Oh man, I am so exhausted. It's almost seven, New Year's Eve, and I'm tired! Arg, that can't be good. :pouts: I wanna watch the big, sparkly gum ball drop!

And I just did! Huzzah! Yup, five hours later and this is all that I've done. Ehehe, I love my short atte- Hey! A bug! Bzzzzzzt!

Oh, and I don't think I need to say this, but concerning the title of this chapter…'foxy' is used in the sense of the actual ANIMAL. Not…other things…so get your mind out of the gutter, people! But I am sure you are all mature enough to handle that. :)

XXXXX

Chapter 39- Sheepish Muruien and Foxy Ellyth

The hall was richly adorned in many golds and silvers, and tapestries of different creatures hanging from the wall. Statues of the same animals were lined up by the wall and the company wondered what significance these creatures held for the Muruien people. The room was lit brightly by the sunlight that filtered in through huge windows. The silver floors were polished so that as the companions passed over, they could see their own reflections.

And what an unpleasant sight it was to look upon themselves.

Sure, they had cleaned themselves when opportunity let them but only so much could be done in the wilderness. Even the elves, much to their horror, did not escape the grime that they were normally so careful about avoiding. Estel held back a snicker when he saw his foster brothers' appalled faces.

Nobles looked up from their business to watch as their princes and his companions trail into the room. They bowed their heads to them as Ricamros and Tarmikos caught their gazes and they both smiled, returning it with their own. The lords and ladies then turned their curious stares upon the travel worn group. And, much to the Noldor twins' amusement, they groaned when they caught sight of the identical elves, muttering about how one set of twins was bad enough.

The two Muruien princes continued to guide them through the winding halls of their home. The sound of the rushing waterfall they saw outside became steadily closer and they finally came upon the bridge that crossed behind it. Gasps of awe escaped some of their lips as they gazed around them, transfixed that the people were able to construct such a thing.

"It is so much like home." Melyanna whispered to her two siblings that walked beside her. They could only nod in agreement.

They passed through a large door that was encrusted with gold designs. Light flooded into the room from one side while the other appeared as if it were made out of rock. It suddenly came to them that the palace was attached directly to a large, rocky cliffside. Once again, they found themselves in awe at the genius of the construction.

At the far end of the room, there was a grand throne colored in, once again, silvers and golds. A tall, silver haired Muru was perched upon the seat, his head resting in his hand, while another, darker haired, Muru pleaded quietly with him. A large, black cat lay at his feet, licking its paws in boredom. The silver haired twins watched on with amusement, identical grins growing on their lips. The cat looked up at them slowly with glowing green eyes and its tongue ran over its lips. Elrohir gulped and took a step towards his brother who promptly shoved him away.

"Stop being a coward." Elladan hissed under his breath. The other twin scowled.

"Behave!" Arwen growled softly, coming between the two with a glare that reminded the twins of their own father. The older ellon snorted softly and turned away from his brother and sister.

The two arguing Muruien at the far end of the room stopped and turned around when the large cat purred softly and got to its feet. A defeated look was upon the dark haired Muru's face while the other one only grinned, standing quickly to his feet.

"At last!" He cried, "My sons have returned to me!" The silver haired twins grinned and bowed.

"It is a pleasure to see you once more, Father." Ricamros replied, clapping the King on the shoulder as he approached. He looked to his silent son with a soft smile and inclined his head. Tarmikos returned the smile, clapping him on the shoulder as well.

The company remained silent as father and his sons reunited, greeting each other with excited words and peals of laughter. The large cat that had sat at his feet slowly approached them and they could see the tense muscles flexing with each step, its long tail flicking from side to side. It stopped at the King's feet once more and licked its lips, gazing around at the group.

"My lord Judeqir?" Mithrandir suddenly cut in, interrupting the reunion. The three Muruien turned their gaze to the Istar, including the cat, and the King suddenly gasped.

"Incánus?" He breathed, a grin slowly forming on his face.

"It has been a long time." He said, smiling. Judeqir laughed loudly, striding over to place both his hands on his shoulders, giving them a quick squeeze.

"It has, my friend, it has!" He replied, "When I sent my sons out to greet your companions, I had no idea that you would be traveling with them! This is a pleasant surprise indeed!"

"Mithrandir has too many names." Estel whispered, leaning over to Legolas. The elf only smiled, nodding his head in agreement.

"I don't suppose you could provide us with some rooms, could you, Judeqir?" The wizard continued, raising his bushy eyebrows.

"Oh, but of course! How could I have forgotten?" He replied, then turned to the black cat at his feet, "Leneya, please show our guests to their chambers?"

The company watched on in amazement as a light encircled the great cat and, once it had dispersed, revealed a tall woman with black hair that reached her mid-back and green eyes that sparkled in the sunlight. She looked at the group for a brief moment, then turned and bowed to the king.

"Of course, my lord." She answered. He smiled at her, and then returned to his conversation with the wizard. Leneya gazed at all the companions once again, then motioned for them to follow her as she took off down another corridor. She called back, "You come, too, Ricamros! Tarmikos! I will not have you two wandering around the palace smelling and looking as you do!" The Muruien twins grinned and did as they were told.

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Iaurtondariel did not realize how much stress she was put under until she awoke a few days later under the bright sun. The tall, yellow grasses and the smooth rocks that jetted up around her concealed her body. She blinked rapidly as she sat up, propping herself up on her elbows, and she gazed around. Espenshade was perched upon one of the rocks, a dead rabbit in her talons and a piece of its flesh in her beak. The falcon stopped in her chewing to gaze at the elleth for a moment, then resumed eating.

She caught, out of the corner of her eye, the ellon walking in the grasses not too far from her. The elleth watched him, as he would bend down occasionally and pull up a few blades of the grasses, then add it to the collection of wildflowers he already had in his hand. He kept on doing this, and Iaurtondariel quirked her head in curiosity.

Norui smiled slightly despite himself when he sensed the elleth's gaze on him but he pretended not to notice her. He continued his work of gathering the scarce yellow and white flowers, humming softly to himself. Only when he felt he had collected enough did he turn and acknowledge the elleth. She was still watching him with questioning eyes as he strode quietly towards her and he sat down in front of her.

She still couldn't believe that he was alive again. She had seen the goblin slash him on the neck and she had seen him being dragged away. It was still amazing that he had returned, even if he didn't seem the happiest about it. This only confused her more.

"What are you doing?" She managed to ask hesitantly after a long moment of watching him weave the grasses and flowers together. He glanced up at her quickly, and then looked back down to his work.

"Nothing." He answered simply and she frowned.

"Oh."

Espenshade quirked her head, and she nearly turned it completely upside down. Iaurtondariel smiled softly at the falcon, who then chirped and righted her head, gazing off into the distance.

"Where are we going?" The elleth tried again, and she received the same reaction.

"Nowhere." He replied and she scowled slightly.

"Are you going to tell me anything?" She asked. He looked up at her again with the faintest hint of a smile and answered, "No."

Iaurtondariel crossed her arms with a huff of breath and looked into the direction the Peregrine falcon was staring so intently to. She scanned the horizon but found nothing. Sighing, she turned back to the ellon who still worked diligently. She watched his long fingers carefully twist the flowers and grasses together, slowly forming them into a delicate chain.

"How long was I asleep?" She questioned. When he opened his mouth to speak, she quickly silenced him, "And don't even think about using 'no' or 'nothing'." A charming grin spread across his lips.

"A few days, is all. You were no burden." He replied, twirling a white finger between his fingers, "Besides, what is a few days of being carried by me compared to enduring the tortures of the goblins?"

"I was not tortured, just captured." She replied, looking away from him, "I had everything under control back there." The prince coughed back a laugh. Iaurtondariel glared at him.

They sat in companionable silence, despite the previous discussion, and found comfort in each other's presence. The breeze was warm to their faces and rustled the grasses against their skin. The sun gleamed down directly on top of them and it helped cleanse away the discomfort both experienced from being in the darkness for so long. The elleth felt rejuvenated while the ellon basked contentedly in the rays, truly at peace for the first time he returned to his home.

"Iaurtondariel?" He asked softly after a while, not looking up from the chain in his hands.

"Hmm?" She responded, the argument nearly forgotten.

"You said your parents were elf and Muru." He started, "Does that mean that you can change, too? Like your sister did?" The elleth nodded slowly.

"Yes, why do you ask?"

"Curious." He replied, "What is your dominant shape, as you put it?"

"The fox." She answered, quirking her eyebrow, and his smile broadened.

"Well then, Iaurtondariel, I dub thee Hiril Rusc in Perth Malen a Fain." He stated proudly, placing upon her head the wreath of flowers and grasses that he had been so diligently working on. Her lips parted slightly in surprise at his action, feeling a soft pink tinge come to her cheeks. The grin returned to his face as he gazed at her up and down, admiring his own work and how well it suited her. She smiled. (Lady Fox of the Fields of Yellow and White)

"You seem to be in higher spirits today." She pointed out. Norui pursed his lips and drew his knees up under his chin.

"I have been thinking." He said, watching his fingers twist around the blades of grass, "About things."

"That was specific." She commented, tucking her hair back behind her pointed ears, "What sort of things?"

He shuffled anxiously for a moment, not meeting her gaze. The elleth suddenly felt a sort of uneasiness and discomfort. She suddenly did not want to know what it was he had been thinking of.

"It is nothing you need be concerned about." He answered quietly, "Not right now."

"Forgive me, my lord. I did not mean to pry." She said quickly and he shook his head with a faint smile.

"No harm done, Hiril Rusc." He grinned and she chuckled. (Lady Fox)

Norui stood up and stretched languidly, raising his arms to the sky. He groaned softly, and then looked around his surroundings. His eyes landed upon a large, smooth rock and he strode over to it silently. The elleth watched as he slipped his tunic and undershirt off, casting them off to the side, and then lay belly down on the stone. She quirked her brow as she leaned back, trying to keep her gaze from straying too long.

"It seems the noble prince of Mirkwood has transformed into a lazy cat right before my eyes." She smiled and his shoulders shook slightly with laughter.

"Aye, I believe you are right." He replied, arching his back and stretching out his arms with a purr. A grin slowly spread across his lips when he heard her laughter but did not say anything until she had quieted a few moments later. He chuckled, "Well, sorry to displease you, my lady, but this cat is only cold and wishes to bask in the sun."

This caused her heart to skip a beat and she crawled towards him swiftly, causing him to look up at her questioningly.

"What do you mean 'cold'? Are you alright?" Iaurtondariel asked, placing her hand carefully on his bare shoulder.

"I am fine, my lady. It is a different kind of cold." He replied, "It is my soul and my heart that is still frozen within me. I have returned physically to Middle Earth, to my family, but I still feel a part of me is back in Mandos with my Naneth and my friends who have long since parted. I just feel empty. I do not think it will help now but the warm sun upon my back has always helped to sooth me in the past."

She bit her lip in thought, "Perhaps just talking will help. So you know someone still needs you here." She suggested, watching him for his reaction. The muscles on his back seemed to stiffen slightly, and then he shrugged.

"Perhaps."

"Well, you will just have to try then!" She exclaimed, pushing him so he rolled onto his back. His eyes widened slightly, his arms reaching out to brace himself. She kept herself from glancing at his exposed chest as his muscles, hardened from countless years of battle training, twitched to keep him balanced. He looked at her in confusion when she laid down on her side, resting her head in her palm as she grinned at him, "Now, come here and let us speak so we may warm the sluggish cat once again."

When he didn't respond, only staring at her with startled eyes, she sighed and crawled towards him. The wreath on her head went forgotten as it slipped off in her quick motions. Norui's eyes only widened and he pulled himself away.

"What are you doing?" He questioned quickly, praying the rock did not end anytime soon and he would fall off the edge in a heap.

"Nothing, I just want you to relax and speak with me!" She replied, laughing. She reached out and grabbed his wrist, pulling him towards and arranging him in the same position she had been in moments before. To her, the look of shock and confusion on his face was priceless. Once again, she rested her head in her hand with a grin on her face.

"I do not believe this is entirely appropriate, my lady!" He cried, hurriedly clambering up into a sitting position.

"But Norui, I'm only-"

"If you will excuse me!" And with that, he leapt off the rock and grabbed his tunic, then darted off into the distance like a timid deer spooked by a hunter.

A frown came upon the elleth's lips as she watched him disappear behind one of the large boulders and she sighed sadly, rolling onto her back. She squinted her eyes against the sun and her heart tightened in her chest.

'Well, that was brilliant.'

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"You imbeciles!" Eruko shouted, barely able to contain his anger as his servants stood silently in front of him. It took him all he was worth not to strike them down right then and there, "Do you realize what you could have done?"

"It wasn't my fault." Turwaithiel muttered, earning her a dig in the ribs by Uhako.

"I do not care whose fault it was!" The hooded being cried, throwing his arms in the air, "The fact is it was done and nothing can change that!"

They did not respond, only watching him with unwavering eyes. Fear and anxiousness radiated from their bodies. Their silence only enraged Eruko further.

"You have cast away nearly all hope of catching them before they reach the borders, if they haven't already! You have revealed yourselves to the enemy, as well as myself, and that threatens our secrecy! You could have been killed!"

"We were doing fine until-" Uhako was cut off when the lady stomped on his foot to silence him and he growled. The creature stopped in his pacing with narrowed eyes, staring dangerously at the male Muru.

"Until what, Uhako?" He hissed, moving towards him threateningly, "Until I showed up?"

The blood began to pound in the Muru's chest and he felt his confidence wavering. His master continued to glide tauntingly towards him until they were face to face. A cold sweat trailed down his forehead when he saw, just as Turwaithiel had said, that the creature's face was not visible.

"That is not what I meant, my lord." He said quickly, his voice quivering, "You misunderstand me."

"Oh, really? Then pray tell me what it was you were trying to say." He didn't answer, only staring into the empty void that would be his face and Eruko sneered. The Muru found himself holding his breath when a cold blade found its way to his neck, just barely touching his skin. The flickering torches on the ways cast their light on the metal, dancing along the edge dangerously. The lady beside him only watched on with anxious eyes.

"You think me stupid, my servant?" He sneered, drawing a small drop of blood from the Muru's neck, "You do not realize how quickly and easily I can kill you, Uhako. You think me weak and frail but you do not stand a chance against one such as me. Do not think that I keep you out of kindness, for you are mistaken. I keep you because you still owe me something and once that debt is repaid, I will not hesitate in ridding the world of your despicable presence. You are too confident, too sure of yourself, and you will find that that shall be your undoing."

"My lord." Turwaithiel broke in, placing a hand carefully on her master's shoulder. He whipped his head around, glaring daggers.

"What do you want?" He sneered.

"I believe that we still have a chance in this." She stated, her heart pounding in her chest. She hoped the creature could not hear it, " Give us a chance to redeem ourselves; we shall not fail you. And if we do, there is no stopping you in doing what you believe is the best punishment."

Eruko went quiet for a moment, contemplating this idea. The lady did not pull her gaze from him and he could tell she was frightened. A wicked smile came to his lips and he pulled away from the male, replacing the blade back in a hidden sheath. Uhako let loose the breath he was holding.

"Explain."

In a flash of bright light, Turwaithiel disappeared for a few moments and when she appeared again, her appearance had changed drastically. Instead of dark locks, silver hair now flowed down to her hips and her eyes had gone a navy blue. Instead of the worn riding dress she wore, a long robe of silvery-blue took its place along with a fine suit of chain mail beneath it. Her right eye was clouded and discolored.

As the hooded creature took in the sight of the woman before him, his lips twisted into a devilish grin, running his tongue along the points of his teeth.

"Most excellent, Turwaithiel." He said, "Or should I say Lord Ricamros?"

"I will never be that insolent whelp of a prince." She scoffed, even her voice taking on that of the Muru prince, "I do this so you will have your way."

"Then you are wise, my lady." Eruko said. Turwaithiel turned to Uhako who had already transformed into the other Muru, not forgetting the white feather that was always tucked behind his ear. She moved beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"We shall not fail you, Master. We will be sure the travelers do not interfere in your plans."

"I trust you in this. But if you should be unsuccessful, then I will not hesitate in showing you how much power I really have."

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No one spoke as the lady led them through the halls and up winding stairs. The Muruien twins had came to walk on either sides of her, smiling widely as they gazed around in content. They came to a long corridor where creeping vines had been painted along the walls, weaving around the doors in twisting patterns. Pictures of even more odd creatures were hung upon the walls and a silver carpet was spread out the whole length of the floor. Five doors had been spread along the hall, each having a carving of one of the creatures of the forest, and an even grander set was at the far end.

"I leave you here." Leneya said, coming to a halt, "You are free to choose your own chambers, though some of you will have to share; it is not often we have guests in the city. Please, make yourselves at home." She smiled as they nodded their thanks, then turned back to the silver haired twins beside her, "As for you two, you will not be going anywhere in this palace until I am sure you have both bathed!"

"Ah, but Leneya!" Ricamros laughed, "Have you not smelled the guests? I believe they are in need of a bath more then we are!" The lady's jaw dropped and she smacked his arm playfully.

"I do not believe that it is fit for a prince to speak of his guests that way!" She reprimanded, "Now, get! Before I drag you myself!"

They company watched with amused faces as the lady dragged the two Muruien down the hall, pinching their ears in between her fingers. They cried out in protest though laughter laced their voices and, within a few moments, had disappeared behind the doors at the far end of the hallway.

Quick glances were exchanged among the companions, then they all scattered as they laughingly fought for the room of their choice. In the end, Estel shared a room with Arwen-after much persuasion from the twins, of course- while the identical ellons got their own room. The Mirkwood princesses, Lothron and Melyanna, decided to share a room, consequently leaving Legolas and Jaimea left over. They only stared at each other uneasily.

"You can have your own room, if you'd like." The prince said, looking at his feet, "It won't bother me."

"Ah, but Legolas!" Elrohir exclaimed, slinging his arm over the ellon's shoulder with a grin, "You wouldn't allow the lady to sleep alone in a strange land, would you? Someone needs to protect her."

"I must agree." Elladan added, wrapping his arm around Jaimea's waist. The elleth glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, "Besides, Arwen and Estel share a room. Why not you?"

"Because it is not-"

"You are too princely. You know you want to." The younger of the Peredhil twins said, wiggling his eyebrows. The golden haired prince scowled and promptly jabbed his elbow into the other ellon's stomach. Elrohir gasped as the air was sucked out of him and he backed away, bending over with his arms protecting his stomach. He was not aware of his brother laughing loudly at his expense.

Legolas continued to scowl as he strode over to the elleth and tucked her hand in his arm, "Fine, we will share. Besides, we've slept next to each other before…"

The dark haired ellons continued to snicker quietly to themselves as they watched the pair disappear into the room furthest away from their own. When the door clicked softly, they turned to each other with huge grins on their faces and mischievous glints in their eyes.

§§§§§§§§§§§

Nightfall had come swiftly in the Muruien city of Banemera. Mithrandir still had not returned to the company but, at the moment, they did not notice. The companions, including the Muruien princes and Leneya, had gathered in a large chamber where they sat scattered around on the floor and furniture, talking and laughing together. A fire roared in the elaborate hearth, casting shadows on the faces of the travelers. A large tray of assorted foods sat off to the side, stripped clean of any scraps. For the first time in what seemed like forever, they had eaten a proper meal and had taken a refreshing bath, ridding their bodies of the grime that had accumulated despite best efforts.

Tales of warriors and love were exchanged between the races; some comforting, while others awe inspiring. Ricamros, along with the occasional comment from Leneya, told of past kings of the realm and how the Muruien came to live in the forest. In return, the companions took turns in telling their own history and their homes. They could all tell the Muruien were particularly interested in Mirkwood, saying that any type of wood- no matter what evil may lurk there- brought solace to their hearts.

Time wore on and tales were worn out. They were content to just talk of anything that crossed their minds, overjoyed that they could relax for the first time in many months.

"So, what is Lady Leneya to you, may I ask?" Estel asked Tarmikos after a brief moment of silence. He looked up and saw her sitting behind the silent Muru, gently running a white comb through his damp locks, "Lovers?" Leneya smiled slightly, Tarmikos quirked his brow, and Ricamros just laughed.

"No, they are not." He grinned, shaking his head, "She is my eldest brother's wife. She just coddles Tarmikos now that he has…gone away." He said this last part carefully and tensely. The human's lips turned into a frown and he bowed his head.

"Forgive me, my lord." He apologized and the Muru shook his head, smiling.

"It is alright; it is in the past now." He said with a shrug but every person in the room could tell there was something more in his eyes, some dark thought that plagued his mind but would never reveal itself.

"What was his name, if you do not mind me asking?" Arwen questioned, moving to sit beside her brothers. Elladan, who was stretched out on his back, smiled at her and touched her cheek softly with his knuckles. The elleth returned the smile with her own and let her fingers trail through his unbraided tresses.

"Birih." He answered, "He was a good lad, if not a bit arrogant at times. He was the Oqueri, just like Leneya."

"Yes, Iaurtondariel told us that only two Muruien have the same dominant shape and that they were destined to be lovers." Elrohir commented, taking a bite out of a biscuit he had 'salvaged' from the food tray. The silver haired prince nodded.

"It is a good thing you met up with her; she knows much of both Muru and Elf, as you could imagine. 'Tis a shame, though, that I have yet to meet her in person; I have encountered her sister many times but Lady Iaurtondariel was never around." He mused quietly and they fell into silence once more.

"Can you show us your form?" Jaimea suddenly asked, her voice quiet, and both Muruien twins looked up at her, "If it is not too much to ask, of course." A grin slowly formed on Ricamros's lips.

"Ah, my lady, I do not think you would have any interest in my shape but perhaps, "He turned to his brother with a mischievous shimmer in his eye, "Perhaps you would find my brother's more entertaining."

A firm scowl set in upon the Muru's lips and he shook his head vigorously, only to have Leneya tug none too gently on his hair.

"Hold still!" She scolded, fixing his head straight again. He rolled his eyes.

"Come, brother! Show them!" The other one said, still grinning, "I am sure they would love it."

A scowl.

"Please? Do this for them, not me. They are interested." Ricamros waved his hand towards the anxiously waiting group. Tarmikos glanced among them slowly, then rolled his eyes with a defeated look on his face. A blush crept up on his cheeks and a pale light engulfed his form.

Leneya growled and threw the comb to the side, then quickly moved out of the way. She sat cross-legged on the bed; her arms crossed over her chest, but still watched the transformation. The companions leaned forward, each and every one of them curious and excited. Slowly, the light began to dim and the Muru prince was no longer there.

They blinked.

They blinked again.

And, for good measure, they blinked one final time.

"He is adorable!" Every elleth in the room seemed to cry, grins plastered upon their faces. The ellen stared at the form on the bed, their jaws dropped. Ricamros only had a twisted grin on his lips.

Cowering amidst the silver blankets was a small creature, not even two heads tall. Its coat was snowy white and tight curls sprouted up everywhere on its body. In place of feet were tiny black hooves that stood uneasily on the bed. Its ears drooped to the side and its eyes were a bright blue. It did not make a sound, only quivered under their gazes.

Ricamros snickered.

"A sheep?" Elladan breathed, wide eyed.

"A lamb, to be more precise." The other Muru responded, "He is still young in Muruien standards so his form would still be young, as well." The ellon nodded mutely.

The lamb's frightened eyes glanced around at everyone quickly, his body still shaking. Before anymore could be said, the pale light took him again and when it dissipated, the prince had regained his normal form. He dared not look up at those in the room as the blush spread across his face. He was barely aware of Leneya coming up behind him again to finish combing through his hair.

"Well, I thought it was very nice." Lothron commented, trying to raise the spirits of said Muru.

"Yes, I agree." Her sister added, smiling, "It suits your personality." Tarmikos smiled halfheartedly and nodded his thanks.

Soon they indulged in conversation once more, which lasted well into the night. The silent prince soon forgot what had happened and happily indulged in the animated conversation. The true personality of the Muruien twins began to shine through, revealing themselves as lively, energetic people. Very similar to the elven twins, they noted, disheartened. Perhaps it was natural for twins to be that way. Or it could just be that the Valar has something against them.

Soon, fatigue from long days of traveling began to catch up with them and the calling of their beds was all too tempting. One by one, they excused themselves to their chambers and soon found the relief of sleeping in a soft bed once more.

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The borders of the forest rose up not even a mile away. The two elves could make out the green canopy in the distance and the ellon could feel a strange sensation the closer they got to it. But they would not be going in any time soon. Darkness took the land and it would be folly to try to navigate the thick forest. Instead, they decided to stop and make camp, then attempt crossing the borders the next day.

Norui had his hood drawn up again, concealing his features. Both he and Iaurtondariel had barely acknowledged each other ever since the episode on the rocks. They stayed far away from each other, making sure their gazes did not meet. Once a camp had been set up, the ellon went to wander to a place the elleth knew not of, while she was content to just stare into the fire, taking small bites of the food in her hand. Espenshade was left to waddle uncomfortably on the ground for the area was bare of any type of tree.

She did not know how long she sat there, her eyes taking in the licking flames. She pulled her cloak about her shoulders, then brought her knees to her chest and rested her head. She watched the falcon peck at small insects on the ground, and then sighed. There were few stars out that night and clouds concealed the moon. Uneasiness was the only thing she felt.

A bundle of small branches was tossed down beside her and she jumped at the sudden noise. Her head whipped around to see the dark haired prince dusting off his hands, and then striding over to his pack. He withdrew a small piece of bread, then returned to the fire and sat down on the opposite side. He did not look at the elleth once. Iaurtondariel glanced up at him quickly, and then back down to the berries she held in her hand.

"Norui?" She called carefully. He jolted slightly, as if startled at her being there, and then looked up from his own food.

"Yes?" He replied. She shifted uncomfortably; all too aware of his emerald eyes watching her intently.

"I apologize about my forwardness today." She said, dragging her bare feet in the earth, "I honestly did not mean anything by it; I was just trying to help."

"Oh, yes." He muttered, swallowing a bite of the bread, "Well, what's done is done; nothing can change that. It is in the past." He smiled slightly, "You need not ask for forgiveness."

"Thank you, my lord." A shy smile broke upon her face and the prince returned it, though reluctantly. He did not like the way she smiled at him; it made him uneasy. Perhaps it was just his imagination but even so, he wished that they would reach the Muruien city soon. The less time they spent together, the easier it would be for her to forget. He would have to tell her soon but not now. Not now when he was still unsure of the hidden meaning behind her furtive glances and shy smiles. But it wouldn't hurt to dig a little deeper into the idea before he drew his conclusion.

"So, my lady, do you have anyone waiting for you? Friends, family?" He questioned. He tucked back a stray hair that had escaped from his hood.

"No, I can't say I do. I may have aunts or uncles- anyone on my father's side- but I have never met them." She answered, biting her lip.

"Ah, I see." He mumbled to himself, "So I take it you have never been there before."

"That is correct. I've lived with Maladiel all my life."

"Then I guess the assumption that you would have a lover somewhere would be false as well." He asked casually as glanced at her out of the corner of his eye. Slowly but steadily, a faint pink dusting rose up on her cheeks and she smiled, shaking her head.

"Nay, I do not."

There was that smile again and it made him shudder. Not out of distaste or annoyance but out of reluctance that he may have to turn her away.

"I am sorry to hear that." He said quietly, never looking directly up at her. He could feel her questioning gaze on him and he feared that he had given her the wrong impression. He mentally punched himself; that would just make matters worse.

"Tell me about your home, Norui. Being a prince, I'm sure life would be interesting." The prince furrowed his brow in thought.

"If by interesting, you mean demanding and aggravating, then yes." He answered, smiling slightly and she chuckled softly, "But it is alright, I guess. I can't imagine it is much different from your own life. My Ada expects much of me, as do my people, but I deal with it." He finished with a shrug.

"Oh." She was clearly expecting more. He didn't say anything else, just wrapping his arms loosely around his knees and gazing up at the starless sky. It was obvious he was uneasy but she could not figure out why. Perhaps speaking of his home, no matter how little, had awoken some memories that he wished to forget for the time. But, even so, she could not quell the curiosity that was natural with her.

"Well, what about you? Who is waiting for your return?" She continued.

"Hmm, my Ada, of course." He answered, still not looking at her, "A few friends though I do not know the fate of them. For all I know, they may be under the curse of that twisted creature." He said this last part bitterly, his features twisting into a scowl. Iaurtondariel frowned. She reached for one of the sticks Norui had set beside the fire and began tracing fine lines into the earth. Espenshade cackled quietly a little ways off. The elleth took a deep, shuttering breath.

"A lover?"

Norui looked up at her sharply, already fearing the worst. He found she would not meet his gaze and his heart skipped a beat. His mouth opened to speak but he quickly closed it, eyes glancing quickly between her and the fire.

"Well, uh…Oh, Iaurtondariel, I-"

"I am sorry, my lord, I shouldn't have asked." She quickly amended, "It is none of my business."

"No, no! It's all right. It's just…difficult." He assured her and she nodded slowly. He racked his mind for the right thing to tell her. Now would be the perfect time to let her know about Glithiel but he was not even sure if she was still alive. She could have succumbed to the Muru's hold long ago though he still felt that tie within himself; the tie that told him his love still lived. Besides, even if she had passed, he would never be able to love another if he did not pass to Mandos's Halls. He sighed, running his hands over his pale face, "I do not know."

Iaurtondariel furrowed her brow at her response. What did that mean? How could he not know? Perhaps he loved someone but they didn't return his affections. Maybe his father set up an arranged marriage. A heavy frown set upon her lips.

"Norui, what do you mean?" The Crown Prince looked between his spread fingers with tired eyes. He sighed, shaking his head, and stood up.

"We need to get some rest." He said hurriedly, and then strode off to his bedroll, leaving the elleth alone by the fireside.

So what did that mean? She had gotten no answer to her question from that response. He was unwilling to talk about it, so perhaps that was a good sign. For her, at least. She only wished that she would receive a straight answer from the ellon. The elleth buried her face in her arms, rocking herself gently on her haunches. What did it mean?

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"Legolas, what are you doing?"

The golden haired prince looked up to see Jaimea sitting upon the bed, clad in a nightgown she had found in the wardrobe, with her arms crossed over her chest. The ellon looked down to the blanket he held in his hand, then back up to her face. He shrugged with a small smile on his face.

"Nothing." He answered. The elleth rolled her eyes in a very un-elflike way and crawled over to the side to let her legs dangle.

"You've never had a problem sleeping next to me before. How is this so different?"

"Because it was outside before. This time, it is in a bed." He retorted, crossing his own arms. She quirked her brow.

"So?"

"'So'? This is completely wrong! Indecent! Against everything that I've ever been taught!" He exclaimed, throwing his arms in the air. She only chuckled, sliding off the bed, and then coming to stand before him.

"You are just being paranoid, my prince." She whispered, wrapping her arms around his neck, "No one is here to see it. Everything is fine." A grin slowly formed upon her face and she kissed his chin, "Come on." He paused for a moment, then a soft moan escaped his lips and he nodded.

"Fine." He mumbled and slipped away from her. Jaimea laughed softly, then crawled back into the bed and settled underneath the blankets. She watched as Legolas reluctantly slid under the covers, a troubled look on his face. She grinned playfully and, much to his shock, slid quickly over to him and reached out to him, "What are you doing?" He cried, moving away.

"Come, you cannot sleep like that! Get comfortable and relax." She laughed.

"Maybe if you wouldn't come after me like that." He muttered and she shook her head in exasperation.

"Don't be so paranoid, Legolas." She said, "You aren't doing anything wrong."

"I'm not paranoid…" He retorted gently.

"Then come and rest. Stop worrying."

He studied her for a moment, then sighed in defeat and moved back into the middle of the bed. Jaimea smiled at him, coming to lie beside him. Much to her surprise, considering that he had just been completely against the idea of sleeping in the same bed, he put his arms around her waist and rested his chin on top of her head.

"See? This isn't so bad." She scolded playfully, resting her head on his collarbone. He grumbled in response.

"You are completely different when you are with others, you know." He commented softly, "You act differently around me." He heard her sigh and she pulled herself closer to his body.

"I don't feel like I have to hide anything from you." She answered softly.

"What would you have to hide?"

"Nothing…you just make me comfortable."

This brought a smile to the young ellon's lips and he kissed her forehead, his hands twisting in her golden hair. Her hands trailed down his shoulders and rested on his back, rubbing in slow circles. The prince's lips strayed down to her cheek, her chin, the corner of her mouth, and then finally rested gently on her lips. He felt her sigh into his mouth as she granted him entrance and he explored her mouth tenderly. The kiss was careful and easy, unlike most of the previous kisses that they had shared. Both elves found they liked this way better.

Despite everything in him screaming that he shouldn't be doing this, he let his hands roam to her back and he pulled her even closer. She showed no resistance though a giggle came forth. He struggled not to, but he found himself moaning softly into her mouth. The giggle grew into a laugh and the elleth pulled away from him, her eyes alight. He looked at her questioning, his own eyes glazed.

"Someone has had a change of minds." She teased, grinning, and he blushed with a smile.

"Forgive me, I couldn't help myself." He replied, "Come, we need to rest." Jaimea nodded once, then returned to rest her head on his chest. He, once again, wrapped his arms around her and was soon lost to oblivion.

XXXXX

Alright! Look how long this is, wow! Seventeen pages in MSWord and 7265 words total! And to think, I was going to continue! Hehe but nope! You have to wait more! Because of the length of the chapter, I'll cut this short. Thank you, everyone, for reading and reviewing!

Thank you, Ty, for betaing this extra long chapter:D If I were in your shoes, I'd just toss it away to finish 'later'. Hehe. Thanks again! And HI CREEP::grin:

And while you are here, go look at the pretty painting I did on Artpad! If it doesn't work and you want to see it, let me know in your review and I'll email it to you!

http/ artpad .art. com /gallery ?isr7 cwdwsjs

Okay, bye bye, peoples!

Until Next Time,

Manwathiel