elrohir. Elrohir raised his hands up in exasperation.
"'Tis only a twisted knee, I do not think I am going to drop dead from it."
Elladan had to fight not to laugh and so changed the subject. He looked down at the prone horse.
"Thranduil is not going to happy about that and it would seem the other two horses fled."
Elrohir huffed.
"You would think horses used to a forest like Mirkwood would feel at home here."
"Maybe they are the smart ones," Glorfindel chimed in, "They would most likely slow us down anyway. We could not run them in a strange forest without taking the risk of injuring them in the dark."
Elrohir, glad to be ride off the infernal beast, agreed it would be much safer on foot.
"Looks like we continue on foot from here," Elladan turned to his brother, "can you manage?"
Elrohir gave him a mirthless smile back.
"Do I have a choice? But, yes, Elladan I will be fine."
As Elladan started to walk he couldn't help but comment.
"Very well. Come on hop along."
Elrohir gave his brother's retreating form a look that would have made even Nadina proud.
*****
The three elves traveled further into the gloom for what felt like hours without running into another living thing. Elrohir was starting to slow as the quick pace strained his injured knee. At Glorfindel and Elladan's insistence, and much to Elrohir annoyance, he was forced to take a short rest. Elladan waited with Elrohir as Glorfindel scouted ahead.
"This quiet is belying," Elladan whispered.
"I feel it too."
Glorfindel materialized silently beside Elladan causing him to jump, much to Elrohir amusement, in surprise.
"There is something up ahead," he said simply.
The three ventured ahead and came upon the same clearing Aragorn and Legolas had discovered in the early morning hours three days ago.
They hesitantly stepped out into the open and all three breathed deep of the fresher air. The three split up to inspect their surroundings. Glorfindel wondered over to the stone pile and stood there studying it. Finding nothing of interest Elladan and Elrohir came back to stand beside the fair-haired elf.
"How is it a haven came to be in the middle of such a foul place?" Elrohir wondered out loud.
Elladan, wondering the same thing, shook his head. He looked to the older elf.
"What do you think, mellonamin?"
The fair-haired elf did not give any sign that he even heard Elladan's question.
"Glorfindel?"
Elladan looked on wide-eyed as Glorfindel's eyes rolled back into his head and he caught the older elf as he collapsed strait down. Elladan guided his friend down and laid him on the ground much the same way as he had guided his father's fall. As fear pulled at Elladan's mind he grimly thought that he had guided to many elf lords to the ground lately.
*****
When they decided to look around Glorfindel felt the slight tingle of energy coming from the pile of stone, so curious he walked over to it. It looked to be the remnants of a house and he caught site of a weathervane lying in the grass. He was curious as to who lived here and how long ago that was. He heard Elladan and Elrohir come to stand beside him.
The strange tingling flared and he paid Elladan's question little heed as he wondered what exactly was transpiring. Before he could express what he felt to the twins a blinding white light flashed in his vision. The next thing Glorfindel knew he was still standing in the same spot, but the pile was no longer. The sun was shining on a cottage with the weathervane reflecting the bright rays of the sun. The place had a homely feel to it and despite the odd occurrence he was not afraid.
There was a figure standing in front of the house facing away from Glorfindel. Long dark hair hung freely down the woman's back shining with a hint of red in the sun. She turned to face the elf and he looked into deep pools of liquid brown. When she spoke her voice was soft and gentle, but there was an underlying power behind it.
"I apologize for the sudden call. I am not usually so harsh nor can I be most of the time."
Glorfindel nodded his head in acceptance.
"I take it this was your abode?"
She smiled knowingly at him.
"Yes, long ago. But I did not contact you to show you my dwellings. It is only that I am liked to this place somehow and this image is the easiest to project. I contacted you to try to help you. I do not have time to explain everything to you now, but I have already shown your friend much."
Glorfindel arched his eyebrow at the word 'friend.'
Malaryn laughed lightly.
"Do you not think it odd that although you are shielded from enemy I could still find you and, what is more, talk to you? I know you are here because your friend back in Rivendell told me you were coming and he is letting me make contact with you now."
Glorfindel nodded again. So it was working.
"It was you who tried to warn Elrond was it not?"
It was Malaryn's turn to dip her head in agreement.
"Since I already know your name my lord, I feel it only right to tell you mine, it is Malaryn. My sister is Nadina who you have not had the displeasure of meeting yet, but your friends have."
She held up her hand to stay the questions she saw coming.
"Please, if you will stay your questions I will try to explain in brief, because as I said before we do not have much time. Let us say that Nadina and I had our differences. She as well as I used to be what humans would call a magic user, but her power lied in illusion and charms."
Malaryn gave an amused smirk.
"Your friends, your 'male' friends, are lucky she no longer has the influence over men she once possessed. She was not always as she is now. With power comes temptation I am afraid. She gave into the temptation of another and even in death she serves him still. Be wary of her touch, she could freeze you were you stand. But it is not her touch to watch out for, do not let her ghostly figure surround you or you will die horribly before you are aware it is happening."
Glorfindel absorbed the information calmly and nodded.
"You said she still serves a master?"
Malaryn sighed.
"Yes, he is the one I have been struggling with over your lost friend. His name is Valdumus and he watches and is aware of everything that happens in these woods. It is why they are so foul. If not for your friend he would be aware of your presence now. His mind and will are very strong. He is what keeps Nadina tied to this land and what keeps me trapped in the shadows. This place is a sanctuary for me, but my presence is not fully here. I am tied to him as well. Long ago, it came down to a final confrontation between my sister and I. We ended up being each others demise and in his attempt to save his pet I was caught in his grasp as well. The twisted form of her spirit roams this land freely while mine is restricted."
"I am truly sorry lady. You said you are restricted, by what?"
"Not by something, but in something. A stone of all things. Can you believe it?"
Malaryn gave a bitter laugh.
"It hangs around the monster's neck even now. Should you ever get the chance, break it. If you can I will keep Nadina at bay for you. We have unfinished family matters to settle. Do not underestimate his mental abilities and he will probe your thoughts if you are not on your guard. I should also warn you that his cloak allows him to take whatever form he so chooses. Other than that..." she shrugged.
Glorfindel shook his head and smiled.
"Well, if that is that all, it should not be too hard then."
Malaryn laughed again.
Her expression turned series.
"You must hurry. Your friends and especially the elven friend you seek are in danger. Valdumus has been prying at your friend Legolas' mind since he and the ranger set foot in here. He has finally broken through the young prince's defenses and is now trying to bend him to his will. If you do not hurry he will suffer the same fate of loyalty and unquestionable servitude as Nadina has. His soul and mind will be to far gone from the light to bring back."
"What about the ranger traveling with Legolas?"
"I do not know what Valdumus' plan for the human is, but my guess would be that he will probably be slain once they reach his tower or a worse fate may await him in the hands of one such as he."
Glorfindel arched his brow in question again.
"Valdumus was a servant of Morgoth. Made from the twisted spirits of the night. Can you not think of any such being that was used as messengers, spies, or assassins by Morgoth?"
Glorfindel's eyes went wide at the question as he briefly lost his composure.
"I did not think any such creatures still walked Arda."
"Yes, unfortunately for your friends a few survived. His powers are weakest during the day and if you can make it to the tower tonight you will arrive shortly after your friends. If you attack just before dawn most of the orcs who still abide there will have gone to the deepest reaches of the tower to wait out the day. If you are lucky you may slip past them or at least take them by surprise. Once you take out Valdumus and Grimnosh the other orcs will most likely fall into disarray."
Malaryn quickly told Glorfindel about Grimnosh and his orcs and Jeridan and the wargs that were accompanying the two friends.
"The wargs will not go all the way back to the tower, they will head for their home in the mountains soon. Though the band of orcs escorting your friends is small take heed of the leader, he is smarter than he looks. Now you must go."
"Thank you Malaryn."
Glorfindel bowed in gratitude and Malaryn walked up to the elf. She kissed him on the cheek and whispered him his ear.
"You're welcome. Take care."
The blinding white light flashed again and Glorfindel looked up to see the worried faces of Elladan and Elrohir hovering over him.
"What happened?"
"Are you alright?"
"I am fine."
With that Glorfindel stood up.
"Come. We have to go."
Elladan and Elrohir still on the ground stared at him in confusion, amazement, and worry.
"But, what happened?"
"Are you sure you are well?"
"I will try to explain on he way, but we must get moving."
Elladan and Elrohir exchanged worried and confused looks. Elladan shrugged and they both rose to follow Glorfindel who was already leaving.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Legolas looked coldly up at Grimnosh.
"Touch me again and I will cut off your hand."
"With what elf?"
All of he weakness and emptiness Legolas had been plagued with recently disappeared with his epiphany. Renewed energy coursed through his veins and he felt strong again and Legolas flashed Nadina a wicked smile. With all his speed he sprung at Nakash standing next to his leader and, using the same move that worked on the orc yesterday, pulled the orc's sword from its sheath and in one motion swept it up to smack the surprised orc in the face with the hilt. Nakash's head snapped back with a groan and he fell backwards to the ground. Legolas looked smugly at Grimnosh.
"With this perhaps?"
Grimnosh narrowed his eyes at the elf and a feral growl escaped his lips.
"Puts that down," he said evenly.
"Legolas?" Aragorn whispered.
Aragorn knew this could only end badly for his friend. He did not wish to see the elf beaten again.
"Or what?" Legolas taunted.
"Legolas."
"You cannot kill me orc. What to do?"
"Legolas!"
Grimnosh advanced on the elf with a look that plainly pointed out that he didn't care how he was supposed to bring back the elf. After two steps Nadina floated in to block the orc's path.
"Out of the way!"
She gave the orc an irritated look.
"He is only provoking you idiot."
"Then I's intend to gives him his wish."
Grimnosh was taken back when Nadina laughed merrily. She gave the orc a pleased smile.
"You really are entertaining my dear orc. Where is your sense of humor?"
Grimnosh forgot about his anger. He was too confused.
"What?"
Nadina floated over to Legolas.
"Ready to go pretty one?"
Legolas nodded his head. He followed Nadina and as he passed Grimnosh he tossed the sword to the orc. Grimnosh and Aragorn's chin dropped to the floor. The two exited the cave and left the stunned orc and ranger behind. The two remaining exchanged matching looks off disbelief.
****
Aragorn's hands were bound again and everyone exited the cave. The wargs split from the group shortly after leaving and only Radoc remained behind with the orc group. After walking for sometime Legolas finally drifted into Aragorn's sight.
"Legolas?" he called quietly.
The elf turned when he heard his name and dropped back next to the ranger. He did not say anything to Aragorn; he just looked at him. Aragorn broke the awkward silence first.
"Legolas, what are you doing? What is wrong with you? Are you ill? Have you gone mad?"
"No, human I have not. I have finally come to my senses and if you were wise you would to."
Aragorn was appalled by what he was hearing and it made his heart heavy to hear his friend say such a thing. Legolas had never spoke the word human with such disdain before. Aragorn had to briefly shut his eyes to get his emotions under control. Obviously something was terribly wrong with his friend. There had to be a way to bring Legolas to his senses. Aragorn refused to believe otherwise. Every problem had an answer, one just needed to find it and somehow he would.
"It is alright my friend, you are not yourself. We will find a way out of this," he said more to himself.
Legolas smirked at Aragorn.
"What if I do not want to leave here? And how do you expect to get yourself out of this one?"
Aragorn had not missed the 'get yourself' and not 'get us' out of this one. Even though he knew something was wrong with the elf it was becoming difficult not to get angry with him for his aloof behavior.
"At least I still have hope," he snapped before he could stop himself.
Aragorn balled his fists when Legolas responded with mocking laughter.
"Hope? What do expect hope to do for you? It cannot save you and your brothers are not here to save you this time either."
Aragorn tried to remain calm, but his nerves had been severely stretched over the last couple of days and he was losing his temper.
"Do not mention my family, traitor."
Aragorn's temper only fueled Legolas' amusement.
"Traitor? At least I never lied to you."
"What are you talking about?" he practically yelled.
"You promised to find a way out of here already, remember?"
Aragorn closed his eyes again. He is only provoking you. 'Stay calm,' he ordered himself. That statement had hit a nerve and it took considerable control to not fall for the bait. It was only because he did remember promising to get them out of here before anything happened to Legolas. After the swell of anger passed Aragorn was filled with guilt. This situation was entirely his fault. If only he had gotten them out already... Legolas was right. His friend wouldn't have had to suffer and he would not have apparently lost his mind and they would not be having this dreadful conversation. He was also right in that no one was here to save him now.
"I am so sorry, my friend."
Aragorn couldn't bear to look at his friend like this and stared at the ground as he walked. He could not believe this conversation was even happening. It was almost too much to listen to his usually wise and caring friend act so cold towards him.
"Sorry?" Legolas laughed.
"Sorry? Actually I should thank you! I feel more alive than I ever have. Which is probably what you will not be much longer. We are here."
Aragorn looked up to see that they were clearing the trees. He sucked in his breath and stared in amazement at the bare and oppressive landscape to the black ominous tower in the middle of it. He could plainly feel the foulness and evil emanating from the place. Whatever had been plaguing them for days and mustering forces against them awaited in that tower. They had finally come to the heart of it and the end was near. Aragorn could feel it. Whether it was to suffer a horrible fate or by some slight miracle they would be spared he didn't know, but the end was near. He could feel it.
******
TBC...
******
They're here! Things have boiled down to the final couple of chapters. Only two chapters left!! The final confrontation is coming up in the next chapter!! I'm shivering in excitement. There are a lot of characters to deal with! Will it be in time to save Legolas? Who will survive???? There are some Grimnosh fans out there so you never know. Cross your fingers. Any thoughts on the final battle would be appreciated. Thank you to everyone who reviewed the last chapter! Keep them coming!
*******
White wolf - I think you are right and yep he is in trouble. Well, I would feel like I let Glorfindel and the twins down if I didn't make their lives miserable as well. I have a bad habit of picking on elves. The forest is just creepy isn't it? More evil? Nadina? Never. :P Wait a minute, when was she ever good? And Thank You ever so much for putting me on your favorites list!!!!!!! It really makes my day! Did I mention - I love you! And your story! ;)
Karri - Whew! No one got eaten by a warg, yet! Yep, things are looking pretty down. But remember what they say - its always gets the darkest before things totally go black. :P Bummer, still can't see the picture. : (
DiamondD - Hi back. ;) Thank you very much! Yes, it does look like our elf is a bit confused. But the end is coming, for good or for bad so hang on.
MoroTheWolfGod - OK!! Thanks for the review!
tapetum lucidum - It has been awhile. I was convinced you stopped following the story. I am pleased you didn't! Aragorn's rough times haven't even started yet, muah, ah, ah! Ahem, anyway, you may be right. I don't exactly picture Glorfindel as the serving type so, yeah; he had to do something. *Grins* Welcome back. Your reviews are most appreciated!
goblz - Things are heating up, but I am about to light the fire! Not too much longer to go, hang on. ;)
Sprout - I think I sorted everything out. Basically, you want everyone rescued? Well it is down to the final battle and you'll get to see who gets rescued and who doesn't. I hope all the good guys survive! But I warn you; I'm awfully attached to my baddies.
Tithen Min - He's going to be evil forever. Happy? Just kidding, I can't really tell you. :P Thank you, you are so fabulous, do you know that? I love you! Grimnosh does tend to get impatient with me. *Looks around sheepishly* I have to keep a watch out. Niedor? Doh, that's right it is Nienor, I think. *Scratches head* Well... it looks like we are narrowing down to the end. I'm nervous about how things are going to turn out! Oh, don't now if you are an Elladan and Elrohir fan, but... starting a new story staring them and a little Aragorn called "All That is Gold". I should warn you it has kind of a sad beginning, but it will get better. ;) Only to chapter tow and it looks like it is going to be a long ride as well. *Sighs* Will I ever learn?
********
The Choices We Make
*********
Chapter 17 Malaryn
Any master of battle should always take stock of his friends as well as his enemies.
Knowing both can, in time, be profitable.
- Anonymous
********
Elrohir rolled as he hit the ground to lessen his impact. He groaned when he hit despite his attempt and as he rolled he slammed into something that made him groan again. He was startled when the thing he hit groaned back and fell beside him. Elrohir raised his head and saw a surprised orc also raise his head and stare blankly back at him. Neither elf nor orc moved for several seconds as they stared at each other face to face in stunned silence.
Elrohir snapped out of the surprised silence first and with elven speed rose to his feet gritting his teeth against the complaint of his right knee. To close to worry about his bow he unsheathed his sword and in the same fluid motion sliced along the orc's face as the thing rose. The orc grabbed at its slashed cheek and fell back with a howl. Not waiting to give the orc a chance to rise, Elrohir plunged his sword down into the creature's chest. He tried to turn quickly and find his brother and Glorfindel, but his knee almost gave out and he had to grab onto a tree as he overbalanced.
Muttering every curse he could think of Elrohir timidly put his weight onto his injured knee. Gritting his teeth against the pain he was slightly satisfied to find that it would support him. The sound of clashing steel brought him back to the current situation and he, limping, pushed through the brush he had just crashed through.
******
"Elrohir?" Elladan called scanning the darkness, "What are you doing, taking a nap?"
Glorfindel hide a smile and focused on the gloom around them. Through experience he knew what was noisily clambering towards them. He aimed his bow in the direction of the beast and carefully fired. He was rewarded when a yelp drifted to his ears. Considering the thing could still cry out he knew he had only injured it. Glorfindel fired twice more into the dark relying on his hearing to guide his aim at the unseen enemies. Each arrow was meet with a matching orc wail. He risked a glance at Elladan. The younger elf was still on his horse fighting with his sword against two orcs on each side. 'Soon to be one.' The golden-haired elf shot the orc closest to him. Before he could take aim at the other one the now irate warg burst into view frightening the horses. Glorfindel had to drop the bow and hold on in an attempt to calm the horse as it danced around violently threatening to throw him off. The warg took this chance to charge the distracted elf and he collided with him and the horse sending all three sprawling to the ground in a heap.
******
After Glorfindel shot one of the orcs Elladan took the chance to finish off the other one. He turned to shout his thanks but yelled for Glorfindel to watch out instead. He winced as the warg brought the elf and horse to the ground. Elladan didn't have time to continue staring. In the momentary distraction he was not paying attention to his surroundings and Elladan saw movement out of the corner of his eye. He swung around just in time to find an orc charging him with a spear. He brought his sword up and barely deflected the end of the spear. With his other hand Elladan grabbed hold of the shaft in an attempt to rip the thing out of the orc's grasp.
Elladan held the spear at bay with his sword and struggled to take control with the other one. He was remotely surprised at how strong these gangly creatures could be. The horse pranced around in fear and in its dance stepped on the orc's foot. The orc cried in pain and instinctively bent over towards its broken foot. Elladan who was trying to push the weapon away was taken off guard by the sudden strong pull downward and overbalanced. He had time for one surprised shout before he was drug off the horse and in that instant he knew he was going to skewer himself on the spear tip.
******
Elrohir had to kill two orcs before he was able to get back through the wall of brush. He drew his bow as he reached the other side. The scene that greeted him was not a good one. Elrohir saw Glorfindel and his horse get bawled over and an instant later heard his brother cry out in surprise. Turning his full attention to Elladan he saw what was coming and in one smooth motion raised his bow and fired.
Elrohir shouted in joy as he watched the arrow hit the shaft of the spear and break it. He doubted he could make that shot again if he tried. He whipped his head around when a loud whine sounded. The horse and warg lay still. Glorfindel was getting slowly to his feet and Elrohir rushed over.
"Are you alright?"
Glorfindel did not miss the limp the younger elf was trying to hide.
"Yes, young one, but maybe I should be asking you that question."
Elladan was both surprised and relieved when he saw the shaft break. He hit the ground with a groan and the frightened horse bolted. Elladan sighed, picked himself up, and ran over to the other two elves.
"Are the both of you all right?"
Elladan saw Glorfindel pointedly look at Elrohir. Elrohir raised his hands up in exasperation.
"'Tis only a twisted knee, I do not think I am going to drop dead from it."
Elladan had to fight not to laugh and so changed the subject. He looked down at the prone horse.
"Thranduil is not going to happy about that and it would seem the other two horses fled."
Elrohir huffed.
"You would think horses used to a forest like Mirkwood would feel at home here."
"Maybe they are the smart ones," Glorfindel chimed in, "They would most likely slow us down anyway. We could not run them in a strange forest without taking the risk of injuring them in the dark."
Elrohir, glad to be ride off the infernal beast, agreed it would be much safer on foot.
"Looks like we continue on foot from here," Elladan turned to his brother, "can you manage?"
Elrohir gave him a mirthless smile back.
"Do I have a choice? But, yes, Elladan I will be fine."
As Elladan started to walk he couldn't help but comment.
"Very well. Come on hop along."
Elrohir gave his brother's retreating form a look that would have made even Nadina proud.
*****
The three elves traveled further into the gloom for what felt like hours without running into another living thing. Elrohir was starting to slow as the quick pace strained his injured knee. At Glorfindel and Elladan's insistence, and much to Elrohir annoyance, he was forced to take a short rest. Elladan waited with Elrohir as Glorfindel scouted ahead.
"This quiet is belying," Elladan whispered.
"I feel it too."
Glorfindel materialized silently beside Elladan causing him to jump, much to Elrohir amusement, in surprise.
"There is something up ahead," he said simply.
The three ventured ahead and came upon the same clearing Aragorn and Legolas had discovered in the early morning hours three days ago.
They hesitantly stepped out into the open and all three breathed deep of the fresher air. The three split up to inspect their surroundings. Glorfindel wondered over to the stone pile and stood there studying it. Finding nothing of interest Elladan and Elrohir came back to stand beside the fair-haired elf.
"How is it a haven came to be in the middle of such a foul place?" Elrohir wondered out loud.
Elladan, wondering the same thing, shook his head. He looked to the older elf.
"What do you think, mellonamin?"
The fair-haired elf did not give any sign that he even heard Elladan's question.
"Glorfindel?"
Elladan looked on wide-eyed as Glorfindel's eyes rolled back into his head and he caught the older elf as he collapsed strait down. Elladan guided his friend down and laid him on the ground much the same way as he had guided his father's fall. As fear pulled at Elladan's mind he grimly thought that he had guided to many elf lords to the ground lately.
*****
When they decided to look around Glorfindel felt the slight tingle of energy coming from the pile of stone, so curious he walked over to it. It looked to be the remnants of a house and he caught site of a weathervane lying in the grass. He was curious as to who lived here and how long ago that was. He heard Elladan and Elrohir come to stand beside him.
The strange tingling flared and he paid Elladan's question little heed as he wondered what exactly was transpiring. Before he could express what he felt to the twins a blinding white light flashed in his vision. The next thing Glorfindel knew he was still standing in the same spot, but the pile was no longer. The sun was shining on a cottage with the weathervane reflecting the bright rays of the sun. The place had a homely feel to it and despite the odd occurrence he was not afraid.
There was a figure standing in front of the house facing away from Glorfindel. Long dark hair hung freely down the woman's back shining with a hint of red in the sun. She turned to face the elf and he looked into deep pools of liquid brown. When she spoke her voice was soft and gentle, but there was an underlying power behind it.
"I apologize for the sudden call. I am not usually so harsh nor can I be most of the time."
Glorfindel nodded his head in acceptance.
"I take it this was your abode?"
She smiled knowingly at him.
"Yes, long ago. But I did not contact you to show you my dwellings. It is only that I am liked to this place somehow and this image is the easiest to project. I contacted you to try to help you. I do not have time to explain everything to you now, but I have already shown your friend much."
Glorfindel arched his eyebrow at the word 'friend.'
Malaryn laughed lightly.
"Do you not think it odd that although you are shielded from enemy I could still find you and, what is more, talk to you? I know you are here because your friend back in Rivendell told me you were coming and he is letting me make contact with you now."
Glorfindel nodded again. So it was working.
"It was you who tried to warn Elrond was it not?"
It was Malaryn's turn to dip her head in agreement.
"Since I already know your name my lord, I feel it only right to tell you mine, it is Malaryn. My sister is Nadina who you have not had the displeasure of meeting yet, but your friends have."
She held up her hand to stay the questions she saw coming.
"Please, if you will stay your questions I will try to explain in brief, because as I said before we do not have much time. Let us say that Nadina and I had our differences. She as well as I used to be what humans would call a magic user, but her power lied in illusion and charms."
Malaryn gave an amused smirk.
"Your friends, your 'male' friends, are lucky she no longer has the influence over men she once possessed. She was not always as she is now. With power comes temptation I am afraid. She gave into the temptation of another and even in death she serves him still. Be wary of her touch, she could freeze you were you stand. But it is not her touch to watch out for, do not let her ghostly figure surround you or you will die horribly before you are aware it is happening."
Glorfindel absorbed the information calmly and nodded.
"You said she still serves a master?"
Malaryn sighed.
"Yes, he is the one I have been struggling with over your lost friend. His name is Valdumus and he watches and is aware of everything that happens in these woods. It is why they are so foul. If not for your friend he would be aware of your presence now. His mind and will are very strong. He is what keeps Nadina tied to this land and what keeps me trapped in the shadows. This place is a sanctuary for me, but my presence is not fully here. I am tied to him as well. Long ago, it came down to a final confrontation between my sister and I. We ended up being each others demise and in his attempt to save his pet I was caught in his grasp as well. The twisted form of her spirit roams this land freely while mine is restricted."
"I am truly sorry lady. You said you are restricted, by what?"
"Not by something, but in something. A stone of all things. Can you believe it?"
Malaryn gave a bitter laugh.
"It hangs around the monster's neck even now. Should you ever get the chance, break it. If you can I will keep Nadina at bay for you. We have unfinished family matters to settle. Do not underestimate his mental abilities and he will probe your thoughts if you are not on your guard. I should also warn you that his cloak allows him to take whatever form he so chooses. Other than that..." she shrugged.
Glorfindel shook his head and smiled.
"Well, if that is that all, it should not be too hard then."
Malaryn laughed again.
Her expression turned series.
"You must hurry. Your friends and especially the elven friend you seek are in danger. Valdumus has been prying at your friend Legolas' mind since he and the ranger set foot in here. He has finally broken through the young prince's defenses and is now trying to bend him to his will. If you do not hurry he will suffer the same fate of loyalty and unquestionable servitude as Nadina has. His soul and mind will be to far gone from the light to bring back."
"What about the ranger traveling with Legolas?"
"I do not know what Valdumus' plan for the human is, but my guess would be that he will probably be slain once they reach his tower or a worse fate may await him in the hands of one such as he."
Glorfindel arched his brow in question again.
"Valdumus was a servant of Morgoth. Made from the twisted spirits of the night. Can you not think of any such being that was used as messengers, spies, or assassins by Morgoth?"
Glorfindel's eyes went wide at the question as he briefly lost his composure.
"I did not think any such creatures still walked Arda."
"Yes, unfortunately for your friends a few survived. His powers are weakest during the day and if you can make it to the tower tonight you will arrive shortly after your friends. If you attack just before dawn most of the orcs who still abide there will have gone to the deepest reaches of the tower to wait out the day. If you are lucky you may slip past them or at least take them by surprise. Once you take out Valdumus and Grimnosh the other orcs will most likely fall into disarray."
Malaryn quickly told Glorfindel about Grimnosh and his orcs and Jeridan and the wargs that were accompanying the two friends.
"The wargs will not go all the way back to the tower, they will head for their home in the mountains soon. Though the band of orcs escorting your friends is small take heed of the leader, he is smarter than he looks. Now you must go."
"Thank you Malaryn."
Glorfindel bowed in gratitude and Malaryn walked up to the elf. She kissed him on the cheek and whispered him his ear.
"You're welcome. Take care."
The blinding white light flashed again and Glorfindel looked up to see the worried faces of Elladan and Elrohir hovering over him.
"What happened?"
"Are you alright?"
"I am fine."
With that Glorfindel stood up.
"Come. We have to go."
Elladan and Elrohir still on the ground stared at him in confusion, amazement, and worry.
"But, what happened?"
"Are you sure you are well?"
"I will try to explain on he way, but we must get moving."
Elladan and Elrohir exchanged worried and confused looks. Elladan shrugged and they both rose to follow Glorfindel who was already leaving.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Legolas looked coldly up at Grimnosh.
"Touch me again and I will cut off your hand."
"With what elf?"
All of he weakness and emptiness Legolas had been plagued with recently disappeared with his epiphany. Renewed energy coursed through his veins and he felt strong again and Legolas flashed Nadina a wicked smile. With all his speed he sprung at Nakash standing next to his leader and, using the same move that worked on the orc yesterday, pulled the orc's sword from its sheath and in one motion swept it up to smack the surprised orc in the face with the hilt. Nakash's head snapped back with a groan and he fell backwards to the ground. Legolas looked smugly at Grimnosh.
"With this perhaps?"
Grimnosh narrowed his eyes at the elf and a feral growl escaped his lips.
"Puts that down," he said evenly.
"Legolas?" Aragorn whispered.
Aragorn knew this could only end badly for his friend. He did not wish to see the elf beaten again.
"Or what?" Legolas taunted.
"Legolas."
"You cannot kill me orc. What to do?"
"Legolas!"
Grimnosh advanced on the elf with a look that plainly pointed out that he didn't care how he was supposed to bring back the elf. After two steps Nadina floated in to block the orc's path.
"Out of the way!"
She gave the orc an irritated look.
"He is only provoking you idiot."
"Then I's intend to gives him his wish."
Grimnosh was taken back when Nadina laughed merrily. She gave the orc a pleased smile.
"You really are entertaining my dear orc. Where is your sense of humor?"
Grimnosh forgot about his anger. He was too confused.
"What?"
Nadina floated over to Legolas.
"Ready to go pretty one?"
Legolas nodded his head. He followed Nadina and as he passed Grimnosh he tossed the sword to the orc. Grimnosh and Aragorn's chin dropped to the floor. The two exited the cave and left the stunned orc and ranger behind. The two remaining exchanged matching looks off disbelief.
****
Aragorn's hands were bound again and everyone exited the cave. The wargs split from the group shortly after leaving and only Radoc remained behind with the orc group. After walking for sometime Legolas finally drifted into Aragorn's sight.
"Legolas?" he called quietly.
The elf turned when he heard his name and dropped back next to the ranger. He did not say anything to Aragorn; he just looked at him. Aragorn broke the awkward silence first.
"Legolas, what are you doing? What is wrong with you? Are you ill? Have you gone mad?"
"No, human I have not. I have finally come to my senses and if you were wise you would to."
Aragorn was appalled by what he was hearing and it made his heart heavy to hear his friend say such a thing. Legolas had never spoke the word human with such disdain before. Aragorn had to briefly shut his eyes to get his emotions under control. Obviously something was terribly wrong with his friend. There had to be a way to bring Legolas to his senses. Aragorn refused to believe otherwise. Every problem had an answer, one just needed to find it and somehow he would.
"It is alright my friend, you are not yourself. We will find a way out of this," he said more to himself.
Legolas smirked at Aragorn.
"What if I do not want to leave here? And how do you expect to get yourself out of this one?"
Aragorn had not missed the 'get yourself' and not 'get us' out of this one. Even though he knew something was wrong with the elf it was becoming difficult not to get angry with him for his aloof behavior.
"At least I still have hope," he snapped before he could stop himself.
Aragorn balled his fists when Legolas responded with mocking laughter.
"Hope? What do expect hope to do for you? It cannot save you and your brothers are not here to save you this time either."
Aragorn tried to remain calm, but his nerves had been severely stretched over the last couple of days and he was losing his temper.
"Do not mention my family, traitor."
Aragorn's temper only fueled Legolas' amusement.
"Traitor? At least I never lied to you."
"What are you talking about?" he practically yelled.
"You promised to find a way out of here already, remember?"
Aragorn closed his eyes again. He is only provoking you. 'Stay calm,' he ordered himself. That statement had hit a nerve and it took considerable control to not fall for the bait. It was only because he did remember promising to get them out of here before anything happened to Legolas. After the swell of anger passed Aragorn was filled with guilt. This situation was entirely his fault. If only he had gotten them out already... Legolas was right. His friend wouldn't have had to suffer and he would not have apparently lost his mind and they would not be having this dreadful conversation. He was also right in that no one was here to save him now.
"I am so sorry, my friend."
Aragorn couldn't bear to look at his friend like this and stared at the ground as he walked. He could not believe this conversation was even happening. It was almost too much to listen to his usually wise and caring friend act so cold towards him.
"Sorry?" Legolas laughed.
"Sorry? Actually I should thank you! I feel more alive than I ever have. Which is probably what you will not be much longer. We are here."
Aragorn looked up to see that they were clearing the trees. He sucked in his breath and stared in amazement at the bare and oppressive landscape to the black ominous tower in the middle of it. He could plainly feel the foulness and evil emanating from the place. Whatever had been plaguing them for days and mustering forces against them awaited in that tower. They had finally come to the heart of it and the end was near. Aragorn could feel it. Whether it was to suffer a horrible fate or by some slight miracle they would be spared he didn't know, but the end was near. He could feel it.
******
TBC...
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They're here! Things have boiled down to the final couple of chapters. Only two chapters left!! The final confrontation is coming up in the next chapter!! I'm shivering in excitement. There are a lot of characters to deal with! Will it be in time to save Legolas? Who will survive???? There are some Grimnosh fans out there so you never know. Cross your fingers. Any thoughts on the final battle would be appreciated. Thank you to everyone who reviewed the last chapter! Keep them coming!
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White wolf - I think you are right and yep he is in trouble. Well, I would feel like I let Glorfindel and the twins down if I didn't make their lives miserable as well. I have a bad habit of picking on elves. The forest is just creepy isn't it? More evil? Nadina? Never. :P Wait a minute, when was she ever good? And Thank You ever so much for putting me on your favorites list!!!!!!! It really makes my day! Did I mention - I love you! And your story! ;)
Karri - Whew! No one got eaten by a warg, yet! Yep, things are looking pretty down. But remember what they say - its always gets the darkest before things totally go black. :P Bummer, still can't see the picture. : (
DiamondD - Hi back. ;) Thank you very much! Yes, it does look like our elf is a bit confused. But the end is coming, for good or for bad so hang on.
MoroTheWolfGod - OK!! Thanks for the review!
tapetum lucidum - It has been awhile. I was convinced you stopped following the story. I am pleased you didn't! Aragorn's rough times haven't even started yet, muah, ah, ah! Ahem, anyway, you may be right. I don't exactly picture Glorfindel as the serving type so, yeah; he had to do something. *Grins* Welcome back. Your reviews are most appreciated!
goblz - Things are heating up, but I am about to light the fire! Not too much longer to go, hang on. ;)
Sprout - I think I sorted everything out. Basically, you want everyone rescued? Well it is down to the final battle and you'll get to see who gets rescued and who doesn't. I hope all the good guys survive! But I warn you; I'm awfully attached to my baddies.
Tithen Min - He's going to be evil forever. Happy? Just kidding, I can't really tell you. :P Thank you, you are so fabulous, do you know that? I love you! Grimnosh does tend to get impatient with me. *Looks around sheepishly* I have to keep a watch out. Niedor? Doh, that's right it is Nienor, I think. *Scratches head* Well... it looks like we are narrowing down to the end. I'm nervous about how things are going to turn out! Oh, don't now if you are an Elladan and Elrohir fan, but... starting a new story staring them and a little Aragorn called "All That is Gold". I should warn you it has kind of a sad beginning, but it will get better. ;) Only to chapter tow and it looks like it is going to be a long ride as well. *Sighs* Will I ever learn?