Title: Moon Rune
Author: GundamNymph
E-Mail: GundamNymph@yahoo.com OR GundamNymph@hotmail.com
Rating: PG13-R
Disclaimer: Don't own LOTR, never did. Poor me. This is FICTION. None of it
ever happened. None of it exists.*sad*
Summary: The three Slayers of our time visit Middle-Earth to kick Vampire
@$$. Romance, action.what more could you ask for? Ellen/Legolas
Bonnie/Damon etc.
The Mailing List Address: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/GNsCafe?yguid=131309607
A/N: Thanks to Celtic Dreamer (or Chibi_Galaxia, whatever her name is right now), for inspiring me about new characters, and for sticking with the story these MANY unproductive months.
Also, thanks to Crawler aka Fatismal_Spider. She gave me a link to a Sindarin dictionary, which I have used for this chapter. Though, it is VERY limited. Anyone know of any other elven dictionaries??? I'm desperate!
My thanks to Tofu, who left a LONG and thoughtful review. Your review helped me think of a way to save this chapter, and 'certain' relationships. *winks* But I do warn you guys.I am losing interest in this story.I DO hope to finish it, though.
Warning: Unless I get enough reviews pleading otherwise, this is no longer a Celia/Frodo romance. I don't know WHY I did it in the first place.
*telepathy or soulmates talking* **Galad-nor speaking** 'Elvish' "Common"
Spirits so far: Arneania: Spirit Of Light and Guidance. Afaeria: Spirit Of Lost Souls and Keeper of the Dead Ardeia: Spirit Of the Wood and Creatures Within Arcaya: Spirit of Founding, Relics and History
Whoa, this is a LONG chapter.
Chapter 17
The remaining members of the Fellowship halted and turned around in surprise as a great glowing erupted from Herdare's tunic. With trembling fingers, he drew out the charm that linked to Legolas. The charm glowed brightly, like a small shining star. Pale, the elf turned to Gandalf and Aragorn. The man eyed it warily. "Herdare, what does that mean???" Aragorn feared he knew the answer. "Legolas.his life.it will be taken from him.in a matter of moments." "What!!??" Aragorn looked at the Hobbits, who looked ready to faint. "Is there anything we can do?!?" Herdare looked at Frodo, warmed at the determination and worry on the Hobbit's face. "No.I am afraid not, Little one. We can only hope that Boromir can help, or that Ellen has reached him."
*********
Ellen turned in horror, her already fair skin paling. Legolas felt protective of her, as he felt walls slipping away in her mind. He sent warm thoughts through their connection, trying to soothe her mind, and readied for battle. Boromir looked at them, wondering what was going on (poor human), and Damon looked at Ellen in worry. The girl tended to have melt downs after holding emotions and events in for too long. Usually, it was due to the stress of school, being a Slayer, Family problems or a combination of all of them. And they seemed to happen at the worst times, the last one by the river in Rivendell being an exception. He shook his head, as the sly vampire closed in on them. They could NOT afford to lose Ellen at a time like this. He turned to Boromir. "A vampire Master is headed this way. Prepare for battle." The human nodded, taking up his sword. Damon turned to Ellen. "Ellen?" Wide eyes turned to him. "W-What?" Her mouth had gone dry. "If we're going to survive this, you need to calm down. He'll be here within the minute." *This is one you CAN'T save, Ellie.* Ellen closed her eyes at his touch, as he hugged her. She was beginning to shake, even as he pulled away; but was able to steady her bow thanks to Legolas's soothing mind send. Forcing down her emotions, and putting on a mask, she faced east. She could feel a shadow enter her mind through Legolas, seconds before the unnamed vampire crashed through the trees. After a quick nudge from Damon, an arrow was loosed. The vampire was startled at this attack, but managed to catch it. He snapped it in half with his fingers, sending her a smirk. There was pure ice in those eyes. *You try to harm me?* The voice was cold and sneering. Her heart pounded, and she suddenly felt cold. Hate radiated toward them, putting a chink in her mask. She was scant seconds away from a melt down, and as she watched the vampire smile broadly, she realized he knew it, too. He swung off of the fiery beast, so much like Galad-nor had been like. Fingers shaking, Ellen fired another arrow. This time, the vampire let it just sink into his chest. Her aim was off, hitting him just to the right of the heart. He smiled, as the arrow suddenly burst into flames. As it disappeared, similar flames erupted in his eyes, as he stalked closer. Boromir moved in front of Ellen and Damon, sensing the girl's distress. The vampire formed a blade of fire in his hands, deflecting a blow from the human. Boromir went flying.right into the trunk of a tree. He lay there, dazed. Ellen took a deep breath. "That was.new." The sword disappeared as he continued forward. Damon was not sure what the vampire wanted, but clearly, it was not good. He took up the elven sword from his waist, and held it in front of him. The Master eyed him as you would a bug. He reformed his sword, before leaping into action.
Damon turned away from the blow, before attacking the vampire with his own sword. Ellen could barely follow the many sword parries and thrusts and blows. The Master now held a smile upon his face, fangs lowered, amused. It was like a dance. A very, VERY fast paced dance. Both being vampire Masters, they were almost evenly matched.until the fiery blade got past Damon's defenses, and nearly gutted him. The Master was looking at Ellen as he sent his blade flying, towards Damon's neck.
Ellen closed her eyes tightly, tears burning the back of her eyes, her mind screaming. At Legolas's gasp of wonder, she opened them. Damon's blade was up, stabbing the vampire through the throat. The Master's blade was not even a millimeter away from Damon's throat. A single thread of light kept it there, extinguishing the flames where they touched. As Ellen watched in awe, it started to disappear.
Wide eyed, she tried yanking at it with her mind, and it came back to wrap around the hell blade. Screw it all. She had been the one to form the light that protected Damon's throat. And she hadn't even done it consciously. Damon stared wide eyed at Ellen, before looking back at the Master. The Master managed to pull the sword from his throat, gagging on his blood, before he erupted.into flame.
The dancing fingers encircled the skin of his throat, healing everything it touched. Ellen blinked, and the next thing she knew, Damon was flying. He disappeared somewhere in the trees. She took a step back as the Master turned to leer at her disdainfully. She swallowed hard, as he began to speak.
"I see that you have partially Mastered the Light. It serves you now."
Ellen took another step back, as he continued forward. Bile was raising in the back of her throat, as her stomach became quite ill. It seemed she had gotten over her 'attraction' to him. Now, it was quite the opposite.
"You are no match for me, child."
*Ellen?* The elf was worried.
Her mind raced. He called her a child.but all of the vampires in Middle- Earth were new.right? It didn't make sense. There was an ancient evil about him. And those eyes.where had she seen them before?? Crimson turning into flame during battle. No, wait a minute.
She sent out her mind to Legolas's, as HE continued talking. Soothing tendrils met her there, even though Legolas himself was getting worried.
"Did you truly think you could defeat me? When you don't even know who I am?"
Ellen shifted through her soul mates memories, searching, dread eating at her heart. Finally, she came upon it.the fight for Middle-Earth. Mordor, where Legolas, Gimli, Gandalf, and Aragorn led men against the forces of Sauron.
Legolas was fighting orc after orc, until he heard the screech, and looked up. There, beyond the black gates, near the tower with the One eye looking down on them, the Nazgul flew on steed like dragons.
"It's like I said before, Maiden. I would hate to see such beauty and Power go to waste. Join me.or die here and now for my own uses. And trust me, it won't be a pleasant death."
The tower, tall and dark. At the top of it, the Eye. Wreathed in flame.fire.
Feeling sick, Ellen looked into the Vampire's eyes, knowing what she'd find there. She could feel Legolas stiffen in dread as she did so, reading her frenzied thoughts. She heard him drop his bow, then the shick of his blades being drawn.
"Sauron." It was a broken whisper, spoken by both.
The Vampire smiled, obviously pleased. "For a minute, I was worried I had misjudged you both." And with that, he dropped his guise. The wet blanket that had covered his mind fell, and darkness erupted. Shadows searched and destroyed as they expanded from his form. Trees fell and blackened, and grass seemingly disappeared to be replaced by dirt.
Ellen felt it surround her, and suffocate her. She stepped back into Legolas, who was bent over, trying to block out the dying tree's screams. She covered one of his armed hands with her own, trying to draw strength from their linking souls. It helped, a little. But she was still gagging, feeling sick. Legolas was more successful, and raised his blades in defense, stepping in front of Ellen.
"What is your answer, Maiden? Clearly you will not win in any fight against me. Both the elves AND men weren't able to defeat me. What makes you think you will?"
Cold settled on her mind and all over her, but as she fought to stay connected with the fair elf beside her, a blazing warmth spread from her throat. It was the gift Arneania gave her. The moonstone on the delicate chain glowed with Light.
Sauron was glaring at the pendant that he had not seen until now. Trembling fingers touched the medallion, and instantly stilled and became warm. She focused on it, and the heat spread through her and into Legolas. The shaking stopped, and she was able to calm her mind. Beside her, Legolas had relaxed. She raised bright eyes to the Vampire in front of her.
"I don't think we will win."
The vampire gave her an odd look.as if he wasn't sure to be alarmed or happy by this turn of events.
She lifted her chin, and looked him squarely in the eyes. "I KNOW we will win. You know why?"
He glared at her, trying to figure out the origin of the stone, and where she had gotten it. It did not glow with ordinary light. It glowed with the Light of the stars and moon. It glowed with the Light that had once graced the Valar, and still graced the Spirits of the other world. Was it possible, that the Spirits were getting involved? They had not before, so why would they do so now? If they did, he might not win this time.
"I am a Slayer from another world, and so are my friends. We travel with the former Fellowship who won the last battle for Middle-Earth, and defeated you once. This time, not only will the Men and Elves join the fight, but every creature that walks this world. I have already vowed that the Power of the Elves will be restored, and it will be."
"Even with the Light of the Spirits you will not be able to defeat me, child. I am almost as old as the race of the elves itself. I am no longer Mortal in any sense. I am no mere Vampire from your world, or other worlds. I can not be simply slayed, because I can not be destroyed."
"Yes, but you are no longer a potent spirit. You are grounded to earth, and have needs to stay strong. The trees whisper.they say you can be defeated." The vampire raised an eyebrow at the elf, amused at his confession.
"Damn the elves and your daft past times. I always knew you were missing a nut or two."
Legolas shifted beside her, sliding his dagger into its' sheath, before holding her hand. He stood tall and proud as any Prince, meeting the Dark Lords eyes as well. "You are wrong to think you are indestructible. Nothing has that power. I have aided to defeat you once, and I will do it again. This time, we will ALL make sure you don't return. You can not win. You are one creature: dead, alive or undead. And we are many. Even as strong as you are, you can not face us all and expect victory."
Sauron's lip curled. "I doubt it. You will die, elf. You will all die. I will take pleasure in it. And I will win. Again."
Unknown to them, Boromir was awake and leaning against a blackened fallen tree.
"You may win the battles, but you will NEVER win the war. You may kill us, and you may kill us all, but you will never conquer us. Our hope and spirits will not break, and even you will not be able to take over this land. It was built for the Eldar, the Light of the Elves, not a foul creature such as you. If you do experience victory, it will be short lived, before we return again. We will keep returning, until your evil is thrashed. Not even the spirits of the wood will stand by this time." Legolas voice was soft and firm, but carried through out the forest.
Boromir stared in awe and shock at the sight before him. The vampire Master stood in the midst of black fog, ground zero to the destruction, facing off against the Lady Ellen and Prince Legolas. Both of them were glowing with inner Light, eyes shining with it, and hands clasped. They reminded him of the Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel, when the Fellowship had 'rested' in LothLorien. A star rested at the throat of Ellen. Somewhere in the middle the Light fought against the Dark.
"My friends and I were NOT sent here, Sauron, to fight a losing battle. We were sent here to WIN the battle. And we will do so. You shall not win this battle. So long as my friends and I draw breath, you will not win.That was what we were born to do," she said softly, sad. "We were born to succeed where others failed. To protect those that were weak and ignorant. We never had a chance to say no.it is our destiny.and downfall."
It was like he was witnessing history. Elves would sing stories of this moment. Though he trembled at the eyes of fire, and cursed name, he felt reassurance at the Prince's and Slayer's words. They spoke with a surety, a power that he couldn't help but feel hope well in him. It was much like the hope that Aragorn had brought him, as he lay dying last time he was on this plane.
Sauron formed his sword in his hand. "You think you're so sure, fine. I will make it that YOU will come to me.I will kill the mortal.poison the elf.and recruit the vampire. He has promise."
"Damon won't join you."
He merely raised an eyebrow. "My dear, there are things even HE can not resist. If I must, I will turn him into something that WILL be my servant."
She glared at him. "And what do you want with me?"
"I had thought that, at least, was clear. If you won't come willingly, and I can't tame you.I will make use of you other wise."
Legolas tensed beside her, and she shivered at the suggestive leer sent her way.
He saluted with the hell blade.
Before the first blow could be blocked by Legolas's twin blades, ghostly figures sprang up, circling the Master. Boromir stared in shock, as they attacked Sauron. He turned amazed eyes to Ellen, wondering what was happening.but she was just as clueless as him.staring at Legolas with a gaping mouth. The elf stood, blades ready, watching the Master and spirits with worry.
Ellen was pretty sure she didn't summon the spirit things that saved them from the trouble of a fierce battle. The elf next to her was worrying his bottom lip, eyebrows drawn together.
*Legolas??*
*What?*
*What is going on?*
*The Spirits of the forest are attacking Sauron. They are weakening him.but they are losing strength themselves. Ardeia is guiding them.* (A/N: Ardeia pronounced Ar-day-a.)
*Ardeia?! But! Who called them!? She would not get involved without asking Arneania or one of her other sisters first! Would she?*
The elf looked grim.but oh so cute with that pout. *I think I called them.*
*You think?! What do you mean, you THINK?*
He turned to her, eyes wide and pleading. *I can speak with trees and the spirits of the wood. I have since I was a child. Only a few know, including Herdare. I think they sensed my despair and stepped in.*
Ellen felt like a fish, eyes wide and mouth opening and closing. *O~kay. Another plus. You can speak with nature.not surprising for an elf-*
*But it is!* She was beginning to understand the pleading in those eyes. *I don't know of any other that can do what I can.Except maybe my mother and perhaps the Keepers of the Elven Rings.but Mother has passed on. I used to be ridiculed for even TRYING to tell others. Father wouldn't listen, accusing me of tormenting him with memories of my own mother's insanity.*
*Well.* She kept one eye on the battle, and one eye on Legolas. The battle was like a small hurricane, making their hair whip in every direction.*So, you can talk to trees? So what?! It's a nifty ability, why dis it? It just shows how special you are. If people can't understand it, too bad. It's THEIR problem.* As Legolas searched her mind for references to her slang, she thought.Poor elf. Poor CUTE, sweet elf. Her blush mirrored Legolas's as she realized he heard her. At least HE could smile about it.
*What I don't understand, was how Ardeia got involved? Was it because of you? Or the trees dying?*
If the spirit HAD come because of Legolas, there was more to the elf then met the eye.MUCH more.
At a particular piercing shriek, they both turned their full attention at the pandemonium. It reminded her of Bonnie's description of the fight against Klaus, the first one where she hadn't been present. Sauron was in a tornado of spirits, each clawing and ripping at his being, stripping him of his Power. With a final scream of rage, the spirits went scattering, letting him fall back to earth.
Legolas rubbed his head, wincing.
*You okay?*
*Yeah. The spirits are hurt.badly.*
*Blame it on the vampire, not the compassion they feel towards you.*
*hmm.*
The vampire stood, trembling, looking quite rumpled. Ellen felt a sudden urge to laugh in her hysteria. He looked like a drowned cat or a kid throwing a temper tantrum.
*He does, doesn't he?*
Ellen blushed.
*Ever heard of privacy?! We female Mortals are privy to it!*
The voice was amused. *Last time I checked, my dear, you WEREN'T Mortal.*
The uplifting conversation was ended as the vampire charged them. Ellen felt a moment of fear, before he reached them. She held out her hands, forming a katana. Metal rang out, as the blades kissed each other in greeting. Her body moved as it had been taught to, dancing in katas learned long ago, to intercept the blade of her enemy. As Sauron raised his blade to try and behead her, or knock her out using the flat of the blade, the katana quickly turned into an axe that Gimli would be proud of.
Soon, Sauron was without a left leg, and they were both missing weapons. She was just about to form more, when he beat her. Two tridents flew at her with much force, throwing her to the ground against a tree. There, with two of the blades digging into her skin, the main blades pierced through her tank top and drawstring pants holding her in place. She cried out in pain. Another two joined the first ones, even as Legolas's arrows rained into Sauron's body.
The arrows hissed against the foul creature's body, before turning into ash. Fire once again replaced his missing limb, and the vampire threw another two tridents, fully holding her. Legolas gave up on his arrows. They caused the vampire damage, but it only lasted a second or two.
Before Legolas could reach Sauron, icy tendrils of black mist grasped at his throat, making him drop his blades. He hissed in pain, clawing at the dark that lifted him off the ground. Sauron smirked at Ellen, not even sparing the Princeling a second glance.
"Do you see now, Child, the Power I was offering you? Do you see now, why you can't win? Even weakened as I am, you are no match for me and mine."
He raised a finger. "One last chance." Now he eyed up the struggling elf, and Ellen was strongly reminded of Ares from Xena. Just the stance and arrogance reminded her of the show Ce and Devon would watch with her from time to time. Of course, she had always preferred Joxer.
He looked smug, as his gaze settled back on her, fingers stroking the blond hair of the elf mockingly. "I hear elves can be without breath for a long time.shall we see how long?"
In the corner of her eye, she could see small tendrils of fog coming from the fallen trees, and latch onto the black ones.
"And if he can survive all day and night?" She asked with a raised eyebrow.
He was amused. "Do you really think the Princeling can last THAT long???"
"I have faith in him.He WAS part of the Fellowship." She tried to keep him distracted as the fog centered around Legolas's neck, and pulled gently. Slowly, the inky fingers recoiled.
"Hmm. Yes, I have heard of his prowess. Maybe I should think about-"
He whirled around, rage glowing in his eyes as Legolas fell to the ground and grabbed his blades. Before anyone could blink, Legolas was slammed up against a tree that stood at the edge of ground zero. One of his blades was through Sauron's heart, as the other spilt open the vampire's throat.
"You are TOO much trouble for your worth. Clever little thing you are." It was said as an almost endearment, flames returning his throat to normal, but worked slowly on his chest. He didn't bother with capturing the elf's hands, in stead grasping the throat with one hand, the other buried in golden hair. He looked at his opponent with barely controlled anger.
"I have thought of a fitting punishment for you, fair one."
Legolas glared, unable to say anything. Ellen fought the daggers fiercely, freeing herself from most with a barely contained cry of pain. She grabbed the daggers, and hurried forward. As she threw the first dagger, Sauron leaned forward, and kissed the struggling elf. At least, that's what it looked like at first. As she ran, throwing all the daggers as she went (and then some), she could see that their lips barely touched. Dread crept over her as she witnessed foul oily air being blown to enter between soft lips.
The vampire staggered away, pulling out the daggers, and cursed. Ellen was too occupied with the falling elf to see that the daggers she formed were glowing with Light.
"Legolas? Legolas?!"
Horror crept over her, as she received no response. The elf's eyes were wide, dark, and glazed. It almost looked as if he were sleeping. His skin seemed to be getting pale and clammy.and his breath was nearly silent.
Bright eyes glared at the vampire. "What did you do to him?!"
A weak smirk. "That would be telling. Let's just say, that if he's as strong as you claim, he'll merely turn into a servant. If not." He shrugged. "I won't need to worry about him either way." A cold smile. "Only I can POSSIBLY reverse it. It's all up to you, darling."
Rage and helplessness welled in her, and she directed it on the figure in front of her. Tainted Light escaped her, Light that was never meant to be used this way, and shot through the startled vampire like a lance. He screamed in agony, before darkness was called forth, and he disappeared in it.
She was once again in shock at the show of power, and she could feel the tears rise. They fell so quickly, they reminded Legolas of the rain. She looked at him, startled by his thought.
*Legolas?*
She could feel him on the edge of their linked minds. He was in pain at his very being, being torn apart slowly. He was paralyzed, unable to even speak reassuring words to the girl hovering over him.
Trembling hands cradled Legolas's face, as Boromir was finally able to get to his feet. He felt ill, and believed to have suffered a nasty head injury. He could see a whimpering wolf making it's way to the couple before them. It limped in pain.
Boromir paid him no mind, heart clenching by the scene in front of him. To him, the elf looked dead, and Lady Ellen looked like she was about to faint.
".no." It was a whisper so soft, that only being down wind, could Boromir hear it.
He knelt heavily beside her. "What is it? Is he." He could not finish his sentence, looking into the ailing face of his friend.
"No." It was a sob. "He was poisoned. He's turning into a wraith like creature.if he.if he.doesn't surv-vive.he'll di-ie." Her shoulders started to shake heavily, as she curled herself around the elf. Her last few words making him choke with horror
"Is there nothing we can do?!" He was incredulous that Legolas, one of the strongest of creatures he had ever seen, as well as the fairest, should fall to this fate.
She shook her head, trying to think as her bottled emotions started to get the better of her. "Maybe a healer? I hear that Elrond is the greatest in Middle-Earth, next to Gandalf. Aragorn could help slow it for a while.but I don't."
A shudder swept through Legolas, and his throat convulsed.
"Maybe.Galadriel? Was she a healer? She's a Keeper, maybe she could.but how far is LothLorien?"
Boromir could not stand to see such distress in a maiden, even as odd as she. "It's at least a day and a nights journey, even with the swiftest steed. Can he last that long?"
She closed her eyes, concentrating. "Possibly.but even he can't tell."
Damon sat next to her, nuzzling her arm. He seemed to be bleeding in several places. The wolf form whined.
"There is no open wound, otherwise I would suggest we find Athelas. Or maybe Galagruin.but."
"Didn't Lord Elrond teach you some healing techniques?"
"Yes, but like I said, there IS no open wound, or closed one."
Boromir fought off the pain in his head, and tried to block out the picture before him. Lady Ellen still wore her 'PJs', the silky white 'tank' top and pants almost looking like a dress. Legolas looked like a fallen hero, or angel, his love crying tragically over him. He stared, instead, at her bare feet.
He looked up to make another suggestion, only to find her leaning over the elf, a glint in her eye. He was about to ask her what she was doing, when her lips met those of Legolas's. He turned away, tears burning his eyes.
The two of them only had a moment or two in Rivendell to explore their mated souls, before starting the quest. They weren't even courting, really, having just met. It often happened that way on the battlefield, though, usually with more impassioned results. Ellen and Legolas were not so careless, and had their morals.
And now, the elf laying dying, with perhaps a worse fate hanging over his head, and Ellen was acting-
The wolf growled, and Boromir was pulled from his musing. Legolas was glowing faintly, Ellen still kissing him. He stared in amazement, wondering if she was capable of healing his spirit. It WAS possible Elrond had taught her such techniques, with the greenness of her new Power. But something was wrong. Something wasn't quite right. That was why Damon growled, tugging at Ellen, trying not to hurt her.
Legolas was getting his own elven glow back, his eyes losing that haunted look. But where he gained strength, Ellen failed in it. He stared in horror as he looked at their joined mouths. She still kissed him, but oily black gases were escaping his nostrils, and flowing into hers.and he could only guess it did the same with their mouths.
"Lady Ellen?! Ellen! Do you know what you are doing?"
Legolas lost the glazed over look completely, and started pulling his soul mate.away from him.
"No, stop. Ellen, stop it." His voice was soft, weak.
The plea was too late, as Ellen pitched forward onto Legolas limply.
"What did she do? Tell me she just healed you!"
Legolas looked at the pale girl in his arms. He had screamed at her through their link, pleaded, begged, but she had been determined. She thought that with her new Power, she might be able to fight it off better than him.
She had known of no healing spells that could aid them, and instead, took the poisoned air into her own lungs.
Her long lashes were black against the white skin, bright pink exploded on her cheeks, and she started to sweat from the evil running through her, battling against her power. Violent shudders raked her form, as Legolas cradled her. She whimpered, and he could feel his own tears brimming his eyelashes.
"She took it from me." He was still weak, body trying to gain strength back. "She thought she could destroy it in her body."
"Legolas."
He looked Boromir straight in the eye. "She's taking to it worse than I. If we do not reach LothLorien soon, she will pass on."
He paled at the helplessness in the elf's eyes. "How soon?"
"But a few hours.it is hard to tell."
***************
The Fellowship turned at Herdare's cry. Even as they had hurried to the Golden Wood, he had kept the crystal out, hoping.
"What is it?" One of the Hobbits asked, worried.
Gandalf hurried over on his steed, lightly grasping the pendant. It no longer glowed, but held a crack that ran down the middle. His eyes widened.
"Gandalf?" Aragorn whispered, afraid of the answering reply. Bonnie and Celia gripped each others hands, staring on with worry.
"It has cracked.but-"
"But, WHAT?" Celia shouted. If Legolas was dying, and Ellen was nearby, it would NOT be such a good thing. Already her friend and fellow Slayer had experienced much pain and Death. "What does it mean???"
"Had it broken, it would mean he died.but it hasn't. Merely cracked. It is odd." Gandalf replied, but at Herdare's "Mithrandir!", he turned back.
Worried green eyes questioned him. "Legolas's hair is still in here.but there is a darker one in here as well. It was NOT forged like that."
Gandalf studied it. "You are right. It may be Ellen's. It's the only thing I can think of, since they ARE soul mates.but I've never heard of such a thing. They aren't even bonded or wedded."
Bonnie sent out her mind, searching for Damon, drawing on all the power she held as a Druid. The magical elements in this world made it harder than it would have on Earth, even across short distances.but she was descended from a strong line of Druid priestesses, and the link she searched for was that of her soul mates.
*DAMON.*
*Bonnie?* He sounded lost. NOT a good thing.
*What is happening? Are you with Legolas?*
*Yes. Boromir is here as well. Bonnie, it doesn't look so good.*
Dread clutched her heart. *For who?*
*Ellie girl.*
*Why?*
*That Vampire Master that's been stalking Ellen?*
*Yes?*
*His real name is Sauron.*
Horror rushed through her as she recognized the name. She HAD finally finished the Trilogy Ellen lent her. *But.he was destroyed. Long before we arrived.*
*His Spirit was. But apparently, not his body. He poisoned the elf. Ellen managed to pry it from him, and into her own body.Bonnie?*
She could only mentally nod.
*She's taking it worse than the elf did. I don't know if even SHE can survive this time.*
*What can we do???*
*Pray. Pray that we can reach LothLorien in time.*
"Bonnie? What did he say?"
She threw herself out of the link, and looked at the people surrounding her. All stared at her, knowing that she had spoken to her vampire, not liking the pallor of her skin.
Slowly, she related the new turn of events.
*****************
Galadriel looked up from her place on the dais, sensing the Power struggle leagues away. Celeborn looked at his wife, concern marring his normal mask of calm.
"What is it, gil-baim?"
"We shall have company soon. Aragorn is leading the Fellowship here once more."
He gazed at his wife over the stack of scrolls on the desk, then rose to meet her and walk out on the terrace. "I ask it of you again, what is wrong, nin meleth?"
She glanced at her Ring, the One tying her to the Others, and not her husband. "It is one of the maidens from the other world."
She gazed out over the balcony, watching her people. "She is able to dip into the power, and has done it unconsciously several times. This last time, it was tainted by rage and despair."
Celeborn worried his lower lip, silvery blue eyes looking at approaching Galadhrim. Haldir led them, carrying a rabid captive. "She needs to be trained?" Wondering at his wife's intentions.
"I am not sure if she's ready. But during such times, one is often not. Legolas has displayed another interesting piece as well."
"Arneania told you to watch out for her and her new soul mate. They have yet to bond, or rest. I fear we can not rush them, though the alliance would be fruitful. They are.unwell?"
Galadriel inclined her head. "They will be needing our services. All of them, the Human girl mostly. Her mind is weakened. As well as her spirit... I fear Elrond and Cirdan were right."
"About Elenath?"
Eyes as blue as the sky at twilight met his. "And Legolas. Perhaps we should look into this when they arrive?"
"Yes. It would be best in our interests. Haldir seems to be having trouble."
The Elven Queen smiled at her husbands amusement. They had helped raise Haldir and his brothers, and both couldn't help but tease them as parents would.
"Half his guard has come to aid him. Interesting that he needs such help."
"I do believe that female below is human.from the other world. It's the only explanation. I have never seen such dark skin, except, perhaps, on an orc. Arneania must have sent her."
"I don't know who to be sorry for.Her or Haldir."
Silvery eyes turned to the Queen. "It is possible that if Elrond, Cirdan and Arneania are right, we might win the battle, along with the war.and salvation of our people and this land."
"Yes. Part of me knows it would be well. But another, cries for they, that would save us all."
Celeborn sighed, knowing of what she spoke of. "If the Spirits are getting involved, that bode well. They did not get involved the last time we fought, nor did they interrupt the Kinslaying. Why would they now? It worries my on heart and mind."
"I can not answer that now. Arneania left a gift for her warriors, and asked for me to call upon Arcaya when they arrive. It appears they are not Mortals, as one would think."
She sent out calming thoughts to the new arrival below, and was startled when gold eyes raised to look at her from below. Very perceptive, that one was.
"Most of the representatives have arrived. Thranduil will not be happy about his son's involvement."
"It is sad, the curse that befalls that family." He murmured.
"He has had two wives die, his most beloved one horrifyingly, along with a few of his children. Not to mention many of his people falling into to darkness due to the shadow that hovers over his land. It is no wonder at the grief that poisons his heart.but we can't afford for him to hold his youngest son back. Legolas was meant for great things.whether or not we are right. I only hope the shadow covering his eyes will be lifted ere something tragic happens. He is so much like his mother."
"Legolas."
"Yes. I wonder if he can remember that night.That the trees protected him so should be testament enough to our musings."
"As I remember, only you were able to find him, and coax the trees to let him go."
She gazed sadly at the forest. "Such a sweet child."
"Yes. He always loved to play with Haldir, Orophin and Rumil when he was little. They were the only ones with enough energy to teach him the ways of the Wood after his Mother past, and keep him occupied."
A smile graced both their faces at the memories that sentence invoked.
They both waited in silence as the guards marched up the stairs. It was as Haldir reached them to announce their arrival when she put a hand to her mouth.
"Oh, dear."
Both her husband and most trusted guard turned to her. "I fear we will need to meet Legolas sooner than we thought, husband."
A/N: gil-baim means lovely star and nin meleth means my love. I have edited this CH at least five times, and refuse to do so anymore. =_='
Does anyone know if it's Oropher or Orophin?? I'm pretty sure Haldir's brother is Orophin.
FF.Net has been VERY kinky lately. Just a warning to newbies of the story, that I may have problems uploading. You might want to join the updates list. Feel free to chat there, or download your own stuff. Celtic Dreamer has been making wallpapers for me. o^_^o
As I said before, I'm losing interest in Moon Rune. If you want to help me finish it, please leave a review at LEAST telling me if you like it. If you have more time, PLEASE tell me WHY you like it, or if there's ANYTHING that should be changed or worked on. It would be MUCH appreciated, and I would love you forever.
Also, as I've told the list, this should turn into a mini series. Moon Rune, Sun Rune and Star Rune with places for cannons in between. Sun Rune and Star Rune SHOULD be much shorter than Moon Rune. Sun Rune should have below ten chapters.
The next chapter of Hybrid Lies is in the making, though I AM having writer's block. *pouts* I am really very ashamed of how that story's turning out.
Other stories like Full Moon Rising (that one will be a LONG while in the making, might even pull it), and Away and Near (WILL work on it, just need TIME and motivation) will be put on the back burner.
Other stories I've sent through the list may be worked on, though, due to the fact that they are new and fresh ideas.
I think that covers it for now. I hardly have any room on my computer.though I'm TRYING to work on my kitties. Personally? I think my new Legolas kitty is cute. ^_^ Not the best, but his widdle face is SO kawaii! Hee, hee. It's the eyebrows, I think. The Ellen and Legolas kitty couple is in the making, but they aren't coming out too well.
I've been doodling a LOT of characters for my stories but sadly (sorry CD), not too many scenes from the fics. It is SO hard to draw a male's body and face, never mind positions.and then the backgrounds??? I NEED to go back to school, at least for an art class. Hey CD? Is your friend at UNLV into LOTR and HP???
The Mailing List Address: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/GNsCafe?yguid=131309607
A/N: Thanks to Celtic Dreamer (or Chibi_Galaxia, whatever her name is right now), for inspiring me about new characters, and for sticking with the story these MANY unproductive months.
Also, thanks to Crawler aka Fatismal_Spider. She gave me a link to a Sindarin dictionary, which I have used for this chapter. Though, it is VERY limited. Anyone know of any other elven dictionaries??? I'm desperate!
My thanks to Tofu, who left a LONG and thoughtful review. Your review helped me think of a way to save this chapter, and 'certain' relationships. *winks* But I do warn you guys.I am losing interest in this story.I DO hope to finish it, though.
Warning: Unless I get enough reviews pleading otherwise, this is no longer a Celia/Frodo romance. I don't know WHY I did it in the first place.
*telepathy or soulmates talking* **Galad-nor speaking** 'Elvish' "Common"
Spirits so far: Arneania: Spirit Of Light and Guidance. Afaeria: Spirit Of Lost Souls and Keeper of the Dead Ardeia: Spirit Of the Wood and Creatures Within Arcaya: Spirit of Founding, Relics and History
Whoa, this is a LONG chapter.
Chapter 17
The remaining members of the Fellowship halted and turned around in surprise as a great glowing erupted from Herdare's tunic. With trembling fingers, he drew out the charm that linked to Legolas. The charm glowed brightly, like a small shining star. Pale, the elf turned to Gandalf and Aragorn. The man eyed it warily. "Herdare, what does that mean???" Aragorn feared he knew the answer. "Legolas.his life.it will be taken from him.in a matter of moments." "What!!??" Aragorn looked at the Hobbits, who looked ready to faint. "Is there anything we can do?!?" Herdare looked at Frodo, warmed at the determination and worry on the Hobbit's face. "No.I am afraid not, Little one. We can only hope that Boromir can help, or that Ellen has reached him."
*********
Ellen turned in horror, her already fair skin paling. Legolas felt protective of her, as he felt walls slipping away in her mind. He sent warm thoughts through their connection, trying to soothe her mind, and readied for battle. Boromir looked at them, wondering what was going on (poor human), and Damon looked at Ellen in worry. The girl tended to have melt downs after holding emotions and events in for too long. Usually, it was due to the stress of school, being a Slayer, Family problems or a combination of all of them. And they seemed to happen at the worst times, the last one by the river in Rivendell being an exception. He shook his head, as the sly vampire closed in on them. They could NOT afford to lose Ellen at a time like this. He turned to Boromir. "A vampire Master is headed this way. Prepare for battle." The human nodded, taking up his sword. Damon turned to Ellen. "Ellen?" Wide eyes turned to him. "W-What?" Her mouth had gone dry. "If we're going to survive this, you need to calm down. He'll be here within the minute." *This is one you CAN'T save, Ellie.* Ellen closed her eyes at his touch, as he hugged her. She was beginning to shake, even as he pulled away; but was able to steady her bow thanks to Legolas's soothing mind send. Forcing down her emotions, and putting on a mask, she faced east. She could feel a shadow enter her mind through Legolas, seconds before the unnamed vampire crashed through the trees. After a quick nudge from Damon, an arrow was loosed. The vampire was startled at this attack, but managed to catch it. He snapped it in half with his fingers, sending her a smirk. There was pure ice in those eyes. *You try to harm me?* The voice was cold and sneering. Her heart pounded, and she suddenly felt cold. Hate radiated toward them, putting a chink in her mask. She was scant seconds away from a melt down, and as she watched the vampire smile broadly, she realized he knew it, too. He swung off of the fiery beast, so much like Galad-nor had been like. Fingers shaking, Ellen fired another arrow. This time, the vampire let it just sink into his chest. Her aim was off, hitting him just to the right of the heart. He smiled, as the arrow suddenly burst into flames. As it disappeared, similar flames erupted in his eyes, as he stalked closer. Boromir moved in front of Ellen and Damon, sensing the girl's distress. The vampire formed a blade of fire in his hands, deflecting a blow from the human. Boromir went flying.right into the trunk of a tree. He lay there, dazed. Ellen took a deep breath. "That was.new." The sword disappeared as he continued forward. Damon was not sure what the vampire wanted, but clearly, it was not good. He took up the elven sword from his waist, and held it in front of him. The Master eyed him as you would a bug. He reformed his sword, before leaping into action.
Damon turned away from the blow, before attacking the vampire with his own sword. Ellen could barely follow the many sword parries and thrusts and blows. The Master now held a smile upon his face, fangs lowered, amused. It was like a dance. A very, VERY fast paced dance. Both being vampire Masters, they were almost evenly matched.until the fiery blade got past Damon's defenses, and nearly gutted him. The Master was looking at Ellen as he sent his blade flying, towards Damon's neck.
Ellen closed her eyes tightly, tears burning the back of her eyes, her mind screaming. At Legolas's gasp of wonder, she opened them. Damon's blade was up, stabbing the vampire through the throat. The Master's blade was not even a millimeter away from Damon's throat. A single thread of light kept it there, extinguishing the flames where they touched. As Ellen watched in awe, it started to disappear.
Wide eyed, she tried yanking at it with her mind, and it came back to wrap around the hell blade. Screw it all. She had been the one to form the light that protected Damon's throat. And she hadn't even done it consciously. Damon stared wide eyed at Ellen, before looking back at the Master. The Master managed to pull the sword from his throat, gagging on his blood, before he erupted.into flame.
The dancing fingers encircled the skin of his throat, healing everything it touched. Ellen blinked, and the next thing she knew, Damon was flying. He disappeared somewhere in the trees. She took a step back as the Master turned to leer at her disdainfully. She swallowed hard, as he began to speak.
"I see that you have partially Mastered the Light. It serves you now."
Ellen took another step back, as he continued forward. Bile was raising in the back of her throat, as her stomach became quite ill. It seemed she had gotten over her 'attraction' to him. Now, it was quite the opposite.
"You are no match for me, child."
*Ellen?* The elf was worried.
Her mind raced. He called her a child.but all of the vampires in Middle- Earth were new.right? It didn't make sense. There was an ancient evil about him. And those eyes.where had she seen them before?? Crimson turning into flame during battle. No, wait a minute.
She sent out her mind to Legolas's, as HE continued talking. Soothing tendrils met her there, even though Legolas himself was getting worried.
"Did you truly think you could defeat me? When you don't even know who I am?"
Ellen shifted through her soul mates memories, searching, dread eating at her heart. Finally, she came upon it.the fight for Middle-Earth. Mordor, where Legolas, Gimli, Gandalf, and Aragorn led men against the forces of Sauron.
Legolas was fighting orc after orc, until he heard the screech, and looked up. There, beyond the black gates, near the tower with the One eye looking down on them, the Nazgul flew on steed like dragons.
"It's like I said before, Maiden. I would hate to see such beauty and Power go to waste. Join me.or die here and now for my own uses. And trust me, it won't be a pleasant death."
The tower, tall and dark. At the top of it, the Eye. Wreathed in flame.fire.
Feeling sick, Ellen looked into the Vampire's eyes, knowing what she'd find there. She could feel Legolas stiffen in dread as she did so, reading her frenzied thoughts. She heard him drop his bow, then the shick of his blades being drawn.
"Sauron." It was a broken whisper, spoken by both.
The Vampire smiled, obviously pleased. "For a minute, I was worried I had misjudged you both." And with that, he dropped his guise. The wet blanket that had covered his mind fell, and darkness erupted. Shadows searched and destroyed as they expanded from his form. Trees fell and blackened, and grass seemingly disappeared to be replaced by dirt.
Ellen felt it surround her, and suffocate her. She stepped back into Legolas, who was bent over, trying to block out the dying tree's screams. She covered one of his armed hands with her own, trying to draw strength from their linking souls. It helped, a little. But she was still gagging, feeling sick. Legolas was more successful, and raised his blades in defense, stepping in front of Ellen.
"What is your answer, Maiden? Clearly you will not win in any fight against me. Both the elves AND men weren't able to defeat me. What makes you think you will?"
Cold settled on her mind and all over her, but as she fought to stay connected with the fair elf beside her, a blazing warmth spread from her throat. It was the gift Arneania gave her. The moonstone on the delicate chain glowed with Light.
Sauron was glaring at the pendant that he had not seen until now. Trembling fingers touched the medallion, and instantly stilled and became warm. She focused on it, and the heat spread through her and into Legolas. The shaking stopped, and she was able to calm her mind. Beside her, Legolas had relaxed. She raised bright eyes to the Vampire in front of her.
"I don't think we will win."
The vampire gave her an odd look.as if he wasn't sure to be alarmed or happy by this turn of events.
She lifted her chin, and looked him squarely in the eyes. "I KNOW we will win. You know why?"
He glared at her, trying to figure out the origin of the stone, and where she had gotten it. It did not glow with ordinary light. It glowed with the Light of the stars and moon. It glowed with the Light that had once graced the Valar, and still graced the Spirits of the other world. Was it possible, that the Spirits were getting involved? They had not before, so why would they do so now? If they did, he might not win this time.
"I am a Slayer from another world, and so are my friends. We travel with the former Fellowship who won the last battle for Middle-Earth, and defeated you once. This time, not only will the Men and Elves join the fight, but every creature that walks this world. I have already vowed that the Power of the Elves will be restored, and it will be."
"Even with the Light of the Spirits you will not be able to defeat me, child. I am almost as old as the race of the elves itself. I am no longer Mortal in any sense. I am no mere Vampire from your world, or other worlds. I can not be simply slayed, because I can not be destroyed."
"Yes, but you are no longer a potent spirit. You are grounded to earth, and have needs to stay strong. The trees whisper.they say you can be defeated." The vampire raised an eyebrow at the elf, amused at his confession.
"Damn the elves and your daft past times. I always knew you were missing a nut or two."
Legolas shifted beside her, sliding his dagger into its' sheath, before holding her hand. He stood tall and proud as any Prince, meeting the Dark Lords eyes as well. "You are wrong to think you are indestructible. Nothing has that power. I have aided to defeat you once, and I will do it again. This time, we will ALL make sure you don't return. You can not win. You are one creature: dead, alive or undead. And we are many. Even as strong as you are, you can not face us all and expect victory."
Sauron's lip curled. "I doubt it. You will die, elf. You will all die. I will take pleasure in it. And I will win. Again."
Unknown to them, Boromir was awake and leaning against a blackened fallen tree.
"You may win the battles, but you will NEVER win the war. You may kill us, and you may kill us all, but you will never conquer us. Our hope and spirits will not break, and even you will not be able to take over this land. It was built for the Eldar, the Light of the Elves, not a foul creature such as you. If you do experience victory, it will be short lived, before we return again. We will keep returning, until your evil is thrashed. Not even the spirits of the wood will stand by this time." Legolas voice was soft and firm, but carried through out the forest.
Boromir stared in awe and shock at the sight before him. The vampire Master stood in the midst of black fog, ground zero to the destruction, facing off against the Lady Ellen and Prince Legolas. Both of them were glowing with inner Light, eyes shining with it, and hands clasped. They reminded him of the Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel, when the Fellowship had 'rested' in LothLorien. A star rested at the throat of Ellen. Somewhere in the middle the Light fought against the Dark.
"My friends and I were NOT sent here, Sauron, to fight a losing battle. We were sent here to WIN the battle. And we will do so. You shall not win this battle. So long as my friends and I draw breath, you will not win.That was what we were born to do," she said softly, sad. "We were born to succeed where others failed. To protect those that were weak and ignorant. We never had a chance to say no.it is our destiny.and downfall."
It was like he was witnessing history. Elves would sing stories of this moment. Though he trembled at the eyes of fire, and cursed name, he felt reassurance at the Prince's and Slayer's words. They spoke with a surety, a power that he couldn't help but feel hope well in him. It was much like the hope that Aragorn had brought him, as he lay dying last time he was on this plane.
Sauron formed his sword in his hand. "You think you're so sure, fine. I will make it that YOU will come to me.I will kill the mortal.poison the elf.and recruit the vampire. He has promise."
"Damon won't join you."
He merely raised an eyebrow. "My dear, there are things even HE can not resist. If I must, I will turn him into something that WILL be my servant."
She glared at him. "And what do you want with me?"
"I had thought that, at least, was clear. If you won't come willingly, and I can't tame you.I will make use of you other wise."
Legolas tensed beside her, and she shivered at the suggestive leer sent her way.
He saluted with the hell blade.
Before the first blow could be blocked by Legolas's twin blades, ghostly figures sprang up, circling the Master. Boromir stared in shock, as they attacked Sauron. He turned amazed eyes to Ellen, wondering what was happening.but she was just as clueless as him.staring at Legolas with a gaping mouth. The elf stood, blades ready, watching the Master and spirits with worry.
Ellen was pretty sure she didn't summon the spirit things that saved them from the trouble of a fierce battle. The elf next to her was worrying his bottom lip, eyebrows drawn together.
*Legolas??*
*What?*
*What is going on?*
*The Spirits of the forest are attacking Sauron. They are weakening him.but they are losing strength themselves. Ardeia is guiding them.* (A/N: Ardeia pronounced Ar-day-a.)
*Ardeia?! But! Who called them!? She would not get involved without asking Arneania or one of her other sisters first! Would she?*
The elf looked grim.but oh so cute with that pout. *I think I called them.*
*You think?! What do you mean, you THINK?*
He turned to her, eyes wide and pleading. *I can speak with trees and the spirits of the wood. I have since I was a child. Only a few know, including Herdare. I think they sensed my despair and stepped in.*
Ellen felt like a fish, eyes wide and mouth opening and closing. *O~kay. Another plus. You can speak with nature.not surprising for an elf-*
*But it is!* She was beginning to understand the pleading in those eyes. *I don't know of any other that can do what I can.Except maybe my mother and perhaps the Keepers of the Elven Rings.but Mother has passed on. I used to be ridiculed for even TRYING to tell others. Father wouldn't listen, accusing me of tormenting him with memories of my own mother's insanity.*
*Well.* She kept one eye on the battle, and one eye on Legolas. The battle was like a small hurricane, making their hair whip in every direction.*So, you can talk to trees? So what?! It's a nifty ability, why dis it? It just shows how special you are. If people can't understand it, too bad. It's THEIR problem.* As Legolas searched her mind for references to her slang, she thought.Poor elf. Poor CUTE, sweet elf. Her blush mirrored Legolas's as she realized he heard her. At least HE could smile about it.
*What I don't understand, was how Ardeia got involved? Was it because of you? Or the trees dying?*
If the spirit HAD come because of Legolas, there was more to the elf then met the eye.MUCH more.
At a particular piercing shriek, they both turned their full attention at the pandemonium. It reminded her of Bonnie's description of the fight against Klaus, the first one where she hadn't been present. Sauron was in a tornado of spirits, each clawing and ripping at his being, stripping him of his Power. With a final scream of rage, the spirits went scattering, letting him fall back to earth.
Legolas rubbed his head, wincing.
*You okay?*
*Yeah. The spirits are hurt.badly.*
*Blame it on the vampire, not the compassion they feel towards you.*
*hmm.*
The vampire stood, trembling, looking quite rumpled. Ellen felt a sudden urge to laugh in her hysteria. He looked like a drowned cat or a kid throwing a temper tantrum.
*He does, doesn't he?*
Ellen blushed.
*Ever heard of privacy?! We female Mortals are privy to it!*
The voice was amused. *Last time I checked, my dear, you WEREN'T Mortal.*
The uplifting conversation was ended as the vampire charged them. Ellen felt a moment of fear, before he reached them. She held out her hands, forming a katana. Metal rang out, as the blades kissed each other in greeting. Her body moved as it had been taught to, dancing in katas learned long ago, to intercept the blade of her enemy. As Sauron raised his blade to try and behead her, or knock her out using the flat of the blade, the katana quickly turned into an axe that Gimli would be proud of.
Soon, Sauron was without a left leg, and they were both missing weapons. She was just about to form more, when he beat her. Two tridents flew at her with much force, throwing her to the ground against a tree. There, with two of the blades digging into her skin, the main blades pierced through her tank top and drawstring pants holding her in place. She cried out in pain. Another two joined the first ones, even as Legolas's arrows rained into Sauron's body.
The arrows hissed against the foul creature's body, before turning into ash. Fire once again replaced his missing limb, and the vampire threw another two tridents, fully holding her. Legolas gave up on his arrows. They caused the vampire damage, but it only lasted a second or two.
Before Legolas could reach Sauron, icy tendrils of black mist grasped at his throat, making him drop his blades. He hissed in pain, clawing at the dark that lifted him off the ground. Sauron smirked at Ellen, not even sparing the Princeling a second glance.
"Do you see now, Child, the Power I was offering you? Do you see now, why you can't win? Even weakened as I am, you are no match for me and mine."
He raised a finger. "One last chance." Now he eyed up the struggling elf, and Ellen was strongly reminded of Ares from Xena. Just the stance and arrogance reminded her of the show Ce and Devon would watch with her from time to time. Of course, she had always preferred Joxer.
He looked smug, as his gaze settled back on her, fingers stroking the blond hair of the elf mockingly. "I hear elves can be without breath for a long time.shall we see how long?"
In the corner of her eye, she could see small tendrils of fog coming from the fallen trees, and latch onto the black ones.
"And if he can survive all day and night?" She asked with a raised eyebrow.
He was amused. "Do you really think the Princeling can last THAT long???"
"I have faith in him.He WAS part of the Fellowship." She tried to keep him distracted as the fog centered around Legolas's neck, and pulled gently. Slowly, the inky fingers recoiled.
"Hmm. Yes, I have heard of his prowess. Maybe I should think about-"
He whirled around, rage glowing in his eyes as Legolas fell to the ground and grabbed his blades. Before anyone could blink, Legolas was slammed up against a tree that stood at the edge of ground zero. One of his blades was through Sauron's heart, as the other spilt open the vampire's throat.
"You are TOO much trouble for your worth. Clever little thing you are." It was said as an almost endearment, flames returning his throat to normal, but worked slowly on his chest. He didn't bother with capturing the elf's hands, in stead grasping the throat with one hand, the other buried in golden hair. He looked at his opponent with barely controlled anger.
"I have thought of a fitting punishment for you, fair one."
Legolas glared, unable to say anything. Ellen fought the daggers fiercely, freeing herself from most with a barely contained cry of pain. She grabbed the daggers, and hurried forward. As she threw the first dagger, Sauron leaned forward, and kissed the struggling elf. At least, that's what it looked like at first. As she ran, throwing all the daggers as she went (and then some), she could see that their lips barely touched. Dread crept over her as she witnessed foul oily air being blown to enter between soft lips.
The vampire staggered away, pulling out the daggers, and cursed. Ellen was too occupied with the falling elf to see that the daggers she formed were glowing with Light.
"Legolas? Legolas?!"
Horror crept over her, as she received no response. The elf's eyes were wide, dark, and glazed. It almost looked as if he were sleeping. His skin seemed to be getting pale and clammy.and his breath was nearly silent.
Bright eyes glared at the vampire. "What did you do to him?!"
A weak smirk. "That would be telling. Let's just say, that if he's as strong as you claim, he'll merely turn into a servant. If not." He shrugged. "I won't need to worry about him either way." A cold smile. "Only I can POSSIBLY reverse it. It's all up to you, darling."
Rage and helplessness welled in her, and she directed it on the figure in front of her. Tainted Light escaped her, Light that was never meant to be used this way, and shot through the startled vampire like a lance. He screamed in agony, before darkness was called forth, and he disappeared in it.
She was once again in shock at the show of power, and she could feel the tears rise. They fell so quickly, they reminded Legolas of the rain. She looked at him, startled by his thought.
*Legolas?*
She could feel him on the edge of their linked minds. He was in pain at his very being, being torn apart slowly. He was paralyzed, unable to even speak reassuring words to the girl hovering over him.
Trembling hands cradled Legolas's face, as Boromir was finally able to get to his feet. He felt ill, and believed to have suffered a nasty head injury. He could see a whimpering wolf making it's way to the couple before them. It limped in pain.
Boromir paid him no mind, heart clenching by the scene in front of him. To him, the elf looked dead, and Lady Ellen looked like she was about to faint.
".no." It was a whisper so soft, that only being down wind, could Boromir hear it.
He knelt heavily beside her. "What is it? Is he." He could not finish his sentence, looking into the ailing face of his friend.
"No." It was a sob. "He was poisoned. He's turning into a wraith like creature.if he.if he.doesn't surv-vive.he'll di-ie." Her shoulders started to shake heavily, as she curled herself around the elf. Her last few words making him choke with horror
"Is there nothing we can do?!" He was incredulous that Legolas, one of the strongest of creatures he had ever seen, as well as the fairest, should fall to this fate.
She shook her head, trying to think as her bottled emotions started to get the better of her. "Maybe a healer? I hear that Elrond is the greatest in Middle-Earth, next to Gandalf. Aragorn could help slow it for a while.but I don't."
A shudder swept through Legolas, and his throat convulsed.
"Maybe.Galadriel? Was she a healer? She's a Keeper, maybe she could.but how far is LothLorien?"
Boromir could not stand to see such distress in a maiden, even as odd as she. "It's at least a day and a nights journey, even with the swiftest steed. Can he last that long?"
She closed her eyes, concentrating. "Possibly.but even he can't tell."
Damon sat next to her, nuzzling her arm. He seemed to be bleeding in several places. The wolf form whined.
"There is no open wound, otherwise I would suggest we find Athelas. Or maybe Galagruin.but."
"Didn't Lord Elrond teach you some healing techniques?"
"Yes, but like I said, there IS no open wound, or closed one."
Boromir fought off the pain in his head, and tried to block out the picture before him. Lady Ellen still wore her 'PJs', the silky white 'tank' top and pants almost looking like a dress. Legolas looked like a fallen hero, or angel, his love crying tragically over him. He stared, instead, at her bare feet.
He looked up to make another suggestion, only to find her leaning over the elf, a glint in her eye. He was about to ask her what she was doing, when her lips met those of Legolas's. He turned away, tears burning his eyes.
The two of them only had a moment or two in Rivendell to explore their mated souls, before starting the quest. They weren't even courting, really, having just met. It often happened that way on the battlefield, though, usually with more impassioned results. Ellen and Legolas were not so careless, and had their morals.
And now, the elf laying dying, with perhaps a worse fate hanging over his head, and Ellen was acting-
The wolf growled, and Boromir was pulled from his musing. Legolas was glowing faintly, Ellen still kissing him. He stared in amazement, wondering if she was capable of healing his spirit. It WAS possible Elrond had taught her such techniques, with the greenness of her new Power. But something was wrong. Something wasn't quite right. That was why Damon growled, tugging at Ellen, trying not to hurt her.
Legolas was getting his own elven glow back, his eyes losing that haunted look. But where he gained strength, Ellen failed in it. He stared in horror as he looked at their joined mouths. She still kissed him, but oily black gases were escaping his nostrils, and flowing into hers.and he could only guess it did the same with their mouths.
"Lady Ellen?! Ellen! Do you know what you are doing?"
Legolas lost the glazed over look completely, and started pulling his soul mate.away from him.
"No, stop. Ellen, stop it." His voice was soft, weak.
The plea was too late, as Ellen pitched forward onto Legolas limply.
"What did she do? Tell me she just healed you!"
Legolas looked at the pale girl in his arms. He had screamed at her through their link, pleaded, begged, but she had been determined. She thought that with her new Power, she might be able to fight it off better than him.
She had known of no healing spells that could aid them, and instead, took the poisoned air into her own lungs.
Her long lashes were black against the white skin, bright pink exploded on her cheeks, and she started to sweat from the evil running through her, battling against her power. Violent shudders raked her form, as Legolas cradled her. She whimpered, and he could feel his own tears brimming his eyelashes.
"She took it from me." He was still weak, body trying to gain strength back. "She thought she could destroy it in her body."
"Legolas."
He looked Boromir straight in the eye. "She's taking to it worse than I. If we do not reach LothLorien soon, she will pass on."
He paled at the helplessness in the elf's eyes. "How soon?"
"But a few hours.it is hard to tell."
***************
The Fellowship turned at Herdare's cry. Even as they had hurried to the Golden Wood, he had kept the crystal out, hoping.
"What is it?" One of the Hobbits asked, worried.
Gandalf hurried over on his steed, lightly grasping the pendant. It no longer glowed, but held a crack that ran down the middle. His eyes widened.
"Gandalf?" Aragorn whispered, afraid of the answering reply. Bonnie and Celia gripped each others hands, staring on with worry.
"It has cracked.but-"
"But, WHAT?" Celia shouted. If Legolas was dying, and Ellen was nearby, it would NOT be such a good thing. Already her friend and fellow Slayer had experienced much pain and Death. "What does it mean???"
"Had it broken, it would mean he died.but it hasn't. Merely cracked. It is odd." Gandalf replied, but at Herdare's "Mithrandir!", he turned back.
Worried green eyes questioned him. "Legolas's hair is still in here.but there is a darker one in here as well. It was NOT forged like that."
Gandalf studied it. "You are right. It may be Ellen's. It's the only thing I can think of, since they ARE soul mates.but I've never heard of such a thing. They aren't even bonded or wedded."
Bonnie sent out her mind, searching for Damon, drawing on all the power she held as a Druid. The magical elements in this world made it harder than it would have on Earth, even across short distances.but she was descended from a strong line of Druid priestesses, and the link she searched for was that of her soul mates.
*DAMON.*
*Bonnie?* He sounded lost. NOT a good thing.
*What is happening? Are you with Legolas?*
*Yes. Boromir is here as well. Bonnie, it doesn't look so good.*
Dread clutched her heart. *For who?*
*Ellie girl.*
*Why?*
*That Vampire Master that's been stalking Ellen?*
*Yes?*
*His real name is Sauron.*
Horror rushed through her as she recognized the name. She HAD finally finished the Trilogy Ellen lent her. *But.he was destroyed. Long before we arrived.*
*His Spirit was. But apparently, not his body. He poisoned the elf. Ellen managed to pry it from him, and into her own body.Bonnie?*
She could only mentally nod.
*She's taking it worse than the elf did. I don't know if even SHE can survive this time.*
*What can we do???*
*Pray. Pray that we can reach LothLorien in time.*
"Bonnie? What did he say?"
She threw herself out of the link, and looked at the people surrounding her. All stared at her, knowing that she had spoken to her vampire, not liking the pallor of her skin.
Slowly, she related the new turn of events.
*****************
Galadriel looked up from her place on the dais, sensing the Power struggle leagues away. Celeborn looked at his wife, concern marring his normal mask of calm.
"What is it, gil-baim?"
"We shall have company soon. Aragorn is leading the Fellowship here once more."
He gazed at his wife over the stack of scrolls on the desk, then rose to meet her and walk out on the terrace. "I ask it of you again, what is wrong, nin meleth?"
She glanced at her Ring, the One tying her to the Others, and not her husband. "It is one of the maidens from the other world."
She gazed out over the balcony, watching her people. "She is able to dip into the power, and has done it unconsciously several times. This last time, it was tainted by rage and despair."
Celeborn worried his lower lip, silvery blue eyes looking at approaching Galadhrim. Haldir led them, carrying a rabid captive. "She needs to be trained?" Wondering at his wife's intentions.
"I am not sure if she's ready. But during such times, one is often not. Legolas has displayed another interesting piece as well."
"Arneania told you to watch out for her and her new soul mate. They have yet to bond, or rest. I fear we can not rush them, though the alliance would be fruitful. They are.unwell?"
Galadriel inclined her head. "They will be needing our services. All of them, the Human girl mostly. Her mind is weakened. As well as her spirit... I fear Elrond and Cirdan were right."
"About Elenath?"
Eyes as blue as the sky at twilight met his. "And Legolas. Perhaps we should look into this when they arrive?"
"Yes. It would be best in our interests. Haldir seems to be having trouble."
The Elven Queen smiled at her husbands amusement. They had helped raise Haldir and his brothers, and both couldn't help but tease them as parents would.
"Half his guard has come to aid him. Interesting that he needs such help."
"I do believe that female below is human.from the other world. It's the only explanation. I have never seen such dark skin, except, perhaps, on an orc. Arneania must have sent her."
"I don't know who to be sorry for.Her or Haldir."
Silvery eyes turned to the Queen. "It is possible that if Elrond, Cirdan and Arneania are right, we might win the battle, along with the war.and salvation of our people and this land."
"Yes. Part of me knows it would be well. But another, cries for they, that would save us all."
Celeborn sighed, knowing of what she spoke of. "If the Spirits are getting involved, that bode well. They did not get involved the last time we fought, nor did they interrupt the Kinslaying. Why would they now? It worries my on heart and mind."
"I can not answer that now. Arneania left a gift for her warriors, and asked for me to call upon Arcaya when they arrive. It appears they are not Mortals, as one would think."
She sent out calming thoughts to the new arrival below, and was startled when gold eyes raised to look at her from below. Very perceptive, that one was.
"Most of the representatives have arrived. Thranduil will not be happy about his son's involvement."
"It is sad, the curse that befalls that family." He murmured.
"He has had two wives die, his most beloved one horrifyingly, along with a few of his children. Not to mention many of his people falling into to darkness due to the shadow that hovers over his land. It is no wonder at the grief that poisons his heart.but we can't afford for him to hold his youngest son back. Legolas was meant for great things.whether or not we are right. I only hope the shadow covering his eyes will be lifted ere something tragic happens. He is so much like his mother."
"Legolas."
"Yes. I wonder if he can remember that night.That the trees protected him so should be testament enough to our musings."
"As I remember, only you were able to find him, and coax the trees to let him go."
She gazed sadly at the forest. "Such a sweet child."
"Yes. He always loved to play with Haldir, Orophin and Rumil when he was little. They were the only ones with enough energy to teach him the ways of the Wood after his Mother past, and keep him occupied."
A smile graced both their faces at the memories that sentence invoked.
They both waited in silence as the guards marched up the stairs. It was as Haldir reached them to announce their arrival when she put a hand to her mouth.
"Oh, dear."
Both her husband and most trusted guard turned to her. "I fear we will need to meet Legolas sooner than we thought, husband."
A/N: gil-baim means lovely star and nin meleth means my love. I have edited this CH at least five times, and refuse to do so anymore. =_='
Does anyone know if it's Oropher or Orophin?? I'm pretty sure Haldir's brother is Orophin.
FF.Net has been VERY kinky lately. Just a warning to newbies of the story, that I may have problems uploading. You might want to join the updates list. Feel free to chat there, or download your own stuff. Celtic Dreamer has been making wallpapers for me. o^_^o
As I said before, I'm losing interest in Moon Rune. If you want to help me finish it, please leave a review at LEAST telling me if you like it. If you have more time, PLEASE tell me WHY you like it, or if there's ANYTHING that should be changed or worked on. It would be MUCH appreciated, and I would love you forever.
Also, as I've told the list, this should turn into a mini series. Moon Rune, Sun Rune and Star Rune with places for cannons in between. Sun Rune and Star Rune SHOULD be much shorter than Moon Rune. Sun Rune should have below ten chapters.
The next chapter of Hybrid Lies is in the making, though I AM having writer's block. *pouts* I am really very ashamed of how that story's turning out.
Other stories like Full Moon Rising (that one will be a LONG while in the making, might even pull it), and Away and Near (WILL work on it, just need TIME and motivation) will be put on the back burner.
Other stories I've sent through the list may be worked on, though, due to the fact that they are new and fresh ideas.
I think that covers it for now. I hardly have any room on my computer.though I'm TRYING to work on my kitties. Personally? I think my new Legolas kitty is cute. ^_^ Not the best, but his widdle face is SO kawaii! Hee, hee. It's the eyebrows, I think. The Ellen and Legolas kitty couple is in the making, but they aren't coming out too well.
I've been doodling a LOT of characters for my stories but sadly (sorry CD), not too many scenes from the fics. It is SO hard to draw a male's body and face, never mind positions.and then the backgrounds??? I NEED to go back to school, at least for an art class. Hey CD? Is your friend at UNLV into LOTR and HP???