Disclaimer: See default chapter.
RATING: R (For darker themes. Please use your judgement)
Chapter 10
When all hope is lost
If your tears want out, then let them fall
They'll hit your cheeks and then dissolve
You see nothing heals quite like time
It fills the gap between dreams and real life
So give your pain a chance to dry
(Quest of Many Trails written by Nate Cole and Gabe Combs, sung by Plus One. CD: EX*DUS)
It was snowing. The white snowflakes fell gently down among the trees, coating everything. It was a very pretty site had not Legolas been chained and bound. The tent flap had been left open, purposely all the time now. Though usually Legolas hardly felt the cold, he could feel it's icy clutches around his weakened body. Even elves had to eat, and he had not been given anything to eat for nearly five days. Not only that, but his blood couldn't replenish it's self with the small amounts of water he had been given each day. He was weakening by the moment, and if someone didn't come soon. All they would find would be his dead body.
His attention was caught by a loud crash. His ears caught the sound of an intense argument in another tent.
"You did what!"
"It's just an elf, Trozel."
"Just an elf! That elf could lead us to the Mirkwood palace!"
Legolas felt a shiver of fear race through him as the words reached him.
"He is no longer yours."
"But... But. I paid for him, fair and square!" Came the protesting voice of Tourec.
There was an almost silent whisper as the other Easterling whipped his sword out and easily cut Tourec's head off. Legolas could hear the sickening thud on, as the head hit the hard ground "And I just did." Came the mocking voice.
Legolas could feel panic racing through his veins. This was something unexpected. The man pushed the tent flaps down as he entered. He stared at Legolas, examining him carefully.
"You will tell me where the Mirkwood realm is now." The words were harsh.
Legolas straightened his back as much as he possibly could. "No." He stated calmly, despite the fear and panic, making his heart pound so loud, it was a wonder that the human didn't hear it.
"You will tell me slave, or you will regret it." The words were ruthlessly backed up by a sharp backhand.
"Is that all you can do?" Legolas taunted lightly.
The human stepped forward, gently touching Legolas' cheek. Caressing it, in an almost tender gesture.
Legolas suppressed a shiver, not knowing or liking what he saw in the human's eyes.
"All I want is the location of the woodland realm." The human said calmly, still caressing the smooth skin. "We can do it the hard way or the easy way." He stepped back. "I know you will not tell me easily, so when the pain becomes to much, all you have to do is scream and I will know that you have had enough and then you will tell me the exact location." He twirled a riding crop. "Or you can remain silent and I will break your soul into a thousand pieces and you will beg for death." He stepped forward, laying a hand on Legolas' bare chest.
"I know how to break a soul." The human said with such a quiet confidence that Legolas drew back from the piercing empty gaze that seemed to bore straight into his soul.
"You will beg for death." The human continued. "But you shall not receive it." The human gave a thin, cruel smile that sent shivers up Legolas' back. He clenched his fist. "I can take or break your soul." He whispered. "Or if you tell me. I will give you a quick death." He stepped back, shrugging indifferently. "It is your choice."
He gave Legolas one more searching gaze then stepped outside, leaving a terror stricken prince to consider his words.
Legolas closed his eyes and fought down the nausea that threatened to overwhelm him. He had heard many stories of how a soul could be broken. One stood out more than any other.
Rape.
It tore a soul in two, leaving behind a broken elf, who usually died. He had an inkling that if he didn't give the human what he wanted, that was the way he would take his soul. By raping him. Tearing his soul in two.
But if that was the cost for his ada. His brothers. His sisters. His home to remain safe. It was a small price to pay. Better he died than the hundreds of elves around and in his Ada's realm.
He took a deep breath, stilling his breath more a moment, before allowing it to leave. He leaned his head against the pole.
*"I can take or break your soul."*
The very echo of the human's words brought fear to the prince.
"No." He whispered. He squared his shoulders, lifted his head high and put a make of indifference on his face.
No, he would not reveal the location of the realm to his captors. Not even if they took his soul, his body or his life. He took another breath. He would do it for his ada. He would do it for Lomion and Lainiel. He would do it for Thalion and Miriwen. He would do it for Tasari. He would do it for Lothgil.
But oh he would miss them. In his minds eye he could see his ada throwing his arms open wide, welcoming him back home. He pictured everyone. Ada. Lomion. Lainiel. Thalion. Miriwen. Tasari. Lothgil. Aragorn. Elladan. Elrohir. Lord Elrond. Adoril. Meldon. There were so many that he would miss. But it was for the better they were not here, they would not see his turmoil. His pain. His fear. He closed his eyes, hearing footsteps outside the tent.
*'This is for you ada.'* He thought.
The tent flaps flew open as the human came back in.
"Well?" He purred.
Legolas let a smile show. A smile full of contempt. "Do you really think I would betray my king?" He asked, his voice full of scorn. He met the human's gaze with one of his own. "No."
The human smiled almost happily. "Your pain is something I will enjoy." He said almost cheerfully. "But I will not take your soul quite yet." He put two fingers in his mouth and let out a piercing whistle. "I would have your body broken first."
Three men came into the tent and drew their swords as the human unchained Legolas and drug him outside in the snow. There had been a pole placed at the center of the camp and there Legolas was once more bound to it.
The human glanced up at the falling night sky and smiled. "Have fun." He let out another whistle and several dogs raced up and stared hungrily at Legolas, having smelled his blood.
"Guard." The human ordered and turned and walked away. Leaving a frightened prince among a throng of hungry dogs.
*~*~*
Adoril forced himself to calm his racing heart. He knew very well that Legolas was in a far more serious position now then before. All of the elves had heard the cry or rather scream that had come from the tent. Adoril and Meldon had to be physically restrained from rushing in the tent and killing everyone on site.
It was far to tempting just to loose some arrows. But as Legolas had said, if they got suspicious of the rescue attempts, they would know that he was more than a bodyguard. Something that right now wouldn't matter. A bodyguard wouldn't know any secret locations, but the Easterling had said he wanted the location of the realm. Something that even a small elfling would know.
He turned, grabbing a piece of paper and quickly scrawled something on it. He passed it to the closest elf. "Get this to King Thranduil immediately." He ordered.
*~*~*
*'All hope it lost.'*
Galadriel woke with a jerk, placing a hand over her forehead. Something was about to happen. Something terrible.
"What is it?" Celeborn asked quietly.
Galadriel shook her head. "I cannot see." She whispered. "But it is something terrible. Something terrible is about to happen." She threw the covers off, throwing a robe around her nightgown. "I will look in the mirror." She said and quietly slipped out.
She quickly descended the long staircase to the small glade. Dipping the long pitcher in the fountain she quickly poured water into the nearby basin. As she stared in it, she could see many things. But one image stood out above all else.
It was the youngest prince of Mirkwood. He had been captured and was in desperate need of help.
Galadriel stepped back, but not before her attention was caught by another image. It showed the prince in Lothlorien, a top on of the flets, casting a sorrowful gaze over his shoulder. Then it showed another image, of the prince standing slightly hidden in a stone archway. A slow smile spreading across his face. In his hand he held the Evenstar. But he was looking at a man, standing in front of him, and carefully placed it in the man's hand.
Then the mirror stilled and once more only held water. Galadriel stepped back, her eyes immediately searching for Thalion. She quickly ascended the stairs and told Celeborn of the peril the youngest prince was in, who immediately rose to tell Thalion the news.
*'When all hope is lost.'*
The words previously spoken by Thalion, echoed in Celeborn's mind. Thalion had lost four warriors, and he could also loose his youngest brother. Celeborn halted at the edge of the flet, suddenly knowing he would need more than himself to keep Thalion in Lorien until he was fully rested, brother in trouble or not.
He turned and called Haldir, Elrond and the Mirkwood warrior, Telos and together they entered Thalion's room.
As they entered Thalion immediately jerked awake, his hand desperately searching for a weapon to defend himself.
"Peace Thranduillion." Celeborn soothed.
Thalion blinked at the elves, uncertain as to why there were there. He pushed himself up, but fell back down when his elbow buckled. Telos quickly came to his aid and helped him up.
Suddenly worried Elrond placed a hand over Thalion's heart and forehead and closed his eyes. For several moments the room was eerily silent, each elf awaiting Elrond's words.
"You are hurting." Elrond said quietly.
Thalion cast weary eyes upon the elven lord.
"The weight of the shadow is heavy." Elrond opened his eyes. "But you are afraid to share it, lest it descends upon another."
Thalion's lip quivered as he fought to keep the grief, sorrow and pain down. Celeborn gently soothed a stray strand of hair from Thalion's face. "Let it go Thalion." He said quietly.
They all watched as a single tear fell from the corner of Thalion's eye. Telos gently drew the younger elf into his arms, and with a sob, Thalion threw his arms around Telos and began to sob as if his heart was breaking. And it was close to breaking.
Telos had always been there when Thalion was growing up. He was like a father figure to him and often when Thranduil wasn't around, Thalion was able to open up to Telos instead. It had been many years since Thalion had truly cried. And all Telos could do was whisper comforting words, while he rubbed Thalion's back.
Several moments passed. The only sound heard in the flet, was the heartbreaking sound of Thalion's sobs, as he let out his grief. Taking a shuddering breath, Thalion drew back, wiping his eyes. He smiled weakly when he saw the large wet spot on Telos' tunic.
"Sorry." He muttered.
Elrond smiled gently as he handed the prince a handkerchief. "There is no need to apologize, Thalion. Perhaps we need to apologize for not realizing your grief sooner." He chuckled. "But then again, after treating Legolas for many years, I'm not surprised that you hid it."
Thalion grinned weakly. "The stubborn pride of the Thranduil clan ay?"
"Yes." Elrond smiled.
Thalion turned a curious gaze to Celeborn. "Surely you aren't all here because I have not let my grief out." He stated.
Celeborn shook his head. "No, it was not." He settled himself on a nearby chair. "As you may know, my wife, Galadriel often has premonitions. She had one just minutes ago about your brother."
"Legolas?" Thalion stiffened.
Celeborn nodded. "Yes, she has seen that he is in dire need of help."
Instantly Thalion pushed himself off, grabbing a shirt and immediately began to button it. "What else?" He asked tersely.
"You can't go." Telos stated.
Thalion's hands stilled. "What?"
"You can't go." Elrond said quietly from the bed. "There is to much at risk for you to go."
Thalion snorted. "You are saying that my little brother is in dire need of help and then you say I can't help him?" He asked incredulously.
"Yes."
Thalion turned towards Celeborn. "You don't understand." He stated. "If Lady Galadriel can see he is need of help, then the novices have either been killed or captured. They would never let Legolas get captured!"
"Thalion.." Telos started.
"No. I have to go. Telos you must understand this!" Thalion interrupted. "If he was captured by Easterlings, and they found out that Legolas is a prince." He shook his head as the images of Legolas' dead body floated in his mind. "They will torture him until they get the information they want. And once done having their fun." Thalion ground out. "They will either kill him or make his life even worse." He cast furious eyes upon the two elven lords. "I must go. I need to go. I have to go."
"And what?" Haldir spoke up. "Kill yourself in the process? Four warriors died just to get here. How many more will die trying to get back?"
Suddenly the fight went out of Thalion. "I have to." He whispered, sinking back down on the bed. "He needs me." With a sob, he covered his face. "He needs me."
*~*~*
Dear Thorinell,
I hope this letter finds you well, as am I. I hope that your settlement has gotten enough meat to preserve over the winter. I fear that we have to keep hunting longer.
Thorinell, I want to ask you a question. One that I hope you will not be offended by, if it does I must know, even if you are offended. I want to know if you feel the same way, as I feel about you. For the first time, my heart leaps at the sound of your name. I see brown hair and I think of you. I hear laughter and think back to the day we first met. My days and nights are filled with thoughts of you. And I must know if you return my own feelings of love. For if you do not, I beg you to release the hold you have on my heart, and I pray that we can depart as friends. I await your reply.
I remain, most sincerely,
Lothgil.
With a sigh, Lothgil set the quill down and re-read the letter. She felt a calm settle over her. She needed to know, but didn't want to be too demanding. She laughed as an image came to her mind, of her holding a knife to Thorinell's throat and demanding if he loved her or not.
She sighed, as her hands quickly and expertly folded the letter and placed a single blob of wax on it, and sealed it. Hesitating for mere seconds, she flipped it over and scrawled elegantly.
To: Thorinell
She bit her lip to keep a smile off of her face, but didn't quite succeed. She remembered that day, just a few short weeks ago when her ada had knocked upon her door.
*~*Flashback*~*
"Yes?"
"Can I come in, little 'Gil?" Thranduil asked.
A smile instantly lit up Lothgil's face. She quickly stood, dropping the letter in a drawer and quickly closing it. "Yes Ada. Come in."
As Thranduil entered, he felt as though he was looking in a mirror. Lothgil had her Ada's features, but in a more gentle way. She was rather plain, if you could say that about an elf. But she shone with a quiet beauty that easily rivaled any other female. "How is my little 'Gil?" He asked, pressing a kiss upon her forehead.
"I am well ada." She replied, pressing a kiss of her own upon his cheek. "What is this all about?" She asked, leading her ada to a chair.
"I wanted to tell you something, that I promised your nana I would tell you before she left." Thranduil smiled.
"Oh?"
"Yes." Thranduil gently tugged at her wrist until she knelt beside the chair. He placed a finger upon her lips. "You have lived all these years under my protection and care." He said. "You have always been a loving child and you have had a bigger freedom than most females have, but I there is one thing that I possess, that will soon be someone else's." He said tenderly.
He easily read the question in her eyes, and lifted his finger from her lips, and gently placed his hand over her heart. "I still hold the key to your heart." He lifted his other hand, which held a key tied to a ribbon. "This is but a symbol of that key. But it is a key that you will give to your husband." He opened up her hand and carefully dropped it into her open palm. "Thank you, for keeping yourself pure." He placed a kiss on her forehead. "It is a gift that your husband will treasure."
Lothgil's lip quivered as tears welled in her eyes. "Thank you Ada." She whispered, as she wrapped her arms around him.
*~*End Flashback*~*
Lothgil gently drew out the ribbon. She still carried it around with her as a reminder of how precious her purity and her heart was. To give the key of her heart to the elf she loved.
The key had been made of pure mithril. The top of the key had been made into a heart, and in that heart a tiny key had been crafted. It was a beautiful piece of workmanship. One that Thranduil had ordered himself. Loriel had also received a gift like it before she had wed. And Lothgil could clearly remember Loriel's wedding.
*I, Loriel, give you Galador, the key to my heart. I have waited for you all my life, and I will stand by your side forever. This I promise you."*
Lothgil leaned back a dreamy smile on her lips. She couldn't wait for her own wedding day. She was jerked from her revere by footsteps outside her door.
"Lothgil?"
"Yes Lomion?"
"Come quickly to the throne room."
*~*~*
Thranduil was dressed for battle. The packs had been quickly packed and horses were ready for them to leave immediately. He had sent for his children to tell of Legolas' capture. Yet as he waited for their arrival, he couldn't help but feel a small spark of unspeakable fear.
His son. His son had been captured. His son! Thranduil closed his eyes and sent a silent prayer. "Valar give him strength."
The door burst open as his children rushed into the room. Giving them only the smallest details, Lomion and Thranduil were soon mounted and ready to ride off. Lomion had said a quick goodbye to Lainiel, while Thranduil had made sure that they would all be all right.
Once assured, Thranduil and Lomion, along with a host of warrior elves, rode off into the woods, their faces were like flint, and for an instant, Lainiel almost felt sorry for the Easterlings. Almost.
Reviewer responses:
A/N: Look for the chapters to be just a little bit longer. :-) I got my grove going! Lol. Wow, I got several reviews for the last chapter. Thank you all!
HalandLeg4ever: Yes, Thranduil can finally go rescue his son. Lol. I saw that you posted after I posted my chapter lol. Oh well. I am still re- writing your fic, if you are still ok with it. I am probably going to have to do some serious changes, if you don't like it let me know and I will stop;-) Thanks for the review!
Deana: Yes, poor Legolas. He needs a hug! Lol. Don't worry, he will be safe. But not for a bit. ;-) Thanks for the review!
Sparrow Greenleaf: lol. Yes, Tourec is dead. But I did like the name. Tourec. Not bad for just typing a name huh? Lol. Thanks for the review. Review. Review. Review. Whoa. Echoing again! Lol. Lol. Lol. Lol.
Gwyn: Aww, you really think Legolas' brothers are cute? Aww! And yes, Thalion told the council off. Lol. Stubborn pride and a nasty temper is what keeps the orcs back;-) Thanks for the review! (And yes, I could tell you were in a weird mood. Lol) Thanks for the review!
Feanen: Yay! No Very interesting chapter. Lol. I'm just picking on you, nothing personal.;-) Yes, Legolas' resolve is very astounding. I think he gets it from his ada. Lol. Thanks for the review!
Colagreenleaf (ecole2001@aol.com): Thanks! Oh, and ummm. Haldir, Elladan & Elrohir won't be coming in for a little while, but shhhhhhh! That is a secret. Lol. Thanks for the review!
louise_oblique (louise2oblique@hotmail.com): That's ok. It just looks like I got more reviews! Lol. Thank you very much! Actually I wasn't too pleased with the previous chapter. I have no idea why; I think I am going to revise a bit. But we shall see. Yes, to hear a scream and know it's not Legolas has to be very trying. Poor elves. Thanks! I like Legolas' siblings as well;-) Thanks for the review!
Kit Cloudkicker: She does now! Lol. Yes, since Legolas plays a very important role later on in the FOTR she is going to know. Yes, Legolas is just as stubborn as Thranduil and his two brothers. Boy, that would be a very long argument if you got all four in it! Lol. Thanks for the review!
Cagedphoenix: Hey thanks! And thanks for reading it! Thanks for the review!
Ginny Lorina Fireseerer: Thank you! I'm glad you like it! Thanks for the review!
White Wolf1: Yes, Thalion gets that boldness from his father. Lol. Yes, Legolas is in a world of hurt, and what I just did to him, didn't help a bit either. I know it's hard to see Legolas with anything else than he has in the movies, lol. It's hard to picture brown or black hair. But no hair? Yikes! But yes, it will grow back quickly. Yes, King Thranduil is very fierce without someone hurting his kids. But, I think I would like and hate to have him as my dad. Just like my dad now. Lol. Thanks for the review!
Whew. Think I'm done writing replies and I check my emails and there is yet another one! Lol. 18 reviews in all, on ff.net and soa.com very cool. Thanks guys!
RATING: R (For darker themes. Please use your judgement)
Chapter 10
When all hope is lost
If your tears want out, then let them fall
They'll hit your cheeks and then dissolve
You see nothing heals quite like time
It fills the gap between dreams and real life
So give your pain a chance to dry
(Quest of Many Trails written by Nate Cole and Gabe Combs, sung by Plus One. CD: EX*DUS)
It was snowing. The white snowflakes fell gently down among the trees, coating everything. It was a very pretty site had not Legolas been chained and bound. The tent flap had been left open, purposely all the time now. Though usually Legolas hardly felt the cold, he could feel it's icy clutches around his weakened body. Even elves had to eat, and he had not been given anything to eat for nearly five days. Not only that, but his blood couldn't replenish it's self with the small amounts of water he had been given each day. He was weakening by the moment, and if someone didn't come soon. All they would find would be his dead body.
His attention was caught by a loud crash. His ears caught the sound of an intense argument in another tent.
"You did what!"
"It's just an elf, Trozel."
"Just an elf! That elf could lead us to the Mirkwood palace!"
Legolas felt a shiver of fear race through him as the words reached him.
"He is no longer yours."
"But... But. I paid for him, fair and square!" Came the protesting voice of Tourec.
There was an almost silent whisper as the other Easterling whipped his sword out and easily cut Tourec's head off. Legolas could hear the sickening thud on, as the head hit the hard ground "And I just did." Came the mocking voice.
Legolas could feel panic racing through his veins. This was something unexpected. The man pushed the tent flaps down as he entered. He stared at Legolas, examining him carefully.
"You will tell me where the Mirkwood realm is now." The words were harsh.
Legolas straightened his back as much as he possibly could. "No." He stated calmly, despite the fear and panic, making his heart pound so loud, it was a wonder that the human didn't hear it.
"You will tell me slave, or you will regret it." The words were ruthlessly backed up by a sharp backhand.
"Is that all you can do?" Legolas taunted lightly.
The human stepped forward, gently touching Legolas' cheek. Caressing it, in an almost tender gesture.
Legolas suppressed a shiver, not knowing or liking what he saw in the human's eyes.
"All I want is the location of the woodland realm." The human said calmly, still caressing the smooth skin. "We can do it the hard way or the easy way." He stepped back. "I know you will not tell me easily, so when the pain becomes to much, all you have to do is scream and I will know that you have had enough and then you will tell me the exact location." He twirled a riding crop. "Or you can remain silent and I will break your soul into a thousand pieces and you will beg for death." He stepped forward, laying a hand on Legolas' bare chest.
"I know how to break a soul." The human said with such a quiet confidence that Legolas drew back from the piercing empty gaze that seemed to bore straight into his soul.
"You will beg for death." The human continued. "But you shall not receive it." The human gave a thin, cruel smile that sent shivers up Legolas' back. He clenched his fist. "I can take or break your soul." He whispered. "Or if you tell me. I will give you a quick death." He stepped back, shrugging indifferently. "It is your choice."
He gave Legolas one more searching gaze then stepped outside, leaving a terror stricken prince to consider his words.
Legolas closed his eyes and fought down the nausea that threatened to overwhelm him. He had heard many stories of how a soul could be broken. One stood out more than any other.
Rape.
It tore a soul in two, leaving behind a broken elf, who usually died. He had an inkling that if he didn't give the human what he wanted, that was the way he would take his soul. By raping him. Tearing his soul in two.
But if that was the cost for his ada. His brothers. His sisters. His home to remain safe. It was a small price to pay. Better he died than the hundreds of elves around and in his Ada's realm.
He took a deep breath, stilling his breath more a moment, before allowing it to leave. He leaned his head against the pole.
*"I can take or break your soul."*
The very echo of the human's words brought fear to the prince.
"No." He whispered. He squared his shoulders, lifted his head high and put a make of indifference on his face.
No, he would not reveal the location of the realm to his captors. Not even if they took his soul, his body or his life. He took another breath. He would do it for his ada. He would do it for Lomion and Lainiel. He would do it for Thalion and Miriwen. He would do it for Tasari. He would do it for Lothgil.
But oh he would miss them. In his minds eye he could see his ada throwing his arms open wide, welcoming him back home. He pictured everyone. Ada. Lomion. Lainiel. Thalion. Miriwen. Tasari. Lothgil. Aragorn. Elladan. Elrohir. Lord Elrond. Adoril. Meldon. There were so many that he would miss. But it was for the better they were not here, they would not see his turmoil. His pain. His fear. He closed his eyes, hearing footsteps outside the tent.
*'This is for you ada.'* He thought.
The tent flaps flew open as the human came back in.
"Well?" He purred.
Legolas let a smile show. A smile full of contempt. "Do you really think I would betray my king?" He asked, his voice full of scorn. He met the human's gaze with one of his own. "No."
The human smiled almost happily. "Your pain is something I will enjoy." He said almost cheerfully. "But I will not take your soul quite yet." He put two fingers in his mouth and let out a piercing whistle. "I would have your body broken first."
Three men came into the tent and drew their swords as the human unchained Legolas and drug him outside in the snow. There had been a pole placed at the center of the camp and there Legolas was once more bound to it.
The human glanced up at the falling night sky and smiled. "Have fun." He let out another whistle and several dogs raced up and stared hungrily at Legolas, having smelled his blood.
"Guard." The human ordered and turned and walked away. Leaving a frightened prince among a throng of hungry dogs.
*~*~*
Adoril forced himself to calm his racing heart. He knew very well that Legolas was in a far more serious position now then before. All of the elves had heard the cry or rather scream that had come from the tent. Adoril and Meldon had to be physically restrained from rushing in the tent and killing everyone on site.
It was far to tempting just to loose some arrows. But as Legolas had said, if they got suspicious of the rescue attempts, they would know that he was more than a bodyguard. Something that right now wouldn't matter. A bodyguard wouldn't know any secret locations, but the Easterling had said he wanted the location of the realm. Something that even a small elfling would know.
He turned, grabbing a piece of paper and quickly scrawled something on it. He passed it to the closest elf. "Get this to King Thranduil immediately." He ordered.
*~*~*
*'All hope it lost.'*
Galadriel woke with a jerk, placing a hand over her forehead. Something was about to happen. Something terrible.
"What is it?" Celeborn asked quietly.
Galadriel shook her head. "I cannot see." She whispered. "But it is something terrible. Something terrible is about to happen." She threw the covers off, throwing a robe around her nightgown. "I will look in the mirror." She said and quietly slipped out.
She quickly descended the long staircase to the small glade. Dipping the long pitcher in the fountain she quickly poured water into the nearby basin. As she stared in it, she could see many things. But one image stood out above all else.
It was the youngest prince of Mirkwood. He had been captured and was in desperate need of help.
Galadriel stepped back, but not before her attention was caught by another image. It showed the prince in Lothlorien, a top on of the flets, casting a sorrowful gaze over his shoulder. Then it showed another image, of the prince standing slightly hidden in a stone archway. A slow smile spreading across his face. In his hand he held the Evenstar. But he was looking at a man, standing in front of him, and carefully placed it in the man's hand.
Then the mirror stilled and once more only held water. Galadriel stepped back, her eyes immediately searching for Thalion. She quickly ascended the stairs and told Celeborn of the peril the youngest prince was in, who immediately rose to tell Thalion the news.
*'When all hope is lost.'*
The words previously spoken by Thalion, echoed in Celeborn's mind. Thalion had lost four warriors, and he could also loose his youngest brother. Celeborn halted at the edge of the flet, suddenly knowing he would need more than himself to keep Thalion in Lorien until he was fully rested, brother in trouble or not.
He turned and called Haldir, Elrond and the Mirkwood warrior, Telos and together they entered Thalion's room.
As they entered Thalion immediately jerked awake, his hand desperately searching for a weapon to defend himself.
"Peace Thranduillion." Celeborn soothed.
Thalion blinked at the elves, uncertain as to why there were there. He pushed himself up, but fell back down when his elbow buckled. Telos quickly came to his aid and helped him up.
Suddenly worried Elrond placed a hand over Thalion's heart and forehead and closed his eyes. For several moments the room was eerily silent, each elf awaiting Elrond's words.
"You are hurting." Elrond said quietly.
Thalion cast weary eyes upon the elven lord.
"The weight of the shadow is heavy." Elrond opened his eyes. "But you are afraid to share it, lest it descends upon another."
Thalion's lip quivered as he fought to keep the grief, sorrow and pain down. Celeborn gently soothed a stray strand of hair from Thalion's face. "Let it go Thalion." He said quietly.
They all watched as a single tear fell from the corner of Thalion's eye. Telos gently drew the younger elf into his arms, and with a sob, Thalion threw his arms around Telos and began to sob as if his heart was breaking. And it was close to breaking.
Telos had always been there when Thalion was growing up. He was like a father figure to him and often when Thranduil wasn't around, Thalion was able to open up to Telos instead. It had been many years since Thalion had truly cried. And all Telos could do was whisper comforting words, while he rubbed Thalion's back.
Several moments passed. The only sound heard in the flet, was the heartbreaking sound of Thalion's sobs, as he let out his grief. Taking a shuddering breath, Thalion drew back, wiping his eyes. He smiled weakly when he saw the large wet spot on Telos' tunic.
"Sorry." He muttered.
Elrond smiled gently as he handed the prince a handkerchief. "There is no need to apologize, Thalion. Perhaps we need to apologize for not realizing your grief sooner." He chuckled. "But then again, after treating Legolas for many years, I'm not surprised that you hid it."
Thalion grinned weakly. "The stubborn pride of the Thranduil clan ay?"
"Yes." Elrond smiled.
Thalion turned a curious gaze to Celeborn. "Surely you aren't all here because I have not let my grief out." He stated.
Celeborn shook his head. "No, it was not." He settled himself on a nearby chair. "As you may know, my wife, Galadriel often has premonitions. She had one just minutes ago about your brother."
"Legolas?" Thalion stiffened.
Celeborn nodded. "Yes, she has seen that he is in dire need of help."
Instantly Thalion pushed himself off, grabbing a shirt and immediately began to button it. "What else?" He asked tersely.
"You can't go." Telos stated.
Thalion's hands stilled. "What?"
"You can't go." Elrond said quietly from the bed. "There is to much at risk for you to go."
Thalion snorted. "You are saying that my little brother is in dire need of help and then you say I can't help him?" He asked incredulously.
"Yes."
Thalion turned towards Celeborn. "You don't understand." He stated. "If Lady Galadriel can see he is need of help, then the novices have either been killed or captured. They would never let Legolas get captured!"
"Thalion.." Telos started.
"No. I have to go. Telos you must understand this!" Thalion interrupted. "If he was captured by Easterlings, and they found out that Legolas is a prince." He shook his head as the images of Legolas' dead body floated in his mind. "They will torture him until they get the information they want. And once done having their fun." Thalion ground out. "They will either kill him or make his life even worse." He cast furious eyes upon the two elven lords. "I must go. I need to go. I have to go."
"And what?" Haldir spoke up. "Kill yourself in the process? Four warriors died just to get here. How many more will die trying to get back?"
Suddenly the fight went out of Thalion. "I have to." He whispered, sinking back down on the bed. "He needs me." With a sob, he covered his face. "He needs me."
*~*~*
Dear Thorinell,
I hope this letter finds you well, as am I. I hope that your settlement has gotten enough meat to preserve over the winter. I fear that we have to keep hunting longer.
Thorinell, I want to ask you a question. One that I hope you will not be offended by, if it does I must know, even if you are offended. I want to know if you feel the same way, as I feel about you. For the first time, my heart leaps at the sound of your name. I see brown hair and I think of you. I hear laughter and think back to the day we first met. My days and nights are filled with thoughts of you. And I must know if you return my own feelings of love. For if you do not, I beg you to release the hold you have on my heart, and I pray that we can depart as friends. I await your reply.
I remain, most sincerely,
Lothgil.
With a sigh, Lothgil set the quill down and re-read the letter. She felt a calm settle over her. She needed to know, but didn't want to be too demanding. She laughed as an image came to her mind, of her holding a knife to Thorinell's throat and demanding if he loved her or not.
She sighed, as her hands quickly and expertly folded the letter and placed a single blob of wax on it, and sealed it. Hesitating for mere seconds, she flipped it over and scrawled elegantly.
To: Thorinell
She bit her lip to keep a smile off of her face, but didn't quite succeed. She remembered that day, just a few short weeks ago when her ada had knocked upon her door.
*~*Flashback*~*
"Yes?"
"Can I come in, little 'Gil?" Thranduil asked.
A smile instantly lit up Lothgil's face. She quickly stood, dropping the letter in a drawer and quickly closing it. "Yes Ada. Come in."
As Thranduil entered, he felt as though he was looking in a mirror. Lothgil had her Ada's features, but in a more gentle way. She was rather plain, if you could say that about an elf. But she shone with a quiet beauty that easily rivaled any other female. "How is my little 'Gil?" He asked, pressing a kiss upon her forehead.
"I am well ada." She replied, pressing a kiss of her own upon his cheek. "What is this all about?" She asked, leading her ada to a chair.
"I wanted to tell you something, that I promised your nana I would tell you before she left." Thranduil smiled.
"Oh?"
"Yes." Thranduil gently tugged at her wrist until she knelt beside the chair. He placed a finger upon her lips. "You have lived all these years under my protection and care." He said. "You have always been a loving child and you have had a bigger freedom than most females have, but I there is one thing that I possess, that will soon be someone else's." He said tenderly.
He easily read the question in her eyes, and lifted his finger from her lips, and gently placed his hand over her heart. "I still hold the key to your heart." He lifted his other hand, which held a key tied to a ribbon. "This is but a symbol of that key. But it is a key that you will give to your husband." He opened up her hand and carefully dropped it into her open palm. "Thank you, for keeping yourself pure." He placed a kiss on her forehead. "It is a gift that your husband will treasure."
Lothgil's lip quivered as tears welled in her eyes. "Thank you Ada." She whispered, as she wrapped her arms around him.
*~*End Flashback*~*
Lothgil gently drew out the ribbon. She still carried it around with her as a reminder of how precious her purity and her heart was. To give the key of her heart to the elf she loved.
The key had been made of pure mithril. The top of the key had been made into a heart, and in that heart a tiny key had been crafted. It was a beautiful piece of workmanship. One that Thranduil had ordered himself. Loriel had also received a gift like it before she had wed. And Lothgil could clearly remember Loriel's wedding.
*I, Loriel, give you Galador, the key to my heart. I have waited for you all my life, and I will stand by your side forever. This I promise you."*
Lothgil leaned back a dreamy smile on her lips. She couldn't wait for her own wedding day. She was jerked from her revere by footsteps outside her door.
"Lothgil?"
"Yes Lomion?"
"Come quickly to the throne room."
*~*~*
Thranduil was dressed for battle. The packs had been quickly packed and horses were ready for them to leave immediately. He had sent for his children to tell of Legolas' capture. Yet as he waited for their arrival, he couldn't help but feel a small spark of unspeakable fear.
His son. His son had been captured. His son! Thranduil closed his eyes and sent a silent prayer. "Valar give him strength."
The door burst open as his children rushed into the room. Giving them only the smallest details, Lomion and Thranduil were soon mounted and ready to ride off. Lomion had said a quick goodbye to Lainiel, while Thranduil had made sure that they would all be all right.
Once assured, Thranduil and Lomion, along with a host of warrior elves, rode off into the woods, their faces were like flint, and for an instant, Lainiel almost felt sorry for the Easterlings. Almost.
Reviewer responses:
A/N: Look for the chapters to be just a little bit longer. :-) I got my grove going! Lol. Wow, I got several reviews for the last chapter. Thank you all!
HalandLeg4ever: Yes, Thranduil can finally go rescue his son. Lol. I saw that you posted after I posted my chapter lol. Oh well. I am still re- writing your fic, if you are still ok with it. I am probably going to have to do some serious changes, if you don't like it let me know and I will stop;-) Thanks for the review!
Deana: Yes, poor Legolas. He needs a hug! Lol. Don't worry, he will be safe. But not for a bit. ;-) Thanks for the review!
Sparrow Greenleaf: lol. Yes, Tourec is dead. But I did like the name. Tourec. Not bad for just typing a name huh? Lol. Thanks for the review. Review. Review. Review. Whoa. Echoing again! Lol. Lol. Lol. Lol.
Gwyn: Aww, you really think Legolas' brothers are cute? Aww! And yes, Thalion told the council off. Lol. Stubborn pride and a nasty temper is what keeps the orcs back;-) Thanks for the review! (And yes, I could tell you were in a weird mood. Lol) Thanks for the review!
Feanen: Yay! No Very interesting chapter. Lol. I'm just picking on you, nothing personal.;-) Yes, Legolas' resolve is very astounding. I think he gets it from his ada. Lol. Thanks for the review!
Colagreenleaf (ecole2001@aol.com): Thanks! Oh, and ummm. Haldir, Elladan & Elrohir won't be coming in for a little while, but shhhhhhh! That is a secret. Lol. Thanks for the review!
louise_oblique (louise2oblique@hotmail.com): That's ok. It just looks like I got more reviews! Lol. Thank you very much! Actually I wasn't too pleased with the previous chapter. I have no idea why; I think I am going to revise a bit. But we shall see. Yes, to hear a scream and know it's not Legolas has to be very trying. Poor elves. Thanks! I like Legolas' siblings as well;-) Thanks for the review!
Kit Cloudkicker: She does now! Lol. Yes, since Legolas plays a very important role later on in the FOTR she is going to know. Yes, Legolas is just as stubborn as Thranduil and his two brothers. Boy, that would be a very long argument if you got all four in it! Lol. Thanks for the review!
Cagedphoenix: Hey thanks! And thanks for reading it! Thanks for the review!
Ginny Lorina Fireseerer: Thank you! I'm glad you like it! Thanks for the review!
White Wolf1: Yes, Thalion gets that boldness from his father. Lol. Yes, Legolas is in a world of hurt, and what I just did to him, didn't help a bit either. I know it's hard to see Legolas with anything else than he has in the movies, lol. It's hard to picture brown or black hair. But no hair? Yikes! But yes, it will grow back quickly. Yes, King Thranduil is very fierce without someone hurting his kids. But, I think I would like and hate to have him as my dad. Just like my dad now. Lol. Thanks for the review!
Whew. Think I'm done writing replies and I check my emails and there is yet another one! Lol. 18 reviews in all, on ff.net and soa.com very cool. Thanks guys!