All right, next chapter is here…Enjoy!!!

Chapter 15--Innocent Victim

Arathorn finished with him at last and got dressed. "I will go pick the one who will pay for your defiance now. Do not worry, you will see all of it," he said and left the room.

Legolas heard the door lock behind the King and closed his eyes. "Elbereth, help me," he whispered.

He was afraid for the one who would be punished because of him.

An hour later Arathorn returned with one guard who was dragging a frightened Human boy with him. He wasn't much older then seven. The guard shoved him roughly to the ground and took out a whip.

"Nay, he is but a child. Do not do this!!" Legolas pleaded.

"Your defiance is worth six lashes and make sure you watch or more will be added," Arathorn warned. He looked at the guard. "You may begin."

Legolas forced himself to watch to spare the boy anymore pain, but the child's sobs and screams tore at his heart.

The guard took the boy from the room after the lashes were given. Arathorn undressed and returned to bed. "I trust you will remember this lesson the next time you consider defying me," he said.

Much to Legolas' relief Arathorn went to sleep and didn't touch him again, but he would find no sleep that night.

The next morning Arathorn freed Legolas from his bonds, but refused to allow him to dress. Legolas had to assist him in bathing, dressing and then brush his hair as well.

Finally Arathorn strode to the door to leave. "Cleanse yourself and dress, I expect to see you in my throne room in an hour and do not be late, pet," he ordered and left, closing the door, but not locking it.

Legolas sighed, knowing he didn't have too. He would not let another child be hurt because of him and that bound him more surely then chains of mithril. He bathed and dressed taking as long as he could then went to the throne room.

Several strange Humans stood there with the King. Bolts of cloth and sewing things rested on a large table. Arathorn smiled coolly at Legolas when he entered the room. "Stand by the table, my beauty, this is my royal tailor and his assistants, he is going to make you suitable clothes," he said.

Legolas had to stand there two hours while Arathorn chose the style and color of the new garments. Legolas was completely ignored as if he wasn't there. Finally it was finished.

"Have those clothes done as soon as possible, you may leave," Arathorn said.

The men bowed, gathered their things and left the throne room. Arathorn gestured to Legolas. "Come over here, little one," he ordered.

Legolas gritted his teeth and obeyed. He was once again pulled into Arathorn's lap. Legolas was tense as a bowstring, especially when the King started running his fingers through his hair.

"It is not so bad, you will have every luxury you would have in your own lands. The finest food and clothing and I am the only one you have to serve," Arathorn said. "You will come to take pleasure in my touch in time, do not fear."

Aye, I will have everything except the one thing I desire above all--my freedom, Legolas thought. He wondered if Aragorn and his other friends knew what had happened and if Silverheart was safe.

Arathorn's hands roamed down Legolas' body distracting him from his thoughts. "I cannot wait, I must have you again. Let us go back to our chambers," he whispered.

Legolas meekly allowed the King to lead him back to the room. He would be strong and watch for a way to escape or for help to come. He didn't resist as Arathorn lowered him down on the bed…

OH, I hate Arathorn too, especially now!!! He's so arrogant and selfish!!! I hope you're all enjoying this---- R/R please!!!!