Arial

Chapter 12

Saruman, the Benevolent

by Bethuviel

Disclaimer: The estate of J.R.R. Tolkien owns all recognizable characters from the works of literature encompassing The Lord of the Rings. I have received no compensation for any work I have written and/or published on this site.

Author's note: All reviews, whether critical or applauding are appreciated.

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Pausing with his questioning, Saruman stepped back from Arial. She had spoken the magical word, Rivendell. He could not allow her to know of his alliance with Mordor, yet he had to pry as much information as possible from her. He knew he had to step lightly.

"Did you like your visit in Rivendell?" He queried her.

"Not particularly. They wanted to hold me prisoner, though they promised to help me get back home." Her eyes were glassy and her face slack. "They threw me into a river in the end and told me to leave before Lord Elrond commanded me drowned."

It was Saruman's turn to be surprised. He had heard the elves in Rivendell to be hospital, especially to damsels. They were secretive, but never hostile to the innocent or distressed. Confused, he pressed further, "Why did the elves throw you into the river?"

"I called Lord Pointy Ears a coward. It infuriated him." Saruman's eyes widened like saucers. He knew of Elrond's reputation, and as much he hated to admit it, Elrond was no coward; his reputation and deeds from the Battle of the Last Alliance had spread throughout Arda. He felt that girl was lucky to be alive after such incredible slander.

"I am sure you had good reason, especially since they were going to hold you against your will…" He let the statement hang in the air, patiently waiting for a response from her. After several moments, he spoke again.

"I also am persecuted by the elves, necessitating my stronghold. I fear they seek to destroy the last hope of this good earth. I am the protector of all peoples, ensuring freedom for all who draw breath on Arda."

He circled around her, stopping just behind her, and leaned closer to her ear. "Arial, you must help me. You must help the peoples of these lands. Tell me, do the elves plan to move an army against me?"

Arial stood, hypnotized by his deep voice that moved like soothing waves throughout her mind and consciousness. She felt the lull and did not posses the desire or will to resist. "Tell me, Arial, did you see or hear anything that would help me defend the people of this earth…please help me as I have helped you by providing you a safe haven…"

Yes, she had to help him. She searched through her memory of her encounters with Rivendell. They had wanted to hold her prisoner, supposedly for her own protection. There were visitors expected. One had told her. Moreover, there were of course the demons that were on the other side of the river that had tried to capture her. Then the demons had captured her, bit off her finger and whipped her back….Maybe they were sent by the elves….That was the army of the elves. Those things had not shown up until she was with the elves.

"Yes, they are mounting a great army for what purposes I do not know. They are without mercy and cruel. And were expecting more guests." She felt good that she was actually able to help this wonderful white wizard. It was a good thing he had found her, had helped her, and had saved her from the elves and their army. She swayed on her feet under his trance.

Saruman drew a quick sharp breath. It was, as he had feared. Lord Elrond was persuading the race of men and elves to march against him. No doubt with that worthless traitor, Gandalf at his side. He would be forced to do as the Dark Lord Sauron wished, and build an army before never witnessed by any of Arda; an army that could move during the day as well as night, with great endurance and strength. His mind raced to work possible solutions to his problem.

Arial sighed pulling Saruman from his thoughts. The problem standing before him had to be addressed first, and quickly. If the continuum collapsed, there would no worlds for anyone to worry over, including his.

"Come Arial, let us sit here and refresh ourselves." He released her from his hold.

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Arial woke up and looked at the old man standing before her holding a tray piled with food.

"Can we just eat here; I don't think I could take another step without falling where I stand?" Her mouth watered and her stomach growled loudly. She hoped he did not hear her body begging for the food that he held not a foot away from her.

He smiled at her, and without pretense, they sat on the floor in the middle of her room. He ate sparsely, while she did not attempt to hide her appetite.

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AN: Hope you enjoyed. Will update soon. Leave me a review to let me know your thoughts!