I am infinitly sorry for not updating! Everything has been so crazy here! School has been so time consuming and the countless things I had to get done…Arg. No matter though! I have a week off for Thanksgiving break! Yay! I can get out a couple more chappie's this week, so no need to fear about long update time! Once again, I'm so sorry to keep you waiting. I know the feeling wanting someone to update but it's almost like they refuse to lol. No more! I promise!
Review please! They're the only thing that keep me writing.
Personal responses can be found at the bottom.
Thanks for reading!
Without further ado:
A Stolen Love (And yes, it is a play on words, can you figure it out?)
Chapter 6: Prisoner of SortsAriel felt ill. Golden blonde heads surrounded the women, both an unearthly and intoxicating sight. They each had deadly blades drawn, a stern expression alighting their features. Silently, an elf with cat-like, elongated steps pulled Haldir up from his previous sitting position and freed him of his bindings. The marchwarden flexed his wrists and glanced at Ambar.
"Hannon Le," Haldir murmured. "I was beginning to worry," he said, a miniscule smile playing about his lips.
Smirking, Ambar gestured toward Ariel and the troop of women behind her, being held in place by weapons and fierce- looking warriors.
"What shall we do now Commander?" he questioned., voice never rising above a whisper.
Haldir looked toward the Thief Queen and, raising his voice so she could hear, said "We must take them to Minas Tirith and ensure that they receive the proper punishment for their crimes." Suddenly, the image of Ariel swaying her hips invaded Haldir's senses and he fought to retain his famous self control.
Sobering, Ariel tried to move toward the Marchwarden only to be blocked by two gorgeous elves. Peeking her head in between their shoulders, Ariel fixed Haldir with a penetrating stare.
"Master elf, I pray you, please hear me out," she pleaded.
Keeping his mask of indifference, Haldir imperceptibly nodded his head.
Swallowing hard, Ariel spoke. "Denethor is only interested in my capture. I am the only one who deserves to be persecuted. These women have done nothing to warrant a punishment. Let them go. Take me in their place."
Haldir mulled the information over in his mind.
"This would hurt the integrity and the reputation of the elven race, Lady Taliwen, and that is something not even I can override," he commandingly explained.
Fearful eyes scanned the rigid bodies of the elves as the group of elves realized their predicament.
Ariel shook her head, on the verge of crying.
"Don't you understand?" she whispered. "If they go back they will die, or worse!" She collapsed on the ground.
Haldir silently signaled for his troops to part as he came to rest beside Ariel. Crouching down, he placed his fingers under her soft chin, looking deeply into her eyes. Soon, he felt liquid stream down his calloused hand. Tears.
"Don't you understand?" Ariel questioned, her vocal chords sounding strained and tired. "These are human lives, please, I beg of you, do not let them be so carelessly wasted." Her eyes bored into the Marchwarden's, desperation shining clearly through.
Haldir's mask broke for an instant as a sigh escaped from his mouth. He looked at his soldiers, reading their expressions and knowing what he had to do. It was true, Denethor only seemed interested in Taliwen.
Stone countenance back in place, Haldir looked to the Thief Queen.
"You must promise to come along compliantly, no fighting us or trying to escape. If you agree, we shall let your group go free and tell Denethor that you scattered. Do we have a deal, Lady Taliwen?"
Ariel's chest heaved with relief as she nodded her acquiesce to the Marchwarden. Her friends would be safe.
"You have five minutes to say your farewell's," Haldir commanded, eyes scanning the cave and its occupants.
Ariel's eyes glazed over as she looked at everyone, blocking the elves out of her sight.
"I guess this is truly the end. Lead a good life ladies. Be happy," she commented softly, the sound echoing throughout the cave.
"Ariel you can't possibly be serious!" yelled Dialan. "You can't leave us!"
"She has to sacrifice herself so that we may live," said Tiera, her voice choking as tears cascaded down her puffy cheeks.
Each woman took a turn in hugging Ariel, too many emotions bottled up inside them to speak of.
"We shall never forget you Ar-" Rarill's eyes widened as she realized her mistake, "Taliwen. We shall never forget you, Taliwen."
"We won't stand for this you know, my Queen," Laurelin squeaked.
Ariel looked at her group sternly. "In no way will you try to rescue me. You shall certainly be killed. I love you all, and go with my blessing," she murmured. As an afterthought, she added, "And, if you ever find Bow, please take of him."
The women nodded, each crying with silent intensity.
Swiftly, the Marchwarden came up behind Ariel, binding her wrists. He led her out of the cave followed by his companions. Looking back one last time, Ariel bade her friends farewell.
"Namarie," she stuttered.
Haldir quirked an eyebrow. "Pedich edhellen?" he asked. He accent was atrocious but still he was surprised.
Ariel gave him a quizzical look as they left the safety of the cave.
"Do you speak elvish Lady Taliwen?" Haldir questioned.
"Oh, no. I know odd words and phrases, milord."
Haldir gave a silent inclination of his head as the troop marched through the forest. Once they rounded a corner, six of the most breath- taking horses that Ariel had ever seen appeared. Quickly, each elf mounted their animal, except Haldir.
"Lady Taliwen, you shall ride with me. I will hear no complaints from a human who is now a prisoner," he coldly said.
Ariel didn't respond as she was hoisted onto a jet- black steed. She felt Haldir slip in behind her. Whispering some unintelligible phrase to his horse, he went to the front of the group before taking off.
The Queen of Theieves had never felt so excited and uninhibited. Not even with Bow had she experienced such pure unadulterated freedom like this. Haldir acted like a solid wall, muscle skin protecting lest she fall back. His golden locks tickled her face and, she noted with a bit of embarrassment, that their hair was almost the same in length.
Haldir was having an inner battle with himself. The feeling of Taliwen in front of him, encased by his arms, was unnerving. Just one casual slip of his hand and he could be touching…
He silently scolded himself, reigning in his now fragile mentality and thinking of other topics.
Soon the novelty of the ride wore off, and Ariel was left to contemplate her fate. She had done the right thing, she knew, but that still did not deter her mind from the gruesome punishment she would most likely receive. The thought sent shudders up and down her spine, and the Marchwarden took notice of her condition.
Suddenly, Ariel felt something poking her in the side.
Hadlir's knife!
He had forgotten to take it back from her. Perhaps she could feign illness and slip away…
Twas no good, she would surely be caught and the deal would be annulled.
The forest flashed by in brilliant greens and golds, yet Ariel made the atmosphere around her dismal.
Finally, Haldir was forced to stop Astaldo, refusing to let this human bring down his mood. As he was opening his mouth to berate her, she beat him to the punch.
"Master elf, I know that I am in no position to make requests, but if I may, please give me one last night of freedom. One last night to smell the forest and pluck the grass. One more night to say goodbye to my home," she asked in a small voice. "I really am sorry for taking you hostage, but surely you realize that it was the only option I had left. Please, let me have this."
Wise beyond her years she may be, but at this moment she sounded like a lost child forever searching for its mother.
Strangely, Haldir knew the feeling that this human was exhibiting. Years ago, right after he had become Marchwarden, they were ambushed by a group of orcs. Well, ambushed wasn't exactly the correct word to describe it. It was more like, outnumbered, because they knew the enemy was coming, just not how many of them would be present.
Haldir remembered the pain on his warriors' faces, and how when he became injured from a slash to the chest, all he could think about was Lothlorien, and how he would give anything to be back there, inhaling its sweet Eleanor scent and lying back in its grasses. Eventually, the elves defeated the despicable orcs, but it was not without casualties.
Coming back to the present, Haldir looked down his nose at the odd woman known as Taliwen.
Not breaking his icy mask, Haldir spoke "One night, Lady Taliwen, and you shall be bound for the duration of the period. This is the last and final gift you shall receive. You are lucky I give you anything, human, for you do not deserve it. And, no tricks." He openly glared at the woman.
Ariel could have cried. She would have one more night to spend with the forest that she had so lovingly ruled over.
"Thank you," she whispered, voice full of reverence. Haldir signaled for his company to dismount and sent Trian to build a fire.
Ambar led Haldi off to the side of the group.
"Man carel le?" he questioned.
Haldir graced his comrade with a knowing stare. "I know it goes against your wishes my friend, but believe me, human or not, I must grant this last request."
"So, you must play the role of heroic messenger Captain? Why not leave the job to some one else?" the anger in Amber's voice was evident. He desperately wanted to get home to Lorien.
"Do not question me soldier!" Haldir yelled vehemently. He was used to strict obedience.
Ambar took on a frightened expression and slowly backed away. Haldir in a bad mood was never good.
Soon, the sun had set and most of the elves had decided to walk the path of waking dreams. Quesse was out patrolling, and Haldir had opted to stay awake and watch the Queen of Thieves.
Her eyes remained transfixed on the fire. Reveling in the warmth of the open flames, Ariel noticed Haldir staring at her. She failed to place the look in his eyes before it disappeared behind a stony exterior.
The silence was unbearable, even for Haldir. Finally, he was forced to make conversation.
"Tell me, Lady Taliwen, how is it that you started down this traitorous path of stealing from others?" he questioned. In all actuality, it came out harsher than he had intended.
Ariel was slightly bemused that he still called her Taliwen, but his question made her scowl.
"You know nothing about me, so do not presume that my path was so 'traitorous' as you put it. You need not know my life story, Marchwarden," she seethed.
Narrowing his eyes, Haldir began to grow slightly perturbed.
"You are here under my good graces, my lady, and I expect you to answer my questions," Haldir said, feeling like grinding his teeth. He tried to think of another subject when a thought struck him.
"Why is your steed called 'Bow'?" he asked.
Smiling slightly, Ariel faced the Marchwarden.
"I first met him inside the city. He was within the soldier training grounds and the trainers were trying to tame him. Archery practice had just started and my cousin was hoping to prove his skill, and I come along for support. There was a teacher there, Lord Ulmagen, I believe his name was, and he was as much hated as he was feared. Anyway, Bow had just reared on his masters and decided to run and cause havoc on the practice fields. My cousin was in the process of aiming and releasing his arrow when Bow came running past him, throwing off his balance. The arrow was launched, and its course lead it straight into Lord Ulmagen's backside!" Ariel laughed loudly, waking the other elves around her.
Haldir's lips quirked slightly.
"Of course," Ariel continued," he was in the healers wing for a week. I immediately took a liking to such a daring horse and had to buy him. My cousin gave me his bow, saying it was cursed, but I knew better. It was a miraculous object. So, that is how Bow received his name."
"Interesting," Haldir said. Hm, so the Lady Taliwen must have been slightly well off to have enough money to buy a horse. Perhaps a woman of the court? As he was about to ask her another question, he realized that she had fallen asleep.
Her head was propped against a tree trunk, and her hands were still bound behind her back. It did not look comfortable, but Haldir could not help it.
Wait.
Was Haldir actually concerned about a human? What was going on?
Studying her more closely, Haldir noticed something bulging out of her side.
Stepping like a predator about to pounce on its prey, he slowly made his way to the Theif Queen. She was obviously in deep sleep. Small snores escaped her as Haldir raised her shirt a little, revealing creamy white skin, with his dagger shining brightly against it.
Fool! How could he forget?! He must have been too caught up in the moment, but it was still no excuse. He carefully removed the weapon from its resting place and tucked it into his boot. He found himself touching her skin, feeling the soft warmth on the pads of his fingers.
Suddenly, he drew his hand away as if he had just been bitten by a snake. What in Eru's name was going on? He had been with elleths more beautiful than words or songs, yet he was more tempted by this filthy human than any other female he had ever encountered.
He swiftly moved back to his seat, glancing around making sure no one saw the transaction. Running his hands through his hair, Haldir let out a shaky breath.
Ariel had been awoken when she felt fingers upon her skin. She feigned sleep, trying to grasp her surroundings. But, the feeling dissipated in an instant, and it left her feeling cold, an empty shell. Too tired to open her eyes, she fell back into a dreamless sleep, magical fingers roaming over her…
Waking as the sun glowed upon her face, Ariel stretched languidly. Then, the events from the past few days hit her, and she felt terribly sick. Turning, she retched into the nearby bushes. This is not good.
Haldir had already packed away all of the supplies and was just about to retrieve Taliwen.
Trying to stand, Ariel lost her balance and was pitched forward. Fortunately, a pair of strong arms was there to catch her. Looking up, she was greeted by Haldir's mask of cold indifference. He pulled he upright and set her on the horse. The other elves were already mounted. They seemed to be able to read each other's movements perfectly.
Amazing.
When she felt the Marchwarden climb on behind her, her heart lifted. It was foolish to think he would have the slightest interest in her, but the purely physical passion that she felt for him was getting stronger by the minute as he sat behind her.
The hours went by without distraction, and by midday they were in view of the blazing white gates of Minas Tirith.
Numerous guards stood at the front, restricting visitors. A white tree decorated their armor weapons hung at their belts.
Haldir took the lead, stopping in front of a soldier.
"State your purpose," he gruffly said.
Haldir turned his head, no doubt indicating his pointed ears. "I have captured the Thief Queen and request to turn her over to Lord Denethor."
The guard was already vigorously shaking his head in apology.
"I am sorry Master elf, you and your company have permission to enter."
The gate creakingly accepted the new occupants and they rode deep into the city. The stairs were many but the horses made it up easily. Ariel felt a deep grief pervade her soul. She would never see Bow again.
All to soon, the steeds were given to a stable hand and Ariel found herself being led to the throne room.
Entering, the surroundings turned a chilling cold. Denethor looked up from his Steward's seat, his eyes gleaming in joy.
"So, you have finally been caught, thief," he slithered out. He met them half way and put his hand under Ariel's chin. "Tis about time, I'd think," he spoke, mouth smelling of dead rats and overipened tomatoes.
Ariel spit into his face.
It was only fitting, after all.
She received a slap for her efforts.
"Guards!" Denethor called. "Take her away from my presence!"
Ariel was dragged away, her last sight was of an icy Marchwarden who had a look of anguish in his eyes.
"I thank you for capturing the criminal, Lord Haldir. Long has she been plaguing the forests of Gondor," he said.
"Twas our pleasure, My Lord. Unfortunatly, we were not able to apprehend the other women…" Haldir explained.
Denethor waved off the statement.
"They are of no importance," he sneered.
Snapping his fingers, a servant brought forth the alliance contract. Denethor quickly signed and handed the quill to Haldir, who mirrored the same action.
"It is done then. May our alliance be prosperous!" he gleefully said.
Haldir merely inclined his head, forcing a strangled smile.
"Marchwarden, it is required of you to stay for her trial, I am afraid. We need the first- hand account of her captors. It is already set for tomorrow, so you will only have to stay for one more day. Surely you can manage?" Denethor asked.
"Of course, My Lord," Haldir said, trying not to shatter his perky countenance.
"Splendid!" yelled Denethor. "You rooms have already been prepared. Have an enjoyable evening."
Haldir had been lying in his bed for more than two hours, wide awake. He couldn't get the image of her out of his mind.
Soon, he found himself exploring the structure until he came upon the dungeons. Cautiously, he entered. He was halted by a guard midway in, but he was hastily allowed passage as they learned of his identity. He knew they would not let him stay down here forever, so he had to make this last visit count.
What he even going to ask her had not occurred to him.
Beggars and murderers littered the cells, cramming into ever crevice.
He found Taliwen in a cell by herself, her head resting on her knees.
"Lady Taliwen?" he said, looking down at her.
Her eyes had sunken into her skull in the few hours that she had been returned to Minas Tirith. She moved with an almost ghost- like quality.
"Marchwarden? What are you doing down here?" she asked, surprise evident in her voice.
"I wish I knew myself. Tell me, what were you before you became a thief?" he posed the question gently. He didn't know why he chose to say it, but nevertheless, he was curious.
Ariel's eyes took on a haunted expression. "I suppose you will find out tomorrow, master elf. I need not have to relive is twice in twenty four hours."
Haldir licked his lips, asking "What will happen tomorrow, after the trial?"
A hollow laugh escaped Ariel. "I will be executed, of course."
Suddenly, the sound of footsteps drew near.
The guards.
"Lady Taliwen, I am sorry. I will try to explain how you came along willingly, but I fear I cannot do much," Haldir said coldly, trying not to let his emotion show.
The footsteps became louder.
"I do not expect you to defend me, elf. There is no need. This is my fate," the last word came out as a sob.
What happened to her being the fearless Queen of Thieves? Ariel was ashamed.
She stood up and got as close as she could to the bars.
Before Haldir could react, she had pulled him to the cold, rusted bars. Hastily, she kissed the golden- haired elf and pushed him back as the guard finally found them.
They both were flustered, and Haldir was extremely disoriented.
"By the way, Marchwarden, my name is Ariel," she said, catching her breath as Haldir was escorted down the corridor.
------------------------------End of Chapter
Next Chappie: Ariel's trial and sentence. Will explain all about her shadowed past. Very good drama and action next! Yay!
Personal responses:
Haldir's Heart And Soul: Thanks for being there from the beginning I really appreciate it. Sorry for the long wait!
Falon: Hm, will Ariel die…I suppose you have to specify. As in, die in battle, or in the sense of her life running out? ::grins evilly::
Draegon Fire: Oh yes, will Haldir be surprised when he finds out the truth! Twists and turns my friend, so many twists and turns…
Blueforest: Thanks for commenting! Glad ya like!
Zeraie: Sorry for the long update time! Won't happen again! They will find out about her stealing to help the poor next chappie.
Sorry if I missed more, but it's nearing midnight here, and I'll be sure to get EVERYONE in the next chappie.
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Thank you,
-Blade Eclipse