AUTHOR'S NOTE:
*Author is far too exhausted to say much today. It's midnight and she still has English finals to face tomorrow. ;p She would, however, like to THANK EVERYONE (100 times over) who reviewed the last chapter and hope they will like this one just as much. She will make up for the lousy greetings next time.*
Get ready for an action-packed ride ahead! ;p Enjoy!
HAPPY READING!
* * *
THE SACRIFICE
Chapter Fourteen - Rescues
Armir woke up the next morning to the sound of a gentle wind blowing through the tree branches shading her from above. She smiled and closed her eyes, breathing in the smells of the new day. It was as though the world had never seemed more beautiful to her senses than it did at that one moment.
With a contented sigh, the young maiden delicately lay back and returned her head to its comfortable place upon her lover's warm chest. She smothered a giggle as she observed the contented smile on Legolas' lips while he remained unconscious, still caught up in his deep slumber. He looked so adorable, so sweet and innocent, with that look of peace and bliss on his face.
Though it seemed a little queer that her energetic and spirited guardian would be so tired as to sleep in even longer than she has, she had no intention of disturbing him in his rest. After all, he really did deserve the time out.
Armir snuggled her delicate form cozily against Legolas' well-built frame, fitting her body easily into his, like two opposites made to complement each other. She closed her eyes wistfully, wishing that she could freeze this moment of pure bliss and relish it for all eternity. But she knew that this was, of course, impossible. The world was not perfect, and it did not consist of just Legolas and she, though last night, wrapped in his tender embrace, Armir had nearly forgotten this truth altogether.
The reminder that there was still a quest to be faced now weighed down heavily on the maiden more than ever. On the other hand, the fears and worries that have haunted her over the past days had also lessened drastically. Armir smiled fondly at the sleeping elf beside her. As long as she was with him, she knew she would find the strength to cope with anything. Legolas' mere presence made her feel a hundred times stronger and braver than she really was.
Armir lay there for a few more minutes before finally deciding to get up and start the morning. She wanted to freshen up a bit first before returning to the others back at camp. They must be very worried about her, since last night she just left without telling anyone where she was going. It was likely that they figured out she had spent the night with Legolas, but just the same she wanted to assure them she was all right.
Very carefully, as so not to wake him up, she retracted herself from Legolas' arms and slowly lifted herself up to her knees. She crouched down beside him and took a moment to once again contemplate his remarkable beauty. Pride and joy swelled in her heart as she gazed at him, her beloved, her treasure. It was still difficult to believe that this stunning elf loved her, and wanted to bind himself to her. What could she have done to deserve such a perfect mate? It just seemed too good to be true.
"I love you." she whispered softly, running her fingers gently through the golden hair that spilled down his shoulder. "So much."
As soon as these words left her lips, Legolas muttered faintly as he slightly stirred in his sleep. Though he still did not open his eyes nor wake, Armir could see the approval appear on his uncontrolled expression at her love-filled statement. Though his hearing may not have really picked up the sound of her voice, it was as though his soul had nonetheless received her message.
Armir smiled. "Just sleep, Melamin." she murmured lovingly, stroking his milky skin with a tender, graceful hand. "I shall be back soon."
With that, she kissed his cheek and eyelids for the last time before rising to her feet at last. She reached down and picked up the outer cloak she had shed during the night, wrapping it snugly around her shoulders before heading off.
As the young maiden strolled alone through the forest in search of the stream she was certain she had passed the previous night, something in her blissful mood seemed to change all of a sudden. As she stared up at the tall trees that surrounded her, she felt something strange in the way the winds suddenly shifted, and the way the boughs of the great beeches swayed with them. She noticed too that the woods had grown especially quiet, the sinister sort of silence that gave one discomfort instead of peace.
Armir frowned, her fair face clouding with sudden worry. Something was obviously amiss. And if there was one thing she had definitely learned by now, it was that she was never wrong when it came to intuitions.
She walked on for a few more minutes, keeping a wary eye on her surroundings. She had not gone a very long way off when suddenly she heard familiar voices in the distance. She stopped in her tracks to listen carefully and figure out where they were coming from.
"I know why you seek solitude. You suffer, I see it day by day. Be sure you do not suffer needlessly. There are other ways, Frodo, other paths we might take."
Boromir. . . and Frodo.
Armir quickened her step towards the direction of the voices, keeping a sharp ear on the conversation that seemed to be growing more into an argument each moment.
"I know what you would say, and it would sound like wisdom, but for the warning in my heart."
"Warning? Against what? We are all afraid Frodo, but to let that fear drive us to destroy what hope we have... don't you see? It's madness!"
At last, she reached a clearing where she caught sight of her two comrades locked in their heated exchange. Both seemed to be too caught up in their dialogue to notice her silent arrival. For a moment, the elf could only stand frozen and watch, hesitant as whether or not to intervene between the man and hobbit.
"I ask only for the strength to defend my people!" Boromir shouted, his voice rising due to a self-control that seemed to have finally failed. He threw down the pile of kindling in his arms and took a step closer towards Frodo with an outstretched hand. "If you would but lend me the ring. . . "
"No!" Frodo refused firmly, moving back to prevent the man from coming too near. Armir could note the unyielding determination in his face, but in spite of his courage, she could also sense a mounting fear in his heart. Not that he could be blamed for this dread-the queer expression on Boromir's face as he approached him was undeniably disconcerting.
The man seemed to take offense in Frodo's moving away from him. "Why do you recoil? I am no thief!"
"You are not yourself!" Frodo responded.
Boromir dropped his arm and spoke with an even harsher tone that caused chills to run through Armir's spine. "What chance do you think you have? They will find you, they will take the ring, and you will beg for death before the end!"
Armir's eyes widened with alarm as she listened to these threatening words. This did not sound good at all. Boromir was starting to sound ominously dangerous.
Frodo seemed to notice this impending peril as well, for Armir saw him turn and begin to walk away from Boromir, without even attempting a reply for the man's intimidation. Boromir however, was not willing to be brushed off so easily. Immediately he started after Frodo, his long strides giving him sure advantage over the hobbit.
"It is not yours save by a happenstance! It could have been mine! It should have been mine!" he shouted, eyes gleaming with anger and greed that was malicious but uncharacteristic. "Give it to me!"
"No!"
Armir gasped in horror as Boromir suddenly lunged himself at the hobbit, tackling him to the ground in uncontrolled fury. Instincts took effect as the elf broke into a frantic run, hurrying towards the two figures wresting on the ground before it was too late.
* * *
Frodo struggled for breath as Boromir's strong hands gripped down tightly around his neck. He tried to struggle, but was powerless against the man's superior strength and uncanny fury. The terror in the hobbit's heart increased rapidly as it became obvious that this man, who was supposed to be one of his protectors, was now intent on killing him.
In spite of the fact that he was ready to pass out from lack of air, Frodo fought back as hard as he could, striving to keep the ring that hung around his neck away from Boromir's violent grasp. As the man clawed at his neck greedily, Frodo kept the golden hoop clutched tightly within his two hands. Keeping one powerful hand clamped around the halfling's neck, Boromir used the other to try to pry open Frodo's fists in order to get the ring.
Frodo's eyes rolled as he began to choke from the excruciating suffocation. His instincts told him to put the ring on so that he can turn invisible and get the chance to escape, but it was too risky. One little opening of his fists would be sufficient for Boromir to take it for his own, and that would certainly be the end of everything.
Frodo tried to scream for help, but Boromir's fingers pressed so hard and painfully against his esophagus that all that could escape his throat were smothered croaks. The hobbit's heart sank. Unless aided, he was going to die in Boromir's mad clutches for sure.
Just when he was about to black out, Frodo sensed someone approach and a voice cry out his name.
* * *
"Boromir, stop! You are killing him!" Armir screamed.
The maiden reached down, grabbed the crazed Boromir's arm, and struggled to yank his hefty frame off a nearly unconscious Frodo. Even as she used all of her strength, she was unable to budge the heavyset man an inch, but nonetheless she succeeded in at least distracting him.
As Boromir turned his head to look over his shoulder at her, he ceased his attempts at breaking open the hobbit's fists. Frodo seemed to have taken advantage of this opportunity to put on the ring, for in a split moment he vanished from their sights. Boromir fell to the ground with a cry as an invisible figure slipped out from under him.
Armir watched as movement in the leaves covering the ground marked the Ring Bearer's hasty departure.
"Run, Frodo!" she cried out to the air. "Run away!"
At that moment, she heard a low growl come from behind her. With heavy pounding in her chest, Armir turned back around to face Boromir as he rose slowly to his feet, suddenly looming menacingly over her.
"Stupid maiden!" he snarled, the glare he was giving her driving more terror into Armir's heart. "Now the traitor has escaped, all thanks to you!"
"Boromir, get a hold of yourself! Please!" Armir begged desperately, backing away from the advancing man. "The Ring has taken control of you, but you must fight it!"
"Do you not understand? Frodo is the evil one!" Boromir shouted furiously. "He will take the ring to Sauron! He will betray us! He will go to his death, and the death of us all!"
His eyes flashed treacherously. "And it is all your fault, you meddlesome elf!"
"Boromir . . " Armir began, but did not get far when the enraged man abruptly raised his hand, and she was caught by surprise with a sharp blow striking her right temple. Armir groaned as an agonizing pain and dizziness washed all over her head, and she felt herself slump down to the ground before everything suddenly went black.
* * *
When Legolas woke up, the first realization that came to his consciousness was that Armir's soft, warm body was no longer anywhere near him. This perception caused him to sit up with a start and gaze frantically around him. Where was she? How long has she been gone?
Legolas frowned and shook his somewhat still groggy head. Gazing up at the brightly lit morning sky, he could tell that a few hours have already passed since sunrise. This fact disconcerted him greatly, for he could not remember the last time he had slept in so late. Usually he was up and about even before the first rays of dawn appeared, so it was strange indeed how he could have slept so soundly for so many hours.
A small smile momentarily broke through the elf's anxious state as he recalled the previous evening's pleasures which resulted in the wonderful dreams that occupied his sleep. In his two thousand years of existence, he had never experienced such a great amount of joy and peace as he did when he held Armir in his arms last night. Right then, he knew that what he had been seeking in his life all along was her. He came to the sure realization that the very purpose of his being was to love that beautiful maiden.
With a sigh, the elf prince picked up his shirt and outer tunic as he rose to his feet. But where was she? He continued to ponder over this question as he dressed. She must have awoken much earlier than he and had gotten impatient, thus she left for a while to go back to the others.
Legolas nodded as he finished strapping on his belt. Yes, that must be it. It was a reasonable explanation. All he had to do then was return to the Fellowship's camp near the river, and he would find her there with the rest of their companions.
Keeping these assuring thoughts in mind, the elf shouldered his weapons and started making his way back to the riverside. As he went on his walk however, new feelings began to grow on him as some ominous aura seemed to radiate from his surroundings. At one point, he paused in his tracks and listened carefully to the sounds of the winds as it blew through the trees. Nature seemed to be whispering words of caution to him, warnings of something that was soon to come.
Legolas eyes narrowed. This feeling was greatly familiar to him. It was the gut-sensation that would grow in his stomach and foretell the arrival of enemies right before an attack.
Upon realizing this, the Mirkwood prince broke into a swift run, his thoughts completely on his unguarded beloved.
"Please be there, my love." Legolas prayed, as he darted through the trees, speeding towards camp. "Please be safe."
* * *
"Would you destroy it?"
Frodo watched with halted breath as Aragorn approached his outstretched hand, where the One Ring lay open for his easy taking. However, his worries quickly morphed into relief and happiness when would be King of Gondor went down on his knee and closed Frodo's hand up to cover the ring.
"I would have gone with you to the end." Isildur's Heir told him seriously, his warm eyes reflecting the faithfulness of his upright soul. "To the very fires of Mordor."
Frodo felt his eyes grow moist, touched with fondness for this man, who was by far the most noble-hearted friend he had ever met. Not only did the Ranger have the strength and goodness to resist the wiles of Sauron, but he also understood why the Ring Bearer had to do what he planned to do.
"I know." the hobbit said softly. "Take care of the others, especially Sam. He would not understand."
Aragorn nodded, and opened his mouth as though he meant to say more, but suddenly his eyes were distracted by something. Suddenly, he stood and drew his sword, backing away from the hobbit.
Taken aback by his abrupt movements, Frodo drew out Sting. He stared down in horror at the brightly glowing blade just as he heard Aragorn shout urgently to him.
"Run!"
* * *
"Armir? Armir!"
Boromir shook the maiden's shoulders gently but firmly, desperate to get her to open her eyes. Tears stung the corners of his own as he observed the severe bruise he had inflicted on the fair maiden's head by striking her. He had managed to free himself from his state of temporary madness only upon seeing Armir fall to the ground, knocked out by the viciousness of his blow.
Boromir gently caressed the princess' face with a shaking hand. What could have possibly possessed him to hurt her like this? She had tried to save Frodo from death by his hands, and because of that a strange and overwhelming anger had seized him, compelling him to lash out at her uncontrollably. He had come so close to making the mort devastating mistake of his life, and all because he allowed himself to become intoxicated with pride and greed. He had succumbed to the temptations of the Shadow, and had seriously jeopardized the future of the entire Middle Earth.
As the man agonized over these troubling thoughts, Armir stirred in his arms at last. Boromir felt his heart rise with relief as the elf stared up at him with weary, but nonetheless clear blue eyes.
"Boromir?' Armir murmured, squinting her eyes as she gazed up at his face. Then, as if recalling what had just happened, she sat up and shrank back from him, the fear on her innocent face cutting through Boromir like a blade.
"Armir, it is all right." Boromir said quickly. "I was overcome by some madness, but I am better now. It is over. I will not hurt you again, I swear it."
His anxious assurances seemed to be enough to convince the elf, for she moved back closer to him as she stared up at his distraught face. "Boromir." she whispered, reaching out to touch his arm. "What happened?"
The kindness in her voice made the guilt festering in Boromir's heart hurt a thousand times over. He broke down in tears, burying his face in his hands to hide in his shame. "I know not what evil possessed me! All I know is that I curse myself for falling into it so easily." he wept. "I have been such a weak, blind fool, and for that I beg your forgiveness!"
All at once, he felt soft, gentle arms wrap him up in a comforting embrace, a compassionate gesture that instantly calmed the grief that tore at his spirit.
"It was not your fault, Mellonin." Armir whispered. "The Shadow is not an easy foe to withstand. I am just glad that you are all right now, and so is Frodo."
As the Elven princess spoke these words, and as he felt the courage and strength return to him upon feeling her caring hold, only then did the man of Gondor finally understand why Lord Elrond of Rivendell had sent his only grandchild on their quest.
Just then, strange sounds drew Boromir's attention from the moment at hand. Retracting from Armir, he ran his gaze suspiciously at their surroundings and caught sight of some movement beyond the distant trees. Though his sights could not clearly distinguish was it was that was approaching, the heavy footsteps and raucous growls were enough to confirm his fears.
"Uruk-hai!" he muttered, rising to his feet immediately and drawing out his sword. The time to redeem himself has come quickly. "We are under attack!"
Taking the Rivendell princess by the hand, he helped her up to her feet. He chose to ignore the terror that was escalating on her face and turned away from her.
"Go, Armir! I will make sure they will not go after you." he ordered, his voice remaining forcible and calm in spite of the knowing feeling of impending disaster shaking up his insides. "Find a safe place to hide. Go to Legolas and the others!"
"No, I will not leave you!" Armir cried out in panic.
"You must!" Boromir shouted back indomitably. "If I am to save you, I cannot have you here! Please, my Lady, I beg you! You must go now!"
Much to his relief, Armir did not insist on being stubborn. After throwing him one last look of hesitation, the maiden turned and ran off through the trees, just as the first Uruk stepped out into view, to be promptly followed by another . . . and another.
Boromir inhaled deeply and held up his sword, narrowing his eyes to glare at his approaching challengers. "This is for you, Frodo." he whispered, before beginning a brave charge towards the growing stream of monsters coming close for the strike.
* * *
"Where is Armir?!"
Gimli looked up with a start at the frantic elf that burst out from behind the forest undergrowth to stand before him. The distraught look on his elf-friend's face instantly caused him to share in his worry.
"What are you talking about, Laddie?" the dwarf responded, his brow ceasing with confusion. "We assumed she was with you!"
"She was, but that was last night!" Legolas exclaimed in mounting panic. "This morning when I woke up, she was no longer at my side. I thought she had returned here."
Gimli beamed widely as he listened to this report. "So you and the Lady have finally patched things up, eh?" he said triumphantly. "That is good news, my boy! Splendid news indeed!" He stood up and winked puckishly. "And now you say you two even spent the night together? My, my, that is quite something. You do fast work . . . "
"Gimli, not now all right?" Legolas interrupted impatiently. "Right now I must find her. I am very worried. Do you have any idea of where she is?" He paused and stared around at the empty camp. "Or the others?"
Gimli shrugged. "I am sorry, I cannot help you there." he replied. "Everyone went about his own private businesses this morning, but I am certain they are all just about the area somewhere. None should be too far off."
Legolas frowned as he fell once more into a thoughtful silence. He took a deep breath, suddenly becoming aware that his heart was racing a mile a minute for reasons that were unclear even to him. All he knew was that something was terribly wrong. Something awful was about to happen-he could feel it as though it had taken place already.
"I must find her." he repeated determinedly, gripping tightly the bow in his hand. He was going to locate his fiancée even if he had to turn every tree and stone Amon Hen to do it.
"Legolas, wait! I will go with you." the elf heard Gimli call after him, as he began to storm back in the direction he had just come from.
However, the two friends were not able to get very far when suddenly they stumbled across a sight that drove so much amplified terror into Legolas that he thought he would explode.
"No. . ." he whispered, keen eyes beholding the vision of the Uruk army storming through the forest-the forest where somewhere his princess was on her own, unarmed and defenseless.
* * *
At that same moment, the object of the elf prince's concerns had similar worries of her own. As Armir ran through the woods, darting carefully through the trees in order to stay out of sight, her mind grew heavy with worry and pain. She was frightened for all of her friends. For Boromir, whom she had left behind to fend for himself against that terrible Uruk legion. For Legolas, whom she had left sleeping also by himself. For Frodo, whom . . .
Armir halted in her tracks, her heart suddenly coming to a stand still. Frodo . . . of course! The Uruk-Hai must have been sent here to get Frodo. Or rather, to get the Ring he still carried.
"Oh, no. . ." Armir whispered in horror. If the Ring Bearer were to fall in the hands of those creatures, then it was all over. Middle Erath was doomed.
The young elf clenched her fists, making her decision quickly. Someone just had to make sure that Frodo was able to escape safely, and a strong hunch told her that that person could be no one other than she. She had to find Frodo, and help him.
Even if it meant risking her own safety.
* * *
"Here, Frodo! Hide here!" Pippin hissed, waving his arm urgently to his friend from where he and Merry were hiding behind a massive fallen log further concealed underneath some thick shrubbery.
Frodo shook his head in refusal, hoping the mere look in his face was enough to get his comrades to understand what he intended to do. What he was being forced to do.
He observed as the two hobbits whispered briefly to one another, and was surprised when suddenly Pippin jumped out from their hiding place and began to rush over towards him. Merry promptly followed suit.
"No!" Frodo whispered anxiously, not knowing whether to feel touched by his friends' loyalty or frustrated at their stubbornness.
Then suddenly, the noise of terrible, beastly growls and snarls caused the two hobbits to freeze in their tracks. Frodo stared out from behind the tree where he was hiding and spotted a group of Uruks charging in their direction. He didn't even get a chance to figure out a plan of what to do when suddenly Merry and Pippin began shouting.
"Hey, you! Over here! This way!"
Frodo watched in horror and amazement as his brave comrades drew the attention of the enemies all to themselves, giving him a fool-proof opportunity to escape. The hobbits started to scurry off as fast as their legs could carry them, leading away the pack of chasing Uruks till the coast was clear for the Ring Bearer to come out.
With tears of mixed emotions in his eyes, Frodo hastily got up and ran in the opposite direction, back towards the boats as he had intended. So many people have unselfishly given themselves up just for his safety. Armir, Aragorn, Merry and Pippin. Now, more than ever, he was filled with the determination not to let their sacrifices go to waste. He HAD to get out of there.
Sprinting through the thinning growth of trees, Frodo ignored the fatigue cramping his weary legs and forced himself to keep going. He was almost there . . . he could already make out the camp where they had docked the boats.
At that moment, just as the hobbit was about to break out of the wooded area and into the clearing right by the riverbank, a strident growl reached his ears. He was not even able to react when suddenly a pair of massive, rough hands seized his arm. Frodo cried out in pain and surprise as an Uruk that seemed to have come out of no where yanked him back harshly, its claws digging painfully through his clothes and into his flesh..
His heart thundering wildly in his chest, he struggled as hard as he could, but to no success. The Uruk picked him up and effortlessly heaved him over its shoulder. Though feeling somewhat hopeless in this terrifying situation, Frodo began to shout for help as his captor proceeded to carry him off.
His calls did not fall on deaf ears however, for mere moments after, a newcomer's voice rang out, causing the Uruk to freeze completely in his tracks.
"Wait! Let him go!"
Frodo felt every part of him freeze in place as he recognized the forceful, yet undeniably soft voice. He turned his head to gaze upon his rescuer, and the sight of the figure standing there confirmed what his ears had perceived.
It was Armir.
* * *
Her heart was racing uncontrollably, overcome by a terror she never thought she would ever have to feel before. Struggling to hang on to her resolve and courage, she stared unwaveringly at the huge monster that had turned around to glare at her. The Uruk seemed to be taken aback that it was an elf-maiden who had dared confront him, but this surprise was quickly replaced by a malicious, scornful sneer.
Taking a deep breath, Armir managed to force her next words out without allowing her voice to shake.
"You have the wrong hobbit." she told the Uruk firmly. "He is not the Ring Bearer, therefore he is not the one you seek. Release him."
The Uruk reared its ugly head and roared what was supposed to be an amused laugh. "And why would I listen to the advice and orders of a stupid elf-bitch?" it growled. "I do not care who he is, I will take him anyhow. And if you speak the truth and he is not the one the White Wizard wants, worry not about him going to waste. I am sure he will make us a fine meal."
Armir held back her anger and repulsion at this despicable creature and instead stepped closer. It was with that movement that the Uruk suddenly seemed to take full notice of the elf-maiden's radiant beauty. It bared its teeth in hatred, feeling the natural pangs of hostility creatures of the dark had for creatures of the light. However, at this point Armir had grown far too terrified for Frodo's safety to even consider her own.
"He is an innocent life!" the maiden cried out desperately, disregarding the well-known fact that Uruks had absolutely no concept of compassion. "You will have no real use for him! Just let him be!"
"You forget to whom it is you are speaking with, she-elf!" the Uruk snarled. It reached for its belt and drew out a knife, then began to lumber forward in a menacing advance.
But instead of recoiling in fright at this fearsome gesture, Armir took another step forward to welcome the onslaught, and spoke words that forced their way out of her impulsive mouth.
"If you are so determined to obtain a prisoner, then take me instead!" she declared. "Just let the hobbit go."
The Uruk paused in its tracks, visibly astonished by this rash and foolish offer. But Armir knew that it was a deal not so easily ignored. It was rare that the Uruks had the pleasure of laying their cruel hands on elf maidens, who were usually well-protected by their kin. Any Uruk would find exceedingly greater satisfaction in killing a she-elf than a hobbit.
"And tell me, foolish child, why would you make such a sacrifice of yourself for this halfling?" the Uruk jeered, as it took a few more steps closer. "What is so special about this creature that he is worth your own life?"
It took Armir every ounce of bravery in her to prevent herself from backing away as the Uruk came dangerously near, a mere couple of feet away, well within reach to easily grab her.
"He is my friend." the elf replied softly, giving Frodo a gentle smile before her face hardened with scorn. "And though I know monsters like yourself are incapable of understanding such things, I am willing to do anything for my friends."
The Uruk laughed again. "Noble sentiments indeed." it mocked.
Suddenly, it reached out and grabbed Armir's arm. "It is unfortunate that you are right . . . I am incapable of understanding such things." it snarled. "I shall take both of you. Then, as friends, you can suffer the same fate!"
"No!" Armir screamed, fighting back against the ruthless grip in spite of the pain caused by claws stabbing into her arm.
The maiden's struggle to get free, though futile, caused enough trouble for the Uruk to force him to loosen his grip on Frodo. All of a sudden, the hobbit fell off his captor's shoulder to the ground.
"Get out of here, Frodo!" Armir shouted, noticing the split-second look of tearful hesitation the hobbit threw her. "Please! You must save yourself!"
With a furious growl, the Uruk reached down to recapture Frodo, but was surprised when suddenly the halfling vanished from sight. Armir breathed a sigh of relief as she saw the hobbit escape the same way he had evaded Boromir.
The Uruk let loose a deafening roar of rage when he realized how he had been deceived and outdone. It poured out this wrath as it turned back to the prisoner that had taken place of the one he had lost. It released Armir's arm and swiftly delivered an immense, staggering blow to her face that sent the helpless maiden collapsing weakly to the grass.
Armir barely had time to regain of her senses when suddenly she saw a bright line of silver flash above her in the sunlight. She screamed and uselessly tried to move away before an agonizing pain shot all over her body.
* * *
An enraged cry burst from Legolas' throat as he slashed his knife against the thick neck of one Uruk solider, effectively beheading it. Spinning around swiftly to evade the attack of another enemy, he plunged his other blade through its thick armor and into its gut.
"Where is she?!" The question continued to scream repeatedly in the elf's head as he carried on with the battle. It seemed that the Uruks were coming at him and Gimli from all directions, giving him no chance to break away from the brawl in order to find his lover.
It was the same feeling of helplessness he had experienced that night the orcs attacked them during their river journey. Only this time, Legolas could sense that his fears for Armir seemed to have increased a hundredfold, driving him to state of frenzied panic that made him feel as though he would go mad.
How could this be happening?! How could he be stuck here struggling to fight his way through the mob of Uruk-Hai while in some other part of the wood Armir was most likely alone, unable to fend for herself and therefore in very grave danger? It was almost as though some unknown force was purposely keeping the two of them apart. Now, he was incapable to being at her side to defend her, right when she needed him most.
Legolas let out another shout of released anger and frustration as he decapitated what must have been his tenth Uruk. These monsters will pay dearly. If any of them has dared touch Armir. . .
The mere thought of it sent a terrible visions flashing across the elf prince's mind. His heart nearly stopped beating as he imagined his fiancée in the harmful clutches of these wretched brutes.
"NO!!!"
Powered by terrible fury, the pair of Elven knives flew with doubled speed and deadly accuracy as they brutally massacred one Uruk after another, bringing a slaughtered foe crashing to the ground every few seconds. Legolas' doubled efforts seemed to work, for a few minutes later the number of the Uruk-Hai seemed to gradually lessen, giving him at last an opening for a withdrawal.
"I am coming, Armir." the Mirkwood prince whispered, sheathing his knives before beginning a sprint through the trees as fast as his legs could go.
* * *
Armir raised her head dizzily, striving to stay conscious even with the severe pain shooting from her left shoulder all the way down her arm. Beneath the palm she kept pressed against the deep stab wound on her left shoulder area, she could feel blood trickling out heavily and rapidly. The Uruk had aimed for her heart, but luckily she had moved away just in time before a successful hit could be made.
Not that she was any safer now. She had simply managed to buy some more time for the Uruk to play with her a little before he eventually finished the job.
The maiden groaned and tried to pull herself up, but the sting of her wound was far too insufferable. There was no way she was going to be able to run away from this. Even if she gathered up enough strength to make an attempt, the Uruk will be able catch her for sure anyway.
She closed her eyes wearily, feeling her body begin to succumb to the torture of her injuries. She could hear the Uruk chuckling as it stood before her tauntingly, as though daring her to try to escape. When at last the beast seemed to grow tired of waiting and harassing her, it lowered itself to couch down beside the vulnerable elf.
Armir whimpered as it grabbed her mercilessly by the hair and yanked her head back. She sensed a sharp blade being pressed against her neck, its razor edge maliciously teasing her delicate skin.
"I am going to enjoy cutting you to shreds, she-elf." the Uruk growled gleefully. "Go on, pray to your precious Valar. Maybe somehow they can still save you."
Ignoring these cruel jeers, Armir kept her eyes closed and relaxed her body, ceasing all struggle as she prepared herself for the end. If she was to die, then she was ready to accept it. There seemed to be no stopping it now.
Then, she fell into total darkness.
* * *
A strangled shriek of surprise and pain was all the Uruk-Hai could manage to choke out before its dismembered head rolled to the ground. Before the headless corpse could slump down and fall on the lifeless elf- maiden, a strong hand grabbed it and hauled it back to fall the other way.
His deep breaths coming out in ragged, infuriated bursts, Elladan quickly slid his sword back into its sheath and fell on his knees beside the elf he had just rescued. Overwhelmed with grief and frustration, he gazed down at his beloved daughter as he lifted her up gently into his arms. Her breathing was shallow, but for now it was at least still stable. She seemed to have fallen unconscious from all the terror and pain.
Elladan clenched his jaw as tears began to stream down his cheeks, his entire body shaking as he held his little girl. With paternal tenderness he ran his gentle fingers down the side of her face, taking in the dreadful sight of her bruises.
"Armir . . . " he whispered, leaning over to plant a loving kiss on her forehead before he broke down in controllable sobs.
This was not supposed to happen! How could it happen?! He did not follow her all this time and come all this way from Rivendell just to see her like this. He should never have listened when they told him to keep his distance from her and remain out of her sight. If only he had taken greater care in staying close to watch over her, then this would not have happened!
When he had realized earlier that the Fellowship was being attacked by the Uruk-Hai, he had decided to finally ignore all the warnings he had been receiving from the start about showing himself to Armir. All he wanted to do was to protect his daughter, to just find her and make sure she was safe. But although he had raced frantically all over the forest trying to find her, he simply was unable to locate her anywhere. . . until now, when it was already too late. It was as though some mysterious force had kept them apart, and prevented him from reaching her. Like someone had intended for this to happen.
Just then, the delicate form cradled in the Ranger's arms stirred slightly. Elladan looked down the angelic face pressed against his chest and felt his heart stop beating as a pair of stunning blue eyes slowly fluttered open to gaze up at him. It was as though he was looking into the eyes of his beloved Nurréien once more. It was at that moment that Elladan realized just how irrational he had been in leaving Armir behind. Seeing his wife in the vision of his daughter did not hurt him after all. In fact, he found in Armir a certain joy and peace he never thought he would feel again after Nurréien's death.
"Armir?" Elladan said softly, caressing the maiden's forehead gently. "Armir, it's me."
She blinked slowly as she struggled to clear her vision. It took mere seconds for recognition to overcome and replace the pain and confusion upsetting her beautiful eyes.
"Ada (Papa)?" she whispered, her voice so weak it was barely audible.
An uncontrollable smile burst across Elladan's face at the sound of that word coming from her sweet mouth. He was filled with pride and wonder at the fact that his little girl could still recognize him even though she had not seen him since she was six years old.
"Yes." the elf managed to choke out, stroking her hair tenderly.
"Ada." Armir repeated. A tear glistened at the corner of her eye and dropped down her pale cheek. "I am so glad you are here." She leaned her head back against her father's shoulder as sobs began to shake her pitiful form. "I . . . I have missed you so much."
"As have I, Melamin." Elladan murmured, kissing away the tears that fell from her eyes. "But you do not have to cry anymore. I am here now, and I will not leave you again."
"I . . . I am just happy to see you at last." Armir sighed, reaching up with a frail hand to touch his face. "I have dreamed about this moment for so long. But I have never forgotten your face. You are exactly the way I remember you."
Elladan smiled through his tears and held her closer in his embrace, burying his face in her hair. He wanted to hold her forever, just cradle her in his arms and make up for all the moments he had so foolishly wasted all these years.
"I love you so much, Armir." he wept. "I want you to know that, and never forget it. Your Ada loves you very much."
"And I love you." Armir whispered, stroking his face with her gentle fingers. "I am thankful the Valar brought you to me so I could see you again, and I can be given the chance to tell you that . . . before . . ." Her voice trailed off, but her expression clearly completed what she meant to say.
Elladan felt as though an arrow had been driven clear through his heart as he listened to his only child say these words. Immediately he took her hand and squeezed it firmly.
"No." he told her firmly. "Armir, do not talk like that. You are going to be just fine. I am here now, and I will take care of you."
Without waiting for a reply, Elladan lowered the young elf's body slightly from his embrace so that he would be able to take a closer look at her injury. He gritted his teeth as he saw all the blood that had come out from his daughter's delicate body. But it was a mere shoulder wound. It has not hit any vital organs and therefore should not be fatal . . .
Then suddenly, the elf's keen eyes caught sight of an inky substance that was mixed with the blood that had stained Armir's ripped dress. He touched the stain and took some of the unknown substance on his fingertips. Holding the sample close to his nostrils, he sniffed at it carefully.
The whole world seemed to freeze in that moment when Elladan identified what the substance from the wound was.
Orc poison. She had been stabbed by a poisoned blade.
"Ada . . ."
His daughter's sweet voice drew him from his horrified stupor. Dazed with quickly escalating grief, Elladan looked back down at the child in his arms, his heart shattered by the realization that there was nothing he could to help her now.
"Please take me to Legolas." she whispered, her bright eyes imploring as they stared up at him sadly but bravely. She squeezed her father's hand feebly, begging him to fulfill this urgent request.
"I must see him . . . one last time."
* * *
COMING UP . . . Final Chapter - FOREVER
Uh, oh. I'm sure a lot of you have a lot comments or violent reactions to share. (Some of you may even be feeling a little hostile towards me right now. . .don't blame you!) Feel free to fire away on the review list! I'm expecting it! Hehehe. . . ;p
And yes, Elladan, WAS that mysterious elf mentioned at the beginning to the previous chapter, the one who has talking to Lord Celeborn.
See you at the grand finale! (Give me about a week . . . ) ;p Thanks so much for coming!
*Author is far too exhausted to say much today. It's midnight and she still has English finals to face tomorrow. ;p She would, however, like to THANK EVERYONE (100 times over) who reviewed the last chapter and hope they will like this one just as much. She will make up for the lousy greetings next time.*
Get ready for an action-packed ride ahead! ;p Enjoy!
HAPPY READING!
* * *
THE SACRIFICE
Chapter Fourteen - Rescues
Armir woke up the next morning to the sound of a gentle wind blowing through the tree branches shading her from above. She smiled and closed her eyes, breathing in the smells of the new day. It was as though the world had never seemed more beautiful to her senses than it did at that one moment.
With a contented sigh, the young maiden delicately lay back and returned her head to its comfortable place upon her lover's warm chest. She smothered a giggle as she observed the contented smile on Legolas' lips while he remained unconscious, still caught up in his deep slumber. He looked so adorable, so sweet and innocent, with that look of peace and bliss on his face.
Though it seemed a little queer that her energetic and spirited guardian would be so tired as to sleep in even longer than she has, she had no intention of disturbing him in his rest. After all, he really did deserve the time out.
Armir snuggled her delicate form cozily against Legolas' well-built frame, fitting her body easily into his, like two opposites made to complement each other. She closed her eyes wistfully, wishing that she could freeze this moment of pure bliss and relish it for all eternity. But she knew that this was, of course, impossible. The world was not perfect, and it did not consist of just Legolas and she, though last night, wrapped in his tender embrace, Armir had nearly forgotten this truth altogether.
The reminder that there was still a quest to be faced now weighed down heavily on the maiden more than ever. On the other hand, the fears and worries that have haunted her over the past days had also lessened drastically. Armir smiled fondly at the sleeping elf beside her. As long as she was with him, she knew she would find the strength to cope with anything. Legolas' mere presence made her feel a hundred times stronger and braver than she really was.
Armir lay there for a few more minutes before finally deciding to get up and start the morning. She wanted to freshen up a bit first before returning to the others back at camp. They must be very worried about her, since last night she just left without telling anyone where she was going. It was likely that they figured out she had spent the night with Legolas, but just the same she wanted to assure them she was all right.
Very carefully, as so not to wake him up, she retracted herself from Legolas' arms and slowly lifted herself up to her knees. She crouched down beside him and took a moment to once again contemplate his remarkable beauty. Pride and joy swelled in her heart as she gazed at him, her beloved, her treasure. It was still difficult to believe that this stunning elf loved her, and wanted to bind himself to her. What could she have done to deserve such a perfect mate? It just seemed too good to be true.
"I love you." she whispered softly, running her fingers gently through the golden hair that spilled down his shoulder. "So much."
As soon as these words left her lips, Legolas muttered faintly as he slightly stirred in his sleep. Though he still did not open his eyes nor wake, Armir could see the approval appear on his uncontrolled expression at her love-filled statement. Though his hearing may not have really picked up the sound of her voice, it was as though his soul had nonetheless received her message.
Armir smiled. "Just sleep, Melamin." she murmured lovingly, stroking his milky skin with a tender, graceful hand. "I shall be back soon."
With that, she kissed his cheek and eyelids for the last time before rising to her feet at last. She reached down and picked up the outer cloak she had shed during the night, wrapping it snugly around her shoulders before heading off.
As the young maiden strolled alone through the forest in search of the stream she was certain she had passed the previous night, something in her blissful mood seemed to change all of a sudden. As she stared up at the tall trees that surrounded her, she felt something strange in the way the winds suddenly shifted, and the way the boughs of the great beeches swayed with them. She noticed too that the woods had grown especially quiet, the sinister sort of silence that gave one discomfort instead of peace.
Armir frowned, her fair face clouding with sudden worry. Something was obviously amiss. And if there was one thing she had definitely learned by now, it was that she was never wrong when it came to intuitions.
She walked on for a few more minutes, keeping a wary eye on her surroundings. She had not gone a very long way off when suddenly she heard familiar voices in the distance. She stopped in her tracks to listen carefully and figure out where they were coming from.
"I know why you seek solitude. You suffer, I see it day by day. Be sure you do not suffer needlessly. There are other ways, Frodo, other paths we might take."
Boromir. . . and Frodo.
Armir quickened her step towards the direction of the voices, keeping a sharp ear on the conversation that seemed to be growing more into an argument each moment.
"I know what you would say, and it would sound like wisdom, but for the warning in my heart."
"Warning? Against what? We are all afraid Frodo, but to let that fear drive us to destroy what hope we have... don't you see? It's madness!"
At last, she reached a clearing where she caught sight of her two comrades locked in their heated exchange. Both seemed to be too caught up in their dialogue to notice her silent arrival. For a moment, the elf could only stand frozen and watch, hesitant as whether or not to intervene between the man and hobbit.
"I ask only for the strength to defend my people!" Boromir shouted, his voice rising due to a self-control that seemed to have finally failed. He threw down the pile of kindling in his arms and took a step closer towards Frodo with an outstretched hand. "If you would but lend me the ring. . . "
"No!" Frodo refused firmly, moving back to prevent the man from coming too near. Armir could note the unyielding determination in his face, but in spite of his courage, she could also sense a mounting fear in his heart. Not that he could be blamed for this dread-the queer expression on Boromir's face as he approached him was undeniably disconcerting.
The man seemed to take offense in Frodo's moving away from him. "Why do you recoil? I am no thief!"
"You are not yourself!" Frodo responded.
Boromir dropped his arm and spoke with an even harsher tone that caused chills to run through Armir's spine. "What chance do you think you have? They will find you, they will take the ring, and you will beg for death before the end!"
Armir's eyes widened with alarm as she listened to these threatening words. This did not sound good at all. Boromir was starting to sound ominously dangerous.
Frodo seemed to notice this impending peril as well, for Armir saw him turn and begin to walk away from Boromir, without even attempting a reply for the man's intimidation. Boromir however, was not willing to be brushed off so easily. Immediately he started after Frodo, his long strides giving him sure advantage over the hobbit.
"It is not yours save by a happenstance! It could have been mine! It should have been mine!" he shouted, eyes gleaming with anger and greed that was malicious but uncharacteristic. "Give it to me!"
"No!"
Armir gasped in horror as Boromir suddenly lunged himself at the hobbit, tackling him to the ground in uncontrolled fury. Instincts took effect as the elf broke into a frantic run, hurrying towards the two figures wresting on the ground before it was too late.
* * *
Frodo struggled for breath as Boromir's strong hands gripped down tightly around his neck. He tried to struggle, but was powerless against the man's superior strength and uncanny fury. The terror in the hobbit's heart increased rapidly as it became obvious that this man, who was supposed to be one of his protectors, was now intent on killing him.
In spite of the fact that he was ready to pass out from lack of air, Frodo fought back as hard as he could, striving to keep the ring that hung around his neck away from Boromir's violent grasp. As the man clawed at his neck greedily, Frodo kept the golden hoop clutched tightly within his two hands. Keeping one powerful hand clamped around the halfling's neck, Boromir used the other to try to pry open Frodo's fists in order to get the ring.
Frodo's eyes rolled as he began to choke from the excruciating suffocation. His instincts told him to put the ring on so that he can turn invisible and get the chance to escape, but it was too risky. One little opening of his fists would be sufficient for Boromir to take it for his own, and that would certainly be the end of everything.
Frodo tried to scream for help, but Boromir's fingers pressed so hard and painfully against his esophagus that all that could escape his throat were smothered croaks. The hobbit's heart sank. Unless aided, he was going to die in Boromir's mad clutches for sure.
Just when he was about to black out, Frodo sensed someone approach and a voice cry out his name.
* * *
"Boromir, stop! You are killing him!" Armir screamed.
The maiden reached down, grabbed the crazed Boromir's arm, and struggled to yank his hefty frame off a nearly unconscious Frodo. Even as she used all of her strength, she was unable to budge the heavyset man an inch, but nonetheless she succeeded in at least distracting him.
As Boromir turned his head to look over his shoulder at her, he ceased his attempts at breaking open the hobbit's fists. Frodo seemed to have taken advantage of this opportunity to put on the ring, for in a split moment he vanished from their sights. Boromir fell to the ground with a cry as an invisible figure slipped out from under him.
Armir watched as movement in the leaves covering the ground marked the Ring Bearer's hasty departure.
"Run, Frodo!" she cried out to the air. "Run away!"
At that moment, she heard a low growl come from behind her. With heavy pounding in her chest, Armir turned back around to face Boromir as he rose slowly to his feet, suddenly looming menacingly over her.
"Stupid maiden!" he snarled, the glare he was giving her driving more terror into Armir's heart. "Now the traitor has escaped, all thanks to you!"
"Boromir, get a hold of yourself! Please!" Armir begged desperately, backing away from the advancing man. "The Ring has taken control of you, but you must fight it!"
"Do you not understand? Frodo is the evil one!" Boromir shouted furiously. "He will take the ring to Sauron! He will betray us! He will go to his death, and the death of us all!"
His eyes flashed treacherously. "And it is all your fault, you meddlesome elf!"
"Boromir . . " Armir began, but did not get far when the enraged man abruptly raised his hand, and she was caught by surprise with a sharp blow striking her right temple. Armir groaned as an agonizing pain and dizziness washed all over her head, and she felt herself slump down to the ground before everything suddenly went black.
* * *
When Legolas woke up, the first realization that came to his consciousness was that Armir's soft, warm body was no longer anywhere near him. This perception caused him to sit up with a start and gaze frantically around him. Where was she? How long has she been gone?
Legolas frowned and shook his somewhat still groggy head. Gazing up at the brightly lit morning sky, he could tell that a few hours have already passed since sunrise. This fact disconcerted him greatly, for he could not remember the last time he had slept in so late. Usually he was up and about even before the first rays of dawn appeared, so it was strange indeed how he could have slept so soundly for so many hours.
A small smile momentarily broke through the elf's anxious state as he recalled the previous evening's pleasures which resulted in the wonderful dreams that occupied his sleep. In his two thousand years of existence, he had never experienced such a great amount of joy and peace as he did when he held Armir in his arms last night. Right then, he knew that what he had been seeking in his life all along was her. He came to the sure realization that the very purpose of his being was to love that beautiful maiden.
With a sigh, the elf prince picked up his shirt and outer tunic as he rose to his feet. But where was she? He continued to ponder over this question as he dressed. She must have awoken much earlier than he and had gotten impatient, thus she left for a while to go back to the others.
Legolas nodded as he finished strapping on his belt. Yes, that must be it. It was a reasonable explanation. All he had to do then was return to the Fellowship's camp near the river, and he would find her there with the rest of their companions.
Keeping these assuring thoughts in mind, the elf shouldered his weapons and started making his way back to the riverside. As he went on his walk however, new feelings began to grow on him as some ominous aura seemed to radiate from his surroundings. At one point, he paused in his tracks and listened carefully to the sounds of the winds as it blew through the trees. Nature seemed to be whispering words of caution to him, warnings of something that was soon to come.
Legolas eyes narrowed. This feeling was greatly familiar to him. It was the gut-sensation that would grow in his stomach and foretell the arrival of enemies right before an attack.
Upon realizing this, the Mirkwood prince broke into a swift run, his thoughts completely on his unguarded beloved.
"Please be there, my love." Legolas prayed, as he darted through the trees, speeding towards camp. "Please be safe."
* * *
"Would you destroy it?"
Frodo watched with halted breath as Aragorn approached his outstretched hand, where the One Ring lay open for his easy taking. However, his worries quickly morphed into relief and happiness when would be King of Gondor went down on his knee and closed Frodo's hand up to cover the ring.
"I would have gone with you to the end." Isildur's Heir told him seriously, his warm eyes reflecting the faithfulness of his upright soul. "To the very fires of Mordor."
Frodo felt his eyes grow moist, touched with fondness for this man, who was by far the most noble-hearted friend he had ever met. Not only did the Ranger have the strength and goodness to resist the wiles of Sauron, but he also understood why the Ring Bearer had to do what he planned to do.
"I know." the hobbit said softly. "Take care of the others, especially Sam. He would not understand."
Aragorn nodded, and opened his mouth as though he meant to say more, but suddenly his eyes were distracted by something. Suddenly, he stood and drew his sword, backing away from the hobbit.
Taken aback by his abrupt movements, Frodo drew out Sting. He stared down in horror at the brightly glowing blade just as he heard Aragorn shout urgently to him.
"Run!"
* * *
"Armir? Armir!"
Boromir shook the maiden's shoulders gently but firmly, desperate to get her to open her eyes. Tears stung the corners of his own as he observed the severe bruise he had inflicted on the fair maiden's head by striking her. He had managed to free himself from his state of temporary madness only upon seeing Armir fall to the ground, knocked out by the viciousness of his blow.
Boromir gently caressed the princess' face with a shaking hand. What could have possibly possessed him to hurt her like this? She had tried to save Frodo from death by his hands, and because of that a strange and overwhelming anger had seized him, compelling him to lash out at her uncontrollably. He had come so close to making the mort devastating mistake of his life, and all because he allowed himself to become intoxicated with pride and greed. He had succumbed to the temptations of the Shadow, and had seriously jeopardized the future of the entire Middle Earth.
As the man agonized over these troubling thoughts, Armir stirred in his arms at last. Boromir felt his heart rise with relief as the elf stared up at him with weary, but nonetheless clear blue eyes.
"Boromir?' Armir murmured, squinting her eyes as she gazed up at his face. Then, as if recalling what had just happened, she sat up and shrank back from him, the fear on her innocent face cutting through Boromir like a blade.
"Armir, it is all right." Boromir said quickly. "I was overcome by some madness, but I am better now. It is over. I will not hurt you again, I swear it."
His anxious assurances seemed to be enough to convince the elf, for she moved back closer to him as she stared up at his distraught face. "Boromir." she whispered, reaching out to touch his arm. "What happened?"
The kindness in her voice made the guilt festering in Boromir's heart hurt a thousand times over. He broke down in tears, burying his face in his hands to hide in his shame. "I know not what evil possessed me! All I know is that I curse myself for falling into it so easily." he wept. "I have been such a weak, blind fool, and for that I beg your forgiveness!"
All at once, he felt soft, gentle arms wrap him up in a comforting embrace, a compassionate gesture that instantly calmed the grief that tore at his spirit.
"It was not your fault, Mellonin." Armir whispered. "The Shadow is not an easy foe to withstand. I am just glad that you are all right now, and so is Frodo."
As the Elven princess spoke these words, and as he felt the courage and strength return to him upon feeling her caring hold, only then did the man of Gondor finally understand why Lord Elrond of Rivendell had sent his only grandchild on their quest.
Just then, strange sounds drew Boromir's attention from the moment at hand. Retracting from Armir, he ran his gaze suspiciously at their surroundings and caught sight of some movement beyond the distant trees. Though his sights could not clearly distinguish was it was that was approaching, the heavy footsteps and raucous growls were enough to confirm his fears.
"Uruk-hai!" he muttered, rising to his feet immediately and drawing out his sword. The time to redeem himself has come quickly. "We are under attack!"
Taking the Rivendell princess by the hand, he helped her up to her feet. He chose to ignore the terror that was escalating on her face and turned away from her.
"Go, Armir! I will make sure they will not go after you." he ordered, his voice remaining forcible and calm in spite of the knowing feeling of impending disaster shaking up his insides. "Find a safe place to hide. Go to Legolas and the others!"
"No, I will not leave you!" Armir cried out in panic.
"You must!" Boromir shouted back indomitably. "If I am to save you, I cannot have you here! Please, my Lady, I beg you! You must go now!"
Much to his relief, Armir did not insist on being stubborn. After throwing him one last look of hesitation, the maiden turned and ran off through the trees, just as the first Uruk stepped out into view, to be promptly followed by another . . . and another.
Boromir inhaled deeply and held up his sword, narrowing his eyes to glare at his approaching challengers. "This is for you, Frodo." he whispered, before beginning a brave charge towards the growing stream of monsters coming close for the strike.
* * *
"Where is Armir?!"
Gimli looked up with a start at the frantic elf that burst out from behind the forest undergrowth to stand before him. The distraught look on his elf-friend's face instantly caused him to share in his worry.
"What are you talking about, Laddie?" the dwarf responded, his brow ceasing with confusion. "We assumed she was with you!"
"She was, but that was last night!" Legolas exclaimed in mounting panic. "This morning when I woke up, she was no longer at my side. I thought she had returned here."
Gimli beamed widely as he listened to this report. "So you and the Lady have finally patched things up, eh?" he said triumphantly. "That is good news, my boy! Splendid news indeed!" He stood up and winked puckishly. "And now you say you two even spent the night together? My, my, that is quite something. You do fast work . . . "
"Gimli, not now all right?" Legolas interrupted impatiently. "Right now I must find her. I am very worried. Do you have any idea of where she is?" He paused and stared around at the empty camp. "Or the others?"
Gimli shrugged. "I am sorry, I cannot help you there." he replied. "Everyone went about his own private businesses this morning, but I am certain they are all just about the area somewhere. None should be too far off."
Legolas frowned as he fell once more into a thoughtful silence. He took a deep breath, suddenly becoming aware that his heart was racing a mile a minute for reasons that were unclear even to him. All he knew was that something was terribly wrong. Something awful was about to happen-he could feel it as though it had taken place already.
"I must find her." he repeated determinedly, gripping tightly the bow in his hand. He was going to locate his fiancée even if he had to turn every tree and stone Amon Hen to do it.
"Legolas, wait! I will go with you." the elf heard Gimli call after him, as he began to storm back in the direction he had just come from.
However, the two friends were not able to get very far when suddenly they stumbled across a sight that drove so much amplified terror into Legolas that he thought he would explode.
"No. . ." he whispered, keen eyes beholding the vision of the Uruk army storming through the forest-the forest where somewhere his princess was on her own, unarmed and defenseless.
* * *
At that same moment, the object of the elf prince's concerns had similar worries of her own. As Armir ran through the woods, darting carefully through the trees in order to stay out of sight, her mind grew heavy with worry and pain. She was frightened for all of her friends. For Boromir, whom she had left behind to fend for himself against that terrible Uruk legion. For Legolas, whom she had left sleeping also by himself. For Frodo, whom . . .
Armir halted in her tracks, her heart suddenly coming to a stand still. Frodo . . . of course! The Uruk-Hai must have been sent here to get Frodo. Or rather, to get the Ring he still carried.
"Oh, no. . ." Armir whispered in horror. If the Ring Bearer were to fall in the hands of those creatures, then it was all over. Middle Erath was doomed.
The young elf clenched her fists, making her decision quickly. Someone just had to make sure that Frodo was able to escape safely, and a strong hunch told her that that person could be no one other than she. She had to find Frodo, and help him.
Even if it meant risking her own safety.
* * *
"Here, Frodo! Hide here!" Pippin hissed, waving his arm urgently to his friend from where he and Merry were hiding behind a massive fallen log further concealed underneath some thick shrubbery.
Frodo shook his head in refusal, hoping the mere look in his face was enough to get his comrades to understand what he intended to do. What he was being forced to do.
He observed as the two hobbits whispered briefly to one another, and was surprised when suddenly Pippin jumped out from their hiding place and began to rush over towards him. Merry promptly followed suit.
"No!" Frodo whispered anxiously, not knowing whether to feel touched by his friends' loyalty or frustrated at their stubbornness.
Then suddenly, the noise of terrible, beastly growls and snarls caused the two hobbits to freeze in their tracks. Frodo stared out from behind the tree where he was hiding and spotted a group of Uruks charging in their direction. He didn't even get a chance to figure out a plan of what to do when suddenly Merry and Pippin began shouting.
"Hey, you! Over here! This way!"
Frodo watched in horror and amazement as his brave comrades drew the attention of the enemies all to themselves, giving him a fool-proof opportunity to escape. The hobbits started to scurry off as fast as their legs could carry them, leading away the pack of chasing Uruks till the coast was clear for the Ring Bearer to come out.
With tears of mixed emotions in his eyes, Frodo hastily got up and ran in the opposite direction, back towards the boats as he had intended. So many people have unselfishly given themselves up just for his safety. Armir, Aragorn, Merry and Pippin. Now, more than ever, he was filled with the determination not to let their sacrifices go to waste. He HAD to get out of there.
Sprinting through the thinning growth of trees, Frodo ignored the fatigue cramping his weary legs and forced himself to keep going. He was almost there . . . he could already make out the camp where they had docked the boats.
At that moment, just as the hobbit was about to break out of the wooded area and into the clearing right by the riverbank, a strident growl reached his ears. He was not even able to react when suddenly a pair of massive, rough hands seized his arm. Frodo cried out in pain and surprise as an Uruk that seemed to have come out of no where yanked him back harshly, its claws digging painfully through his clothes and into his flesh..
His heart thundering wildly in his chest, he struggled as hard as he could, but to no success. The Uruk picked him up and effortlessly heaved him over its shoulder. Though feeling somewhat hopeless in this terrifying situation, Frodo began to shout for help as his captor proceeded to carry him off.
His calls did not fall on deaf ears however, for mere moments after, a newcomer's voice rang out, causing the Uruk to freeze completely in his tracks.
"Wait! Let him go!"
Frodo felt every part of him freeze in place as he recognized the forceful, yet undeniably soft voice. He turned his head to gaze upon his rescuer, and the sight of the figure standing there confirmed what his ears had perceived.
It was Armir.
* * *
Her heart was racing uncontrollably, overcome by a terror she never thought she would ever have to feel before. Struggling to hang on to her resolve and courage, she stared unwaveringly at the huge monster that had turned around to glare at her. The Uruk seemed to be taken aback that it was an elf-maiden who had dared confront him, but this surprise was quickly replaced by a malicious, scornful sneer.
Taking a deep breath, Armir managed to force her next words out without allowing her voice to shake.
"You have the wrong hobbit." she told the Uruk firmly. "He is not the Ring Bearer, therefore he is not the one you seek. Release him."
The Uruk reared its ugly head and roared what was supposed to be an amused laugh. "And why would I listen to the advice and orders of a stupid elf-bitch?" it growled. "I do not care who he is, I will take him anyhow. And if you speak the truth and he is not the one the White Wizard wants, worry not about him going to waste. I am sure he will make us a fine meal."
Armir held back her anger and repulsion at this despicable creature and instead stepped closer. It was with that movement that the Uruk suddenly seemed to take full notice of the elf-maiden's radiant beauty. It bared its teeth in hatred, feeling the natural pangs of hostility creatures of the dark had for creatures of the light. However, at this point Armir had grown far too terrified for Frodo's safety to even consider her own.
"He is an innocent life!" the maiden cried out desperately, disregarding the well-known fact that Uruks had absolutely no concept of compassion. "You will have no real use for him! Just let him be!"
"You forget to whom it is you are speaking with, she-elf!" the Uruk snarled. It reached for its belt and drew out a knife, then began to lumber forward in a menacing advance.
But instead of recoiling in fright at this fearsome gesture, Armir took another step forward to welcome the onslaught, and spoke words that forced their way out of her impulsive mouth.
"If you are so determined to obtain a prisoner, then take me instead!" she declared. "Just let the hobbit go."
The Uruk paused in its tracks, visibly astonished by this rash and foolish offer. But Armir knew that it was a deal not so easily ignored. It was rare that the Uruks had the pleasure of laying their cruel hands on elf maidens, who were usually well-protected by their kin. Any Uruk would find exceedingly greater satisfaction in killing a she-elf than a hobbit.
"And tell me, foolish child, why would you make such a sacrifice of yourself for this halfling?" the Uruk jeered, as it took a few more steps closer. "What is so special about this creature that he is worth your own life?"
It took Armir every ounce of bravery in her to prevent herself from backing away as the Uruk came dangerously near, a mere couple of feet away, well within reach to easily grab her.
"He is my friend." the elf replied softly, giving Frodo a gentle smile before her face hardened with scorn. "And though I know monsters like yourself are incapable of understanding such things, I am willing to do anything for my friends."
The Uruk laughed again. "Noble sentiments indeed." it mocked.
Suddenly, it reached out and grabbed Armir's arm. "It is unfortunate that you are right . . . I am incapable of understanding such things." it snarled. "I shall take both of you. Then, as friends, you can suffer the same fate!"
"No!" Armir screamed, fighting back against the ruthless grip in spite of the pain caused by claws stabbing into her arm.
The maiden's struggle to get free, though futile, caused enough trouble for the Uruk to force him to loosen his grip on Frodo. All of a sudden, the hobbit fell off his captor's shoulder to the ground.
"Get out of here, Frodo!" Armir shouted, noticing the split-second look of tearful hesitation the hobbit threw her. "Please! You must save yourself!"
With a furious growl, the Uruk reached down to recapture Frodo, but was surprised when suddenly the halfling vanished from sight. Armir breathed a sigh of relief as she saw the hobbit escape the same way he had evaded Boromir.
The Uruk let loose a deafening roar of rage when he realized how he had been deceived and outdone. It poured out this wrath as it turned back to the prisoner that had taken place of the one he had lost. It released Armir's arm and swiftly delivered an immense, staggering blow to her face that sent the helpless maiden collapsing weakly to the grass.
Armir barely had time to regain of her senses when suddenly she saw a bright line of silver flash above her in the sunlight. She screamed and uselessly tried to move away before an agonizing pain shot all over her body.
* * *
An enraged cry burst from Legolas' throat as he slashed his knife against the thick neck of one Uruk solider, effectively beheading it. Spinning around swiftly to evade the attack of another enemy, he plunged his other blade through its thick armor and into its gut.
"Where is she?!" The question continued to scream repeatedly in the elf's head as he carried on with the battle. It seemed that the Uruks were coming at him and Gimli from all directions, giving him no chance to break away from the brawl in order to find his lover.
It was the same feeling of helplessness he had experienced that night the orcs attacked them during their river journey. Only this time, Legolas could sense that his fears for Armir seemed to have increased a hundredfold, driving him to state of frenzied panic that made him feel as though he would go mad.
How could this be happening?! How could he be stuck here struggling to fight his way through the mob of Uruk-Hai while in some other part of the wood Armir was most likely alone, unable to fend for herself and therefore in very grave danger? It was almost as though some unknown force was purposely keeping the two of them apart. Now, he was incapable to being at her side to defend her, right when she needed him most.
Legolas let out another shout of released anger and frustration as he decapitated what must have been his tenth Uruk. These monsters will pay dearly. If any of them has dared touch Armir. . .
The mere thought of it sent a terrible visions flashing across the elf prince's mind. His heart nearly stopped beating as he imagined his fiancée in the harmful clutches of these wretched brutes.
"NO!!!"
Powered by terrible fury, the pair of Elven knives flew with doubled speed and deadly accuracy as they brutally massacred one Uruk after another, bringing a slaughtered foe crashing to the ground every few seconds. Legolas' doubled efforts seemed to work, for a few minutes later the number of the Uruk-Hai seemed to gradually lessen, giving him at last an opening for a withdrawal.
"I am coming, Armir." the Mirkwood prince whispered, sheathing his knives before beginning a sprint through the trees as fast as his legs could go.
* * *
Armir raised her head dizzily, striving to stay conscious even with the severe pain shooting from her left shoulder all the way down her arm. Beneath the palm she kept pressed against the deep stab wound on her left shoulder area, she could feel blood trickling out heavily and rapidly. The Uruk had aimed for her heart, but luckily she had moved away just in time before a successful hit could be made.
Not that she was any safer now. She had simply managed to buy some more time for the Uruk to play with her a little before he eventually finished the job.
The maiden groaned and tried to pull herself up, but the sting of her wound was far too insufferable. There was no way she was going to be able to run away from this. Even if she gathered up enough strength to make an attempt, the Uruk will be able catch her for sure anyway.
She closed her eyes wearily, feeling her body begin to succumb to the torture of her injuries. She could hear the Uruk chuckling as it stood before her tauntingly, as though daring her to try to escape. When at last the beast seemed to grow tired of waiting and harassing her, it lowered itself to couch down beside the vulnerable elf.
Armir whimpered as it grabbed her mercilessly by the hair and yanked her head back. She sensed a sharp blade being pressed against her neck, its razor edge maliciously teasing her delicate skin.
"I am going to enjoy cutting you to shreds, she-elf." the Uruk growled gleefully. "Go on, pray to your precious Valar. Maybe somehow they can still save you."
Ignoring these cruel jeers, Armir kept her eyes closed and relaxed her body, ceasing all struggle as she prepared herself for the end. If she was to die, then she was ready to accept it. There seemed to be no stopping it now.
Then, she fell into total darkness.
* * *
A strangled shriek of surprise and pain was all the Uruk-Hai could manage to choke out before its dismembered head rolled to the ground. Before the headless corpse could slump down and fall on the lifeless elf- maiden, a strong hand grabbed it and hauled it back to fall the other way.
His deep breaths coming out in ragged, infuriated bursts, Elladan quickly slid his sword back into its sheath and fell on his knees beside the elf he had just rescued. Overwhelmed with grief and frustration, he gazed down at his beloved daughter as he lifted her up gently into his arms. Her breathing was shallow, but for now it was at least still stable. She seemed to have fallen unconscious from all the terror and pain.
Elladan clenched his jaw as tears began to stream down his cheeks, his entire body shaking as he held his little girl. With paternal tenderness he ran his gentle fingers down the side of her face, taking in the dreadful sight of her bruises.
"Armir . . . " he whispered, leaning over to plant a loving kiss on her forehead before he broke down in controllable sobs.
This was not supposed to happen! How could it happen?! He did not follow her all this time and come all this way from Rivendell just to see her like this. He should never have listened when they told him to keep his distance from her and remain out of her sight. If only he had taken greater care in staying close to watch over her, then this would not have happened!
When he had realized earlier that the Fellowship was being attacked by the Uruk-Hai, he had decided to finally ignore all the warnings he had been receiving from the start about showing himself to Armir. All he wanted to do was to protect his daughter, to just find her and make sure she was safe. But although he had raced frantically all over the forest trying to find her, he simply was unable to locate her anywhere. . . until now, when it was already too late. It was as though some mysterious force had kept them apart, and prevented him from reaching her. Like someone had intended for this to happen.
Just then, the delicate form cradled in the Ranger's arms stirred slightly. Elladan looked down the angelic face pressed against his chest and felt his heart stop beating as a pair of stunning blue eyes slowly fluttered open to gaze up at him. It was as though he was looking into the eyes of his beloved Nurréien once more. It was at that moment that Elladan realized just how irrational he had been in leaving Armir behind. Seeing his wife in the vision of his daughter did not hurt him after all. In fact, he found in Armir a certain joy and peace he never thought he would feel again after Nurréien's death.
"Armir?" Elladan said softly, caressing the maiden's forehead gently. "Armir, it's me."
She blinked slowly as she struggled to clear her vision. It took mere seconds for recognition to overcome and replace the pain and confusion upsetting her beautiful eyes.
"Ada (Papa)?" she whispered, her voice so weak it was barely audible.
An uncontrollable smile burst across Elladan's face at the sound of that word coming from her sweet mouth. He was filled with pride and wonder at the fact that his little girl could still recognize him even though she had not seen him since she was six years old.
"Yes." the elf managed to choke out, stroking her hair tenderly.
"Ada." Armir repeated. A tear glistened at the corner of her eye and dropped down her pale cheek. "I am so glad you are here." She leaned her head back against her father's shoulder as sobs began to shake her pitiful form. "I . . . I have missed you so much."
"As have I, Melamin." Elladan murmured, kissing away the tears that fell from her eyes. "But you do not have to cry anymore. I am here now, and I will not leave you again."
"I . . . I am just happy to see you at last." Armir sighed, reaching up with a frail hand to touch his face. "I have dreamed about this moment for so long. But I have never forgotten your face. You are exactly the way I remember you."
Elladan smiled through his tears and held her closer in his embrace, burying his face in her hair. He wanted to hold her forever, just cradle her in his arms and make up for all the moments he had so foolishly wasted all these years.
"I love you so much, Armir." he wept. "I want you to know that, and never forget it. Your Ada loves you very much."
"And I love you." Armir whispered, stroking his face with her gentle fingers. "I am thankful the Valar brought you to me so I could see you again, and I can be given the chance to tell you that . . . before . . ." Her voice trailed off, but her expression clearly completed what she meant to say.
Elladan felt as though an arrow had been driven clear through his heart as he listened to his only child say these words. Immediately he took her hand and squeezed it firmly.
"No." he told her firmly. "Armir, do not talk like that. You are going to be just fine. I am here now, and I will take care of you."
Without waiting for a reply, Elladan lowered the young elf's body slightly from his embrace so that he would be able to take a closer look at her injury. He gritted his teeth as he saw all the blood that had come out from his daughter's delicate body. But it was a mere shoulder wound. It has not hit any vital organs and therefore should not be fatal . . .
Then suddenly, the elf's keen eyes caught sight of an inky substance that was mixed with the blood that had stained Armir's ripped dress. He touched the stain and took some of the unknown substance on his fingertips. Holding the sample close to his nostrils, he sniffed at it carefully.
The whole world seemed to freeze in that moment when Elladan identified what the substance from the wound was.
Orc poison. She had been stabbed by a poisoned blade.
"Ada . . ."
His daughter's sweet voice drew him from his horrified stupor. Dazed with quickly escalating grief, Elladan looked back down at the child in his arms, his heart shattered by the realization that there was nothing he could to help her now.
"Please take me to Legolas." she whispered, her bright eyes imploring as they stared up at him sadly but bravely. She squeezed her father's hand feebly, begging him to fulfill this urgent request.
"I must see him . . . one last time."
* * *
COMING UP . . . Final Chapter - FOREVER
Uh, oh. I'm sure a lot of you have a lot comments or violent reactions to share. (Some of you may even be feeling a little hostile towards me right now. . .don't blame you!) Feel free to fire away on the review list! I'm expecting it! Hehehe. . . ;p
And yes, Elladan, WAS that mysterious elf mentioned at the beginning to the previous chapter, the one who has talking to Lord Celeborn.
See you at the grand finale! (Give me about a week . . . ) ;p Thanks so much for coming!