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maeghin
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: November 24, 2003 08:04
Faramond watched Ivor with Saida. He smiled at first, recognizing the smile of affection on Ivor’s face, then his smile turned to a frown as another man, whom Fara had not yet been introduced, interrupted the meeting and whisked the elleth away. As Ivor returned, Fara studied the expression on his face, placing it as one of both anger and frustration. Fara sympathized with his new friend as he remembered the hurt which Marissa had caused him only a short while ago.

He followed Súlfalas and Ivor to the courtyard and handed Ivor a pint as he took one up himself. “To brotherhood!” Súlfalas cheered, and as if by instinct, Fara raised his glass and echoed the call.

Fara had been surprised by Ivor. This was one elf that was openly giving and trusting. For that, Fara was glad. The call of brotherhood had opened a new wound in Fara’s heart. There were so many of his kin whom he had shared a similar toast. Had things changed so much? Fara shook the thoughts of the past from his mind and turned to Ivor, resting a hand on his shoulder.

“I thank you for what you did back there with the King, mellon nin.” Fara’s voice reverberated with gratitude and softness. Here he had found a friend, both loyal and true whom he could trust. Fara bowed his head slightly, yet did not break eye contact with Ivor. “My sword and bow are forever at your disposal, gon Ivorcheneb.”

Ivor smiled widely. “That is not necessary; however it will be good to have one of your skills at my side in battle.” Ivor reached his hand out to Fara’s shoulder and Fara followed in the like. The two nodded an unspoken understanding.

Súlfalas cleared his throat slightly. Fara turned his attention to him as well. “And the same goes to you, mellon nin.” Súlfalas nodded in understanding.

“So, gon Faramond, you have not yet told me the details of what made you leave.” Ivor stated in a questioning voice. Fara stared back, as a prey would when it has been overtaken. He reached down and grasped the handle of another mug of ale and began to swirl the liquid within.

“There is not much to tell.” Fara stated haphazardly. “I fear for my people. The fight Oropher would propose alone would be leading my men into certain slaughter.” He looked up at Ivor with a pained expression. “I could not do it. I could not lead those who I hold dear, those who trusted me so, to their certain deaths. They would have followed me into the very mouth of doom if that be where I led them. I did not leave on my own account though.” He paused, thinking back on the conversation with the King, however brief it was. “I stated my opinion in hopes that Oropher would come to his senses and forge an alliance with Gil-Galad. And for that, I was banished.” A darkness shrouded Fara’s face. “The King listens to his advisers who know not of the ways of War. I fear for my people.”

Fara shook his head then gulped down the mug of ale, feeling it burn in his belly. That would have sufficed as an explanation, however, Fara continued, whether from the ale or the relief it gave him to speak his fears aloud. “I had a betrothed in Greenwood, Marissa. An elleth as fair as any I have seen. I loved her so, and yet I fear she loved my status more than she loved me. She spurned me when she found out. Her feelings for me were a ruse, a terrible, wonderful ruse.”

Fara looked up to see that both Ivor and Súlfalas sat just staring at him. Fara realized he had said too much. They did not need to know his whole life’s story and he should not have told them, yet he did so anyway. Súlfalas nodded slowly to Fara as if understanding his pain, Ivor sighed and playfully smote Fara on the back.

“Elleth are troublesome things.” He reiterated.
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[Edited on 11/24/2003 by Tasar_Took_Nualda]
moonletters
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: November 25, 2003 12:48
"...and then my father was called to the kings meeting." At this, her partner puffed his chest proudly, and continued the tedious task of telling her all about himself and how important his father was to the crown. "After all, my father is one of the kings top advisers." Could this man get any more conceited? She had never known anyone to have as big a head as this young man. She sighed, trying to live out the rest of the night, throwing in a murmur of agreement or a slight nod to let him think she was still listening. Suddenly, she was snapped out of her thoughts by a hand reaching towards her.

"Excuse me, sir! May I, my Lady...?" She nodded frantically, muttering a quick apology to her former partner and grabbed the man's hand, replying, "But of course!"

As he swept her out onto the dance floor, she couldn't help but wonder why he was doing this. She was grateful, of course, but was it another assignment? Looking at him closely, it seemed to dawn on her that she had seen this man before. She realized now that he was one of the Numenoreon men that had come to join them in battling Sauron, but she couldn't place his face. Sighing, she resigned herself to finding out tomorrow for she did not wish to dwell on what was to come. He winked at her playfully before saying, "I thought you needed to escape for a minute."

Cirya just stared at him in amazement. She hadn't known humans where so perceptive, then again maybe she hadn't been hiding it very well. She was grateful nonetheless, and replied with a dazzling smile and a quiet, "Thank you."

"I must warn you, dear Lady, that I haven't been dancing for years, and might mix something..."she laughed a little at his remark as the music started, and they moved out onto the floor. She realized then, that she too was probably not the best either. "Oh, that's nothing! It happens to me time after time. I'm not a skilled dancer myself," she said sheepishly as she bowed low and the dance began.

"Well, that makes me feel a lot better," she heard him say with amusement before taking her hand and the lead. Cirya contemplated what would happen tomorrow, how it would feel to really leave the only home she had ever really know, and why she was even leaving in the first place. She hadn't wanted to dwell on these things, but they came unbidden to her mind and she humored them in the silence of the dance.

"Are you angry at me, fair lady?" Startled, she almost failed to complete the steps as she switched sides with him. "Why?" she replied curiously. "No. Not at all. Why do you assume I am, Hîr nin?" But at that inopportune moment in the dance, she was forced to twirl into another's arms before receiving her reply. As she made her way back and finally reached him, he explained himself saying, "Well, I rushed in, interfering your conversation, grabbed you and took you to dance not even asking you if you wanted to dance at all, and the young man you were talking to must feel quite offended..." he broke off as her walked the steps of the dance, but continued as he returned.

"I thought I saw you wanting to escape his protective hands at least only for a while. My apologies if I have been mistaken. So, I decided to ask you for a dance. I was being a little selfish, I must confess, wanting to improve my skills as a dancer..." Cirya smiled, trying not to laugh at his serious expression when there was such a playful lilt to his voice. "I want to assure you - I'm not going to propose you, although I might, if that helped you escaping unwanted attention..." and with that he sighed, but his eyes sparkled at her mischievously and she had to laugh. It was a funny idea, but she entirely doubted it.

"I doubt that!" shaking her head as she voiced her earlier thought. "You do?" he said, crinkling his eyebrows playfully. "You know, I doubt that, too!" he said and grinned. "But it is not impossible. Only a very good reason for that would be needed." Cirya laughed again and he smiled warmly back at her. "Well, I suppose I have reached my goal, now that I see you laughing." Leaning closer to her, he continued, "If you wish to escape him further, too, just tell me, and I will escort you to the table. There you could spend some time choosing a special delicacy, or I could ask you to another dance. I'm at your service, my Lady," he bowed gracefully.

Responding immediately, as she feared to go back to the dull young man, she said, "I believe I will go for the second option, Hîr nin. After all, this is the last time in many weeks I will get the chance to dance." She laughed again, pulling him out onto the dance floor, missing his confused expression.
~*~
After dancing for a few more hours and talking about nothing and nonsense, the night ended. Far too soon by Cirya's account,as she had only discovered the charming man later into the night, and wished he had found her earlier. But is was late, and she knew that he probably had a last minute meeting to attend. King Gil-Galad always seemed to have something last minute, to make sure everything was perfect. She couldn't blame him as she would probably have done the same thing. But, all in all, she was tired and they would be leaving much too soon. Bowing out of the last dance, she turned to him.

"I thank you, for I've had a wonderful evening. Or, what was left of it after you came along," she said, glancing at the young man sleeping in his chair. "I never learned your name, however, and I would be pleased to know the name of my rescuer." Her eyes twinkled and he laughed. "Of course my lady. But in return, I should also know yours?" She laughed at this in return and nodded wholeheartedly.

"Very well then, my name is Ohtar." and he bowed low, sweeping his hand under is stomach respectfully. Playing along, she replied curtsying low, "And mine is Calacirya. You may call me Cirya, however, if you wish." Straightening herself, she said her goodbyes and goodnight and swept over to the young man that she had ruthlessly abandoned. She laughed at this thought, and shook him gently, trying to wake him without startling him too much. He awoke, and bolted upright, relaxing when he realized it was her. Or her double. He wasn't sure.

Cirya helped him stand, and they took a step, him swaggering almost to a fall. She caught him under the other arm, and proceeded to lead him out into the hall where no one would see him. She realized that he had had even more wine than before. And before she was certain that he was almost in favor of passing out. Calling servant to help her, they both quietly took him to his chamber, her leaving before entering as the servant had dutifully reminded her that it was not proper. Sighing, she made her way to her own room, all the while thinking about Ohtar and what a wonderful...dancer he was. Giggling softly into her hand, she enter her chamber and readied herself for bed.

(Sorry that this is so long, I wrote quite a bit...maybe too much! But I hope it makes up for my lack of keeping up with the rest of you!)


[Edited on 2/03/2000 by moonletters]
Rudhwethiel
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: November 25, 2003 07:00
In my hands
A legacy of memories
I can hear you say my name
I can almost see your smile
Feel the warmth of your embrace
But there is nothing but silence now
Around the one I loved
Is this our farewell?

~ from "Our Farewell" by Within Temptation




The eternal walk ended, Saida stood facing Ivorcheneb. She wondered if he could see all that she felt. She wondered if he knew that she felt as if she were dying within, any hope of a better life gone the isntant she saw him with the other elleth. He did not speak for long moments; she could not read the look in his eyes as she so often could. Another ellon suddenly spoke; until then she had not even noticed him standing just behind Ivor.
"Dû vaer, Hiril nín!”
Saida turned her face to the ellon, taking in his dark hair and grey eyes like her own. A moriquendi . . . and his voice: the slightly rough, clipped speech told her that he was from the North, same as she.

But then Ivor spoke, and she instantly forgot the dark one.
“Ai!….Y-yes…Dû vaer….I had so hoped to see you here this night.”
He was laughing, as he usually seemed to be. But this time- was he laughing at her? She was not wearing his pendant, she was glad for that. He spoke again, no doubt out of duty:
“Saida,” he finally began, “…Would you like to—"
but before he could finish whatever he was about to say, Pallando appeared at her side again. His strong arm went around her slender waist, pulling her to his side with a possessiveness that was strong even for him.
“Come, Muinen! Let us dance again!” he said to her, emphasizing the last word. Saida turned into his embrace and gazed up at him, a tender smile upon her full lips. “I would love to!” she replied. She looked at Ivor and smiled, all too sweetly. “Please, excuse me, my Lord. It was nice to see you here.” Then she let the curunír lead her out into the dance.


Pallando held her tightly, once again using the strength of his body and his power to draw her to him. But though her feet followed wherever he led in the dance, though she knew she would go now wherever he led, it was all hollow. He was but another way to give away more of herself until at last there would be nothing left; and then in some dark wind-touched place, beneath a starless winter sky, she could rest. She dropped her head to his strong shoulder that he might not see her eyes, and know the truth.

* * * * * * * * *

The night was wearing on, and the wine was still flowing freely. That Ivorcheneb had had more than his share was evident in the fact that he had actually allowed Súlfalas to talk him into letting Súl pierce his ears, in the style of northern warriors. They were near one of the nearly deserted bonfires, with Ivor sitting so that Súl could better reach his ears. Súl had charmed a servant girl into lending him the necessary implements, and with a slightly tipsy Faramond providing moral support, carried out the task neatly and with a measure of grim enjoyment. Ivor swore most ungentlemanly when Súl rammed the needle through the sensitive upper ridge of Ivor's ear. Súlfalas raised an eyebrow and chuckled in amusement. "Now there's a word I'm betting you wouldn't say without quite a bit of drink in you."

Ivor just glared at him as the dark ellon slipped a silver ring into the hole and fastened it with deft fingers. "There, old man, we'll have you looking like a proper barbarian in no time." Ivor rolled his eyes. "Great. Just what I was going for. Saida won't be able to keep her hands off of me now." Súl and Fara exchanged a knowing look over Ivor's head, and as one they reached to pull their captain to his feet. "Bedtime, old man," Súl said in a tone that boded no argument.

When Súl and Fara had at lost gotten Ivor settled in, they left his rooms just in time to see Saida and the istari walking together down one of the corridors. They were heading away from the gala. Súlfalas and Farmond felt a pang of sympathy for their friend, and were glad they had gotten him to his room before he could see the two together again. Something about her made Súlfalas extremely tense and uneasy. He could not put his finger on it . . . just something in her eyes. She was obviously from his homeland, but she was unlike those in the village where he had lived. He remembered rumors of a barren town far in the wilds; of the mystics who lived their and of their dealings with dark arts. But he shrugged such thoughts off. No way one of them, if they even existed, would be a guest in the palace of the high king.

* * * * * * * * *

Dawn came all too early for almost all concerned. Ivor's band of warriors gathered in the great hall before the rest of the kingdom stirred. Ivorcheneb was suffering a horrific headache as a result of the previous night's wine comsumption. Súlfalas and Faevathor and Faramond were all there, all looking stern and ready for battle. The sight of them cheered him somewhat. At least he wasn't alone in this.
Faenauliel
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: November 25, 2003 08:01
Ivor had been roused by a servant in the darkness. “The time for the meeting is at hand, My Lord!…Gil-galad bids you and your company meet in the Great Hall!” As he sat up, his head reeled and his stomach lurched. Ai! Never will I drink wine again! he thought. As soon as the thought crossed his mind, he remembered the reason he had lost control. An image of Saida in Pallando’s arms flooded his mind and he stood quickly, ran to the basin and lost all that was left in his stomach.

At least now, he told himself, she will stay here…in safety…With him. The tears threatened again and he closed his eyes tightly against them. Yes, at least she will be safe!

He stood, leaning heavily upon the cabinet and splashed his face with cool water from the pitcher. In doing this he bumped one of his ears and howled in pain. Moving quickly to the mirror, first his eyes opened wide in disbelief—then closed in realization of what must have happened. “Súlfalas!” he said under his breath. He surveyed the new metal rings hanging from his ears and cocked his head to one side. Not so bad! he smiled.

He cleaned himself up and threw his heavy cloak about his shoulders. Then, strapping on his sword, he picked up the small pack of personal belongings he would take with him. He stood and took one last look about the apartment that had been his for so long. With no expression upon his fair features, he left and closed the heavy door behind him.

He made his way to the meeting in the Great Hall and was, indeed, happy to see Súlfalas and Faramond waiting for him. “What is this?!” he asked Súl as he pointed to one of his ears. Both of his companions laughed heartily as Ivor shook his head. Then Gil-galad entered with Hîr Elrond and King Elendil. All who were gathered there went silent.

“You have been summoned here because you are known for your skill in battle and your loyalty to your King…Or Kings as it were.” Gil-galad motioned toward Elendil. “You are to be our scouts. You will ride a half-day ahead of our troops and send to us information and see to it that the way is passable for the rest of us. It is a difficult thing that I ask of you…But you have all proven yourselves worthy of the challenge. Gon Ivorcheneb,” he held out his arm and motioned for Ivor to step to the front of the room. As Ivor did so, he saw a look of disgust and disdain in the eyes of the Númenorean Captain, and inwardly the ellon smiled. “Ivorcheneb” Gil-galad continued, “has been a trusted friend and much like a younger brother to me. I send him to lead you for I know that he will lead you well. Trust in him…as I do…And we shall all meet again.”

He turned to face Ivor then, a solemn sadness in his eyes as his voice lowered. “No daring feats now, Ivor…I trust in you…I know you shall lead them well. And, remember, we are right behind you!” Ivor nodded. “I shall not fail you, my Liege.”

******************************
As Ivor mounted Celeg he looked up at the night sky, dawn was still far away. He knew that at mid-day all the city would line the streets to see the King lead the warriors out of Mithlond’s gates. But for his men, secrecy and stealth was a necessity. He turned and surveyed the small company gathered behind him and sighed softly. “Expecting someone to see you off?” Súl’s soft voice came from his right, full of sympathy. “No,” Ivor stated flatly. She is safe in the wizard’s arms, his cruel inner voice taunted.

He turned and readied to give the order to move out…when a door opened and a cloaked figure moved silently through it. Saida was dressed in her traveling clothes, just as she had been the first moment he had seen her. His heart both soared above the stars and sank in his chest.

He forced himself to look forward, his face stony and expressionless, as she mounted her horse near the rear of the column. “Herio!” he gave the command, trying hard not to let his voice tremble.

As they started out, the eastern sky grew lighter. They rode to defeat an enemy…and to face their fate.

[Edited on 26/11/2003 by Faenauliel]
Nifredil
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: November 26, 2003 02:09
Time swept past fast, and the night ended, far too soon, as it seemed to Ohtar. After saying his goodbyes to the elleth he couldn't help to watch her leaving, and marveled deeply. She found time to worry about the young man, to rouse him and to see him to his chamber. And this was taking into account his annoying behavior and her obvious wish to get rid of him before... Ohtar wached her as she got the man out of the hall with the assistance of a servant. Truly amazing!

Then a thought occured to him. Was there something else he hadn't noticed? He saw Vanrick entering the hall and looking around as if looking for someone.

"Vanrick!" he caleed, and the older man's face turned to him. No emotion showed on it.

"I was wondering about the time the council was to be called, sir. The gala is almost over, as it seems."

Ohtar nodded.

"You're right. Let's go to the final meeting." He didn't ask whether Vanrick had informed the med about the hour of the leave, he knew he had.

On his way to King Gil-Galad's council-room Ohtar thought about his night, how strange and surprising it had been. First his meeting with Fae, then this Cal... Cirya, he corrected himself. He liked the sound of her name. So... bright, transperent, he would say. And she seemed to be filled with light. It somehow seemed to be trapped under her skin, so strange. Ohtar couldn't get to understand this girl. There was something more about her than she had revealed tonight. He smiled to himself. A mystery she was.

Vanrick threw quick glances at his Captain while walking beside him. The smile wasn't Ohtar's usual michievous one. But it wasn't his business to question his Captain. So the man just kept walking.

As they arrived, there were already several elves in the room. Ohtar and Vanrick were the only Men. Ohtar threw a quick glance around. Fae wasn't there. They took their seats and started waiting.

After a quarter of an hour Ohtar was getting nervous. He wasn't used to waiting, and now his mood was getting darker. Why did it take so long?! Were they drunk or what?

Finally he saw Ivorcheneb in the doorway. Ohtar stared at him in disbelief. Earrings?! He almost dropped a juicy comment when he remembered that it was Vanrick at his side, not Isildur. He almost wished the Prince were there. Ohtar couldn't take his eyes off the elf, his face taking ever more grim expression. What in the Middle Earth was wrong with that elf?! No, this was indeed getting better and better. All he missed now was a woman in the team!

Both Kings entered, and the conversations died down. Ohtar listened attentively to Gil-Galad's words. So, they were to make the path for the others nice and flat. OK, so be it. If the King(s) wish so... Ohtar was qiute comfortable with it. He watched Gil-Galad calling Ivorcheneb in front. Right! he smirked, much like a younger brother, no way! So that's what was behind it!

Finally the meeting was over, and he rose jawning. He had only a few hours until the departure.

"Captain Ohtar!" he heard his name and turned to face both Kings.

"I've heard a lot about you, and all the best. I am glad that you will be the one leading our brethren Numenorians shoulder to shoulder with our small team. They will need you by their side," King Gil-Galad extended his hand, and Ohtar squeezed it, slightly confused. There was such a deep wisdom in the elven-king's eyes. He bowed his head.

"I am honored, sire." He bowed again, to King Elendil, and then took his leave. There was no time to sleep left.

**************************************
Shortly before the dawn Ohtar left his room, clad in his warrior clothes, his cape o his shoulders, his sword at his belt, and his other belongings in a pack on his back. He met his men at the stable, and their horses already saddled. Ohtar greeted each of the men separately, then quickly checked the horses. All was well, they were ready to war.

"Good! We are to leave now and meet the elves at the gate. As we have the assignment to be the scouts of the rest of the army, I expect you to show as much caution as possible. And, as are now allies with the elves, consider them as such!" It would be perfect if I could be able to folow my own advice! At least I hope I will...

The men bowed their heads, then they mounted their steeds. The animals were well-fed and eager for a long ride, the men even had to hold them back. As they approached the gate, Ohtar saw the group of the elves approaching. His gaze found Ivorcheneb leading the company, then it met with Fae's dark one. A smile slightly touched Ohtar's lips, as the memory of the incident in the garden last night came back to him. It had been a funny night! There were also the two other elves he had met, and behind them... He narrowed his eyes. He couldn't be seeing what he saw! The man barely held an angry exclamation back, remembering in time that he had his men following him.

"Captain Ivorcheneb! May I have you for a word?" his voice was trembling slightly with anger.

As they moved aside, Ohtar turned to the elf, his eyes ablaze:

"What is the meaning of this? Women in a warfield? Or, even better, in an extremely difficult scout mission? War is not the place for women! We can't be watching over them!"

Ivorcheneb met his gaze, but it wasn't as straight as usually.

"King Gil-Galad considered them skilled and trusted enough to command them to this mission. I doubt you will be the one questioning the King's wish. And you don't need to worry about the need to watch over them," he added, pride appearing in his expression, "they can take good care of themselves. I don't mean cooking by that."

"I'm sure they can take care of themselves! But they're women!" Ohtar quietened his voice that dreaded to rise to a yell. Women were to be protected and kept safe from all the dangers in the world! Women were to preserve the life and the beauty, not to bring death on the battlefield!

"These women among many men - it can lead to conflicts in the group, when all we need is a perfect team! It will be hard enough to avoid friction already, it will be twice as difficult with women around! What if they can't keep up with the hardships we are going to face? Who is going to care about them in a minute when every man, every weapon will be needed?"

"I will. They're a part of my team, and I have the responsibility," Ivor answered.

The very moment Ohtar met the gaze of one of them. Cirya?! His eyes widened with surprise and he felt his belly jump. This he had least expected. His eyes went back to Ivor.

"Allright then, they are coming with us, under your responsibility. But I insist on sending them back if any problem with their presence in the group arouses," he stared at the elf closely.

Seconds were passing...

"Agreed." With that Ivor turned his horse and headed back. Ohtar followed a moment later, still deep in thoughts. He really hoped he had done the right thing by letting the women ride along.

The group passed the gate and took up a quick pace. It wasn't long before the Palace disappeared from the sight.

[Edited on 26/11/2003 by Nifredil]
We still remember, we who dwell In this far land, beneath the trees The starlight on the Western seas...
In the Realm of Ulmo
gwendeth
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: November 26, 2003 02:56
Faevathor was ready and waiting as the Elves and Men assembled under the dark sky, his keen eyes taking note of everything. As he surveyed them, his eyes briefly met Ohtar's. He nodded, but didn't speak - although - there was a short glance of amusement as both remembered their unexpected dousing. He nodded to Ivor and Súl as well, but again, said nothing. There was - for him - nothing to say - nothing that needed to be said.

Fae's eyes did widen a bit when he saw the rings in Ivor's ears, and he shook his head to himself. Perhaps...perhaps he should have made an appearance last night. Ivor obviously had had too much to drink for him to allow Súl to do such a thing - and - Fae would have enjoyed watching it. Although, he shuddered to himself at the thought of it as well.

Fae listened to Ohtar and Ivor discussing the ellith who had joined them. His face was impassive, though. He knew that if ellith were with them with Ivor's knowlege, that they were well-skilled and would not hinder their purpose. Fae trusted Ivorcheneb's leadership implicitly.

There was a new Ellon in their midst, someone Fae didn't recognize, but this was no time for pleasantries. Whoever he was, he did look like a well-experienced warrior.

Fae vaulted to Mithfaer's back and gazed at the stars. Shining clearly overhead was the Sky-Warrior - Menelvagor. Fae smiled mirthlessly. A good omen perhaps?

"Herio!" Fae returned his attention to Ivor as he heard the command to move out, and urged Mithfaer forward. The horse's grey coat matched the grey dawn that began creeping across the sky - and - it matched the greyness in Faevathor's soul.

[Edited on 26/11/2003 by gwendeth]
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[Edited on 11/26/2003 by Tasar_Took_Nualda]
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
Rudhwethiel
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: November 26, 2003 02:03
If only night can hold you
Where I can see you, my love
Then let me never ever wake again
And maybe tonight,
We'll fly so far away
We'll be lost before the dawn

~ "Before The Dawn"
by Evanescence

The hours were those coldest, darkest few that give birth to the new dawn when Saida awoke. She lay still, listening to the silence broken only by the breathing of the istari who lay next to her. Nothing had happened between them, she knew that for certain. But had he not been so full of wine; had not Gelladar cried for her touch as soon as he left the nursemaid's arms . . . Saida closed her eyes in relief. Carefully she raised herself up on one elbow and looked upon the face of the istari as he lay in a deep sleep. He was so beautiful, with the lines of sorrow and bitterness erased by the kind hand of slumber. She could not help but remember other days, when her beloved sister was living and Saida had had to bear her love for the istari in secret. Now Jehan had lain in the earth for nearly a year, and what could be Saida's for the taking no longer fulfilled. He had never loved her, she knew that. Her sister had been the flame that had ravished his heart, and when she died he was stripped bare of all that meant anything to him.

Just then Pallando woke and opened his eyes to see her watching him. Sea storms and winter night skies met and held. "You are going then?" He asked quietly, his voice still thick with sleep. She nodded, not knowing what to say to him. "You would leave me, too?" The despair in his voice tore her heart; for he was all that remained of brighter days. A single tear traced down her cheek as she brushed a lock of dark hair from his forehead. "I left a long time ago, Pallando. Long before Jehan." He sat up and took her in his arms. For long moments he clung to her, crushing her slender form against him, both their tears flowing freely now. At last he released her and turned his face away. "Go. What grace I have left I send with you . . . and I am glad to have known you." Saida wiped her face and turned to go, stopping at Gelladar's cradle to memorize the child's face one last time. She knew she would never see either of them again.

Even at that hour of morning, many were stirring. Not wishing to be seen in her crumpled dress, leaving the chambers of the istari, she stole stealthily through the halls until she came to her own rooms. Caun was there waiting for her, already dressed and ready to travel. He saw the signs of tears in her eyes, knew from whence she had came; but made made no sign. He knew she would want it that way. "You are just in time," he said. "The meeting with the king and the copmany has passed, but you have time to prepare and go with us if you hurry." Saida looked at him in surprise. "You are going?" He shrugged carelessly. "May as well meet my end there are anywhere else." She nodded her head once, slowly. She felt the same. And she wished it to come quickly.

Caun left, and she quickly stripped off the beautiful grey dress. It would be leftbehind, of course. There would be no need for beautiful things where they were going. Her old travelling pack that she had carried when she had come to the palace was still with her. From it she took the black robes that had formerly been her customary dress. She had worn them the day she and Ivor first met. A sardonic smile flitted across her face. No matter what changes, we always return to where we were before. Taking a curved knife from her pack, she held it up so that the blade glittered even in the darkness. Something made her conceal it within her robes, instead of wearing it on the outside. Her riotous black hair was left free to curl around her face and hang down her back. Taking up her pack, she left the room without a backward glance.

Caun waited outside near the rear of the company, astride his horse and holding hers by the reins. She took the reins from him and mounted. Unlike other battles, she had no thought of glory or victory or domination. She simply rode, because she had no other road to take. A cry came from the front, Ivorcheneb's voice strong and terrible: “Herio!”
moonletters
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: November 29, 2003 05:38
A sad smile flickered across Cirya's lips as Ohtar's eyes met hers.
Foolish man, did he underestimate the keen Elvish hearing so much as to speak so loud? She was sure that everyone around her could hear it, and some of them in the front, mostly of men, gave her sidelong glances. She only ignored them, and focused on the two discussing her, and the other ellith's, fate in this war. But who where they to decide my fate? she thought angrily.

She was a woman, aye, but why did that make her any less able than a man. Fate was fickle, she had always known that. She gives you a moment of peace, even happiness, from the cruel world of reality, only to tear it away on a whim. And it makes you wish for her husband, Death, to come and claim you instead. To end what Fate started, and find final peace in Death. And maybe it shall come to that, she mused, maybe we shall find Death on that battle field and be released from the lingering shreds of hope and love left that have weaved themselves into the tapestry of Life. And when Destiny's threads snap, and we are finally free, will we feel again? A never ending tumult of trying find freedom in Death; but the paradox of still wanting to feel as in Life.

Cirya shook her head, morbid thoughts would never do, not where they where headed.

Besides, she told herself, she was as good as any man or ellon alike. She did not want to, but she knew that she would have to prove herself to these men. She wished that Ohtar could ahve seen how strong willed she was last night, it would not have ruined his fun in the least, she was sure. It would have saved time now, though. Sighing, she resigned herself to a rough ride-and not only in terms of terrain.

Hearing Ivorcheneb's cry of "Herio!" she laughed a bit to herself at the confusion of the Numenorian men who did not understand the Elvish command. As soon as the rest of them started off though, they got the idea, and everyone began to move out, readying themselves to see what Fate and Destiny had in store for them; while the brothers Life and Death looked on, waiting for the moment in which they would play the deciding factor in someone's end...or beginning.

[Edited on 2/03/2000 by moonletters]
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: November 29, 2003 07:19
As the small band moved out, Faevathor found himelf slightly amused. Whether it was because he had not taken Mithfaer out for exercise for several days, or the horse sensed the tension in the men and elves, or Fae's own inner turmoil, he didn't know. But whatever it was, the Stallion was restless, and kept trying to break out of the steady pace that Ivorcheneb had set. Fae, however, knew his horse far too well, and every time he shied, the Elf regained his control easily.

He did, however, find himself riding side-by-side with Ohtar when Mithfaer suddenly sashayed at another imagined shadow in his path. Fae noticed a dark look from the Numenorean turn into respect as he watched the Ellon expertly calm his mount again. "Sîdh, mellon nín, sîdh,*" he whispered, stroking the horse's silky neck.

Whether the Stallion had finally shaken his fidgets or Fae's quiet voice had done it's job didn't matter as Mithfaer at last seemed to settle down. However, his expertise in calming Mithfaer became evident again as a sudden gust of wind brought a flight of leaves across their path. Mithfaer wasn't the only horse that danced from surprise when that happened, but he was the first brought back under control.

"You have a fine horse." Fae turned to regard Ohtar when he heard the man's quiet voice, and replied, "Thank you. I bred him myself." Ohtar looked surprised. "You bred him? You breed horses?" The Elf nodded. "I did - once. Before..." He fell silent for a moment and then continued. Fae's voice was quiet, but also held a tinge of pride. "Mithfaer is the best I have ever bred." He keenly looked at Ohtar's mount. Nodding at the horse, Fae said, "You have a fine horse yourself." Ohtar raised his eyebrows at the Elf's comment, and seemed pleased by it.

Fae did know horses well. His only regret was that they did not have an Elvish life-span. He would truly miss this horse when...and darkness again entered the ellon's heart as he thought again of one Elf who was no longer alive.

Faevathor fell silent then, as he tried to maintain his tenuous hold on the emotions that had no place showing themselves on this mission. Spurring Mithfaer into a slightly faster pace, Fae moved forward until he was riding alongside Súlfalas. Nodding briefly at his friend, Fae kept his eyes on Ivor's back as the band continued along their way.

(*Peace, my friend, peace.)


[Edited on 29/11/2003 by gwendeth]
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[Edited on 11/29/2003 by Tasar_Took_Nualda]
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
Nifredil
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 01, 2003 06:50
Ohtar couldn't keep his mind from the forestanding quest. He wished he didn't have to follow the elves. He wished he could lead his own men just as before, as he chose. He didn't know the elves' way of travelling, scouting, fighting or excercising, but he was almost sure it differed. If only...!

His eyes were drawn to the fine stallion Fae was riding. It seemed restless, but the elf always managed to calm the animal down.

Cirya was wearing a completely differnt garment now, it seemed to fit her better. Although Ohtar would love to see her again in that lovely dress of hers. The other elleth was a striking beauty. Her raven hair was flowing in the wind, thick and shiny. This woman would cause him problems. Ay, she would...

Again he glanced at Fae. His steed was indeed a remarkable one. And the elf definitely had every skill of an excellent rider. When a gust of wind whirled brown leaves under the horses' legs startling them, Fae calmed his steed first, which was a lot better than Ohtar's own skill.

"You have a fine horse," he had to admit. If it wouldn't be Fae, Ohtar wouldn't have probably said that loud.

The elf glanced at him.

"Thank you. I bred him myself."

That was surprising, but explained a lot. Still, Ohtar couldn't keep the question back:

"You bred him? You breed horses?" The Elf nodded. "I did - once. Before..." He fell silent for a moment and then continued. Fae's voice was quiet, but also held a tinge of pride. "Mithfaer is the best I have ever bred."

Ohtar looked with new eyes at Fae's horse, Mithfaer. He must hold him very dear. Everybody who has ever bred a horse develops a special attachment to him.

"You have a fine horse yourself." Ohtar raised his eyebrows at the Elf's comment. He knew his horse wasn't nearly as good as Mithfaer that seemed well trained, but still, a compliment was pleasing. Maybe he shpuld have bred one himself, too, instead of choosing him from Isildur's stables. But then, he never had time for that. Or patience.

Ohtar watched Fae urging his horse to catch up with a friend of his. Why did he have there friendly feelings towards this one elf, while the others seemed so strange. He had noticed their glances at his men who hadn't understood the command Ivorcheneb gave. There were some in his group, three or four, that had not come from Numenor with him, but had lived in the Middle Earth all their life. And as they were convinced, a warrior was not learned in lore or in languages. They hadn't had the chance to get to know that Ohtar himself was, and that he knew a lot more than a simple warrior must.

Ohtar sighed. He felt himself getting restless. As usually when there was too much to think about and too little to do. He wished the border with the lands of the Enemy to get closer sooner. He needed to stretch out.
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[Edited on 12/1/2003 by Tasar_Took_Nualda]
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In the Realm of Ulmo
Rudhwethiel
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 01, 2003 06:11
The early morning air was cool; and a dense fog still lingered. Like a band of wraith-riders Ivorcheneb's company pressed through it in the growing light of dawn, the shreds of mist clinging to them like tattered garments. To what foe, they knew little; to what end, they knew nothing.

Súlfalas rode silently near the head of the column, feeling more at home in the saddle than he had in the luxury of the palace. Caden sensed the coming battle, it seemed. The huge black horse arched his neck and pulled at the bit, held at bay only by Súlfalas' strong hands on the reins. The familiar sound of creaking leather and the metallic scrape of armor ignited a fire in both of them, the ellon and the stallion.

But this is no ordinary battle . . . Súlfalas thought to himself, his mouth hardening. This is going to be a war, the like none of us have ever known. Dark days behind me, and dark days ahead . . . .

He heard a sound beside him, interrupting his melancholy thoughts. Faevathor rode at his side. Nodding briefly when Súlfalas' gaze met his, the ellon fixed his eyes on Ivor's back and rode in silence. Súlfalas turned his face toward the road again. His grief was like a wound never fully healed, but long scarred over . . . he could not imagine riding into this kind of war with pain as fresh as Fae's. The look in Faevathor's eyes haunted him. He searched for something, anything to talk about. "I see you have friends among the Númenoreans now."
Fae's head whipped around, searching for any hidden malice in Súl's demeanor. When he saw nothing but frank curiosity, the tense line of his shoulders relaxed and he nodded. "Not a bad sort, really." Súlfalas shrugged. "No reason he or any of the others should be. Different . . . but not bad. I've seen the 'barbarians' as some call them prove their worth time and again. They are rough, no doubt, but there is more to them than most know."

Faevathor nodded again but said no more, so Súl searched about for a new topic. "Do you know where we're stopping for the night?" Fae smiled to himself. It was obvious what Súl was trying to do, and he appreciated it. May as well humor him. "Not paying attention this morning, I see. Ivorcheneb mentioned Micheldelving, on the borders of the Shire. We will have to ride hard to make it though, something we cannot really do until this fog lifts completely."

Just then Ivor glanced over his shoulder and saw through the curtain of fog the two of them riding together. With a jerk of his head he motioned for them to catch up and ride alongside him. When the three were riding abreast Súlfalas couldn't resist teasing Ivor once more about his earrings. "Gon Ivor . . . what exactly was that word you used when we fixed up your ears? I'm not quite sure I've heard it before. It was very melodic. Perhaps you will use it in one of your speeches to the troops?" Ivor scrambled to remember ANYTHING he might have said that night, but it was lost in the haze of wine and bitterness. However, judging from the wolfish grin on Súl's face and the almost-smile on Fae's, it must have been bad. Really bad.

"If either of you EVER repeat anything I said that night, you will be shackled and forced to walk behind the horses the ENTIRE way to Mordor!"
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 02, 2003 12:19
"Sir?"

Ohtar lifted his gaze to meet Vanrick's dark eyes.

"Yes, Vanrick, I'm listening."

The elder man didn't feel at ease, but there obviously was something that bothered him, that Ohtar could tell for sure.

"I don't mean to interfere, but... Why aren't you riding in front? I mean, you are our Captain, sir, and you should lead us."

Ohtar gritted his teeth. Calm down, calm down, they don't have to see you angry...

"Captain Ivorcheneb is the leader of this mission, you heard that yesterday. From the King Gil-Galad himself. It is his place, you know the rules." There, he had said it. Oh, Eru! It was hard. And not only to be an inferior of an elf, but to be forced to bear with this situation in the eyes of his men. Oh, he was sure about the four that were from his own forces, that had stood by his side and bled with him during the siege of Minas Ithil. But they were all that was left from his horde. The rest of the men he had led to battle were injured and had to remain at Gil-Galad's palace or even in Minas Anor. So he had to take three of Anarion's best men he didn't know. And this wasn't the best beginning as their Captain.

Vanrick was quiet for some time.

"I understand, sir. But some of the men won't."

Now it was Ohtar's turn to think quietly.

"I know, Vanrick. And I know I'll have to deal with that later."

Vanrick nodded.

It was good to have Vanrick at his side. He was the one person Ohtar always could rely on. Even if he wouldn't understand, he would support him.

Ohtar looked at Cirya's straight back in front. She didn't seem tired.

Fae's and Sulfalas' rush forward to talk to Ivorcheneb caught his attention. Were they dicussing the route? He hated this situation! He hated this imposed ignorance of his, this fog, this Ivorcheneb, those three men he had with him, this neverending road, this...!

He'd better find something he didn't hate, and find it soon!

[Edited on 2/12/2003 by Nifredil]
We still remember, we who dwell In this far land, beneath the trees The starlight on the Western seas...
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 02, 2003 03:04
Aervon eyed with distaste the fog that enveloped him as he rode in Ohtar's wake. He was one of the men who had understood Captain Ivorcheneb's command to move out, and had (personally) been embarrassed that not all of their group had. It made the men look...it made them look...well, stupid, in the eyes of their new allies.

And...Ohtar was not riding in front. He should be up there, leading, not following behind that Elf with the long braid. Aervon had followed his captain faithfully for some time, and had no intention of questioning him...now. Aervon was one of the few Men who could possibly get away with doing so, but, it wasnt the time to do so. Yet. And...these Elves. He had been as surprised as the others to see women in their company. How could his captain have allowed it? They would be nothing but trouble - for all of them. This was War not a..not a...he couldn't quite think of an appropriate word, but this was war! Fuming to himself, Aervon glared again at the fog.


****************************************
"If either of you EVER repeat anything I said that night, you will be shackled and forced to walk behind the horses the ENTIRE way to Mordor!"

At Ivor's words, Fae couldn't help himself. He actually laughed aloud. Both Ivor and Súl looked at him, startled. Fae knew Ivor would do no such thing, but the threat of it made it clear to Faevathor that his friend had no idea of what he had said last night.

Seeing his friends raised eyebrows, Fae sobered at the reason they were surprised, but there was still a slight twinkle in his shadowed eyes, as he said, "Ay. I still can laugh. Interesting, is it not?" The gleam disappeared then, and his voice turned bitter. "I suppose, it gives one hope."

"Fae..." The Ellon shook his head at Ivor's quiet voice. "I will be all right, mellon nín. Eventually." As he blinked back the tears, Fae heartily wished the fog would lift. With the Sun in his eyes he would have an excuse for them. Or...at least...he could pretend that it was so...if only to himself.


[Edited on 2/12/2003 by gwendeth]
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[Edited on 12/2/2003 by Tasar_Took_Nualda]

[Edited on 2/12/2003 by gwendeth]
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 02, 2003 07:11
The gleam in Faevathor’s eyes disappeared then, and his voice turned bitter. "I suppose, it gives one hope."

"Fae..." Ivorcheneb began, his voice quiet and full of sympathy. Fae shook his head. "I will be all right, mellon nín. Eventually," he said as he blinked back the tears. The rode on for a while in silence. Ivorcheneb was glad to have the three by his side…He could feel the hateful glares of the Númenorean Captain on his back. Ohtar’s anger and frustration hung upon the air about the company as thickly as did the dense fog which surrounded them. Ivor sighed deeply. It was not his intention to make Ohtar look as if he were an underling. Indeed, Ivor understood how important it was for the Captain of the Edain to keep the respect of his men. The ellon feared that his relationship with his Númenorean counterpart had begun badly…and it worried him. The entire company depended upon their cohesiveness, and he resolved to try to speak with Ohtar as soon as they stopped to camp.

Ivorcheneb bent down and reached into his saddle bag to retrieve his water-skin and his hand brushed something silky. He pulled out a small, lacy handkerchief and his brow creased in confusion. “Ai, Ivor… Would that belong to Hiril Saida?” Súl teased. A look of sudden realization grew upon Ivor’s face and he closed his eyes, shaking his head. “No…it was just some elleth standing upon her balcony… The day I returned from Forlond…” He looked about at the other 3 and saw their unbelieving smiles. He rolled his crystal-blue eyes and shoved the cloth at Súlfalas. “It matters not! I don’t even know why Saida decided to come…She should be back at the Palace…by the wizard’s side.” He nudged Celeg to quicken his pace and pull ahead of the others.

It wasn’t like him to be so gruff…It seemed that she had changed him so easily. Why is she here?…What could she possibly hope to accomplish when she obviously loves the curunír?! He ranted silently to himself. Perhaps I am better off!… Perhaps I no longer love her… Then he laughed aloud at the absurdity of such a thought. His heart would always be hers—until the Great End. The enormity of his love for her brought tears to his eyes, and he fought to hold them back.

Pushing all such ponderings out of his mind he led the company forward faster…

[Edited on 3/12/2003 by Faenauliel]
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 03, 2003 02:31
Faramond was relieved when the group started out that dark morning. He felt out of place amongst all of them, being a stranger amongst a group he had just met. Ivor had gained his trust and friendship, as did Súlfalas, but the others; he still was not too sure about. Belerand seemed to sense his tension as his gate was not as graceful as the beautiful steed’s normal pace. Fara reached his hand out to ruffle Belerand’s mane.

“What is it mellon nin?” Fara whispered, as though expecting the horse to answer. Belerand brought his head up then down as he let out a loud snort then a quick neigh. Fara knew that Belerand felt just as out of place as he did, only Fara could hide his emotions, whereas the poor horse could not. Fara heard a slight chuckle from behind and spun his head around to see who it was that would dare laugh at him. To his relief, it was only a few of the Númenoreans jesting with one another over something that had nothing to do with Fara.

Fara leaned down close to Belerand’s ear. “Looks like we may be acting a bit too paranoid.” Belerand nodded his head as if agreeing with Fara.

As Fara surveyed the party, he noticed for the first time that a few women had joined them. He shrugged his shoulders; in Greenwood it was not strange to see women in situations as this. Fara looked toward the front of the column, where Sul, Ivor and Fae appeared to be enjoying one another’s company. Fara laughed inwardly as he remembered the occurrences of the night before. He imagined the tongue-lashing he was receiving from Sul. From Fara limited knowledge of Súlfalas, he had gathered that the ellen was fond of mischief.

Fara’s mind then wandered to his home and the people he had left there. Ivor reminded him of his second in command, a kind, and battle-wise man. Fara imagined that he would be leading the armies of Greenwood not that Fara had ‘betrayed’ his people. Fara sighed audibly, a look of grief and doubt played upon his fair features. He seriously doubted his actions as of late. It should be him leading his people to war, yet he left when they needed him the most. And to do what? To go riding off into battle with another group. Fara clenched his fists tightly. If it weren’t for King Oropher’s advisors and their acidic tongues, he would still be home with his men. Fara rode on in silence, listening to what he could of the conversations occurring about him. His mind searched for any signs that he may not be welcome.
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[Edited on 12/3/2003 by Tasar_Took_Nualda]
moonletters
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 03, 2003 06:19
She could feel eyes upon her.
Curious eyes, inquisitive eyes, angry hateful eyes. She could feel them running along her body, as if caressing her in the cruelest way they could think of.

Paranoid, she thought to herself, trying to take a calming breath, I'm only paranoid.

She sat stiffly on her steed, his pace obedient and reflecting calm. Breathing a harsh sigh from her dry lips, she thought about how she had gotten herself into this mess. It was her damn inquisitiveness. Curiosity killed the cat, you know, as it would sure do to her.

Turning her head to inspect the small stream they where about to cross, she caught a glimpse of Ohtar out of the corner of her eye. She could see him studying her, maybe unintentionally, as he looked deep in thought. Looking him over with keen peripheral vision, she decided that somehow she would talk to him. She felt she owed him that much; but it wasn't like she hadn't expected this. The resentment from even her own kin, not to mention the underlying hostility of the men they had taken as allies.

She would just have to prove herself to them. She did not look forward to it, as she could only surmise that she would either do so in battle or perhaps a fight with in the ranks. She had heard stories, of course, of the men fighting for sport, determining who was the stronger.

They wouldn't hit a girl though, of course! she mocked herself, scoffing at the arrogance of these men. Sighing, yet again, she steadied herself and the stallion she rode as they crossed the small, but swift, stream.

[Edited on 2/03/2000 by moonletters]

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[Edited on 4/12/2003 by eldir]
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 04, 2003 04:28
Súlfalas watched as Ivorcheneb spurred his mount on and left them behind. "Once again, you've gone too far," he muttered to himself. His captain's turmoil over the dark elleth was obvious, and it filled Súl with uneasiness. Something about her . . . almost like he had seen her before, and had not known her. Shadowy whisperings and images, like a dream. A dark dream. The image of his dead wife came unbidden to hs mind, the thought of her murder hitting him like a fist in the chest. "You said you would never leave me," he whispered. "I suppose this is how you keep your word."

"Súl?" Súlfalas jerked at the sound of Faevathor's voice. The other ellon was looking at him in confusion. "Are you all right?" Súlfalas stared at him stupidly for a moment, and nodded. This was not the time for remembering, or for unfounded suspicions. He turned to survey the men and elves riding behind them. Faramond caught his eye. The ellon was riding among the company, yet obviously alone. "I'll be back, Fae. Keep an eye on Gon Ivor?" Turning his horse, Súlfalas rode back through the company, silencing angry murmurs over his direction with a foreboding glare. At last he reached Faramond, and turned his horse to ride alongside him. "Suilad, mellon nin," Súlfalas hailed him, his easy smile back in place.

********************************************

The fog had almost disappeared, and the company were moving at a swift pace. Saida and Caun rode at the rear. Saida rode the chestnut mare that had been a gift from Ivorcheneb when they first traveled together, the one he had insisted was "part of her pay" for her services as a guide to he and two others in the North. Somehow she couldn't smile at the memory now. Had she another mount she would have left this one behind, though it would have torn her heart to do so.

What has happened to me, she wondered as she rode, I thought I had left feeling behind long ago- I will NOT be vulnerable! Her face, and her heart, hardened. I will NEVER love again, not him, not anyone! She urged her horse to a faster pace, attributing the tears in her eyes to the strength of the wind in her face. Caun let her go, knowing he would be of little help, whatever was affecting her. And he was pretty sure he knew what it was.

The day passed as the miles disappeared under the horses' thundering hooves. Darkness was descending upon the land; soon it would be time to make camp. When the dark, wide ravine of Micheldelving stretched out before them, Ivorcheneb's call to stop and dismount came from the front. A small river ran through the base of the ravine, a blessing as it provided them with water for drinking and cooking, and for the horses.

At the meeting that morning they had all been assigned different tasks, and they wearily spread out to gather firewood or secure the camp or begin meal preparations, whatever their designated duty was. Saida had been assigned to gather wood, a welcome task considering her lack of cooking skills. Still, considering the sparse vegitation of the landscape, it was not an easy task. At last she had managed to scrounge a decent load, and turned it over to the fire-builders. After the evening meal had been prepared, men and elves spread themselves out to sleep or talk in small groups, or whatever activities they willed.

Saida had eaten nothing, she had no desire to. She sat with her back against a boulder just outside the ring of firelight, watching the myriads of stars dancing silently in the sky. She almost wished she had stayed with Pallando, if only so that she would never be alone. Tears burned in her eyes again, she closed her eyes but still they came. They came so readily these days. She hated it, but she was powerless to stop it. A flood long held back seemed to have been released, and would not stop until there was nothing left of her.

Suddenly there was the sound of footsteps, just on the other side of the rock. Her body tensed, every nerve on edge. The steps moved around her, circling, until a dark form stood before her. A cloud had passed in front of the moon, blocking the light. Her hand went to the knife in her robes. Crying for help never occurred to her. "Still carry it, I see," the figure spoke quietly, just as the moon emerged from the clouds. Silver light fell upon the golden hair of the ellon standing before her. Ivorcheneb.

She slowly pulled her hand out of her robes, and held it palm up to show that it was empty.

[Edited on 4/12/2003 by Rudhwethiel]
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 04, 2003 06:12
Faevathor had watched while Súl turned his horse to join the new ellon, Faramond, Fae had discovered was his name. Turning his eyes forward, he again fastened them on Ivorcheneb’s back. Keep an eye on him…ay. Fae knew well what moved in Ivor’s being – they were too close of friends for him not to. A bitter jealousy entered the ellon’s heart. At least Ivor had a chance for his heart’s desire…while he…Fae was glad he now rode alone as the hot tears streaked down his cheeks. He had fought them for as long as he could, but could contain them no longer.

When the company had finally arrived at Micheldelving, Fae carried out his assigned duties in silence. After he completed them, he drew a little way apart. He would have preferred privacy, but in this place there was none. He unsheathed his sword and began whirling it around him. Spinning, slashing, the sword-blade flashed in the moonlight as his speed increased. His eyes closed as he moved, Fae’s exercise had now become a vision…a vision of dark enemies falling before him as they paid for the torment they had created within his soul.

**********************************************

Growling to himself, Aervon carried out his duties. Ohtar had then called the Edain together. Running a dark look over the three newcomers to their group, he turned his eyes on his Captain and waited for him to speak.

Then, from the corner of his eye, he caught sight of something flashing. It was an Elf, whirling his sword-blade not far away. Aervon's eyes widened as he watched the speed and grace of the Elf's movements. So, he thought, that is how the Elves fight. Suddenly, he found a new respect for their allies growing within him as he reluctantly returned his attention to his commander.


[Edited on 4/12/2003 by gwendeth]
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[Edited on 12/4/2003 by Tasar_Took_Nualda]

[Edited on 4/12/2003 by gwendeth]
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 04, 2003 12:18
He had ridden in silence, brooding about wounds that did not show. When, finally, the company reached Michel delving, Ivorcheneb jumped gracefully from Celeg’s saddle and set about helping to organize the camp. He noticed the Númenorean Captain at the edge of camp and decided he should speak with him.

As he approached, Ohtar and several of his men looked up at the ellon, the hatred showing clearly in their eyes. “Gon Ohtar,” he greeted the Captain of the Edain by folding his right arm across his chest and bowing slightly. The sign of respect seemed to take the men of guard. Smiling his best, Ivor addressed him. “I wanted to say that I am glad to have you and your men with us on this endeavor. The Númenoreans have always been worthy allies.” Ohtar raised an eyebrow in disbelief. “Is there a point to this banter?” he asked. His men smiled and began to snicker.

“The point is,” continued Ivorcheneb, his smile never faltering, “is that I know you lead your men well. They follow you unquestioningly…And it pleases me to have a fellow Captain beside me that is obviously so skilled.” Then he stepped closer to Ohtar and lowered his voice so that the other men would not hear. “Perhaps when we break camp you should ride at the head of the column…We wouldn’t want your men thinking you are an underling.”

Then Ivor bowed again and made his way through the crowded camp. All had gone smoothly and dinner was already being served. Sitting alone near a small fire while he ate, he noticed Saida at the edge of the darkness. She was sitting by a large boulder, looking up at the stars. After eating he unwrapped his long braid and rewound it, holding it in his teeth as he always did in order to reach the end. From the corner of his eye, he noticed some of the men at a nearby fire laughing as they watched him. He rolled his crystal-blue eyes in annoyance and, turning his back to them, noticed that Saida still sat alone in the dark. Before he even realized that he was moving, he had stood and walked a few paces toward her.

He sighed. Ivorcheneb, you fool! his mind screamed. Do you enjoy this torment? He laughed aloud at the thought and stood shaking his head at himself. Saida had not eaten…and so, he must speak with her. He stopped by one of the cooking fires and retrieved a small bowl of the stew that sat in a pot upon the embers.

As he approached he realized she was crying and his heart opened even more deeply for her. He knew all too well what it was like not to be with the one you love. Ivor circled her dark figure, not realizing she had mistook him for a threat…until he saw the white flash of her hand move instantly to the inside pocket where she kept the strange blade. “Still carry it I see,” he said softly. The fleeting thought of her slicing his throat by mistake seemed almost welcome—then instantly it was gone.

Then the moon broke though the dark clouds and lit the scene, showing Saida that he was no threat. She removed her empty hand from within her cloak and held it up to show him that she held no blade. He smiled and held out the bowl he had brought to her. “You really should eat,” he said softly. “You need to keep up your strength.” She nodded and took the bowl. As they sat upon the ground in silence, Ivor agonized over what he should say. Finally, he began…

“Saida?…Are you alright?” She looked at him and her brow furrowed in annoyance. “I am fine,” she stated flatly. He nodded and watched as she pushed the contents about with the small wooden spoon, not really eating much. He took a deep breath and thought Ivor!….say something! “Saida… I know it is difficult,” Ivor struggled to keep his voice from wavering. “It must be hard to leave the one you love to go into battle…” Instantly she was on her feet, staring down at him with a tempest in her storm-grey eyes. “You know nothing of who I love!”

She swiftly walked off into the dark, leaving the ellon to wonder why he never learned to keep his mouth shut!

[Edited on 4/12/2003 by Faenauliel]

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[Edited on 5/12/2003 by eldir]
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 05, 2003 02:55
“Perhaps when we break camp you should ride at the head of the column…We wouldn’t want your men thinking you are an underling.”


Ohtar felt heat striking his cheeks. So, he had noticed! Had only he or any one alse save Vanrick? And now he was allowed to take the place that should have been his from the very beginning!

Ohtar said nothing as Ivorcheneb bowed again and departed. He breathed deeply. This wouldn't affect his plans, anyway. As he turned to face his men again, he saw Fae's sword glittering in the moonlight. A smile touched his lips.

"Men, have your meal, take a rest, and then we will go for a run. We can't afford to become too stiff from sitting on the horses' backs. In an hour I expect you all to meet here. Vanrick volunteered to cook tonight. Free!" he released them. As the men went for the food, Ohtar remained standing. He watched Fae practicing and deep down in his heart there was born an admiration. The elf's movements were flowing and graceful, yet marked with great strength. He seemed to move slowly, almost lazy, but even standing where he was, Ohtar could hear the excellent blade slicing the air.

Feeling a movement at his side, Ohtar turned his head to see Aervon, one of his own men he had known for a long time. The man was holding two bowls with a good-smelling stew in it, but he had forgotten them - so awestricken he was by the sight. Ohtar smiled.

"Thank you Aervon," he said taking one bowl that was obviously meant for him.

"Oh, yes, you're welcome sir!" he paused. "I had never seen anything like this."

"Neither have I. Amazing, isn't it?" Aervon nodded. Ohtar looked closer at him. He knew the warrior too well to miss it. There had to be a reason for the man to call out and bring his Captain his meal instead of waiting for him to come.

"What is it you wanted to talk to me about?"

Aervon lowered his gaze.

"I'm not sure how to say it... I'me not too comfortable about al this situation. And those three men we have with us..." hearing a laughter both of them turned their heads to see the men laughing at Ivorcheneb as the ellon held his long braid in his teeth while rewinding it. Ohtar frowned. They should have been more quiet.

"... They keep apart and don't even want to answer a question when asked. This won't lead to good."

"You are absolutely right about it, Aervon. Thank you for coming. Prepare for a medium-length run and get everyone at the edge of the camp."

Aervon nodded and departed. Ohtar finished his stew. Vanrick was one of the best cooks he knew, and it had been a good idea for him to cook the first meal. Who knows what will follow...

He turned to look at Cirya. She was sitting on a rock, looking at stars. The elleth seemed to glow in the dark, as if she were a star herself. Why wasn't she with the other elleth?

Half way to the meeting point Ohtar stopped. He was not alone here. He looked around. He had to have Ivorcheneb informed, although he didn't like this.

"Captain Ivorcheneb?" The ellon startled as if awoken from a bad dream. There was something strange about him, even to Ohtar's eyes. But it was none of his business.

"I'm leaving for a training of my men. We'll be back in several hours."

Ivorcheneb looked confused but nodded. Ohtar needed nothing else and left with a respectful bow.

The men met him with inquisitive eyes. Half of them knew already what would follow, others didn't.

"In one line, follow me!" Ohtar let his voice ring loud enough to let his words be understood as an order but quit enough not to be heard on the other side of the camp. He took up a quick and steady pace. Vanrick followed him, then came his own men, the other three hesitated for a second. In a moment they were covered by darkness.

Their path was covered by roots and small bushes as well as little holes in the groung. Ohtar could hear men swearing behing him. After half an hour his amusement turned to annoyance. He hadn't planned to stop.

"Stop!" he called and made five more steps before turning to them.

"Are you trying to inform your enemy that we are here?! Why do I feel like in a kindergarten?!" he let his anger reflect in his voice. A dead silence fell around them. "This time I want to hear no sound coming from you! It is light enough for you to see me. And, at least try to keep a distance from one another." The men's bumping into each other didn't skip his attention. They started again. This time the men were more careful. Good. Ohtar knew they were tired from the long ride, thay were losing their footing all the time, but they still had a long way to go until they would reach the necessary level.

After half an hour more it was clear that at least the three of Anarion's men couldn't take it any longer. With a regret Ohtar decided to turn back.

When they were so close to the camp that the fires were seen, Ohtar stopped the run and let the men draw their breath. He would be embarassed to bring a horde of barely moving men back. Ay, he was tired, too. But he didn't show it. He didn't have that privilidge.

They arrived to the camp to see only Fae up. The ellon met them with a slight amusement in his eyes, and Ohtar smiled at him.

"Keeping fit." The elf glanced at the men that fell down exhausted by the fire and asleep almost instantly, and smiled back to Ohtar.

"So I see. How are the surroundings?"

"Too many bushes with thorns, and even more rocks."

Fae looked at the men again. "Were you trying to kill them?"

Ohtar had to laugh at this. "Not now. But if they keep it this way, I might later!" Why was it so easy to be in the company of this elf? And so difficult in the other one's? "Aren't you going to sleep?"

"No, I can't sleep tonight. Too many memories..." a quiet sadness entered Fae's eyes. Ohtar nodded, not willing to ask unwanted questions. Memories were each one's own business as long as they wanted to keep them to themselves.

"Good night to you, mellon nin," Fae said, and Ohtar answered the same, while feeling slightly surprized. Friend?

As soon as his head touched the ground he was asleep. Was Cirya asleep, too?
We still remember, we who dwell In this far land, beneath the trees The starlight on the Western seas...
In the Realm of Ulmo
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 05, 2003 04:28
Fae finished his exercise and re-sheathed his sword. Looking around him, he spotted Súlfalas and the newcomer, Faramond seated a little way apart, eating. Faevathor walked over to join them. He didn't smile when he did so, but he held his hand out to Fara as he sat down. "Mae govannen. I am Faevathor," he said as he quietly introduced himself. "Faramond," was the reply as the ellon returned the greeting and the handshake.

Someone, he didn't pay attention who, brought him a bowl of food. Fae stared at it for a while and then set it aside. He couldn't eat - now. Perhaps later. "You need to eat." Turning in surprise, Fae saw Ivor approaching. Shaking his head in reply, Fae just said, "I can't."

Ivor joined the three and said, "Tomorrow, Gon Ohtar will be riding at the head of the column." Súl and Fara looked at Ivor, startled. Fae, however, wasn't surprised. He did know Ivorcheneb better than the other two elves. This was a typical thing for Ivor - always thinking of what was best on any mission. And...this group needed to be molded into a cohesive unit, and soon. The four talked quietly for a time and then Fae rose. "You're not going to sleep?" asked Súl. Shaking his head again, Fae only replied, "No," with an ironic twist to his lips. He hadn't slept last night either, of course. It was fortunate, he thought, that Elves didn't need much sleep.

He walked a little way off again, looking out into the forest, staring at everything and nothing as he did so, until his attention was caught by the return of Ohtar and his men.

Slightly amused, Fae met them, and Ohtar smiled.

Looking at the exhausted Edain, Fae smiled as Ohtar said, "Keeping fit."

"So I see. How are the surroundings?"

"Too many bushes with thorns, and even more rocks."

Fae looked at the men again. "Were you trying to kill them?"

Ohtar laughed. "Not now. But if they keep it this way, I might later!"

Fae nodded thoughtfully and started to turn away, but Ohtar spoke again. "Aren't you going to sleep?" It was the same question Súl had asked, but with Ohtar, Faevathor was a little more forthcoming. Súl, and Ivor, at least, understood.

Shaking his head, the Elf replied, "No, I can't sleep tonight. Too many memories..." a quiet sadness entered Fae's eyes. Ohtar nodded.

"Good night to you, mellon nin," Fae said quietly, and Ohtar answered the same. As he turned and walked away, Faevathor wondered why he had said that. Friend? Nodding to himself, Fae was surprised. He did feel friendship with this man. As he gazed up at the stars, he wondered why.

******************************************

"Men, have your meal, take a rest, and then we will go for a run. We can't afford to become too stiff from sitting on the horses' backs. In an hour I expect you all to meet here. Vanrick volunteered to cook tonight. Free!"

Aervon turned and headed to get something to eat. He was hungry. As he walked, though, his mind was not at rest. Those new men were bothering him. Searching for an excuse to speak with his Captain, he brought Ohtar a bowl of stew.

"Thank you Aervon," Ohtar said, as he took one of the bowls.

"Oh, yes, you're welcome sir!" and then he paused. "I had never seen anything like this."

"Neither have I. Amazing, isn't it?" Aervon nodded.

Aervon hesistated then, as Ohtar eyed him keenly. "What is it you wanted to talk to me about?"

Aervon lowered his gaze. His Captain didn't miss anything. He still hesitated a moment before speaking, though.

"I'm not sure how to say it... I'm not too comfortable about this situation. And those three men we have with us..." hearing a laughter both of them turned their heads to see the men laughing at Ivorcheneb as the ellon held his long braid in his teeth while rewinding it.

Aervon saw Ohtar frown, and a quiet rage entered his own breast. The men should have been more quiet.

Continuing, he said "... They keep apart and don't even want to answer a question when asked. This won't lead to good."

"You are absolutely right about it, Aervon. Thank you for coming. Prepare for a medium-length run and get everyone at the edge of the camp."

Aervon nodded and departed, relieved that Ohtar understood the situation. He gathered the men quickly and they met their Captain as directed.

As they ran, Aervon placed himself so he was running just in front of the newcomers. The ground was uneven and thorn bushes seemed to reach out and grab his clothing as he went. And...those clumsy oafs behind him kept running into him.

Against his wishes, Aervon swore to himself as he ran. This was not good! At length, Ohtar stopped them. Breathing heavily, he flushed at his captain's words, deeply embarrassed. "Are you trying to inform your enemy that we are here?! Why do I feel like in a kindergarten?!"

As they ran back to the camp, Aervon still swore, but this time, made sure he didn't do it aloud, although he was tempted to as the three newcomers lagged behind. They had to be brought into shape - and quickly!

Flinging himself onto the ground when they finally reached camp, though, Aervon fell asleep just as quickly as the other men.


[Edited on 5/12/2003 by gwendeth]
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 05, 2003 07:34
Faramond greeted both Súlfalas and Fae as kindly as he could, though his thoughts kept wondering. This was the first night without Marissa that he didn’t have anything to distract his mind. The first week or so, he was preoccupied with traveling from Greenwood and the night before, well he didn’t really remember much of that. But tonight’s stop provided him an opportunity to contemplate what everything meant, and he didn’t like it.

He was truly relieved for the company though. Trying his best to seem in high spirits, he talked about his own military strategy from back home and also about a few other things, nothing in particular though, just anything to pass the time. As the three talked, Fara noticed Ivor approaching them with a look that could have only been caused by an elleth. Fara shook his head and smiled at Ivor. Then a thought crossed his mind.

“Gon Ivorcheneb, might we have a talk?” Fara asked with a knowing wink. He had just met Ivor and yet already he knew what it was that troubled him; one would have to be blind not to see his emotions toward Saida. Ivor nodded, although confused.

“You know, elleth are one of Eru’s great mysteries mellon nin.” Fara said whimsically to Ivor. Seeing a slight smile grow upon Ivor’s lips, Fara continued in a high-pitched, mocking voice as he put a hand to his hip. “How do I look? Does my dress clash with my eyes? Do you think I should have worn the green one? Oh no! How dare that Elleth wear the same dress as me, now I shall have to go and change. Oh by the way, if I even catch you looking at or even thinking about another woman I’ll have your manhood for breakfast! And don’t think that you are better than me just because you are a man! I can do anything you can do, only I can do it better!” He then turned his nose to the air.

His little charade being over, Fara began to laugh wholeheartedly, as did Ivor and the others. But Fara’s laughter faded a bit as he rubbed the back his neck. “Truly though, I haven’t the foggiest idea what goes on inside the mind of a woman. Do they have to think about the best way to beat a man down, or is that just something that comes naturally?”

Ivor put a hand on Fara’s shoulder and nodded, “I know only too well what you mean mellon nin.”

As Ivor nodded, something caught Fara’s attention. His earring had caught a ray of moonlight and twinkled slightly. Fara’s eyes narrowed cruelly, Marissa would never let Fara get his ear pierced. Well, he would show her, that is if he ever saw her again, which was highly unlikely. A twisted smiled played upon his lips.

“Gon Ivor, would you happen to have an extra earring?” Fara asked mischievously.

Sul snickered, “No, but I do.” Sul reached into his pocket and produced three silver earrings. “Take your pick.”

Fara inspected each of them, before finally settling on the cuff. He didn’t want anything that dangled, it might be too easy to get ripped out and the cuff would sit nicely. “Hannad, I shall have that one if you would.”

Sul smiled widely, it seemed as though he took a certain measure of joy in decorating his naïve friends’ ears. He put the earring on his knife and held it over the fire to make it safe. Then he let it cool and motioned for Fara to sit in front of him. Fara did so obediently. As Sul determined how and where to place the earring, Fara noticed Ivor fingering his own ornament with a look of regret evident on his face.

“Okay, now this will hurt a bit, but you must remain still.” Fara closed his eyes and awaited the inevitable searing pain. Sul placed an apple behind Fara’s ear then drove the stud through the cartilage high up the lobe, along the longest straight stretch of the point. To Fara’s surprise, it didn’t hurt that bad at all. When it was finished, Fara looked at his reflection in Sul’s knife. He laughed a bit then looked up toward Ivor.

“Ai, now we are both branded a couple of love-beaten fools.” Sul, Fae, Ivor and Fara laughed quite loudly, bringing the attention of those nearby and receiving a few questioning looks. But Fara didn’t care. At least he had made a few friends already.

Fara noticed the girl he had danced with the previous night looking over to them as she shook her head then turned her attention away. He decided he should get to know more of those that traveled with them.

“If you will excuse me, I think I should get to know some of the others here as well.” He gave a quick wink as he walked away in the elleth’s direction. He swore he heard a few snickers and a couple of snide remarks from his new-found friends, but he paid them no head.

“Suilad, hiril nin.” He spoke in a soft, gentle voice. “’tis a lovely evening do you not agree?” She looked up at him. Fara could have sworn he saw her cheeks flush, but the light from the stars played tricks sometimes.

“Ai, it is.” She said.

“Oh, forgive me my rudeness fair lady. I am Gon Faramond of Greenwood.” He introduced himself while bowing gracefully.

“Laewen. And yes, I know who you are, as do most of us here. What is it you wish of me Hir nin?” She asked.

Fara smiled, “Why, nothing but your company.”

Cirya, who sat on a rock nearby, stifled a chuckle as she noticed Fara’s newest brand. She pointed up at his ear and raised her eyebrows. “I see you have been enjoying the company of Súlfalas.”

Fara laughed slightly. “Aye, the dark one has a way with people it seems.” Fara paused as he surveyed Cirya in the pale light of the stars. The soft rays reflected from her fair features, almost making them glow. “I would be honored if I might share company with you ladies more often.” They talked for a while about Fara’s home, Cirya and Laewen seemed interested enough, but Fara left out the part about Marissa.

“So, what about you? Surely ladies of your quality have interesting stories to tell.” The elleths went on only briefly about their pasts, Fara could sense Cirya was withholding something from him, but thought it best not to pry.

“I am glad that you are coming with us. Valar know we could use all the skillful help we can obtain.” Fara added with a wink. He knew they could hold their own, and he was impressed by that fact. Fara watched as the Númenoreans returned from their run and decided he should go practice with his blade as well.

“If you will forgive me, I think I should go work the rust out of my fighting form.” He rose, then placed a gentle kiss on both Cirya’s and Laewen’s hands. Turning from them, he walked off into the clearing, winking at Ivor as he passed him by. Ivor only shook his head at his friend and smiled.

Fara sang as he walked, his fair voice resounded beautifully as his song rang clear and melodically through the camp. It was a tune from his homelands, one he doubted any there had ever heard before, but it was one of his favorites.

When he was far enough away from the others, he pulled forth his beautiful sword. He stared at it for a moment. When his father was killed, it had come into his possession, though that was many years ago, he had never swung the sword before for fear that if he wielded the blade, he would be acknowledging the fact that his father was truly dead.

Fara took a deep breath and raised the blade over his head. In one smooth, graceful motion, he sliced downward in a spiral, his body spinning in unison with the blade. The weight of the sword was perfect, making it seem as though the sword was but an extension of his arm. Fara smiled and began to thrust and parry at any imaginary foe that got in his way. When he spun about on a downward swing, his blade was caught midway through by another. The clash of the two blades echoed sweetly throughout the ravine. Fara brought his blade up in salute to his new sparring partner as smiled widely.
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 05, 2003 07:00
Cirya had been staring at the stars, seeing what they held in store for them. A branch of obscure magick, she had only seen quick and fleeting references to it, but enough to know what the different positions could mean. She had first perched herself on a flat rock after she saw Ohtar and his men return from the forest. She smiled when she noticed that they where out of breath, having gone over rough terrain that they must have known nothi8ng about. Shaking her head, she turned back to the stars, trying to decipher if the had meaning. Settling back on the rock, which was more comfortable that she would have thought, she watched as the elleth near her being approached by one of the ellon accompanying them. Upon closer inspection, she had realized htat he was the one she had seen at the gate, the lost one of Mirkwood.

As the three of them struck conversation, Faramond told her and the other of his past life in Mirkwood, the one to which he could never return. He never said so, but she could read it in the thin lines of his face, etched with sadness, and the soft mumblings between the lines which spoke volumes of betrayal and worry. But he was strong, and would never consciously let it show, so she let it go, so as not to upset him.

Finally, somehow, the conversation had switched to her, and softly she told them of her life in the palace.
"After my mother died, King Gil-Galad graciously took me in." Avoiding the fact that her mother and Gil-Galad had known each other, so much more than simple acquaintances and friends; she continued. "I was brought up almost royally. As if I could have been a royal child of the court." She pointedly left out the reason she was brought up this way, which even she had only been told when she came of age to make her own decisions, around the time she had withdrawn from the cluttered lifestyle of the court. "But I had decided when I was quite young that I wouldn't have any of it. I avoided other inhabitants of the castle, a recluse if you will. But it suited me. I was almost a ghost to them; and so I immersed myself in my books. Much lore comes from the Eldar days, but even most of that has become lost." Again, she failed to tell them the make of a few of those books not lost to the savageness of time; the time which they where excluded from, to an extent. "Except for a tales and some written accounts which I have poured over, in hopes of becoming like Master Elrond. I wish to become a Lore Master, if I return home."

She finished her brief account of her life thus far, knowing full well that Faramond suspected that she had held something back. Much more than you might ever know, she thought, as if willing him to read her mind and let her secrets fly free. But he did not read her mind, and instead made to leave, going to practice his sword play. She saw in his eyes that he knew that she could hold her own, to which she was grateful, more than he could know. Nodding her goodbye, she turned her attention back to the stars and settled down to sleep. She would practice tomorrow, when they stopped again. sleepily wondering if Ohtar was still awake, she fell softly into a deep sleep, not waking until dawn.
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 06, 2003 08:50
As Faramond had sat talking with the ellith, Ivor watched him with a small smile curling the corners of his lips. It seems the Captain of Greenwood is fitting in quite nicely he thought with some amusement. After a while, Fara moved away from the fair maidens and walked by Ivor with a small wink. Ivorcheneb laughed lightly to himself as he heard Fara begin to sing to himself as he walked. Curious, Ivor followed his friend as he continued on into a clearing and unsheathed his sword. It shone in the moonlight as he raised the beautifully crafted weapon and spun gracefully, cutting through the night air.

Ivor silently unsheathed Acharn Balar—his own blade—and moved toward Fara, his smile growing mischievous. As Faramond brought the bright steel downward through the air, Ivor countered and stopped the blow cold. Fara’s brow furrowed, then—as recognition instantly shone in his eyes—he brought his sword up in salute to Ivorcheneb and smiled.

“Your prowess in battle is great, Mellonen! Oropher’s imprudent actions have proven to be fortunate for Mithlond…And, although I know you had rather be leading your own troops, I am honored to have you fight alongside me.” The crystal-eyed ellon returned Faramond’s salute. Then the two ellon brought their weapons down in front of them at the ready.

The mischievous glow in Ivor’s eyes intensified as they stood staring at one another. Suddenly, Faramond stepped toward Ivor slicing his sword in a wide arc. Ivor caught the blow with his own blade fending off the attack. Then swiftly he spun about, moving behind Faramond and swinging Acharn around in an attack of his own. It was skillfully avoided by the Captain of Greenwood, and the gracefulness of his movements caused Ivor to laugh out loud. Oropher’s foolishness is to our advantage, indeed, he thought.

The clamor of their weapons brought a few of the company to the edges of the clearing, and all watched in awe as the two seasoned warriors sparred. They moved about the clearing, the Captains of Greenwood and Mithlond, each one assailing and fending off the offensives of the other with practiced grace. The two ellyn danced about the small clearing in mock battle for some time, both enjoying the familiar thrill of the fight. Finally, Faramond—arms raised—locked his sword with Ivor’s and shoved hard. Using his weight to throw Ivorcheneb off balance, Fara watched as Ivorcheneb fell and instantly brought his weapon to a stop a mere inch from Ivor’s nose.

“A! You my friend, are dead! And I am triumphant!” Faramond laughed. Ivor smiled, and pressed just a bit firmly with his own weapon. Feeling the pressure of the blade, Faramond looked down and realized that Ivor’s sword had been set directly upon his belly. “It seems that neither of us has gotten out of this one alive!” Ivorcheneb laughed as he winked up at Faramond. The Greenwood Elf shook his head and sheathed his sword, holding out his hand to his friend.

As Ivor stood, with Faramond’s help he looked about and realized that a small crowd had been watching their practice. The gathered company clapped and cheered at the obvious prowess of the two. Ivor laughed nervously and sheathed Acharn, a slight blush touching his fair cheeks. Faramond threw his arm about Ivor’s shoulders as they walked back toward the fires of camp. “Do not be so modest, Mellon! King Gil-galad has chosen his Captain well!”

They made their way to the fire they shared with Fae and Súl and sat talking quietly into the night. As the fires died away to embers and the Edain had long since slipped into the unconsciousness of mortal sleep, Ivorcheneb stretched out upon his blanket and watched dark clouds move swiftly across the moon. He knew it would be all too soon that the small company would move into more hostile surroundings.
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 08, 2003 06:10
Dawn had barely painted the tops of the trees in red when Ohtar's eyes popped open. It was time to get up.

He sat up feeling refreshed and in a surprizingly good mood. Looking around he saw his men sleeping peacefuly, just as they should after an exhausting yesterday. Ohtar smiled to himself. This day didn't promise to be better to them, neither for himself. He had a lot to do to get those men in a good shape and make them one team. He had noticed the looks the elves had given them yesterday. But he preferred to be laughed at during the training than to be the cause of the mission's failure if his men weren't good enough. For the cause he would survive even humiliation, aye he would. But then, he would never dare to look into the eyes of those elves again.

The majority of the elves were awake, no surprize, actually. Ohtar wondered whether they had gone to bed at all. Ah, that didn't metter, anyway. His eyes fell on Ivorcheneb. The ellon was standing and staring at the forrest as if he had lost something there, absentmindedly rewinding his braid. Again. Ohtar quickly ran his fingers through his own hair. There.
It was the time to give the men another lesson. Quietly he got up and packed his blanket. Then he stood in front of them and whistled.

"Allright! Enough of sleeping! Get up!"

Startled, the men jumped up, their hands at their swords, still sleep in their eyes. Ohtar raised his eye-brow. Good! But could be better.

"You should have been up the very moment there was a movement at your side," he motioned at his already packed things. The men lowered their gazes, his own men looked esecially embarassed. But then, it had been a long time since they had travelled together, and they had been exhausted yesterday. Ohtar barely held back his smile.

"OK, let's leave thet for tomorrow. Now, get your things packed, breakfast is each one's own business." They had their bags stuffed with dried fruits and other stuff like that. The men soon were ready and sat down for breakfast. Ohtar looked at Ivorcheneb again. His offer for Ohtar to ride in front came back to him. Ohtar would have done it either way, seeing the mood of his men. Of course, it would cause another reason for enemity among them, but Ohtar wouldn't risk with the respect of his men. He decided he had to greet the fellow Captaic. He walked over to him.

"Good morning, Captain Ivorcheneb," he looked normal again, not like yesterday. "I trust you did have your rest tonight."

"Good morning," the elf answered with a polite bow. "I did indeed, thank you for asking. I hope you and your men have slept well, too. We have a long way to go untill nightfall." Ohtar felt his anger rising again. This damnable ignorance of his! It was killing him to follow the others without knowing where exactly! He told himself to take it easy and stepped over his pride. There was one thing that bothered him a long time already but he had never had the chance to speak about it.

"Where exactly are we heading? What is our route?" Oh, it was... He felt shame burning his face. He felt like a beggar, a beggar for information he was not granted access. Easy...

Politely, Ivorcheneb answered: "We will be following the Southway and then head for the gap in the Mountains. Do you know that road, Gon Ohtar?"

Aye," Ohtar nodded, "I came to Mithlond that way. Orcs waylaid us there, and I lost many of my best men. It is a perfect trap."

Ivorcheneb frowned. "Then it is likely for the Enemy to set a trap there and try to destroy or at least weaken our army before it gets to the Gated of Mordor."

"Indeed it is more than likely. We must be very cautious," it felt so strange to discuss these matters to somebody that wasn't Prince Isildur or Vanrick. But this elf did have the skill of a warleader. He did understand something about tactics.

"Thank you, Gon Ohtar, this is a valuable information."

Ohtar bowed his head and turned to leave.

"Gon Ohtar? I did mean what I said yesterday, that I appreciated your being with us. And I repeat my words today."

Ohtar looked closer at the elf. Crystal blue eyes in a beautiful face that didn't express anything. He could be saying that only out of his own purposes.

"Thank you, Gon Ivorcheneb. I am honored, too."
We still remember, we who dwell In this far land, beneath the trees The starlight on the Western seas...
In the Realm of Ulmo
gwendeth
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 08, 2003 07:43
The whistle jerked Aervon out of a sound sleep. "Allright! Enough of sleeping! Get up!"

Reacting automatically, he reached for his sword, but still felt stupid with sleep. Then, he flushed with embarrassment at his captain's next words: "You should have been up the very moment there was a movement at your side."

"OK, let's leave thet for tomorrow. Now, get your things packed, breakfast is each one's own business." Fuming to himself for not awakening earlier, Aervon quickly readied himself for the day's journey. As he ate, he kept a close eye on the newcomers from under veiled eyelids.

Within himself, the warrior resolved to keep watching them...at least until they had proven themselves in battle. Then, they would show their true worth.

***********************************************

Fae hadn't, of course, slept. He did sit quietly while his friends did so, though. He was slightly amused that Fara had asked Súl to pierce his ear. Shaking his head to himself as he ate a little breakfast, Fae wondered if he...? Ah...no. Not yet anyway. He didn't eat much, as he didn't have the stomach for it, but he knew if he didn't eat soon, that Ivor would probably have Súl force-feed him.

While he was eating, Faevathor also heard Ohtar's conversation with Ivor clearly. He wondered if the man knew how keen elven hearing was...and...Fae saw the look on Ohtar's face at having to ask about the route. Surely?...but what the Elf had seen was clear. Ohtar had not known the route! Seeking to keep his mind from sinking back into other thoughts, Fae considered that realization. This was not good! Not good for his men's morale, if they knew, and not good for their mission either. The Edain Captain should have known everything that Ivor knew. Fae also knew this could not have been at Ivor's knowlege. Who would have kept Ohtar in the dark like that? Gil-Galad? No. Elendil? But why? No wonder Ivor had asked Ohtar to ride at the head of the column! Faevathor desperately hoped that Ivor's action would help repair what could turn into a disastrous rift between the allies. There was too much at stake for the two captains to be at odds with each other.

Walking toward them, Fae met Ohtar a little distance away from Ivor. An almost-smile was on his face as he greeted the man. "Good morning." Ohtar returned the greeting and his lips twitched. The Elf, however, could tell that the man had much on his mind. "I see your men have recovered," Fae said, turning to observe them. Meeting Ohtar's eyes again, he solemnly said, "Perhaps you will not have to kill them after all." Faevathor was rewarded when Ohtar gave a surprised chuckle as he remembered his comment the night before.

"Perhaps not. We shall see," Ohtar replied. Fae smiled faintly at that, and then nodding, said, "I must see to Mithfaer." He turned and walked swiftly to where the stallion had been picketed with the other horses. Greeting his mount, Faevathor then checked him over carefully and readied him for the long day that lay ahead.
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 09, 2003 12:20
Ohtar stood and watched Fae departing. Slightly confused he understood that Fae had wanted to distract him from the thoughts that flooded over his mind. But why? Did he... no, he couldn't know, could he? He had been sitting nearby, but not that close. Maybe the elves had a keaner hearing than... yes, he had heard about that. Ohtar could only hope that nobody else had heard. At least his men were far enough.

Good old Fae! Ohtar smiled. Then he noticed Cirya. He hadn't spoken to her since that gala. As he came closer, he watched her in amusement. He would always find a woman doing her hair amusing, but in a good way. The expression of concentration on her face... He couldn't help but grin widely.

"Good morning, My Lady. How are you feeling today?"

She looked up at him, and some thick blonde locks fell out of her grip. She cursed to herself softly, but Ohtar still didn't miss it. His grin grew even wider.

"Should you request some help..." he had been doing women's hair before, just for fun mostly.

"No, I can do it myself, thank you," she glared at him. Did he say anything wrong?

"I don't need anybody to help me." Ohtar didn't understand. But on the other hand, he rarely did understand women at all, and this was an elleth, one of a kind he hadn't met before. He shrugged.

"As you wish, My Lady." He saw Vanrick trying to attrack his attention. "I'm terribly sorry to leave you, but I am being needed in another place. Until later then," he bowed with a faint smile and hurried to meet Vanrick. Wahat was it?
We still remember, we who dwell In this far land, beneath the trees The starlight on the Western seas...
In the Realm of Ulmo
moonletters
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 10, 2003 05:31
Fuming, Cirya dropped her hands from hair and gave up with a frustrated sigh. She could do this, it was only hair, and she'd done it a million times! Why was this any different?! Ah, but he had distracted her, and let her thoughts go astray, so now, she would never be able to even do a simple braid.

Curses, she thought resentfully, Oh, Eru. What is it with these men that they cannot understand that I am not some frivilous china doll to be cast aside and hidden away at the first sign of damage or danger! Seething, she remembered his silly grin when he looked at her while she was concentrating. Obviously he had been laughing at her, and apparently the need to keep her long hair out of her face.
Sighing, she finally stood, chanting to herself that she *was* good enough, and that she would show them, when the time came. She'd even resort to a little magick if it got that man to respect her...like he had that night, so gracious and accepting, until he learned that she, too, wished to fight. Not like it was a man's territory or anything, any woman could fight, if she had it in her.

Gathering her few belongings that had been set out for the night, she packed them in her sack and burdened her horse with the light load. Stopping by the stream, she stooped to fill her water canteen. After all, they didn't know when they would be able to get such sparkling fresh water again.

[Edited on 2/03/2000 by moonletters]
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 14, 2003 03:51
“Lastathon i ‘waew vi gelaidh,
Natha lam nín i cân nin.
Vi Ithil-galad cenithon thîr lín,
A gerithach nin vi rainc vellais lín.
Darthathon anech an-uir,
Ai, hervenn nín! Tolo ad enni ne lû thent!*”

Faevathor’s eyes snapped open, and then he immediately shut them again tightly as the echo of his wife’s poem in his mind brought another sting of tears. She had given it to him in the early morning hours before he left her at her father’s house. Fae was becoming weary – weary of the ache in his heart. Knowing it would never be so, he nonetheless silently begged it to leave.

He was riding alone again, for which he was thankful. In front of him, Ohtar and Ivor were riding side-by-side in a show of unity between the men and elves. Sûl and Fara were just behind the two Captains. A mirthless smile then spread on Fae’s face as he recalled their bantering earlier in the day. They had been riding four-abreast then.

Laughing to himself, Faevathor remembered the surprised look on Fara’s – and Sûl’s faces in response to his words. Ivor had just smiled. They – the three of them, had been teasing him about piercing his ear. To silence them, Fae had proffered a challenge: A sword-sparring match between himself and Faramond when they camped for the night. If Fae won, he would agree to the piercing. If Fara won… Fae had seen Fara sparring with Ivor the night before, and was intrigued with the ellon's skill.

“Don’t you mean that the other way around?” Sûl had asked, but Fae had shaken his head. “No. I meant what I said. If I win I will agree.” The Warrior then leaned around and exchanged an amused glance with Ivorcheneb. It was a typical challenge from Fae – to fight for what the other wanted to happen – instead of against it. It always added a measure of excitement and challenge to such matches – at least for him - to fight hard for something he did NOT want to happen. So far, he had always won, and against many of the best sword-fighters too – and Ivor had seen it happen time and again. It also meant a double-challenge to his opposer – to try and beat Fae, and also lose at the same time.

Faevathor’s eyes gleamed then, as he rode in his friend’s wake. It had been a long time since he had had a good match with an equal but unknown partner. It would be interesting to see how it turned out.


“*I will hear the wind in the trees,
It will be your voice which calls me.
In the Moonlight I will see your face,
And you will hold me in your strong arms.
I will wait for you forever,
Oh, my husband! Come again to me soon!”

© 2003 by Gwendeth
***********************************************

Aervon had been quietly surprised to see Ohtar at the head of the column when the small band of allies headed out that morning. Surprised, and somehow gratified as well. It would show the elves and the men what kind of leader his Captain was.

The warrior had placed himself at the end of the column, following the three new men. From that position, he could keep an eye on them. He knew his captain and Vanrick were doing so as well, but Aervon didn’t care. He didn’t trust the newcomers – at least not yet. They would have to prove themselves first. Blinking away the dust raised by the horse’s hooves, Aervon glared at their backs.


[Edited on 14/12/2003 by gwendeth]
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 15, 2003 03:53
((Have to do a little backtracking, I am so horribly behind!! :dizzy: ))


“Saida?…Are you alright?” She looked at him and her brow furrowed in annoyance. “I am fine,” she stated flatly. He nodded and watched as she pushed the contents about with the small wooden spoon, not really eating much. He took a deep breath and thought Ivor!….say something! “Saida… I know it is difficult,” Ivor struggled to keep his voice from wavering. “It must be hard to leave the one you love to go into battle…” Instantly she was on her feet, staring down at him with a tempest in her storm-grey eyes. “You know nothing of who I love!”


Saida fled into the darkness, uncaring where her feet stumbled. Why, why did he keep saying such things? Was he truly so blind as that? Or did he not want to see the truth of her feelings? Perhaps he does see, an ugly, unwelcome voice said inside her head, And he is trying to escape the poison of your affection. You are a fool. You can bring him no joy. You bring nothing but death and anguish.

Wild tears of defeat blinded her. Her only thought was to flee. It had been her one defense. Once she had fought, fought against everything that she hated or feared. Now all she could do was run from what she loved.

On and on she ran, the distance lengthening beneath her swift feet. Suddenly she collided with a solid form in the darkness, too distraught to sense the presence of others. The impact would have knocked her to the ground, but ungentle arms with the thickness of tree trunks grabbed her roughly. Hot, reeking breath blasted her in the the face as the creature quietly laughed. With a cry she wrenched an arm free and reached inside her robes. Before her captor could know what was happening, she had shoved the curved dagger to the hilt in his belly.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Caun rode silently, still near the rear of the column. He liked it that way- he could see all that was happening and it was less likely that anyone would try to make conversation. His face was like stone, hard and emotionless for one so young. It was morning, and still no sign of his cousin. She could take care of herself, that he knew. But she was weaker than he had ever known her. Not in body, but in her spirit. She was fading. All for the love of that pretty-faced captain, he thought darkly. Had she stayed with Alatar, at least she would have died strong. Yet in his heart he knew that was false. If anyone could give Saida hope, it was Ivorcheneb. But Caun knew she would not let him. He would not ride out seeking her. If she wished to go this way, then he would give her that.

* * * * * * * * * *

Súlfalas rode beside Faramond, behind Ivorcheneb and Ohtar. He knew that some of the elves in the company muttered blackly against the 'barbarian' leader riding in the position of honor with their own captain. He himself did not feel so, for he looked on all races as equals. Except, of course, the evil men and fell creatures they were riding into battle against. Those he would most gladly put in their place.

He saw Faramond reach a hand up and carefully finger the cuff in his ear. "Hurt?" Súl asked with a bemused smile. The other ellon laughed, embarassed to be caught inspecting his new adornment. "Not so much, unless I accidentally bump it. Incidentally, where did you get this little hobby of yours?" Súl's smile faltered, but he quickly masked it with indifference. "An old custom of the warriors of the North. We pierce or scar our bodies when events occur that we wish to imprint on our minds or our hearts. It is a reminder, if you will."

Fara nodded thoughtfully. "You must have had many memorable events in your lifetime, mellon nin." This time Súlfalas made no attempt at mirth. He touched the cuff on his left ear. "My first battle." Then the small ring in that ear. "My first kill." He reached to finger the silver stud in the top of his right earlobe. "My wedding." His fingers slid to the slightly larger hoop just below it. "The birth of my son."

"You never spoke of your family," Faramond interrupted. Súlfalas shook his head. Extending his right arm, he held his hand palm up and pulled up his sleeve. On the underside of his forearm was a terrible scar. In the ragged curves and strokes of it Faramond could discern two names, though the pronunciation and grammar was foreign. Then he understood. "I am sorry, mellon nin." He said quietly, in a voice laden with sympathy. Súlfalas nodded, his eyes fixed on the road ahead as he pushed his sleeve back down. They rode on in silence.
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 17, 2003 11:26
The company had broken camp swiftly at dawn and rode south-east along the Greenway. Ivor tried to ease the awkward silence that hung in the air between he and the Captain of the Edain. “We shall reach the Baranduin River before nightfall… I was thinking we should camp upon the Northern shore and try our crossing in the morning… What say you?” It was a feeble attempt, Ivorcheneb knew, but unity of the company—the entire company—was imperative. And he knew that Ohtar held a deep-seeded enmity for him, misplaced though it was. The flaxen-haired ellon held a great respect for this man… For it seemed that he would go to any lengths to assure that his troops were, indeed, ready for battle.

Ivorcheneb, however, was greatly distracted. He had noticed Saida was not with their company—had tried to delay their departure from camp for as long as he dared, actually. But, in the end he had been forced to begin the day’s ride without her, hoping that she had come to her senses and made her way back toward Mithlond…and the Curunír. Ivor worried that he had, yet again, hurt her unintentionally with his foolish words. The last thing she needed, you foolish oaf, was to be reminded of the one she left behind!! he scolded himself silently. Try as he might to bring her some manner of comfort, it seemed all he ever did was make her feel worse.

He sighed and tried hard to concentrate upon what Gon Ohtar was saying, but could not keep his thoughts from wandering to the raven-haired elleth which held his heart. “...running swiftly with all the rain we have had recently.” Ivor realized he had caught only the last part of what Ohtar had said, but thought it wise not to indicate as such. “Yes,” he said decisively, looking up at the darkening clouds. “I agree.”

As if hearing their cue, the clouds rumbled long and low and poured forth a great torrent. Ivor could ignore it no more… “Please, excuse me, Gon Ohtar,” he said and turned Celeg back to fall in beside Súlfalas. He rode in silence alongside his three friends for a short moment, trying hard to think of a diplomatic way to breach the subject. “You are worried for Lady Saida.” Súlfalas stated, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. Ivor sighed deeply. “Forgive me, Mellonen… I realize that my mind should be upon the task at hand…” Súl held up a hand, “Say no more, Gwadoren!” “We shall ride back an look for her,” Faramond finished.

Ivor nodded. “Hannon le, Gwedeiren!… My debt to you both grows greatly!” The two broke away from the column and rode swiftly into the storm, leaving Ivor riding alongside Faevathor. Several of the warriors of the Edain looked at them curiously, none had heard their conversation and all wondered at why he would be sending the two ellyn riding off into the tempest. Fae looked at Ivor with great sympathy. “Try not to worry, Ivorcheneb…” he said softly. “They will find her!”

He nodded and silently thanked Ulmo for the storm, as it masked the tears which escaped his light eyes. I could not have asked for better friends! he thought. Once again, he considered himself blessed by the Valar to have such warriors to fight alongside him.
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 18, 2003 01:09
“We shall reach the Baranduin River before nightfall… I was thinking we should camp upon the Northern shore and try our crossing in the morning… What say you?”


Ohtar was startled as the Captain of the elves spoke. He had been watching the sky attentively. It looked like it was going to rain heavily. Ohtar studied the color of the clouds and then looked at the nature surrounding them. Every living thing seemed to have hidden away. This could mean only one: a tempest was close at hand. "If we can make it that far. To me it seems that the clouds are running swiftly with all the rain we have had recently.”

"Yes, I agree," Ivorcheneb said decisively. Ohtar glanced at him. He agreed to what? The flaxen-haired elf left the impression that something else was occupying his mind. He excused and turned his horse to speak to the elves that were riding just behind them. A harsh breeze blew Ohtar's hair over his face. Several large drops hit his back. The storm was just about to begin. His horse neighed and shook himself. "Easy, boy," Ohtar patted his mount's neck. "I know you want to hide, but there is no place we can go." The horse seemed to understand and continued his way obediently. Ohtar looked back over his shoulder and noticed two elves disappearing in the mist. He frowned. What was going on? He held back his horse to line up with Ivorcheneb.

"Is anything wrong, Hir nin?" he asked worried.
Ivorcheneb had the same strange expression on his face and the same distant look as yesterday when Ohtar had come to talk to him.
"No, there is no need to worry, Gon Ohtar. I sent my men to check something." After a pause he added, "There is one member of my group missing, and I am worried." Ohtar nodded. One member missing? Throwing a quick glance back he spottet Aervon at the very rear of the column and rode back to meet him.

"We are about to get into a very strong storm."
"Yes, sir, I noticed," the man answered.
"Aervon, you've been riding at the rear for some time now. Have you seen or heard anything I should know?"
We still remember, we who dwell In this far land, beneath the trees The starlight on the Western seas...
In the Realm of Ulmo
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 18, 2003 02:38
Aervon glanced at the darkening sky as the thunder rolled above. Lovely, he thought. Just lovely. That's all they needed now - a storm. Although, and he sighed, it would break the monotonly of the ride, he supposed. He was extremely surprised to see two elves suddenly break off and head back in the direction of last night's camp. He turned and stared after them. What??

The warrior was even more surprised to see his Captain turn back and head in his direction. He nodded his head respectfully as Ohtar turned to ride beside him.

"We are about to get into a very strong storm."

Obviously, his Captain had something on his mind for him to begin with 'small talk', so he politely replied. "Yes, sir, I noticed."

"Aervon, you've been riding at the rear for some time now. Have you seen or heard anything I should know?"

Ah. That was it. His captain was as curious about the two elves as the other men.

Aervon shook his head, just as the storm broke. "No sir, other than the two Elves who turned back. The dark one with the rings," and Aervon paused to shudder at the thought, "and another one. I did count that we were one less than yesterday, but all our men are accounted for." Of that the man was very sure of! When he had realized someone was missing, Aervon had recounted very carefully - several times. No...all the men were there - even the three newcomers.

Ohtar nodded then, but said, "If you do see something, let me know, immediately." Again bowing his head slightly, Aervon said, "Yes, sir," and the Edain Captain urged his horse forward until he was again riding with those elves in the front.

Aervon swore to himself as a gust of wind joined the rain. Of course he would do so! He didn't need to be told! His thoughts were turned then as a loud crack of thunder startled his horse, nearly unseating him. He was thankful he was at the rear, where no one could see him as he regained control of his mount, his face burning with shame.

**************************************
Fae followed Súl and Fara with his eyes for a moment as they headed back toward the camp. Keenly eyeing his friend, Fae was filled with sympathy. “Try not to worry, Ivorcheneb…” he said softly. “They will find her!”

The sound of the two horses heading back caught Ohtar's attention and the Edain Captain slowed his horse so they could catch up.

"Is anything wrong, Hir nin?" Ohtar addressed Ivor and the worry in his voice was clear. Fae listened to Ivor's explanation, and was quietly glad that his friend was, well, almost honest with the other captain. There was no need...and then Ohtar headed back toward the end of the column. He returned very shortly, though, so Faevathor didn't think much of it. His attention was then distracted when Mithfaer bolted at an extremely loud thunderclap. Shaking his head, the dark-haired warrior-elf calmed the grey stallion and rejoined Ivor and Ohtar.

Meeting the Edain Captain's eyes for a moment, Fae grinned in response to the acknowlegement of his horsemanship. In silence, the band continued on their way, fighting the blustery wind, and blinking against the rain that pelted down around them.
Image

[Edited on 18/12/2003 by PotbellyHairyfoot]
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 21, 2003 11:59
Before her captor could know what was happening, she had shoved the curved dagger to the hilt in his belly.


Saida gave the knife a twist, wielding the cruel blade with deadly skill. The creature gave a monstrous roar and backhanded her, knocking her to the ground as the beast itself fell. Saida now knew what her opponent was- an orc of Mordor, the repulsive servants of darkness .

She pushed herself up as the orc's death sounded in his throat. Crouching near the carcass, she used her hands to discover what her eyes could not see in the darkness. The beast wore no heavy armor, and carried no weapons other than a clumsy curved sword. Her hand touched a familiar object, and she pulled her knife from the orc's belly, her nose wrinkling at the smell of the orc's black blood. Wiping the blade on a tuft of rough grass, she replaced it within her robes.

Dawn was coming, she could smell it. Alatar had once told her that was ridiculous, but it was true. The others would be breaking camp soon. Then the thought struck her- she no longer knew where camp was. She must find it, the warriors must be warned. This scout had not been rambling aimlessly. They were being watched.







((Sorry so short, I'm still practically immobilized by the flu. More detail next time, I promise!))
maeghin
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Post RE: Dartho Annin An-uir: Be With Me Always
on: December 21, 2003 05:59
The look of fear and sorrow evident in Ivor’s expression and posture made Fara’s own heart ache. He knew the extent of Ivor’s pain and also the origin, for the look in his eyes was one that could only have been caused by grief and fear for a loved one. Fara had felt it once before too, though it seemed an uncountable time in the past.

“We shall ride back and look for her.” Fara knew not why he felt the need to look for Ivor’s lost love, he just knew he must. He owed Ivor a great debt, and beyond that, he felt something growing in the back of his mind, something dark and foreboding. He had felt it ever since they broke camp.

As the first drops of rain smote his golden plate armor, Fara turned Belerand around, in the direction of their former camp, pulling his cloak over his shoulders. He rode side-by-side with Súl, ignoring the questioning eyes he felt on his back as they raced off.

The rain picked up in volume and the warm mist began to fall heavier, in larger droplets. Fara blinked his eyes repeatedly as the large watery projectiles splattered on his face. A bright flash of light illuminated the sky to the South, followed by a rumbling crash of thunder which echoed through the land. Belerand did not waver though, he only snorted louder as though in defiance against nature itself.

Súlfalas suddenly reigned in his horse. Fara followed his lead and pulled Belerand to a halt. “What is it? What do you see?” He almost had to shout over the volume of the storm.

Súl shook his head. “I do not know. Something is amiss.” Sul’s face grew stern and rigid as he surveyed the landscape. Then, decisively, he set his steed forth once more.

Fara nudged Belerand into motion. He too felt something was wrong. They were almost to the former campsite by now, unfortunately though, the rain had washed away any chance of finding a sign to show them where Saida had disappeared to. The dark clouds blocked much of the sun’s light as well. As they approached the camp, they slowed their pace, surveying the ground for anything that might help with their search. Fara found the place he had last seen Saida and dismounted, though he did not expect to find anything.

He drew his sword and pushed aside a few small branches of undergrowth, sending a shower of droplets falling from their resting place. A clump of ferns sagged nearby, from the heavy weight of the falling water. Something about them caught Fara’s keen gaze. He quickly closed the few steps between himself and them. There was something there. Fara crouched low, though careful not to let his knees into the muck and mud which the ground had been turned to.

There, a small pouch lay. It was made of leather and shown almost black due to the amount of moisture it had absorbed. Fara lifted it and examined it closer. He did not find it familiar though. Quickly, he stood and searched for Súl through the sheets of rain that plummeted to the earth, creating a dense blanket of liquid through the air. He found him not far away, his eyes keenly searching the ground for any sign of a clue.

“Súlfalas!” Fara called out in a loud voice, though it was greatly dampened by the sound of the falling rain. Súl turned his face in Fara’s direction. “Do you recognize this?” Fara called out.

Súl quickly made his way to Fara, taking great, quick strides. When he drew near enough, he took the bag from Fara and studied it closer. “Ai, these are Saida’s things.” He looked back up to Fara, concern evident in his expression. “She would not have left these here purposefully.”

Fara took a quick breath in understanding then added, “Then we should split up and search for her. We should find her faster that way.” Though Fara wished not to go off alone, he did not doubt his skills, nor those of Súl. If Ivor’s love was in danger, than Fara owed it to him to bring her back safely.

Súl nodded in agreement. Fara extended his arm, which Súl grasped at the elbow, Fara did likewise to Súl. They nodded an unspoken understanding to each other, then went their separate ways. Fara mounted Belerand, flinging his heavily soaked cloak behind him. He decided that speed would be the most important thing as the ground would be overly reluctant to yield any sign of Saida’s presence. They would have to be fortunate and find her with their own eyes.

As Fara nudged Belerand forth, another flash of light and a clap of thunder roared through the sky. This time, it was closer. Fara pulled the hood of his cloak further over his face, though it was a null attempt to keep the water out. The horse’s hooves slapped at the puddles as he rode through the sparse woods. Every now and then, they would come to a low-lying branch, drenching Fara even more as they disrupted its resting place.

Fara searched desperately for Saida, but to no avail. The rainfall shortened his range of view, try as he might to pierce the falling fluid. Then, he saw something. It looked like the darker silhouette of a body lying on the ground, against a grey backdrop. Fara’s heart almost leapt into his throat. He urged Belerand to quicken his gate, but as they drew nearer, his horse reared back, almost throwing Fara from his back. But the skilled rider hung tight.

As Belerand stamped his feet nervously on the ground and whinnied in a loud, frightened voice, Fara drew his long sword. He dismounted the frightened beast, running his hand firmly down his shoulder and neck as he carefully walked past. Belerand snorted furiously. Fara grasped the reigns and whispered a word of comfort to him as he lead the horse behind him, closer to the object on the ground.

When he was close enough, Fara knew why Belerand had behaved thusly. It was the body of a dead Orc. Fara kicked the body firmly, before he determined it was in fact dead. He then knelt to examine it. Much to his surprise, he found a deep knife wound in his belly, thrust upward toward his ribs and vital organs therein.

Fara drew back quickly and tightened his grip on his sword. So, the Orcs were nearby. By the looks of this one, he must have been a scout. He wore no armor, thus making him faster and easier to sneak around unnoticed. But if this was just a scout, then its full party must nearby somewhere. Saida’s face flashed before his mind’s eye and he looked furiously around, more desperate now than ever to find the Elven maiden.

Not finding any sign of life nearby, Fara turned to mount Belerand once more. The horse still snorted disapprovingly, which made Fara even more urgent. Belerand seldom behaved thusly unless he was trying to warn Fara of something. But Fara could not discern anything in the immediate vicinity that would warrant such a fuss. He stared into his equestrian friend’s face, searching his eyes in an attempt to calm the animal. A few drops of water dripped from the horses long eyelashes as his facial muscles twitched slightly.

Finally, he had calmed once more and pawed the ground in submission. Fara nodded and mounted, keeping his guard on highest alert. He nudged Belerand forth into the misty landscape. The occasional burst of lightning would illuminate the landscape brilliantly, but only for a split second, before all went darker again. Fara continued his desperate search, hoping beyond hope to find the woman alive. He prayed for her safety, and also for the safety of Sulfalas.
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