Double Dark Lords AU – MisbehavingMaiar: Tumblr Archive

admirable-mairon:

misbehavingmaiar:

admirable-mairon:

misbehavingmaiar:

Sometime in the night, longing crept under his skin, and a state of distraction hounds him throughout his day.

He catches himself leaning closer to people as they speak, falling half in love with the expressions of strangers. A need for touch burns like an itch in the back of his thoughts; inconvenient and frustrating. He envies the errant brush of a hand across another’s throat, the silk hem of a constricting frock.

Seeking the relief of solitude, away from the storm of exchanged glances and wind-caught scents, he is driven to his chambers; but the yearning haunts him still, and he finds himself pacing like a lion in a cage, half hoping, half dreading that someone will intrude upon his suffering.

He could practically feel the need – the annoyance – the tension – that seemed to surround his brother that day. It would be highly uncouth to mention such a thing in front of their guests and servants however, and so Mairon says nothing….. even though it causes arousal and jealousy to burn within his chest. The thought that his beloved ‘brother’ might go to another to sate his need was simply unacceptable.

When Sauron left, Mairon waited only for a moment to assure their guests that everything was fine with the Lord, and that he would happily check up on him – Make sure that he wasn’t ill – before following Sauron to his chambers.

He had to think now… How would he be able to guarantee that Sauron would find him arousing? Wider hips seemed like a good choice, and so he let his grow the slightest bit to give himself a more feminine curve. His brother loved chubby humans (for some reason) so some softness might be good, though that wouldn’t be noticed unless Sauron TOUCHED him.

Finally he raised a hand to knock on his brother’s door, practically purring as he spoke.
“Are you well, brother? Our guests seem worried that you have caught some form of illness”

Sauron hissed through his teeth at the sound of his brother’s voice, which was sultry under normal circumstances, and today practically dripped with coy sensuality– ostensibly for the sole purpose of aggravating him.

He did not wait for a second knock. Flinging the door open he dragged his brother inside by the collar of his thin robe, fangs bared in his face.

“You know very well I am not ill. You know exactly what is wrong with me, or you wouldn’t be here, reeking like a bitch in heat,” he spat.

Something was different about Mairon; the heft of him was off, the drape of his clothes altered in some subtle way… He stood blinking for a moment in confusion, the nearness and heat of the other like a cloud of perfume that fogged over his brain. A rolling growl like thunder left his chest, and he pinned the smaller Maia flush against the door, using the weight of his frame to slam it shut.

“You changed yourself. You brazen little succubus, what have you done,” he rasped, feeling drunk, an awful mixture of temper and lust brewing in his core. His hand thrust under the silk of Mairon’s robes, squeezing the cushion of flesh he found there, just over his usually narrow hips. It was unfair. It was a cheap, cruel tactic to use such a familiar body against him. He filled both hands with the softness of gold thighs, pressing his mouth to the pulse just under Mairon’s jaw, his inhibitions and his breath leaving him both at once.

He gasped as he was tugged inside, arousal burning all the hotter inside him at how close his brother was. His rage made him beautiful and it was as though there was an air of testosterone and phermones surrounding him. He breathed in deeply, eyes glowing brighter as a mischiveous grin played on his lips.

“It seems fitting that I take the role of a bitch in heat seeing as you’re acting and smelling no better than a hound in rut” he purred, licking his lips eagerly.

Yet another gasp was forced out of him as he was pressed against the door and he let out an eager, keening little noise. Yes…!! He had the power here….!! Oh how marvelous it was to see his beautiful brother reduced to such a needy state when it was usually the other way around! He had the upper hand despite his lesser size.

“I merely wished to help you, beloved brother” he cooed, moaning shamelessly as Sauron groped at him and kissed his neck. He knew how to be sensual and attractive and OH he was going to use it….!
“I need you, my lord brother~ Please give it to me…~!” He breathed, tilting his head further to the side to expose his neck in a most submissive way, his mouth open just a fraction.

“I beg of you~ Take me~”

So viciously did he hate Mairon in that moment… every inch, every pre-meditated flattery, every licentious word that dripped from him made him want to spit fire like a balrog and roar to shake the earth. For a moment steam rose from his gritted teeth.

“You think I don’t know what you’re doing? You creeping parasite, you reprobate–”

He wrenched smaller Maia around by one shoulder and slammed him back face-first into the door so that the frame of it rattled and creaked dangerously.

“You think this–” he grabbed a fistful of his Brother’s soft stomach and twisted it savagely, “is enough to make me forget what you are? You think I’d let you climb over me with that stolen body, sink your golden claws into my back?”

Silk rent easily in his hands, falling in shreds around Mairon’s figure, exposing his freckled back and newly rounded hips, their shape so familiar and agonizing. His breath hitched for long second– was it really Mairon’s intent to wear this shape, this forbidden, torturous shape? Had he even known what a betrayal it was? He had never seen Melkor, the way he had; mother of monsters, all voluptuous gold and thorns. Mairon’s master had been another.

No, this could be no accident. There he was, naked and framed by the entryway, molten hair streaming over his strong, angled shoulders down to the dip of his back, bowed like an instrument; the way his thighs met and kissed at the center, their sweet curves leading up to a perfect, heavy cheeks like ripe fruit waiting to be bitten. But was it his memory or this depraved need that lent the image such power over him? Every breath Mairon took made his plump flesh tremble and Thû was suddenly beyond caring. It was still a deception, still a ploy to make him lose control, give his Brother everything he wanted without thinking about the price…

He shook his head, wrath seething to a boil inside him once more; there was nothing he would put past his Brother, no sin he’d not commit to get the upper hand.

“I will have you,” he growled, loosening his belt and opening the front of his leggings, “but I’ll kiss the foot of Manwë before I’ll suffer you around prow.”
He spat in one hand and slicked the fold of Mairon’s ass, hefting his cock in the other, letting it settle ponderously between its cheeks and slide up towards the small of his dappled back. He tried not to let the relief escape him as a groan, but his chest heaved nonetheless, and Thû gripped the Maia’s hips, hauling him backward at his need.

admirable-mairon:

misbehavingmaiar:

Sometime in the night, longing crept under his skin, and a state of distraction hounds him throughout his day.

He catches himself leaning closer to people as they speak, falling half in love with the expressions of strangers. A need for touch burns like an itch in the back of his thoughts; inconvenient and frustrating. He envies the errant brush of a hand across another’s throat, the silk hem of a constricting frock.

Seeking the relief of solitude, away from the storm of exchanged glances and wind-caught scents, he is driven to his chambers; but the yearning haunts him still, and he finds himself pacing like a lion in a cage, half hoping, half dreading that someone will intrude upon his suffering.

He could practically feel the need – the annoyance – the tension – that seemed to surround his brother that day. It would be highly uncouth to mention such a thing in front of their guests and servants however, and so Mairon says nothing….. even though it causes arousal and jealousy to burn within his chest. The thought that his beloved ‘brother’ might go to another to sate his need was simply unacceptable.

When Sauron left, Mairon waited only for a moment to assure their guests that everything was fine with the Lord, and that he would happily check up on him – Make sure that he wasn’t ill – before following Sauron to his chambers.

He had to think now… How would he be able to guarantee that Sauron would find him arousing? Wider hips seemed like a good choice, and so he let his grow the slightest bit to give himself a more feminine curve. His brother loved chubby humans (for some reason) so some softness might be good, though that wouldn’t be noticed unless Sauron TOUCHED him.

Finally he raised a hand to knock on his brother’s door, practically purring as he spoke.
“Are you well, brother? Our guests seem worried that you have caught some form of illness”

Sauron hissed through his teeth at the sound of his brother’s voice, which was sultry under normal circumstances, and today practically dripped with coy sensuality– ostensibly for the sole purpose of aggravating him.

He did not wait for a second knock. Flinging the door open he dragged his brother inside by the collar of his thin robe, fangs bared in his face.

“You know very well I am not ill. You know exactly what is wrong with me, or you wouldn’t be here, reeking like a bitch in heat,” he spat.

Something was different about Mairon; the heft of him was off, the drape of his clothes altered in some subtle way… He stood blinking for a moment in confusion, the nearness and heat of the other like a cloud of perfume that fogged over his brain. A rolling growl like thunder left his chest, and he pinned the smaller Maia flush against the door, using the weight of his frame to slam it shut.

“You changed yourself. You brazen little succubus, what have you done,” he rasped, feeling drunk, an awful mixture of temper and lust brewing in his core. His hand thrust under the silk of Mairon’s robes, squeezing the cushion of flesh he found there, just over his usually narrow hips. It was unfair. It was a cheap, cruel tactic to use such a familiar body against him. He filled both hands with the softness of gold thighs, pressing his mouth to the pulse just under Mairon’s jaw, his inhibitions and his breath leaving him both at once.

It had taken him a while to tie the now mortal Maia up and drag him along but since Mairon had chosen to be bothersome and uncooperative Ji Indur had finally hoisted him over his shoulder and carried him away. Out of Barad Dûr and to the stables. On horseback they left Mordor, undisturbed by anybody as the wraith had made sure to gag his master and set a cloth bag over his head. Now they were making their way towards the place where Ji Indur’s ship was anchored, awaiting their arrival.

admirable-mairon:

admirable-mairon-moved:

Mairon had exhausted himself rather early on as he tried to fight and didn’t realize how weak a human body is.

He slumped, even dozing off from sheer exhaustion as they traveled on horse-back. Because of this, he didn’t even realize where they were. He could barely hear the waves as his hearing had been muted.

Previous reply here

It took a while for Sauron’s words to sink in properly – for the disgusting meaning behind them to take root in Mairon’s mind. He had been worried before, maybe even afraid – but now he was terrified.
They would doom him to literally rot…! To have his body that was made to be eternal become a rotting, decaying prison. He’d be frail, he’d become worthless, he’d be ugly and rotten, and it terrified him.

It was terrifying for many reasons. Being frail and weak like a kitten was not an experience he enjoyed, and just the thought of being trapped in a body of flesh that was constantly decaying was beyond horrifying.

His vision…!! His many goals…!!!! How was he supposed to be able to get Melkor out of the void if he rotted away in his brother’s tower!? Would he even end up in the void afterwards? Or would he go wherever humans go when they die? Would he ever see Melkor again…?!

“Brother, please…!” he tried, barely more than a whisper, just before Sauron turned to Ji-Indur to free him.

Mairon was pale by now, silent tears trailing down his freckled cheeks as he could barely even feel the pain in his scalp at all. He could feel his bond to Ji being severed – could feel how that part of his fëa was being cut from him, and he gasped, choking and coughing as it felt as if Sauron was tugging at something within his chest – tugging at his very heart.

It was uncomfortable, but not agonizing, and he could handle it.
He had lost Ji – he knew that and there was nothing he could do to get him back. He still didn’t know what it was he had done to make Ji hate him so – He had been a kind master. He had punished him when he disobeyed, of course, but nothing more than that. Ji-Indur had chosen the ring – he had chosen his own fate – Mairon really didn’t think he could be blamed for it at all.

When Ossë spoke directly to him, the amount of his tears increased and he whimpered. How could Ossë use that against him now…!?

“Cousin, please…! I didn’t…! I didn’t know you didn’t want it…!!! You said you forgave me…! You said yes! You spent time with my wolves – with me – you laughed…! You smiled and-and I…! I didn’t know…!!! Please don’t let him…! Please…!! I’m sorry…! I’m sorry! I didn’t know – I swear I didn’t know I hurt you! I only wanted to be good to you, I swear! Don’t do this…!” he begged, until Ossë lowered him and pressed him against Sauron’s chest.

That was when his pleading turned into pure screams of terror. He squirmed and fought, like a cat that was unwilling to be held he twisted and turned in a desperate attempt to escape his brother’s grip. In his terror he reverted from common tongue to valarin – his fear warping his speech into their native tongue.

“Please no! No! You can’t do this! I’m begging you – I’ll do anything!! I didn’t know! I DIDN’T KNOW!!!” he sobbed. “You can’t do this!!! I will atone from my sins in any way you want! Harm me like I did you! Whip me – flay me – I will accept all of it! Eat me alive and crush my body – but I’m begging you not to lock me into a rotting prison of flesh…!!! Please! I must – I can’t – I will never be able to see Master again…! I’m begging you!!!”

@misbehavingmaiar @masteroftheseas @ji-indur

–Ossë’s reply–
–Ji’s reply–

“Silence!” Receiving the thrashing figure into a vice of an embrace, Sauron bared his teeth at his brother’s ear. “You will see Him again. We will see him together. But it will be I who frees him, not thou.”

It took no more than an instant to restrain Mairon’s trebling hand, corpse-cold and bent like a dying spider; another to slide the gold ring off its crooked finger.

Fixated on the glittering prize, he replied without sparing the wraith a glance. “Mordor belongs to me now. Your brethren are free in that they may choose to stay and serve me, or resign themselves to a mortal death. Their decision matters little. Their rings are mine, and there will always be more men eager for power.”

Then his smile flashed white in the darkness. “Thank you, Cousin.”

The two rings flashed, joined together at their point of contact like a symbol of infinity, then pooled together into One. The burst of light that followed was like the collapse of a star, an explosion of light and a inward surge of pressure so great that for a moment it reversed the tide.

From the water’s edge, the great fell beast keened and caught its balance as suddenly a scouring wind escaped the vortex, hot as a desert sandstorm that crackled with lightning. Out of the tempest Sauron emerged, seeming larger than before, his stride grander, a feeling of inescapable gravity surrounding him as he walked.

Exhaling a plume of white steam towards the moon, Sauron shut his eyes as the thrill of having expanded doubly in reach and power caught up with him in a rush of new sensation, an elated laugh bubbling out of him.

“Incredible,” he gasped, turning his ring-bearing hand over before his eyes, as though he could not comprehend the sight of it. Still marveling at himself he reached down and as if an afterthought, plucked Mairon off the sand, draping him over one arm as though he were no more than a length of damp cloth.

@admirable-mairon @masteroftheseas @ji-indur

It had taken him a while to tie the now mortal Maia up and drag him along but since Mairon had chosen to be bothersome and uncooperative Ji Indur had finally hoisted him over his shoulder and carried him away. Out of Barad Dûr and to the stables. On horseback they left Mordor, undisturbed by anybody as the wraith had made sure to gag his master and set a cloth bag over his head. Now they were making their way towards the place where Ji Indur’s ship was anchored, awaiting their arrival.

ji-indur:

misbehavingmaiar :

admirable-mairon:

admirable-mairon-moved:

Mairon had exhausted himself rather early on as he tried to fight and didn’t realize how weak a human body is.

He slumped, even dozing off from sheer exhaustion as they traveled on horse-back. Because of this, he didn’t even realize where they were. He could barely hear the waves as his hearing had been muted.

He had barely been concious of what was going on around him because of the immense amount of water around him – pushing – flowing – threatening to drag him into the deeps – so in a way he was grateful that Ossë pulled him away from it.

It was painful however – much more painful than it had been when he was a maia – and he couldn’t help but yelp as he was hoisted up like that. His many years with Melkor had taught him to stay quiet most often however, so when Ossë twisted his hand in his hair, he remained silent. He knew how to lessen his pain somewhat, and therefore reached up to take hold of Ossë’s hand. It didn’t do much and he didn’t try to pry him off, but it helped to get some of the weight off his scalp.

He was panting heavily however, as he tried to understand what they were talking about. He didn’t get the details – He didn’t get the exact purpose of either of them – but it was very clear that Sauron would not help him.

Sauron – His brother to whom he had gone to get help in his hour of need – Would hurt him worse than Ossë ever could. No fair judgement… No fair trial…. Just the cruelty the two of them were known for.

“Traitor…!” he hissed at Sauron, before being cut off by how carelessly Ossë handled him. Even if he had planned on saying more things – spewing more accusations at his brother – the abrupt tossing of his fragile body made sure that he couldn’t say anything else.

It was a miracle that his neck didn’t snap (he had done so accidently with more than enough elves and men to know just how little force it took to break bones), but the force still tugged and tore at him. It put great strain on his muscles and nerves, and in some places the skin actually even tore, causing him to bleed.

Overall he was intact, but the physical trauma was still enough to make him whimper.

@ji-indur @masteroftheseas @misbehavingmaiar

———-((Ossë’s reply))

“Traitor?” Sauron laughed. “But I am fulfilling the very letter of my word! I promised you I would protect your life, ensure you came to no harm for the duration of your curse, and so I shall!” He strode over the sand to where Ossë held his sibling prone and kicking in the air, his mewling sweet in the dark lord’s ear.

He grasped Mairon’s narrow chin between gloved thumb and finger, squeezing hard with a creak of leather while his voice dripped honey. “I will take good care of you, brother, for as long as you shall live– and it will be a hundred years at least, I guarantee it,” he smiled. “Long enough for your hair to turn white and recede past your ears, for your skin to sag and turn spotty as old fruit, for all that is taut and smooth to loosen and wrinkle, for your amber eyes to grow dull and cloudy, for your gut to billow and your knees protrude, your back bend and your jowls quiver… Oh, my pretty, pretty brother… don’t worry. I’ll look after you even when you no longer have teeth to chew with, and any attempt you make to end your days before Eru calls you home, I will forestall. You see? I will be keeping my promise to you for years and years to come.”

He stroked Mairon’s fair cheek. It amused him to see his brother dangle so, like a child’s top in the hands of a storm. His cousin-Maia’s wrath was absolute, terrible as lightning at sea, chilling the air and whipping the surf into a lashing spray. It froze him to the core, but delighted him all the same.

Releasing his brother’s face roughly, he pulled back to address the towering figure of Ossë.

“I swear it,” he said, touching his chest. “And to you, wraith, I swear also: when his power is undone, you will be his servant no longer– nor any other’s. But we must hurry; it fast approaches the hour of the curse’s end.”

He beckoned to the kneeling corsair, one of the nine undead men his brother had enslaved to his power, the mirror of his own magic-bound servants. “You, friend of Ossë,” he urged, “you need not wait to receive your boon. I will give it to you now, as a gesture of good faith. Come, give me your ring-bearing hand, and I will unshackle you from his will.”

@admirable-mairon @ji-indur @masteroftheseas

As they had reached the shore again, Ji Indur stood aside to not get in between the Maiar. He was but a mere mortal, nay even less than that and he knew that while Mairon’s anger could not hurt him right now, Sauron’s and osse’s fury could. And he doubted they would hold back should it come to more than just an exchange of angry words. Watching everything unfold with his master’s fury palpable in the air and yet it being such an empty, helpless fury- it did his heart well but somehow he couldn’t truly enjoy it.

Too often had he struggled like this, at the receiving end of the Dark Lord’s overpowering will. Out of control and like a puppet on strings. It was a fate he had not wished about anybody else, not even his worst enemy. But was it not Mairon who he hated the most? Was this a fate he wished for Him? To age, to grow old- it had been something the wraith had feared. Enough for him to take that accursed ring. To know that Mairon would suffer the fate he had tried to escape but would suffer it eternally…

Ah, it was odd. His anger had been drowned by the cold water, the flame extinguished and all he felt was a strange sort of pity for what would become of his master should Osse and he accept Sauron’s offer.

Though was there even a discussion to be had? Of course Sauron was right. Should the Master of the Seas use this moment to end Mairon’s life to take revenge, he would have to pay the price because the Valar would question him for such an act. But to keep Him alive and chained up… Eventually He would regain his powers. And then…

He had been kneeling as matters had gotten heated and now as Sauron called him, beckoning him closer, the Umbarim slowly rose to his feet and approached the Maia. Lifting his hand after removing his gauntlet he revealed the ring that had been stuck on his finger for four thousand years. There was a sudden profound fear. What if it was a trap? What if this was his last moment to be? But Ji Indur knew he could not falter, red eyes meeting golden amber fire as he took a deep breath.

“Free at last…” he said and was surprised how weak his own voice sounded, filled with fear and disbelief. ‘Tis was…too good to be true, was it not? “Take the ring away from me, I beg you. Let me roam the ocean forever, bound to and by nobody but my own will and the tides of time.”

@misbehavingmaiar @admirable-mairon @masteroftheseas

On principle, Sauron liked the Men of the East. By nature or perhaps simply by accident of geography, they were largely free of indoctrination by elves or Valar. They had their own way of understanding the world, inclined to explore and study the earth to find answers, weaving their own philosophies from whole cloth. Here was one, he thought, who had drunk deep of the well of life and was loathe to give up its pleasures, even if it had cost him all freedom. It reminded him of a parable of a man who had sold his eyes for a chance to see the world; a sad fate, for one so beloved of the sea.

Not that he would have spared the man, had it been one of his rings on that finger and not his brother’s. Having a servant who was at once beholden to him and to Ossë, who could navigate the waters without fear of the ocean’s wrath, would be a powerful asset indeed.

Sauron reviewed his own words carefully– had he indeed promised that the corsair would be free of all powers, not only Mairon’s? Yes… damn it all. He had been too quick, too eager to close the deal between them, had not considered every potential gain.
A loss he would have to accept; if all went as planned, he would still come out ahead in this transaction.

Taking the salt-weathered hand in his own, he met the wraith’s eyes, whose weariness was so much older than the lined and handsome face that bore them. Time had taken much from him, and that was something it was not in the power of a Maia to return.

“Free you I shall, but I will not take the ring from you; not if you indeed wish to roam the sea forever,” he explained gently. “But it will be yours to remove, if your eternal life becomes too burdensome.”

Emerald facets flickered with moonlight. The ring was heavy and lustrous; it felt like wealth that wanted spending, like a laughing voice urging you to stay another hour. It would be difficult to unbind its power without breaking it, and without damaging the spirit it held in thrall.

In his mind, he held up its mechanism for scrutiny. He could see it’s power, a bright green circuit of light whose coursing energy was fed by a vast wheel of fire. The golden wheel had many such looping tributaries, twisted off from its main body like jeweler’s wire, each taking on a discreet color.
Carefully, he drew the razor of his mind between the green and the gold. He felt like a watchmaker attempting to fix a clock while it was still running. Sparks shot from the point of contact, for great ring fought against the loss of energy, resisted any change in momentum.

For a moment Sauron feared he would lose control-– but his own ring was equal to his brother’s, and its bright power matched it in speed, forcing stability on the rebelling system.

With utmost precision and perfect timing, he twisted off the circuit of green light, giving it a final push so that it continued spinning on its own power, independent of its source. Less bright than before, it nevertheless continued on its separate journey without a flicker.

Sauron opened his eyes, finding the gold band on his finger glowing white hot, until he released the corsair’s hand.

“It is done,” he breathed, aware suddenly of sweat on his brow, cooling along with his ring in the night air. He looked to Ossë and the dangling maia in mortal form that was his prisoner, and licked his lips. “…And now, by your leave and by my Cousin’s, I will take my brother, and bestow on him the fate he deserves.”

@ji-indur @masteroftheseas @admirable-mairon

It had taken him a while to tie the now mortal Maia up and drag him along but since Mairon had chosen to be bothersome and uncooperative Ji Indur had finally hoisted him over his shoulder and carried him away. Out of Barad Dûr and to the stables. On horseback they left Mordor, undisturbed by anybody as the wraith had made sure to gag his master and set a cloth bag over his head. Now they were making their way towards the place where Ji Indur’s ship was anchored, awaiting their arrival.

admirable-mairon:

admirable-mairon-moved:

Mairon had exhausted himself rather early on as he tried to fight and didn’t realize how weak a human body is.

He slumped, even dozing off from sheer exhaustion as they traveled on horse-back. Because of this, he didn’t even realize where they were. He could barely hear the waves as his hearing had been muted.

He had barely been concious of what was going on around him because of the immense amount of water around him – pushing – flowing – threatening to drag him into the deeps – so in a way he was grateful that Ossë pulled him away from it.

It was painful however – much more painful than it had been when he was a maia – and he couldn’t help but yelp as he was hoisted up like that. His many years with Melkor had taught him to stay quiet most often however, so when Ossë twisted his hand in his hair, he remained silent. He knew how to lessen his pain somewhat, and therefore reached up to take hold of Ossë’s hand. It didn’t do much and he didn’t try to pry him off, but it helped to get some of the weight off his scalp.

He was panting heavily however, as he tried to understand what they were talking about. He didn’t get the details – He didn’t get the exact purpose of either of them – but it was very clear that Sauron would not help him.

Sauron – His brother to whom he had gone to get help in his hour of need – Would hurt him worse than Ossë ever could. No fair judgement… No fair trial…. Just the cruelty the two of them were known for.

“Traitor…!” he hissed at Sauron, before being cut off by how carelessly Ossë handled him. Even if he had planned on saying more things – spewing more accusations at his brother – the abrupt tossing of his fragile body made sure that he couldn’t say anything else.

It was a miracle that his neck didn’t snap (he had done so accidently with more than enough elves and men to know just how little force it took to break bones), but the force still tugged and tore at him. It put great strain on his muscles and nerves, and in some places the skin actually even tore, causing him to bleed.

Overall he was intact, but the physical trauma was still enough to make him whimper.

@ji-indur @masteroftheseas @misbehavingmaiar

———-((Ossë’s reply))

“Traitor?” Sauron laughed. “But I am fulfilling the very letter of my word! I promised you I would protect your life, ensure you came to no harm for the duration of your curse, and so I shall!” He strode over the sand to where Ossë held his sibling prone and kicking in the air, his mewling sweet in the dark lord’s ear.

He grasped Mairon’s narrow chin between gloved thumb and finger, squeezing hard with a creak of leather while his voice dripped honey. “I will take good care of you, brother, for as long as you shall live– and it will be a hundred years at least, I guarantee it,” he smiled. “Long enough for your hair to turn white and recede past your ears, for your skin to sag and turn spotty as old fruit, for all that is taut and smooth to loosen and wrinkle, for your amber eyes to grow dull and cloudy, for your gut to billow and your knees protrude, your back bend and your jowls quiver… Oh, my pretty, pretty brother… don’t worry. I’ll look after you even when you no longer have teeth to chew with, and any attempt you make to end your days before Eru calls you home, I will forestall. You see? I will be keeping my promise to you for years and years to come.”

He stroked Mairon’s fair cheek. It amused him to see his brother dangle so, like a child’s top in the hands of a storm. His cousin-Maia’s wrath was absolute, terrible as lightning at sea, chilling the air and whipping the surf into a lashing spray. It froze him to the core, but delighted him all the same.

Releasing his brother’s face roughly, he pulled back to address the towering figure of Ossë.

“I swear it,” he said, touching his chest. “And to you, wraith, I swear also: when his power is undone, you will be his servant no longer– nor any other’s. But we must hurry; it fast approaches the hour of the curse’s end.”

He beckoned to the kneeling corsair, one of the nine undead men his brother had enslaved to his power, the mirror of his own magic-bound servants. “You, friend of Ossë,” he urged, “you need not wait to receive your boon. I will give it to you now, as a gesture of good faith. Come, give me your ring-bearing hand, and I will unshackle you from his will.”

@admirable-mairon @ji-indur @masteroftheseas

It had taken him a while to tie the now mortal Maia up and drag him along but since Mairon had chosen to be bothersome and uncooperative Ji Indur had finally hoisted him over his shoulder and carried him away. Out of Barad Dûr and to the stables. On horseback they left Mordor, undisturbed by anybody as the wraith had made sure to gag his master and set a cloth bag over his head. Now they were making their way towards the place where Ji Indur’s ship was anchored, awaiting their arrival.

masteroftheseas:

misbehavingmaiar :

ji-indur:

admirable-mairon :

admirable-mairon-moved:

Mairon had exhausted himself rather early on as he tried to fight and didn’t realize how weak a human body is.

He slumped, even dozing off from sheer exhaustion as they traveled on horse-back. Because of this, he didn’t even realize where they were. He could barely hear the waves as his hearing had been muted.

It was true that he had been terrified to the point of fainting – unconcious and weak in the wraith’s arms – but with all the ruckus going on and the shifting back and forth he couldn’t help but wake up.

And oh how he wished he hadn’t….

He startled and thrashed feebly, but there was no way he could get out of Ji-Indur’s firm grip. The cold numbed him, both from the water and the wraith’s body, but he still managed to jerk weakly in terror as he saw the gathering going on. Ji-Indur with his undead face and toxic breath – Ossë in all of his glory – the OCEAN…. And finally his brother.

He could have wept in relief.

“Brother…!” He cried out weakly, not even managing the courtesy of greeting his cousin.
“Please brother…! Get me out of here…!”

@ji-indur ( @masteroftheseas , @misbehavingmaiar )

When the Fell Beast appeared, its dark shadow falling over those in the boat and water, Ji Indur lifted his head and his heart sunk. He had not expected Sauron to appear but it was no greater surprise either that the Maia’s brother would come to His rescue. Wood splintered, the rowboat reduced to something that barely floated by sharp claws, the creatures shrill voice even making the injured one hurry up the ladder before collapsing on the wooden planks on board of the Kraken, tended to by two of Ji’s crew while the others watched the scene unfolding with fear and a strange sense of awe. Never before had such a meeting be witnessed, three Maiar and an undead man, bound together through the red string of fate.

Sauron’s words made the wraith’s lips twitch then turn into a thin line. He knew that escaping these invisible chains was near impossible but to hear it said so brutally made his insides vibrate with anger, hand clamping roughly over Mairon’s mouth as the now mortal Maia stirred and begged for help. “You be quiet, you /filth/.” he hissed into His ear, eyes still glowing darkly, “or by Osse I will drown you here and now as you deserve it, you bastard.”

And then Sauron spoke of freeing him, of severing those ties for good and Ji Indur eyed him warily, disbelief written all over his face. Oh, how often had he been deceived by the Maia of Aule who was now his wet and helpless prisoner. And Sauron was not much better although he felt more respect for him and not just because he was not bound to His will. But deceivers they both were, likely liars, thorough the centuries they had manipulated and bound foolish men and elves, even other Maiar to them. Why should he now trust Him just because He had said all the right words?

But for now he listened, quietly, feeling his anger wash over him in waves. Was he being played with again. Looking to Osse he knew that Sauron’s offer to his cousin was one the Master of the Seas would definitely mull over. To watch Mairon grow old and feeble, wrinkled and with graying hair… For one who was so proud of His body, His looks… The wraith knew how much that would hurt. To face the mirror in such an aged withered form every day… Ah, such punishment sounded so sweet in Ji Indur’s ears. Still…

“How can we be sure you will keep your word?” he finally dared to ask, grip on Mairon tightening to show that he would drag him down into the depths should Sauron only lift His finger against them. “Once He is returned to you, you have no reason to follow through with what you promised. And can you really sever the tie? What about my brethren? Will they be free as well? And the orc too?”

@masteroftheseas @admirable-mairon @misbehavingmaiar

“Do neither of you listen?! He is under my protection. I have given him my word I will keep him alive and intact for the duration of this curse! You give him to me, and I assist you both in your vengeance by making sure that curse is permanent: That is the exchange!” Sauron growled with an impatient flick of his hand.

He ground his teeth and exhaled slowly, pinching the bridge of his nose before continuing. “You doubt my intentions. That is understandable. You both think I am here to double-cross you. I assure you: that is not my intent. I am here to double-cross him.”

Mairon reached for him desperately from the surf in a delirium, his weak pleas for help falling on indifferent ears and a suddenly cold gaze.

“Cousin. He attacked you. He burnt you. He forced himself on you. I cannot, will not, tolerate such disgusting behavior from kin of mine. He has disgraced himself utterly. Please, for the sake of our past friendship, let me do this for you.”

Red eyes begged the maia of the sea for understanding.

“If you destroy him yourself in cold blood, in mortal form, it will be you who is dragged before the Valar for judgement! You would risk everything, but I have no more to lose.” Sauron struck his chest over the heart.
“He and I were born of the same fires, but my powers are intact. They are equal to his at their height. Whatever he has made, I can unmake– only I can give him the fate he truly deserves.”

Looking to the surf and the drenched body that kicked and squirmed there, looking cold, helpless, slender-limbed, he spat on the ivory sand.

“…You know his vanity means more to him than his life. Let me take it from him, along with his freedom. It will be my pleasure to do so. That is why I will keep my end of the bargain,” he sneered. “As for the rest, do as you will. I shall unbind your ring, and beyond that I care not where you, nor any of his rebellious servants, go.”

An evil expression wrinkled his long, elegant face. “Perhaps I’ll set him in a chair atop Barad-dur. Wouldn’t you like to see that, dear Cousin?”

@masteroftheseas @ji-indur @admirable-mairon

Ossë had been warily on the defense, but at the list of transgressions against him he straightened and flared out his fins in proud display. He had not shared that incident with many, and he did not look to the wraith as his eyes flashed to match the trails of light that danced along his skin. Striding forward in the surf, he bent to grab the mortal-Maia by his hair, lifting Mairon upright and snarling down at him before his gaze turned onto his cousin.

“I was going to chain him to the sea floor and keep him for my amusement, but I know I cannot constantly deal with his struggling and crying,” he rumbled, twisting his hand in the golden hair to make his point. “I was going to take him to the Valar and let them deal justice, where I imagine they would weigh his crimes against the Song and offer a suiting punishment, neither too cruel nor too lax.” He looked down into the face of his fragile foe..

“But I do not want fair justice,” the Ainu continued, lip curling and fangs growing to poke between his lips. “I want vengeance. I want him to suffer,” he hissed, an echo of his voice booming around them all, crashing in with the waves. “I want him to know only agony and misery and fear, and when he cannot take any more of it, I want him to shatter and be thrown into the Void!” Ossë snapped his attentions to Sauron, expression twisted in horrific fury, shadowed and sharp angled and alien, a mockery of the elven-styled face he usually wore. “And I want to watch it happen.”

Thrusting his arm out, he made as though to toss the limp form towards his cousin but didn’t release his grip on silken hair, and Mairon’s body jerked in his hand from the force of the throw. Though it seemed an offering, the distance and frothing water between them warned this was not yet a promise. “I know you get something out of this, cousin, even if you deny it. I am not a fool. But if you swear to me that I shall have my revenge, that my little pirate can once more be freed of another’s control – whatever your share, it is worth my reward.”

@ji-indur @admirable-mairon @misbehavingmaiar

It had taken him a while to tie the now mortal Maia up and drag him along but since Mairon had chosen to be bothersome and uncooperative Ji Indur had finally hoisted him over his shoulder and carried him away. Out of Barad Dûr and to the stables. On horseback they left Mordor, undisturbed by anybody as the wraith had made sure to gag his master and set a cloth bag over his head. Now they were making their way towards the place where Ji Indur’s ship was anchored, awaiting their arrival.

ji-indur:

admirable-mairon :

admirable-mairon-moved:

Mairon had exhausted himself rather early on as he tried to fight and didn’t realize how weak a human body is.

He slumped, even dozing off from sheer exhaustion as they traveled on horse-back. Because of this, he didn’t even realize where they were. He could barely hear the waves as his hearing had been muted.

It was true that he had been terrified to the point of fainting – unconcious and weak in the wraith’s arms – but with all the ruckus going on and the shifting back and forth he couldn’t help but wake up.

And oh how he wished he hadn’t….

He startled and thrashed feebly, but there was no way he could get out of Ji-Indur’s firm grip. The cold numbed him, both from the water and the wraith’s body, but he still managed to jerk weakly in terror as he saw the gathering going on. Ji-Indur with his undead face and toxic breath – Ossë in all of his glory – the OCEAN…. And finally his brother.

He could have wept in relief.

“Brother…!” He cried out weakly, not even managing the courtesy of greeting his cousin.
“Please brother…! Get me out of here…!”

@ji-indur ( @masteroftheseas , @misbehavingmaiar )

When the Fell Beast appeared, its dark shadow falling over those in the boat and water, Ji Indur lifted his head and his heart sunk. He had not expected Sauron to appear but it was no greater surprise either that the Maia’s brother would come to His rescue. Wood splintered, the rowboat reduced to something that barely floated by sharp claws, the creatures shrill voice even making the injured one hurry up the ladder before collapsing on the wooden planks on board of the Kraken, tended to by two of Ji’s crew while the others watched the scene unfolding with fear and a strange sense of awe. Never before had such a meeting be witnessed, three Maiar and an undead man, bound together through the red string of fate.

Sauron’s words made the wraith’s lips twitch then turn into a thin line. He knew that escaping these invisible chains was near impossible but to hear it said so brutally made his insides vibrate with anger, hand clamping roughly over Mairon’s mouth as the now mortal Maia stirred and begged for help. “You be quiet, you /filth/.” he hissed into His ear, eyes still glowing darkly, “or by Osse I will drown you here and now as you deserve it, you bastard.”

And then Sauron spoke of freeing him, of severing those ties for good and Ji Indur eyed him warily, disbelief written all over his face. Oh, how often had he been deceived by the Maia of Aule who was now his wet and helpless prisoner. And Sauron was not much better although he felt more respect for him and not just because he was not bound to His will. But deceivers they both were, likely liars, thorough the centuries they had manipulated and bound foolish men and elves, even other Maiar to them. Why should he now trust Him just because He had said all the right words?

But for now he listened, quietly, feeling his anger wash over him in waves. Was he being played with again. Looking to Osse he knew that Sauron’s offer to his cousin was one the Master of the Seas would definitely mull over. To watch Mairon grow old and feeble, wrinkled and with graying hair… For one who was so proud of His body, His looks… The wraith knew how much that would hurt. To face the mirror in such an aged withered form every day… Ah, such punishment sounded so sweet in Ji Indur’s ears. Still…

“How can we be sure you will keep your word?” he finally dared to ask, grip on Mairon tightening to show that he would drag him down into the depths should Sauron only lift His finger against them. “Once He is returned to you, you have no reason to follow through with what you promised. And can you really sever the tie? What about my brethren? Will they be free as well? And the orc too?”

@masteroftheseas @admirable-mairon @misbehavingmaiar

“Do neither of you listen?! He is under my protection. I have given him my word I will keep him alive and intact for the duration of this curse! You give him to me, and I assist you both in your vengeance by making sure that curse is permanent: That is the exchange!” Sauron growled with an impatient flick of his hand.

He ground his teeth and exhaled slowly, pinching the bridge of his nose before continuing. “You doubt my intentions. That is understandable. You both think I am here to double-cross you. I assure you: that is not my intent. I am here to double-cross him.”

Mairon reached for him desperately from the surf in a delirium, his weak pleas for help falling on indifferent ears and a suddenly cold gaze.

“Cousin. He attacked you. He burnt you. He forced himself on you. I cannot, will not, tolerate such disgusting behavior from kin of mine. He has disgraced himself utterly. Please, for the sake of our past friendship, let me do this for you.”

Red eyes begged the maia of the sea for understanding.

“If you destroy him yourself in cold blood, in mortal form, it will be you who is dragged before the Valar for judgement! You would risk everything, but I have no more to lose.” Sauron struck his chest over the heart.
“He and I were born of the same fires, but my powers are intact. They are equal to his at their height. Whatever he has made, I can unmake– only I can give him the fate he truly deserves.”

Looking to the surf and the drenched body that kicked and squirmed there, looking cold, helpless, slender-limbed, he spat on the ivory sand.

“…You know his vanity means more to him than his life. Let me take it from him, along with his freedom. It will be my pleasure to do so. That is why I will keep my end of the bargain,” he sneered. “As for the rest, do as you will. I shall unbind your ring, and beyond that I care not where you, nor any of his rebellious servants, go.”

An evil expression wrinkled his long, elegant face. “Perhaps I’ll set him in a chair atop Barad-dur. Wouldn’t you like to see that, dear Cousin?”

@masteroftheseas @ji-indur @admirable-mairon

It had taken him a while to tie the now mortal Maia up and drag him along but since Mairon had chosen to be bothersome and uncooperative Ji Indur had finally hoisted him over his shoulder and carried him away. Out of Barad Dûr and to the stables. On horseback they left Mordor, undisturbed by anybody as the wraith had made sure to gag his master and set a cloth bag over his head. Now they were making their way towards the place where Ji Indur’s ship was anchored, awaiting their arrival.

masteroftheseas:

misbehavingmaiar:

ji-indur:

admirable-mairon-moved:

Mairon had exhausted himself rather early on as he tried to fight and didn’t realize how weak a human body is.

He slumped, even dozing off from sheer exhaustion as they traveled on horse-back. Because of this, he didn’t even realize where they were. He could barely hear the waves as his hearing had been muted.

Ji Indur felt Osse’s presence nearing them before he saw the Maia. The water underneath them started to stir and as he looked down into the depths, the bottom so close in the blue green, he notice the massive shape of the Master of the Seas, circling them like a dangerous predator before he broke the surface, causing the Kraken to sway and a wave to wash over man and wraith, almost dragging them under for a moment. The voice reverberated inside Ji Indur’s mind and he bowed his head in a display of respect.

“I am aware of it, oh mighty Osse and I would not have brought Him under normal circumstances. But the Grey Cloaks struck him with the curse of mortality for three days and I could have ended him there and then and freed myself but alas, it was not up to me to be the first to strike. He is one of the Ainur after all and seeing how He has treated you in the last centuries I decided to bring Jim to you so you can hold council and judge him according to the crimes He has committed against you. I hope you do not see any ill will on my part. Whatever you chose to do, I will accept it as His punishment. And I will not lay hand on him myself unless you tell me to do so.”

Ji Indur was serious with his words even if it might feel like betrayal to his friends. But he had to believe in Osse to find a punishment suitable for his cousin and to help the Nine -or those willing to- to break their chains. This was the moment where he offered the watery Maia more than just rum and gold- he was offering him his very existence, as terribly corrupted it was. If the Master of the Seas would turn his back on him as well then he knew that none of the higher beings had even a shred of empathy left for what they had created. Of course it was not meant as a test but it could be very well seen like one.

@admirable-mairon @masteroftheseas @misbehavingmaiar

Suspense built in the tableau between wraith and maia, broken by the sound of distant wing beats, a pulsing thrum that grew into the crack of mighty sails as a shadow passed over the moon.

The sailors who had manned the craft bearing Ji and his captive fled splashing into the waves for safety, and a massive fell beast of raven-black scales and iron plate dropped out of the sky. The ship’s boat splintered under its claws where it landed, folding its wide, dark wings.
As if patiently awaiting instruction, the feel beast watched its master dismount with cold white eyes, sliding off its back saddle to the ground.
The rider approached, removing his flight mask, a tarnished red hammer slung at one hip, a silver-tipped nine-tails on the other.

“Cousin, we beg your pardon for the sudden intrusion,” Sauron addressed Ossë with an inclination of his head. “But it seems you are discussing the fate of one I have already laid claim to. The mortal you have half-submerged there at your feet is currently under my protection.”

He looked from the towering figure in the sea to the corsair kneeling at the water’s edge, and gave half a chuckle. “Ji-Indur. Why am I not surprised by your treachery? I wondered who had managed to smuggle him out from my own fortress… it was a short list of those capable.”

Sauron tucked the black riding mask under one arm and smiled graciously at the wary gathering. “I understand that you both have significant grievances with my brother-self, and while he is in this… delicate, mortal condition, it would be a unique opportunity for you to seek retribution. I respect this. And though I cannot allow you to kill or maul him while under my protection, I am willing to strike a bargain.”

Moonlight glinted off a heavy ring on the hand that stretched out in offering, its twin around Mairon’s finger, limp and drifting in the wave swell. Sauron smiled, and gestured first to Ji.

“Wraith, your allegiance to my brother has long troubled you. If you kill him in this state, it is likely you will remain bound to his Ring and any remnant of his will, or else destroyed outright with his passing… An uncomfortable way to spend eternity, no?” He laughed. “Perhaps you will consider letting me sever the tie between your ring and his. Only I can do this for you, with a power of equal might to the original bond. You would live on, immortal and retaining some small amount of insight beyond the world of men, free of his manipulation, invisible to his eye, even if he returns to power.”

“…And you, Cousin,” Sauron shifted, lowering his gaze briefly in respect, “you of all here have the most claim to vengeance. You wish to see him suffer for his crimes, do you not? A mere moment of satisfaction, even if that moment is a long one, would not suffice.” His eyes glowed in the grave light of the moon, colorless and sharp. “To you I offer a lifetime of his suffering. Miserable, weak, aging into grey hair, sallow skin, and sagging flesh, trembling hands and feeble limbs, powerless to do harm to you or yours ever again.”

The lord of Mordor spread his hands. “Return him to me, and these shall be my gifts to you. Do we have an agreement?”

Ossë rumbled at the wraith’s words, his gaze transfixed on the limp, mortal shell that held his enemy bound in the surf. If any had the right to be bitter and vengeful, it was the wraith, the little pirate king who had been so free and so bold and bright, who had been chained and broken and forced to become a puppet for a lord of fire and rock. Yet here he had come, taking the fragile Maia and dragging him before another for judgment and destruction.

Oh, he surged into the choppy waters and burst forth again, foaming waters gathering around him eagerly. A dozen punishments, a hundred ideas for torment sprung into his mind – mortal flesh was full of mortal blood, which could be boiled or frozen or pulled from every opening in his body. He could repay his cousin’s ‘gifts’ a dozen times, a hundred times, a thousand times over! Even when Mairon regained his ‘strength’ he would be nothing in the Sea, nothing in the seat of Terror’s power.

But before he could respond, he felt another presence overhead and as Sauron came crashing down nearby, he sent the sea crashing higher up the coast and coiled protectively around the wraith and his guest. He knew that Sauron would be here for only one reason, and he was not about to see his prize stolen from him so swiftly.

“You say you will strike a bargain, yet I have not heard what you expect in return for your generosity. You will free the little pirate and give me a lifetime to watch him suffer – and what, I wonder, do you want in return? This seems too obvious, cousin, are you losing your touch? He is under your protection; you merely want us to rest our case and let you save his miserable, pathetic hide. You will not have him!”

((reblogging for context because the reply got snipped))

It had taken him a while to tie the now mortal Maia up and drag him along but since Mairon had chosen to be bothersome and uncooperative Ji Indur had finally hoisted him over his shoulder and carried him away. Out of Barad Dûr and to the stables. On horseback they left Mordor, undisturbed by anybody as the wraith had made sure to gag his master and set a cloth bag over his head. Now they were making their way towards the place where Ji Indur’s ship was anchored, awaiting their arrival.

ji-indur:

masteroftheseas :

admirable-mairon-moved:

Mairon had exhausted himself rather early on as he tried to fight and didn’t realize how weak a human body is.

He slumped, even dozing off from sheer exhaustion as they traveled on horse-back. Because of this, he didn’t even realize where they were. He could barely hear the waves as his hearing had been muted.

He knew of his cousin’s plight, and it was with fierce restraint that he had stayed in the deeps during Marion’s period of weakness. After the pain and humiliation he had suffered, he did not know if he would be able to resist the temptation to inflict equal devastation on the mortal mockery of the Maia. So he hid himself away for his own safety.

Until he felt the icy shadow that blackened the surface, the familiar swagger of Ji Indur darkened by the power and rage of his ring, and a very familiar essence with him. He may have avoided the battle, but the battle did not avoid him. Hearing his name bellowed, he gave up the resistance – surely he could not be blamed for defending his home, his charge, his realm.

Surging towards the point of conflict, he appeared as a scaled behemoth of his usual self, every bit the Terror his legends warned. His eyes flashed as he circled the floating guests, tail caging them in as he fixed his gaze on the limp offering. “Why do you bring him here? His presence is not welcome in my home,” he rumbled, scowling.

@ji-indur @admirable-mairon

Ji Indur felt Osse’s presence nearing them before he saw the Maia. The water underneath them started to stir and as he looked down into the depths, the bottom so close in the blue green, he notice the massive shape of the Master of the Seas, circling them like a dangerous predator before he broke the surface, causing the Kraken to sway and a wave to wash over man and wraith, almost dragging them under for a moment. The voice reverberated inside Ji Indur’s mind and he bowed his head in a display of respect.

“I am aware of it, oh mighty Osse and I would not have brought Him under normal circumstances. But the Grey Cloaks struck him with the curse of mortality for three days and I could have ended him there and then and freed myself but alas, it was not up to me to be the first to strike. He is one of the Ainur after all and seeing how He has treated you in the last centuries I decided to bring Jim to you so you can hold council and judge him according to the crimes He has committed against you. I hope you do not see any ill will on my part. Whatever you chose to do, I will accept it as His punishment. And I will not lay hand on him myself unless you tell me to do so.”

Ji Indur was serious with his words even if it might feel like betrayal to his friends. But he had to believe in Osse to find a punishment suitable for his cousin and to help the Nine -or those willing to- to break their chains. This was the moment where he offered the watery Maia more than just rum and gold- he was offering him his very existence, as terribly corrupted it was. If the Master of the Seas would turn his back on him as well then he knew that none of the higher beings had even a shred of empathy left for what they had created. Of course it was not meant as a test but it could be very well seen like one.

@admirable-mairon @masteroftheseas @misbehavingmaiar

Suspense built in the tableau between wraith and maia, broken by the sound of distant wing beats, a pulsing thrum that grew into the crack of mighty sails as a shadow passed over the moon.

The sailors who had manned the craft bearing Ji and his captive fled splashing into the waves for safety, and a massive fell beast of raven-black scales and iron plate dropped out of the sky. The ship’s boat splintered under its claws where it landed, folding its wide, dark wings.
As if patiently awaiting instruction, the feel beast watched its master dismount with cold white eyes, sliding off its back saddle to the ground.
The rider approached, removing his flight mask, a tarnished red hammer slung at one hip, a silver-tipped nine-tails on the other.

“Cousin, we beg your pardon for the sudden intrusion,” Sauron addressed Ossë with an inclination of his head. “But it seems you are discussing the fate of one I have already laid claim to. The mortal you have half-submerged there at your feet is currently under my protection.”

He looked from the towering figure in the sea to the corsair kneeling at the water’s edge, and gave half a chuckle. “Ji-Indur. Why am I not surprised by your treachery? I wondered who had managed to smuggle him out from my own fortress… it was a short list of those capable.”

Sauron tucked the black riding mask under one arm and smiled graciously at the wary gathering. “I understand that you both have significant grievances with my brother-self, and while he is in this… delicate, mortal condition, it would be a unique opportunity for you to seek retribution. I respect this. And though I cannot allow you to kill or maul him while under my protection, I am willing to strike a bargain.”

Moonlight glinted off a heavy ring on the hand that stretched out in offering, its twin around Mairon’s finger, limp and drifting in the wave swell. Sauron smiled, and gestured first to Ji.

“Wraith, your allegiance to my brother has long troubled you. If you kill him in this state, it is likely you will remain bound to his Ring and any remnant of his will, or else destroyed outright with his passing… An uncomfortable way to spend eternity, no?” He laughed. “Perhaps you will consider letting me sever the tie between your ring and his. Only I can do this for you, with a power of equal might to the original bond. You would live on, immortal and retaining some small amount of insight beyond the world of men, free of his manipulation, invisible to his eye, even if he returns to power.”

“…And you, Cousin,” Sauron shifted, lowering his gaze briefly in respect, “you of all here have the most claim to vengeance. You wish to see him suffer for his crimes, do you not? A mere moment of satisfaction, even if that moment is a long one, would not suffice.” His eyes glowed in the grave light of the moon, colorless and sharp. “To you I offer a lifetime of his suffering. Miserable, weak, aging into grey hair, sallow skin, and sagging flesh, trembling hands and feeble limbs, powerless to do harm to you or yours ever again.”

The lord of Mordor spread his hands. “Return him to me, and these shall be my gifts to you. Do we have an agreement?”

It had taken him a while to tie the now mortal Maia up and drag him along but since Mairon had chosen to be bothersome and uncooperative Ji Indur had finally hoisted him over his shoulder and carried him away. Out of Barad Dûr and to the stables. On horseback they left Mordor, undisturbed by anybody as the wraith had made sure to gag his master and set a cloth bag over his head. Now they were making their way towards the place where Ji Indur’s ship was anchored, awaiting their arrival.

masteroftheseas:

ji-indur:

admirable-mairon :

admirable-mairon-moved:

Mairon had exhausted himself rather early on as he tried to fight and didn’t realize how weak a human body is.

He slumped, even dozing off from sheer exhaustion as they traveled on horse-back. Because of this, he didn’t even realize where they were. He could barely hear the waves as his hearing had been muted.

The moment they fell into the ocean, Mairon stopped listening. He couldn’t – his terror deafened everything out.

He panicked, unable to even scream as he became white as a sheet. Ji’s freezing aura didn’t help as Mairon tried to weakly claw his way out of Ji’s grasp….

He was dunked in water.

And he was out. Limp as a corpse.

@masteroftheseas ( @ji-indur )

Even if he had expected a fearful reaction, this was overwhelming him with its sheer magnitude. To have the Maia suddenly unresponsive and limp in his arms made Ji Indur pause and refrain from dunking him any further. In the meantime the corsair who had been tossed into the ocean as well had joined him while the stabbed one had been helped on board where he had been bandaged with the hope he might recover.

What should he do now? Ji Indur was uncertain. To bring Mairon on board of his ship after he had wounded one of his men seemed like an unwise decision though they would not harm him against their captain’s wish. But to remain in the cold water with a man who was more corpse than living being…? With Osse nowhere to be seen, Ji Indur had to make a decision and he had to make it fast.

@admirable-mairon @masteroftheseas

He knew of his cousin’s plight, and it was with fierce restraint that he had stayed in the deeps during Marion’s period of weakness. After the pain and humiliation he had suffered, he did not know if he would be able to resist the temptation to inflict equal devastation on the mortal mockery of the Maia. So he hid himself away for his own safety.

Until he felt the icy shadow that blackened the surface, the familiar swagger of Ji Indur darkened by the power and rage of his ring, and a very familiar essence with him. He may have avoided the battle, but the battle did not avoid him. Hearing his name bellowed, he gave up the resistance – surely he could not be blamed for defending his home, his charge, his realm.

Surging towards the point of conflict, he appeared as a scaled behemoth of his usual self, every bit the Terror his legends warned. His eyes flashed as he circled the floating guests, tail caging them in as he fixed his gaze on the limp offering. “Why do you bring him here? His presence is not welcome in my home,” he rumbled, scowling.

@ji-indur @admirable-mairon