The Lost Kingdom

Chapter 1: The Arrival of the Warrior Maiden

As the sun began to set, a lone figure could be seen making her way towards the gates of Helm's Deep. She was a tall, regal-looking woman with skin as dark as the night sky. Her hair was a wild mass of tight curls that framed her face, and her eyes sparkled with a fierce determination. She was dressed in a suit of armor that seemed to have been crafted specifically for her.

As she approached the gates, the guards eyed her warily. They had never seen anyone quite like her before, and they were unsure whether to let her in. But the woman simply raised her chin and stated her business.

"I am Aria, daughter of Arinna," she said. "I have come to aid in the fight against the orcs."

The guards exchanged a look, then nodded and opened the gates. Aria strode through, her head held high. She made her way to the main courtyard, where she saw a number of people gathered around a small fire.

One of them caught her eye immediately. He was tall and lean, with golden hair and piercing blue eyes. He wore a suit of elven armor, and he held himself with a grace and poise that was almost otherworldly.

This, she knew, was Legolas, the prince of Mirkwood.

Aria felt a thrill run through her as she approached him. She had heard stories of Legolas and his bravery in battle, and she had always admired him from afar. But now, she was face-to-face with him, and she could feel her heart racing.

"Legolas," she said, bowing her head respectfully.

"Who are you?" he asked, his voice cool and measured.

"I am Aria, daughter of Arinna," she repeated. "I have come to aid in the fight against the orcs."

Legolas regarded her for a moment, then nodded. "Very well," he said. "But I must warn you, this will not be an easy fight. The orcs are fierce and cunning, and they will stop at nothing to destroy us."

"I am not afraid," Aria replied, her voice steady. "I have fought many battles before, and I will fight many more. I will not rest until the orcs are defeated."

Legolas looked at her, then nodded again. "Very well," he said. "Welcome to Helm's Deep, Aria. We are glad to have you with us."