To Love a Black Rose By: the_enraged_troll Rated PG-13 summary: One year after the war of the ring, Legolas finds himself on his journey back home, only to stumble upon a strange elf maiden in the woods of Hollin. Taking her with him back to Mirkwood,strange secrets begin to stirr up,and Legolas finds himself in love with a princess he never even kew existed. Yet, before his heart's desperate cries could be tamed, he finds himself once again in battle,this time for his realm. Leaving a desperate elf with nothing but a promise, he departs. What happens when a hero fails to return to his love? She now finds herself on her own dangerous quest, seeking for the love of her life. Yet, when the call of the sea falls to an elf's ears, will they abide its calls? Could a promise be kept, even through death? Disclaimer: I do NOT own any of Tolkien's characters. Tolkien's the master mind of Middle Earth, not me, sadly. Yet, I do own Meril , Falasiel, and Raphayelle. I also KNOW that Legolas' horse is not black, but hey, it's fanfiction, and I also screwed around w/ a few other facts. So not everything may be in tact here, (including my elvish) but bear w/ me here! :) Feel free to leave comments, if u feel like it, u can e-mail me at the_enraged_troll@yahoo.com To love a Black Rose chapters 1-3 Chapter 1 ~In the depths of Hollin~ Over the mountains, Anor (the sun) slowly swept, bathing all in her majestic glow. The forests awakened to a new dawn, glittering in their own gold and being. In the distance, the cry of an unknown bird echoed throughout the once silent land. The lush, verdant hills sloped gracefully, glistening with fresh pearls of morning dew. Once again, the world had awakened to a new day. Yet, its course remained to many unknown. The war of the Ring had been over for nearly a year now, and the Fellowship had split. Each member parted his own way. Aragorn returned to Arwen, claiming his throne in Gondor, Frodo and the rest of the hobbits decided to pay Bilbo a visit before returning to the Shire, Gimli, decided to stay with his father, before traveling with Mirkwood'" prince as he promised, and Gandalf seemed to have completely disappeared from the face of the earth. Gandalf had always been a mystery to many, even his closest of friends, dissappearing and reappearing as the coming day. All was well in Middle Earth for once, since the defeat of Sauron, yet, among the trees of Middle Earth, change spun its wheels, weaving together something strange. He felt it in his veins, and would not so quickly push it in the back of his mind. In the midst of the woods of Hollin, a tall figure suddenly rose from the flowery fields. The elf stretched out his long arms, yawning. His long blond hair lie disheveled about the elf's angelic face.Wiping the sleep from his eyes, he bent over, picking up his belongings from the ground. "Well, looks like another day for us on our journey has begun, Aron, my lad." Legolas Greenleaf, son of Thranduil, walked over to his raven steed. He carefully readjusted his cloak, then tightened the silver pin on his robe before gathering the rest of his belongings. His long blond hair glistened in the sun's rays, filtering through the trees, casting a golden crown above his brows. Grabbing fists full of his hair, Legolas pulled a portion back into a small ponytail. "I wouldn't want to forget these" He picked up his bow and quiver, placing them on his back. "We'd be hurting bad if we were to run into orcs." The elf winked at the black horse, giving one last look at their resting place from the night before. As usual, the woods of Hollin were silent, other than the birds. All life seemed to be absent. The elves that once lived in this forest have long left for their Haven. Soon Galadriel, the lady of the wood, would be departing too. The time of the elves had come to leave Middle-Earth. Yet something stirred within Legolas' heart that told him to stay. The call of the sea could wait, for it had not yet reached his keen ears. Though he knew that his time drew near, balanced on the tip of a knife.Legolas jumped onto Aron, and headed towards Rivendell. It would take him more than a few days to get there, at the rate he was moving. "Ai, my lad, let us be on our way!" Aron galloped off through the glimmering trees of Hollin, his black mane appearing almost blue as they rode off, Anor's rays always keeping watch of them above. As he rode off, many thoughts swam throughout his mind. The elves were leaving, and Thranduil wanted his eldest soon to take his throne. Mirkwood would then be his responsibility, a heavy load that Legolas did not want to carry on his shoulders yet. Along with the responsibility of taking care of a wife. Mirkwood's prince had no intentions of falling in love. It could wait. Mirkwood could wait. Life could wait. Still, a strange voice kept on calling from the depths of his soul. Drawing him closer and closer to Rivendell, giving him no choice but to follow. Legolas frowned.Years had passed since his last visit, ever since the war of the ring. It was time to meet up with some old friends. Then, he knew that it was time to go back to Mirkwood. The thought weighed down at his heart. He had little intentions of becoming the next king, yet his father had insisted on it. Maybe his small journey would buy him more time before his father decided to seek him out and bring him back to his kingdom. ************************** Silently, she struggled to free her wrists from the thick rope bound tightly around them. Her face was flushed with anger, her emerald eyes fury. The hem of her dress drug over the soft dirt, her feet making no sound as she walked. Behind, the heavy sound of metal clashing into the tender earths ground, shredding her about, pierced her keen ears. She held her head high, never looking back at the army of orcs trailing behind. There were at least 20 of them, she had counted. There would be no way for her to escape and outrun 20 of them. She sighed inwardly, closing her eyes. Anywhere.....To be anywhere but here.... Beneath her feet, the ground quaked with discomfort. It's grass remained bruised after the soiled feet of Orcs made their way about. She could feel the earth scream in her head. The trees seemed to weep, the flowers dying. Nature was dying. Middle Earth was dying. She felt it, and partially died with it. A blind, uncertain step ahead caused her to trip. Her wild, raven mane flew about her angelic face, her blue eyes torn awake. She stood up quickly, her bound wrists ached, as she tried to wriggle herself more space.Alongside, their leader, clad in stained armor, held a sharp dagger up to her throat. "Move it, elf. Our road's still long, do not tempt me to ram this through you!." He smiled, revealing rows of yellow, uneven sharp teeth. His eyes were tantalizing, slivers of black slit pupils. In his other, small, callused hand, he held her bow and quiver. Her eyes wandered over to it, wishing she held them both in her hands. Turning her head from his cold gaze, she moved on in silence. The orc's eyes still lingered on her, causing her to a sharp stop in her tracks. Ever since her capture, his eyes had trailed the length of her magnificent lean body, and it irritated her beyond the use of words. "What?! Must your rotten eyes always stare at me?!" The rest of the army had come to an abrupt halt, all of their eyes now on the elf and their leader. Sparks of hatred and disgust flickered in the elf's eyes, her blood tinted lips twisting into a frown. The orc leader felt her rage pulse through his veins, and it encouraged him to the core. The leader leaned closer to her, the stench of his foul breath invading her nostrils. She flinched, and before she could make sense of anything, fell onto the ground. A low moan escaped her lips, when she felt the harsh slap slash across her cheek. "My eyes fall upon whom I please! And I can stare you up and down as much as I want, you are MY prisoner!" Her eyes looked up at him, and found his dagger inches away from her throat. The young elf's face twisted in disgust. She spat at his feet, only to find his dagger grazing her skin. Her breath quickened, every muscle in her body froze. She could now make out the screeching laughter from the other orcs. Each one of their faces, closer to her now, their rows of sharp teeth so dangerously close. "And my prisoners," he continued, "Never talk back! So let me teach you a small lesson, to make sure your pretty little head doesn't forget" Slowly, he drug the daggers tip down the length of her neck, leaving a small incision. The sharp metal burned into her skin, and she screamed. Tears streamed down her face, her mouth wide open, struggling for air. "Damn you! Damn all of you!" Her voice cracked, a bitter coating of tears in the back of her throat. The orc with-drew the dagger from her neck, dropping it on the ground. He gestured for the others to come closer. They're hideous sneers would forever be engraved in her mind. TheyŐd find their immortality in her nightmares, bathing her in a cold sweat every night. If she would ever make it out alive from this mess she drug herself in. "You know" She now found his voice next to her ear. "I always wondered what elf flesh tasted like....Especially yours." He then laughed, a shattered siren to her ears. The rest of the army closed in on her, her vision hazed, then turned black. She felt their breath on her skin, their sharp teeth grazed at her pearly flesh. Behind her back, her bound wrists struggled to be freed. Razor fangs slid into a patch of her shoulder and she screamed. More teeth invaded her, she was being torn to shreds alive. Eru(God)...........Tua amin(help me).....I'm going to..........die.... Every bite sank deeper into her. Draining her of her immortality. They laughed, terrible shrill cries. Darkness devoured her as she began to feel her body dimnish into nothingness. From a distance, her keen ears picked up the sound of hooves. Then the sound of arrows whizzing past her. One by one, it seemed as if the fangs had been pulled out of her pearly flesh. One last pair of desperate razor fangs slid into her shaking hand, before they also seemed to have been torn out of her violently. She cried out once again, and then suddenly realized that the constant gnawing on her skin had diminished. They screamed. All of them screamed, as if in pain. No longer could she feel their presence close to her, yet their high pitched cries echoed throughout her head. ************* Feeling the cool breeze brush her raw, exposed flesh, she sucked in a painful breath. Her eyes slowly adjusted to her surroundings, and she found the entire army of orcs slain. Their leader lay straight ahead, an arrow buried deep into his skull, stranded by his side, she found her quiver and bow. Her legs slid painfully over the soft dirt, as she made her way towards him. Grasping onto one of her arrows, she drug its tip repeatedly over the rope until her hands were freed. Yallume! (at last) Tears sprang to her navy eyes, her long fingers caressing her swollen wrists. She gazed at the bite-marks, covering her shoulder and legs. They were not too deep, yet they burned with every brush of the wind. Letting out a quiet sigh, she picked up her weapons. The comfort of her bow protectively in her hand, and her quiver on her back filled her with a certain warmth. Yet, coldness quickly followed as light footsteps drew from behind. Slowly, she rose, a quiver already placed loosely in her bow. Turning around, she strung it with such quickness, any human eye could have been fooled. "Do not move!" Her raven hair fanned out about her, her blue eyes wide as she found the tip of an arrow pointed at herself as well. Her heart caved in within her chest, a pair of icy blue eyes staring directly at her. The elf standing before her suddenly took a step backwards, his gaze softening. Loosening his arrow, it fell to the ground followed by his quiver. She still had hers pointed at him, her hands were shaky, and for some reason, her fingers froze in place. His fair face blinded her with such beauty. Horrified, she watched in agonizing silence as he stepped closer and carefully brought the tip of her arrow down till it faced the ground and eventually fell. Her fingers unfroze from her bow and dropped it as well. "Uuma dela" (don' t worry) His voice was music to her ears. She found herself trembling within. Her quivering lips managed to force out words. "I never do." He stepped closer to her, taking her hand in his. His silky lips traced the small form of her hand, and carefully kissed on of the bite-marks on it. She flinched as he did. "Then why are you shaking?" "What does it matter?" She stopped. For Eru's sake! Her bones were even shaking. He looked up at her and smiled. "You don't have to answer. Especially the state you're in. Let me take you to a healer." Gently, she pulled her hand from his. A small tugged at the corners of her mouth, and she showed it. "Is that an offer to escort me out of these woods?" "It certainly is, my lady." He leant down and picked up both of their weapons. "May I ask for your name, my lady?." He asked, his back turned to her as he studied her bow. A crescent moon was carved on its side. Turning it in his hand, he caught traces of silver sparkling in the dark wood it was carved from. "Meril." "Rose. Lovely." He turned his head to the side, eying her. "I am Legolas." Meril walked towards him, the hint of a smirk on her angelic face. "Son of Thranduil. The prince of Mirkwood. Legolas Greenleaf. So we meet." Legolas now found her standing before him. "Yet, I wished it could have been under different circumstances." Her voice was low, merely above a whisper. "And why is that?" Legolas frowned, and handed back her weapons. "I'm afraid my weakness seeped through, and you found me in such a horrid state." Meril pointed at one of the bite-marks on her shoulder. Her full, blood red lips twisted, as if in pain. Somehow, they reminded Legolas of the beauty of crimson roses. "Everyone appears helpless at some point and time." "Oh, even the legendary prince Legolas of Mirkwood?" She smirked, walking past him gallantly. Her eyes never left his as she made his way around him slowly. Legolas watched her in silence, the gentle sway of her perfectly curved hips. The way her blood stained lips pulled back into a mesmerizing smile made him freeze in place. Her deep eyes captured him, holding him hostage. He already found himself infatuated. There was no way for him to help himself now. She had a certain aura about her, drawing him to her. "You'd be surprised at how scared the world's greatest hero may be, when he finds himself alone in the bitter cold. With nothing but the comfort of danger in the air." Legolas' eyes grew cold, his voice stern. Meril's eye's narrowed. "I guess you're right. I'm glad you came. And I thank you." "My lady, there's no need to thank me." "Meril." She corrected. "Fine." He led her towards Aron. "Meril. Let us make haste to Rivendell." "Rivendell?" Meril's mouth stood aghast, as if the breath had been pounded out of her lungs. Turning his head slightly, he watched her through the corner of his eye, as she recollected herself and slowly began to follow. Her full red lips twisted into a slight pout, her gaze somewhere among the foilage of leaves up ahead. He had to admit to himself, she was beautiful, almost too beautiful. Tearing his gaze from her, he continued ahead. Some strange magic came with her presence,and it made his blood freeze. He had to get rid of her soon, before she filled every corner of his thoughts and dreams. Now was not the time for him to let himself fall. Chapter 2 ~Rivendell's Princess~ Meril walked in silence, Legolas by her side, leading Aron. Since they're departure from Hollin, they haven't spoke a single word to each other. Dragging her feet over the soft dirt, she stumbled. She quickly looked up to see if Legolas had noticed. His stern eyes remained ahead, as if in search for something. Meril caught up with him, trying to match her pace with his. Her bow and quiver began to grow heavy on her slender shoulders. She let out a quiet sigh, hoping that Legolas' keen ears wouldn't pick it up. His head slowly turned, his blue eyes fell upon her weary form. "Meril, here, let me take these." He reached behind her back, releasing her weapons. In response, her back seemed to cry out in relief of being freed of its heavy burden. Tingling sensations spread throughout her slender arms and fingers. Stretching out her arms, Meril quickly tried to stiffle the oncoming yawn that quickly conquered. "Thank you." Her navy eyes kept their gaze on the ground, hoping Legolas didn't notice. "If you want, you can ride Aron. I'm sure he wouldn't mind." Legolas tried to offer his hand to her. "My prince," Meril tried to hide the smirk that soon became engraved on her tender face. "I can handle myself just as well." Legolas just nodded in response. Gracefully, she jumped onto Arons back. Her glossy raven mane spilled over her shoulder. A small giggle escaped her lips, her eyes lingered on Legolas, who stood watching, his arms folded in front of his chest. "Fine, let us be on our way then." "So be it." Meril stroked Arons wild mane. She cast her gaze once more in Legolas' direction. Lazily, her bow rested within his firm grip. There was a trace of sadness that lingered on his face. His eyes kept on searching for something. "My prince, I catch a hint of sadness in your _expression. If you do not mind, may I ask what bothers you?" Meril kept her gaze straight ahead, avoiding his. For a while, nothing but the sound of Aron's hooves clashing into the ground could be heard. Up ahead, Anor spilled down violently upon them. It's harsh rays splashing traces of gold in Legolas' hair. Innerly, Meril could have kicked herself for asking him such an abrupt question. What was it her business to ask the prince of Mirkwood such questions. She hadn't even known him for long. Awkwardness began to build itself within her skin. He remained silent. Not even acknowledging her presence. She seemed to have been thin air to him, nothing more. "My heart is bothered by the thought that I have a throne waiting for me back home." Legolas finally spoke. His voice clashed into her ears. Knitting her eyebrows together in confusion, she finally faced him. "And why is that such a heavy burden for a prince? A prince is born an heir to a throne. And as for you, Mirkwood is your throne. Think of how many elves would love to be in your position? Why be bothered by it?" "People have many great expectations of you as a ruler. I am not willing to have such burdens upon me." "A king is bond to face great expectations at a certain time in his life. It comes natural. Why fear it?" "I cannot carry anymore burdens within me than I do now." Meril laughed out loud, covering her mouth with her hand. "And may I ask my prince, exactly what burdens you carry within you now? I see no trace of such a horrific burden upon your figure." "My lady, the dangers of warfare are enough burdens to wear one down." "I guess I need to ask no more. I'm afraid your anger is beginning to boil to the surface already." Legolas felt his face grow hot. He ground his teeth, forcing himself to swallow down the words he was about to spit out at her. What would she know of anything he had been through? A she-elf knew nothing of war. She'd probably even run at the mere sight of one bleeding. Then again, she possessed weapons herself. He had seen how experienced she was at stringing her bow. Self protection. That is all it is for. She only knows how to string it. She probably can't even shoot for the life of it. "We should arrive in Rivendell soon." "Great." Meril didn't look back at him. She fought every sense within her that wanted her to turn around and call him a spoiled prince. Then again, it would have sounded childish and caused him to laugh at her small vocabulary of harsh words. Anger ran through her veins like poisoned ice. Soon she would be rid of him, then he would be nothing more than a mere memory. She'd remember his face. It would make great target practice at her archery lessons. That thought brought a small smile to her face. **************** "Ada!" Meril leaped off Aron's back, dashing towards Elrond. Legolas watched with wide eyes as Meril made her way up the marble s tairs, where Elrond stood, his face wild. Throwing her arms around Elrond in a chocking hug, Legolas heard her cry. His breath caught in his throat, as he watched Elrond embrace Meril in a warm hug. Tears glistened in the Lord's eyes, and his lips moved in silent whispers against Meril's ear. "My angel.......my dearest angel has returned to me....." Elrond sobbed into Meril's soft hair. "Ada, it is alright. I remain unharmed." Elrond looked at her, spotting the bite-marks on her shoulder. "Unharmed? Meril, what happened? Where's Falasiel? Was she not with you?" Meril flinched inwardly at the sound of that name. Unshed tears glazed her vision. "Not right now, ada, not now. Later would be better to tell you. By the way," Meril stepped aside, quickly changing the subject, allowing Legolas to appear in Elrond's view. "I thank my life to Legolas. Ada, he saved me from orcs." Elrond stepped down the stairs carefully, his arms stretched out to receive Legolas in an embrace. "Legolas Greenleaf....." Elrond paused, absent of words for a mere moment. There was something radiant about him, something of brief magic, that subsided after taking the young prince in his arms. "Words cannot hold enough justice to how thankful I am for my daughter's return....And in the company of one of the bravest of elves ever to walk upon Middle Earth...Legolas.. How good it is to see thee." Parting from the warm embrace, Elrond studied Legolas with a smile. "You look more like your father every time I lay eyes upon you. Come, let as all hear your story of the war of the ring. Tell me of your adventures you endured while you were travelling this way. What about Gimli. I heard a great deal of you and him becoming friends." "You have heard right then, my lord," Legolas smiled. "We have indeed." "Well, let's not just stand around here all day and waste our time. You will have to tell me all about it. A feast needs to be held, for the return of my beautiful daughter, and for her savior, the prince of Mirkwood!" Legolas let out a laugh, as Elrond led him down the halls of his realm, his arm slung around him. Meril walked next to Elrond,her hand in his, she gazed over at legolas, who looked at her with questionable eyes. She would have a lot of explaining to do. When time was right. ************* Legolas looked at his weary reflection in the mirror. He hadn't had much sleep in months. He always had to keep alert of trolls or orcs. Now he finally could let his bodie rest in peaceful slumber, without having to live with a constant fear gnawing at him. He slipped on the new green tunic Elrond had one of his servants bring him. Tonight a feast was held, for his and Meril's return. A dance was to take place also. He never knew Elrond had another daughter, besides Arwen. Yet, he should have been able to tell. She had the same raven mane as Arwen. Her eyes carried the same tint of the darkest night, and the wildest ocean. Foolish of him to let that all slip away. Still, what would bring her out to the woods of Hollin? Elrond never spoke of her, maybe there was a reason to it. A faint knock on his door tore a hole through his thoughts. It let out a soft creek as Meril's head poked through. She smiled, her eyes crinkling as she did. "Lle maa quel." (you look good) She stepped in, revealing the pearly-white dress she wore. It's sleeves draped down, barely brushing the polished marble floor. "Father wanted me to check up on you. Just to see if you are ready." Legolas stepped forward, grasping her by her slim wrist. "Lay everything aside, princess. There is no need to be formal with me." Meril looked up at him with cold eyes. Her lip twitched, in silence. "Fine then, Legolas." She tried to turn ,ready to leave. Legolas refused to let her go.His grip grew firmer, he forced her closer to him with a gentle jerk on her wrist. "You did not tell me. Lord Elrond is your father?!" Meril's gaze quickly fell. " What is it any of your business if he is my father or not? You, your highness, have no reason to meddle with my affairs." Her statement angered him. It left his curiousity still hungered, why did she have to make this so damn complicated? With his free hand, he grasped her chin,forcing her to look at his face. Her eyes burned madly into his, as if her gaze could cast him into a fury of hell's hottest flames. "What brought you to Hollin in the first place? You know that its no place for one like you." Angered by his comment, Meril forced herself free of his grasp. "Do not presume to tell me what is my place or not." She spun on her heels, heading for the door, but Legolas was faster than her. He blocked the door, pushing her against it. She felt his breath brush her face. Lightly, as if almost surreal, it fanned across her face. She closed her eyes, her heavy breathing more than evident to him. For a moment she could swear she felt him smile. He pressed up closer against her, in an almost threatening manner to her. He was beginning to draw dangerously close. Meril felt her heart batter wildly within her ribcage, threatening to shatter bone at any moment. Heat from his body radiated into hers, feeling his presence in her veins. She opened her eyes, and indeed found a sly smirk of a short lived triumph on his features. His eyes, stone cold. Mercilessly his eyes tried to dig out what secrets she kept from him. "I must go and get myself ready before dinner, excuse me your highness." Meril almost felt her cover slip away, and she had to get away from this elf,before things got more complicated than they already were. Meril wriggled out of the small space he allowed her, curtsied and slipped through the door. Cursing under his breath, Legolas slammed a tightly balled fist onto the wooden door. He stepped back, massaging his eyebrows gently. "This girl's going to be the death of me.." ****************** Excited voices echoed off the marble walls. Laughter filled the air, along with music. A sweet melody buried itself in Legolas' ear as he casually stepped into the ballroom. Many elves were gathered, crowding the large room. Smiling, Legolas made his way through, getting stopped every now and then. It was no surprise to him. Nearly every elf in Middle Earth knew of him. Struggling his way through the bodies crowding about him, he found Elrond seated at the dinner table. Elrond motioned for Legolas to sit next to him. Meril was seated in between both of them. Her gaze fell upon him once, but then she quickly avoided his. "Quel undome" (Good evening) 'It is great to have you here, son." Elrond shouted over the loud laughter and music. His hand enclosed over Meril's. "Long have I waited to see the return of my lost daughter. In my heart I feared the worst. Yet, you, son of Thranduil, saved her and brought her back to me. I cannot thank you enough." 'My lord, I'm glad she has returned safely to you." Legolas looked over at Meril, who was staring down at her still full plate. Her crimson lips formed into a mild frown, her lids narrowed, hiding her eyes beneath her thick charcoal lashes. Her hands nervously fidgeted with the satin table cloth, letting it slide through her slim fingers. Her raven mane was pulled up into a messy bun, letting long glossy strands drip down onto her bare shoulder. A small, tear-drop shaped pearl rested between her collarbones, matching her dress perfectly. "Excuse me my lord." Legolas stood up, making a slight bow. Elrond nodded in response, smiling as he watch the prince approach his daughter. Meril's eyes lit up in surprise, her lips partially opened, forming a "yes" as Legolas asked her to dance. A small smile lie embedded on her face as Legolas led her out onto the dance floor. He turned, facing her, taking one of her hands in his, and let the other rest on the curve of her hip. Meril's eyes studied the other couples on the dance floor. For some reason, she found all their eyes on her and Legolas. A light blush bloomed on her porcelain cheeks. Of course they'd all be staring at her. It had been months since she'd been back to Rivendell, and most of them had never even seen her before. She was a stranger to most of them. Her eyes narrowed, memories came pouring back. ~~"Meril, I do not think that this was such a good idea...Maybe we should turn around." Falasiel's eyes held pure fright. She nervously stepped over a fallen log, trying to catch up with Meril. The hem of her navy dress drug silently over the soft dirt. "Look, I promised to meet him, this is the only way..And my father cannot know. I could not bare to see the anger and disappointment on his face, after he found out." Falasiel nodded in silence. "So be it then. But it is your fate, not mine." "Do net let yourself be troubled with my choices. This was my decision." Meril dashed off, driving herself deeper into the woods of Hollin, Falasiel close to her heels.~~ "You never told me why." Legolas' soft voice broke through her thoughts. It was close to her ear, his breath faintly brushing her skin, causing her hair to stand up on the back of her neck. His long fingers curled around the thin fabric of her dress, grasping it firmly. Against her will, Meril was drawn closer to him. She once again felt threatened by his presence, but played it off. "What is it you long to know?" Merils voice was toneless. "I want to know why." Legolas almost whispered against her ear. A wave of shivers ran down her spine. A soft chuckle emerged from her. "Why?" His grip hardened, threatening to bruise her hip. "Why where you in Hollin?" Meril forced her gaze on him. His ice blue eyes dug mercilessly into hers. In the background, the music slowly died. Legolas forced them both to an abrupt stop, amidst the large crowd on the dance floor, as a new song aroused. He held her in place, refusing to let her go. He needed an answer. It burned within his lungs to know. "My prince, do not let my troubles bother you. I have already told you once not to meddle with my affairs." Meril looked over at Elrond, who watched them intently. Legolas had no choice but to let her go this time. Chapter 3 ~Crimson Secrets~ Stepping out into the cool night breeze,Meril took in a deep breath. A light blush painted itself across her cheeks, as she sat down on one of the stairs, descending down into the garden. Up ahead, the pale moon's glow splintered through the high canopy of dark branches scattered above. She could not bring herself to sleep. Something had been bothering her all night, ever since her dance with Legolas. A sudden chill crept upon her, splattering goosebumps across her tender flesh. An involuntary jolt shot through her fingers. Her lips sucked and pushed out shallow breaths, barely granting her the capability of breathing. Why did this always happen? Ever since she fled from Rivendell, it seemed as if her soul had been torn from her being. Numb fingers ran over the silky fabric of her dress, barely able to make out what exactly she was touching. ~~"Meril......I really do not think we should be here....Elrond...I do not think he'd agree with all this..." "Of course he would not agree, if he knew, Falasiel, and you promised. Do not dare stab a knife of betrayal in my back and twist it with hatred. It will leave me to perish in immortal agony if my heart cannot be merged with his." "Fine....I will remain your faithful companion...." "Then, do not let it hinder you." "I am only afraid that you are letting you're feelings devour your immortality....Meril.....You will not live forever, if you make your choice upon your meeting with him tonight." "I have already made my decision. Don't you think I deserve a choice as well as Arwen? She threw her soul away to a mortal. Why not I to make such a decision also?" "Because, you are Elrond's only immortal daughter.....Arwen gave her's away already, why not remain undying? There are many elves..." "I do not care for any of those many elves....I have heard that speech plenty from my father, do not presume to lecture me now....." "Fine , then go ahead and make such a foolish decision, but do me one favore, Meril, think of your mother. Think of how quickly life had ended for her when she made rash judgments about a mortal love....Is that how you want it to end for you?" ****************************************************************************** "Meril...forgive me,...but in my heart, there is no desire to place you in. I feel not what you want me to feel........" "But....you said that we could be together if I bound myself to you...You promised me a future with you!" ****************************************************************************** "Yrch!...Meril! Tima tenta!.....Sii"!! (Orcs...Meril! Run for it!....Now!) "Falasiel! No! Not without you!" "Don't be stupid, princess, make a dash for it! It is too dangerous for you!" "I have my bow, Falasiel! I can shoot!" "Then run and shoot the ones that fall in your path! Now go! I will not let them have you!" ***************************************************************************** Burying her face into her palms, Meril sobbed. Pearls of tears slipped between her fingers, staining her dress. "Falasiel...........Forgive me for my foolishness........" "You always had a tendency to act quite foolish, my dearest sister." Meril lifted her head, quickly wiping away the tears, using the back of her hand. A soft sniffle emerged from her. "Arwen?" "You carry too many sorrows....Since when has it been, your heart soared, for it loved.....a mortal. I understand, do not ever think one second that I donŐt. I feel what you feel. Just as mother." "And mother died, Arwen, " Meril's voice broke. Hiding her tears, she buried her face into the dark comfort of her palms. Arwen slipped an arm around Meril, pulling her into a heart-felt embrace. Meril looked up at her, her vision blurred. "What does it feel like?" "What?" "Knowing that you're going to die." Biting the bottom of her lip, Arwen cast her gaze down. There was an unspoken sadness that lingered within her eyes. "I fear it, yet, I also welcome it. It is my destiny." "Then, what is mine?" Meril's voice rose merely above a whisper. "Nae saian luume".......(it has been too long)...You're beauty has bloomed to its fullest, as will your destiny. You will find what you are looking for. But you need to give it time." Gently, Arwen brushed aside a strand of raven hair, out of MerilŐs eye. A small tear slid its way down her cheek. Arwen clasped her warm hands over MerilŐs slowly raising, and pulling Meril along as she did. "You have not told me of all your fears...I am afraid I was never there to listen to your problems, as good as I should have. And I blame myself for that." "I never tried to tell you, Arwen, there is no blame to place." Deep within, Meril's heart cried out in agony. Then whose fault would it be? You loved him! She loved a mortal and got away with it. It was her fault that you snuck out in the first place. Her fault was it! Falasiel was lost to darkness because of her!! An involuntary jolt surged through Meril. She jerked herself free of Arwen's hands, her eyes wide, empty. She felt her heart pound in her throat, throbbing in her ears. She was falling again into that dark abyss. It reached out for her with its icy claws, pulling her down until she sensed no more. The world was spinning around her. Time was revolving, the years passing by quickly before her, while all she could do was stand still and watch. Flowers bloomed, then wilted, many suns and moons rose and sank, leaves turned to golden hues, then lush green....The race of the elves diminished, until only she was left stranded on a silent battlefield. Thousands of dead bodies lay sprawled on the once lush hills of Middle Earth. They were elves...Elves... "MERIL!" The sound of her name caused her eyes to search frantically through the heavy grey mist that settled. In the far distance, a terrible cry echoed throughout the darkness. "Meril!" Warm hands were placed upon her shoulders, shacking her impatiently. Feeling her body sway back and forth, MerilŐs eyes sank shut. Her body felt drained of its energy. She slumped forward, growing limp in Arwen's arms. ********* Casually, Legolas leaned up against a huge oak tree in Elrond's garden, his arms folded loosely in front of his chest. His usual attire of green's and grays was replaced by a simple silver tunic. His golden locks hung freely, framing his tender features. Inhaling a deep breath of fresh air, he leaned back his head, letting his eyes close. Words failed at that moment, how wonderful it felt to be back among elves. Often, on the battlefield, he felt somewhat lonely for some of his own kin. Gimli was great company, yet, he was no elf. He couldn't magically sprout himself a pair of pointed ears, even if he tried. Legolas chuckled at that thought. He missed his dear companion. Lowering himself onto the soft bed of grass and flowers, he rested his head on his hands, which were folded behind his head. Up ahead, he watched the clouds pass by. Frodo, Aragorn and the rest of the fellowship crossed his mind. Arwen was in Rivendell, would that also promise Aragrorns presence? Why was Arwen back in Rivendell, wasn't she supposed to be in Gondor? Legolas tried to set these thoughts aside, studying the shapes the clouds took to themselves. Often, while he was still in Mirkwood, he snuck out of his fathers realm, and explored deeper depths of Mirkwood's forest. His father never let him go off boundaries, causing more curiosity to well up within the young prince. There, in the furthest, deepest part of Mirkwood, he found the most beautiful tree in all of Middle Earth. It's bark glimmered gold, it's leaves bearing the lushest green he'd ever laid eyes upon. To him, it seemed as if the golden branches were reaching out to the realms of the heavens above. His heart desired to explore it with all his curiosity Often he would climb to its highest branch, and watch the clouds pass by over the evening sky. Legolas felt his heart open up to old memories. How he often longed to still be that foolish young boy he was. Now he was a grown prince, with a promised throne and crown waiting for him. How could he ever take up that much responsibility, when most of his desires consisted of drifting off into his own little world? His blue eyes lingered dreamily at the blue velvet strung up endlessly above. The soft song of the wind sang sweetly to him, as it brushed past. lulling him to sleep. He wanted to merge one with the sky, become a part of something wild and free. Melt into the earth, completely vanish from eyes' sight. Not a victim shackled in chains, forced to take upon a crown unwanted. *********** Meril awoke in her bed, a sheet of sweat glazing her skin. Shivering, she pulled the red silk covers up to her quivering chin. Beads of perspiration dripped from her forehead, staining her cover. She tried to recall what had happened earlier, only to find her thoughts and memories blank. Only Arwen's presence earlier struck her mind. She remembered Arwen being with her. Her presence in Rivendell startled her. Why was she in Rivendell instead of Gondor? Sitting up, her eyes wandered across her room. Everything was just in place, exactly the way she left it before her departure. One of her window's was left open, allowing a cool draft of fresh air to enter. Her mind suddenly drifted off to Legolas. Heir to the throne of Mirkwood, she had to admit, he was extremely handsome. Yet hard-headed and stubborn too. Never had she met him before, until now, her father insisted on keeping her out of the eyes of strangers. Nearly all her life, she had been held in the background, never talked about. As if she were some sort of evil bearer, an enchantress of death. It infuriated her, the way everyone treated her. As if she were some delicate flower, ready to wilt at almost anyones mere touch. Meril let out a low sigh, her eyes closing. Absently , she ran her fingers through her disheveled hair. A wavy portion of it fell like a curtain over her shoulder. Curse this life of perfection!! Damn it all....... Gingerly, she caressed her tired features . Her fingers tenderly kneading her flawless flesh. To her it felt as if some hungry demon sought out for her, draining her of her life. The dangers she endured in Hollin, set hideous image into her mind. Staining her dreams with its crimson and black curtains. Fresh tears welled up within Meril's eyes. A bitter taste built itself up within the back of her throat that she could not swallow down, her chest heaving. She felt hot and cold at the same time, another layer of sweat covering her. ********************* ~~Laughing merrily, Meril leaped into the clearing of the forest. Anor's rays glittered high above, bathing the clearing in a puddle of gold. Millions of flowers decorated the lush green grass. Falasiel stayed close behind, stopping in her tracks once she saw the stranger leaning up against one of the many trees surrounding them. In her heart, she felt an uneasiness stir. Yet, she remained silent, watching Meril approach the dark shadow. "Raphayelle!" He stepped into the light, his midnight black hair rested carelessly upon his broad shoulders. "Meril. Our meeting finally came to be." "And so has our future! Raphayelle! Now you and I can be together, till death parts us!" Falasiel sensed the happiness radiating violently off Meril, she could almost taste it. And it's taste stained her senses with bitterness. Something was not right. Raphayelle held a dark aura about him, his eyes were hazed with darkness. The elf thought of making a rash act, suddenly stopped by Raphayelle's sudden words. His voice sounded as if it belonged to another being of some sort. "No, I am afraid I cannot grant you that my love." "What?" The pain in Meril's voice was so evident, Falasiel could taste it, replacing the bitterness. "Meril...forgive me,...but in my heart, there is no desire to place you in. I feel not what you want me to feel........" "But....you said that we could be together if I bound myself to you...You promised me a future with you!" A sudden laughter erupted from him, giving both elves goosebumps. "Of course you bound yourself to me, you're such a foolish maiden, princess. You have no idea what you brought yourself into." Falasiel grasped Meril by the arm, slowly driving her backwards with her. Raphayelle's lips peeled back, exposing a hideous snarl. "You see princess," he went on, "You bound yourself to me, and as long as there's love in your heart for me, I have your immortality. I claimed it mine the day your heart fell weak for me....Now, I have your strength, to use as I please." He brought his fingers up to his lips, sending out a shrill whistle. "Princess, we should leave, I feel a darkness heading our way." Falasiel whispered into Meril's ear. Meril nodded. Her feet froze in place, as thousand's of shrill cries were heard as a swarm of orcs burst into the clearing. "TIMA!!!!!" (run) Falasiel recklessly janked Maril after her, running through the forest in a mad dash. Thousands of heavy feet clashing into the hard dirt could be heard approaching them at a great pace. The orcs cried out to them, urging them to stope and fall within their trap. Falasiel never loosened her hold on her princess, as they ran for their lives.......~~ ************ "Your highness." A cool hand placed itself against Meril's burning forehead. Meril suddenly jerked, her eyes torn wide at the young elf maiden standing next to her bed. Clumsily, she stumbled back a few uncertain steps, her lips parted, not sure what to say. "Forgive me for intruding, princess." The elf gave a light bow. "His majesty, Elrond asked me to come and check up upon your state. It seems you are running a fever, princess. Highly unlikely for an elf, strange I find it. It is not in our nature to fall sick, yet, all your symptoms point to it." "What...happened?" Meril cast a glance of confusion at the maid. " I cannot remember a single thing, since I have been placed in bed. I ....I awoke earlier, I must have drifted off again...And....where's Arwen? She spoke to me! Where is she?" "Your highness, you must have hit your head and passed out. I would like you to rest up some more before getting out of bed. As for Arwen, she left with Estel before sunrise, she wanted to make sure you received this ." Gently the maid placed a crimson rose next to Meril. It's petals had barely began to bloom. "Oh!" the maid suddenly exclaimed, causing Meril to look up at her. "This came along with it." She layed a small card alongside the rose. Meril remained speechless. The maiden gave a look of concern. "Your father is hosting a feast and dance tonight, though, he in a way assumed that thy present will be absent tonight. You are not well, princess. I beg you to rest tonight and I shall return in the morning to check on your health again." She curtsied, and disappeared through the door. Once the maid had left, Meril reached for the small card. "As this rose will, your destiny will bloom also. May you find what you are looking for. Arwen~"