Disclaimer: I own nothing except few twisted ideas and mistakes ;)
*big thanks* to *musicgrl*, *Andmetwen*, *tbris* for your reviews and that you stuck with me for awhile :)
plus: I got my first flame! (accused to be marysuish - ok, I admit that I'm twisted but not *SO* twisted! FLS!)
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Ok because this last chap is a bit longer I've decided to post it in two parts (otherwise would take too long)
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A CHILD OF DEAD SHADOWS SHALL BECOME A LIGHT (part 1)
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As Legolas felt her pain, shame and despair and he licked her salty tears he claimed her once more before he reached his dark release. He came panting in her sweaty skin and rested on her surrendered body enjoying in his twisted satisfaction at her tarnished soul.
How could he bring her such cruelty, when he looked so pure and good in the warm lights of the few candles? Was she doomed too? Doomed to be the object of his dark obsession? And never find some peace.
But the only answer Vesper had ever received was the silence of the night.
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Morning brought new day - and the day was Vesper's battlefield - she tried to forget what happened the previous night. She spent whole day huddled in the corner by the window and hanging on the memories of her early childhood. How she used to listen the stories her mama was telling her and how father brought her Aldebaran, the most beautiful beast she has ever seen. They were a happy family.
.......Until that day, the day when mother left them. Left her without a word. Destroyed their family for the love of the dark Elf. The Elf she died for. .......
Elvish whore... harsh words said in sweet, melodic voice drove her crazy. They were echoing in her head, they grew louder and then sink into the mere whisper.
"No, it is not me, it is not my mother, is it not my mother...it is not, it is not..." tears were running down her cheeks and she hid her face from the sunlight. She wished to be with her family. Dead like them.
Legolas caught her words from afar and tensed for a brief moment. Then he mentally slapped himself and forced a mocking smile on his face. He can do what he wants. He is the chosen one.
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As the time passed by, weeks matured to months, and Vesper wasn't sure how long had she been staying there in Greenwood. She lost her track of time. She lost many things. First her faith. Then her hope. Along with the pride. At last she lost her will to resist. Her keeper was satisfied as he saw that the light from her eyes was gone without a smallest trace. He could easily snap her slender neck in a breath. She would be thankful. But he didn't. he needed someone to make him fell alive.
Because every night after the dusk Legolas came. At first he violently claimed her and left her soon after that like he would feel guilty watching her fresh bruises and cuts. Every now and than he showed strange and unwanted tenderness toward her. That was the part of her torture that Vesper could not get used to.
Because cuts and bruises hurt and made her forget other things - him inside her body and his moans of pleasure in her slick skin.
But soft kisses and his caressing hands made her forget who he was and who she was. And the words *elvish whore* echoed inside her head at every gentle touch he made.
And even stranger things happened - like her body would adjust to Legolas' twisted ministration and when he didn't come she felt hateful weirdness. Like expectation what will happen next.
Sometimes he still came with cruel tricks that made her tremble and revolt. He enjoyed and even more, he wasn't shy about showing her *how* much he enjoyed her.
"You are a part of me now. A part of me that makes me feel alive. See, Elves are too fragile to survive such things, but you mortals can endure more - I can break you and use you but you will survive. That's a great thing. Maybe deep inside you are twisted and not so different from me. It must be in your blood - craving for Elves. Women in your family had this thing for Elves, didn't they? Your mother did, for sure." Then he kissed Vesper and wished her good night.
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That morning after the night like many before Vesper opened her eyes and blinked because of the bright light that shone on her bed.
She stiffened as she realised that she wasn't alone. Legolas' head was still resting on her shoulders and his hands were wrapped around her waist in possessively manner.
Vesper instinctively pushed him away and moved to the edge of the bed. She pulled the blanked around her thin body.
Legolas lazily opened his blue eyes and smiled as he dragged her in his arms again.
"Good morning. Did you sleep well? I did." He yawned and the golden locks of his hair made him look so innocent and neat. One would easily be mistaken that he is only young, fair and harmless Elf. One lock dangled on his face and he looked so boyish and vulnerable that Vesper held still for a few moments. Maybe it was all a nightmare.
His blue eyes were sparkling in the morning sun, the curtains slowly waved in light breeze that was bringing the smell of flowers in the room and green woods were whispering.
It was like she was trapped in some kind of dreams, nice dreams if she could completely forget past few months. Legolas was still looking at her and smiling. But Vesper's stomach was turning and she leaned on the pillow. She stayed still for couple of minutes and waited for Legolas to leave and let her go. Because he should be gone for hours. He always left while it was dark. Always. Even a sick routine is still a routine, she thought bitterly.
Suddenly a sharp pain was tearing her in her abdomen, cramps that forced her to breath shallowly and cold sweat made her body slick.
She let a cry of pain and grabbed the sheets as that could ease her pain. Legolas was surprised and let her go immediately.
Then he frowned and looked at her. He saw her squirming body beside him and he straightened himself. He touched her shoulders when jolts of building pain went through her small body.
"What is wrong?" Legolas asked her with sharp voice.
"Pain ... burning pain ..." Vesper muttered and muffed her scream in the pillow. Her body was covered in cold sweat. Another strangled sound came from her throat, her hands still grabbing tightly for support, and she threw her head back onto the pillow. The pain was overwhelming. She felt like her body had been torn in two from the inside.
Legolas felt her pain as he was holding her but it wasn't in his power to prevent it. That was odd. He sensed weird force inside her body, ancient and unique fighting to be set free. He didn't know how to heal mortals so he waited till her ache subdued and left her there.
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Later he called Faonor and sent him to bring her whatever she needed. He came back and informed him that Vesper was sleeping. Legolas nodded and thought that maybe he did exhaust her too much. After all, he kept her there and used her during past months. He would go this night and check if she better. She was not supposed to die like that. Her destiny belongs to him only.
Headache took him by surprise and he fell on his knees.
"YOU SHOULD NOT BE A WEAK CREATURE, BE ASHAMED! DO NOT BE GOOD TO A FOE! BE AWARE, YOU ARE THE CHOSEN ONE. LET HER DIE IN BURNING PAIN." Strange words hit Elf's ears with sudden blow.
Legolas felt something warm on his lip and he pressed his hand on that place. As he held his hand before eyes he saw his blood - it was dark red, almost black and smelled as ashes. He felt cold crawling up his spine but fiercely shook his head and stood up. He put his hand into the fountain full of clear water that washed blood away. He is strong - no voice shall ever bother him again or command him. If he wants to cure Vesper he will do that. And he will to that for his own pleasure.
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Vesper suddenly woke up from her slumber because she felt sharp pain building in her abdomen, the same pain that attacked her in the morning and later disappeared as she welcomed sleep. She almost crawled to the window hoping that fresh air will make the pain go away.
But the pain drew dark green circles before Vesper's eyes and strange buzzing filled her ears. In vain she was trying to stand up and go back to bed. She had to sit down immediately.
The agony lasted less than quarter of hour but it exhausted her completely. She wanted to lie down in bed but her jelly-like legs didn't obey her. Vesper managed to pull herself to the wall and leaned her sweaty forehead to the cold stonewall.
As the night came Legolas was walking to the Vesper's room. He was determined not to be concerned for her - he claims her every night and this one will be no exception. She belongs to him. All of her.
When Legolas entered the room he found her sitting by the window and white as the first time he abused her.
He sensed her physical pain and exhaustion that hit his every nerve. Never before did he feel such weariness as today. She didn't even care that he was here. She had darkish circles under her eyes and she sat there lifeless as a rug doll. But this time there was no satisfaction for him, because it wasn't him who induced that suffering.
Legolas kneeled beside her and Vesper only raised her eyes to look at him - she didn't move. The Elf pressed his hand on her forehead and a slight, hardly noticeable frown was plastered across his fair face.
Legolas put one of his hands under her knees and his other hand around her small shoulders and lifted her. She was so light. Vesper couldn't resist even if she wanted. He placed her on the pillows and held her face in his hands. The Elf carefully scanned every inch of her face, staring in her eyes for long moments. He couldn't find what was wrong. It wasn't him, he saw that. It had to be that weird force. Yet he was the most powerful being in this place. How could anyone be mightier than him? And why was this magic dwelling in her? She was weak.
Vesper saw dime concern burning in his eyes as he leaned over her and stopped close to her face.
Not tonight, she whispered inside her head. I cannot bare any more pain. She couldn't resist. She needed sleep, deep slumber to forget the pain. But he didn't care for that, she knew. She closed her eyes as if that could prevent the pain he was to induce to her.
Vesper was waiting for his arms to grab her and his weight to pin her down and force her body into more pain. After unusually long moments she slowly lifted her heavy eyelids while she was struck with the recognition of being alone in the room. Legolas had disappeared without a word.
And as the night grew on she thought that he would come back but he didn't come. A miracle.
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Down the corridor, in his room, Legolas was in vain trying to catch some sleep. It didn't come. He knew that something unknown and undefined crawled into the Greenwood the Great. And it had chosen Vesper. Was it trying to kill her? But why? He could do that himself. Or could through her the force endanger the Age of the Firstborns?
After the restless night Legolas got up at the very first sign of pale dawn and he put on his clothes and went outside - it was time for his morning practice with the sword. Later, he decided, he would call Faonor and give him orders to find Gelion, one of the eldest Wooden elves that still dwelt in the Middle Earth. He knew she didn't like him and the magic he used to save the Elves. But she knew great deal of all kinds of magic.
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"You called for me, my lord," Faonor came to the place were Legolas was practising.
"I did, Faonor. Go and find Gelion, tell her that I want to talk to her. But no sooner than in the evening. Take her to Vesper before we meet. But Gelion has to swear that the secret is safe with her. Go now!"
Faonor bowed and left his fair lord alone. He went past the trees and deeper into the wood. There was this great hall that was full of ancient books about everything - from the great music that was the beginning of everything to the history of Men and healing herbs.
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"Gelion I seek your help," Faonor burst in the great hall that was filled with thousands of books from the floor to the high ceiling.
"And how can I help you?" asked tall and proud she-elf that was standing in front of the open window. She closed her book with graceful move and turned toward the younger elf with questioning gaze.
"You are one of the oldest elves still dwelling in the Middle earth," Faonor had started his little speech.
"You seek me because I am old?" she mildly mocked him. Faonor blushed in response.
"Yes. No... You are skilled in history of cures and magic. Someone who has a great knowledge of the Men and can help mortals is immediately needed in king's quarters," Faonor tried to avoid her bright eyes that were of the deepest blue color. Eyes that had seen raises and declines of mighty kingdoms, wisdom of many centuries dwelt there. But her spirit was still young and playful. Faonor was waiting for her reaction and couldn't take his eyes of the fair she-elf.
Gelion looked in the direction of the book-board and put the book she was holding away.
"I will help your lord although I was and still am against his decisions. But I was born to help any living creature if I only can. Especially if the one in need is innocent mortal," Gelion answered in melodic yet blank voice.
"So lead me," she came closer and looked in his eyes. The young Elf endured her steady gaze but was relieved as she looked in the direction of the door.
"I will, my lady. But first, you must swear not to inform anyone on this matter," Faonor asked her in a little unsecured voice.
"I swear I will not talk of the matter. But remember I am not the one that shall interfere with the destiny," a dark look could meant rage if someone would observed carefully.
"Now lead me," she told him again in peaceful manner.
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It might be morning or afternoon, Vesper thought as she opened her eyes. She was so tired, cramps finally subdued but she was soaked with sweat and wanted water. Cold water.
Vesper pulled all of her remaining strengths to get out of bed and get some water from the jar that stood at the table near the window. She straightened herself and put her feet on the floor. The stone under her feet cooled her a bit and she made some unsure steps toward the table.
She was trembling in fever as she grabbed the glass, filled it with water and drank it while some drops escaped her mouth and went down her neck.
Cold water felt so good. But her legs gave up their obedience and in the next moment she hit the floor in slow motion.
Whitish sparks shot before her eyes till darkness engulfed her.
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Gelion and Faonor walked to the great entrance and quietly passed numerous stone corridors and halls, until they finally made it to Legolas' chambers.
Faonor was avoiding Gelion's gaze and he was to unlock her door when sudden although muffed scream scared him.
"Make haste, make haste," Gelion yelled out and burst into the room. Her eyes grew wide with horror.
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Gellion kneeled down by the lithe unconscious body on the floor. She held Vesper's head in her hands and started quietly talking in elvish.
Vesper heard some familiar voice from far above her. She was sleeping under the deep, dark and warm water where she felt almost comfortable. The place of peace she would never leave. Let her stay here. But the silence was broken with few words.
"Vesper! Mellon h?n! my child Vesper!"
Vesper's heart lightened and joy almost choked her as the tears of happiness filled her closed eyes. She opened her eyes, got up and carefully listened.
"Vesper! Mellon h?n! Vesper!"
She was this small girl in the green meadow playing that she is an elvish princess from her mother's fairytales and that her father, the great king shall give her a horse because she was so brave in the battle. She looked toward the great house at the edge of the meadow and started running.
"Mama! Mama!" she felt fine wings sprung on her upper back and she jumped in the air and was flying to the light in front of her. All the windows in the house glittered in the warm light and she saw a person all lit with the light calling her to follow the light and come home.
"Mama! Mama!"
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Faonor was kneeling beside Gelion and after long moments he finally saw Vesper's white lips moving, desperately trying to form few words.
Then her eyelids slowly parted and revealed her grey blurred eyes. Her gaze cleared after some time and she looked at Gelion.
Trace of bare whisper surprised Faonor but even his elvish hearing didn't catch all the words.
"..... not ........" that was all he could understand.
Gelion was still holding her hand on girl's forehead. Her eyes were sad, haunted with rage that was not usual for her race. Then she lifted Vesper and put her in the chair by the window. "Change the bed, Faonor. But first would you be so kind and go to my quarters where you will find my dresses and bring one here. And warm water! With few towels, don't forget that."
Faonor obeyed her at once and in few moments he was back with water and dress and sheets. He changed the bed and stopped to see if he would be needed.
Gelion laid Vesper down on the bed and looked at Faonor.
"Thank you, but now I have to ask you to leave us alone," Gelion told him politely but determinately. He knew she wouldn't stand any objections. Faonor turned and left the room.
Gelion soaked towel and undressed Vesper. She uncovered her body with pale skin marred with faded bruises and blackish marks. Her wrists were scared with ripe traces and rounded black marks where fingers were gripping her with excessive force. Her neck and shoulders had countless scars and spots, proofs of the Elf's dark passion. Her hips and tights bore even more bruises where he held her down.
Gelion felt tears escaping her eyes because the sight of the tormented body struck her deeply. To incise so much pain to someone was beyond her perception.
Vesper was convinced that the beautiful she-elf must revolt at the sight of her bruised and scared body. Therefore she turned her face into the pillow and shame burnt her cheeks as the she-elf cleaned her body with wet towel. She was gentle, afraid to cause any more pain. But Vesper tried to move away from her reach but she was not strong enough. Gelion sensed girl's discomfort and she put her hand on Vesper's feverish forehead.
"Be not afraid. I come to help."
Vesper let her finish her work and dress her. After that she said to Gelion in blank and surrendered voice.
"I'm not afraid. I'm beyond any help." Saying that Vesper closed her eyes and seek oblivion in sleep. Gelion waited for some time to make sure that the girl in the bed was sleeping. Then she left the room with features that expressed great concern.
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Gelion went to her library and spent there the hours that were separating her from the meeting with Legolas in the evening.
Faonor and Gelion were standing in the great hall of trees and waiting for their prince to arrive. Dark clad figure came as the sun was disappearing behind the golden hills. His face was glowing in the dying sunrays but his features were without any expression.
He stopped in front of them and hailed. It was to be a peaceful evening. Warm breeze played with their hair and made their clothes wave like great wings. Leaves whispered to them the secrets of the woods and nightingale's soft song floated in the air.
"What is wrong with her? What kind of wizardly chose her body to dwell there?" His voice was clear and still. Like it had nothing to do with him.
That was exactly what Faonor was eager to know. But before he could get any knowledge about the matter Gelion asked him to leave. Before he could protest Gelion's stern gaze he had never seen before made him nod his head and leave as fast as he could. Now the two blond Elves were standing two steps apart, facing each other. Both of them blessed with the beauty of their race - but Legolas' beauty was now of a subtle predator. His eyes were glittering as the ice over the stream in cold winter sun. His posture was one of the warrior, still and danger, only his golden hair moving gracefully in the wind. Gelion was proud, her hair running down her shoulders as the silver stream. Her face was kind and tender, soft light shone there, but her eyes of deep blue were painted with wisdom of many ages she had seen. They were the eyes of a healer and philosopher.
"Speak if you please, Gelion," Legolas said.
"I have known you as a child, your father was so proud of you." She surprised Legolas with unexpected words. He saw her watching him. She wondered what made him change few months ago. What force corrupted one of the brightest souls she ever knew? How was such a good creature turned from the trusty friend and loyal son into cruel lord that like to induce pain? Not to Elves, no but to innocent mortal. And not just once to prevent the prophecy but several times. Vesper's memories haunted her for a brief moment - betrayal, shock, disbelief, weight pushing her down, force as of steel pinning her wrists and bruising her, sharp ache of impaling her body, touches that bruised her mercilessly and soft words that drove her insane.
"That was long time ago. I'm a child no more. Did you find out what is wrong?" Legolas words were cold, matter-of-factual.
"How could you do that to her? And for so long. It would be better just to kill her, at least more merciful." Gelion looked in his eyes that were of the deepest blue as hers.
"I thought that my questions shall be answered not yours. But I was much mistaken. It is not up to you to understand - I respect your knowledge, but certain things are hard for souls like you to understand. If you wish to know - I was chosen to save us and I did. That's all that matters. But I had to sacrifice something and so did she. She came on her free will. And I had to break her to get the light and power. I succeed. From that time she belongs to me. She is a part of me. And with part of me I can do what I want. And now it is your turn to answer my question. What kind of wizardry is at work?"
Gelion remained quiet for some time to gather her dispersed thoughts. Legolas had destroyed the good in him to save the Elves. But was it worth? Can they build their glory on someone else's misery and suffering? She didn't believe that.
"It is the oldest and greatest wizardry of all - the magic of life," she told him in clear voice. "Vesper carries a child."
It was like the air had frozen and the time had stopped at once. Nothing moved, not even the leaves.
Legolas's eyes narrowed but his expression was still blank.
"Can anything be done about that?" dry and cold words tore the silence around them.
Gelion was struck but quickly recollected herself. "No. I don't know the wizardry strong enough. Mortal women cannot choose with whom they shall conceive as the mortals cannot end their life with a mere wish when the burden of life gets to heavy."
"Vesper carries an elvish child. That had never happened in the history of the Middle earth. A mortal mother to give a birth to an immortal. Elvish children demand a lot of strengths, remember Fëanor and his mother? She was of our kin but carrying such a strong child exhausted her and she left her body. But mortal mother? The child will drain her before the birth."
"The mortals die anyway. Sooner or later." Legolas stayed calm like the whole thing had nothing to do with him.
Gelion bent her head to hide the disgust in her eyes. To be so cruel.then she looked at him.
"I shall give her more potions to keep her strengths. As the child is growing he sucks more and more energy but she is too weak already and that's why she feels increasing pain. If she survives the birth she could recover. But I'm afraid for both of them. She won't last long." But she saw that the fair Elf wasn't listening to what she had said.
"A child of an Elf and a mortal. Immortality combined with human intensity and passion in a perfect form. Born perfection," Legolas let his gaze wander behind the present. Then he bowed his head in realisation.
"A fool, nothing but a fool I was. A chosen one, mighty one, oh yes, but chosen to be a mighty tool. Well. In vain my struggle." Sad smile played on his lips for a bit and showed Legolas' true face. Face that was loved by his father, his friends, the face Vesper trusted what it seemed now thousand years ago. But soon it vanished under cold words.
"Do what you want to do." Legolas said and left her alone. He didn't ask how far was Vesper or how his child was. That filled her with rage. After all it was his child. Gelion watched him disappearing into the shadows and started to feel strange sympathy for him.
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*big thanks* to *musicgrl*, *Andmetwen*, *tbris* for your reviews and that you stuck with me for awhile :)
plus: I got my first flame! (accused to be marysuish - ok, I admit that I'm twisted but not *SO* twisted! FLS!)
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Ok because this last chap is a bit longer I've decided to post it in two parts (otherwise would take too long)
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A CHILD OF DEAD SHADOWS SHALL BECOME A LIGHT (part 1)
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As Legolas felt her pain, shame and despair and he licked her salty tears he claimed her once more before he reached his dark release. He came panting in her sweaty skin and rested on her surrendered body enjoying in his twisted satisfaction at her tarnished soul.
How could he bring her such cruelty, when he looked so pure and good in the warm lights of the few candles? Was she doomed too? Doomed to be the object of his dark obsession? And never find some peace.
But the only answer Vesper had ever received was the silence of the night.
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Morning brought new day - and the day was Vesper's battlefield - she tried to forget what happened the previous night. She spent whole day huddled in the corner by the window and hanging on the memories of her early childhood. How she used to listen the stories her mama was telling her and how father brought her Aldebaran, the most beautiful beast she has ever seen. They were a happy family.
.......Until that day, the day when mother left them. Left her without a word. Destroyed their family for the love of the dark Elf. The Elf she died for. .......
Elvish whore... harsh words said in sweet, melodic voice drove her crazy. They were echoing in her head, they grew louder and then sink into the mere whisper.
"No, it is not me, it is not my mother, is it not my mother...it is not, it is not..." tears were running down her cheeks and she hid her face from the sunlight. She wished to be with her family. Dead like them.
Legolas caught her words from afar and tensed for a brief moment. Then he mentally slapped himself and forced a mocking smile on his face. He can do what he wants. He is the chosen one.
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As the time passed by, weeks matured to months, and Vesper wasn't sure how long had she been staying there in Greenwood. She lost her track of time. She lost many things. First her faith. Then her hope. Along with the pride. At last she lost her will to resist. Her keeper was satisfied as he saw that the light from her eyes was gone without a smallest trace. He could easily snap her slender neck in a breath. She would be thankful. But he didn't. he needed someone to make him fell alive.
Because every night after the dusk Legolas came. At first he violently claimed her and left her soon after that like he would feel guilty watching her fresh bruises and cuts. Every now and than he showed strange and unwanted tenderness toward her. That was the part of her torture that Vesper could not get used to.
Because cuts and bruises hurt and made her forget other things - him inside her body and his moans of pleasure in her slick skin.
But soft kisses and his caressing hands made her forget who he was and who she was. And the words *elvish whore* echoed inside her head at every gentle touch he made.
And even stranger things happened - like her body would adjust to Legolas' twisted ministration and when he didn't come she felt hateful weirdness. Like expectation what will happen next.
Sometimes he still came with cruel tricks that made her tremble and revolt. He enjoyed and even more, he wasn't shy about showing her *how* much he enjoyed her.
"You are a part of me now. A part of me that makes me feel alive. See, Elves are too fragile to survive such things, but you mortals can endure more - I can break you and use you but you will survive. That's a great thing. Maybe deep inside you are twisted and not so different from me. It must be in your blood - craving for Elves. Women in your family had this thing for Elves, didn't they? Your mother did, for sure." Then he kissed Vesper and wished her good night.
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That morning after the night like many before Vesper opened her eyes and blinked because of the bright light that shone on her bed.
She stiffened as she realised that she wasn't alone. Legolas' head was still resting on her shoulders and his hands were wrapped around her waist in possessively manner.
Vesper instinctively pushed him away and moved to the edge of the bed. She pulled the blanked around her thin body.
Legolas lazily opened his blue eyes and smiled as he dragged her in his arms again.
"Good morning. Did you sleep well? I did." He yawned and the golden locks of his hair made him look so innocent and neat. One would easily be mistaken that he is only young, fair and harmless Elf. One lock dangled on his face and he looked so boyish and vulnerable that Vesper held still for a few moments. Maybe it was all a nightmare.
His blue eyes were sparkling in the morning sun, the curtains slowly waved in light breeze that was bringing the smell of flowers in the room and green woods were whispering.
It was like she was trapped in some kind of dreams, nice dreams if she could completely forget past few months. Legolas was still looking at her and smiling. But Vesper's stomach was turning and she leaned on the pillow. She stayed still for couple of minutes and waited for Legolas to leave and let her go. Because he should be gone for hours. He always left while it was dark. Always. Even a sick routine is still a routine, she thought bitterly.
Suddenly a sharp pain was tearing her in her abdomen, cramps that forced her to breath shallowly and cold sweat made her body slick.
She let a cry of pain and grabbed the sheets as that could ease her pain. Legolas was surprised and let her go immediately.
Then he frowned and looked at her. He saw her squirming body beside him and he straightened himself. He touched her shoulders when jolts of building pain went through her small body.
"What is wrong?" Legolas asked her with sharp voice.
"Pain ... burning pain ..." Vesper muttered and muffed her scream in the pillow. Her body was covered in cold sweat. Another strangled sound came from her throat, her hands still grabbing tightly for support, and she threw her head back onto the pillow. The pain was overwhelming. She felt like her body had been torn in two from the inside.
Legolas felt her pain as he was holding her but it wasn't in his power to prevent it. That was odd. He sensed weird force inside her body, ancient and unique fighting to be set free. He didn't know how to heal mortals so he waited till her ache subdued and left her there.
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Later he called Faonor and sent him to bring her whatever she needed. He came back and informed him that Vesper was sleeping. Legolas nodded and thought that maybe he did exhaust her too much. After all, he kept her there and used her during past months. He would go this night and check if she better. She was not supposed to die like that. Her destiny belongs to him only.
Headache took him by surprise and he fell on his knees.
"YOU SHOULD NOT BE A WEAK CREATURE, BE ASHAMED! DO NOT BE GOOD TO A FOE! BE AWARE, YOU ARE THE CHOSEN ONE. LET HER DIE IN BURNING PAIN." Strange words hit Elf's ears with sudden blow.
Legolas felt something warm on his lip and he pressed his hand on that place. As he held his hand before eyes he saw his blood - it was dark red, almost black and smelled as ashes. He felt cold crawling up his spine but fiercely shook his head and stood up. He put his hand into the fountain full of clear water that washed blood away. He is strong - no voice shall ever bother him again or command him. If he wants to cure Vesper he will do that. And he will to that for his own pleasure.
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Vesper suddenly woke up from her slumber because she felt sharp pain building in her abdomen, the same pain that attacked her in the morning and later disappeared as she welcomed sleep. She almost crawled to the window hoping that fresh air will make the pain go away.
But the pain drew dark green circles before Vesper's eyes and strange buzzing filled her ears. In vain she was trying to stand up and go back to bed. She had to sit down immediately.
The agony lasted less than quarter of hour but it exhausted her completely. She wanted to lie down in bed but her jelly-like legs didn't obey her. Vesper managed to pull herself to the wall and leaned her sweaty forehead to the cold stonewall.
As the night came Legolas was walking to the Vesper's room. He was determined not to be concerned for her - he claims her every night and this one will be no exception. She belongs to him. All of her.
When Legolas entered the room he found her sitting by the window and white as the first time he abused her.
He sensed her physical pain and exhaustion that hit his every nerve. Never before did he feel such weariness as today. She didn't even care that he was here. She had darkish circles under her eyes and she sat there lifeless as a rug doll. But this time there was no satisfaction for him, because it wasn't him who induced that suffering.
Legolas kneeled beside her and Vesper only raised her eyes to look at him - she didn't move. The Elf pressed his hand on her forehead and a slight, hardly noticeable frown was plastered across his fair face.
Legolas put one of his hands under her knees and his other hand around her small shoulders and lifted her. She was so light. Vesper couldn't resist even if she wanted. He placed her on the pillows and held her face in his hands. The Elf carefully scanned every inch of her face, staring in her eyes for long moments. He couldn't find what was wrong. It wasn't him, he saw that. It had to be that weird force. Yet he was the most powerful being in this place. How could anyone be mightier than him? And why was this magic dwelling in her? She was weak.
Vesper saw dime concern burning in his eyes as he leaned over her and stopped close to her face.
Not tonight, she whispered inside her head. I cannot bare any more pain. She couldn't resist. She needed sleep, deep slumber to forget the pain. But he didn't care for that, she knew. She closed her eyes as if that could prevent the pain he was to induce to her.
Vesper was waiting for his arms to grab her and his weight to pin her down and force her body into more pain. After unusually long moments she slowly lifted her heavy eyelids while she was struck with the recognition of being alone in the room. Legolas had disappeared without a word.
And as the night grew on she thought that he would come back but he didn't come. A miracle.
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Down the corridor, in his room, Legolas was in vain trying to catch some sleep. It didn't come. He knew that something unknown and undefined crawled into the Greenwood the Great. And it had chosen Vesper. Was it trying to kill her? But why? He could do that himself. Or could through her the force endanger the Age of the Firstborns?
After the restless night Legolas got up at the very first sign of pale dawn and he put on his clothes and went outside - it was time for his morning practice with the sword. Later, he decided, he would call Faonor and give him orders to find Gelion, one of the eldest Wooden elves that still dwelt in the Middle Earth. He knew she didn't like him and the magic he used to save the Elves. But she knew great deal of all kinds of magic.
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"You called for me, my lord," Faonor came to the place were Legolas was practising.
"I did, Faonor. Go and find Gelion, tell her that I want to talk to her. But no sooner than in the evening. Take her to Vesper before we meet. But Gelion has to swear that the secret is safe with her. Go now!"
Faonor bowed and left his fair lord alone. He went past the trees and deeper into the wood. There was this great hall that was full of ancient books about everything - from the great music that was the beginning of everything to the history of Men and healing herbs.
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"Gelion I seek your help," Faonor burst in the great hall that was filled with thousands of books from the floor to the high ceiling.
"And how can I help you?" asked tall and proud she-elf that was standing in front of the open window. She closed her book with graceful move and turned toward the younger elf with questioning gaze.
"You are one of the oldest elves still dwelling in the Middle earth," Faonor had started his little speech.
"You seek me because I am old?" she mildly mocked him. Faonor blushed in response.
"Yes. No... You are skilled in history of cures and magic. Someone who has a great knowledge of the Men and can help mortals is immediately needed in king's quarters," Faonor tried to avoid her bright eyes that were of the deepest blue color. Eyes that had seen raises and declines of mighty kingdoms, wisdom of many centuries dwelt there. But her spirit was still young and playful. Faonor was waiting for her reaction and couldn't take his eyes of the fair she-elf.
Gelion looked in the direction of the book-board and put the book she was holding away.
"I will help your lord although I was and still am against his decisions. But I was born to help any living creature if I only can. Especially if the one in need is innocent mortal," Gelion answered in melodic yet blank voice.
"So lead me," she came closer and looked in his eyes. The young Elf endured her steady gaze but was relieved as she looked in the direction of the door.
"I will, my lady. But first, you must swear not to inform anyone on this matter," Faonor asked her in a little unsecured voice.
"I swear I will not talk of the matter. But remember I am not the one that shall interfere with the destiny," a dark look could meant rage if someone would observed carefully.
"Now lead me," she told him again in peaceful manner.
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It might be morning or afternoon, Vesper thought as she opened her eyes. She was so tired, cramps finally subdued but she was soaked with sweat and wanted water. Cold water.
Vesper pulled all of her remaining strengths to get out of bed and get some water from the jar that stood at the table near the window. She straightened herself and put her feet on the floor. The stone under her feet cooled her a bit and she made some unsure steps toward the table.
She was trembling in fever as she grabbed the glass, filled it with water and drank it while some drops escaped her mouth and went down her neck.
Cold water felt so good. But her legs gave up their obedience and in the next moment she hit the floor in slow motion.
Whitish sparks shot before her eyes till darkness engulfed her.
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Gelion and Faonor walked to the great entrance and quietly passed numerous stone corridors and halls, until they finally made it to Legolas' chambers.
Faonor was avoiding Gelion's gaze and he was to unlock her door when sudden although muffed scream scared him.
"Make haste, make haste," Gelion yelled out and burst into the room. Her eyes grew wide with horror.
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Gellion kneeled down by the lithe unconscious body on the floor. She held Vesper's head in her hands and started quietly talking in elvish.
Vesper heard some familiar voice from far above her. She was sleeping under the deep, dark and warm water where she felt almost comfortable. The place of peace she would never leave. Let her stay here. But the silence was broken with few words.
"Vesper! Mellon h?n! my child Vesper!"
Vesper's heart lightened and joy almost choked her as the tears of happiness filled her closed eyes. She opened her eyes, got up and carefully listened.
"Vesper! Mellon h?n! Vesper!"
She was this small girl in the green meadow playing that she is an elvish princess from her mother's fairytales and that her father, the great king shall give her a horse because she was so brave in the battle. She looked toward the great house at the edge of the meadow and started running.
"Mama! Mama!" she felt fine wings sprung on her upper back and she jumped in the air and was flying to the light in front of her. All the windows in the house glittered in the warm light and she saw a person all lit with the light calling her to follow the light and come home.
"Mama! Mama!"
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Faonor was kneeling beside Gelion and after long moments he finally saw Vesper's white lips moving, desperately trying to form few words.
Then her eyelids slowly parted and revealed her grey blurred eyes. Her gaze cleared after some time and she looked at Gelion.
Trace of bare whisper surprised Faonor but even his elvish hearing didn't catch all the words.
"..... not ........" that was all he could understand.
Gelion was still holding her hand on girl's forehead. Her eyes were sad, haunted with rage that was not usual for her race. Then she lifted Vesper and put her in the chair by the window. "Change the bed, Faonor. But first would you be so kind and go to my quarters where you will find my dresses and bring one here. And warm water! With few towels, don't forget that."
Faonor obeyed her at once and in few moments he was back with water and dress and sheets. He changed the bed and stopped to see if he would be needed.
Gelion laid Vesper down on the bed and looked at Faonor.
"Thank you, but now I have to ask you to leave us alone," Gelion told him politely but determinately. He knew she wouldn't stand any objections. Faonor turned and left the room.
Gelion soaked towel and undressed Vesper. She uncovered her body with pale skin marred with faded bruises and blackish marks. Her wrists were scared with ripe traces and rounded black marks where fingers were gripping her with excessive force. Her neck and shoulders had countless scars and spots, proofs of the Elf's dark passion. Her hips and tights bore even more bruises where he held her down.
Gelion felt tears escaping her eyes because the sight of the tormented body struck her deeply. To incise so much pain to someone was beyond her perception.
Vesper was convinced that the beautiful she-elf must revolt at the sight of her bruised and scared body. Therefore she turned her face into the pillow and shame burnt her cheeks as the she-elf cleaned her body with wet towel. She was gentle, afraid to cause any more pain. But Vesper tried to move away from her reach but she was not strong enough. Gelion sensed girl's discomfort and she put her hand on Vesper's feverish forehead.
"Be not afraid. I come to help."
Vesper let her finish her work and dress her. After that she said to Gelion in blank and surrendered voice.
"I'm not afraid. I'm beyond any help." Saying that Vesper closed her eyes and seek oblivion in sleep. Gelion waited for some time to make sure that the girl in the bed was sleeping. Then she left the room with features that expressed great concern.
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Gelion went to her library and spent there the hours that were separating her from the meeting with Legolas in the evening.
Faonor and Gelion were standing in the great hall of trees and waiting for their prince to arrive. Dark clad figure came as the sun was disappearing behind the golden hills. His face was glowing in the dying sunrays but his features were without any expression.
He stopped in front of them and hailed. It was to be a peaceful evening. Warm breeze played with their hair and made their clothes wave like great wings. Leaves whispered to them the secrets of the woods and nightingale's soft song floated in the air.
"What is wrong with her? What kind of wizardly chose her body to dwell there?" His voice was clear and still. Like it had nothing to do with him.
That was exactly what Faonor was eager to know. But before he could get any knowledge about the matter Gelion asked him to leave. Before he could protest Gelion's stern gaze he had never seen before made him nod his head and leave as fast as he could. Now the two blond Elves were standing two steps apart, facing each other. Both of them blessed with the beauty of their race - but Legolas' beauty was now of a subtle predator. His eyes were glittering as the ice over the stream in cold winter sun. His posture was one of the warrior, still and danger, only his golden hair moving gracefully in the wind. Gelion was proud, her hair running down her shoulders as the silver stream. Her face was kind and tender, soft light shone there, but her eyes of deep blue were painted with wisdom of many ages she had seen. They were the eyes of a healer and philosopher.
"Speak if you please, Gelion," Legolas said.
"I have known you as a child, your father was so proud of you." She surprised Legolas with unexpected words. He saw her watching him. She wondered what made him change few months ago. What force corrupted one of the brightest souls she ever knew? How was such a good creature turned from the trusty friend and loyal son into cruel lord that like to induce pain? Not to Elves, no but to innocent mortal. And not just once to prevent the prophecy but several times. Vesper's memories haunted her for a brief moment - betrayal, shock, disbelief, weight pushing her down, force as of steel pinning her wrists and bruising her, sharp ache of impaling her body, touches that bruised her mercilessly and soft words that drove her insane.
"That was long time ago. I'm a child no more. Did you find out what is wrong?" Legolas words were cold, matter-of-factual.
"How could you do that to her? And for so long. It would be better just to kill her, at least more merciful." Gelion looked in his eyes that were of the deepest blue as hers.
"I thought that my questions shall be answered not yours. But I was much mistaken. It is not up to you to understand - I respect your knowledge, but certain things are hard for souls like you to understand. If you wish to know - I was chosen to save us and I did. That's all that matters. But I had to sacrifice something and so did she. She came on her free will. And I had to break her to get the light and power. I succeed. From that time she belongs to me. She is a part of me. And with part of me I can do what I want. And now it is your turn to answer my question. What kind of wizardry is at work?"
Gelion remained quiet for some time to gather her dispersed thoughts. Legolas had destroyed the good in him to save the Elves. But was it worth? Can they build their glory on someone else's misery and suffering? She didn't believe that.
"It is the oldest and greatest wizardry of all - the magic of life," she told him in clear voice. "Vesper carries a child."
It was like the air had frozen and the time had stopped at once. Nothing moved, not even the leaves.
Legolas's eyes narrowed but his expression was still blank.
"Can anything be done about that?" dry and cold words tore the silence around them.
Gelion was struck but quickly recollected herself. "No. I don't know the wizardry strong enough. Mortal women cannot choose with whom they shall conceive as the mortals cannot end their life with a mere wish when the burden of life gets to heavy."
"Vesper carries an elvish child. That had never happened in the history of the Middle earth. A mortal mother to give a birth to an immortal. Elvish children demand a lot of strengths, remember Fëanor and his mother? She was of our kin but carrying such a strong child exhausted her and she left her body. But mortal mother? The child will drain her before the birth."
"The mortals die anyway. Sooner or later." Legolas stayed calm like the whole thing had nothing to do with him.
Gelion bent her head to hide the disgust in her eyes. To be so cruel.then she looked at him.
"I shall give her more potions to keep her strengths. As the child is growing he sucks more and more energy but she is too weak already and that's why she feels increasing pain. If she survives the birth she could recover. But I'm afraid for both of them. She won't last long." But she saw that the fair Elf wasn't listening to what she had said.
"A child of an Elf and a mortal. Immortality combined with human intensity and passion in a perfect form. Born perfection," Legolas let his gaze wander behind the present. Then he bowed his head in realisation.
"A fool, nothing but a fool I was. A chosen one, mighty one, oh yes, but chosen to be a mighty tool. Well. In vain my struggle." Sad smile played on his lips for a bit and showed Legolas' true face. Face that was loved by his father, his friends, the face Vesper trusted what it seemed now thousand years ago. But soon it vanished under cold words.
"Do what you want to do." Legolas said and left her alone. He didn't ask how far was Vesper or how his child was. That filled her with rage. After all it was his child. Gelion watched him disappearing into the shadows and started to feel strange sympathy for him.
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