Chapter Eight: Breathtaking Confessions
"You have not been sleeping for a week!" Legolas argued one morning. I stood by the window, my back to him.
"Two," I correctly softly, although I am sure he heard. "Or was it three?" Over the past couple weeks, our time together had mainly been spent him trying to teach me the language of humans and enjoying each others company. I clung to each day as if it were my last, despite Legolas' disapproval. I turned and addressed him. "You do not rest either."
"Elves do not require rest every night, but humans will weaken. You must keep your strength up to heal."
"I am healed! I am fine!"
"You call losing consciousness while standing fine?" he asked, stepping toward me.
"I passed out, all right? It was nothing."
"And what of the memory lapses you have been having lately?"
"They will cease soon. They have been lessening since the day after you found me." As soon as the words came out, I regretted them. Legolas looked at me and took another step forward.
"Ever since the day after I found you? This does not have to do with your injury, correct?"
I looked to the floor, avoiding his gaze. "Incorrect. It does."
"You never did tell me what happened," he realized, taking another step.
I sighed, "I passed out from exhaustion and hit my head on a rock."
"When you awoke..." Legolas started, trying to get me to finish.
"I had no memory of the recent past," I admitted.
He took the last few strides toward me. "Aluhin, why did you not tell me?"
"I had not the heart to tell you I did not remember you."
"This is why you did not use my name and were uneasy about how to act around me."
"You noticed?" I asked, looking up.
"I noticed."
"I apologize." My eyes fell to the floor again, only to be stopped by light fingers again.
"There is no need. It was not your fault." He paused before adding, "I deserved it for how I treated you."
I nodded before opening my mouth to protest as he withdrew his hand. I looked into his eyes and soon lost my train of thought. Ever since my first nightmare and the day he held me, his eyes had constantly been a dark shade of blue. I had questioned him about it and he said since his bloodline concealed their emotions so well, they showed through their eyes. I asked him what each color meant and he answered he did not know. Although I was sure he did, I let the matter drop.
I had realized over the past week that I could not live without him. He was the only living one who cared about me. He had given me so much and I loved him for it. I only wished I could repay him.
He smiled and I returned it along with a question. "What do you ha--" I was cut of by a knock on the door. We were in Legolas' room and I quickly figured who the elf on the other side could be.
Legolas' eyes quickly turned brown and he mouthed 'hide.' I scurried as quietly as I could and entered in the armoire Legolas pointed to before I watched him head for the door.
"Good morn, father. May I inquire as to the occasion?"
"I was coming to question you on your recent absences, but I believe I now know why," he stated, pushing his way in.
I watched through the crack between the doors as the scene took place. I saw Legolas' eyes flicker.
"I was at the cottage. Did I forget to tell you? I arrived back weeks ago."
"Indeed," his father replied as he started searching the room. I froze; he knew I was there!
"Father?"
"Save us both the time and energy please and tell me where she is."
"Who?" Legolas asked following his father around the room.
"You know who I am speaking of."
There was a pause where Legolas acted as though he was thinking of who he was speaking of. "The fugitive? She is out in the forest. You saw her run out into them yourself and sent me to search of her."
"And you found her," the king finished, looking under the comforter.
"Nay, I did not. After ten days of searching I returned. I told you on my way back from the kitchens weeks ago." I was missing for ten days? I couldn't believe I had survived that long out there.
"Legolas, why are you hiding her?" The king's voice was dangerously low when he stopped searching to look at his son.
"Why do you not trust me?"
"Your eyes, Legolas, your eyes. They give you away every time. Did you not realize they are changing to green?"
"Because I fear for her when you do find her. You have no proof of anything."
"I do not need proof. She ran into the woods to warn them--"
"Warn them of what? They have not been seen on the northern border where she went only the--"
"Legolas!" he roared.
My attention was drawn away for a moment when I noticed the raven had made a perch on Legolas' porch.
"Your highness," Legolas answered calmly.
There was a slight pause before the king shook his head. "Very well," he walked to the door and opened it before turning back to him. "I cannot believe you. I am ashamed."
"I have nothing to be ashamed of. I am just doing my duties as a warrior and a guardian." I heard the door click and waited a few moments before stepping out.
"That was close."
Legolas didn't look at me, his eyes still locked on the door. "He heard you."
"He really-what?"
"He heard you." He repeated with no sign of emotion.
"How do you know?"
"His eyes gave him away. He would have searched more of the room, the bureau in particular. He knew you were in there, but he was testing my loyalty."
"I-what-you knew he would search the bureau? Why did you put me there if you knew!" Legolas betrayed me. The feeling inside was indescribable. It was as if a cold hand had suddenly put a death hold around my heart. For a moment I could not move, but I found my legs and began backing toward the door.
He turned to me. "I did not expect him to come and search. I expected him to question me and speak about whatever he came to me about then to leave, but I know when he searches how he does it. I have been there when he has done it before. I would not do that to you, Aluhin."
"How do I know? You could have this planned for all I know. Guards could bust into the door right now and take me for all I know and you'd probably stand there with a big grin thinking how easy that was. You could--"
"He is coming with guards now. I can hear them at the end of the hall."
"How do you know?"
He ignored my question. "It pains me that you still do not trust me." He closed his eyes for a second and when he opened them, they were a mixture of brown, green, and a dark blue. Sadness was clearly written on his face causing me to immediately feel guilty for my words.
I sighed, "What do we do?" I asked.
He turned to the door once more.
"Legolas," I plead.
"Forgive me," he whispered as he started toward the door.
I grabbed his arm. "No please. Thank you for your efforts, but please do not get yourself killed because of me."
"I will not let you die!" He looked at me with eyes that startled me. They were an extremely dark shade of turquoise.
"Legolas," I whispered, suddenly completely sure I could trust him not to turn against me.
The door banged open and three guards accompanied the king. Legolas stepped forward.
"Legolas, you do not want to do this," his father warned, advancing.
"I cannot just step aside and let you commit an innocent woman!"
"Yes you can and you will."
"Nay, I will not, your highness," he replied coolly.
I was surprised by Legolas' behavior, but even more when two guards ceased Legolas by the upper arms and held him in his place. He twisted and tried to free himself, but to no avail. The other grabbed me and pulled me to him. I attempted to wrench away from his grasp and pry his fingers off, but he was too strong and placed both hands firmly just below my shoulders. I felt as though in a painful straight jacket, unable to move.
My eyes met Legolas' as I was dragged to the door. "Thank you," I whispered thinking it may be the last time I would see him.
"Aluhin!" He called my name out one last time, his eyes pleading.
"Goodbye." I was pushed outside the door just after witnessing Legolas kick a guard painfully in the leg, causing the guard's knee to buckle. The other guard slammed him in the stomach with the hilt of his sword. Legolas keeled over and the last time I saw him, he was kneeling on the ground, a guard on each side, before the king.
A few steps out I heard the king say, "You care for her more than I thought. How could it have come to this? You know..." The voice was too distant and I could not make out the rest of the words as I was shoved harshly though the halls. This was the end. This was how I was destined to leave Middle-earth. It was not my first choice, but execution is a proud way to go down. I guess in a sense...especially when you are innocent. It is better than a slow painful death. I just hoped the king would not publicly ridicule and torture me.
We arrived in the dungeons and I was unceremoniously thrown in a cell before the door was slammed and a key being heard turning the lock. Silence echoed and after what felt like hours passed, I was sure I was alone. No one occupied a cell in the castle save me. Darkness accompanied the silence and I felt as if I was dead. I huddled in the corner and tried to get my mind off the burning silence and lack of light. I found myself replaying my best memories of life in Mirkwood.
I was only a child, maybe three years old and granted permission to play about the fields around the castle where we lived. It was a beautiful day and I was alone, save the eyes of my father-figure. I danced, twirled and basked in every way a child could in a dress.
I must have wandered far it off for I soon came upon a giant sparkling surface. Grass ceased growing just before it all around. I looked into curiously, never seeing water in this form before. Surprisingly I saw a little girl looking at me. I was overjoyed to discover she was like me. Being alone and without a playmate, I eagerly tried to persuade her to join me. When she did not, I decided to join her. After cautiously inspecting the surface, I declared it safe to enter and dove in.
Remarkably, I was not startled by its awkwardness, but found it felt like home. I loved this new environment I had found and quickly became accustomed to it. My potential friend was forgotten and I eagerly swam about. Too soon, I was pulled out bye a distressed and unhappy elf: Mailin. I begged to stay and swim longer, however, the elf did not crack. He soon after named me Aluhin after my obsession trying to sneak away and jump in.
I smiled at the memory. A few years later I discovered my deformities were not normal and stayed away from the water. Mailin was especially amused by this and said I had craved it enough in my younger years to last a lifetime. I dared not tell him the real reason out of fear he would abandon me.
I sighed and closed my eyes. If they kept me in there long I knew I would go insane. It wasn't that I disliked the darkness-because I did not-but the things I couldn't have: the stars, the rain, water, thunderstorms...and Legolas. I wished he were here, keeping me company, reassuring me I would get through it.
It was pointless. All those hours spent on learning Westron were useless. I would never have my chance to speak with the women in the forest. I was saddened by the fact I would never know if they knew of my past and I would die not knowing.
But if I could speak with someone one last time it would not be them I would choose, not Mailin or the king to try to persuade him from his thoughts. It would be Legolas. The one creature who knew me best, who cared for me most. Legolas.
I did not realize I had started singing until I was startled at hearing a voice. I was singing the song Legolas had when he tried to calm me from my nightmare. The beautiful song I wished would come from his lips. I continued singing until my eyes spotted something on the wall. A large scorch mark stained the wall. I touched it, causing some of the ash to crumble from the wall. Small numbers caught my eye and I looked closer so only a matter of inches separated me and the writing.
"What is this? 1742?" What looked like dates lined a good portion of the wall. I looked toward the top and read. "'Randi looses fingers.'" A couple lines down it said, "'Hire Morty.' Who's Morty?" My ears picked up a sound outside my cell: footsteps and they were advancing. I stopped, thinking morning had come and it was my time. I stayed where I was as I heard a key turn and the door opened.
A figure stood illuminated by a full moon which flowed in from an unknown window. The elf was tall and broad shouldered. I stayed still, thinking he may miss me in the darkness until he spoke.
"Aluhin," the voice asked in a quiet, hoping voice.
It couldn't be. Was it him? Was it the one who I had been praying for or was I reaching the first steps of losing my sanity?
"Legolas?" I asked weakly and almost unbelievingly. He advanced over to the corner and knelt before me. The moon lit up his features and I smiled weakly. My prince had come to save me.
"Legolas," I breathed, relieved. He wrapped his arms around me so tight I feared I would break, but I leaned into it and cherished the gesture.
"Aluhin, forgive--"
"No, there is nothing to forgive, but will you accept my thanks?"
"I have deserved no such thing."
"If not for you I would have been executed weeks ago. You sacrificed yourself, your life, and your time for me. I continued to guess at your motives, when they clearly were for good causes. Forgive me. I am forever grateful and at your debt."
He released me and looked into my eyes. "Aluhin, there is a matter I wish to speak to you about." I dreaded the news and waited for him to continue, dropping my head down. He picked up my chin and moved closer to me. "I should have spoken of this earlier, but I feared how you would react. This was not how I planned this to work out, but I must tell you now out of fear I may never have another chance." He paused and I was shocked about what he was implying. Not how he planned? Had he been the one who had implanted this idea in his father's head? Was this his doing?
"Ever since the day I set eyes on you, you drew my attention. Not because you were human or dressed in your fascinating blue cloak, but the way you held yourself, the twinkle in your eye. I could not help, but seek your company. I am glad I did. I only wish I could have discovered you sooner.
"Do not feel as if you owe me anything; you do not. I cherished every minute of our time together and only wished it had not been shortened as much as it has. I feel as if so much time has been wasted not knowing you. I feel as if I need to tell you this now, for I may never have another chance.
"Aluhin," he whispered, drawing close to me, closer than normal. "I love you," his breath on my lips before pressing his lips gently against mine.
I was too shocked to think. Those words were the last ones I ever imagined to come out of his mouth, or anyone's mouth. My instincts took over as his lips softly caressed mine. I did the only logical thing I could think of: kiss him back. His lips molded to mind perfectly as we savored the moment. I felt his arms encircle my waist and draw me into his. His tongue licked my lips before sliding in.
He continued for a few more moments until we needed air and drew away. I stared at him, breathing heavy. "You love me?"
"I love you, with all my heart and soul. I would take the blade for you."
"Legolas, you must not. I could not bear to watch you die in my place!" I plead.
"You think I do not feel the same?" Tears gathered in his eyes. "I cannot live without you!" he whispered.
I knew about elves and their hearts. If what he said was true, I had his heart and would take it to the grave with me. He would perish of heartbreak soon after. "No! You must not! Please, just hold onto life...for me."
"Aluhin..."
"Legolas, please, I will watch over you. I will be with you always, but you must stay. I will live through the moon and the rain and the lightning in the sky. I will be there. Promise me" A lone tear slid down his cheek. "Promise me!"
"I could not bear to go on without you," he repeated my words.
"You won't have to. You will not be alone. Did you not say how you loved the way I was so free in the rain? Remember that day you followed me and watched me sing in the rain?" He nodded. "I am the rain. I will be the rain. Enjoy me that way! Please, Legolas. Do not do this to me!"
He searched my eyes. A tear dripped down my cheek. His hand went to my face and his thumb wiped it away. "For you, I promise."
I smiled weakly. "Thank you." I rewarded him by hugging him fiercely. Too many things were happening at once. I couldn't believe he loved me. The proof his words was true was told in his kiss. He was gentle and sincere, both careful and needing.
"Do I have your love?"
I was silent for a moment, unsure of what to say. He drew apart from me and looked at me thoroughly. Somehow there was a glint in his eyes even though there was virtually no light.
"I am not forcing you to return my feelings," he said softly. His voice was steady, but I was sure he was disappointed and deeply saddened by my silence.
"Please, this is sudden. Just allow me to sort through my emotions." I whispered. He nodded. I knew I didn't have much time to think about the topic, but I needed some time at least. For what reason, I will never know, but my eyes must have strayed over the open cell door because a thought suddenly came to me.
"Legolas?" I questioned an idea in my head.
"Yes, my love."
I would have laughed if not for the mood hanging in the air. "How did you get down here? Surely the guards would not let you down."
"No, they would not. A friend of mind arrived today and did me the favor of getting them intoxicated. Now my father is really going to dislike humans." He added the last sentence as more of a thought to himself voiced out.
"Why is that?"
"Estel is also a human."
"Hope?" I asked in Westron seeing the elvish name and wondering how it came about.
"He is commonly known as Aragorn by men." Aragorn, the man I overheard the king speaking of. I had to meet this man and thank him.
"Does this mean the coast is clear for escape?"
He thought about it and pulled away from me. "What do we have to lose?"
"Your life," I whispered, looking away.
His fingers were on my chin, turning me to him (I realized he does that a lot and wondered why). "I would gladly give my life for you."
"Let us both exit the castle with our lives intact, shall we?" He nodded and stood, pulling me up. He started toward the door, but I grabbed his arm and pulled him back. "A kiss for luck?"
"I believe I can comply."
Silently we each knew it could be our last and clung to each other, hoping the moment would not come to an end. It did, however, and Legolas looked into my eyes before turning, checking both directions and pulling me behind him.
"I prayed you would come. I was in the dark, in the silence, and you were the one I wanted to last see," I whispered in his ear.
"I heard you," he whispered back before placing a kiss on my ear.
I wished it didn't have to end this way. For the first time in my life, everything was right. Why did I now have to be a fugitive? Why had they come? They had ruined my life! But if they hadn't come, Legolas would have never gotten to know me; he would have never invited me to dinner or offered to protect me.
"Thank you," I whispered to him.
"Do not," he whispered back.
No words were exchanged as we hurried through the dark halls, trying to find an escape. 'Please just keep Legolas safe. Keep him alive.' I prayed to the Valar. 'Take my life if it comes to it.'
We scurried onward, passing a few guards who lay unceremoniously on the floor, mugs of mead in their hands. Legolas pushed me into a dark corner and picked up some clothes.
"Here, wear these. The guards know what you are wearing and will not spot you as easily." I kissed him quickly for his genius and he turned to guard the hall as I changed from the filthy dress I wore.
"All right," I whispered as I finished. He turned and produced another folded cloth.
"Your cloak, for good luck." I accepted it and threw it over my shoulders. I did not realize how much I had missed it. He held yet another object before me. "And lastly, my sword, so you may protect yourself if the need comes."
"Your sword?" I asked, not sure if I should accept such a gift.
"I would trust no other."
"I cannot accept this! You will need--"
"I will get another. I would feel much better if you kept this."
I stared at the sheath of the sword. I could tell just by looking at it that this was a very well crafted sword. Slowly, I reached out and accepted it.
"Thank you."
"You are most welcome." His smile was sad and he stepped toward me. "May you possess the grace and speed of my kind," he whispered before placing a kiss on my brow.
"Please promise me that if I fall behind you will continue on. That you will not return for me."
"You will not fall behind and even if that should occur I have no reason to keep going. I do not need to escape here unless it was to be with you. We will make it."
"I hope you are right."
He swallowed hard before saying, "Let us be going then." His voice pained me. I could tell he was frightened for me.
"Yes," I replied. "Legolas, I will be fine." He nodded and checked the hall before pulling me behind him. We continued swiftly, more so than before. I believe we both felt the need to end this sooner versus later.
Voices entered my ears, Legolas must have heard them too with his hearing.
"Where are they coming from?"
"Ahead, straight in our path. Before the only door we can escape from."
We slowed our pace and did our best to hide in the shadows. Legolas was in his warrior mode, creeping slowly toward the doors. I knew he could slip past them, but I wouldn't. I was suddenly afraid our mission might not succeed.
We stopped when we were within ten feet of the two blocking the doorway. I could make out the silhouette of an elf and another, shorter, stouter creature that I would identify as a man if I ever saw one.
"Aragorn," I heard Legolas silently curse. Something must have gone wrong. I guessed the elf either did not drink the wine or it had no effect on him. We were trapped with no where to go, but into the guard's imprisonment.
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A/N: Thank you for your reviews! I hope this story continues to be a good read to those who are still with us. For those of you who are among the silent readers, please help me improve the story by reviewing. Thank you.
Dulaithlossword: Thank you for reading. I am glad you enjoy it. Let me know if there are any aspects I need to improve on.
Brianna: Thank you for reading and thank you for the view! I am very glad to hear you like it. Please continue to read and let me know what you think of this chapter.
Sekhet: Well, thank you for your critique. Yes, normally I would agree with you, but because I am writing this fic for a friend, I had to follow the rules of the sequel. And no, Middle-earth does not have CDs, obviously, and as you have probably discovered, Middle-earth does not have Enya either. I know these aspects have no explanation, but I am forced to partially obey my friend's rules. And thank you for your evidence. I did believe that was true, but I was not sure. Thank you for clearing that up. Please continue to review. I find reviews like yours very helpful.
"You have not been sleeping for a week!" Legolas argued one morning. I stood by the window, my back to him.
"Two," I correctly softly, although I am sure he heard. "Or was it three?" Over the past couple weeks, our time together had mainly been spent him trying to teach me the language of humans and enjoying each others company. I clung to each day as if it were my last, despite Legolas' disapproval. I turned and addressed him. "You do not rest either."
"Elves do not require rest every night, but humans will weaken. You must keep your strength up to heal."
"I am healed! I am fine!"
"You call losing consciousness while standing fine?" he asked, stepping toward me.
"I passed out, all right? It was nothing."
"And what of the memory lapses you have been having lately?"
"They will cease soon. They have been lessening since the day after you found me." As soon as the words came out, I regretted them. Legolas looked at me and took another step forward.
"Ever since the day after I found you? This does not have to do with your injury, correct?"
I looked to the floor, avoiding his gaze. "Incorrect. It does."
"You never did tell me what happened," he realized, taking another step.
I sighed, "I passed out from exhaustion and hit my head on a rock."
"When you awoke..." Legolas started, trying to get me to finish.
"I had no memory of the recent past," I admitted.
He took the last few strides toward me. "Aluhin, why did you not tell me?"
"I had not the heart to tell you I did not remember you."
"This is why you did not use my name and were uneasy about how to act around me."
"You noticed?" I asked, looking up.
"I noticed."
"I apologize." My eyes fell to the floor again, only to be stopped by light fingers again.
"There is no need. It was not your fault." He paused before adding, "I deserved it for how I treated you."
I nodded before opening my mouth to protest as he withdrew his hand. I looked into his eyes and soon lost my train of thought. Ever since my first nightmare and the day he held me, his eyes had constantly been a dark shade of blue. I had questioned him about it and he said since his bloodline concealed their emotions so well, they showed through their eyes. I asked him what each color meant and he answered he did not know. Although I was sure he did, I let the matter drop.
I had realized over the past week that I could not live without him. He was the only living one who cared about me. He had given me so much and I loved him for it. I only wished I could repay him.
He smiled and I returned it along with a question. "What do you ha--" I was cut of by a knock on the door. We were in Legolas' room and I quickly figured who the elf on the other side could be.
Legolas' eyes quickly turned brown and he mouthed 'hide.' I scurried as quietly as I could and entered in the armoire Legolas pointed to before I watched him head for the door.
"Good morn, father. May I inquire as to the occasion?"
"I was coming to question you on your recent absences, but I believe I now know why," he stated, pushing his way in.
I watched through the crack between the doors as the scene took place. I saw Legolas' eyes flicker.
"I was at the cottage. Did I forget to tell you? I arrived back weeks ago."
"Indeed," his father replied as he started searching the room. I froze; he knew I was there!
"Father?"
"Save us both the time and energy please and tell me where she is."
"Who?" Legolas asked following his father around the room.
"You know who I am speaking of."
There was a pause where Legolas acted as though he was thinking of who he was speaking of. "The fugitive? She is out in the forest. You saw her run out into them yourself and sent me to search of her."
"And you found her," the king finished, looking under the comforter.
"Nay, I did not. After ten days of searching I returned. I told you on my way back from the kitchens weeks ago." I was missing for ten days? I couldn't believe I had survived that long out there.
"Legolas, why are you hiding her?" The king's voice was dangerously low when he stopped searching to look at his son.
"Why do you not trust me?"
"Your eyes, Legolas, your eyes. They give you away every time. Did you not realize they are changing to green?"
"Because I fear for her when you do find her. You have no proof of anything."
"I do not need proof. She ran into the woods to warn them--"
"Warn them of what? They have not been seen on the northern border where she went only the--"
"Legolas!" he roared.
My attention was drawn away for a moment when I noticed the raven had made a perch on Legolas' porch.
"Your highness," Legolas answered calmly.
There was a slight pause before the king shook his head. "Very well," he walked to the door and opened it before turning back to him. "I cannot believe you. I am ashamed."
"I have nothing to be ashamed of. I am just doing my duties as a warrior and a guardian." I heard the door click and waited a few moments before stepping out.
"That was close."
Legolas didn't look at me, his eyes still locked on the door. "He heard you."
"He really-what?"
"He heard you." He repeated with no sign of emotion.
"How do you know?"
"His eyes gave him away. He would have searched more of the room, the bureau in particular. He knew you were in there, but he was testing my loyalty."
"I-what-you knew he would search the bureau? Why did you put me there if you knew!" Legolas betrayed me. The feeling inside was indescribable. It was as if a cold hand had suddenly put a death hold around my heart. For a moment I could not move, but I found my legs and began backing toward the door.
He turned to me. "I did not expect him to come and search. I expected him to question me and speak about whatever he came to me about then to leave, but I know when he searches how he does it. I have been there when he has done it before. I would not do that to you, Aluhin."
"How do I know? You could have this planned for all I know. Guards could bust into the door right now and take me for all I know and you'd probably stand there with a big grin thinking how easy that was. You could--"
"He is coming with guards now. I can hear them at the end of the hall."
"How do you know?"
He ignored my question. "It pains me that you still do not trust me." He closed his eyes for a second and when he opened them, they were a mixture of brown, green, and a dark blue. Sadness was clearly written on his face causing me to immediately feel guilty for my words.
I sighed, "What do we do?" I asked.
He turned to the door once more.
"Legolas," I plead.
"Forgive me," he whispered as he started toward the door.
I grabbed his arm. "No please. Thank you for your efforts, but please do not get yourself killed because of me."
"I will not let you die!" He looked at me with eyes that startled me. They were an extremely dark shade of turquoise.
"Legolas," I whispered, suddenly completely sure I could trust him not to turn against me.
The door banged open and three guards accompanied the king. Legolas stepped forward.
"Legolas, you do not want to do this," his father warned, advancing.
"I cannot just step aside and let you commit an innocent woman!"
"Yes you can and you will."
"Nay, I will not, your highness," he replied coolly.
I was surprised by Legolas' behavior, but even more when two guards ceased Legolas by the upper arms and held him in his place. He twisted and tried to free himself, but to no avail. The other grabbed me and pulled me to him. I attempted to wrench away from his grasp and pry his fingers off, but he was too strong and placed both hands firmly just below my shoulders. I felt as though in a painful straight jacket, unable to move.
My eyes met Legolas' as I was dragged to the door. "Thank you," I whispered thinking it may be the last time I would see him.
"Aluhin!" He called my name out one last time, his eyes pleading.
"Goodbye." I was pushed outside the door just after witnessing Legolas kick a guard painfully in the leg, causing the guard's knee to buckle. The other guard slammed him in the stomach with the hilt of his sword. Legolas keeled over and the last time I saw him, he was kneeling on the ground, a guard on each side, before the king.
A few steps out I heard the king say, "You care for her more than I thought. How could it have come to this? You know..." The voice was too distant and I could not make out the rest of the words as I was shoved harshly though the halls. This was the end. This was how I was destined to leave Middle-earth. It was not my first choice, but execution is a proud way to go down. I guess in a sense...especially when you are innocent. It is better than a slow painful death. I just hoped the king would not publicly ridicule and torture me.
We arrived in the dungeons and I was unceremoniously thrown in a cell before the door was slammed and a key being heard turning the lock. Silence echoed and after what felt like hours passed, I was sure I was alone. No one occupied a cell in the castle save me. Darkness accompanied the silence and I felt as if I was dead. I huddled in the corner and tried to get my mind off the burning silence and lack of light. I found myself replaying my best memories of life in Mirkwood.
I was only a child, maybe three years old and granted permission to play about the fields around the castle where we lived. It was a beautiful day and I was alone, save the eyes of my father-figure. I danced, twirled and basked in every way a child could in a dress.
I must have wandered far it off for I soon came upon a giant sparkling surface. Grass ceased growing just before it all around. I looked into curiously, never seeing water in this form before. Surprisingly I saw a little girl looking at me. I was overjoyed to discover she was like me. Being alone and without a playmate, I eagerly tried to persuade her to join me. When she did not, I decided to join her. After cautiously inspecting the surface, I declared it safe to enter and dove in.
Remarkably, I was not startled by its awkwardness, but found it felt like home. I loved this new environment I had found and quickly became accustomed to it. My potential friend was forgotten and I eagerly swam about. Too soon, I was pulled out bye a distressed and unhappy elf: Mailin. I begged to stay and swim longer, however, the elf did not crack. He soon after named me Aluhin after my obsession trying to sneak away and jump in.
I smiled at the memory. A few years later I discovered my deformities were not normal and stayed away from the water. Mailin was especially amused by this and said I had craved it enough in my younger years to last a lifetime. I dared not tell him the real reason out of fear he would abandon me.
I sighed and closed my eyes. If they kept me in there long I knew I would go insane. It wasn't that I disliked the darkness-because I did not-but the things I couldn't have: the stars, the rain, water, thunderstorms...and Legolas. I wished he were here, keeping me company, reassuring me I would get through it.
It was pointless. All those hours spent on learning Westron were useless. I would never have my chance to speak with the women in the forest. I was saddened by the fact I would never know if they knew of my past and I would die not knowing.
But if I could speak with someone one last time it would not be them I would choose, not Mailin or the king to try to persuade him from his thoughts. It would be Legolas. The one creature who knew me best, who cared for me most. Legolas.
I did not realize I had started singing until I was startled at hearing a voice. I was singing the song Legolas had when he tried to calm me from my nightmare. The beautiful song I wished would come from his lips. I continued singing until my eyes spotted something on the wall. A large scorch mark stained the wall. I touched it, causing some of the ash to crumble from the wall. Small numbers caught my eye and I looked closer so only a matter of inches separated me and the writing.
"What is this? 1742?" What looked like dates lined a good portion of the wall. I looked toward the top and read. "'Randi looses fingers.'" A couple lines down it said, "'Hire Morty.' Who's Morty?" My ears picked up a sound outside my cell: footsteps and they were advancing. I stopped, thinking morning had come and it was my time. I stayed where I was as I heard a key turn and the door opened.
A figure stood illuminated by a full moon which flowed in from an unknown window. The elf was tall and broad shouldered. I stayed still, thinking he may miss me in the darkness until he spoke.
"Aluhin," the voice asked in a quiet, hoping voice.
It couldn't be. Was it him? Was it the one who I had been praying for or was I reaching the first steps of losing my sanity?
"Legolas?" I asked weakly and almost unbelievingly. He advanced over to the corner and knelt before me. The moon lit up his features and I smiled weakly. My prince had come to save me.
"Legolas," I breathed, relieved. He wrapped his arms around me so tight I feared I would break, but I leaned into it and cherished the gesture.
"Aluhin, forgive--"
"No, there is nothing to forgive, but will you accept my thanks?"
"I have deserved no such thing."
"If not for you I would have been executed weeks ago. You sacrificed yourself, your life, and your time for me. I continued to guess at your motives, when they clearly were for good causes. Forgive me. I am forever grateful and at your debt."
He released me and looked into my eyes. "Aluhin, there is a matter I wish to speak to you about." I dreaded the news and waited for him to continue, dropping my head down. He picked up my chin and moved closer to me. "I should have spoken of this earlier, but I feared how you would react. This was not how I planned this to work out, but I must tell you now out of fear I may never have another chance." He paused and I was shocked about what he was implying. Not how he planned? Had he been the one who had implanted this idea in his father's head? Was this his doing?
"Ever since the day I set eyes on you, you drew my attention. Not because you were human or dressed in your fascinating blue cloak, but the way you held yourself, the twinkle in your eye. I could not help, but seek your company. I am glad I did. I only wish I could have discovered you sooner.
"Do not feel as if you owe me anything; you do not. I cherished every minute of our time together and only wished it had not been shortened as much as it has. I feel as if so much time has been wasted not knowing you. I feel as if I need to tell you this now, for I may never have another chance.
"Aluhin," he whispered, drawing close to me, closer than normal. "I love you," his breath on my lips before pressing his lips gently against mine.
I was too shocked to think. Those words were the last ones I ever imagined to come out of his mouth, or anyone's mouth. My instincts took over as his lips softly caressed mine. I did the only logical thing I could think of: kiss him back. His lips molded to mind perfectly as we savored the moment. I felt his arms encircle my waist and draw me into his. His tongue licked my lips before sliding in.
He continued for a few more moments until we needed air and drew away. I stared at him, breathing heavy. "You love me?"
"I love you, with all my heart and soul. I would take the blade for you."
"Legolas, you must not. I could not bear to watch you die in my place!" I plead.
"You think I do not feel the same?" Tears gathered in his eyes. "I cannot live without you!" he whispered.
I knew about elves and their hearts. If what he said was true, I had his heart and would take it to the grave with me. He would perish of heartbreak soon after. "No! You must not! Please, just hold onto life...for me."
"Aluhin..."
"Legolas, please, I will watch over you. I will be with you always, but you must stay. I will live through the moon and the rain and the lightning in the sky. I will be there. Promise me" A lone tear slid down his cheek. "Promise me!"
"I could not bear to go on without you," he repeated my words.
"You won't have to. You will not be alone. Did you not say how you loved the way I was so free in the rain? Remember that day you followed me and watched me sing in the rain?" He nodded. "I am the rain. I will be the rain. Enjoy me that way! Please, Legolas. Do not do this to me!"
He searched my eyes. A tear dripped down my cheek. His hand went to my face and his thumb wiped it away. "For you, I promise."
I smiled weakly. "Thank you." I rewarded him by hugging him fiercely. Too many things were happening at once. I couldn't believe he loved me. The proof his words was true was told in his kiss. He was gentle and sincere, both careful and needing.
"Do I have your love?"
I was silent for a moment, unsure of what to say. He drew apart from me and looked at me thoroughly. Somehow there was a glint in his eyes even though there was virtually no light.
"I am not forcing you to return my feelings," he said softly. His voice was steady, but I was sure he was disappointed and deeply saddened by my silence.
"Please, this is sudden. Just allow me to sort through my emotions." I whispered. He nodded. I knew I didn't have much time to think about the topic, but I needed some time at least. For what reason, I will never know, but my eyes must have strayed over the open cell door because a thought suddenly came to me.
"Legolas?" I questioned an idea in my head.
"Yes, my love."
I would have laughed if not for the mood hanging in the air. "How did you get down here? Surely the guards would not let you down."
"No, they would not. A friend of mind arrived today and did me the favor of getting them intoxicated. Now my father is really going to dislike humans." He added the last sentence as more of a thought to himself voiced out.
"Why is that?"
"Estel is also a human."
"Hope?" I asked in Westron seeing the elvish name and wondering how it came about.
"He is commonly known as Aragorn by men." Aragorn, the man I overheard the king speaking of. I had to meet this man and thank him.
"Does this mean the coast is clear for escape?"
He thought about it and pulled away from me. "What do we have to lose?"
"Your life," I whispered, looking away.
His fingers were on my chin, turning me to him (I realized he does that a lot and wondered why). "I would gladly give my life for you."
"Let us both exit the castle with our lives intact, shall we?" He nodded and stood, pulling me up. He started toward the door, but I grabbed his arm and pulled him back. "A kiss for luck?"
"I believe I can comply."
Silently we each knew it could be our last and clung to each other, hoping the moment would not come to an end. It did, however, and Legolas looked into my eyes before turning, checking both directions and pulling me behind him.
"I prayed you would come. I was in the dark, in the silence, and you were the one I wanted to last see," I whispered in his ear.
"I heard you," he whispered back before placing a kiss on my ear.
I wished it didn't have to end this way. For the first time in my life, everything was right. Why did I now have to be a fugitive? Why had they come? They had ruined my life! But if they hadn't come, Legolas would have never gotten to know me; he would have never invited me to dinner or offered to protect me.
"Thank you," I whispered to him.
"Do not," he whispered back.
No words were exchanged as we hurried through the dark halls, trying to find an escape. 'Please just keep Legolas safe. Keep him alive.' I prayed to the Valar. 'Take my life if it comes to it.'
We scurried onward, passing a few guards who lay unceremoniously on the floor, mugs of mead in their hands. Legolas pushed me into a dark corner and picked up some clothes.
"Here, wear these. The guards know what you are wearing and will not spot you as easily." I kissed him quickly for his genius and he turned to guard the hall as I changed from the filthy dress I wore.
"All right," I whispered as I finished. He turned and produced another folded cloth.
"Your cloak, for good luck." I accepted it and threw it over my shoulders. I did not realize how much I had missed it. He held yet another object before me. "And lastly, my sword, so you may protect yourself if the need comes."
"Your sword?" I asked, not sure if I should accept such a gift.
"I would trust no other."
"I cannot accept this! You will need--"
"I will get another. I would feel much better if you kept this."
I stared at the sheath of the sword. I could tell just by looking at it that this was a very well crafted sword. Slowly, I reached out and accepted it.
"Thank you."
"You are most welcome." His smile was sad and he stepped toward me. "May you possess the grace and speed of my kind," he whispered before placing a kiss on my brow.
"Please promise me that if I fall behind you will continue on. That you will not return for me."
"You will not fall behind and even if that should occur I have no reason to keep going. I do not need to escape here unless it was to be with you. We will make it."
"I hope you are right."
He swallowed hard before saying, "Let us be going then." His voice pained me. I could tell he was frightened for me.
"Yes," I replied. "Legolas, I will be fine." He nodded and checked the hall before pulling me behind him. We continued swiftly, more so than before. I believe we both felt the need to end this sooner versus later.
Voices entered my ears, Legolas must have heard them too with his hearing.
"Where are they coming from?"
"Ahead, straight in our path. Before the only door we can escape from."
We slowed our pace and did our best to hide in the shadows. Legolas was in his warrior mode, creeping slowly toward the doors. I knew he could slip past them, but I wouldn't. I was suddenly afraid our mission might not succeed.
We stopped when we were within ten feet of the two blocking the doorway. I could make out the silhouette of an elf and another, shorter, stouter creature that I would identify as a man if I ever saw one.
"Aragorn," I heard Legolas silently curse. Something must have gone wrong. I guessed the elf either did not drink the wine or it had no effect on him. We were trapped with no where to go, but into the guard's imprisonment.
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A/N: Thank you for your reviews! I hope this story continues to be a good read to those who are still with us. For those of you who are among the silent readers, please help me improve the story by reviewing. Thank you.
Dulaithlossword: Thank you for reading. I am glad you enjoy it. Let me know if there are any aspects I need to improve on.
Brianna: Thank you for reading and thank you for the view! I am very glad to hear you like it. Please continue to read and let me know what you think of this chapter.
Sekhet: Well, thank you for your critique. Yes, normally I would agree with you, but because I am writing this fic for a friend, I had to follow the rules of the sequel. And no, Middle-earth does not have CDs, obviously, and as you have probably discovered, Middle-earth does not have Enya either. I know these aspects have no explanation, but I am forced to partially obey my friend's rules. And thank you for your evidence. I did believe that was true, but I was not sure. Thank you for clearing that up. Please continue to review. I find reviews like yours very helpful.