Fan Fiction ❯ The Sorrows of Tomorrow ❯ Truths and Arrivals ( Chapter 15 )

Title: The Sorrows of Tomorrow

Summary: Trouble brews deep in the heart of Mirkwood and Rhun the darkness thickens. Friends will be pitted against each other and only hope can save them.

Chapter 15: Truths and Arrivals

The boy tossed and turned on the pallet. Images of Thranduil kept running through his mind and with a sigh he sat up. Watching the king get beaten was haunting him now and he couldn't sleep. A part of him had wanted to help the king so badly but another part had been frozen in place. So many things had been warring inside of him that he just didn't know what to do. In the end he had done nothing and thankfully the beatings had stopped. But he knew that it was only temporary and would continue soon if Serutia had her way. What puzzled him the most out of the whole situation was the way that Thranduil had looked at him. He knew for a fact that the elf king recognized him and he wondered how. He had overheard some of the conversation between Thranduil and Serutia. It was quiet odd how he had been resurrected since mortals were rarely given this option. And there were slight changes to him and he didn't look the same as before. Having white hair when it use to be dark brown was strange enough but the pale skin was just plain odd. He wondered if his family saw him now would they even recognize him or see a stranger. A soft moan caught his attention and standing up, he walked towards the bed. The elf was asleep and was muttering faintly in elvish. Legolas's words stroke a cord inside of him and he closed his eyes.

"Estel……please…….remember me……"

A sad smiled appeared on his face and he sighed softly. Leaning closer, Selamant gently laid a hand on Legolas's brow and brushed back some of the golden strands.

"I am here my friend and I do remember." He whispered quietly and watched as the elf sighed. Perhaps it wasn't wise to even speak those words but he couldn't stand there and let his friend suffer. And he highly doubted that Legolas would remember his words since he was in reverie. Walking over to the window, he pushed it open and leaned against the wall. A cool breeze blew into the room and he shivered slightly. The full moon glowed brilliantly in the night sky and cast shadows across the forest. Something white caught his attention and he glanced across the camp. It fluttered among the camp's edges and near the trees.

"Come to me Estel."

The voice was oddly familiar and yet not at the same time. It had an echoing quality to it and he just knew it came from that being. He did not question how the creature knew his elvish name or why. Somehow he just knew inside his very soul that this creature had something important to tell him and he had to go.

"Estel."

Glancing at his companion for one moment he turned and left the room. He never noticed that the blue eyes had regained awareness or the hope that glimmered in them.

The moon's beams light up the barely used paths and he followed it. When he had left the mansion a few guards had given him puzzled looks, but left him alone. Luckily, the guards were use to his nocturnal habits of wandering at all hours and would not question him this night. It would have been weird to explain the reason why he was leaving and he wouldn't of anyways. The trees seemed to part before him and he stepped into a clearing. Broken pillars littered the ground and made strange shadows from the light. Night bugs flew through the air and made everything seem peaceful. Selamant walked into the clearing and gazed around. Something had called him from his troubled thoughts and had drawn him here. He hadn't been here before and wondered what this place was. It felt vaguely familiar and his body trembled in remembered pain. An intense glow to his left caught his attention and he was surprised. A young elf leaned against a tree and watched him. He remembered this elf and was surprised to see him.

"Lossëdil?"

The elf stood and began to walk towards him. His brown eyes glowed in the moonlight and his face was sad.

"Yes it is I Estel."

The boy shook his head and was confused. "Why are you like this Lossëdil? Did you die?"

Lossëdil let out a hollow laugh. "Yes. I died here Estel and because of the wrongs I did, I now haunt the forest of Rhun."

Selamant could only gape at the other in shock. "But what happened? The last thing I remember was that you had fled from us and was still alive."

The elf ghost smiled bitterly at the mortal and grimaced. "I did escape but was later captured by Serutia and that wizard of hers. They later used me in a sacrificial spell and I died."

"Sacrificial spell? But why?" Selamant was truly bewildered why this was done and especially by Serutia.

The elf ghost laughed harshly and glanced at the mortal. "In order to revive you they used ancient magic and needed an immortal's life. Unfortunately I ran into them and they used me."

Selamant didn't want to believe the elf's words but he feared it was true. A memory flittered through his mind and he cringed. Lord Mandos did say he would be summoned but never went into detail. And now he knew how he had been restored to his old body and that Lossëdil had died because of him. Betrayal swept through his mind and he was saddened. How could Serutia the one who had cared for him done this? A terrible sorrow swept through him and he started to cry.

"Do not grieve for me Estel. Only in death was I able to realize all the mistakes and wrongs I had done in life." Lossëdil spoke quietly. He was oddly touched that the boy would weep for him but then again death could change you.

"How can you say that?" Selamant raised haunted silver eyes to the ghost. "Because of me you died and I bet you were in terrible pain. The forest here reeks of it and the foul magic used."

Lossëdil blinked in surprise and wonder at the mortal. How could the boy possibly know this when only elves usually could feel this? Perhaps the Valarian had gifted Estel new abilities when he had been summoned back to earth. It was an interesting concept and he was intrigued. What was even more interesting was the boy held no ill towards him and was truly saddened by his death. If only his bitterness towards humans hadn't clouded his and Ambardil judgment. Then perhaps they would still be alive and friends with this curious mortal.

"It was not your fault Estel and do not blame yourself." Lossëdil raised a hand to stop the mortal from speaking. "You did not cast the spell that killed me and I do not blame you for this at all."

The mortal shook his head and smiled sadly. "Very well Lossëdil I will take your words to heart, but I will still feel guilty."

Lossëdil smirked. "I know Estel but that will soon fade in time. Now I summoned you here for a reason my friend."

"A reason?"

"Yes you know of the two paths that are laid before you and that you must choose soon?"

"Yes I know about this." Selamant replied. He was very curious as to what the elf was getting at and why.

Lossëdil gazed at the mortal seriously and pointed at him. "I warn you be wary which one you choose because not just your life hangs in the balance but so do others as well. To choose wrongly will bring death and heartache to all."

Selamant pondered theses words and nodded slowly. He understood what Lossëdil meant since it was similar to what Mandos had told him as well. But the part about death and heartache saddened him. It appeared his choice just got a whole lot more complicated and he sighed. The one thing that bothered him the most was everyone was offering advice but it sure wasn't helpful. It just caused him more heartache, more troubling thoughts, and it was so irritating. For once he wished everyone would just stop offering advice and let him think it through on his own. Life just wasn't fair and probably never would be.

"I will take your words and consul to heart Lossëdil." Selamant spoke thoughtfully.

"Good now you should return before you are missed."

"But what about you?"

The elf smiled and he seemed to glow more brilliantly. "Do not worry Estel I will be fine. Now go young one."

Somehow Selamant knew that the elf would say that. "Very well goodbye Lossëdil and thank you."

Lossëdil watched as the boy turned and left the clearing. He was glad that he had met the boy once more and settled things between them. Perhaps now he would be able to rest in peace and not remorse over the past. He truly hoped that Estel would choose the path towards home and not let false loyalty to Serutia sway him. One thing was certain he had done all that he could and now could finally rest in peace.

~

The horses raced across the open plains and Rhun loomed on the horizon. Arien was slowly rising and yet dark clouds obscured the sky. It was a gloomy day and would probably rain. Many thoughts ran through the elves and one Maiar's mind that they were finally almost there. The trip so far had been uneventful and nothing dangerous had happened so far. Perhaps it would all change once they entered Rhun forest and they would be ready for it

Elrond smiled in determination and hope. Soon he would be reunited with his youngest and be able to hold him again. The only thing that stood in the way was the elf woman Serutia and her allies. It wasn't going to be easy to get his son back or help him make the right choice. Still no matter what happened he would not let what he saw in the mirror happen, he refused to let his son or any of his friends die. The closer they got to Rhun the more apprehensive and concerned he felt. It was as if the forest had a cloud of malice and sadness hanging over it. Something was truly wrong with that forest and he felt Vilya twitch uneasily in the back of his mind. The ring was usually a calm presence in his subconscious and only reacted negatively when something evil was about.

"I see that you sense it too my friend." Mithrandir said quietly.

Elrond glanced at his companion. "Yes I do and I do not like it."

"Could it be magic that caused this?" Elladan asked curiously from his father's left.

"Yes quiet right young one. Some form of magic was used and it might heed us in our task." Mithrandir shook his head and sighed.

Elrohir rode up next to the Istar and looked at him earnestly. "We will be able to get passed it to help Estel and the others though?"

Mithrandir grinned and nodded sagely. "I believe so young one, but first we need to get there."

Horses galloping towards them caught all there attentions and they slowed there's to a halt. Four elves approached them and Elrond eyes widened in surprise. It was the Lorien brothers and an elf from Mirkwood. It had only been a few hours since Haldir and his brothers had gone ahead to scout the area. They had wanted to make sure nothing would be lurking nearby or to try and ambush them.

Haldir slowed his horse before Elrond and smiled grimly. "My lord we have brought Captain Telindel of Mirkwood to you and he has grim tidings."

Telindel half bowed to Elrond and nodded to the others. He had been surprised to see the Lorien elves and was glad that Elrond and Mithrandir was with them. They truly needed all the help they could get if they were to help there king and prince.

"Greeting my lord I wish I didn't have such dire news to report to you but we need your help. King Thranduil has entered Rhun and I fear that his life is in mortal danger."

"I hope we have not arrived too late to stop this." Elrond shook his head. "How long ago did your king enter the forest of Rhun?"

"The day before and we worry for him. He did not seem optimistic about his or our prince's chances of escaping."

"There is more to report then just this my lord." Rumil replied quietly. He glanced at his brothers and then the others in concern. "There is a barrier around the entire forest and known can enter it."

"Then how did Thranduil get through it?" Elladan questioned curiously.

Telindel let out an angry snarl. "A human used some form of spell to open a hole for our king to step though. We have tried for hours but there is know way to break it."

Elrond glanced at the Istar, he noticed that the other looked grim and a bit concerned. "What do you think of this my friend?"

Mithrandir shrugged. "I do not know. It is very odd and highly suspicious. Not many know the old magic's anymore and its way to draining to use. Now let us go to the forest and I will be able to tell you more after I see this barrier."

The others nodded in agreement and set out for the forest once more. It took another hour and soon they were finally there. Elrond was not surprised to see other elves from Mirkwood camped nearby since Thranduil would not come alone. Dismounting from his horse he followed Telindel and the others to the forest edge. He watched as Mithrandir walked up to the forest and stop. The Istar raised a hand and seemed to touch something. It sparked blue and radiated out from his palm. Faint whispers were heard but Elrond could not understand what his friend was saying.

Mithrandir was puzzled by the barrier and the magic signature. It felt somehow familiar and yet not at the same time. Something very odd was going on and he wondered if perhaps another Maiar had set up this spell. But only he and Saruman were even in theses parts and they hadn't done it. Whatever the reason, he needed to figure out a way to create a whole and not damage the barrier. That way he would not alert who ever had casted the spell and they could sneak inside. Turning back to the elves, he nodded and smiled.

"I will need time to create a whole in the barrier. For now I suggest rest but be prepared, it will not take me long to figure it out."

Elrond nodded and turned away. He headed towards the camp and heard the other elves following. Hopefully it wouldn't take the Istar long and they would be able to rescue the others. He prayed to Ilúvatar that nothing bad would happen to the others until then and keep them safe.

~

The room was quiet and the elf leaned against the headboard. It had been many hours since Selamant had left the room last night and had yet returned. During this time he had been unable to sleep and had sat up thinking. His wounds were slowly healing and in another few days he would be healed. Perhaps then he could plan an escape but then what about Estel? He just couldn't leave him and he doubted he would go with him willingly. Words from last night came back to him and he wondered if it was a dream. The boy had spoken of remembering him and called him friend. If it was not a dream then Selamant or Estel did remember and yet why would he hide if from him? Was the boy truly happy being here and serving under Serutia? And yet he did not believe it because Estel had seemed sad to not remember the past. Many thoughts ran circles in his head and he slammed his fist on the bed in frustration. The door opening snapped him from his thoughts and he watched the boy enter. Selamant was regarding him warily and the elf wondered why. He watched the mortal walk towards him and stop.

"How are you feeling Legolas?"

He blinked at the question and shrugged. "I have been better but I am fine."

Legolas watched the boy nod and walk over towards the window. He wanted to ask if he did remember his life as Estel but was hesitant. Something in the Selamant's tense posture warned him not to and he let it alone for now. Eventually he would ask him and see what happened. Theses mussing were cut short, when the door was flung open and Orcs appeared.

Selamant stalked forward and stood protectively in front of the bed. He glared at the two Orcs and watched them break eye contact.

"What is the meaning of this intrusion?" he snarled angrily.

One of the Orcs glanced at him nervously. "The lady demands the elf be brought down to the courtyard now and you as well."

This was distressing news and Selamant didn't like it. Serutia was up to something and it wouldn't be good for the elf or his father.

"Very well but I will bring him."

The two Orcs were about to protest but quickly stopped after his glare. Turning back to Legolas, he regarded the elf for a moment and sighed.

"I will have to carry you Legolas since I do not think your body can handle the strain of walking just yet."

Irritation flashed in the blue eyes and Legolas frowned unhappily. He did not want to be carried around like a child but he knew that the boy was right. If he tried to walk then he would probably fall and give the Orcs a good laugh. Nodding his head, he smothered the groan of pain when Selamant picked him up.

"Sorry." Selamant said softly. Turning to the Orcs once more, he glared at them. "Well lead the way."

The Orcs rushed to obey and he smirked in satisfaction. He began to follow them and tried to ignore the elf's intense gaze. If he looked at Legolas he somehow knew that his friend would know he remembered. And right now that would be a bad thing since he still had not decided. Somehow he knew though that today would be the day and a choice would need to be made. Following the Orcs outside, he wasn't too surprised to see Orcs and humans standing at attention in the courtyard. Groto and the cloaked one stood at the head of the group.

Groto spotted him and smiled widely. "Selamant come over here now and bring the elf."

Tightening his grip on Legolas, he walked through the crowd and stopped in front of the Orc.

"What is going on?"

"Can you not tell my friend?" Groto grinned maliciously. "It's our entertainment for the day."

Selamant felt Legolas shift in his embrace and stroked his back soothingly. He felt the elf start but ignored it for now. Something about the way Groto was acting was making him nervous and he tensed.

"Entertainment?"

The Orc grinned smugly. "Why yes the beating of king Thranduil. Didn't you know about that?"

"My father?" Legolas gasped in shock and fear. His father must have arrived when he was unconscious and Selamant had not even told him.

"Yes your father and he should be arriving soon with our lady."

Legolas could hear the smugness in Groto's voice and he wanted to kill him. Ignoring the Orc, he looked up at the mortal and gripped his tunic tightly. Betrayal was eating at his soul and he wanted to cry his anguish. His friend had let this happen and it was irrational to think it but how could he not.

"You knew my father had been captured and yet didn't tell me. Why?"

Selamant could feel the blue eyes looking at him but he would not look back. Turmoil raged in his soul and he closed his eyes. He truly wished that he had never come back and languished still in Mandos Halls. Perhaps then known of this would have happened and everyone would have been better off. He was about to answer the elf, when the doors opened and all eyes turned in that direction. Serutia stepped through with a happy grin that made him tense and he gasped. Feun dragged the chained Thranduil out and the king fell to his knees. The once long golden hair was cut jagged to his shoulders and his brilliant green eyes were dulled in pain. Thranduil appeared worse then before and he heard Legolas cry out in anguish.

Serutia took a few steps forward and grabbed the elf's hair. Smiling in triumph she looked at them all and laughed.

"Now who is up for a little torture entertainment?"

~

TBC

So sorry about the delay but college can kick butt and so can my dumb demo homework. Luckily I had most of this chapter written and just need to add some more stuff. Hmm hope it came out okay and sorry about the uh evil cliffie lol. Had to do it since everyone else does it or something like that. Bet know one thought that Lossëdil would be back but just had to add him. Well hope everyone enjoys this chapter and I am off to bed.