I return to thee! I hoped you liked the last chapter. And to those two reviewers, thank you very much. I will address your comments at the end of the chapter. Here you go.
And yes, Sabre. That scene is in here. Bwahaha.
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Chapter 44- Setting the Stage
"We meet again, dear brother."
A whirlwind of emotions seemed to rage in his heart as he stared up at the brother he thought long gone. An almost painful feeling, it was, as his soul felt complete and safe once again. He did not whether to be happy and laugh, or to be angry and shun him away. It was impossible for this to happen, for an elf to return so soon after his death. How had this happened?
At the stunned look on the young ellon's face, Norui felt his confidence diminish. Emotions flitted across Legolas's face, and not all of them were encouraging to the Crown Prince. This was what he had feared; that his little brother would reject him, believing him false. It was inevitable. How could he have thought that he would understand? Tears began to glisten in his eyes.
"I am so sorry, Legolas." He muttered with defeat in his voice, "I am sorry I forced you and everyone else to suffer because of me."
The golden haired prince said nothing, only biting his lip tentatively, as he slowly brought two fingers up to the other ellon's face. He let them rest carefully on his cheek before moving them hesitantly under his emerald eye and trailing them down the bridge of his nose. They passed over his lips and stopped on his chin, then faltered, quickly retreating to his side again.
Norui did not pull back, letting his brother do this. If this would help him accept that he was indeed the same person, he would stand it. His gaze did not waver as Legolas brought his confused, blue eyes up to meet his. His lips opened to speak but he could not find the correct words to say. How was he supposed to react? What if this was some trick, some deception that only waited for him to let his guard down before springing into action? But he felt the same, in appearance and in spirit. He opened his mouth again but was quickly cut off.
"I know what you must be thinking, brother, but you must believe me when I tell you that I have returned to the world of the living. I was pulled back by means that I will never understand, and never hope to. Ask me not how, for I will give you no answer aside from my own guesses." He said softly and slowly, allowing it to sink it. He was willing to take as long as the young prince needed, even if it meant the rest of eternity.
A few more silent and uneasy moments passed them by yet no words were spoken. The Crown Prince grew tense under his brother's stare and he fidgeted with the ends of his sleeves.
"Please, Legolas, say something." He begged hoarsely, tears welling up in his throat. All hope was nearly lost in his heart and he took a step back in defeat, "What must I do to-"
His words were cut off and his eyes widened in shock when Legolas suddenly leapt forward, wrapping his arms around the ellon's body in a desperate embrace. His shoulders began to wrack with sobs and Norui felt a wet spot form quickly on his tunic from the tears of his brother. Immediately, he returned the embrace with his own and his spirit rose. An almost giddy-like feeling erupted in his heart.
"How can this be possible?" Legolas whispered to himself, his fingers gripping onto his brother's tunic as if his life depended on it, "There is no way you could have returned."
"But I have, Legolas, and that is all that matters." The older elf said, tightening his hold, "I just wish there was some way I could make it up to you and our sisters."
"It was not your fault, Norui, but mine. I should have come to your aid when you needed it but I didn't. My mind was blurred and I made the wrong decision."
"Do not say that, Gwador. You made the right decision; the blame cannot be placed solely on you." Norui felt his brother's breath catch in his throat before another wave of tears came forth. (brother)
"I was so confused, Norui, and terrified. Terrified of what would become of me and everyone else. In a matter of minutes, I had become the Crown Prince and possibly even the King of Mirkwood! That, in itself, struck fear in my heart." Legolas whispered hoarsely, his cerulean eyes wide yet unseeing. He then heard his brother's laughter rumble in his chest.
"You brought stress upon yourself and let your mind wander." He said, smiling, "Besides, I do not think the Valar would wish to torture Middle Earth in such a way." Legolas furrowed his brow slightly as he looked up at the ellon but found a grin upon his lips. Blinking in surprise, he allowed a smile to grace his lips.
"You have no faith in me, Norui." The smile turned into a grin as the laughter escaped the Crown Prince's chest. The golden haired prince found peace in the sound and he soon found himself joining in with his own cheerful laughter. Tears of sadness turned into those of joy and after a long moment, they separated, "I have missed you, Gwador."
"And I have missed you." They stayed like this for a moment more, relishing in the feeling of meeting once more. But Legolas quickly jumped back, the same grin on his face.
"There is so much that you have missed, brother!" He said, beckoning for him to follow, "I have found that-" Suddenly, he cut himself off and his body stiffened. The elated expression on his face faded and was replaced with a hard frown. When he looked back to his brother, he found the same tension.
"Do you feel that, Legolas?" Norui questioned anxiously, his fingers fidgeting for the sword that was missing from his side. The younger ellon nodded.
"I do." He replied darkly, "And I do not like it." The Crown Prince exhaled deeply.
"You read my mind."
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Whether it was from the words that came from his lips or the fact that words did, indeed, come from his lips that left them speechless, Tarmikos didn't know. Either wouldn't surprise him but that was the least of his worries. Only one thing ran rampant in his mind.
After so many years without words, he had finally spoken.
As if it would do anything to answer his questions, he brought his fingers to his throat and found the skin warm- warmer than it should have been. He swallowed hard but could not find the courage to speak again. He feared it was only a momentary thing and when he tried again, he would find his voice stolen once more.
He looked back up to his people and found his father staring at him with wide eyes. He noticed neither Ricamros, Espenshade, nor Leneya sitting by his side. Tension suddenly hung thick in the once joyful dining hall and no one made a move nor a sound. Judeqir, the king, shifted in his seat.
"Tarmikos," His voice cracked slightly and he cleared his throat, "My son, did you just-"
"Father, please!" The Muru called again, his voice surprising himself again, "I can feel Eruko's presence somewhere in the palace though I am not sure where he is. We must find him!"
The King shook his head quickly as if to clear his mind, "Are you sure?" He questioned, coming to a stand. Tarmikos nodded quickly.
"Positive, father."
A bolt of lightning flashed outside the large window, illuminating the frightened eyes of the Muruien people. Amongst the crowd, the silver haired prince could pick out the small group that he had helped lead to the city and he found them coming to a stand slowly, anxiousness radiating off of their bodies. But they said no word.
"Tarmikos." The king said again, catching the attention of his son, "I want you to find your brother and sister and inform them of Eruko's return." He then turned to his people, "And I want all of you to calmly return to your homes as quickly and quietly as you can. I do not want any casualties this night."
The Muruien did not speak a word as they stood from their seats. Mothers took their children's hands, and husbands ushered their families together. As if nothing was wrong, the people filed out of the room and hurried to the safety of their homes. Judeqir watched them with stoic eyes. The companions rose from their seats as well to return to their chambers but were quickly stopped by the king's voice.
"No, you will stay here." He commanded, "I must speak with you." They all glanced upon him with worried eyes and, reluctantly, took their seats. Only when all had cleared out did he turn to them again.
"What are we to do, my lord?" Elladan called to him, breaking the uncomfortable silence.
"It is time for you to fulfill the purpose of your coming." He answered,.
"But you have not even begun to lower the powers of the Muruien!" The ellon exclaimed again as his sister drew nearer to his side, "We are not ready to face him."
"I will begin immediately after you leave and you must do your best to fight him, should you cross paths. Do not wander alone and stay in your chambers; you will find safety there for a short time." He answered hurriedly, "Now go!"
And they obeyed without a moment's hesitation. Only when they saw out of the corner of their eye a magnificent light form around the king's body did they stop, but the doors were quickly shut behind them.
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"Hurry!" Elrohir called as he waited for his companions to pass him by, one by one. He mentally kept a count of how many were there every time he stopped and his heart feared that he would find one missing. When Lothron passed him by, he continued on behind her.
The doors to their chambers loomed before them and they came to a halt. All seemed reluctant to leave each other's company and they glanced between each other worriedly.
"We should go to Ricamros's and Tarmikos's room." Estel commented after a moment of quick arguing, "It is larger and has more areas to hide, if it is necessary."
"'Hide'!" Elladan scoffed, "We can take him!"
"I agree with Estel!" Melyanna argued, glaring at the ellon, "If you are that willing to fight, you can stay out here and guard the door." And without another word, the elleth stormed into the room, slamming the door behind her. Without a moment's hesitation, the others followed, leaving an irritated Elladan in the empty hall. He growled in his throat.
"Fine." He muttered and hurried after his companions.
He found that his brothers had already started scavenging the room for any weapons and the ellyth had huddled together on one of the beds. He did a quick count of them, just as his twin had, and frowned.
"We are missing Mithrandir, Legolas, and Jaimea." He commented and Elrohir looked over to him.
"Mithrandir stayed behind with the king." He replied, "And the last time I saw Legolas and Jaimea, they were in their chambers. But that was a while ago." The older Noldo nodded.
"I will check for them." He said. His brother nodded once with a small smile, then resumed his hunt.
As soon as he stepped out the door, Elladan felt his skin prick and he quickly scanned the hallway. It was only a few doors down but he felt it necessary. His feet made no sound as he traveled down the carpet and came to the prince's door. He slowly opened the door and peered inside.
His heart leapt in his throat when he saw no one in the room. Swallowing hard, he cautiously went inside and shut the door behind him. His eyes scanned the dark room closely, searching for his two friends.
He nearly jumped when another lightning bolt crashed in front of the balcony and rain pelted heavily upon the ground but, for a split second, he caught a glimpse of a person outside. He sighed deeply, loosening the tension in his body. Espenshade.
"My lady?" He called quietly as he strode to her. She did not turn to face him, her fingers gripping tightly onto the railing. He stopped at the balcony doors, "My lady, why do you stand in the rain? You will catch cold."
"I am alright." She replied so quietly he had to strain to hear her.
"But have you not heard? Eruko is in the palace somewhere. Will you come with me?" He questioned. Slowly, she looked over her shoulder at him with a small frown.
"I can sense his presence, my lord, but I will not hide from him. I need no protection."
"Even so, I would feel better if you came with me to the safety of my companions." He pleaded, "We all would." She only watched him a moment longer with sorrowful eyes before turning out the falling rain once more. Elladan rolled his eyes with an irritated growl, then turned on his heel and stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind him. Espenshade did not flinch.
Elladan hurried back into the other room, closing the door quickly behind him. He glanced around, furrowing his brow, when he found his companions no longer there. His heart began to quicken but when he heard their hushed voices, he relaxed and moved away from the door. He went towards them and what he found surprised him.
In the corner of the room, surrounded by the company, was Ricamros with his palm pressed firmly against his right eye. Beads of sweat trailed slowly down his forehead and his teeth were gritted together, as if he were in pain. Every few moments, he would make a soft moan under his breath and his body would tense.
"What is wrong with him?" Elladan asked quickly as he approached hurriedly.
"We are not sure." His twin replied, not bothering to look at him, "We didn't even know he was here until we heard him crying out a few moments after you left. He hasn't moved since." The older twin turned away from his brother back to the Muru and chewed his lip slowly with a worried expression.
"Try to carry him to the bed so he may relax. Arwen may be able to help him." Elrohir nodded quickly and motioned for his foster brother, Estel. Together, the two lifted his stiff body carefully from the floor and brought him to rest on the bed. Almost immediately, his form loosened and he took a deep sigh. The group watched with bated breath as he slowly moved his hand away from his eye, blinking slowly. The elves could sense a sudden confusion emanate from his body.
"My lord?" Arwen called softly, catching his attention. He looked up at her slowly, furrowing his brow as he gazed upon her. They all watched him curiously as placed his hand over his left eye, then remove it, only to replace it again. He took a sharp intake of breath.
"What is it, Ricamros?" Lothron questioned.
"My eye…" The Muru prince whispered, "I can see…" A strange wave of emotions flitted rapidly across his face and the companions were not sure if he were happy or upset with this new turn of events, "How is this possible?" He breathed.
"Perhaps it has something to do with Eruko's return." Estel suggested and Ricamros turned to him sharply, eyes wide.
"Eruko is in the palace?" He questioned quickly and was replied with a slow nod. He swallowed hard, "Is my father casting the spell yet?" Another nod.
Sighing heavily, the prince closed his eyes tightly as his mind raged with incoherent thoughts. His head dropped back down the pillow, ignoring the worried glances of his friends around him. This was not how it was supposed to happen…
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The two stiffened as they crept silently down the deserted hallway, the hair on the back of their necks standing on end. Navy blue eyes darted around anxiously as they searched the hall for the one they knew drew near. Quickly, one approached the other.
"Do you feel that?" Uhako whispered to her and she nodded once.
"I do, yes." Turwaithiel replied.
"Why has he come, do you think?"
"I know not."
Suddenly, a dark coldness enveloped around their bodies and they shivered, drawing near to one another. Their skin pricked on their arms as a chilling breeze blew down the corridor and tousled their silver locks, whipping wildly around them.
"I come," Hissed a dark, menacing voice, drawing ever nearer to them, "Because those who I sent seem to find it too difficult to complete their job." Both Turwaithiel and Uhako swallowed hard as a cloaked figure materialized before their wide eyes. As always, no face nor body was visible from underneath the black robes except for two oddly shaped legs.
"Please, my lord Eruko," The lady began as she slowly approached him, "We are not to blame. The time has never arisen for us to make our move. If given more time, we could do as you ask." Eruko snorted in annoyance.
"Your time has run out, lady, and I can give you no more." He answered, "You must accept the consequences."
"But my lord!" She persisted, her voice growing desperate, " Please, just one more chance! Give us one hour only and we will fulfill your commands."
An anger radiated off Eruko's body but he said nothing as he contemplated this request. Both Muru watched hopefully as their master grunted in distaste. Finally, he crossed his arms.
"So be it. I give you both one last chance and one chance only. You have an hour," Suddenly, the disguises as the two Muruien princes faded from their bodies and their eyes widened as they returned to their normal forms, "And you must do it without aid of your powers." He finished.
"But my lord-"
"No, Turwaithiel. Either accept this or else." His deep voice had a warning tone to it and the lady quickly shut her mouth, swallowing hard.
"Yes, Lord Eruko." She answered, lowering her head in a bow. An agitated sigh came forth from the cloaked being and, as quickly as he had appeared, he disappeared in a wisp of anger and coldness. Uhako stepped up slowly beside his life mate, his face stoic.
"What do you propose?" He questioned
"I'm working on it, Uhako."
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The heavy door slammed shut, shaking the paintings on the walls and threatening to tip a single vase off the night table. The frustrated elleth stormed towards the bed and cast herself upon it, screaming in anger into the comforter. Her fists curled around the sheets tightly, so tight her knuckles turned white.
"Why me!" She growled, her face still buried, "Why must he be my life mate!"
Iaurtondariel closed her eyes tightly as she willed her anger to pass. Slowly, she rolled over to her back and stared up at the ceiling with a scowl.
"He is so arrogant and idiotic! What have I done to deserve this?"
Confusion and apprehension escalated as she thought on the matter. What if she didn't want to fall in love with him and be with him for the rest of her life? There had to be some way out of it. It could not be forced upon her.
Though at the same time, she felt something growing within her heart that made her feel giddy. Something that, every time she saw the young prince's handsome face, made her feel as if she were floating on air. But as soon as it began to rear its head, she forced it back down with her anger and ignored it. It would not get the better of her, she told herself, he would not win.
But as she lay there, contemplating this, a cold feeling began to make its way up her spine and she shivered. It felt as though a darkness was wrapping around her body and it unnerved her. With a deep breath, she sat up and looked towards the door where the feeling seemed to originate.
Furrowing her brow, she stood from her seat and went to the door, peering out into the empty corridor. A chill breeze blew across her face and she inhaled sharply, quickly recoiling back into the room. She shut the door behind her, pressing her back up to the wood. Suddenly, she began to wish that her room was closer to…
She growled, "No! I do not need that Ricamros to protect me." Scowling, she searched her room until she spotted her long knife leaning in the corner. With a steady breath, she retrieved the weapon and drew it from its sheath, examining the twisting elvish letters as it gleamed in the moonlight pouring in. Her emerald eyes darted back to the door, "I can take care of myself."
Steadying her resolve, Iaurtondariel swung open the door as quietly as she good, glancing around with alert eyes down the hall. Still, not a single person roamed the corridor but she ignored it, closing the door behind her. Her senses immediately went into overdrive, ready to pick out even the slightest abnormality in the palace. As she crept down the hall, it occurred to her that she did not even know where she was going or why she left her room in the first place.
But subconsciously, she was very well aware of where she was going though she would never admit it. Her heart yearned for the protection of the one she was destined to love and no matter what she told herself, she knew she desired for just that.
Again, she felt the odd sensation creeping up her back and she looked over her shoulder with wide eyes, her fingers flexing on the hilt of her blade. Her steps quickened as she continued down the hall, the cold feeling drawing closer with each step she took.
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The hinges seemed to creak even louder in the tension that hung in the air as the two brothers entered the large room once again. Bright eyes pierced the darkness and, much to their alarm, found that Leneya had gone. Whether she had felt the same thing and had fled or from other reasons they cared not to think about, they did not know. Emerald eyes met cerulean eyes and they gave each other a quick nod before shutting the door behind them and proceeding cautiously through the room. Their fingers twitched at their sides, finding their swords absent.
They reentered the main hall and found it empty as well. The once lively and busy halls of the palace were now abandoned, filled only with coldness.
"What do you make of it?" Legolas asked his brother in a hushed voice. But Norui said nothing, only closing his eyes tightly.
He had felt this presence before and with it came memories that were not of the pleasant sort. Even though it was for a short time, he could remember the way it felt when his mind had been invaded and taken over, the helplessness he had felt. Emotions raged in his heart with only one being dominant: anger. The Crown Prince growled under his breath.
"The accursed creature who tried to kill me and all of our people is here. I can feel it; I can sense he is here." The ellon answered bitterly.
"Then there is nothing we can do." The golden haired prince replied, "The King has not yet lowered the powers as he told us he would. There is almost no way we can defeat him right now." Norui seemed to contemplate this before turning to his brother.
"Then I should like to seek out our sisters and our friends to be sure they are safe." He said and Legolas nodded before both elves hurried towards their chambers. And the whole time they ran, never once did they lower their guard.
It took only minutes for them to reach their destination and when they entered their rooms, they found them empty. The young prince furrowed his brow, "Odd." He said.
"Listen." The older ellon whispered and Legolas did so without question. Quickly, his elven ears were able to pick up on hushed voices coming from the Muruien princes' chamber. Hurrying towards it, he turned the knob and swung the door open. Immediately, all heads turned towards him and they all let out a relieved sigh. He smiled when his two sisters leapt from their spots.
"Legolas, you had us so worried!" Lothron exclaimed as she ran forward, drawing her brother in a tight embrace. The prince grinned.
"I am fine, sister." He replied.
"Where were you?" Melyanna questioned as she, too, wrapped her arms around him.
"He was with me."
Both ellyth seemed to freeze as those words were spoken by a very familiar voice. Turning away from their young brother, their wide eyes landed upon the tall form of the one that they thought they had lost. Legolas smiled to himself, carefully stepping out of the way. Though he could not see them, he knew his companions were watching with astonished eyes.
Norui smiled weakly as his sisters gazed upon him, taking in his entire form. And, much to his surprise, it was Melyanna who came forward first with tears already in her eyes. As she drew near, he closed the gap and placed his hands on her cheeks, wiping away the tears from her eyes.
"Do not cry, my sister." He said, giving her a small smile. She returned it with her own.
"Oh, Norui…" She whispered as she flung her arms around his neck, never wanting to let go.
And so he had no choice but to relate his entire story once more to his companions. Some said no words, too shocked they were to form anything coherent, but the ellon was not troubled as tears of joy began to slide down his own cheeks. They bombarded him with kisses and hugs until he felt he could stand them no more. Ricamros quickly slipped off the bed and disappeared into the adjacent room.
All through this, Legolas stood to the side with his arms crossed, a smile on his lips. He gazed upon his companions and found peace in the sight. But something was missing, he noticed, as he recounted over and over. As he continued to watch, it became apparent what was missing. His eyes widened and it felt as if his heart had stopped.
"Jaimea…"
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"I'm afraid, Lady Elf." The young girl whimpered as she clung to the elleth's hand, her whole body trembling.
"Hush, little one." She whispered, drawing her close, "Everything is alright."
Jaimea began to regret not going straight to dinner that night as she was supposed to. After she had brought the girl- whose name she discovered to be Siri- from her chambers, the Muru had spotted the fireflies just beginning to shine in the oncoming darkness. After much persuasion, the elf had finally relented and brought her outside where she watched the girl dance and laugh in the plush grass. But as she watched, she began to feel the longing of, one day, becoming a mother herself.
When dark clouds began to form over the stars and thunder boomed in the distance, Jaimea had brought Siri back in but found the dining hall empty. And what is more is that she, just like every Muruien in the city, had sensed the looming presence of one with no good intentions in his heart.
They continued down the winding corridors, the elleth's eyes darting every which way. A maternal instinct seemed to kick in without her realizing it and she squeezed the girl's hand.
"Where are we going?" The young Muru asked in a trembling voice.
"Do you remember my, um, brother?" Jaimea questioned and the girl nodded, "We are going to find him. He is a strong warrior so he can keep us safe." Siri nodded again, wiping away a single tear from her cheek.
"I'm scared." She whispered again and, with a sigh, the elleth bent down to her level.
"Siri, I promise I will keep you safe. Trust me." The elf gave her a small smile, placing a kiss on her forehead. She rose to her full height quickly but froze when her ears picked up the hurried whispers of someone approaching.
Eyes wide, she pulled the girl close and watched, waiting with baited breath. Siri gripped onto her long gown, quaking at the sudden tension that emanated from the elf.
"Lady Elf?"
"Shh."
Jaimea's heart quickened when two dark haired people enter the corridor, arguing quietly to each other. In a feeble attempt to hide, the elf pressed her body firmly against the wall and watched. She studied the two for a long moment before realization hit her. She gasped.
Turwaithiel!
The noise caught their attention and the elleth felt her stomach flip in her body when they peered down the hallway with piercing eyes. She heard the woman say something to the male before continuing down the corridor, leaving him behind. He watched her go silently before turning down the hall, directly in line with the elf and the girl.
It felt as if her body had frozen in place, despite what her mind screamed at her. She watched in fear as he came closer and closer, yet she could not move. She could not recognize him yet it felt as if she had known him from somewhere before. It felt as if her heart had stopped when he suddenly halted, staring at her and the girl with wide eyes.
Tension was thick in the air and Jaimea could tell that he was battling a war of emotions within himself. It eased her somewhat but was not sure if this was necessarily a good thing. She chewed on her bottom lip tentatively when he glanced back down the hall, then took a step towards her.
"You were one of the travelers coming from Rivendell, were you not, my lady?" He questioned quietly. The elleth was shocked at the gentleness that was in his voice but still was wary of him.
"That depends on the reason for your asking." She retorted, instinctively moving Siri behind her body. The man frowned as he came closer.
"I mean you no harm." He said, "My name is Uhako, and I-"
"Uhako!" She gasped, drawing away from him, "Then I certainly cannot believe you when you say you mean me no harm! You travel with Turwaithiel!"
"I will not deny that I do but I promise you, it was no choice of my own to engage in such evil acts. I can help you, if you let me."
"And how do you plan to do that?"
"I can keep Turwaithiel away from you." He said, "As well as Eruko, for a time." Jaimea's features quickly lit up with fear at the mention of said Muru.
"You are in league with him, too!" She whispered harshly.
"Yes, unfortunately." He sighed, running his hand down his face tiredly, "But you must understand. I was forced to do his bidding because of some idiotic bet with him. It was never my intention to hurt anyone."
Turwaithiel shouted down the corridor and Uhako winced slightly. The elleth watched him expectantly. He returned the call and, after a few moments of tense waiting, he turned back to the elf.
"Will you trust me or not?" He questioned hurriedly.
Jaimea glanced down from his eyes to the child clinging to her gown. Siri's bright eyes seemed to shine in the darkness as she gazed upon the man frightfully. The elf placed a hand on the top of her golden head, then nodded once.
"You have my trust," She answered, "Until you give me reason not to."
A wide grin came upon Uhako's lips and he nodded once though the elleth felt she could not return it. Anxiousness grew in her heart as he bowed low to her, then started in the opposite direction he came.
"Thank you, my lady. Now come, lead me to your chambers so I may see to your safety. Then I will do what I can to keep the others distracted." He said. Hesitantly, Jaimea pulled on the girl's hand and followed quickly after Uhako, wondering if she would ever regret her decision.
"What are we doing?" Siri asked softly as she struggled to keep up, "Who is he?" The elf did not respond, only shaking her head and keeping her worried eyes on the man. He seemed truthful enough but a part of her would never truly accept him.
Jaimea increased her pace to keep up beside him and led him through the winding corridors of the passage. She could hear the girl's quick breathing and knew she grew tired. But they grew close to safety and she did not want to stop, no matter what happened. All she wanted to do was be rid of Uhako.
"What have you got there, love?" A voice called behind them and both froze instantly, holding their breath. Uhako turned around quickly, forcing a smile onto his lips.
"What does it look like, Turwaithiel?" He said as the elleth turned to face the other woman, holding her breath. The lady grinned in response.
"How could I ever doubt you, Uhako?"
Jaimea cried out in shock when the man grabbed her wrist roughly and twisted her arm behind her back, pulling her against his chest. Siri was tossed to the floor none too gently, dark bruises already forming on her small body from the impact.
"Let me go!" The elleth shouted, struggling in his grasp as he brought her towards the other Muru.
"And why would I do that?" He questioned casually.
"You promised!"
He smiled devilishly, "I lied."
Turwaithiel smiled in satisfaction as she watched the distressed elf fight in Uhako's arms. At least, Eruko would not be completely disappointed now. They had accomplished something; and so easily, as well! She snickered under her breath as she turned around back down the hallway.
But before she knew what was happening, she found her feet suddenly kicked out from beneath her and she fell to the ground, grimacing when her spine cracked against the hard floor. Her eyes quickly shot open when she heard the Muru's next words.
"Run, my lady!" Uhako cried as he released the elf. She stood in shock in confusion as he jumped back from the woman on the floor, drawing a short blade and tossing it to her. Blindly, she reached for the knife and caught the sharp end in her palm. She hissed between her teeth but shook it off, running towards the girl on the floor and pulling her up. She glanced back to Uhako.
"Run!" He shouted again and she obeyed without question. The sliding of metal against sheath met her ears.
With a growl, Turwaithiel leapt to her feet. Her eyes shimmered with anger and malice as she gazed at him, her hand quickly reaching for the sword at her belt. She drew it from its sheath and positioned it in front of her in an offensive position. Uhako narrowed his eyes as he, too, positioned his sword.
"So this is where your true loyalties lie." She spat, staring at him with disgust, "I should have known."
"Turwaithiel, please, I have no desire to fight you." He retorted gently.
"We are here to fulfill our master's wishes, Uhako! He will kill us both if we do not!"
"Then let it be so! I would rather die a thousand times over than serve one more day under that creature's word!"
With an enraged cry, the lady sprang forward and crashed her sword against his. Uhako gritted his teeth against the pain that shot through his arms but he shoved her back roughly, resuming a defensive pose. Again, she came forward and he blocked her attack, dodging out of the way. Her strikes were relentless and were filled with rage and betrayal.
"Listen to reason, Turwaithiel!" He cried desperately, "This is not what you want!"
"Shut up and fight me! Stop cowering and fight!"
"Stop this madness!"
"Fight now!"
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Iaurtondariel took a shaky breath as she stopped in the middle of the hall, glancing back and forth between three different paths. All seemed dark and uninviting and she swallowed hard.
"Great." She muttered to herself while fingering the hilt of her blade, "Now where do I go?"
The cold sensation continued to grow on her and it felt as if her heart was freezing over. In an attempt to get away from this, she quickly turned down the corridor, hoping it would take her to the one she sought. She stayed close to the wall, her feet making not a sound on the marble floor.
As she rounded the corner, a dark figure came into view and she halted, pressing herself up against the wall. The slight noise caught the being's attention and it turned sharply, its eyes glancing every which way. Iaurtondariel held her breath, her face paling. She heard it hiss in its throat before it turned away and disappeared down the hall. After a few tense moments, she relaxed and went back the way she came.
"Well, that is not the right way." She muttered breathily, her body shaking from her fear. Soon, she emerged back where she was before.
Only to be shoved roughly onto her back with a cry, her blade being sent sliding across the floor. The same tall figure towered over her, almost blending in with the shadows, and she nearly screamed out from the malice and hate that spewed forth from its presence. It closed in on her as she crawled backwards, reaching blindly for her sword.
Her fingers only grazed the hilt before she was dragged back and flung across the floor by her ankle. Her head collided with the wall and her vision swam, unable to make sense of anything. A wetness formed on the back of her skull and she touched it, rubbing it in her fingers- blood.
She sensed the figure coming towards her again and she struggled to get up. She came to her knees but was sent back down with a sharp slap to her face. Groaning, she spat out the crimson liquid that now came from her mouth and she instinctively curled into a ball. Tears began to mingle with the blood.
The person's footsteps thudded in her ears and she heard a sword being drawn from its sheath. Closing her eyes tightly, she began to wonder who this person even was and why they would try to kill her. Was there even a purpose behind it, or was it just senseless killing?
But the darkness of death that she expected to come never did. Peace never came to her senses and the pain soared throughout her body. She wondered at the sudden change in plans of this person and she forced herself to look up at him.
Amidst the darkness of the hall and of the being, she saw a radiant silver light shining brightly. It stood behind the dark one with its arms held high, holding back the blow that was meant for her. She willed her fading eyes to focus on the new person and, despite the pain that coursed throughout her body, her breath hitched in her throat.
"Ricamros…"
The young Muru prince had nothing but fury and rage in his heart when he came upon the creature looming above the lady, poised and ready to strike her down. He thought not for his own safety as he rushed for it, stopping the blow before it even had the chance. Viciously, he kneed the person in the back and tossed him aside, then grabbed his own sword from his waist.
"Stand!" He called, "Stand and face me, Eruko!"
He heard him growl under his breath and, before he knew it, Eruko had flung himself upon the prince and slammed him against the wall. Ricamros gritted his teeth when his head crashed against it but he shook it off, quickly tossing him aside and returning the attack.
The blades were like blurs as they sliced through the air, and the sound of metal clanging against metal vibrated in the hall. The prince swung wildly yet with skill while Eruko, unable to throw in a blow, was slowly being backed away from the woman on the ground. He ground his teeth together in agitation before giving a mighty shove, throwing Ricamros away from him. Immediately, a red shield formed around him and he grinned back at the disheveled Muru.
"What now, prince?" He jeered, "You cannot strike me!"
Ricamros swallowed hard, wiping away a streak of blood that trailed down his cheek with his sleeve. Father still has not lowered the powers, he thought, I cannot beat him if he can just cast his barrier.
"Give up already?" Eruko laughed, "How about we just make this easy and you let me finish what I started all those years ago!"
The cloaked Muru's laughter instilled hate into the prince's heart and he yelled in anger, lashing out wildly with his sword at the protective shield. A deafening sound pulsated at the impact, causing him to shout in pain, but he did not stop with his attacks. Again and again, he struck furiously at the creature until his ears rang.
Suddenly, the shield faltered and dissolved, leaving a shocked Eruko where it once stood. Hope returned to the silver haired Muru and he increased his attacks, putting in more strength and force than he ever thought he could. The other Muru quickly blocked the blows but found himself quickly driven down. He shouted in agitation before dealing one last blow, slicing across the prince's leg and sending him to the ground. Seizing his chance, he drew up his sword and held it above the young Muru, ready to strike him down.
A force against his chest sent him sprawling to the ground. He glanced up quickly to see the lady above him, her sword held high with a deadly gleam in her eye. His eyes widened in fear as it quickly came towards his chest.
But the elleth was forced back when his barrier returned suddenly, sending her flying in the opposite direction. The shield was weak, he could sense, and he had come close to losing already. Growling in agitation, he leapt to his feet and disappeared with a flash.
All was still and silent in the hall for a long moment, except for the ragged breathing of both Muru and elf. Both bodies were battered and they felt as if all the strength in their muscles had gone. Blood had started to flow from the prince's leg and the lady's eyes had not yet completely focused.
Ricamros was the first to stir, slowly raising his head from the floor. His tired eyes gazed around for the elleth's body and, upon sight, he crawled as quickly as he could towards her.
"Iaur…" He rasped out in heavy breaths, "Iaurtondariel…" He forced himself to his knees and he leaned down over her. Her chest rose slowly yet her eyes were closed, a pain-filled expression upon her face. The Muru bit his bottom lip as he reached out to rest a hand on her cheek, "Are you alright?"
The elleth moaned softly as she fought to open her eyes. His breath was stolen away when her emerald eyes met his navy ones and he knew then that it was destined for them to always be together. With a shaky breath, he gave her a small smile, caressing her cheek with his thumb.
"Ricamros…?" She whispered, her fingers reaching out for him. He quickly took her hand in his and placed her knuckles to his lips.
"I am here." He said softly, "You are safe now." Sensing the slight tremble in his voice, she furrowed her brow.
"You are hurt." She said and he gave her a reassuring smile.
"It is but a flesh wound." He replied. He grimaced when his leg gave out from underneath of him and he fell to his side with a hiss. Iaurtondariel looked over him with worried eyes.
"You need help." She told him, tightening her grip on his hand and he shook his head.
"No, I am alright." He assured her, "But you need to rest." At these words, the elleth allowed her eyes to close and Ricamros sighed tiredly, letting his head hang. He bent to place a kiss on her forehead but was stopped when the lady took her hand from his and placed it on his cheek, smiling weakly up at him.
"Thank you, Ricamros, for saving me." She whispered and slowly brought his lips down to hers, meeting in a sweet and tender kiss. It lasted but seconds only though both felt a wave of something they had never experienced before wash through their bodies. Iaurtondariel sighed tiredly, breaking the kiss after a moment, her head moving to the side and her eyes shutting once more in sleep.
It took a few moments for the prince to fully register what had just occurred and when it did, a warm smile came across his lips. Struggling against the pain that shot through his entire body, he pulled himself to a sitting position and rested her head on his uninjured leg. His fingers trailed through her dark hair and he sighed in contentment.
"You are welcome, my Iaurtondariel."
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The shouts of the two Muruien and the clashing of their blades still rung in the halls as she ran desperately towards safety, the little girl hurrying behind her. Her brown eyes glanced every which way with ears alert. Only occasionally would she look behind her to make sure Siri still was there.
"Hurry!" She called, turning around the corner.
Suddenly, she collided with a hard form and she stumbled back, nearly falling on the child behind her. Jaimea looked up at the person quickly with wide eyes and relief washed over her. Tarmikos stood before her, gazing at her with slight amusement in his eyes.
"Thank the Valar…" The elleth whispered to herself, a smile lighting up her face. She grabbed a hold of his arm and began tugging him down the corridor she just came from, "You must help, my lord! A friend of mine needs aide in his battle." The Muru prince opened his mouth to speak but was beaten to it by a new voice.
"Jaimea!" Legolas called desperately, his cerulean eyes piercing the darkness. When he caught sight upon her, his eyes widened and he rushed forward, taking her head between his hands and planting a kiss on her forehead, "Where have you been!" He cried, "You had me worried!" He made to claim her mouth but she held him back, turning her head away.
"Not now, Legolas!" She said, "Turwaithiel and Uhako have returned but he now fights for our side!" The elf stared at her in bewilderment.
"The same one who we traveled with?" He questioned and she nodded hurriedly. The prince paused for a moment, contemplating his next course of action. He glanced from his lover's pleading eyes to the determined ones of the Muru prince, "Are you sure he sides with us?"
"Absolutely." She answered without falter. He nodded.
"Right. Tarmikos, you-" He turned to the other male but found him gone, already sprinting down the hall towards the sounds of the fight with his sword drawn. He let his eyes linger on the fleeting prince a moment longer before turning back to Jaimea, "We will return to our chambers and gather the others. And I want you to stay there." He said this last part with a slight warning in his tone. The elleth smiled and nodded in response, "Now go!"
Siri gasped out loud when she found herself being scooped up in the strong arms of the ellon and carried quickly away down the hall, her body bobbing with every step he took. The sound of three swords battling echoed down the halls of the palace.
XXXXX
Well, there you have it. Things are now in motion and hopefully, we will see the final battle next chapter. But that does not mean that we are close to the end. ;) Anyway, I hope you enjoyed the chapter.
After research, I have found that there is very little difference between the usage of 'snuck' and 'sneaked'. Really, it is a matter of personal preference, similar to the usage of 'theatre' and 'theater'. I tend to spell that word 'theatre' but that does not make it wrong, nor right. Famous authors- such as George Stade, Anne Tyler, and Garrison Keillor- have also used 'snuck' in their own writings, including in their narratives. Yes, I have been informed of the lack of clarity in some areas and I intend to revise later on, thanks. And yes again, I know they have different colored eyes in reality. But this will be explained in future chapters.
There is a reason the wargs did not kill him and it will also be explained in future chapters. And I know, many of the characters could go but it is sort of too late for that, is it not? Thanks for the compliments.
And those were not replies to reviews. whistles
Anyway, thanks to all who read and reviewed the previous chapter. I hope this one managed to reach your expectations. And many thanks to my beta, Ty. :) Everyone wish her a Happy Birthday!
Until Next Time,
Manwathiel
