RPG: 'The flight from Dol Guldur' (Go to OCC to join)

[Onilalle]

The Flight from Dol Guldur


Reminder: please write your entries in the PAST tense and from your character's point of view. (eg I, me, we, etc.) 'Twists' in the story are always welcome (not too extravagant tho)- we'll have to deal with it! ;)
Ok, let's get this thing started!

King Thranduil

The night was still and cold as I stepped out onto the balcony. It must have been late; no stir could be heard anywhere- all was quiet around the palace. The stars seemed veiled in cloud tonight; it was like this most nights at this time. I wrapped my robe tightly around myself as I sat myself down on a chair... the air was growing ever more chilly, and the days had grown shorter.
I was in a very contemplative frame of mind tonight. My younger son Legolas had been slightly out of character these past few weeks, and he refused to answer me whenever I attempted to console him or ask him what was on his mind. Having said this I could not help but sense something in the atmosphere of the palace... many of my company had been too quiet over this same period of time. What it was I could not quite comprehend; there was a conspicuous difference in the way my people acted these days.
However, I could feel that a dark power was slowly increasing in Dol Guldur; even though Sauron had passed at most one thousand years ago. That was when my father, Oropher, had been slain at the foot of Orodruin- Mount Doom as men call it. Since the grevious day that my father, the king of Greenwood, had fallen to his death, I had been given rule over the realm, and since then I had kept it safe. Yet the dark Lord's minions had stayed on after he was defeated, never showing sign of power nor showing even themselves. At least until now.
For I had noticed a shadow; a great, sinister shadow, that was gradually looming over my kingdom and encompassing all in its path in dullness. Men had started to call it Mirkwood instead of Greenwood. They, at least, seemed to have noticed it as well as I. The days grew dark and short, and a coldness that even elves could feel was coming over us. Could this be the minions of Sauron, the Nazgul, taking their wrath once again? I wondered if this would at all be possible...

I heard a sudden, small knock at my chamber door. Turning around, I looked across my darkened bedroom and said clearly;
"Who's there?"

[Melathwen]

Raniean, Trelan and I wandered in the woods. It was growing dark; we should return soon, but none of us were paying much attention to that. We had spent a happy day on the archery range, improving our aims and even teaching some of the small elflings the basics of archery. When we tired of shooting, we turned to knives, and had several sparring matches, which were avidly watched by the younglings while their teachers tried futilely to get them back to work. Trelan is short, though that gives him the advantage and once again, Ran and I underestimated his skill. He may be short, but he is not weak and not unskilled, and he managed to beat us both. I will have to train harder if I want to beat him; he can nearly always beat me, or even Ran and I together!

We weren't far from the Palace, since we hadn't been walking long and we wanted to stay close. We made a slow circuit round the walls, just out of shouting distance. If we got into trouble, which the three of us are good at, we would be alone, there would be no one to come to our aid. We laughed as we walked, there had been little to laugh at in the years when my father began to rule. It was hard for him; Oropher had been a wonderful ruler and Greenwood had been sadly lessened in the Last Alliance, with many great warriors falling. Thranduil had had to build almost a whole new army from the younger elves who had been forced to reamian behind. The older soldiers had become teachers for the younger, and we now have sizeable patrols in our woods.

Suddenly, I noticed that the forest had fallen silent, which was most unusual. It was dusk, and night creatures should have been stirring, but there was nothing, no sound. I motioned to Raniean and Trelan to stop and listen, and then we heard it; the heavy footfall that could mean only one thing - orcs. I listened closer, and could tell that there were few, we could easily take them. Leaping lightly into a tree, I pulled my bow off my back and nocked an arrow, Ran and Trel following my lead. We waited silently, while the orcs drew closer. They entered the glade we had been in, and I quickly drew, aimed and released, watching to be sure the arrow found its mark even while nocking and drawing another. I released that, too, which was followed by two more from Raniean and Trelan, and four orcs lay dead. That left only ten, and the three of us fired again. I missed, but another two beasts fell dead, arrows through their eyes. Another three arrows, and another three beasts unmoving on the ground. The orcs that were left had noticed where the arrows came from and grouped themselves under our tree, preventing us from shooting them. Rising, I ran lightly along the brach and leapt into the next tree, fired another arrow. Raniean and Trelan were slower, though, and the orcs began to climb their tree. They weren't able to run across the branch, so I jumped out of the tree and landed in a crouch, bow already on my back and knives in my hands.

The four orcs around their tree hadn't noticed me, so I snuck up on them and slit a throat. That alerted the others, though, but it was what Raniean and Trelan had needed. Drawing their knives, they leapt from the tree and the odds were even, one on one. Each of us picked an orc, and I landed with the biggest. I dodged his thick blade and skipped from his heavy-handed thrust, then drew in close, under his guard and drew a long slash down his arm, causing him to drop the blade. With no weapon, it was easy for me to slit his throat and he joined the rest of the beasts on the floor. I wiped my knives on the grass and sheathed them just and Raniean slew his orc, and Trealn slew his just as Raniean had sheathed his blades. I had a shallow graze on my hand where I hadn't whipped it away fast enough, Raniean had a gash on his cheek and Trelan a stab in his stomach. Whipping my cloak off, I tore some strips from the bottom and bound Trelan's gash while Raniean wiped away the blood from his face.

'Are you all right, Legolas?' Trelan asked me as I cleaned his wound. I nodded, and finished tying the bandage. With unspoken agreement, Raniean and I supported Trelan on each side and half-carried him back to the Palace. There was almost instant uproar when we reached it; healers came running and took Raniean and Trelan away, and would have taken me, too, except that I insisted I see my father first.

Reaching his chambers, I entered the outer room and crossed the semi darkness. The door to his bedchamber was closed, so I knocked softly. My father asked who was there; instead of answering I entered, closing the door gently behind me before turning to my father's angry face, which softened when he saw it was only me. A dribble of blood ran off the back of my hand, along a slender finger and dripped onto the floor.

'You're hurt!' he cried, trying to take my hand and look at it. I pulled away from him, saying it was nothing, and went out onto the balcony, where he had previously been sitting. I looked up at the stars, and sought the light of Gil-Estel. There it was, shining as brightly as ever. Sighing, I turned to my father and began the explanation.

[Onilalle]

(Fantasic start, Melathwen!)

I stood up as my fair-haired son entered the room. His cheeks were slightly rosey, as if he had just been outside in the cold, and he was a little out of breath. I noticed the sheath of one knife sticking out at the side of his back.
"Ah, Legolas..." I said mellifulously, staring at his windswept hair, "Have you been practising all this time? It is late."
My son looked up at me and nodded. I looked deep into his azure eyes. He was still breathing quite heavily. Somehow I could tell there was not a lot of truth in that.
"Legolas, there has to be a reason to be out this late." I added. "The elflings have gone to their beds now..."
"We lost track of time." muttered Legolas. I raised an eyebrow. My son looked away uneasily as I scanned him through narrowed eyes- I could always tell when there was something wrong.
"You saw something, didn't you Legolas?"

[Melathwen]

'Actually, killed something is a more accurate description,' I muttered. My father was not going to be pleased when the story came out, but come out it would. 'Ran, Trel and I were walking in the woods, and we did loose track of time... or not pay attention to it.' I said the last under my breath, my father was not intended to hear it but I think he did, anyway. 'We were just outside calling distance of the palace, when a group of fourteen orcs came upon us. We shot all but three before we had to fight with out knives, but we killed them all. None of us was seriously hurt.'

I shut my eyes, not wanting to see the expression on his face. I knew he would be angry, and I thought I was ready to absorb his anger. He could be deadly when he focused his whole anger on you, I knew from bitter experience. I readied myself, but not enough.

[Etaina]

I paued uncertainly in the doorway, biting my lip with hesitant curiosity as Legolas conversed gravely with his father and I, the sole outsider pondered inwardly as to whether to intercede. I had just come on from scouring (as I always did) in the woods, a solitude of perpetual bliss and yet from the tones the elves before me used, i deduced something else: something hidden.
Switching my gaze to King Thranduil I saw the anger brightening his eyes yet was completely perplexed as to why yet stale tension weakened the air about them and indeed me as I poised on the brink of muted understanding. Should I procede? I was after all delivering a valid message from my father but was it really of noteable conciquence?
" My lord" I called gently checking my gaze as it slid to the elves before him ablaze with vivid question.
" Excuse my intervention: but I heared raised voices and have a message to deliver from my father - would you rather me return later?"

[Onilalle]

(Brilliant, Etaina!)

"Please my dear, I wish to speak to my son." I muttered unsteadily to the dark-haired elf outside the door. "I will definately come back to you, my lady. For now- with due respect, I beg you, please leave us for now. Your father's message will have to wait a few minutes."
The fair young elf looked alarmed, yet she nodded and slowly closed the door.
I stood there, feeling sheer rage well in my chest.
"You know very well that was NOT appropriate!" I bellowed, turning back around. Legolas looked down. "Idiot elf! ORCS! WHY DID YOU NOT COME IN BEFORE DUSK?" my voice raised to a yell.
"I told you, we lost track of time!" cried Legolas, his own brow furrowing. "We were not to know-"
"BUT YOU DO KNOW THAT I HAVE ALREADY TOLD YOU ABOUT THIS!" I shouted. "HOW DARE YOU DISOBEY ME, LEGOLAS, WHEN I HAVE SAID ABOUT THE DAYS THAT HAVE PASSED?"
My son's face contorted into an angry stare, his blue eyes glinting. "Because I can take care of myself without your overprotective shadow following me everywhere, father."
And that was it. I had no time to think about what was going on at that split-second. I took a step forwards and raised my hand, flinging it hard, straight across young Legolas' face. He took a sharp intake of breath and staggered backwards in a step, holding his cheek. I clapped my hands over my mouth and my eyes widened in horror at what I had just done. My son seemed bewildered, and he glared at me in half shock, half anger.
"Legolas..." I said quietly. My heart pounded in my chest at the mere thought of my sudden, violent reaction. I knew very well I could be extremely quick-tempered. Sometimes too much so. Dear Eru! What have I done?! I thought in my mind as Legolas' eyes began to fill with fear...

[Melathwen]

My father had slaped me. He had actually laid a hand on me. He had never done that before. Anger and hurt welled inside me. He whispered my name, but I didn't hear it. I turned my back on him and fled the room. Didn't he know how much that would hurt me? I didn't mean the physical pain, that was nothing, but after what had happened just after he had come to power... and still he slapped me. I ran as fast as I could, and I noticed that my father did not follow. Elves threw me strange looks that I paid no heed to through my tears. I banged into my room, ran to my balcony and leapt into the tree outside it. It was a long jump, but I had learned to make it a long time ago.

Once in the trees, I sped away, not touching the ground, until I reached the small talan I had built a few years ago. I sat watching the stars through the leaves, the night was beautiful, but for me, that beauty was marred by what had just happened. I sat there, watching the heavens, as tears rolled down my cheeks. Elbereth, what had he done that for? He must have known how much it would hurt me. Did he care? It wasn't long before I heard the voices of elves looking for me. I didn't answer. I had no wish to be found like this. Settling back against the tree, I fell asleep, a prayer to Elbereth running through my head.

A Elbereth! Gilthoniel!
silivren penna miriel
o menel aglar elenath!
Na-chaered palan-diriel
O galadhremmin ennorath
Fanuilos, le linnathon
nef aear, si nef aearon!

[Onilalle]

I stood rooted to the spot, my heart thumping against my ribs. Why, WHY had I taken such ridiculous action against my son? I felt utterly disgusted with myself. As Legolas left my presence at a run, I stared after him. I had never hurt my son like that, and I had never intended to. Eru knows I loved him and treasured him more than anything in the world, so why had I done what I just did? Tears welled in my own eyes at the thought of what he might feel right now, and I closed my eyes. What was happening to me? I had never done anything of that sort before- even to elves in my company. I slumped onto a nearby chair and gave an angry sort of growl, raising my hands to my face. Will he ever forgive me? I wondered gravely, contemplating the seriosity of my horrific temper. I uttered a foul curse under my breath and buried my face deeper into my hands. Then I thought; there had been a strange transformation in my personality. I had always thought of myself as reasonably calm and composed, yet I had severely over-reacted. It was as if something ominous was taking over my mind. Very peculiar.
I was half deciding to go after Legolas, but realised that the she-elf I had seen earlier had wanted to deliver a message. I sighed, contemplating whether to go and see her, but I also thought that Legolas most probably did not wish to see me right now. I got up from my seat, and began to make my way solemnly down the grand staircase to see where the young elf was. I would have to think about the strange entity in my head later on.

[Melathwen]

I woke as the first rays of the sun flooded the forest. It took a few minutes to remember why I was there instead of in my bed, but the still-untended graze on my hand brought everything rushing back. Our walk in the woods, the fight, my father's reaction... As I remembered that, tears came to my eyes. Why had my father done that? He had never shown anything like that sort of behaviour to me or any elf, so why? My confusion grew the more I thought about it, but so did the pain in my hand. It was only a light graze; it should not have hurt, but it did. The edges of the graze looked red and angry. Perhaps the orcs had used poisoned blades. I didn't think there was enough there to kill me, but what about Raniean and Trelan? Their wounds had been much worse than mine.

I really didn't want to return to the Palace, but I had to tell the healers that their wounds would be poisoned. Rising gracefully to my feet, I looked around. The forest was no more silent or loud than it should be, which meant nothing was near. Throwing my senses as far wide as they would go, I couldn't sense any elves, so my mind was made up. Running along the boughs of the trees it took only a few minutes for me to reach my bedroom window. I swung into it, then crept to the door, listening. I could hear nothing. The only ones likely to be up for a while yet were servants, it would be another hour before anyone else thought of rising. I opened the door soundlessly and crept out into the corridor. Making my way swiftly to the healers' rooms, I tried to make as little sound as possible, and luckily I met no one.

Entering the healers' rooms was strange. Normally you noticed the change from the bustling corridors to the quiet of the rooms, but not now. I looked around, but nothing had changed. I followed the corridor around until I heard Raniean's voice.

'Why can't I see Legolas? He's the reason I'm alive!' Raniean's voice floated out to me, and I followed it into a room where he and Trelan were arguing with the healer. Apparently, the healer did not notice me enter, with his back to the door, for he answered Raniean calmly while trying to restrain him. Another was doing the same for Trelan on the next bed.

'The Prince is not here, but I will tell him you want to see him when he returns,' he said. He looked in surprise to Ran and Trel, who had, upon seeing me, stopped struggling. They are both notorious for being terrible patients, and doubtless the healers had not anticipated winning so easily.

'I am here, Raniean, Trelan. How are you feeling?' I asked them. Both healers whirled, surprise and shock etched on their faces. When they recognised me, both bowed, but I motioned them upright. It always annoys me when people bow to me.

'Well, apart from feeling like I was trampled by a herd of orc, fine,' Trelan bluffed, but his face belied his words. I could see that his wound was paining him, and he had one hand clutching the bandage while trying to prevent the other from seizing his sheet in a death grip. Raniean was little better.

'Their wounds are poisoned,' I said, much more calmly than I felt. The healers stared at me. 'I was grazed. It is nothing, but the wound is angry and red such as no graze has a right to be. The orc blades were poisoned.' Now I had Raniean and Trelan's eyes on me, as well. I shifted uncomfortably, always uneasy to be the centre of attention. When I turned to leave, however, I became infinitely more uncomfortable. My father was stood in the door, and from the look on his face he had heard every word I just said.

[Onilalle]

I gazed into Legolas' eyes, yet I did not dare turn my anger on him again. He looked very uneasy, and he looked sraight down. His stare was icy and full of fear as his eyes were set on the floor. I sighed and closed my eyes for a brief moment.
"Legolas..." I mumbled. "I am alarmed. Why did you not tell me of this?"
My son did not take his eyes away from the ground, but I could have sworn he was muttering under his breath. I stepped up to him, but he took the same step backwards. Eru... I had really done it.
"Come with me." I said softly to him. "I need to speak with you."
"So you are still furious with me?" snarled Legolas, his angered gaze flying up to my face. I took a deep breath.
"No, son." I murmured. "No, I simply wish for you to walk with me a while. There is much I need to tell you."
"Obviously." said Legolas, his brow furrowing. He looked hurt, and I had to console him. There was no way I could stand to have him holding a grudge against me.
"Legolas, I know I... look, here is not the place to discuss this. Please, come with me."
Legolas gave me a last glowering look and hesitantly followed me out of the room. We walked swiftly in silence out of earshot of the others, never looking at each other. When we came to a secluded corridor, I slowed my pace and stopped. Legolas looked up at me. A great lump hung in my throat and I felt the remourse grow in my chest, until;
"Legolas, I am so sorry." I blurted. "I have been a complete fool, and I deeply regret it. Please... I did not mean for my temper to go so out of hand. If you wish not to forgive me then I will understand. I know I have never hurt you like that; nor did I intend to in any way. Just know that I am incredibly rueful about what I have done, and I shall not let harm come to you again. I was just so shocked..."
Legolas raised a hand indicating for me to stop. I waited for his angry reply, my mahogany eyes scanning his fair, youthful face as he stared at me...

[Melathwen]

Could I believe him? He said he was sorry, but I had seen in his eyes that at the time, he meant what he had done. I lowered my raised hand. I had done what I returned to do and I was not ready to face anything else yet. My father waited with baited breath for my answer, I did not give him one. Turning my back on him, I walked to the end of the corridor, checked both directions, got out of sight of my father and ran. Ran as fast as I could back to my room, out onto my balcony and into the trees. I retraced my steps to my small flet, climbed to the top of that tree and found somehwere to sit, looking out over the forest.

The sun was just visible over the trees in the distance, and the top of the canopy was all variegated greens, with birds popping out of it from time to time. I sat, watching the sun climb slowly and thinking about what had happened since dusk last night. If given another chance, I would not react differently to any of it. My father knew what I had gone through, the terrors I had in my past. I had thought those wounds healed, it had been several hundred years ago, but when he hit me... All of it came back. All my old fears, my old reactions to any physical contact. It was as if I had gone back in time, my body remembering what had happened and reacting the way I had then. I knew that it was wrong, that I should not be frightened, but I was. Terribly. Memories, old and new, surfaced despite my efforts to push them away, and long before the sun reached its zenith tears were streaming down my cheeks at the remembered pain.

By evening I was hungry. I had not had anything to eat since midday the day before, and I was very hungry. Grief had worn me out, making me even more hungry. Sighing, I rose, climbed down to my talan and made my way slowly back to my room. I used the water that I would have used the previous night to wash all traces of tears from my face, changed into something clean and smart, pulled my mask into place and left for the dining hall. The only thing I dreaded was meeting my father.

[Etaina]

I gazed hesitantly once again at the King forlorn and apologetic as he stood before his son and yet the uncertainty brimming in his bright eyes warned that this perhaps was not my place.
Edging closer so that I could only be noticed if looked for I placed myself instead to lean against the nearest tree trunk entwining a stray lock of hair and twisting it round my finger.
My mother was as inconspicuous as always traipsing about the forest with determind grit: not even my father could tame her! She was I agknowledged, a rather strange she-elf choosing for herself whether to obey orders whether they be from her husband or King and yet I Lustelvive was her daughter...
Legolas left then as the King gazed lost to the leaf beds but still I did not budge from my position. He was King and it was not my right to intervene when he was in troubled doubt: he would not thankme for it...

[Melathwen]

I entered the dining hall hesitantly, and tried to cover my embarrassment as everyone looked at me; they had already started, but not very long ago. Pulling the mask I learned long ago back into place, I walked calmly up to my empty chair at my father's right hand and sat down, immediately helping myself to some venison. I piled my plate and began to eat, and there was a stony silence radiating from my father as he watched me. As I began, I realised just how hungry I was. The food was good and talk had sprung back up again when I sat down.

The silence stretched out, but I was not going to be the one to break it. I was still hungry, apart from anything else, but I didn't really want to talk to my father anyway. He had hit me. Hit me whilst knowing the pain it would cause, the memories it would bring. I still hadn't been able to suppress my old reactions, and when an elf touched my arm to ask for something, I flinched unconsciously. I also noted my father's face when I did. He knew what had caused it, why I had flinched. As my eyes caught his, I saw an apology written in them, but I turned away to the elf who had touched my arm and passed him what he had asked for. I noticed that he was the healer who had been with Raniean and Trelan, so I asked him how they were.

'Well, they got high fevers before we could find an antidote to the poison, and now are weak as kittens, but they will recover. You said that you had been injured, Your Highness, may I see it?' I nodded and reluctantly showed him the back of my hand. It was swollen slightly, and still red, but apart from that looked normal. 'I think you were more mildly poisoned than the others, but you should get that looked at.'

I avoided my father's eyes after that. He would not take well to the news that I was poisoned and had not had it looked at. The meal was finished in silence, but as I made to leave the hall my father caught my arm. Once again, I flinched, and he let go quickly. I turned away, ready to head back for my rooms and an early night, but he caught my arm again and did not let go, wincing at but ignoring my flinch.

'Legolas,' he said, 'I need to talk to you. I will take you to the healers to get your hand seen to, but after that we will talk.' I bowed my head; I did not like what he was telling me to do, but it was a direct order, and I would not disobey him. The fact that I had already done so, several times, in the past few days conveniently left my head at that moment.

[Onilalle]

I dreaded doing this; what would Legolas be thinking of me now? Still, I led him down to the healer's room and opened the door to let him pass. I shut the door behind me and watched as the healer came up to Legolas and examined his hand. I stayed silent for Legolas; I knew he probably wouldn't wish to have me speaking to him while he was healing. For a moment, he met my gaze, but he hastily looked away. I certainly did not wish to intimidate him, yet my actions over the past few hours had most likely done that already. The healer gently rubbed a potion that I assumed to be the antidote onto Legolas' hand, and I could see very well that my son was in pain. Never did I like to see him like that. "This should take at most an hour for the sting to pass, but it should be effective." said the healer mellifulously. Legolas nodded, got to his feet and walked silently towards me, his fair head still lowered. I held back a grimace as I thought about what his reaction would be, (if any at all.) So I led my son to the dining hall, where every elf had now left and not even the cooks had lingered. There was a tense silence for a moment, then I spoke.
"My son," I began uneasily, "I will not trouble you any longer. I have thought for a while, and have come to decide that you no longer need my silly overprotection. So, as you so rightly stated, Legolas, I will not lay any more boundaries on you again. Just know that I deeply regret not realising this sooner than now."

[Melathwen]

I gaped at my father. Whatever I had been expecting, it was not that. I had thought, I think, that he would be angry with me for running out on him twice, and instead he rewards me! Well, it wasn't quite a reward, it was something I thought I had deserved a long time ago, but still. I was not being punished.

'I would ask you one thing, though. To tell me when you are going out, at least for longer than the day, so that I will not worry over you. Will you do that? I don't like not knowing where you are, and if you aren't here for the evening meal I will send someone out to look for you. So just tell me if you are leaving, please,' he finished.

'Of course, ada,' I said. He smiled at the term that slipped out without me realising, and as I smiled in return, both of us knew that everything was forgiven. We turned together and walked outside onto a terrace, then down the steps and into the garden. The sun had just slipped over the horizon and everything was shadowed, looking palely beautiful.

'So, where did you go when you disappeared?' me father asked me. I smiled, stalling for time. I settled on telling him nothing.

'Just... around,' I replied, smiling at him again. He made an annoyed harrumph, which only increased my smile. 'If I told you, you would be able to find me a lot of the time, most especially when I don't want you to. Or anyone else, either. Not even Raniean or Trelan could have told you where I was.' I laughed as he made another annoyed noise, and it floated out through the night as his, deeper laugh joined mine.

[Etaina]

I had wondered from the palace into the woods surrounding it, letting my hand graze across their leathery bases with livid lithness as my own musings settled to darken my mood.
My father, illustrious at the best of times, was becoming increasingly submersed in his work: a scholor and bard by nature and archer by profession. I shurgged as my own melody milled in the air around me, fingertips strumming against the tree on which I lent.
Catching sight of a small pool of rainfall I sauntered lazily across to its base, stooping so that my hand traced the surface making quaint ripples to entwine together, and my reflection swirl bizzarely.
Frowing I twitched my head to the side casting a critical gaze at my reflection dark but bewitching as my own flaming stare glared back on itself.
Jumping backwads I immediately felt foolish and felt a heat to my cheeks yet even as I did so a manic bout of laughter rang from my lips.
" Stupid elf" I whispered aloud with a shake of the head rising from my position and swinging my hands freely by my side, until crouching at the base of the tree I folded my hands beneathe my chin.
King Thranduil was a busy elf and there had been something between he and his son that had set the air about them to fire. I was not overly aquainted with Legolas though I had seen him around the palace often enough; I never spoke to him and he not to me and yet that was the way of things. I doubt he even noticed me.
A bird stalked upon a twig aloft from my head sending a breif whistle before fluffing its wings and soaring overhead to smoulder in the breaking sun and so I waited once again for King Thranduil to show his notice...

[Onilalle]

A great feeling of intense relief and happiness swelled inside me as Legolas and I talked again like we usually did. Thank Eru I had said the right thing... otherwise I feared he would not speak to me again. I felt so warm knowing everything was forgiven; mine and Legolas' wrongdoing. Now I simply felt foolish for letting it go so out of hand.
"I will not do it again." I smiled weakly. Legolas' soft, melodic laughter was like music to me and I appreciated it even more now.
"Let us forget this happened." he said dismissively. I nodded and smiled wider.
We walked for a while through the trees, talking confidently to each other again. Elbereth knew how relieved I was! Legolas spoke about the day with his friends and his archery session with the elflings, and I listened intently to every word. Then he finished, and there was a small pause, until something popped into my mind that I knew I should have attended to earlier. I never delayed important business, if I could really help it.
"Ah," I said, stopping, "That elf that came in on us earlier- she wanted to speak to me. Would you mind if...?"
"Not at all, ada." replied Legolas. "I didn't quite catch what she looked like- do you know her?"
"Not personally, no." I said, turning to leave. "Anyway, I think I must go and attend to it. Said something about her father wanting to give me a message... Well, I shall see you later, Legolas. Oh, and remember what I told you..."
Legolas grinned and gave a wave of his hand, and I departed to go back to the palace to try and find the young elf. I felt so pleased now, that all the way there I was smiling softly to myself.

[Melathwen]

I watched my father, so relieved to see him lose, even for only a little while, the burden he had carried since being made King. As we walked in the woods, talking freely once again, his heart was as free as any young elfling's, and it caused me to smile softly as he left. He carried so much weight, the weight of whole Kingdom. I would have to ask him whether he would let me shoulder some of that weight, take a few of the lesser responsibilities. After all, I am Mirkwood's Prince.

I turned from watching my father and found someone watching me. I stood for a moment, something about her face touched my memory. Her face was pale, though her lips were vividly coloured, and her long black hair was lustrous, falling almost to her waist. Her grey eyes stared back at me, intense as she studied me. She was striking. Her black hair did not go with her vivd lips, not normally, but on her, they looked... right, somehow.

'Who are you?' I asked. I knew most of the elves in the Palace, but not this maiden. She was unlike any maiden I had ever seen before, and her eyes betrayed a little disappointment at her question. Why would she be disappointed if I didn't know her?

'My name is Lustelvive,' she said in a musical voice. 'I have a message for your father, King Thranduil, from my father. He said it was urgent, but King Thranduil was busy at the time, so I did not press him,' she murmured, in what she appeared to think of as a placating tone, and I wondered why for an instant before I realised what my eyes must look like. I remembered her now, remembered where I had seen her. She had been just outside the door after I fled from my father when he had hit me. I winced at the memory; I knew very well that every elf I had passed had seen my tears, and that was something I had long ago been taught to feel embarrassed about. Tears had been taught to me as a form of weakness, and as a Prince, I needed to be strong. As someone who had seen my tears, I felt angry towards her, though of course it was none of her fault. I removed the anger from my eyes, sank emotion deep inside me, and she visibly relaxed.

'My father has just gone looking for you. If you will come with me, I will take you to him,' I offered. My voice was cold; when emotion sank, so did my ability to express anything other than cold distance. Well, if she carried a message it would not matter very much, I supposed. I turned, and led the way back to the Palace, not watching to be sure she followed. Despite there being no emotion in my head anymore, there were plenty of thoughts whirling around. Most of them centred on Lustelvive.

[Onilalle]

I had been looking around for at most five minutes. Great annoyance came to me as I realised the elf could be anywhere in the palace. Probably by the time I found her, it would be too late anyway. Her father obviously wished to pass this message on urgently... if only I knew which elf her father was, then I would probably visit him myself. But as I did not, I would have to go and find her. But where was this young elf? I looked around the vast hall, checking left to right, up and down, but no sign. I scowled in frustration.
All of a sudden, I heard what sounded like Legolas calling my name from behind me. I whipped around to find him hurrying up to me, a pretty female elf at his heels. She seemed familiar... then I saw her clearly, and her face was that of the elf I had seen last night. To my relief, Legolas appeared to have found her. It looked as though they had met in the gardens just now.
I stepped over to them and looked at the elf questioningly. She gave a small bow of her head, then looked back up at me. Her hair was stunningly black; black as coal even. She looked as though she was an archer... her fingers held a couple of small, hardly notcable, healed-over sores. It seemed she was quite a dedicated one.
"shall I leave you now?" asked Legolas. He had a vague trace of displeasement in his face; I wondered if they had perhaps been a little curt with one another earlier.
"Yes- thankyou, son." I said. Legolas turned to depart the room.
"My Lord," began the elf, "I am sorry to have bothered you earlier- my father wishes for me to pass on a message, and an urgent one at that."
"Please do not worry." I said calmy. "Forgive me for not seeing you sooner... I have not had the time. Before we speak, though; may I inquire as to your name, my lady?"

[Etaina]

" A king never has time" I grinned wryly though it was imposing but rather endearing: as if the receiver's woes shrunk to nothing.
"He says there have been whispers of a nameless fear: a wandering shadow amoung the trees - an unnatural shadow" I added hesitantly unable to focus clearly on my words as I watched the arched back of Legolas melt away until snapping my attention back to the king I mummbled bitily
" Forgive me my lord - I was distracted" I sighed floatily shaking my head in light amusemant
" My father always did say I had a wandering memory anyway that was my message as such though when I enquired more he refused to do so unless it was in person" I shrugged slightly miffed and I thought vaguely that it must have showed.
" My name is Lustelvive daughter of Telliduth a high archer in your ranks" I gestured lifting my newly healed hands as if in evidance but on seeing the King's thoughtfull if slightly alarmed expression I softened offering a gentle comprimsie.
" I am sure it is nothing to worry about my lord. There will always be rumours and some that span centuries: would you like me to relay a message back or prefer an audiance with my father himself?" even as the words formed lithely to spill from my lips my thoughts wandered back to his son. He seemed to distance himself when before he left me, deep rolling tones cooling until I felt a positive chill and yet his bright entrancing eyes still left thier glow upon my face: but why?

[Onilalle]

I stared at the elf curiously. Yes, she seemed to be drifting out of her own focus a little, but she seemed like a friendly and fair woman. I listened to her words intently as she spoke in her melodic voice, and took everything in.
"I see." I muttered slowly, lowering my voice an octave. "Well Lustelvive, I cannot say your father is wrong. Yes, there has been dramatic change in our lands of late, and I cannot deny I have not noticed it too. The days have grown darker and cooler... many of our fellow elves appear to have noticed it. I wonder... have you felt anything of the sort? By this I mean... wariness, insecurity; Unhappiness. For I have felt it, and a number of my courtiers have confided in me over the past days. It is peculiar. Let me remind you that any elf may consult me any time, so please; feel free to do so."
Lustelvive paused for a brief moment. She appeared to be deep in thought.

[Etaina]

" Your pardon Sir?" I answered wispily shaking my head so that several strands of hair fell forward to my face obscuring my view as a veil of shadow. Directing my thoughts elsewhere I shuddered as a memory crept ice cold slithering up my back and the king sensing this sudden change narrowed his eyes questioningly.
" I think that indeed I have my leige earlier this morn. A strange sort of equamity that abashed all fears so that I sloped into an untimely state of rest. As if I were being watched but even had they snatched me in my place I would have merely stood rooted to the spot." I ended fraily dropping my eyes to ground with perpetual confusion. That indeed, had been a dark moment and yet lifting my eyes to that of the King's I smiled serenly
" I thank you for you attentiveness to my fathers words: I only hope that this mist of shrouded uncertainty disperses so that we can breathe freely again"

[Onilalle]

"And I too, lady." I smiled back. "I sympathise with you, I really do. I also sense this unusual feeling. You might wonder as to why I am asking you this rather than keeping my business to myself... I feel there is a lot more to this strange entity. Which is why I am asking you such personal questions; I hope every elf in the palace can do the same, for I feel we must all stay together at this time. If you know what I mean... confide in each other, because if we keep things to ourselves, we may find ourselves feeling isolated more than ever. So please, Lustelvive, try and spread the word. I sense that this shadowing is no small issue, for it has never befallen Greenwood before now."
Lustelvive nodded. I smiled and looked around the hall.
Then my smile slowly faded as a peculiar thing happened... it was midday, yet the atmosphere had grown considerably darker. Curiously... a dim shadow flooded the hall and encompassed everything. Lustelvive's dark brow furrowed and she too gazed about the hall at this unusual darkening.
"What is happening, my lord?" she asked.
"I do not know." I replied. Instinctively, I went to walk to the entrance, but stopped and turned around again. "Lustelvive, would you kindly call Legolas and all the other elves in who are still outside? Tell them the king wishes to hold a meeting."
Lustelvive looked quite alarmed by my abrupt desision, but I sensed something grave. I could no longer keep it held back from my subjects. I had to discuss this matter openly to them, for the atmosphere had just grown more forboding.

[Melathwen]

As my father dismissed me I stepped outside the hall, but no further. After all, had not father told me I could go where I wished? Shutting the door softly I pressed my ear against it; murmurs came through the thick carved wood, but no more. Sighing, I cracked the door open once more and pressed my ear to the crack; the voices leaped into focus. I heard everything, but when my father said to fetch me I stiffened. He had not prohibited me from being here, yet it may be best if he did not find me so. I searched my brain, thinking of some reason to enter the hall once more. Archery. The one thing my father would never question in me.

I stepped back into the hall and stopped dead. There was... something... here. Something that was not right. It was midday, yet the hall was as dark as dusk, and felt wrong, too.

'Father, what is this? I was going to fetch my bow; I have not practised in a two days, but why is it so dark?' There, excuse made. I think my father may have seen through it had he not been preoccupied by whatever it was that had infested our hall.

'I do not know, Legolas. I have just ordered a meeting of the council, will you help Lustelvive to spread the word?' I had not noticed her there, she had seemed to fade into the shadows, yet once I looked on her again... I looked back to my father and bowed slightly.

'As you wish, father,' I replied, my voice the same cold distance. I turned back once again and left, looking for members of the council. It did not take long to round them all up, and I entered the throne room to see my father sat ready, Lustelvive close to him and all the other members there. I took my place in my own throne and waited for my father to begin.

[Onilalle]

"Honourable elves of the council." I began, loud enough for the room to hear proplerly. "I wish to bring a very serious issue to your attention; though, of course, it may have already come to your attention anyway. Some of our subjects, over the past few days, have come to us for advice or even consolance, for they claim to have sensed a new entity befalling our wood. Which is why I am speaking to you today; I wish to express that I no longer feel that the realm of Dol Guldur is safe. Shadow has passed. Darkness has fallen. Coldness and apprehension has filled our air. Even enemy forces have crossed our borders, seemingly from the dark land or Mordor."
As I said that, I shot a glance at Legolas, who looked down uneasily. Many worried whispers echoed around the room.
"Word from Imladris has passed my way," I continued, "and Lord Elrond tells me that men of the realms of Gondor and Rohan have begun to name our land 'Mirkwood.' This shows that they too have noticed this foreboding shadow, therefore I certainly do not wish for it to go unnoticed within my kingdom. I fear that our realm here is dwindling, for enemies have now crossed the land and thus we cannot trust even the merest visitor. I trust you begin to understand now."
More anxious murmuring came over the room. Many of the elves there looked horrified. I carried on...
"In saying this; I must ask you, and any member of our realm, not to leave Dol Guldur at any point for now. The risk is too great, for I value the lives of my people, and to go beyond our borders would be the last move any of us make. I too sense this shadowing, and I will state this: the realm of Dol Guldur is no longer a safe area for us, and I would ask you to be incredibly careful. I will ask you in a minute for each of you in turn to go round and spread word to our subjects, and tell the parents of any elflings to be extremely vigilant with their young. I wish not for anyone to get hurt. I will contemplate this matter further, and word will be given to you when a desision is made. For now, I ask you; Please heed close my words. I thank you for coming. The council is dismissed for now."

[Etaina]

I listened intent to my lord's words noticing the tell-tale shadows darkening many an elf's eyes as they blinked and dispersed mumbling amoungst themselves in hurried, fluent whispers.
Detaching myself from thier shuffled voices I looked to the King who stared with stern assurance around at his subjects many of whom bowed respectfully before turning on thier heels and leaving the hall with no more then a word.
As for myself, well, my father was inescapablely 'busy' and my mother barely spared me a glance save it be reprimand. Sighing I inclined my head slowly to the king.
" A warning well headed I think" I smiled carefully dismissing myself before edging towards the entrance of the hall my chin dropped in thought until, before I knew it, I stood inches away from the Prince where I would of had it not been for a vague clearing of the throat , barged straight into him.
" Forgive me your highness I had been watching my feet instead of thier path" an obvious comment, a grimaced inwardly biting my lip with hesitant apoligy and yet his same cool glow met with the peircing grey of my own gaze. Why was he so detached? It struck me then that perhaps he did not care for my presence or not have warmed to me at all, and so tilting my chin with light defiance I sheilded behind a wry bewitching smile: at least then my bewilderment was hidden.
" It has not offended you I hope?"

[Melathwen]

I looked down at the startled elf; it was Lustelvive, the elf who had delivered her father's message to my father. She was very close, apparently having almost walked into me, so I took a step back, though not pleased to do so she did not appear to have any intention of moving, and being so close was... unsettling.

'No, you have not offended me,' I said. Even to my ears my voice sounded distant and cold, and I barely suppressed a wince. However, with a beautiful she-elf that close to me, I stuffed my emotions even further away, though I tried to pull some semblance of warmth into my eyes, which I knew very well were like ice all too often.

I wondered briefly what she was doing here; she did not seem to know herself. Her eyes were vacant, she was looking over my head in a way that would have been rude had she truly not realised what she was doing. Her skin was pale, almost translucent, and I wondered what it would be like to stroke her soft cheek... No, I thought with horror, that was not the sort of thing I should be thinking of at the moment. With the kingdom in peril, I could not spend my time mooning after she-elves who were so absent minded they did not notice when they were about to walk into their Prince!

'Excuse me,' I said, and turned to follow my father. I considered giving a reason, but I felt that that would be too informal. Princes do not, generally, explain their comings and goings to any but Kings or Queens. I hurried after father, following him to his private study. 'Ada?' I asked. He looked up, apparently surprised to see me.

'Legolas? Did you want something?' he asked, fixing his somewhat tired gaze on me. Blue eyes looked into blue eyes, and for the first time in what seemed like months, I saw how truly tired he was. He hid it well, if even I had not noticed, but, alone with me, his guard seemed to slip, and weariness shone in eyes so like my own.

'I did, ada,' I answered slowly. Would he allow me to do this? 'You have seemed tired of late, no, do not try to deny it, I can see it. Why don't you let me take some responsibility? A few of the lighter, less important things, so that you can have a little rest now and again, and need not worry over trivial matters. I am the Prince, after all. It is my responsibility to see that the King perform his job to the best of his ability, and at the moment, ada, you are not.'

[Onilalle]

I stared at my son for a moment, thinking about this. I felt slightly flustered. Had I not been so weary, I probably would have retorted back in annoyance. Something deep inside my heart told me he was in some way right, yet I could not abandon my duty so absently. No, I would not let that happen. I was not that weak, and I wasn't going to give in so easily.
"Legolas," I said firmly, "I greatly appreciate your concern, but I feel it is not necessary. Please do not take it the wrong way, son. I certainly do not think you are incapable in any way."
Legolas nodded incredulously, his brow lowering slightly.
"I know you are trying to be helpful," I added, "and I thank you for that. Nevertheless, I think I am capable of ruling my own kingdom. If not, then I begin to ponder how I have lasted all these years as the Lord of Greenwood."
I did not shoot another glance at my son as I turned on my heel to depart the hall. Yes, I was weary, but what kind of a king would I be if I gave up my duties to a son that was almost seven millenia younger than me? It would not be that easy.
I trudged slowly up the grand staircase and headed for my chamber. I needed time alone to think about this day's chaotic events.

[Melathwen]

I understood my father, but I did not think that was he had said was the point. After all, it was my kingdom too, I may one day have to rule it, and would it not be better to at least know something of a ruling a kingdom before called upon to do so? I sighed and watched my father leave; he really was tired. Well, if he would not accept my offer, there was little more I could do. With another small sigh I went outside. The shadow seemed to have gone and it was still early afternoon. Making a quick decision, I disappeared inside and reappeared outside a few minutes later, quiver on my back and bow in hand. I ran down to the archery yards, but was disappointed to see elfling classes taking up the while space, I had wanted to practice alone.

Some of the elflings spotted me, and pointed, which caused the rest to turn around, even those who were supposed to be shooting. With another tiny sigh I continued on down, deciding that if I couldn't practice myself, I could teach some of the elflings, and when they left I would be able to practice. To my surprise, Raniean and Trelan arrived soon after, and we set out teaching the younger elflings how to keep the arrows flying in front of them, and not behind, which an annoying number had the habit of doing. Dodging stray arrows and wishing I had some armour on, I forgot about everything else.

[Onilalle]

I sat silently on my balcony, my chin in my hands. I watched the little group of children across the grounds, which I could see clearly from my height. I smiled vaguely to myself as I caught sight of Legolas, Raniean and Trelan running around trying to dodge clumsy arrows, and the looks on the little elflings' faces as they did so. They appeared to be enjoying themselves. I saw one elfling begin to stray out of the group and my stomach jolted unpleasantly... then to my relief I saw my son hurry over to her and take her by the hand, leading her back to the group. I smiled widely. I knew he cared, like me, for the lives of others and had clearly heeded my words. Perhaps Legolas shared the same fondness of children that I did- I certainly take great enjoyment in simply sitting and watching them play. When Legolas was a child, I used to take him for walks in the woods and let him climb trees. I had treasured those years... Maybe I found it theraputic.
I watched my son and his friends teach the young ones to shoot, adjusting their stance and improving their aims. All seemed to be relatively safe now, and if anything did go wrong then I would be able to see from here.
Having said this, after about a quarter of an hour I began to lose concentration. I felt my eyelids droop, but I quickly opened them again. I had to stay awake. If anything happened I would be horribly frustrated. But my eyes stung with weariness and my breath grew heavy. No... I had to stay awake. I strained my eyes, but I felt them drop again. Soon enough, the drowsiness was too much for me. My eyes closed and with another breath I felt myself slowly drift off to sleep...

[Etaina]

I watched the Prince as he dodged the stray arrows with a smile straying almost forigenly upon my lips as the darkness sunk to my shoulders, so that I pysically shook to try and shrug it off.
Casting my gaze about there was nothing incriminating in the scene of tutor and pupil and yet despite myself I found my feet leading me consistantly to the woods where I was stooping again over the same small pool, only this time my eyes were not staring at my own, but rather at another misty slightly shaded shillouette edging behind me.
Shooting up with the litheness of an archer I met with boring glare of rim red eyes brimming with supressed loathing as whatever this anomilie was scathed with inchoherant mumblings and I froze meeting his glare evenly even though a sharp tremor caught at my wrist and a weariness led my lids to flutter.
" Get a grip!" I cursed openly, my voice sounding as if it were from another and so twitching my head quickly I picked my way around this shadow scant breathing matching the pacing of my footfalls as a harsh shreik reverberated of itself and from sheer instinct I caught at the nearest branch swinging myself upwards and watching until, finally normality returned and the shadow was no more.

[Melathwen]

I heard a shriek reverberating from the woods. Whatever it was, it was not good.

'Get the elflings back to the Palace!' I yelled at Raniean and Trelan, who had looked up in surprise at the shriek. Turning my back on them and confident they would obey a direct command, I grabbed my bow and quiver from where they rested against the fence. Easily strapping my quiver on, I brought my bow up and knocked an arrow, running out into the woods. It wasn't until I began to creep caustiously that I realised I wasn't alone; Raniean had followed me. 'I told you to take the elflings,' I hissed at him, annoyed.

'It's my job to protect you,' he said, shrugging, but his voice was as low as mine. 'Trel took the elflings, they follow him better than me anyway. They'll be all right,' he whispered. I glared at him before turning back to the woods. Something was moving out there. Gazing around cautiously, I spotted the source of the noise; an orc, and quite obviously a scout. In one swift movement he fell dead, my arrow through his eye. I spotted another and shot it just as Raniean saw a third. When both fell dead, the forest was silent.

With the danger gone, or at least gone for the moment, I looked around for the source of the shriek. It did not take me long to find, the elf was trying to crawl towards the Palace, and with his wounds, he was not making a very good job of being quiet. A heavily bleeding gash on one thigh prevented him from walking, and another long slash down his arm made him try to pull himself with one arm and push with one leg. He wore a quiver on his back that was nearly spent, but the sheaths of two knives were visible, though in a dark wood I had never seen before. A long sword hung from his belt, or would have, had he been upright, and a bow longer than mine was slung over his quiver.

Motioning Raniean to help me, I pulled the elf upright and immediately discovered that it was, in fact, a female elf clad as a male. My shock was palpable, and I almost dropped her. Nevertheless, as soon as she was stood up, she fainted, from blood loss, I assumed. Picking her up easily, I carried her back to Palace, Raniean following, still looking for any other orcs.

[Onilalle]

A loud rushing noise came to my ears as I stood in blurry greyness... I must still have been asleep, for none that I could see was comprehendable at all. Images flashed past me; some that looked sinister and gruesome, and others that were an incoherent mess. I could not feel any part of my body as I stood, unable to move, and gazing at the horrors before me. Terrible images of elves, men and even dwarves being slain and brutally tortured passed over my head, and I could not tear my gaze away from them. It was awful. Then the most horrific and shocking picture came into focus... it looked like... my son, but he was not my son... yet I could tell it was in some way. Legolas lay motionless on the discoloured grey floor, what seemed like blood oozing from his open mouth... and eyes that looked deadened and gaunt. His face was oddly sunken and cold, and his chest was gaping wide with an enormous gash wound. I could not move, I was so apalled. What was happening? Why was I seeing my son dead?
Then a sudden sensation ran through me. My breath caught in my throat and I was unable to breath. I tried to clutch at my neck but my hands wouldn't budge. I heard another, deeper, booming voice fill my ears. Then It happened...

Ash Nazg durbatuluk,
ash nazg gimbatul,
ash nazg thrakatuluk,
agh burzum-ishi krimpatul.

My head began to swim. The verse of the one ring in the black speech had been spoken, and my eyes were painful. I felt limp and dizzy, as if I had the blood drained from my head... then I fell down, down....

I awoke with a jolt. I was breathing very heavily, and I had broken into a cold sweat. What had happened? Why had I had that ominous dream? But I had to think later... I heard yelling and unusual sounds coming from below. I heaved myself shakily off the floor and gasped as I saw it. From my place on the balcony, I could see a group of at least seven orcs striding outside the gates, and I went pale. I saw a few fall dead, with arrows embedded in their heads. Then a few seconds later a terrible scream emanated from just inside the woods and caught sight of Legolas hurrying over to where it had come from. I had chosen a horrifically foolish time to fall asleep. I staggered across my chamber, for I still felt horribly weak, and began to make my way downstairs.
It had begun.

[Melathwen]

As I picked the maiden up in my arms, I heard other shrieks come from the palace. Gesturing to Raniean with my head, I indicated we should hurry. When we reached the palace, I was appalled at the sight that met my eyes. Elves were running everywhere, most of them maidens, or mothers trying to gather their elflings. Trelan was yelling at the elflings to stay together, but they were running in every direction. But that was not the worst. There were orcs in the courtyard, at least fifteen.

I lay the maiden down gently but hastily, and caught my bow from Raniean. Swinging it up, my arm flew over my head and felt into my quiver, an arrow came out in my grasp. I nocked, aimed, drew and released all in one swift motion, watching the flight of that arrow to be sure it killed my target while drawing another. As quickly as I could, I aimed and released, arms moving faster than sight as orc after orc fell dead to my arrows, but I was not alone. Raniean was shooting, too, and eventually, all of them lay dead, many with more than one arrow. When silence had fallen, I slung my bow over my back and picked the maiden up again. She needed to get to the Healers. I met my father in the entrance hall, his face death white, but I was unable to perform even the small bow that I should, with my arms full of the maiden. Without stopping, I headed for the Healers wing, Raniean and my father following.

[Onilalle]

I hurried with my son, Raniean and the wounded she-elf across the corridor. It had all happened in a rush; I had no time to think about all that had gone past. My mind was an incoherent flurry at that moment and I found it hard to keep up with my son and his friend, for my legs felt numb. I became queasy and light-headed, but I had to keep going. The maiden looked seriously wounded, and I was fearing for her. The yells and screams became fainter and fainter until we reached the healers' wing, where Legolas lay the elf gently down on a bed. She looked unconsious. I stared at her as Raniean called for aid. The healer came running into the room and uttered something to them, but I could not hear it. My ears, even as sharp as they were, could now only pick up peculiar, fuzzy noises. I swore I saw Legolas say something to me, but I didn't catch what he said. I narrowed my eyes in question and he gave me a concerned stare. he spoke again, yet the fuzziness of my hearing blocked it off again. This had only just come on. He looked worried. I gestured for him to draw his attention back to the maiden, for she appeared to be gradually coming to consiousness. Then my hearing became all of a sudden clearer, and I could now hear the murmuring coming from the healer and Raniean. Suddenly my stomach gave a violent lurch and I ran quickly out of the room... I felt sick as hell. I stood outside the room on my own and closed my eyes, placing a hand roughly over my mouth to prevent myself from retching. What was going on? I felt drained, and I realised it was probably something to do with that horrifying dream. Never before had I had a dream like that, nor had I felt so ill. The enemy was definately penetrating our lands now, and I became extremely apprehensive... what was to become of my kingdom if we didn't defend it? Would I have to send out my warriors? I hated the thought, but it seemed to be the only choice...
I had not further time to think about this; something behind me had just jerked me back to my senses. I turned around.

[Melathwen]

As soon as I saw that the maiden was beeing properly seen to, I followed my father out of the room. Why ahd he left so suddenly? If I didn't know better, I would have said he were sick, but of course, that was impossible. He leant against the wall, a hand over his mouth. What was wrong with him?

'Ada?' I asked, concern touching my voice; at his distress, my mask had vanished like a whisp of smoke bourne by the breeze. 'Are you all right? Ada?' I was worried when I didn't get a response immediately, but eventually, he turned around to look at me, his face pale and fear in his eyes. My father, afraid?

[Onilalle]

"I'm... I'm fine." I said unsteadily, my voice a little raspy. Legolas looked very anxious... but I could not bring myself to tell him about my awful dream. After all, I did not wish for my son to be frightened by the fact I had seen him dead and heard the voice of the one; the dark lord. But who would I tell, if not him? I was in a rather difficult dilemma.
"Ada, tell me the truth." muttered Legolas firmly. "I know that is a lie. I can see! You look ill!"
I sighed. In my son's bright azure eyes was a look of deep question and incredulity, and I felt terrible for keeping it from him. I eventually decided it would probably be for the best. After all, as he so rightly said, he was the prince of Mirkwood. He would have to know.
"Alright, then." I mumbled. "I shan't keep it from you. I feel you're mature enough now to handle these things." I took a deep breath. "I won't expect you to take this easily, but... I fell asleep a while ago on my balcony and I had a dream. It was no ordinary dream; in fact, it was more like foreshadowing, and no dream like any elf would have..."
I explained carefully my dream to Legolas. His eyes were wide with astonishment, but I was glad to get it off my chest. I told Legolas all about the voice of Sauron and the people being killed, and he shook his head in dismay.
"And..." I continued, lowering my voice and closing my eyes, "This... this may come as a shock to you, but I must speak my mind. I... I saw you. But you weren't walking around like you were before I fell asleep. You were dead."

[Melathwen]

I almost took a step backwards. Dead? Immortals do not die! Well, not naturally. I didn't want to die. I didn't want to leave the world behind an be ever bound to one place. How boring that would be! But most of all, I did not want to leave my father behind, or Greenwood. I loved them both, elf and forest, and I would not be the same if I had to leave them.

'Ada, I am not going to die. Not if I have anything to say about it, anyway. Elves don't die, not from natural causes, and I am careful in battle. I will do my best not to get killed.' Little did I know just how hard that would prove to be.

'I know, Legolas,' ada said. 'I know.'

[Onilalle]

I wrapped a hand gently around my son's shoulders. He looked downcast and unnerved, and I had to console him in some way. I cared a lot for him and loved him with my heart, and I didn't wish for him to be in discomfort.
"Legolas, you told me you wanted to be independant." I said. "And as prince, you have the right to know about these things. I don't wish to treat you like a child."
Legolas looked up at me. I managed a weak smile at him.

"I am sure you will be able to look after yourself well." I added reassuringly. "After all, it was only a dream, and these things are not always true. Therefore please do not worry yourself, my son. I simply had to tell someone and get it off my chest... You know when I give you advice and you come to me about things that are bothering you as such?"
Legolas nodded curiously.
"Well, the parent has just as much reason to confide in someone as their child does. And they have a great advantage, especially if their son is a prince. You understand that, don't you, Legolas?"

[Melathwen]

'Of course I do. It just... unsettled me for a moment, is all. I'm fine, really. And I'm glad you're feeling better,' I started a grin, glad that my father felt he was able to confide in me. This was what I had meant when I asked for a little more responsibility, or almost. Before my grin could fully form, there was a call from the healers.

'She's waking! Tell the Prince,' commanded one of them. Raniean came out to get me, but he saw that I had heard and followed me inside instead. The maiden lay on a bed, pale golden hair splayed about her unnaturally pale face, making her lips look brighter in comparison, and they were already bright, a deep crimson. Her eyes were shut, so I could not see their colour, but they were a perfect shape, slanted slightly and tilting a little. Her slim hand lay on the coverlet, fingers slender and dextrous, the callouses of an archer almost non-existant.

'How is she?' I asked, looking at one of the healers. He considered the maiden for a moment, and his eyes flicked admiringly but disapprovingly over her weapons, which were laid on a small table next to her bed, the bow and sword propped against the wall. Her knife blades were long with keen edges, they curved slightly. Elvish script was written on them, but it must have been ancient for I could not read it. The knife handles were a dark wood I assumed must come from southern Harad, and they were inlaid with ivory. Her quiver was ornate, about half full of long, white-fletched arrows of the same wood of her knife-hilts. Her sword was very long, also, though the sheath was plain if well-made, the hilt was dark wood with a spiral inlay of ivory. Her bow was longer than mine, which is one of the longest in the kingdom, and I wondered whether this was her bow or the bow of a lost loved-one, perhaps her father, for I could not see how she could ever draw the thing. It looked well-used, though, and was very well cared for.

'She will live, I think, though she will be weak for a long time. She suffered severe injuries, and we have done the best we can. She should live, unless there is something we missed. We have checked for poison, nad cannot find any, so we need not worry about that, my Lord,' the healer replied. I breathed a small sigh of relief, and turned back to my father, whose voice I could hear in the hallway.

[Onilalle]

I had heard the maiden had awoken and I decided I had best stay outside the room; I did not want to intrude and I was sure she would not appreciate the room being too crowded. So I stood in the hallway, leaning against the wall and taking in the day’s events. It had passed by so rapidly that I had not much time just to think about it. I thought gravely of the ominous dream, and I was glad to have been able to consult Legolas. He was very understanding in that sense.

I stood in thought for a while, until my sharp ears just picked up the sound of diminutive feet pattering very fast about the floor around the corner. My head jerked up and I looked across the corridor. Subsequently, I caught sight of a young elfling sprinting frantically into the hallway. He looked no younger than about seven or eight, and by the looks of it he was very small. His face was horrifically pale, and he was panting when he came to an abrupt stop in the middle of the corridor. He looked at me and his eyes began to brim with tears.
I hurried over to the child, who was nowhere near tall enough even to reach my midriff, and I knelt down in front of him. He stared at me, a look of sheer fright on his tender face. I gently put a hand on his shoulder and looked into his large, deep brown eyes. Then the elfling began to sob quietly into his tiny hands, and I looked in dismay at him, for he was traumatised.
“Calm yourself, little one.” I soothed, bringing his hands away from his sodden face. “Now tell me what has happened.”
It took the boy a while to open his mouth to talk. Eventually, he sobbed; “It is atar… the orcs… they…” He broke down again. Knowing what the truth was, I wrapped my arms around the elfling’s trembling form and comforted him. His mother had obviously been killed by orcs.
“It’s alright, child.” I whispered. “You are safe for now. Where is your father?”
“I-I don’t have a father.” wept the elfling. I stared at him pityingly… this child was orphaned. It was not often that something like that happened in my kingdom. “What is your name?” I asked.
“I am Elverion.” He answered meekly. “I have seen the orcs… they are in the woods now but I have seen some coming towards the palace. They’re coming, my Lord, and they won’t stop!”
I glared at the boy in horror. No. They could not enter the palace. All my people were in here, and their lives depended on this palace as a point to keep them safe; a shelter. I turned around. “Legolas…” I called. “I need you out here for a moment.”

[Melathwen]

As my father called me, I hurried outside, Raniean on my heels.

'What is it, ada?' I asked. I looked at the little one cradled in his arms, and recognised him. He had been one of the boys Ran Trel and I were teaching to shoot, and he had been the youngest. Not the worst, though, in fact, he was one of the better ones. 'Elverion?' I asked. He turned a tear-streaked face up to me, and I took him from my father. He clung to me, wrapping tiny hands in my tunic as I sought to comfort him. 'What happened, ada?' I asked.

'His mother was killed by orcs, and he says he doesn't have a father. Obviously you know him, Legolas, so perhaps you know more about that than I do. Anyway, he says there are orcs approaching the Palace, and that they won't stop. We need to organise defense.'

'Of course. Elverion, if I take you to a nice room, will you promise me to stay there? I will find a nice maiden to play with you, and if you are a good boy I will take you out to the archery courts and give you a special lesson, all by yourself. Will you do that for me?' He nodded, not letting go of me. 'Ada, I will be back soon,' I said. Father nodded, and I walked away, Raniean staying with me and trying not to laugh. I glared at him, which only made it worse. 'Raniean, stop it!' I snapped, and with a supreme effort, he managed to put on a straight face, although I could still see the laughter in his eyes.

We walked fast, as I looked for a maiden I knew who was good with children. Finally, I found her, sat with some others, doing embroidery in the light from a large window.

'Eruanna, will you do me a favour?' I asked, wincing as they all got up and curtsied. She came over to me, all grace, as her name implied, dressed in a light blue gown, her black hair cascading down over her shoulders.

'Of course, my Prince. You have only to name it,' she answered, smiling at Elverion. Most of the maidens were smiling at him, actually. Either that or eyeing me or Raniean, who seemed to be appreciating the attention. I wrenched my gaze back to Eruanna.

'Could you look after Elverion? His mother has just been killed by orcs and his father was killed before he was born. I am needed to organise our defense. I ask also that all of you stay inside, do not venture out for any reason, and tell any others who come here to do the same. Warriors should be sent to the armoury,' I ordered. Each of them bobbed a curtsy, eliciting another wince.

'Elverion, is it? Well, come here little one, and we can play a game. What would you like to play?' I passed him to her, after untangling his hands from my tunic, and made my way briskly back to where my father was waiting.

[Etaina]

I was shaken that was true from the incident and the niggling unsettling feeling of an approaching catalyst thumped against my skull urging a splintering headache and yet striding through the palace to one of the farthest room I discarded the archers garb I was wearing in favour of a slender tight fitting emerald green gown: one of my mothers though she rarely wore them. Casting a critical eye over my reflection I grabbed a brush from the dresser yanking it through the dark riddles of my hair and setting it to flow over my right shoulder.
Walking from the room and out onto the main forecourt of the palace I saw the Prince intent and proud as he strode presumabely to his father and the young elf staring after him as he deposited him to Eruanna who intended to distract him with a song.
I smiled at the elfling but found my gaze wandering to that of the Prince despite his constant coldness towards me and even though it should have dettered me, it did not - well perhaps not as much as it should. Of course the cold sweeping of rejection may have showned plain in my eye should one have looked deep enough but the pressing darkness consuming the realm was increasinly foreboding.
Perching myself upon a nearby bench I sat in thoughtful silence and waited for the return of my father: if indeed he would ever return.

[Onilalle]

“Is the little one seen to?” I asked Legolas as he returned to the hall. He nodded and Raniean looked as if he was trying to bottle up his laughter. Legolas nudged him warningly, though I smiled.
“He’s with Eruanna, ada.” Replied Legolas. “He’s still a little shaken, but I think that playing some games will take his mind off his grief.”
“Good.” I breathed. “Then if that is taken care of, we must see to it that the palace is protected. Raniean, alert Taraldur and tell him that the warriors are needed. I will go with Legolas and Trelan; the elves incapable of fighting need to be taken to the topmost floor of the palace… they’ll be safe there.”
Raniean nodded and departed the hall to find Taraldur, one of my chief warriors. Legolas called Trelan into the hall and the three of us set off to alert the palace. It was not too difficult to find them all, and they all gathered into the main hall; elves, maidens and children, all muttering anxiously to each other until I cleared my throat and raised my voice.
“Silence!” I bellowed over the noise. All quietened down. “My fellow elves; the enemy has crossed our borders and are seeking to penetrate the palace. We cannot delay now- I will ask you soon to evacuate the hall, begin to make your way to the highest tower and stay there. Hopefully you will be safe. My son will check there is nobody missing, meanwhile you will all collect the things you need, like your weapons and some small provisions. Make sure all the women and the elflings are kept safe, then the rest of you shall come back down to be armed. We must fend off the orcs in order for this realm to survive.”
Legolas hastily went round and checked with some of the elves to make sure no one was not present in the hall, and a few short minutes later he returned.

“No one is missing at the moment.” He said. “They are all here.”
“Thankyou, son.” I said, squeezing his shoulder gratefully. “Trelan, lead them up. You’ll be in charge of the women and elflings.”
Trelan gave a small bow and left, beginning to direct the elves upstairs. The male elves looked pale; they knew they had to fight. I felt utterly dreadful for doing this, but I only had a small army and it wasn’t nearly enough to defend the realm. Legolas stepped up beside me and looked at me.
“Father, you know that maiden, Lustelvive?”
“Yes?”
“Well, I looked and I did not see her. She must still be in her room.”
I looked at him. “Elbereth… We cannot leave her behind. She needs to be taken to safety with the women and children. Could you find her?”
Legolas nodded, somewhat half-heartedly.
“When you have done, Legolas, please come back down, fetch your bow and quiver and get yourself fitted for armour. We must lead the elves to battle.”

[Melathwen]

Why was it me my father had sent to look for Lustelvive? Why couldn't someone else have done it? I sighed and went to her rooms, but she was not there. I went back to the main hall, but it was now empty. Slipping outside, I looked quickly around the gardens, and spotted her sitting on a bench in the sun. She had changed into a deep green gown, and her black hair hung loose and shining over her shoulders. I swallowed and approached her.

'Lustelvive? You must come inside, and up to the tallest tower. Orcs are approaching and you must be kept safe. If you will follow me?' I offered. Without waiting for an answer I led her up to the tallest tower and she slipped through the doors.

'Take care of them, Trel, though I know you would rather be out fighting. You have an important job, though, the future of our kingdom is in there. Keep safe,' I said, and left him. He would be all right. Making a detour to my room, I strapped on my quiver and sheathed my knives, and picking up my bow ran to find my father, who was directing the warriors to their positions.

'I am ready, Ada,' I said. 'Where do you want me?'

[Onilalle]

I saw Legolas come through into the hall, armed and ready. I was now in my armour; I felt peculiar. The last time I had been in this armour was at the battle of Dagorlad, and that had been centuries ago. The gold plating over the robes of deep green felt a little heavy because I was so used to wearing the usual tunic and robe. Now I felt apprehensive, and I shouldn’t have been. The other elves were quiet. I figured they were terrified of going to battle; most of them had never even seen one being fought.
“Legolas, before you get into position please go over to Taraldur; he has your basic armour. I don’t want you fighting without it.”
“But ada, I don’t need it!” said Legolas irritably. “After all, you said-”
“This time I do not care what I told you.” I snapped. “Other times I will allow you to do anything you want. This time I will have EVERY warrior- that includes you- to wear armour in battle. Whether you like it or not, that is one area in independence that I refuse to leave to you alone.”
Legolas sighed exasperatedly and trudged over to the chief. One thing I would never allow was for my son to fight a horde of barbaric orcs without some means of protection, even if it was but a couple of shoulder plates.
A minute later Legolas returned with, in fact, a chest plate… that was good enough for me. Now I was satisfied.
“Sorry, Legolas.” I said. “I just won’t have you being the only elf without armour, if you understand me.”
Legolas nodded dismissively. “Alright. Where do you want me? Shall I join the secondary line?”
“No, son.” I said, taking a breath. “I would have you go to battle the way I did with my father; at the front. By my side.”

[Melathwen]

'By your...' I trailed off. This was going further than I had ever expected. He was ready to have me by his side in battle? Well, I wasn't going to argue, since that was exactly where I wanted to be, but still... I was amazed. 'As you command, Atar,' I said. He smiled at me, and I flashed an aswering smile back, before it was time to take our places.

As we lined up, I pondered the coming battle. I had never really fought a proper battle before, though of course there had been skirmishes, and fights with small bands of orcs that I had been a part of, but I had never seen a battle of army against army. I stood next to my father in the front line, looking around at our warriors. Many of them seemed heartened to see me stood next to my father, the two of us ready to defend our kingdom to the death. For either of us would die for Greenwood, or Mirkwood, as it was now being called, I realised. I would lay down my life for my kingdom in a heartbeat, if I knew it would help.

I saw Raniean, ready with his company. He caught my eye, and we flashed grins at each other. It was his first real battle, too. Randomir stood nearer us, at the head of a larger company, and ready to defend his King and Prince if need be. He was staring straight ahead, straining to hear something, anything. I listened, too, and then suddenly I heard it; a great tramping of hard boots and the noises of creatures trying to move stealthily and failing miserably. They were coming closer. I looked up to my father, and we shared one last look before the orcs broke through and battle began.

[Onilalle]

I felt immensely proud of my son at that moment as we began to take our places. I drew my bow and the army followed suit, ready for battle. The Orcs came striding in to the great hall, their mangled sword-like weapons brandished in the air. The army of Orcs had, to my horror, increased rapidly. What was about fourteen had now become near eight hundred. My heart pounded in my chest but I kept my glare on what seemed to be the orc leader; a hideously ugly creature with a vilely formed helmet of steel. The army of orcs stopped dead and roared in fury as they saw us. I too raised my hand to halt my warriors, and we stood for a while. Then...
"ARROWS READY!" I shouted in Sindarin, and the warriors now had their arrows steadily drawn onto their bows. "FIRE A VOLLEY!"
A huge wave of elvish arrows flew past my face and straight into the frontline of the orcs. They fell dead.
"HOLD!"
The orcs growled in anger again and began to advance. With another yell I ordered the army to fire again, and it brought down the secondary line of orcs. But before I could repeat it, the orcs were too close in range. "SWORDS!" I bellowed, and there was the loud noise of blades being unsheathed all at once. "Stay with me, Legolas." I muttered, and Legolas nodded. Then the warriors yelled and swung their blades forwards. The battle had begun.
I plunged my blade into the nearest orc and swung round, doing the same to the next. Legolas was furiously swinging his knives at the orcs' heads and it was then I realised I had deeply underestimated his skill in battle. He was phenomenal.
There were horrible screeches of nearby orcs being slain, and to my terror, the sound of a few of my warriors screaming. This was going to turn into a brutal battle, and I had yet to keep hope for my army as more of them fell dead on the floor, orc blades embedded in their chests.

[Melathwen]

I fired twice on my father's command, but before we had chance to fire again the orcs were too close. Slinging my bow on my back I drew both knives. They were shorter than swords, requiring that I be closer to the enemy to wound or kill, but they were more deadly, especially since there were two of them. I had no time to watch my father as I engaged orc after orc, coming away without a scrath and leaving orcs dead on the floor. I had trained hard with my knives, and now all that training was paying off. I spun and dodged, blades whirling too fast to see as more orcs fell, their throats neatly slit.

Blood was everywhere, dark, orc blood mostly, but here and there a crimson stream ran, coming from dead elven warriors. I wanted to weep for all the women whose husbans wouldn't return, all the children who would lose fathers, but now was definitely not the time. Stuffing the emotion as far away as it would go, I continued to fight. My natural elven reflexes kept many blades from me, and my grace and speed allowed me to slip quickly under guards, slit throats and dip out again to avoid the blade as the orc wielding it fell. I tried to stay close to my father, but the orcs drove us apart. I found Randomir, though, and stayed close to him. I prayed that my father was safe.

[Onilalle]

I stabbed a nearby orc, its black blood trickling thickly down the hilt of my sword and onto my hands. Blast it, the orcs had driven my son and I apart! I could not see him anywhere, and I prayed to Eru that he was alright. If I lost him then I would lose everything. I kept going however, trying hard not to think of all the families that would be torn apart. That hurt my heart to think of it, for I cared for my people.

A good hour passed. The battle had killed many orcs, but had also killed some of my warriors. I glanced in dismay at the dead bodies of elves... it was almost unbearable. Legolas was visible now, frantically slashing his knives here and there, slicing off orcs' heads. I turned to see Taraldur... and gasped in horror as he was cut down before my eyes. The orc that killed him roared with triumph. That was it. I yelled and sprinted up to the offending orc, bringing my sword up and brining it down as fast as my arms would allow. The orc's head was cleaved in two and it fell limply to the floor. I had no time to go to Taraldur's body; a second orc had seen me and taken a blow at my head. I ducked just in time, but as I came back up it had swung the flat edge of its blade at my legs and my knees buckled, making me fall to the floor. I heard my son's voice but could not understand what he was shouting. The orc growled malevolently and appeared to be grinning in the most vulgar way, its hideous mottled green teeth in view. I kept my gaze on it as it brought its sword down.

I waited for the deadly blow to penetrate my body, but it did not come. I looked up and found the orc not standing over me, but lying dead at my side, an elven arrow embedded in the centre of its neck. A few feet away, the elf that took it down stood above its corpse. The long black hair looked familiar. Then I knew. To my surprise, it was Lustelvive.
“Why aren’t you upstairs?” I yelled, but she ran away. I leapt to my feet and continued fighting, catching sight of Legolas slaying another orc nearby. He looked at me in relief, then kept on going. Randomir was near him, so I felt slightly more at ease about that. But no sooner had I slain another orc, I yelled in agony as I felt a cold blade slash at my right side. I staggered backwards and saw an orc striding forwards, his blade stained with crimson. I clutched my side and swung my sword, hacking off its head before he could finish his work. I felt blood trickle down my wrist as I held my side gingerly, but I knew it would not do a lot of damage. Nevertheless, I felt dizzy and the wound was unbearably painful.
Many of the orcs remained but they appeared to be going down by the second. I looked at Legolas, who was now, to my anger, sporting a nasty gash in his left upper arm. But he carried on fighting, and I intended to join him. So I ran, though in agony, over to where he was and began to fight again.

[Melathwen]

As the battle dragged on, weariness began to overtake me, but I refused to let it rule me. I sighed with relief as I saw my father get up again, but in that moment of letting my guard down, an orc managed to slip beneath my guard and scored a light gash down my left arm. It was prevented doing further damage by Randomir, who hewed it's head off. I shot my thanks at him before slaying another orc. The gash hurt, and slowed my left arm a little, but it was not serious, and I could easily continue fighting.

I saw my father get wounded, and anger crawled through my veins. Pain was forgotten, weariness forgotten, I seemed on fire. I leapt at orcs, separating heads form bodies before they even had time to register I was close enough to be a threat. Elven warriors stared at me in awe, but were quickly drawn back to the fighting. I was invincible, and orc bodies lay at my feet, but there were always more orcs, always more that needed to feel my blades enter their flesh, striking head from body and killing them. It was all too easy for an elf against orcs; they were clumsy beings, hadn't the acute senses I had nor the reaction times, and I slew orc after orc. Adrenalin flew through my veins, and the only things I was aware of were my knives, and the orcs in front of me that needed my knives driven through their necks.

[Etaina]

I grasped at the sword and it sewn through the orcs body and the King catching sight of me yelled for my obstinance yet hearing a fell cry through the air I leapt away from my King and onward to another male elf as he struggled against a flurry of gnashing rugged orcs and so weilding my elven blade clear above my head it swept through a yellow toothed orc who shuddered to fall upon the ground.
Earlier on the pretance of fetching water I had snuck out from the tower and returned to my rooms changing into my archers gear and making a grab for my long daggers wedged in the sides of my long boots. Checking an inward snigger I gave an absent shrug: I hope they weren't thirsty.
Looking about I saw the Prince wounded and the King also yet still they fought gallantly driving the enemy back feirce and determined with brilliant pride.
After slaying the never ending onslaughts of orcs I eventually found myself standing idily by the Princes side covering his left flank with incessant shoots of numerous arrows singing from my bow.

[Onilalle]

Legolas looked furious. He was slashing at orcs like I’d never seen him do before, and he shouted every time he took one down. I was amazed at my son’s skills, and I knew he would be an extraordinary fighter when he was older. I suppressed a cry of pain as I swung my sword at the next orc, my side stinging terribly. The orcs fell rapidly, but many were left. I fought once again by Legolas, and looked up in surprise as Lustelvive, who was fighting at the far side of the hall, shrieked something that I could not quite make out. Then a few seconds passed and I now understood. I stared in shock as an enormous orc came lumbering into the hall, holding a huge torch of orange flame.
“Legolas, shoot it!” I yelled, but it was too late. The orc raised its torch to one of the colossal tapestries hanging from the ceiling and lying against the wall, and it caught alight. Legolas’ arrow managed to bring the orc down, but the flames had already begun to spread rapidly. Soon enough, they had reached the wooden beams of the ceiling and set the top of the hall on fire. Frantic yells came from the warriors, but triumphant roars emitted the mouths of the few orcs that were left. I gazed at the flames broadening in astonishment; they had now exceeded the ceiling and begun to travel around the walls. The remaining orcs bolted for it and left for the grounds. The hall was ablaze, and had become extremely hot; sweat was pouring down the faces of the warriors and I decided it was time to go.

“GET OUT OF THE HALL!” I shouted. “HEAD FOR THE GROUNDS!”
The warriors began to run out of the hall, all but Legolas, Randomir, Raniean, Trelan, Lustelvive and myself.
“Get the women and elflings out into the grounds!” I panted. “I suggest you take them no lower than the third floor. Throw out all the bed mattresses for them to land on… they have no alternative but to jump. Lustelvive, you come with me into the grounds- we have to try and evacuate the elves… we’ve no choice but to flee Dol Guldur and make for the north of Greenwood!”

[Melathwen]

I nodded quickly and raced for the nearest stairs, followed by Raniean and Randomir. We raced up stairs and along corridors, finally reaching the door where Trelan still stood guard, and I pushed the door open.

'Don't panic,' I called into the calm that fell as soon as they recognised me. Exclamations were made over my injury, but my voice cut through it. 'I need calm obedience from you. The hall is burning, you must go down to the third floor, find a bedroom and throw the mattress out of the window. Jump down onto the mattress, groups of warriors will be waiting to protect you. We are fleeing to the north of Greenwood. Raniean, Randomir, Trelan and I will help you with the mattresses. If you split into four groups, one will come with each of us and we will see you safely out. Now follow me.'

I led them down to the third floor, where those with the youngest split off into a room with several soft mattresses, and Rondomir began throwing them out of the window, helped by a few of the stronger women. At the next bedroom, Trelan took a third of those left, and at the next Raniean half. That left me with about a hundred women and twice as many elflings or young elves to get out of the window in the room I chose. Hefting the mattress to the window, my arm began to throb painfully, but I ignored it. I tossed the mattress to the ground, helped by a dozen of the stronger women, and directed them to jump out, pairing each woman with two elflings. The process seemed infinitely slow, and smoke began to creep under the door. I flung the other windows open and stuffed the coverlets under the door, yelling at the women to hurry. At last there were only a dozen women left, with two dozen children, but before the next trio could jump, the coverlets I had stuffed under the door caught fire, and quickly consumed the carpet.

'To the window! Jump, now, all of you together!' I yelled. They hurried out, clambering up onto the sill and hauling elflings up. I passed up the last, and was climbing onto the windowsill myself, when the wall caught fire. I hurled myself out and missed the mattress completely. I heard a crunch as I landed on my arm, and pain shot up through my shoulder. I had never broken anything before, but I knew immediately what I had done. My father hurried over, but I waved him away, clutching my arm to my chest. 'Take the women and children away from here, and see that the orcs are slain,' I told him. 'I will be fine,' I lied.

My arm hurt worse than anything I had ever felt before, but I pushed the pain away and forced myself to do what had to be done. I herded the women and children away from the burning palace, glad that I still had my bow with me. I would have hated to lose it. Warriors were shooting the last of the fleeing orcs, and women and children were gathering together, mothers looking for children and husbands, lovers looking for each other, but we had no time for that now. My father at the front and me at the back, we pushed our people away from the burned ruins of the Palace north, to safety.

[Onilalle]

I shouted behind me at the group to hurry, but it went no faster. Many of the women were dragging behind them on bits of mattress the forms of injured elves, who were groaning in pain. I looked back and prayed to Eru that my son was not seriously hurt, yet I couldn’t help but feel he was just being over-brave. His arm looked damaged to me the last time I’d seen it, and I was worried that it was broken. Nevertheless, I knew we’d be able to sort that out as soon as we were far enough away from the danger.
All of a sudden though, I felt a little tug at the hem of my cloak. I looked down only to see a small face staring up at me, her silvery hair a mess and a shallow cut across her cheek. The tiny girl looked very distressed so I hauled her up into my arms and carried on walking, every now and then calling back to the enormous group to keep going.

When the crowd reached the top of the hill I knew we were safe for now. We stopped to let ourselves get our breath back, and looked back over the hill to the palace in ruins. I gazed in misery at the grounds, for they were now completely ablaze. Once tall, regal trees were engulfed in flame and many were felled. There were no signs of any orcs; I figured the last of them must have either been shot or had a lucky escape.
I then made my way, with the elfling still in my arms, down to the back of the group where Legolas was standing, overlooking the palace encompassed in flames. He was holding the hand of a familiar child; it looked to me as if it was Elverion. I lay my free hand on my son’s shoulder, and he merely continued to stare solemnly at the ruin that was the woodland realm of Dol Guldur. He had never seen a fire spread like this, and I wondered how upset he was inside to see his home like this.
“How long will it take to rebuild a kingdom?” questioned Legolas miserably. I sighed and lowered my head.
“That I cannot say.” I muttered. “If we are beyond helpless then I shall have no choice but to call for aid. We shall endure this dark time, and we will survive the worst that will come to us. If, that is to say, we suffer the worst.”
I smiled vaguely at Legolas, who just about managed the tiniest smirk. I set the little girl in my arms down on the ground and turned to her.
“Where are your parents, little one?” I asked softly. She looked down.
“Ada is gone.” She whispered. “And I do not know where mama is.”
“Shall we try and find her then?” I said with a smile, and she nodded. I turned to my son. “I’ll be back in a moment, Legolas; I need to give the women and children a chance to find their family… if they indeed have any left.”
Legolas nodded and I set off with the young elfling. Eventually she and her mother were reunited and I returned to the back of the group to Legolas. He too seemed very distressed, and little Elverion was sitting on the ground in tears. This was terrible; I’d never thought this would bring so much death and sorrow. I winced as my side began to twinge painfully as I stepped up beside Legolas.
“Your arm.” I said, taking a look at it. “You’ve injured it badly, son… are you in much pain?”

[Melathwen]

'No, ada... the healers! Did anyone get them out? Their rooms are separated from the Palace, they may not have caught yet.' The thought hit me like thunder; there was that maiden I had saved in the healers' care, I had to see if I could get to them. Without waiting for my father's response, I sprinted off, around the palace and into the healers wing. I heard my father call after me, but I ignored him. I had to get the healers out. 'The palace is burning, you must all leave,' I told them.

There was immediate activity; healers grabbed pouches of herbs and stuffed them into bags which they slung over their backs. Others grabbed the patients, there were only three. I went over to the bed of the maiden I had saved, and would have picked her up, but I remembered my arm just in time. Instead of picking her up, I helped her out of bed and wrapped her arm around my shoulders, helping her struggle from the room. Others were already leaving, and the flames were licking around the door frame. We needed to get out.

'My Prince!' one of the healers called, 'You are hurt!' He came over to me, but I waved him off. Others needed him to help them out and I could walk fine.

'Help the others, I am fine. We need to get out,' I told him. Reluctantly he nodded, and went to help an elf who appeared to have a broken leg. One healer was already helping, but they were struggling. I pulled the maiden along with me; she was barely conscious. Just as we left the healer's wing behind, I heard the roof collapse. I sighed, we were safe. I led the milling mass of healers around to where the rest of the people were, and they immediately began to help, bandaging wounds and easing pain.

I dropped to the ground with the maiden a little way away from the activity; I needed quiet. We leant together against the rough bark of a tree, and her eyes flickered all the way open.

'Who are you?' she asked, sounding dazed. I looked down at her, and swallowed a strangled gasp. She was beautiful, as beautiful as Lustelvive, but in a different way. Where Lustelvive's hair was black as night, this maiden's was the brightest gold, where Lustelvive's smoky eyes were grey, hers were deepest blue. Her gaze rested on my face, intent and questioning.

'I am Legolas,' I said eventually, 'Prince Legolas of Greenwood the Great. What is your name?' She seemed to tense when I said the word 'Prince', and did not relax at my question. Her eyes were unfathomable depths, her hair was distracting with its shine.

'My name is Melathwen,' she said, and her voice was soft. Even with elven hearing, I would not have heard her three paces away. 'Where are we?'

'Near the palace of Dol Guldur, which has just been burnt down,' I told her. I was going to ask her more, but was prevented by the approach of my father, Elverion hanging onto his hand, big brown eyes swimming in tears. I welcomed the boy into my arms, well, arm, and listened to my father. He was not best pleased.

[Onilalle]

“Legolas!” I exclaimed as soon as he came into my sight again, holding the maiden we had seen earlier and being followed by numerous healers and wounded elves. Elverion was howling by now and had been ever since Legolas had left him. “You… you…”
I couldn’t believe it. Legolas would have been killed! I would have been furious, but the fact that he had just gone back into a building completely swallowed up in flames, and retrieved injured patients from a vulnerable healer’s ward made me think otherwise.
“Legolas, that was foolish! You run back into a burning palace with a broken arm even after I told you not to…” I paused, a smile creeping up my face. “…And dear Eru, you are the bravest elf I have seen in all the millennia I have lived on middle earth.”

[Etaina]

I winced as an earlier cut wedged deep within my waist spintering through my fickle elven arhcers clothing as I walked somewhat bitterly to pause where I saw Prince Legolas conversing with an incredibly fair maiden and yet he seemed bewtiched - almost intent as they locked gazes and thier was comparison in his eyes. Could it be? I thought faintly as the familar pang of rejection mourned somnrely in my stomach heightened by my mothers death. I had seen her body swamped beside some orcs which she'd slain right until the last , her face such a picture of mine that it was positively frightening. Searching for the King whom stood somewhat close by his son I paused before him, inclining my head with a slow bow.
" Your grace" I almost whispered lifting my misted pericing eyes filled with sombre regret.
" My life is to serve you now as my mother did"
" Did?" he asked tentatively as my hands trembled sligtly hung loose by my side.
" She is fallen" i said simply though the force of it might as well have slain me there and then with such an overpowering grief that it threatened to divulge me and yet rising my head despitye both physical and mental pain I continued
" Ask me to do something and I shall do it. I have no other master now" when chancing an impenetrable gaze to the Prince and then looking back to the King I awaited his answer.

[Onilalle]

I gazed sadly at the forlorn maiden. I felt for her- I really did. I certainly did not wish for her to feel dejected.
“Lustelvive,” I soothed, putting a hand around her shoulders, “I am so sorry your mother has fallen. Please, do not despair. I will do anything I can to help you; all you have to do is ask for it when you need it. I shall put you in place of one of my high advisors… he has fallen as well. I won’t ask you to perform any arduous deeds for now; it would be insensitive for me to put any more burdens upon your shoulders, lady.”
Lustelvive gazed at me, her beautiful eyes sparkling. Legolas seemed well occupied with the fair-haired maiden so I decided to leave him where he was for a moment. Attempting to comfort Lustelvive as best I could, I held her tight with the arm I had free and stood there with her for a while, letting her calm herself down.

[Melathwen]

I watched my father comfort Lustelvive, and was struck with the beauty of both maidens; the one I held, and the one my father held. I had no futhrer chance for reflection, however, as several healers rushed up to me, demanding they see my arm. I let them, reluctantly. Even I had to admit that it hurt.

'We will have to set this, Your Highness,' said one of them. I nodded and ground my teeth, telling them to just get on with it. I suppressed my cry of pain as the bone clicked back into place, though I knew my face was pale and sweat was running down it in rivulets. Once set, they bound my arm tightly and put it in a sling; I would be unable to shoot for weeks.

[Onilalle]

I looked over, Lustelvive’s shoulder still snugly under my arm, at Legolas. He was wincing in clear pain as the healers began to sort out his broken arm. I wished I could have helped him, but I had not the heart to leave Lustelvive so abruptly. She looked almost distraught, and I had no business to go and tell the healers how to do their job. As they put my son’s arm in a sling, I felt awful. He wouldn’t be able to do any archery for a long time and that was what he depended on. Especially if he were to come across anything menacing on the way to north Greenwood… I decided I would help him along in that aspect.
I turned back to Lustelvive. “Are you alright?” I asked tentatively. “You look flushed. We’ll be off in a few minutes, but we’ll be stopping again. If you really feel terrible I can get the healers to sort you out…”

[Melathwen]

Once my arm was set, I ordered the healers to see to Melathwen, whose wounds had begun to bleed again in our mad dash out of the healers wing. They wanted to bind up the gash on my other arm, but it was only shallow and Melathwen's hurts were more grievous. In the end, I agreed to let one healer stay and tend to me while the others went to Melathwen. It had taken three of them to set my arm. My father came over just as the healer tied the bandage off.

'That was very brave, what you did, Legolas, but it was also foolhardy,' he said. I bowed my head, I should really have sent someone else to rescue them, but I had not thought of that. 'Nevertheless, I am proud of you, and you have done well this day. As soon as you are ready, we should move on.'

'Father, should we not wait until all the elves are capable of being moved? More than I were injured, and it would be unfair to move just because I am able when there are half a dozen who cannot,' I said. Ada looked thoughtful, but in the end he agreed.

'You are right. When they are able to move, we shall continue on a little way, until we find a place suitable to camp in. I know you won't like this, Legolas,' he said, lowering his voice, 'but until you can shoot again, I think you should have a guard.'

'What?!' I yelped, outraged. A guard? 'I don't need guards, father.'

'Yes, you do,' he said, in the tone that told me arguing would be fruitless. 'You cannot shoot since your right arm is in a sling, and you left arm is bandaged so you cannot wield even a knife. You will have a guard, though you may pick them. You must have two, at least.'

'Well, if I am to have a guard, so should you,' I told him. 'You are wounded also, father, in case you had not noticed, and also unable to fight well. If I have a guard of two, so do you. And I will have Raniean and Trelan,' I said. I rather suspected that he knew I would have picked those two, from the smile that spread across his face.

'Very well, I shall have two also. I will have Randomir and Garillon, since he is head of palace security anyway, and from now on, the palace is where we are.' I nodded, satisfied. Though I would hate having a guard, it being Raniean and Trelan would not be so bad, and it had convinced father to have one as well. We would both be a safe as it was possible to be in Mirkwood.

[Onilalle]

I was glad Legolas finally agreed to having a guard. It would make it a lot less dangerous for him as he was unable to shoot. But in secret I wished I had not agreed to have two of my own. I felt stupid. After all, the worst injury I had received from the battle was a cut, not a broken arm, therefore I was still able to fight. Yes, the cut was deep and painful, but it did not prevent me from moving. I was starting to think, after all the things I’d said to Legolas, he was beginning to worry too much about me. And this was not me worrying about him; this was common sense… his arm would stop him fighting altogether and without a guard he would probably not survive if he met something evil along the way.
I sighed and decided to pass a bit of time away by sitting with some of the lonely elflings; a few of which were still crying. It pained me to see them upset, so I sat next to a couple of children who were huddled up against each other. They looked up at me, slightly intimidated, but they soon calmed down as I began talking to them reassuringly.

Five minutes passed, and Lustelvive had joined me. Many of the healers had still to attend to injured elves, and Legolas was keeping Elverion engaged in conversation. The atmosphere had composed itself a little; many elves had stopped their continuous sobbing and were helping the healers with the warriors’ wounds.

[Etaina]

I was inexpressibly grateful for the King's compassion but the wound causing a chasum in my spirits and wedging deep to gloat over the survivours happinesses as they sought thier parents drew such bitterness that I had never felt before.
I felt empty and lost as if all life had been sucked clear from my body and left only a walking carcus in its place lost and alone in an all comsuming greif. Legolas saw to it that Melathwen's wounds were looked to before his own and in this case I knew actions spoke louder then words. Stifling a sob I continued to either stand behind my King or help with the wounded, wrapping bandages about bloodied limbs with no more thought on my part save for the person I was treating.
How could it be that I was alone - again still young myself and learning while all those around me grew close to thier parents while mine burned next to pityless orcs unworthy of thier presance.
It was almost as if there would be no light again: as if I would fade there and then bound my grief to wonder in solitude hesitant to express my gratitude as I felt to be a mere burden to the King and an even bigger one to the Prince whom had treated me with blunt coldness that I could think there could be no other reason then his dislike for me.
And so it was. I strode unseeing milling amoungst the elves fearful of shutting my eyes for fear of shadows and so lingering forlornly by the King's side I awaited any futher orders.

[Melathwen]

I saw the glances Lustelvive threw at me while she was helping the wounded or standing near my father. I could not help it, but my heart went out to her. I knew she had lost both parents, and I knew what losing a parent was like. Making a quick decision, I checked that Melathwen was being cared for; she was asleep, and headed over to Lustelvive. Her head came up as she saw me approach and she fixed me with a glare even I would have been pushed to rival.

'Lustelvive, I cannot live like this. I know you must think I dislike you, but the only reason I was so cold and distant with you was because I did like you, but was not ready to face it. I pushed emotion away from me so that I could deal with the events and do what had to be done, and that always makes me distant and cold, but it is no excuse. You did not deserve to be treated that way and I am truly sorry for it. Will you forgive me?' I asked apprehensively. I would value her good opinion, and I didn't want to lose it, not that I had gained it in the first place, but I did not want to be at odds with her.

'What about that maiden you saved? I saw the way you looked at her,' she replied, and I winced. I was confused; I liked Lustelvive, but I liked Melathwen, too. I did not have time to sort my feelings out there, it would have to wait until we reached somewhere more permanent and my people were safe.

'It is true that I like her, too, but can I not like both of you? I say 'like', Lustelvive, and it is no more. In time, it may come to be, with either one of you, but for the present, I like you both and would be friends with you both. Do not complicate things, please. I have no time right now to be worrying about love; I am needed by my father to help get our people to safety, and I can think about little else till that is done. Will you forgive me and be my friend?'

[Etaina]

I listened intently to his words and several times my tongue betrayed me shedding harsh words where they were perhaps not earned and so as he finished listessly awaiting my reply, I bit my lip hesitantly. Credit must be given where its due, I shrugged: he had admitted his earlier coldness and apoligised for it and there too perhaps was some empathy in his gaze as I knew full well he had lost a parent also.
Sighing submissively I could not bare more agro on top of my lot and was even less willing to cause it to others. My primary concern now was that of the King's people and in that perhaps we could be unified and so nodding slowly my voice sounded distant but warm as rain on a summer's night.
" I accept your apoligy my Prince: I would be honoured to be notified as your friend" and so placing a hand to my heart and inclining my head I could not yet know if all distance between us had banished for I was still clinging to the grief of my parents death but I hoped sincerly that we truly could be friends: better then nothing I reasoned meeting his gaze with less animosity then before as it was replaced by gentle warmth.
" So" I began
" What happens now to all these people? Where will we all go now that we've fled our home?"

[Onilalle]

I looked over at Legolas and Lustelvive, and I smiled softly to myself as I saw them talking as good friends would every day. Still, I had not the time to hesitate much longer. I realised that most of the injured elves had been treated, and the rest of them were merely sitting on the ground. I had to get them going now; though I could be certain every orc had fled I could not be certain that more dark minions of Sauron would be making their way to Rhovanion by now. So I stood up and began to rouse the elves, and they all looked solemnly up.
"I presume the wounded are all seen to?" I began, and the healers nodded. "Then we must make haste towards the north of Greenwood, near the old forest road which lies just south of the small mountain range. Those of you who know the route well shall come to the front of the group, while those who don't shall try and stay with us at all times. Whatever you do, do not stray out of the company, for there are too many dangers for an elf to be alone in the wilderness of middle Greenwood. So long as we stay together, we have less chance of losing more lives. Is everyone ready?"
The elves nodded rather apprehensively and helped the injured up to their feet. Legolas stepped up beside me as we began to set off.
"Son," I said, "are you joining the front of the group with Lustelvive and I, or would you rather take care of the back?"

[Melathwen]

'I will join the back, father, to see that there are no stragglers, but there was something I wanted to ask you first.' I knew there would be a wicked gleam in my eye, and I avoided looking at Raniean and Trelan, for I knew the three of us would then burst out laughing. My father raised a slight eyebrow in question, but I kept my face impassive.

'What would that be?' he asked, evidently highly suspicious of my intentions. A grin spread across my face as I made a great pretense of looking around.

'I do not see Randomir or Garillon in a place from which they may act as your guards. In fact, I doubt you have even spoken to them, have you, ada?' I asked. From his guilty look, I could tell that he hadn't. 'Randomir! Garillon!' I called. The two elves came trotting up, bowing breifly before falling in next to me. 'My father wishes for you to guard him. After all, he took a wound in the battle and cannot be counted upon to fight as well as usual. I, too, have guards. Will you do this for him?' I asked sweetly, casting sidelong glances at Raniean and Trelan. Both were doing their utmost not to laugh. I gave them a wide grin, smiled as I saw them smother more laughter, and turned back to my father, who was glaring daggers at me. I smiled sweetly and left him to talk with Randomir and Garillon.

[Onilalle]

I looked uneasily at Randomir and Garillion, who continued to stand in front of me with questioning looks on their faces. My son... that cheeky elf! I was not wounded as badly as he was after all, so why was it his job to make sure I had guards? I was perfectly capable by myself... I was king of Greenwood! No, this time I wouldn't do it. I looked at the two 'guards', and straightened up. Big mistake. As I did so, my side twinged violently and I arduously surpressed a wince. I stood close enough to Randomir so he could just hear my whisper.
"Look," I said quietly, "My son is over-reacting. By all means stick close to me if I need assistance, but please... don't bother yourselves with this 'guard' business. I'm capable at the moment."
Randomir glanced at Garillion and raised his brow. "The prince said you were unable to fight well..."
"Have I not clarified it enough?" I hissed, making sure I was out of earshot of Legolas. "I do not need someone to follow in my every step just to make sure I am fighting up to standard! From now on if your king needs assistance, you follow in the king's command, is that clear?"
Randomir and Garillion bowed their heads uncertainly and turned to make their way to the front of the group. I sighed exasperatedly; I felt bad for doing this but it really wasn't necessary. I appreciated Legolas' concern but he really was going over his limit, and I had to remind him now and then of it.
I walked to the front of the group where I met with Lustelvive, who was still looking very distained. I gave a weak smile, which she returned vaguely, and I began to lead the group out of the burning wood.

[Melathwen]

At the back of the group, I was well placed to watch Melathwen, who had been put on one of the few horses we had saved, since she had difficulty walking. She rode with grace, despite her wounds, and I felt acute relief that I had managed to save her and the healers. Raniean and Trelan walked beside me, conversing too low for me to hear unless I concentrated, but Melathwen's slender back distracted me too much. Eventually, they stopped talking and walked in silence for a while, casting sidelong glances at me that they probably thought passed unnoticed.

'What are you looking at me for?' I asked exasperatedly, as Raniean gave me a particularly long glance. He looked startled, and proved that they had thought they were unnoticed. They should try sitting in a throne once in a while. You notice a lot of things from that position. You have to, if you want to rule well.

'Just curious,' he said evasively. I didn't buy it; they were up to something, and I wanted to find out what. I had a suspicion, and I didn't like it. Not one bit.

'Curious about what, Ran?' I asked him, smiling sweetly. They usually bought that smile, though I had no idea why; it should have been obvious. Well, I didn't really care, so long as it worked. I would find out what they were hiding.

[Onilalle]

I led the huge group over the highest point of the hill. Looking back, I took a last miserable glance at the ruins of the palace before turning back around, and the sight was no more.
We walked along a safer road from the kingdom. I estimated, if my points were right, that we would be out of Dol Guldur in most of a day or less. It wouldn't be too bad; there were places we could rest and even tiny families of wood elves dwelled in isolated buildings throughout Greenwood... but I could not absolutely determine whether they were charitable or even trustworthy enough. Which was why I insisted it was vital that the group stayed together.

It was arduous work trying to bear the shooting pains in my side. Though it had been treated and cleansed, the wound was still deep and incredibly sore. Yet I kept my composure as we walked through the enormous clearing and into the darkened, coniferous trees in the middle of the kingdom. I heard small, meek whimpers from some of the elflings as the group passed into deepening shadow, and I presumed they were very frightened. The poor things had never been outside the palace grounds, and the shadow that was beginning to loom eerily over the forest was enough to intimidate any elf. Especially our kind, who greatly care for beauty and above all, good light. Well… enough light to see our way, at least.

But as we neared the deeper parts of Dol Guldur, I widened my eyes warily. The vast shadow appeared to have grown ever darker and it started to look likely that it was nearing dusk. We had to find some source of light… and fast. But how would we make a fire? I certainly did not wish to fell any trees, and Legolas definitely would have felt the same way, for he had a great love of trees. I looked around the darkened wood, straining my bright eyes for any means of making some sort of light.

[Melathwen]

I tried to evade the Prince's questions; after all, there had been two reasons Trel and I were watching him. He was badly injured, and we both wanted to be sure he was well. Watching him carefully, I saw him give a tiny wince at each step, and I supposed it must be jarring his arm. He hid it well, if I had not known him as well was I did, I would not have noticed. As well as his injury, we wanted to find out how he felt about Melathwen. Sometimes, he seemed to care for her a great deal, yet others... Sometimes it was as if he came to himself, and realised what he was doing, where he was, and he would give himself the tiniest of shakes and, for a time, stop watching her. Yet after a while, his eyes inevitably drifted back to her slender form, swaying in rhythum with the horse.

Then there was Lustelvive. Whenever she was around, his eyes flicked from one to the other, as if he couldn't make up his mind. We'd all appreciated some of the finer beauties of the court, all had our share of kisses and cuddles, yet this seemed... deeper, somehow. More like what we could see between adult elves, elves who were married. More like it, yet not like it. He was... Legolas. He was unique, in everything he did. After being taught all his teachers knew, he had even made up his own fighting techniques, techniques none in the kingdom could beat, though many tried. He never did things the way others did, always tried something new. The surest way to get him to do something was to tell him it couldn't be done. Even if he didn't manage it, he would try. Very often he did manage it.

'What do you think, Ran?' Trelan asked me. His eyes were flickering between Legolas, and what Legolas was looking at; Melathwen. My eyes followed his, and I almost snorted. Legolas had the most peculiar look on his face. He was normally hard-faced, closed, you couldn't read anything from it unless you knew him well. That was a result from his childhood, a skill he had picked up by necessity. Now, however, his face had softened, and there was the strangest expression in his eyes. I couldn't identify it, but I was fairly certain of the possible outcomes.

'I don't know, Trelan. It looks very like, but do you really think he's capable of it? He's always been so cold, he never lets emotion show,' I answered. It seemed incredible, too ludicrous to believe, yet it seemed also to be the only answer. I looked back at Trelan, and was surprised to see his face contorted in something akin to... studiousness. That was a look I had never seen on him before.

'I know. I suppose we will just have to wait and see. The answer will come eventually, whatever it may be,' he sighed. I agreed with him; Legolas would not talk, and we could not make him. We would have to wait. It was frustrating, though. Ever since we became best friends, we had shared everything, witholding nothing, ever, except that ordeal Legolas had gone through, but that had been born of fear. In everything else, we had been perfectly truthful with each other. Now, all that was changed. Just like our lives.

[Onilalle]

Looking from left to right, I could hear murmurs coming from the crowd. I could not see Legolas as he was at the back of the group, and I began to grow slightly anxious about that. I had to keep telling myself that Raniean and Trelan were there with him, yet that did not ease my concern an awful lot. All three had their backs turned to nothingness by now; the forest was only a few minute's walk away from total darkness. I decided, as we had been walking for over three hours now, that we should rest for the night. The elflings were groaning irritably and the wounded looked about to fall asleep on their horses. So I motioned with my hand for the group to halt. Every elf got the idea and began to sit down.
"Right," I said wearily, "We shall rest here for the night; I want some of the fitter elves to go on watch and do shifts. That way everyone will get a rest. I shall send Randomir and Garillion around at dawn to awaken the group. Now stay in this part of the wood and we shall be safe. Right, on first watch will be Raniean, Garillion, Elemir, Alrenion and I. You'll be swapping round after the first two hours or so."
The elves I had instructed to stay awake nodded and took their places around the group. I checked everyone was settled, then with an agonised grimace I sat down on a large, nearby tree root. I felt incredibly weary by now, but I didn't dare go to sleep. I couldn't. Something in my mind kept my eyelids from drooping, yet I did not quite know what it was, for it certainly was not the fact that I had to stay on watch...

[Etaina]

I settled myself near my King stringant to the night clamouring almost choking about us and taking the brush from my back began to systematically smooth it through my hair with an absent sigh so that it shimmered over a single shoulder, almost blending with the night itself. The wound at my waist was healing though the process was marred by obvious still evident grief and the memory of my mother's face before she had perished - the pride that shone still in those eyes unseeing and unblinking as they swivelled to rest on me. I would never that day.
I inhaled deeply casting surrepticious glances about me. The elflings were huddled to their parents wearied from hours of non stop walking while the more youthful elves were put on watch and thier shillouettes grew misty in the fading light. I had been silent through most of the way lost in my own musings or attending almost mechanically to the needs of the wounded as they trudged in thier numbers behind the King. Yet still we had managed to save a considerable almost whole amount of the elves that were staying in the palace and that was a feat in itself. Legolas usually hard faced and distant was openly admirous of Melathwen and I couldn't help but supress a grin - it was quite a change and so fearing the outcome I decided to think on something else: anything else other then that. King Thranduil had been excruciatingly kind to me on our journey and I owed my practical sanity for he kept me busy and talking to waylay my grief and perhaps in time, I would be able to repay him. Yet now as my eyelids closed upon world weary grey eyes I thought of nothing save the lulling peace of rest.

[Melathwen]

Raniean and Trelan were annoying, me, and I was thankful when my father called a halt. Raniean went on watch, with instructions to wake Trel at his turn. I smiled, knowing they would also wake me, although they would try not to, and I would be able to take my own turn at watch. After all, you did not need to have two working arms to watch.

Settling myself against a tree, I leant back, and watched the stars through the flickering branches. The sky was thick with them, and they made a beautiful sight. Slowly, sleep crept down over me, and I shifted my arm onto my chest, where it could rest comfortably. At least, more comfortably than elsewhere. It still hurt, but the ache was growing less.

The night was soft, and as I felt sleep take me, I heard, distantly, the humming of a comforting tune. It sounded like my father, like the melody my mother used to sing to me, when I was small, to make me go to sleep. But my father hadn't known it. Had he?

[Onilalle]

I sat comfortably on the root, and I started to hum quietly to pass some time away because I knew I would not be able to get to sleep for a while. It was an old melodic song I used to hear my wife sing to Legolas at his tender infant age. I smiled as I remembered her face, and it shone in my mind as clearly as any picture. Elbereth wouldn’t know how much I missed her.
Not a stir came from any of the slumbering elves, and I only heard the steady, soft breathing of Lustelvive, who was resting nearby. I smiled mellifluously again as I looked at her; her eyes were peacefully closed and she looked very contented indeed, so I thought best not to disturb her further with my humming. I turned back around and leant against the tree, not closing my eyes, for my swimming mind simply would not allow me to sleep. I also reminded myself of my duties concerning the watch over the group. I hoped Legolas was asleep by now; he’d been through far too much today, and I felt for him. I hated to see my son distressed, for it brought dismay into my heart as well.

Another two hours passed us by, yet the forest was still encompassed in darkness. But a peculiar atmosphere came over the wood where we were resting; the air had grown slightly humid and warm. This concerned me, for Greenwood had never experienced this sort of atmosphere; it was usually either dry and breezy or cold and wintry. I turned my head slightly, yet I couldn’t see a lot. I narrowed my eyes in perplexity. What had happened to make it so unusually humid? Carefully avoiding my wound, I gingerly slipped off my heavy outer robe and undid the top two buttons in my tunic. This was incredibly unusual…
Then my astute ears pricked up as a vile sound came, muffled and faint in the darkness. My eyes widened and my heart started to beat harder. What in Eru’s name was that noise? I turned around and strained my delicate ears to try and catch that sound again…

[Melathwen]

As the time passed, I reflected on the situation. I don't think we had ever been in a worse. There had been times when famine took the forest, when flood destroyed things, but never before had we been forced right out of the palace, forced to flee from our land. I looked out at the forest; it appeared so peaceful, so calm, and that fire was only a memory, fading away in the face of the agelessness of the forest. For though individual trees might die, the forest ever renewed itself, it never died completely. I found my own peace in that. Even if we were forced from our palace, the forest would shelter us until we could build a new one. Every one of us was skilled in woodcraft, in hunting, in all the skills that would be needed. Of course, some were better than others, but it was a generally fair distribution. We would pull thorugh this.

Suddenly, I heard a faint humming, thready, yet soft and beautiful. It sounded strangely like the King, though that was almost too incredible to believe. I thought I recognised it, from some time in the distant past, or as distant as my past got. I am not very old, for an elf. It trailed slowly away, and we sat in silence once more, or relative silence; the forest is never truly silent. In that silence, shufflings and creepins became audible to an elf's ears, and the little noises of nighttime creatures. Slowly, so slowly I almost didn't realise it, they faded, faded to dull mutterings just on the edge of hearing.

In the increased silence, I though I heard something. Something that was definitely not natural. Wanting a second opinion on it, I crept to Trelan's side and shook him awake, he stirred and muttered before finally waking, but once I explained, in soft whispers that would not have carried five paces, he came fully awake and sat up, ears straining. The noise came again, and, slowly, Trelan nodded. His ears were better than mine, and I trusted his opinion. Just as I was about to rise and warn the King, Legolas approached us.

'Let me take a turn at watch,' he said, and crouched down next to us. His voice, too, was low, as if he didn't want to be overheard. Which, thinking about it, he probably didn't. He knew his father would still be awake, and if the King had anything to say about it, Legolas would sleep the entire night without stirring. Unless we were attacked.

'I didn't wake Trel for watch, Legolas,' I told him, and he looked at me, confusion glinting in the depths of his dark eyes. His blond hair shone faintly in the moonlight, and his own glow, stronger than mine or Trel's added together, lit his face sufficiently for me to see the stubborn determination melt into confusion and bewilderment.

'Then what did you wake him for?' he asked, voice sharp. I recoiled a little; it was not often that he used that tone with us, the tone of an annoyed Prince. I looked at Trel, silently, we decided I should tell, for although he had been the one to confirm it, I had heard it in the first place.

'I woke him for the spiders that are approaching us. You wait here, we will go and tell the King,' I said. He looked grumpy about it - but he obeyed. Startled, Trel and I walked away to tell the King what we had heard. That was when they attacked.

[Onilalle]

I whipped around so fast at the sudden noise that I very nearly yelled in pain; I had twisted my body so violently that I had probably split open the healing wound down my side. Breathing heavily, I winced and looked over to the right… and my eyes widened in horror.

Crouched into a threatening position at the far side of the group, bristly hair jabbed out from its numerous legs, was the enormous spider. I had seen many, but never this large in size. Lustelvive, who had just awakened, jerked her head up and gasped as she saw the spider. It leered at who I assumed was Trelan, and I hastily retrieved my bow and an arrow from the side of the tree. Taking aim, though it hurt my side, I took a shot at the loathsome beast and the arrow pierced the top of its head.

The spider stumbled backwards away from Trelan, and it screeched an unholy noise that I soon discovered would wake the entire group, and it did. Every elf sat up abruptly and a few screamed in terror, either springing to their feet or retrieving their weapons. A second arrow embedded itself in the spider’s abdomen, from which the shot I realised had come from Lustelvive. The spider that had been shot fell to the ground with a thud, presumably dead. But it was then I knew all was far from safe.

Without warning a second spider scuttled into the wood, then another, then another, and soon two more came… The first creature’s death had almost certainly alerted the others.
“Take the women, elflings and wounded away from here!” I bellowed at the panicking crowd. “Able-bodied elves will help us fend off these creatures!”
The elves followed the orders and started to flee from the wood. I caught sight of Legolas, and while I managed to shoot a second spider, I ran as fast as I could towards him, and Lustelvive I saw was close at my heels.
“Legolas, where are Raniean and Trelan?” I gasped, clutching my side, which had now begun to bleed again. “Son, you must follow the others to safety; you’re in no state to fight, with that arm out of action!”

[Melathwen]

'I thank you father, I hadn't noticed,' I said dryly. 'Raniean and Trelan left me to warn you of the spiders, I have no idea where they are now, probably fighting. You should not fight either, father, you are still wounded.' I knew my voice sounded far more calm than I felt; my incapability frustrated me, and my helpessness scared me. If a spider should corner me... I shivered, and pushed the thought away. My father looked at me like I must be mad, and perhaps I was, to expect him not to fight when he was, just, capable. Sighing, I turned and began herding women and children away, while the others stayed to fight. I was not pleased, but at least there was a duty I could perform, something useful.

[Onilalle]

Key: 'Dago han' = 'Kill it'

Legolas looked slightly petulant as he set off with the group, but I had to keep telling myself that it was for his own safety. After all… It wasn’t worry that drove me to say that; it was common sense.
I hurried back to the group of elves trying to fend off the spiders. Many were shooting arrows, but the creatures were incredibly fast. Hence the fact that the moment I turned around, I came face-to-face with one of them. Impulsively, I abandoned the idea of shooting it and unsheathed my sword, flinging it across the creature’s head, and I felt a horrid pain shoot through my ears as it let out a deafening screech… right in my face. The sheer pitch of that sound made my eardrums throb as it backed away; for a call that phenomenally loud to be done right next to an elf’s ear is like torture.
Gathering myself again, I punctured the abdomen of the spider in a quick movement and it fell dead. Turning around, I saw that a few creatures had been slain, but also, to my horror, two elves were limping, their legs drenched in blood. Great Eru… if these spiders had venom to kill then I was terrified for the lives of the elves in concern. Therefore, I ran as fast as my body would allow me to, though my side was in agony, towards the scene. I whipped out an arrow and shot the nearest spider, who was advancing on a fair-haired elf a few yards away.
But then I caught sight of Raniean, and my eyes widened. A spider, twice the size of the other ones, was crouched over him in a deadly position, its fangs bared. No sooner had I tried to go to him, another spider blocked the range of my arrow. As it moved away, presumably being taken care of by Trelan, I saw Raniean hacking fiercely at the creature’s head with his blade. It flinched, violently enough for Raniean to get to his feet anyway, but its incredible size made it increasingly difficult to down. It leered at Raniean again, and I hurtled towards the scene only to be blocked by the dead body of another huge spider flying in front of me. Raniean looked desperate, but swung his sword again at the creature’s body…
“Dago han!” I yelled at him. “Dago han!”

[Melathwen]

As I got back to my feet I heard the yells of my King to kill it, and I was doing my best, but it was increasingly hard. The thing was huge, and had already scored a light gash down my leg, rendering walking difficult. I limped around it and tried to slash at its head, but it was too quick for me. It would not have been had I been well rested and uninjured, but in the state I was in my reactions were just too slow. I danced out of the way of its fangs and tore the gash on my leg a little further, and cursed bitterly. I took defeat very ill and I should have been able to kill the thing fairly easily, but it kept on evading my slashes.

Suddenly it fell dead at my feet, and I looked up to see that Legolas stood with a bloodied knife in his hand, the one that was not in the sling. He had torn the gash that ran down that arm open again, but he had killed to spider and saved my life. I sprang the rest of the way to my feet from where the spider had been pushing me down, and grabbed Legolas' arm, ignoring his wince of pain.

'Get out of here, Legolas, you can barely fight,' I hissed at him. He flashed me a grin and disappeared. Limping slightly, I made my way to the fringes of the battle and brought out my bow, and began to shoot some of the spiders that were threatening the elves that were injured the worst. I could not use my leg very well, but my arms were free of hurt. Eventually, the stream of spiders began to slow and the elves began to stop, rest, and try to find friends and relatives.

[Onilalle]

As I shot down the last spider to attack me I stared around warily to look for any signs of others. Once I was satisfied the spiders had all been dealt with, I turned slowly around and caught sight of Raniean, limping over to an elf sitting on the ground nearby, who looked hurt. Thank Eru; he’d managed to kill the beast that attacked him… and strangely quickly. But I’d no time to dwell on things; I had to start getting the elves out of this part of the wood in case there was another colony of spiders nearby.
I clutched my side as it began to twinge horribly with pain again. I looked down and cursed; I’d well and truly torn open the immense gash in my side and the resulting flow of blood had managed to seep through both the bandages and the shirt. I had to keep my focus on the elves that were injured by the spiders and see to it that they were able at all to go on any further; I could not abandon a single elf to suffer. Although… I was finding it increasingly difficult to keep that focus… my head was swimming and I felt weak and flushed, due to the amount of blood I had lost already. I had to keep going- if I failed then… No, I thought; you’ve no time to think of such things.
“Is anyone seriously injured?” I asked Raniean as I stepped shakily over to where he was. “I need to know if they are in any state to walk a little while to the healers; they have already departed with the women and children.”

[Melathwen]

'Well, Your Majesty, you hardly look to be in that state yourself, and I think you are one of the worst. Those who are not fit can be carried by the few who went uninjured,' I told the King, concerned with the amount of blood he had lost. I also hoped Legolas had got clear all right, for I hadn't had time to look after him after he slay the beast, I was too busy slaying others. Well, we would find out later. Now, I had work to do.

[Barock]

I sat on my beast, surrounded by my orcs all baying for blood. I took a deep breath through my nose, I smelt the burning of the palace and the sweet smell of death, I opened my mouth I could taste the ash on the air I could even hear the crackling of the dieing flames in the distance as I ralied my troops.

Somthing was missing, somthing important, then it hit me.

"Bring me de elves" I growled
No one made any movement, I grabbed the nearest Orc. Holding him up to my face by his collar I roared.
"BRING ME DA ELVES!"
I dropped the whimpering creature and it ran towards the flames. I heard it stop and begin to speak, it then ran back.
"Cheiften, I,I." spluttered the shaking Orc.
"You what?" I bellowed, loosing my temper.
"We, d-did't capture any boss they got away." Stuttered the petrified Orc.
"Sauron gave me specific orders to capture the Elven king and prince, e wants to torture them, they know something e wants, now would you explain to me ow e will do dis widout the Elves!" I snarled.
"Boss, I'm sowy vey got away, but we burnt dere pictures! That upset em!" snivled the Orc
"When did I say burn dere pictures, WHEN DID I SAY IT! I want dem Elves!" I roared, the Orcs surrounding me backed off but I grabbed the sniveling creature before it could go anywere.
"You failed me , I do not accept failure you worm!" I spat.

I threw the Orc to the ground, it tied to run but I sprang from my Warg and grabbed its kneck.
"Sowy boss, I'm sowy boss." It splutered as once more I threw it to the floor.
"You will be, draw your sword coward!" I bellowed.
The Orc drew its rusty blade and threw itself at me, I simply moved and the Orc fell. I drew my blades Doom and Gloom, the Orc stumbled to its feet and stabbed its blade at me I caught it between my two and snapped it in half. The Orc began to run, I picked up a shard of his blade and threw it, the Orc fell at the blade sunk into the back of its head, I remounted and rode towards the Elves I could smell them, they were close.

[Onilalle]

Great start, Barock!

I closed my eyes pensively and looked down for a moment. In a strange way I felt Raniean was right, but I had no intention of giving up. Perhaps I would have to keep close to the elves I trusted the most, if the worst happened… I needed to carry on, though, and keep my own watch on those who had survived.
I had an ephemeral thought about the progress of the women, elflings and healing soldiers and prayed to Eru they were safe. How was I to know if there wasn’t another colony of spiders lurking around? I supposed, though, that Legolas was protecting them well despite his injured arm. He seemed to be going on, regardless of any hindrances. And I didn’t hear any ill noise from within the woods, as the group had not long been gone, so that was a reassuring thought.
I continued to feel pain – though it was subsiding slightly – and I felt cold. I knew I would not last long without being healed in some way or another, so I began to follow the now moving group of remaining soldiers out of the clearing.

[Barock]

I stopped in a clearing to sniff the air, They had been here! I signalled for my warriors to stop, the colum ground to a halt in the eerie half light of the clearing. I smelt blood, not Elven something else, there had been a battle not far from here, many died, many of what I was not sure. I dismounted my beast and walked to the centre on the clearing, I got on my knees and tasted the grass, I then smelt it, Elves had come this way, not long ago.

"Ururk Manthak, RAK!" I roared as I got my feet.
Obediantly five mounted Orcs came foreward.
"You weeds'll scout ahed, keep your eyes peeled, or i'll peel em for ya!" I snarled.

The five Orcs rode off into the forest, what was that smell. Alsost insect like, I took another deep breath, what was it? I remounted my Warg and lead my Orcs forewards, closer to the Elves, closer to revenge!

[Etaina]

Amidst the utter anarchy I must have lost count of the arrows which whistled so perilously close past my ears, the shrieks, the elven curses; the chorus of a hastily ordered battle. Gradually though it mellowed until I blinked, quite dazed about the willowy figures of elves, some with great gnashes across thier cheeks. I myself, was relatively unscathed save for the dull thud of resonating loneliness in my elven soul - but then, my mother had only recently been slain. How then, could I expect anything else? I drifted through the ranks of wounded or weary and came at last to the King, one of the few souls who had spared any ounce of warmth before this sorry mess had broken our lull of perfect ease. " My Lord King" I smiled earnestly, skipping to his side yet the breif flicker of pain rippling across his fair face did not go amiss the astue senses of a fellow elf. " You need healing...and fast" I noted softly, resting a palm to his forehead. I dug inside my robes, taking out a phial of clear transparent liquid and pressing it into his palms. " It is from our springs and will give you some strength - but it will only be temporary. It is all I can offer" I shrugged with a listless sigh, smokey grey eyes lifting to his face as I smiled, a brief glimpse of the once joyous elleth beneath. " At least we live My Lord"

[Onilalle]

I stared at the phial in my hand, and then at Lustelvive. I thought of nothing more than her kindness, her optimism… she had been through so much, yet she kept her fair, serene composure that I found so intriguing. Her compassionate ways made me feel considerably warmer inside despite the cold from the loss of blood from my open wound. I easily managed a smile.
“I thank you from my heart, Lustelvive.” I said, placing a hand gently over her shoulder. “Yes - at least we live, my lady. I hope you are well after this terrible encounter…”
Lustelvive smiled and nodded vaguely. She looked a little pale, but not too perturbed. I was glad of this.
I opened the top of the phial and drank its content – feeling a cool sensation flow down my throat. Almost instantly I felt the pain subside and the cold, weak feeling I previously suffered from was gradually wearing away. Looking down, I saw the gash in my side partially heal – not much, but enough to ensure it would not split and start bleeding me dry again. Relief washed over me as I felt my strength slowly return, and I gathered myself. The maiden at my side gave me a soft smile and I returned it with a beaming one. “Thank you again, Lustelvive, mellonin.”

[Barock]

I forced my Warg on, through the undergrowth fatige was starting to affect my warriors but the promise of Elf flesh spurred them on.

In the distance I heard movement, the running of Wapes, two Wapes, but I sent five!
The two Orcs burst through the undergrowth, slashs coving their bodies. One fell from its Wape, I heard its breath slow then stop all together, the Orcs mount turned and started to devour its master.
"Waht happened?" I shouted
The Orc brought his Warg to a halt by mine.
"Spi-ders b,boss, t,they ambushed us, we were c,close to th........ Elves we could ear them, they are m,movin on now...." stuttered the dieing Orc
"Ow far?" I asked.
"Two... hours ride duno how long on foot, Boss I...." The Orc faltered and slumped forewards an Orc on foot eagerly ripped the corpse from the sadle of its Wape and mounted.

That was the smell, spiders. I started forewards, my army followed, no spiders were going to sneak up on me!

[Etaina]

" Such a sentiment from the heart of a King is gladly recieved my Lord" I noted with quiet earnest as his smile brightened to a dazzling beam, his health returning with the respite the phiall had offered him. It had been a while since I could even comprehended any other's thoughts on my welfare - indeed why should I? Nothing was left for me then, only mere shadows dissolving within the folds of whisper. Yet seaching his eyes with my own I saw no distrust, no falseness - just a gentle warmth which in turn, seemed to mellow the coarse bluntness of my ache...how curious... " No thanks needed - I am your servant..as always" I assured with a breif bow of my head before lifting it to glance ahead of me. " Where are we headed?" I asked curiously, walking close beside the King. " I have rarely ventured out from Dol Guldur - or had. This is all so forgien to me" I sighed wistfully, stumbling slightly over a twisted root of earth. " Ah I am unlearned! For an elleth and our peoples standards...my father would curse youth for it's neglect" I mused with a soft, distant laugh. " Perhaps that was why I was better at archery and not a valuable nessesity to the Court" I bit my lower lip thoughtfully as the spirits of the elves ahead of us seemed to mellow slightly with the recovered vigour of thier King.

[Onilalle]

“I see far beyond your inexperience, my lady.” I replied with a smile as Lustelvive finished her sentence. “We are headed for the north-east of the Green wood, where we will be relatively safe. And on the contrary; you prove to be a great necessity to our courts. Inexperience proves to be no great obstacle to you. Youth, in my view, is a wondrous thing, and it is to be respected and treasured. I say make the most of your youth, Lustelvive – whilst you’re free to do so.”
My last words trailed off and I stared ahead of me again. I fell silent, contemplating that last sentence. Youth and freedom were among the small minority of things I did not possess… And I would have hated it for Lustelvive – or my son, for that matter – to let those things go to waste. And I would make sure they didn’t.
I walked on and on through the woods with the maiden and the group of warriors until we managed to find another large clearing. My heart leapt – they were all there; elf and elfling, healer and scribe – the immense crowd of my subjects. All safe, by the looks of it, and together. That was the main thing.
“Thank Eru,” I breathed, making my way over to Trelan, who was standing guardedly at the front of the group, and he gave a quick inclination of his head as I approached.
“They are all safe.” he said. “We detect no more colonies of the beasts nearby – Raniean has seen the road ahead of us and it looks very safe.”
I smiled. “A fair change. It’s about time these people had less to suffer.” I looked around, watching the clearing for any sign of my son… But I could not see him. “Trelan…” I muttered. “Have you seen Legolas?”

[Barock]

We reached yet another clearing, there was something different about this one, so silent nothing moved the smell, it was overpowering, acidic, we had reached the place of the battle, the dead spiders!

"We are close, I want all Riders up ere now." I shouted over the grunts of the Orcs

My Warg riders rode forewards numbering almost fourty, they surrounded me.
"Right boyz we are gonna suprise them Elves, We is gonna get infront of em and strike while da infantry heads dem up from behind! Dey wont know wats it em." I laughed.
The riders nodded in agreement. I went back to the infantry.
"You dere" I jabbed my finger at the biggest Orc I could see " Whats you name?"
"Rabharak boss" Grunted Rabharak
"Your in chatge till I gets back, your to bring da boyz into da back of da Elves and suprise em! Don't be late or I'll make sure you die in da battle, Lets GO riders!" I roared.

I spurred my beast into the forest, crossing the land so quickly, I could taste my revenge now smell it sweet smell and hear it calling to me, I would make the Elves pay!

[Melathwen]

~Trelan~

'Have you seen Legolas?' I looked up at my King, glad to see he seemed somewhat refreshed. The battle had been hard, few had escaped unharmed, and with the entire court running from the palace...

'No, my lord, I haven't. Raniean and I told him to take himself out of the way of the fighting before the battle began; I have not seen him since then.' Thranduil looked thoughtful for a moment, then nodded slightly and left, not observing the bow I offered him. I was worried about Legolas, but I could not leave my post.

~*~*~*~*~*~

~Legolas~

I killed the spider, grinned at Raniean, and left. I knew that if I stayed so close to the battle field, with my broken arm, there was a good chance I wouldn't be able to protect myself. There were simply too many spiders. So, I searched out the group of healers, women and children, urging them on through the trees to safety. We had to get off the ground. We had cleared the land of spiders, but had no way of knowing if any other enemies remained. Spiders were the only ones that used the trees, so if we got off the ground we would be far safer.

Helping along a woman with three elflings, I sighed. I could hear the sounds of the continuing battle. I couldn't help but wonder which lives would be taken, who would be injured. I did wish that battle wasn't necessary, but while there were orcs and spiders and other enemies in the world, it would be.

We reached a clearing and stopped, most too weary to go on by now. I stood and surveyed them for a moment. 'We shall stop here,' I said. I had everyone's attention immediately. 'It will be safer to get off the ground. Those that are able, I want you to build talans in the trees. Those that aren't, collect wood for them. Everyone else, try and help the sick and wounded.'

Elves moved off to obey my orders, some climbing into the trees to scout for places for the quick, rough talans that most elves know how to make in the forest. Others moved through the trees, searching for the branches that would be needed. I settled down on a rock to wait for the warriors and my father to come and find us.

[Onilalle]

I searched for Legolas through the crowd; Lustelvive close by along with the warriors. I was beginning to worry… where had Legolas gone? I prayed he had not strayed off too far, for he had a broken arm and needed the attention he was lacking for it. Thank heavens the battle was over for now… If he didn’t get something to heal his arm soon I didn’t know how much longer he’d be able to withstand any more pressure.
Then I saw him. I breathed a huge sigh of relief as I spotted my son sitting on a nearby rock, his azure eyes scanning every bit of action around the clearing, watchful… I practically ran over to him.
“Legolas,” I said breathlessly, giving him a large smile as a way of easing my tingling nerves; “I am so glad. Well done indeed, my son… That was a very worthy thing for you to do, directing this group to safety. The battle is over - The healers will be with you shortly to attend to your arm. I’m… I’m very proud of you.”

[Barock]

We would strike at night I decided, the Elves would be tired after their battle, minimum resistance maximum damage this I liked. I could smell the Elves now not far off, laughing and feeling so safe in the company of their friends, safety is the one thing that they were now lacking, the one thing I had allready taken!

[Melathwen]

'Thank you, ada,' I said quietly. He wouldn't be proud if he knew exactly what I'd done, but I could hardly have left Raniean in such a position; wounded as he was, I am sure that the spider would have at least wounded him again, even if it hadn't killed him. I just hoped my father didn't find out exactly how... active... I had been in the battle. I was fine, and he didn't really need to know.

'I have begun the elves building talans, so that we might get off the ground. I think it will be safer. We should rest here until we are a little more recovered from injuries, and then move on.' I looked up, wondering what my father would make of what I had said. I was not quite taking his place, but it was very close.

[Onilalle]

Legolas seemed slightly distant. I sensed a tiny yet visible hint of untruth in the way he spoke, but whatever it was, I did not worry myself about it. I was too glad of his safety to worry. The group was out of harm's way… My son was alive, and unhurt apart from his arm. That I had to see to… I did not want to have him travelling – or fighting, in fact - in pain.
“A wise plan, Legolas.” I said earnestly. “You’ve managed to keep the group together very well, but I think it is time you took a rest and had your arm healed once and for all - I dread to think how much of a nuisance it is to be doing all this with a broken limb.” I turned around and called one of the healers over, and left him to his work.
Turning around once again to Lustelvive, I let a hefty sigh escape my mouth. “An eventful time it has been. No doubt it will leave a deep mark on those who have survived… I only hope we can overcome the terror that has hit us with such force in such a fleeting space of time.”

[Barock]

We stopped in a clearing close to the Elves, we would wait, the infantry were loud and slow, the Elves would pre-occupy themselves with them while I butchered their women and children, then I would lead my men into the Elven rear, completely suprising the Elves.

I swung myself from my Warg, my Orcs followed suit, one of the Orcs opened its mouth to speak. In a flash I drew my sword and placed it into the Orcs mouth without it touching a side, I then slowly withdrew my sword (my point having been acheived) making sure to graze the edges this time, I then lay down and tried to organise my thoughts. I heard my Orcs do the same in silence, we would sleep the day through. I jabbed the nearest Orc with my blade, it jolted upright knowing what I meant, I had apointed a guard.
I fell into a half sleep, I was aware of my surroundings but only in a hazy faded way. My mind began to plan our exact moves, I would not fail!