Okay I really apologize for not updating sooner. School, Work, Theatre you all understand. So I guess you're all ready to hear what happens now.
Chapter 5: Punishment
When Azura awoke the next morning, she was surprised and pleased to still be lying with Legolas. He was already awake and smiled down at her. Then he gently kissed her forehead. "We better return back to the palace. People will get furious if we linger any longer."
He took her hand and helped her to her feet. She leaned in and hugged him. Together they walked back to the palace in complete silence. The moment was just to precious to ruin with words. The day was just beginning and the forest seemed to be waking up around them.
As they entered the palace they soon realized that their disappearance had put the place into an uproar. From out of nowhere a hand tugged at Azura's dress and pulled her aside. Legolas was confused and with a quick check of the area for any passerby's followed. He found Azura talking to her twin sister, Aducollo. She had the same looks as Azura, but he could easily tell them apart by what they were wearing. He went closer and heard them speaking.
"You're so lucky I got to you first sister. The king is furious with you, but I have no idea why. I suggest you go there right away. Pelladil is saying she knows why, but she won't say anything to anyone. I fear your life is in great danger," Aducollo said holding onto Azura's arms.
"Aducollo I thank you for all the trouble you went through to get this information to me safely." She stopped when she realized that Aducollo was looking at Legolas. "Aducollo what's a matter?"
"I just remembered your highness that your father and your friend are looking for you as well." She turned back to Azura. "You have got to stop sneaking out at night. I can't cover for you anymore. Please tell me this is the last time."
"You are being very brave about this Aducollo. Until we solve this problem there will be a few more times where I will have to sneak out. I promise that soon all of this will be over."
"Don't promise just yet. With this type of situation it would be a wise idea not to promise anything."
Azura nodded and hugged Aducollo. Legolas bowed and ducked out of their hiding place. Azura soon followed and they headed towards the throne room in dead silence.
When they entered Thranduil looked up from a document on his lap. Gimli was sitting next to him leaning on his ax.
"I'm pleased that you finally decided to come and see me," Thranduil said looking sternly at both of them. Azura I'm very displeased with your performance last night. You told our guest that if he rang the bell you would answer. It rang quite a few times in the night. Why didn't you answer like you said you would?"
Azura was terrified. She had no idea what to do or say. Legolas felt sorry for her and stepped forward. "Father do not be angered with her. It is my fault that she was away from her duties."
"What are you saying my son?"
"She had told me once that she wanted to work in the stables with the horses, so I took her with me as I took care of Arod. We couldn't hear the bell from there, so I apologize."
Thranduil sat there a moment, then leaned forward. "Legolas this time your explanations will not save this girl from the punishment I am to place upon her. Azura you will be confined to your quarters tonight. I have let your behavior slide to many times and I have run out of forgiveness." He turned to Legolas. "As your punishment I will be choosing a bride for you seeing as you're taking so long to choose. You need to settle down and have a family sooner or later."
Azura's face grew pale. Legolas looked over at her, but turned back towards Thranduil. "But father…"
"I will talk no more about this. Leave now," he said as his eyes glanced down at the document again.
"Father, I have found someone. I wanted it to be a surprise, but you've given me no choice."
Thranduil looked up. "Well now. I must say that I am pleased. Who is she? Where is she from?"
"I will not give out that information yet. All I can say is that she'll be coming tonight. I must ask to have Azura's charges put aside, because she has agreed to bring my bride to the feast for me."
"Fine then, but if she steps out of line again. I will give the worst punishment imaginable. Exile!"
Azura's heart almost stopped. "Exile," she whispered.
"Now leave my quarters. Legolas keep an eye on her. I don't want anymore trouble."
Legolas nodded. Azura bolted from the throne room. With a quick look at his father, Legolas raced after her…
Ohh This one was exciting to write. I can't wait to see what happens. I hope the rest of you can't either.