¡Hola, mis amigos! ¿Cómo usted es? Espero que usted quiso el último capítulo. ¡Optimistamente, éste será un poco mejor y no puedo esperar para escribir acerca de Espenshade! ¡Yay! ¡Bien, goza el capítulo cuarenta y dos!

Translation: Hello, my friends! How are you all? I hope you liked the last chapter. Hopefully, this one will be a bit better and I can't wait to write about Espenshade! Yay! Alright, enjoy chapter forty two!

Italics represent thoughts

'….' represents Tarmikos' notes

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Chapter 42- Here Beside You

Legolas held his breath, his eyes wide, as he waited for the golden light to dissipate. He knew in his heart what exactly was happening yet he didn't want to believe it. Espenshade couldn't be…she was just a falcon…. right? There was no way she could have kept this secret for all those years.

But no matter how hard he wished it were not so, the light slowly began to dissipate and his heart leapt into his throat. The long, elegant wings of his friend were replaced with slender arms and in place of silky feathers was a mane of golden hair. Talons disappeared, fingers and bare feet taking their place. Nothing seemed the same anymore to the young prince; the only thing he could recognize was her sapphire eyes that now glowed angrily at the king.

Judeqir returned this glare with his own, crossing his arms over his broad chest. The silver haired twins watched on with wide eyes, glancing back and forth between their father and the maiden perched upon the nightstand. She was garbed in strange clothing that looked as if it had been put together in a matter of minutes. Patches were stitched upon more patches and the whole outfit was comprised of browns and faded grays. Her disheveled hair was allowed to hang freely over her eyes, causing the awed group to cower slightly under her gaze. All in all, it looked as if she had just been captured from the wilds of some unknown land.

"There, now that was not so hard, was it?" The king questioned arrogantly. The woman made a hiss-like noise from her throat, her face twisting into a sneer, "Well? Are you going to answer me or have you forgotten how to do that?"

"Shut up!" She growled, her voice hoarse. It seemed as if it had been years since proper speech had come forth from her lips, "You have done enough already!"

"What ever could you mean? I thought it best that your companions know who exactly they are traveling with." He retorted, motioning towards the still stunned group. Some stared at her with wide eyes while others just turned an unnatural pale color.

"Perhaps. But you could have done it in a more subtle manner!" The king's frown deepened and he rubbed his chin.

"What a temper you have acquired. Where has that come from, hmm?" He was replied with only a scowl.

The room fell into uncomfortable silence, no one daring to move lest they spark the wrath of the female onto themselves. Elladan had stilled again though a small frown was upon his lips. Arwen only barely stroked his hand, her eyes upon the angered lady. It was only when the woman hopped down from the nightstand did anyone begin to move again. And that was out of fear of her wrath. Her lips turned down as she gazed at each and every one of them.

"You see what you have done? They now cower from me, all because of you." She said softly though bitterly.

"I have done nothing. You are the one who makes them move away from you with your vile manners."

"I think," Estel began cautiously, clearing his throat, "What we really need are some answers. This is…most unexpected." He flinched when both king and maiden turned their hardened gazes towards him.

"And answers, you shall receive, my lord." Judeqir said, smiling stiffly at him, "Yes, all of us need some answers to our questions. And not just you."

Another scowl found its place upon Espenshade's lips.

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Uhako watched in annoyance as the maiden peered around the corner, her back rigid from anxiousness. They had been discussing what was to be done next and so far, nothing had come of their arguing. Somehow, they had both left their master's lair without even an initial plan except to get into the palace as the twin princes. After that, make sure they proved no threat to Eruko but how to do that exactly?

Well, that was where the arguing started.

"Why don't we just all in their sleep?" He suggested after a moment, leaning back against the wall with his arms crossed.

"I would prefer something that is more planned out, if you don't mind." Turwaithiel replied tensely, "You make it sound simpler then it really is."

"If you care so much about it, why don't you take care of it?"

The Muru glared as the woman turned back to face him, a glare of her own upon her face. She stalked back to him, her fists clenched at her sides, and she leered into his eyes. Uhako could sense a great tension emanating from her body yet he said nothing to her, only holding his chin higher.

"Do you not want to be free of our Master?" She questioned.

"I desire my freedom as much as you do your own, my lady, but there must be another way. Perhaps we don't need to ."

"Oh? And how would we do that, hmm?"

He did not reply, only sighing tensely and hardening his glare. She looked his face up and down, then scoffed and turned away from him. He scowled at her back.

"Come, Uhako, we have a job to do."

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Even after a few moments of running, the ellon found himself lost in the winding corridors of the palace. To him, everything looked the same and only the paintings on the walls varied. He came to a halt suddenly and he immediately dropped to the floor, his head hanging.

What a coward he was for running! He could have been reunited with his younger brother and all would be well. He did not know what had made him flee like that. Maybe it was the suspense of the moment, or the anxiety that had built up inside of his body ever since he had…returned. Or maybe just the fear of rejection.

No, Legolas would never reject him, not matter what. He was just worrying over nothing. Once they met once again, they could continue on with their mission and save their father. At least, that was what he hoped.

Norui sighed, running his long fingers through his wild hair. He began to wonder who those two Muruien really were and if they could help him go about meeting up with his brother again. They seemed to know him so maybe he could recruit their help. A chuckle escaped his lips at this thought- he was sounding very foolish right now. Oh, how Legolas would laugh if he knew the trouble the Crown Prince was putting himself through.

"My lord?" A timid voice called, breaking him away from his thoughts. The ellon looked up slowly and found a dark haired lady staring down at him with worried eyes, "Are you alright?" The elf smiled slightly and nodded his head.

"Yes, I am alright. Thank you, my lady." He replied.

"I do not think I have seen your face before." She commented as he came to his feet, "May I ask your name?"

"Norui, my lady. I just arrived with a friend not long ago." He answered, "And you?"

"Leneya, my lord Norui. I find it odd how more and more elves keep showing up. Would you be related or acquainted with any of the travelers who arrived but a few days ago?"

"Indeed, I am." A smile lit up on the maiden's face.

"I assume you shall be staying a while then. Come, I will find you a guest room." Leneya said eagerly, already leading him off down another hall, "Forgive me if I seem to bold, my lord, but would you happen to be related to Lord Legolas? If it weren't for the eyes and hair, I'd say you were him!"

"Aye, he is my little brother." Norui replied, a warm smile upon his lips. He found himself quickening his pace to keep up with the woman while still admiring the palace. She was a fiery one, he concluded quickly as she weaved among the occasional crowds of people in the halls. She seemed to be respected by the others, he noticed, for they bowed to her as they passed. Maybe she was a princess.

Finally, they came to one last hall and Norui froze in his tracks, his eyes widening. She brought him back to the room Legolas was in! Once again, he found his heart quickening and he turned to the woman.

"Isn't there another place I could stay?" He questioned hurriedly, glancing between her and the closed doors. Leneya frowned slightly.

"I am sorry, my lord, but these are all we have at the moment. Besides, I thought you would like a room by your brother." She replied. The ellon hesitated a moment, then swallowed hard.

"Very well, this will do. Thank you very much, my lady." Her smile appeared once again and she directed him to another room a little ways down the hall.

"Here you are, my lord. You may stay in this room, right across from your brother. It is the only one left, so consider yourself lucky that you came in time." She said quickly, then started off down the hall, "If you need any of us, we will be in this room here." Norui nodded, smiling, then turned to go into his room but stopped suddenly.

"My lady, would you please do one thing for me?" He questioned hesitantly.

"What is it?"

"Please, do not tell anyone of my arrival. It is sort of a…. surprise." Leneya frowned slightly, but her face quickly lit back up and she nodded.

"Of course, my lord." With a nod of her head, she opened the door and disappeared from sight.

Almost immediately, the frown appeared on the Crown Prince's lips and he leaned against the wall, sighing heavily. No doubt, Legolas would be able to sense his presence if they were that close. True, that was sort of what he wanted but he was still hesitant about it. The same fears that had been plaguing his mind returned and ate away at him until it was unbearable.

Finally and with another glance to the doors that Leneya just disappeared into, he stepped away from the wall and entered his room, closing the door with a soft click. He would take care of Legolas and the rest of them later.

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"Now, without jumping down my throat, I would like to know why you have come back." Judeqir began as he leaned back against the wall. His two sons still had not moved from their spots, eyes transfixed on the woman. Espenshade crossed her arms with a scoff.

"You know why- I shouldn't have to answer that." She replied bitterly.

"Father, perhaps it would be best to let her explain herself to her companions first. I think your questions should wait until we have more privacy." Ricamros suggested carefully but he went unheeded.

"You could have stayed outside the city and waited." The king retorted to the maiden, one brow raised, "Besides, you did not arrive with them. You came on your own, did you not?"

"No, I came with another."

"And who is that?"

"Lady Iaurtondariel, if you remember her."

Nobody noticed as Ricamros quickly looked to the floor at the mention of the elleth. A faint tinge of pink spread up his neck and Tarmikos quirked his brow. The older twin gave him a reassuring smile but he only raised his brow further.

"Ah, yes, I believe I do. Only a little elfling when last she came though, and the twins were less then half the size they are now." Judeqir commented, running a hand through his long hair, "But that does not matter. My next question for you is why did you came back when you knew that it was not permitted?"

"My lord, that is the same question." Espenshade replied, rolling her eyes. The king paused for a long moment, studying the woman before him. She did not waver in her piercing gaze.

"Why do you not call me by my rightful name?" He questioned after a while.

"And what is that? Judeqir?" She retorted, smirking. He narrowed his eyes.

"You know what I mean." He said and the frown, once again, se elf upon her features.

"You lost that title long ago, my lord."

"Then just let me hear it, for old times sake." He said and Espenshade scowled hotly.

"You do not have to rub it in, my lord. I know that you are still my father, no matter how much pain it brings to admit it."

"You mean you are his daughter?" Estel questioned, being the only one with enough to courage to speak to the hot-tempered woman, "That would make you a princess."

"Yes, you-"

"Enough with the stalling." The king cut in again, earning himself yet another glare, "You know you were not to return here after what you committed, unless you wished to be punished severely."

"Banished, my lord?" Lothron piqued up as she stepped away from the bed, "What happened, exactly?"

Slowly, Espenshade slowly turned to face the elleth. Her face mirrored deep sorrow and regret. In the blink of an eye, the fiery maiden had become as gentle as the bird she once was. Tears began to well up in her eyes and her legs shook beneath her as if threatening to collapse. Before this could happen, she allowed herself to lean against the wall and slip down to the ground, her head in her hands. Judeqir's determined face did not falter. Cautiously, both Muruien twins made to go to her but the king held out a hand to halt them. It was a long moment before the distressed maiden finally raised her eyes to the group again. The fire had returned once more.

"I did nothing to deserve such punishment. I only did what I thought was right." She whispered miserably.

"What you thought was right? You think allowing your mother and brother to die 'right' when you know you could have saved them?" The king growled, his anger near its peak.

"It was not time. Something told me that I could not do it yet. My power would be needed elsewhere at another time."

"But what can be more important then your family's life, Espenshade! What can be so important that you must sacrifice those who you love?" She said nothing, only letting her head hang. The company continued to watch on in concern and confusion, glancing between one another questioningly, "Or was it not that? Did you seek revenge because of what I did to that wretched man?" Instantly, her head snapped up.

"Do not speak of him that way. He is still with us and can hear everything that we say."

"Which man?" Lothron spoke up once again and Espenshade looked towards her.

"You knew him but only for a brief time. Can you guess?"

The three siblings of Mirkwood glanced between one another, searching each other's gazes for an answer. Melyanna and Lothron spoke quietly together though Legolas had already guessed the answer. He swallowed hard.

"Daeron." He answered softly. The maiden only nodded once.

Long ago, a terrible shadow had fallen over the palace of Mirkwood, threatening the lives of every elf there. For protection, the royal family was taken in by a tall, fair-haired man by the name of Daeron. Though he was able to protect them from almost all harm, he perished in the end during the night.

"That only adds to the reason for your banishment, daughter. Had you not been running around with him, you might not have been punished so severely." Judeqir continued, unhindered by the others' comments.

"He was a good person, my lord, and he loved me like no one ever had."

"Good! He was a scoundrel, Espenshade, and you know this! I cannot tell you how many times I received reports of him stealing from the shops and the people. He did not even need the things he stole!"

The three elves of Mirkwood seemed to perk up at this new information and they furrowed their brows. Surely, this could not be the same Daeron they once knew. He seemed so noble and respectful, not one who would resort to theft. Legolas made a mental note to himself to speak to Espenshade later…if he ever found the courage, that is. He shuffled anxiously in his spot next to Jaimea, then looked back up to the Muru princess.

"Father, please, could we discuss this later? I beg of you, I cannot speak of it right now." She pleaded, gazing up at the silver haired king. His face did not soften as he glared at her form, as if sizing her up. After a long tense moment, he scoffed under his breath and stepped towards the door.

"Fine." He growled, "But do not think yourself free from punishment. For now, you will remain with your brothers until your room can be made up. Then will we talk." The lady's steely eyes did not leave the king's back until the door shut behind him. And almost instantly, all eyes turned warily to her.

Quickly, she wiped away the tears and brushed her long hair back out of her eyes, trying her hardest to regain control of her emotions. She pushed herself up slowly, ignoring the stares of the companions and she leaned against the wall. It was a long moment before anyone spoke and Espenshade found she had trouble meeting the gazes of her two brothers.

"I suppose I do have some explaining to do." She mumbled under her breath, the tears still lacing her voice.

"I do not feel you are quite ready to do any of that, my lady." Legolas replied softly, keeping his eyes to the floor, "You should get settled in first. And I'd imagine you'd want time alone with your brothers." She stared at the golden haired prince for a long moment, and then turned back to Ricamros and Tarmikos as they stood suddenly.

"He is right, sister. There is much to talk about." The older twin agreed, smiling as best he could, "Come." Espenshade hesitated a moment, then took a few tentative steps towards them both. He smiled at her as she took his arm, then turned to the group, "Please, excuse us." And with a bow of their heads, they left.

Silence reigned once more, no one quite sure what to say next. This was definitely a surprise, they muttered to themselves, what will happen next? They just hoped that this new discovery wouldn't hinder their mission in some way.

A few more moments passed and, without any words exchanged, they went back to their own personal business.

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The Muruien siblings did not show themselves again throughout the day nor at dinner. The king, though, went about his normal duties though those present in the room could tell that his feathers were still ruffled. They avoided him as best as they could and said not a word to him. Legolas began to fear that Judeqir would turn on him, claiming he was to blame for bringing his daughter back to the city.

When the group returned from dinner, they found that Elladan had awoken and was in a very cross mood, glaring as soon as they entered. He complained of a throbbing headache- which did not surprise the travelers- and hunger. A tray of food was brought to them and he quickly ate it down. Thankfully, he seemed to be in a more tolerable mood after that. No one asked questions about what had happened for none desired to know the pain he may have gone through. Of course, this mood did not last long when a healer forced him to down a drinking draught that had him out in five minutes, a small frown upon his lips.

Night fell and the moon made itself known. One by one, the companions drifted off to their respecting rooms and quickly fell into a deep slumber. No one mentioned a word about the door adjacent from the golden haired ellon's room that seemed to be dark inside yet they could feel a faint presence. Everyone was exhausted.

Ricamros sighed tiredly as he looked up from the book he read to see his sister fast asleep on the soft chair, her head tucked in the corner of the arm. His younger brother was resting up against the same chair, blue eyes gazing into the crackling fire in the hearth. After leaving the others, they three with one another in the princes' chambers. Many tears were shed, both of happiness and of sadness, but it did them all good in the end. Ever since then, they had been in the palace's library, content to just sit in comfortable silence. The king may not be pleased with his daughter's reappearance but both princes felt it was time for her to rejoin the family.

"What do you think father will do to her?" Ricamros asked after a moment. His brother shook his head with a small shrug, never tearing his eyes aware from the licking flames, "It wasn't her choice to come back. I would like it if she stayed but we both know that cannot happen."

Tarmikos turned his head to gaze at his brother for a long moment. The elder twin could clearly read the message in the Muru's eyes, telling him not to worry, but he could not help but do so. The idea of losing Espenshade again made his heart constrict in his chest.

"I am going to take a walk around the halls." He stated, closing his book softly and setting it on the table, "Care to join me?" Tarmikos did not seem to acknowledge the offer and so the older Muru sighed, and then strode from the library. The younger twin did not even flinch when the door closed.

The Muru prince ran his fingers through his long, silver hair as he paced slowly down the halls. The stars had begun to peek in through the large windows and the moon shone brightly in the sky. The familiar sounds of the night creatures soothed the prince and the presence of his people wandering the corridors calmed his mind. He let his feet take him where they will, no particular destination in mind.

He was only brought back to attention when something slammed into him, nearly knocking him onto his back. He let out a startled yelp but quickly silenced himself when he realized who it was. His bright eyes widened, his pale neck flushing furiously.

Iaurtondariel quickly backed away from him, muttering apologies under her breath. Her fingers played absently with her dark hair, eyes fixed on the ground. Ricamros struggled to bring words to his lips.

"Uh…my lady, what brings you out in the halls at such a late hour?" He inquired quickly and she shook her head.

"Nothing, I was just wandering." She replied just as hurriedly. Not wanting to be rude, the prince swallowed hard and shook off his anxiousness.

"Well, since we both have nothing better to do, would you mind gracing me with a walk?"

"I don't know- it is late."

"Please, my lady? How about I walk you to your chambers?" The elleth seemed to hesitate for a moment, looking anywhere but his eyes, and nodded once.

"I would be honored." She answered quietly. A nervous smile flitted across the Muru's lips as he held up his arm and the lady took it, both of them without ever meeting each other's eyes. As they walked, a tension hovered above them and all they passed seem to stray away from them, glancing at them with curious eyes.

"I hope you have settled in well." He started after a moment, shifting uncomfortably under the silence.

"Indeed, my lord." She answered stiffly. Her arm was rigid on his, "Being here brings back old memories. We never met when we were young, did we?"

"No, I do not believe so." Ricamros cleared his throat softly as he rounded the corner, "But I do remember hearing of you. Have you been well since then?" Iaurtondariel opened her mouth to speak but quickly closed it, rethinking her words. The Muru prince noticed this but did not say anything.

"Yes, I have been fine." She replied. The prince's lips tightened- he could tell that was a lie.

"That is good to hear." Her response was only a curt nod, and then silence fell over them once more. And the Muru prince did not like it one bit, "I remember seeing you when you first arrived here with Incánus; you were still a young child then, as was your sister. Still to young to be left on your own, someone was always with you. I never had the chance to properly meet you, nor did my brother."

"Yet you seem to remember me." Ricamros barely managed to hide the falter in his steps.

"Well, yes, I do…how could I not?"

"You, too, were still a young child. How would a boy remember a girl who meant very little to him?"

The prince shuffled anxiously for a moment before answering tentatively, "I was…watching you."

"You were watching me!" Iaurtondariel cried, jumping away from with wide, horrified eyes. The twin quickly shook his head in embarrassment, holding up his hands and looking every which way but at her.

"No, you misunderstand!" He exclaimed, "I just meant that I kept an eye on you to make sure you weren't hurt or lost."

"I had my maids, thank you very much! I didn't need a nosy prince watching out for me!"

"But my lady, I was only concerned for your wellbeing."

"I do not care what it was for, my lord. You should have some decency when it comes to a lady's privacy!" The Muru winced as her ranting increased, words flying off her tongue unheedingly. A few Muruien poked their heads out of the chambers to watch them with interested eyes.

"My lady…" He started, pleading with her, but was cut off by her continuous outburst, "My lady, please…" An agitated growl escaped his lips as she continued to ignore him. A glare in his eyes, he quickly turned to her and pressed his hand firmly against her mouth, silencing her. She gazed up at him, startled, "Hush, you are waking the-"

Ricamros's eyes widened when he realized he had done exactly the thing he had been trying desperately to avoid: look into her eyes. She seemed to sense the elevated tension as well as a faint blush spread up to her cheeks.

In the blink of an eye, a glow surrounded both of them, concealing them from the astonished gazes of the onlookers. The Muruien watched with baited breath as the light dimmed to nothing and darkness took over once more. Excited grins broke upon their faces at the sight that now sat before them.

Quaking with uneasiness upon the marble floor sat two small foxes; one silvery white while the other was dark in color, almost black. The silver creature had its tail tucked between its legs; it's claws clattering anxiously on the floor. The other did not move a single muscle in its body; it's silky fur standing on end. The two only stared at each other with shocked expressions on their faces. They did not even flinch when a bystander chuckled quietly.

A short yip came from the silver fox that promptly turned and hurried back down the hall; it's tail still between its legs. The black creature did nothing except stare, rooted to the spot.

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Norui awoke the next morning to a soft rapping on the door. For a moment, he thought he was back in Mirkwood in his soft bed. A small smile came upon his lips as he began to drift back to sleep but the knocking continued. Groaning slightly in displeasure, he raised his head from the pillow and looked around.

Memories of the day before invaded his mind and he frowned, hanging his head: this was not home. He lay there for a moment longer, trying to enjoy the comfort of the bed and blankets until he heard the door creak open slowly. He glanced over his shoulder to see Leneya peeking in, a smile upon her face. He returned it with his own, then sat up.

"Good to see you awake, my lord." She greeted, coming into the room and closing the door behind her, "I trust you slept well."

"The best I've had in a long time, thank you." He replied, smiling. This response brought a grin to the lady's lips. Exuberant one, he thought as she hurried over to him and sat upon the edge of his bed. He quirked his brow; bold one, as well.

"The morning meal is being served in the dining hall. I believe your brother will be heading down there soon, if you would wish to join him."

"You have not told him I am here, have you?" He questioned and she quickly shook her head, a shocked look in her eyes.

"Oh no, of course not! I remember your words, my lord, have no fear." She answered, patting him on the hand, "Now, I'll leave you so you may dress and then I'll take you to the dining hall."

The Crown Prince hesitated as he looked upon her, worry shimmering in his eyes. Who knew seeing his brother again was going to be this blasted hard!

"No, could you just have someone bring it up to me? If it is not too much trouble, of course." He replied as he tried to mask the war that was raging in his mind. For the first time since he met her, Leneya frowned.

"Of course, my lord, bu eems like you would be anxious to see Lord Legolas again. Do you not wish to see him?"

"That is not it at all. I desire to see him above all else but I'm just not ready yet. It's not time."

"And when will it be time? What are you waiting for, exactly?"

Sighing, Norui placed his head in his heads and shut his eyes. He could still feel the maiden's questioning eyes on him and it unsettled him. For a moment, he was reminded of his mother's stern yet caring demeanor and he wished that she was here with him. He met her again in Mandos's Halls yet that was not enough. He wanted her back.

"My lord? I will help you in anyway I can. You just need to tell me what is keeping you." The ellon massaged his forehead with his knuckles for a moment, and then looked up to her with a small frown.

"I will tell you but you cannot tell anyone else."

And so he began to relay his story back to her. How he traveled with his companions all the way to the White Mountains where he was slain by the leader of the goblins. He indicated to the thin scar on his throat when she doubted the truth, and she was shocked to say the least. He continued to tell her how he was pulled unwillingly from the peace of the Halls and forced to endure the pain of returning. How he then met up again with Iaurtondariel and Espenshade, then continued to the city. He let his emotions spill out to her and Leneya listened with rapt attention to every detail, hanging on his words. She did not say a word until he let his head hang once more.

Awed, the lady touched the Crown Prince's shoulder gently and he looked up at her, "I truly do not know what to say, my lord." She said softly, "But I am honored that you felt you could trust me. Just tell me what I can do and I will see to it."

Norui smiled sadly at the maiden's determination and nodded, "Thank you, my lady Leneya. I feel as if a great burden has been lifted off my shoulders."

"It is nothing. Now, tell me what to do."

A small smile slowly grew upon the ellon's lips.

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Uhako jolted awake when a sharp kick impacted with his side. He grunted in pain, curling up into a ball, until he heard someone growl under their breath from behind. His eyes snapped open and he rolled over, gazing into the eyes of his female companion. She was still in her disguise, yet he could identify her in any form.

"Time to get up." She said, standing up, and he rolled his eyes. He came to his feet, stretching languidly.

"I can't believe we had to sleep in a closet." He muttered under his breath as he scrambled for the door. His hand found the handle and he pushed it open a crack, peering out into the hall- no body was around. He opened it fully, and then stepped out into the corridor.

"Well, believe it. Until we complete our mission, a closet will have to do." Turwaithiel replied, straightening out her robes, "Now come on." Uhako watched as she turned and strode down the hallway with a scowl on his face. Since when do I take orders from her, he thought.

"Do you have an idea?" He asked after he caught up with her.

"Not yet." She answered quickly.

"We need to think of something."

"I know that."

"Well, why don't we-"

"Shh!" The lady cut him off, slapping her hand over his mouth, and pulled him against the wall. His glare met her blue eyes and she placed her finger to her lips, "One of the twins is there in the next hall." She whispered quickly, "I think it is Tarmikos."

"What do we do?" He responded just as quietly.

"I do not know; we need to get down there." She replied, "Maybe I can distract him while you sneak behind, alright?" Uhako nodded.

"No problem." He said, smirking slightly and she smiled, "Good luck." She did not respond as she turned from him and headed directly towards the silent Muru.

Tarmikos shut his eyes as he leaned up against the wall, breathing deeply. The thick air of the dining hall had begun to choke him so he left in search of fresh air. Sure, he never ventured outside but this little patch of sunlight was enough for now. He barely heard the approaching footsteps of another, steps that he did not recognize, and he opened his eyes. He furrowed his brow- Ricamros?

His brother sauntered up to him, a smile upon his lips. But almost immediately, the twin narrowed his eyes and backed away. This did not feel like his brother. Maybe he did in appearance, but not his presence.

"Good morning, my brother." He greeted, smiling, "How have you been?" The younger twin only continued to gaze at this person with suspicious eyes. Slowly, he lifted his hands and moved them in a strange pattern. Turwaithiel frowned.

'Oh no…I forgot about that! Now what?' She mentally scolded herself, and then glanced back to the prince with a shrug.

"Forgive me, I cannot remember what that means." She said, swallowing hard. Already, this was not going as planned, "Could you write it out please?"

An inaudible snort came from the young Muru and he rolled his eyes discreetly. His brother would never ask him to write down his words yet he obeyed anyway. Without taking his bright eyes from the Muru, he reached into his pocket and took out a piece of parchment. He took out the feather from his hair and quickly scratched something down, then handed it to his 'brother'.

'Why aren't you in the dining hall?' It said.

"Ah, I've already had my fill for the morning." She answered but soon found herself shifting nervously under the prince's guarded eyes. He wrote another message.

'The meal started only ten minutes ago and Father never lets us out early. I am here because I snuck out while he was occupied.'

"Oh, well…he gave me permission. I was not feeling well."

'But you just said you had your fill.'

Turwaithiel cleared her throat nervously, scratching the back of her neck. Never did she believe that a mute Muru could be so intimidating! She felt as if he could see right through her disguise. What a brilliant plan this was!

"Forgive me, Tarmikos. If you will excuse me." She muttered hurriedly and strode in the opposite direction, face staring down at the ground. Shivers were sent up her spine at the feeling of his eyes on her.

A few moments later, she heard him walk away and she sighed in relief. Opening her eyes, she was met with those of the amused Uhako, a small grin upon his face. She scowled.

"I don't want to hear a word from you." She growled.

"Did I say anything?"

"Be quiet!"

"I didn't say anything!"

IOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOIOI

It seemed all anyone could do for the past day is frown, Legolas thought as he massaged his forehead with two fingers. The strange feelings he had been having had intensified and was beginning to hurt his head, so much so that he asked to be excused from the meal. And he could not help but notice Leneya sending him frequent secretive looks, as if she knew something he didn't. It was all very strange. And with the new knowledge of his beloved pet falcon, he doubted if anything would ever be the way they were before.

Speaking of her, he had not yet had the chance to speak about everything that had been kept secret. He wondered if his mother knew the princess's secret when she gave her to him. But most importantly was, why didn't she tell him?

Someone cleared their throat from the doorway and he looked over, and then smiled softly. He motioned for the person to come to him and she obeyed happily. When she had sat down beside him, he placed his arm around her waist and gave her a peck on the cheek.

"What brings you here, my lady?" He asked.

"This room is as much mine as it is yours, is it not?" Jaimea replied, earning herself a grin, "I just wanted to be sure you were alright."

"I am fine. My head just aches, is all, probably from all that has happened."

"Perhaps you just need to rest- it may do you some good."

"I do not know what I need." The prince said, "I feel as if something else has been awoken in me, though I cannot figure out what it is. Something important, I know, but what?"

"Espenshade, maybe?" The elleth suggested but the ellon shook his head.

"No, it began before that. Do not worry about it, it will pass in time." He gave her a smile of reassurance but she only glanced at him skeptically. A chuckle escaped his lips as he allowed himself to fall back onto the bed, his hair spreading wildly about his head. He felt the elleth stand up from the bed and he cracked open one eye to look up at her. She had suddenly gone rigid and an uncertain look upon her face.

"Legolas…" She started but never finished her sentence as the golden haired elf sat up quickly, eyes wide.

Standing in the doorway was the very lady that was most on his mind. She had rid herself of her tattered tunics and now wore a flowing, silver gown, her hair done up in a loose braid. Just by her posture, the prince could tell she was uncomfortable with the new clothing but she suffered through it.

"Um, good morning, my lady." He greeted weakly and the familiar frown found it's way to her lips.

"Are formalities suddenly necessary between us, Legolas?" Espenshade retorted, "I thought it may be a good time to speak of matters of late, if you are not busy."

"Oh, not at all." He replied hurriedly, plastering a quick smile on his face. But she could still tell he was hesitant. Giving him a forced smile as well, she came fully into the room and sat down beside him with her hands in her lap.

"If you would prefer I leave, just ask." Jaimea spoke up, already heading towards the door. Legolas made to stop her but she continued out the door without another word.

To say the air was tense would be an understatement. Where to start, both of them questioned themselves. Who knew things could be so awkward between two longtime friends. Just wait until he meets Norui, the princess thought to herself.

"Were you ever going to tell me?" The ellon began after a long moment.

"Yes but I was never sure when. Your mother and I made an agreement to keep it secret, to tell you only if it is necessary. The name I gave you the morning Daeron died was false." She answered. The harshness in her voice had left and, though it was still odd, the prince found himself a tad more comfortable.

"What was the reasoning behind that?"

"I do not know myself. She never told me for she was in too much of a hurry." At this, the ellon nodded. It was true- the night he was first introduced to the falcon; he had been viciously attacked in the halls by an elf who desired command over the Woodland Realm. The Queen had brought Espenshade to the wounded prince and, within a matter of minutes, had healed him to near health.

"I suppose I must thank you, then, for all of the times that I used your power. I hope I did not overtax you."

"I was always happy to help you and your companions." A small grin flitted across her face and the elf found himself chuckling softly.

"Now, would you mind telling me what this power is that your father was talking about? Yesterday in Elladan's chambers, I mean."

"It is a gift, my people say, that has never been seen before in any Muru except for our ancestors of old. It can give the wielder command above anyone they choose, if used correctly." She began, closing her eyes with a scowl on her face, "But I see it only as a curse. No good has ever come out of it for me."

She took a quick glance towards Legolas who was still watching her with anxious eyes. She could not help but smile at him, despite the mood that this topic set her in.

"As you know, my power is healing those who are ill or wounded but there is more to that 'gift'. I do not know how it happens, nor why, but with this comes the ability to bring those long gone back to this world." The prince's face quickly turned into a look of both shock and disbelief. That was just too incredible to believe.

"You mean…bring dead people back to life?" He gasped.

"You say it as if it is no important matter." Espenshade muttered and the golden haired elf quickly shook his head.

"No, that is not it at all! I am just trying to make sure I understand you correctly." He retorted hurriedly.

"You do."

"Oh." Almost immediately, a thought popped into his head and he felt his heart darken towards the lady. He could tell she sensed it from the sudden nervousness that emanated from her body, "So that means you could have saved my Naneth and my Gwador."

"I should never have said anything." Espenshade muttered bitterly as she jumped up and stormed towards the door, her fists clenched at her sides. He was no different than her father, she decided, only concerned with his own problems.

The anger in her heart flared even more when she heard him stand up and call her name, trying to apologize. And despite the situation, she could not help but smirk in self-satisfaction. With a new idea in mind, she quickly wiped the look from her face and whipped her head around with a scowl.

"Do you see now why I dislike my father so much?" She spat, "You think just the way he does- why did I not save those who you loved? It matters not how I feel about it. You have only a mind for yourself."

"You know that is not true, Espenshade." The prince pleaded, coming to his feet, "I did not mean to offend you; I just cannot help but think that they could have lived if I knew of your…ability." The smile threatened to return to the lady's lips but she held it back. If only he knew, she mused.

Her answer was a scoff, crossing her arms over her chest. She did not look towards him again until she heard him drop back down onto the bed with a defeated sigh.

"Where has the Espenshade I've known gone?" He murmured to himself. Chuckling with a soft and gentle smile on her face, she returned to his side and sat down next to him. He looked up at her with hopeful eyes.

His heart lifted, the sorrow suddenly gone, when she reached up with two fingers and twisted them around the braid in his hair, giving it a playful tug.

"She is right here by your side, my lord, as she always has been and always will be."

XXXXX

Yea, really crummy chapter. Sigh. Oh well, maybe the next one will be better. Please be sure to review!

And thank you to my wonderful beta! Thank you! glomp!

Until Next Time,

Manwathiel