Disclaimer: I own nothing, except few ideas and mistakes. ;)
plus I'm totally responsible for corrupting the fair, blond elf
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A New Word is Raising
Legolas head was still heavy while he was walking around the dead place. Brown dust covered ruins, there was not even a hint of anything alive except the Elf and his horse. Suddenly Legolas saw something glimmering in scanty light. With caution he stepped closer and closer to the shining thing half buried in the dirt.
It seemed to the Elf that it was a small, dark and flat object. Legolas held his breath - should he touch something that was once in possession of the Dark Lord?
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Legolas stretched his hand and swept away the dust that covered pearl-gray stone. The shining stone was embodied in ancient elvish writing. The fair Elf had decided and he gently touched the stone. The surface felt cool and smooth under his touch. He wrapped his fingers around it and brought the stone to his eyes. It looked rather small and delicate in his pale palm.
He let his fingers wander along the curves of the fine writing in the stone. But his scars reminded him not to stay any longer in this wrecked place. Legolas whistled and his horse came. The Elf put the stone in his leather bag and left the doomed land without hesitation.
"******************************************************************
After a long ride Legolas arrived to the Mirkwood where the news that Gondor gathered a great army of Men found him. Gondor had been preparing for war - Aragorn had strengthened his watches and armed almost all of the Men of Gondor and their new allies.
One of the Elves that came while Legolas was gone informed him that the Men of East and South sent messengers to offer him their support as allies against Gondor.
"Send them back! We shall no more have any links with the mortals, especially not with Sauron's former minions and traitors. Never let them come near the Greenwood!" Legolas raised his voice as he gave the orders to the Elf. The Elf nodded and left quickly.
"We shall win this war alone!" Legolas said aloud.
Then he searched for the stone and put in on the table. It looked harmless and of no importance. Legolas didn't know why he had picked it and even brought it to the Mirkwood. He sighed, some of his latest actions were not rational, but he just had to follow his instincts. He made some steps toward the doors but something made him change his mind and he returned to put the stone back in his pocket.
Legolas called for his lords, they all came within some moments. "My lords we have a war to win," told them the tall Elf in dark travelling coat and with icy cold gaze in his eyes. Legolas had never before looked so dangerous. "Men of Gondor are anxious to perish from our arrows and blades."
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Meanwhile Aragorn, the king of Gondor, hadn't been wasting his time. He gathered his men and many men from East and South that came to him to be his allies. Aragorn didn't trust them nor did he like them but he needed all the help he could get. Behind the walls of Minas Tirith they were waiting upon any sign of approaching Elvish warriors.
Some of the men were looking forward to show these Elves with attitude who they are, but some of men were sad and confused because they had to fight against their former allies. They defeated the Dark Lord side by side and now they were expected to slay each other? Who could understand these kings!
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"Prince, we are ready to ride to the battle," proud looking Elf came to give his commander the message. Legolas bowed his head and put on his battle mail. Then he mounted his horse and he speeded to reach the first lines of fine Elvish army. As they were leaving the Mirkwood a sad song yet full of hope for the help from stars escorted them.
"Gar Estel!" Have hope! The Elves bade farewell with these words on their lips. Light shone in their eyes and their hearts sang along.
The battle for their world, for their lives and for the new era was waiting for them. The Elves were passing silently, Legolas rode in the midst of the leading company and he looked lost in his thoughts. They stopped only after two days to get some rest before the fight.
Elves were sitting near the trees and their song flew to the dark crowns of the tall trees, silver moon and stars were shining in pale light and watched the Firstborns in silence.
Legolas debated their strategy with his lords and now he was resting alone with his forehead pressed against rough stock. Trees always comforted him - their silent and ancient power made his heart tranquil.
No way back, he whispered. He asked Valars not to bring Aragorn before his sword. The Elf wasn't sure what would his reaction be. His plea was that he wouldn't need to cross his steel with Aragorn's. And if he had to fight with his best friend he hoped that Valars would help him to recall his kin and meet his foe with proud.
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After some days the Elvish army silently poured in the field of Gondor. It was a moment before dawn and sun was rising behind the White city. Morning laid before them. A wind blew in their faces, welcoming the Elves to set the Middle earth free. Men shall meet their destiny, but Elvish warriors felt some gloom in their hearts. They couldn't truly rejoice the forthcoming battle with their former allies against the Dark Lord.
Suddenly the Elves heard horns blowing at the walls of Minas Tirith. Men from the White city were standing in lines before the great gates. Aragorn was on his horse and his mail was shining in the rising sun.
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The Elves rode into the battlefield and the sky above two great armies was perfectly blue and cloudless. The air was crispy and fresh. It made blood moving faster in their veins. Morning was greeting the new world that was to be born from the blood and steel. The drums of the Men from East and South rolled louder. The joy of battle didn't reach solemn Elvish faces. To them the battle that lay before them was nothing but a final act of their fight.
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Now both armies were standing and watching their foes to strike. It was a great moment, because never before in the history of the Middle earth did two such proud and courageous armies meet. Men from South and East were eager to finally slain some Elves, but Aragorn forbade to attack without his permission. He was to announce the right moment.
His gaze traveled around the field and Aragorn had decided to give Legolas last chance to prevent this battle that promised nothing but suffer and pain to both sides.
Aragorn called for a messenger to send him to Legolas. The messenger returned soon, because Legolas agreed to meet Aragorn. He ordered the Elves to stay as he rode to their meeting point. It was a grove, few ancient trees actally, that were in the middle of the battlefield.
Legolas arrived first and waited for Aragorn. He came few moments later and hailed the fair Elf. Legolas wore Elvish mail and dark sword by his side. His fair face was still but serious, his eyes were clear and his long blond hair shone in the sun. He looked like fragile, rebelling child. Aragorn's rage toward his friend was redirected to the demon that managed to put this lethal spell in Legolas heart.
"Legolas there is still time to prevent this war. Reconsider the whole situation and let us stop this madness before the battle begins. We had shed too much blood already. Elves and Men. We can find some solution if we think hard and make some compromises, my friend." King of Gondor was worried about his people and even more about his Elvish friend that sat silent on his horse.
Legolas felt his heart ripped in two parts - one was eager to believe Aragorn and to end this war without victims but the other half knew that as soon as Aragorn would be gone or possibly even sooner, the Men would betray the Elves. First, they would start killing each other and finally started war with the Elves. Greed could not be destroyed, not in Men's hearts. For the sake of the Elves and the Men this battle must be won here and now.
"Yes, we both bled for the Middle earth, because of Men's craving for ultimate power. Therefore we shall never leave the Middle earth. But Men will, they bring only destruction and tears to this place. You shall dwell on the islands and enjoy your petty wars if you choose so, it is not our business anymore. We refuse to be caught in your nets of greed. I know that you are not like other Men but even you cannot bridle human greed forever. But if you oblige to fulfill our request we shall return to the Mirkwood and keep a small army to observe your departure. Otherwise you are wasting time," Legolas had sad but determinate expression on his face.
"Damn! Why do you want to fight? Why risk so many lives? I don't know you anymore. It seems that you are finishing what Sauron had started - destruction of Men." Aragorn burst in bitter anger.
Scar on Legolas chest suddenly gave birth to the tearing pain that made the Elf inhale sharply. Black spots appeared before his eyes and Legolas grimaced in penetrating pain.
Aragorn thought that his friend is dying in front of him. "What is wrong?" Aragorn forgot his anger and put his hand on Legolas shoulder to prevent him from falling from his horse. "Are you hurt?" he asked.
"It is just some old wound," Legolas answered and his voice was faint as he raised his bowed head and met Aragorn's concerned eyes.
"I will be all right in no time. We have a battle to fight." Legolas looked at Aragorn's hand that was still resting on his arm. He felt Aragorn's warmth piercing trough his clothes and the Elf tried to stop trembling. He didn't want his friend to feel sorry for him. Legolas had experienced tremendous weakness, but he forced his body with the strength of his will to conquer it.
"The battle is calling us," Legolas almost whispered.
Aragorn tightened his grip for a few moments before he let the Elf go. Legolas sit still as a statue as he rode off.
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The Men of Gondor were getting anxious to start the battle. They hated this kind of hesitation. Nervous hands were resting on swords and bows. Their palms were getting shaky and sweaty.
The Elves on the other hand controlled themselves formidably. They were still while waiting for the right moment to strike. To the Men they seemed like a mighty and mysterious army of statues that would come to life after the right spell. And then they would be elegant yet dangerous predators. To perish from Elvish weapon was something else that to die from Orcs.
The Men from South and East were excited. Finally there was another opportunity to slay those wicked unnatural beings. Sauron taught them well to hate the Elves from the bottom of their evil hearts. To massacre as many Elves as possible was their only aim.
The Elves could feel different emotions that were radiating from the Men - mostly hate, rage, fear, confusion and again hate all mixed into chaos.
Legolas was feverish and dizzy. Faonor, one of the Elvish lords, asked him in low voice if he was all right. "Yes, I am fine. We shall wait for their attack," Legolas decided. "Some want to kill us like wild beasts," was Faonor observation when Southern drums spoiled the morning silence.
Then a single sparrow flew above their heads and the drums were silenced. It was a moment of complete stillness, air was thick and frozen. Just like before the thunder.
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"The stone, use the stone, the stone..." these words kept rolling in Legolas mind. He didn't have the slightest idea how to use it but he pulled the stone out of the pocket. Strange engravings were gloving in the color of flames. Unknown power was born in Legolas heart, he could feel the might of his will raising higher than the sky. Some powerful magic was running through his veins and Legolas realized that he couldn't allow these filthy low beings to kill the Elves. He would spare Aragorn and maybe some Men of Gondor, but Men of South and East deserved no mercy.
Therefore Legolas didn't want to resist the temptation and he looked at the words cut in the stone. He read the unfamiliar writing and as he had been proceeding from one letter to another everything around him disappeared in fog. Legolas was alone in some empty place, walls were not to be seen anywhere near.
He could read and understand words written in stone:
***PLAGUE UPON THE SPIRITS OF FOES - SWIFT WIND IS BORN FROM THY BLOOD TO BRING THE WINGED DOOM TO THE HOUSE OF THOSE WHO CHERISH GREED.***
The weight of the spell fell on Legolas shoulders, his headache was paralyzing and blood trickled from his nose. Some blood dripped on the stone. Legolas heard the leaves whispering although he couldn't see any trees and soon great and menacing murmuring raised. Strange mists vaporized from the stone and formed grey, thin clouds.
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When Legolas returned from his vision he heard screams of terror and madness in the field. The Elves were watching the Men that were rolling on the ground as if they were set on fire, some were fighting the invisible enemies and some attacking their friends. The Men forgot the presence of the Elves.
Grey clouds that were stretching just a bit above the ground caused this chaos on the battle field. Aragorn was staring at the disaster before his eyes, he was speechless. The King of Gondor saw his Men killing Men from South and East and they were slaughtering the Men of Gondor. Warriors were laying on the ground, bleeding and cursing each other.
"Withdrawal! Behind the walls!" Aragorn yelled as he realized that these grey clouds are some kind of evil and powerful magic. The Men who could still use their mind rushed in the direction of the city but some were to slow and the grey mist engulfed them.
Aragorn could still heard their screams as the strange fog poisoned their minds and shortly after that their bodies to slay their friends. They were dying like flies, dozen after dozen. Behind the walls Aragorn climb up and there, before his eyes laid tremendous and horrific scene - dead bodies of his warriors twisted in agony all over the battle field. A fair share of his army that was still alive was on a way to madness. Others were full of rage and demanding revenge.
Aragorn's heart stopped for a moment as the pain rocked through his body. He slipped on his knees and broke his sword. His head was bent on his chest and his hair waved in the wind. After long moment he raised his head, looking older than ever and said in cracked voice. "I have to send a messenger at once!"
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Aragorn felt cool hands on his forehead. "Arwen," he whispered and took her hands in his and pressed his lips on her tender skin.
"New darkness disguised in light has come, I feel it all around us. It is a magic of long forgotten times, before our world was born. My father must cry if he can see what is happening here," Arwen said silently. Aragorn stood up and looked in her beautiful eyes.
"I lost this war, Arwen. We shall leave our land in order to survive. We have to move to the islands if we don't want to perish in madness. I have to send a messenger to Legolas immediately. I don't want to lose more of my men."
"I will go to Legolas with your message to stop this tragedy. Mist has no power over me. I am going now - we cannot waste any precious moments," Arwen volunteered. The grey clouds were raising before the walls of Minas Tirith.
Aragorn nodded and kissed his Queen.
"Hurry and come back soon!"
Arwen ran down the stairs, she mounted her horse and flew through the gates.
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Legolas removed himself to the small wood and dismounted there. He was standing alone near the tall tree. "Subside!" he ordered and grey mist was fading away. The stone in his palm felt empty and light, Legolas was sure that he used the power.
Arwen soon reached the Elves. They were resting under the great trees and didn't looked surprise when she arrived.
"Take me to the prince of Mirkwood I brought him message from the King of Gondor," Arwen asked the nearest Elf. He called for Faonor to take her to Legolas.
"My prince, a messenger from Gondor!" Faonor told Legolas and left them alone.
Arwen stopped her horse before Legolas. "I bring you words from the King of Gondor," she said in cold voice.
"Yes, the Queen of Gondor, I am listening to the message," Legolas slightly bowed his head. There was heavy fatigue on his face.
"The King of Gondor and his people shall leave the Middle earth and settle on the islands in few days time. He asks you to give him a week to prepare everything for our ultimate departure. And he asks you to stop this poisonous mist that causes madness among his men."
Legolas nodded in approval. "I had already stopped it. Tell the King of Gondor that he has a week from tomorrow to arrange everything. And these clouds preserved many lives," he met Arwen's angry gaze.
"On your side, yes," she snapped. Arwen left without saying goodbye.
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"We won, my lord," Faonor said in proud voice.
"Announce gathering for the lords!" Legolas gave orders to Faonor.
When they gathered, he informed them that they should divide - "I shall stay here with some warriors to watch their departure and the rest of you can return to Mirkwood and other places and spread the good news about our victory. Do you agree?"
The lords said yes. Not all of them were approving that Legolas used some powerful magic they didn't know, but they trusted him and reminded silent. The next day one group went to Mirkwood.
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Meanwhile, Aragorn had to come to his Men and told them about the great forthcoming journey to their new home - the islands.
People were standing in silence, only few Men rebelled, they demanded revenge. Others left the gathering and started packing with eyes dimmed with bitter tears.
Coming back to the royal hall Aragorn sat down in his chair with his dark thoughts. Arwen went to the people to encourage and comfort them. She was a perfect queen, Aragorn smiled. The only ray of light in these days of gloom.
The doors opened a bit and dark figure slipped in.
"I said that I don't want to be bothered!" Aragorn grunted.
"I know my lord. And I ask for your forgiveness but I have to show you something rather important," a very old man came closer. He had long white beard and he wore grey clothes - it reminded Aragorn of Gandolf. The old man was much smaller than the White wizard. And he was obviously a human.
Aragorn stood up and approached the old man.
"So, what news you bring to your king in the dark our?"
"My mother was a healer and she knew many secrets from before the time," the old man started. "For many years my family was bound to guard this book because it was said that this is one of the greatest treasures of mankind."
Aragorn got interested, he looked in the old man's eyes - they were vivid and his features were kind although his face was wrinkled as if he carried countless years.
"My lord have you ever heard about the Lomiotar, also named the *elvish stone*?"
"No, never in my life. And I lived with the Elves but they never mentioned it. Lomiotar?" it surprised Aragorn.
"It was made before the time but no one knows whose work it is. It works only in the hands of an Elf, I don't know how and why, but it is the most powerful thing in the Middle earth. Even Sauron never heard of the Lomiotar. It was made even before the time of Morgoth. This stone conquered us, my lord." The old man told Aragorn.
"Yes, but I doubt that this is all you wanted to tell me. If you know more, make it haste, I don't have time for stories," Aragorn said.
"It is a rule of the endless time that every poison has a cure, listen to this -
***WHEN THE ELVISH STONE RELEASE ITS DOOM AND SPREADS ITS WINGS - THEN IN THE HOUR OF THE DARKEST SHADOW AN EVENING STAR WITH NIENNA'S GIFT AND ALL THE TEARS CRIED OUT SHALL BE THE MEN'S HOPE FULFILED.*** "
Aragorn frowned - he tried to remember something about Nienna's gift.
"You are sure that this is not Arwen?" he asked the old man.
"I am sure it is not her. Her life is sad, but it is not Nienna's gift," was the old man's answer.
"Nienna's gift, Nienna's gift," rolled in Aragorn's head and almost drove him crazy.
"I know! That girl from the Houses of healing! Find and bring Gimli!" Aragorn hurried to the guards and sent them to find Gimli.
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Gimli finally came. He was sad and unusual quiet.
"I see that the news about new war were not some bad joke," he said as he hailed Aragorn.
"What happened to our friend?" Gimli sighed in deep gloom. Not even the sight of beautiful and kind Queen of Gondor could make him smile.
"Gimli, maybe we can prevent some of these things. It seems that the girl who came with you to Gondor has something to do with the prophecy which can save us. So let's not abandon all of our hopes. I don't know yet how she will help us but we have to find her. Can you recall where she lives?"
Gimli was thinking hard and frowned. Then a small smile illuminated his face. "Her name is Vesper and Legolas met her by some woods and brought her to me. We were a merry company on our way to Gondor, she was sad from time to time, but when we asked her why, she answered that her entire life was nothing but Nienna's gift. And then she said something we could laugh at. Nice girl, though. Then the Orcs captured her and held her in Barad Dûr with Legolas. He saved her and after she had healed she returned to the South, I guess." He shrugged.
"Since she has no family nor friends she straddles around a lot, I'm afraid. But I'm sure she said she would return to the South, to be with her trees and streams, that sounded to Elvish to me," Gimli concluded his story.
Aragorn said with hope in his voice: "Send our best men to the South - they have to find her! She is probably our only hope! Vesper."
"Bring Vesper!" words echoed through the halls of the tower.
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Legolas crossed the border, he sure did.
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A New Word is Raising
Legolas head was still heavy while he was walking around the dead place. Brown dust covered ruins, there was not even a hint of anything alive except the Elf and his horse. Suddenly Legolas saw something glimmering in scanty light. With caution he stepped closer and closer to the shining thing half buried in the dirt.
It seemed to the Elf that it was a small, dark and flat object. Legolas held his breath - should he touch something that was once in possession of the Dark Lord?
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Legolas stretched his hand and swept away the dust that covered pearl-gray stone. The shining stone was embodied in ancient elvish writing. The fair Elf had decided and he gently touched the stone. The surface felt cool and smooth under his touch. He wrapped his fingers around it and brought the stone to his eyes. It looked rather small and delicate in his pale palm.
He let his fingers wander along the curves of the fine writing in the stone. But his scars reminded him not to stay any longer in this wrecked place. Legolas whistled and his horse came. The Elf put the stone in his leather bag and left the doomed land without hesitation.
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After a long ride Legolas arrived to the Mirkwood where the news that Gondor gathered a great army of Men found him. Gondor had been preparing for war - Aragorn had strengthened his watches and armed almost all of the Men of Gondor and their new allies.
One of the Elves that came while Legolas was gone informed him that the Men of East and South sent messengers to offer him their support as allies against Gondor.
"Send them back! We shall no more have any links with the mortals, especially not with Sauron's former minions and traitors. Never let them come near the Greenwood!" Legolas raised his voice as he gave the orders to the Elf. The Elf nodded and left quickly.
"We shall win this war alone!" Legolas said aloud.
Then he searched for the stone and put in on the table. It looked harmless and of no importance. Legolas didn't know why he had picked it and even brought it to the Mirkwood. He sighed, some of his latest actions were not rational, but he just had to follow his instincts. He made some steps toward the doors but something made him change his mind and he returned to put the stone back in his pocket.
Legolas called for his lords, they all came within some moments. "My lords we have a war to win," told them the tall Elf in dark travelling coat and with icy cold gaze in his eyes. Legolas had never before looked so dangerous. "Men of Gondor are anxious to perish from our arrows and blades."
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Meanwhile Aragorn, the king of Gondor, hadn't been wasting his time. He gathered his men and many men from East and South that came to him to be his allies. Aragorn didn't trust them nor did he like them but he needed all the help he could get. Behind the walls of Minas Tirith they were waiting upon any sign of approaching Elvish warriors.
Some of the men were looking forward to show these Elves with attitude who they are, but some of men were sad and confused because they had to fight against their former allies. They defeated the Dark Lord side by side and now they were expected to slay each other? Who could understand these kings!
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"Prince, we are ready to ride to the battle," proud looking Elf came to give his commander the message. Legolas bowed his head and put on his battle mail. Then he mounted his horse and he speeded to reach the first lines of fine Elvish army. As they were leaving the Mirkwood a sad song yet full of hope for the help from stars escorted them.
"Gar Estel!" Have hope! The Elves bade farewell with these words on their lips. Light shone in their eyes and their hearts sang along.
The battle for their world, for their lives and for the new era was waiting for them. The Elves were passing silently, Legolas rode in the midst of the leading company and he looked lost in his thoughts. They stopped only after two days to get some rest before the fight.
Elves were sitting near the trees and their song flew to the dark crowns of the tall trees, silver moon and stars were shining in pale light and watched the Firstborns in silence.
Legolas debated their strategy with his lords and now he was resting alone with his forehead pressed against rough stock. Trees always comforted him - their silent and ancient power made his heart tranquil.
No way back, he whispered. He asked Valars not to bring Aragorn before his sword. The Elf wasn't sure what would his reaction be. His plea was that he wouldn't need to cross his steel with Aragorn's. And if he had to fight with his best friend he hoped that Valars would help him to recall his kin and meet his foe with proud.
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After some days the Elvish army silently poured in the field of Gondor. It was a moment before dawn and sun was rising behind the White city. Morning laid before them. A wind blew in their faces, welcoming the Elves to set the Middle earth free. Men shall meet their destiny, but Elvish warriors felt some gloom in their hearts. They couldn't truly rejoice the forthcoming battle with their former allies against the Dark Lord.
Suddenly the Elves heard horns blowing at the walls of Minas Tirith. Men from the White city were standing in lines before the great gates. Aragorn was on his horse and his mail was shining in the rising sun.
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The Elves rode into the battlefield and the sky above two great armies was perfectly blue and cloudless. The air was crispy and fresh. It made blood moving faster in their veins. Morning was greeting the new world that was to be born from the blood and steel. The drums of the Men from East and South rolled louder. The joy of battle didn't reach solemn Elvish faces. To them the battle that lay before them was nothing but a final act of their fight.
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Now both armies were standing and watching their foes to strike. It was a great moment, because never before in the history of the Middle earth did two such proud and courageous armies meet. Men from South and East were eager to finally slain some Elves, but Aragorn forbade to attack without his permission. He was to announce the right moment.
His gaze traveled around the field and Aragorn had decided to give Legolas last chance to prevent this battle that promised nothing but suffer and pain to both sides.
Aragorn called for a messenger to send him to Legolas. The messenger returned soon, because Legolas agreed to meet Aragorn. He ordered the Elves to stay as he rode to their meeting point. It was a grove, few ancient trees actally, that were in the middle of the battlefield.
Legolas arrived first and waited for Aragorn. He came few moments later and hailed the fair Elf. Legolas wore Elvish mail and dark sword by his side. His fair face was still but serious, his eyes were clear and his long blond hair shone in the sun. He looked like fragile, rebelling child. Aragorn's rage toward his friend was redirected to the demon that managed to put this lethal spell in Legolas heart.
"Legolas there is still time to prevent this war. Reconsider the whole situation and let us stop this madness before the battle begins. We had shed too much blood already. Elves and Men. We can find some solution if we think hard and make some compromises, my friend." King of Gondor was worried about his people and even more about his Elvish friend that sat silent on his horse.
Legolas felt his heart ripped in two parts - one was eager to believe Aragorn and to end this war without victims but the other half knew that as soon as Aragorn would be gone or possibly even sooner, the Men would betray the Elves. First, they would start killing each other and finally started war with the Elves. Greed could not be destroyed, not in Men's hearts. For the sake of the Elves and the Men this battle must be won here and now.
"Yes, we both bled for the Middle earth, because of Men's craving for ultimate power. Therefore we shall never leave the Middle earth. But Men will, they bring only destruction and tears to this place. You shall dwell on the islands and enjoy your petty wars if you choose so, it is not our business anymore. We refuse to be caught in your nets of greed. I know that you are not like other Men but even you cannot bridle human greed forever. But if you oblige to fulfill our request we shall return to the Mirkwood and keep a small army to observe your departure. Otherwise you are wasting time," Legolas had sad but determinate expression on his face.
"Damn! Why do you want to fight? Why risk so many lives? I don't know you anymore. It seems that you are finishing what Sauron had started - destruction of Men." Aragorn burst in bitter anger.
Scar on Legolas chest suddenly gave birth to the tearing pain that made the Elf inhale sharply. Black spots appeared before his eyes and Legolas grimaced in penetrating pain.
Aragorn thought that his friend is dying in front of him. "What is wrong?" Aragorn forgot his anger and put his hand on Legolas shoulder to prevent him from falling from his horse. "Are you hurt?" he asked.
"It is just some old wound," Legolas answered and his voice was faint as he raised his bowed head and met Aragorn's concerned eyes.
"I will be all right in no time. We have a battle to fight." Legolas looked at Aragorn's hand that was still resting on his arm. He felt Aragorn's warmth piercing trough his clothes and the Elf tried to stop trembling. He didn't want his friend to feel sorry for him. Legolas had experienced tremendous weakness, but he forced his body with the strength of his will to conquer it.
"The battle is calling us," Legolas almost whispered.
Aragorn tightened his grip for a few moments before he let the Elf go. Legolas sit still as a statue as he rode off.
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The Men of Gondor were getting anxious to start the battle. They hated this kind of hesitation. Nervous hands were resting on swords and bows. Their palms were getting shaky and sweaty.
The Elves on the other hand controlled themselves formidably. They were still while waiting for the right moment to strike. To the Men they seemed like a mighty and mysterious army of statues that would come to life after the right spell. And then they would be elegant yet dangerous predators. To perish from Elvish weapon was something else that to die from Orcs.
The Men from South and East were excited. Finally there was another opportunity to slay those wicked unnatural beings. Sauron taught them well to hate the Elves from the bottom of their evil hearts. To massacre as many Elves as possible was their only aim.
The Elves could feel different emotions that were radiating from the Men - mostly hate, rage, fear, confusion and again hate all mixed into chaos.
Legolas was feverish and dizzy. Faonor, one of the Elvish lords, asked him in low voice if he was all right. "Yes, I am fine. We shall wait for their attack," Legolas decided. "Some want to kill us like wild beasts," was Faonor observation when Southern drums spoiled the morning silence.
Then a single sparrow flew above their heads and the drums were silenced. It was a moment of complete stillness, air was thick and frozen. Just like before the thunder.
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"The stone, use the stone, the stone..." these words kept rolling in Legolas mind. He didn't have the slightest idea how to use it but he pulled the stone out of the pocket. Strange engravings were gloving in the color of flames. Unknown power was born in Legolas heart, he could feel the might of his will raising higher than the sky. Some powerful magic was running through his veins and Legolas realized that he couldn't allow these filthy low beings to kill the Elves. He would spare Aragorn and maybe some Men of Gondor, but Men of South and East deserved no mercy.
Therefore Legolas didn't want to resist the temptation and he looked at the words cut in the stone. He read the unfamiliar writing and as he had been proceeding from one letter to another everything around him disappeared in fog. Legolas was alone in some empty place, walls were not to be seen anywhere near.
He could read and understand words written in stone:
***PLAGUE UPON THE SPIRITS OF FOES - SWIFT WIND IS BORN FROM THY BLOOD TO BRING THE WINGED DOOM TO THE HOUSE OF THOSE WHO CHERISH GREED.***
The weight of the spell fell on Legolas shoulders, his headache was paralyzing and blood trickled from his nose. Some blood dripped on the stone. Legolas heard the leaves whispering although he couldn't see any trees and soon great and menacing murmuring raised. Strange mists vaporized from the stone and formed grey, thin clouds.
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When Legolas returned from his vision he heard screams of terror and madness in the field. The Elves were watching the Men that were rolling on the ground as if they were set on fire, some were fighting the invisible enemies and some attacking their friends. The Men forgot the presence of the Elves.
Grey clouds that were stretching just a bit above the ground caused this chaos on the battle field. Aragorn was staring at the disaster before his eyes, he was speechless. The King of Gondor saw his Men killing Men from South and East and they were slaughtering the Men of Gondor. Warriors were laying on the ground, bleeding and cursing each other.
"Withdrawal! Behind the walls!" Aragorn yelled as he realized that these grey clouds are some kind of evil and powerful magic. The Men who could still use their mind rushed in the direction of the city but some were to slow and the grey mist engulfed them.
Aragorn could still heard their screams as the strange fog poisoned their minds and shortly after that their bodies to slay their friends. They were dying like flies, dozen after dozen. Behind the walls Aragorn climb up and there, before his eyes laid tremendous and horrific scene - dead bodies of his warriors twisted in agony all over the battle field. A fair share of his army that was still alive was on a way to madness. Others were full of rage and demanding revenge.
Aragorn's heart stopped for a moment as the pain rocked through his body. He slipped on his knees and broke his sword. His head was bent on his chest and his hair waved in the wind. After long moment he raised his head, looking older than ever and said in cracked voice. "I have to send a messenger at once!"
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Aragorn felt cool hands on his forehead. "Arwen," he whispered and took her hands in his and pressed his lips on her tender skin.
"New darkness disguised in light has come, I feel it all around us. It is a magic of long forgotten times, before our world was born. My father must cry if he can see what is happening here," Arwen said silently. Aragorn stood up and looked in her beautiful eyes.
"I lost this war, Arwen. We shall leave our land in order to survive. We have to move to the islands if we don't want to perish in madness. I have to send a messenger to Legolas immediately. I don't want to lose more of my men."
"I will go to Legolas with your message to stop this tragedy. Mist has no power over me. I am going now - we cannot waste any precious moments," Arwen volunteered. The grey clouds were raising before the walls of Minas Tirith.
Aragorn nodded and kissed his Queen.
"Hurry and come back soon!"
Arwen ran down the stairs, she mounted her horse and flew through the gates.
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Legolas removed himself to the small wood and dismounted there. He was standing alone near the tall tree. "Subside!" he ordered and grey mist was fading away. The stone in his palm felt empty and light, Legolas was sure that he used the power.
Arwen soon reached the Elves. They were resting under the great trees and didn't looked surprise when she arrived.
"Take me to the prince of Mirkwood I brought him message from the King of Gondor," Arwen asked the nearest Elf. He called for Faonor to take her to Legolas.
"My prince, a messenger from Gondor!" Faonor told Legolas and left them alone.
Arwen stopped her horse before Legolas. "I bring you words from the King of Gondor," she said in cold voice.
"Yes, the Queen of Gondor, I am listening to the message," Legolas slightly bowed his head. There was heavy fatigue on his face.
"The King of Gondor and his people shall leave the Middle earth and settle on the islands in few days time. He asks you to give him a week to prepare everything for our ultimate departure. And he asks you to stop this poisonous mist that causes madness among his men."
Legolas nodded in approval. "I had already stopped it. Tell the King of Gondor that he has a week from tomorrow to arrange everything. And these clouds preserved many lives," he met Arwen's angry gaze.
"On your side, yes," she snapped. Arwen left without saying goodbye.
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"We won, my lord," Faonor said in proud voice.
"Announce gathering for the lords!" Legolas gave orders to Faonor.
When they gathered, he informed them that they should divide - "I shall stay here with some warriors to watch their departure and the rest of you can return to Mirkwood and other places and spread the good news about our victory. Do you agree?"
The lords said yes. Not all of them were approving that Legolas used some powerful magic they didn't know, but they trusted him and reminded silent. The next day one group went to Mirkwood.
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Meanwhile, Aragorn had to come to his Men and told them about the great forthcoming journey to their new home - the islands.
People were standing in silence, only few Men rebelled, they demanded revenge. Others left the gathering and started packing with eyes dimmed with bitter tears.
Coming back to the royal hall Aragorn sat down in his chair with his dark thoughts. Arwen went to the people to encourage and comfort them. She was a perfect queen, Aragorn smiled. The only ray of light in these days of gloom.
The doors opened a bit and dark figure slipped in.
"I said that I don't want to be bothered!" Aragorn grunted.
"I know my lord. And I ask for your forgiveness but I have to show you something rather important," a very old man came closer. He had long white beard and he wore grey clothes - it reminded Aragorn of Gandolf. The old man was much smaller than the White wizard. And he was obviously a human.
Aragorn stood up and approached the old man.
"So, what news you bring to your king in the dark our?"
"My mother was a healer and she knew many secrets from before the time," the old man started. "For many years my family was bound to guard this book because it was said that this is one of the greatest treasures of mankind."
Aragorn got interested, he looked in the old man's eyes - they were vivid and his features were kind although his face was wrinkled as if he carried countless years.
"My lord have you ever heard about the Lomiotar, also named the *elvish stone*?"
"No, never in my life. And I lived with the Elves but they never mentioned it. Lomiotar?" it surprised Aragorn.
"It was made before the time but no one knows whose work it is. It works only in the hands of an Elf, I don't know how and why, but it is the most powerful thing in the Middle earth. Even Sauron never heard of the Lomiotar. It was made even before the time of Morgoth. This stone conquered us, my lord." The old man told Aragorn.
"Yes, but I doubt that this is all you wanted to tell me. If you know more, make it haste, I don't have time for stories," Aragorn said.
"It is a rule of the endless time that every poison has a cure, listen to this -
***WHEN THE ELVISH STONE RELEASE ITS DOOM AND SPREADS ITS WINGS - THEN IN THE HOUR OF THE DARKEST SHADOW AN EVENING STAR WITH NIENNA'S GIFT AND ALL THE TEARS CRIED OUT SHALL BE THE MEN'S HOPE FULFILED.*** "
Aragorn frowned - he tried to remember something about Nienna's gift.
"You are sure that this is not Arwen?" he asked the old man.
"I am sure it is not her. Her life is sad, but it is not Nienna's gift," was the old man's answer.
"Nienna's gift, Nienna's gift," rolled in Aragorn's head and almost drove him crazy.
"I know! That girl from the Houses of healing! Find and bring Gimli!" Aragorn hurried to the guards and sent them to find Gimli.
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Gimli finally came. He was sad and unusual quiet.
"I see that the news about new war were not some bad joke," he said as he hailed Aragorn.
"What happened to our friend?" Gimli sighed in deep gloom. Not even the sight of beautiful and kind Queen of Gondor could make him smile.
"Gimli, maybe we can prevent some of these things. It seems that the girl who came with you to Gondor has something to do with the prophecy which can save us. So let's not abandon all of our hopes. I don't know yet how she will help us but we have to find her. Can you recall where she lives?"
Gimli was thinking hard and frowned. Then a small smile illuminated his face. "Her name is Vesper and Legolas met her by some woods and brought her to me. We were a merry company on our way to Gondor, she was sad from time to time, but when we asked her why, she answered that her entire life was nothing but Nienna's gift. And then she said something we could laugh at. Nice girl, though. Then the Orcs captured her and held her in Barad Dûr with Legolas. He saved her and after she had healed she returned to the South, I guess." He shrugged.
"Since she has no family nor friends she straddles around a lot, I'm afraid. But I'm sure she said she would return to the South, to be with her trees and streams, that sounded to Elvish to me," Gimli concluded his story.
Aragorn said with hope in his voice: "Send our best men to the South - they have to find her! She is probably our only hope! Vesper."
"Bring Vesper!" words echoed through the halls of the tower.
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Legolas crossed the border, he sure did.