Middle Earth Gamer

The Escape From the Woodland Realm

The Elvish rangers escorted the Dwarves through the winding paths of the Elvenking's Halls, the soft glow of lanterns illuminating the elegant arches and intricate carvings of the walls. Taranis walked with the others, his hands bound, but his mind raced with thoughts of escape. He glanced around, noting the grace with which the Elves moved and the beauty of their surroundings, even as anxiety gripped him.

 As they approached the grand hall, Taranis caught a glimpse of a figure observing them from the shadows—an Elven maiden, poised and graceful, with long hair flowing like silk. He felt a strange sense of curiosity; She looked concerned yet determined, her keen eyes watching their procession with interest.

Who is that?" Taranis muttered to himself, straining to catch another glance.

Just then, as the group halted in front of the grand doors, the Elven maiden stepped forward, her expression softening as she looked at him. "You are not as they say," she said, her voice melodic and calm.

Taranis blinked in surprise, unsure how to respond. "And who might you be?" he asked, trying to mask his curiosity.

"I am Aredhel, sister of Legolas and Princess of The Greenwood ," she replied with a slight smile, as if sensing his surprise. "And I can see that you are not just another Dwarf."

Taranis's eyes widened. "Legolas has a sister?" he exclaimed, taken aback. "I had no idea! Forgive me; I didn't mean to intrude. It's just... unusual." 

Aredhel chuckled softly, her laughter like music in the tense atmosphere. "I understand. Many do not realize I exist outside the shadow of my brother. But right now, we must focus on your escape."

"Escape?" Taranis repeated, his heart racing at the possibility. "Do you really mean that?"

"Yes," Aredhel said, her expression turning serious. " My Father may not wish to aid you, but I do. You and your friends deserve a chance to continue your journey."

With a nod, Taranis felt a spark of hope. "Then let's find a way out of here."

In the great hall, Thorin was brought before King Thranduil, who sat upon his throne, his demeanor regal and aloof. Legolas stood beside his father, arms crossed, watching the proceedings with a mixture of curiosity and disdain.

"What brings you to my realm, Dwarf?" Thranduil's voice rang out, cutting through the air like a blade. "You seek the Lonely Mountain, do you not?"

Thorin glared defiantly at the Elvenking. "I seek my people's home and the treasure that lies within. You know why I am here."

"Yes," Thranduil replied smoothly, a sly smile creeping onto his lips. "And I would offer you my aid, should you be willing to share some of that wealth."

Thorin's expression hardened. "You turned your back on us when we needed you most. You offered no help when Smaug descended upon the Lonely Mountain. Why would I share my treasures with you?""A foolish decision," Thranduil said coldly. "Perhaps I should remind you of your circumstances."

Thorin's fists clenched. "I will not be a pawn in your games, Thranduil."

With a wave of his hand, Thranduil commanded, "Take him away. Let him reflect on his decision in the dungeons."

As Thorin was led away, Taranis watched with a mixture of concern and anger. "Thorin, wait!" he shouted, but it was too late. The Dwarves were herded toward their cells, and Taranis felt a wave of hopelessness wash over him.  

Once inside the dimly lit cell, Kíli examined a small talisman he had found in the chamber, the faint glimmer of the pendant catching the light. He looked up as Tauriel approached, curiosity and concern in her eyes.