Subject: An elf walks into a bar... (Scripted)Keep
Happy_Hobbit
Huggable Hobbit
Registered: 5/21/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/3/2003 at 02:50 AM
Elnineth is carried into a cave, its entrance is wide and airy and if the weather had been better fairly light, there is little shelter as the wind blows the rain into the cave mouth. Further back is a narrow passage that leads to a large chamber.
The inner cave seems to be one large chamber, the roof lower than that of the outer one, but still high enough for the tall elf to stand without stooping. There is a cave pool, the floor is fairly smooth, with a few large boulders.
Andariel notes that if theymove some of the larger fragments they can make a sleeping area towards the back of the cave. Here there is a little wall that almost closes off the back, perhaps it did once but now it serves to act as a wind break.
The horses shelter from the rain in the outer cave whilst the company move to the inner cave. Vana soon has a small fire going and its light helps to dispell the gloom a little.
Elnineth sits hugging her doll tightly, she has no reasons to fear this place, yet something dark approaches, a memory from the past, one she had struggled to keep burried is about to revisit her again.
She has no words to describe the fear that is creeping upon her, so instead she hugs the little wooden doll and stares blankly into the fire.
Andaariel sets to clear a smooth surface at the back of the cave. Vana comes to help and soon Andaariel leaves her setting out bed rolls and blankets.
Leaving Vana Andaariel goes over to the small cave pool, dipping her hand into it she carefully tastes it. To her surprise it is not salty at all but fresh and cool.
They now have shelter and water, only food is needed. Perhaps she can find something for them.
"We can drink this."she calls to the others. eyeing Elnineth with dismay.
Although she is loathed to leave Elnineth, sensing something is troubling the little Hobbit/Maaia she knows there need for food is urgent now for they have not eaten properly for several days.
Reluctantly she leaves Elnineth in Eldaline's care, Eladine has found a few scraps of cloth and for a moment she is occupying Elnineth by making clothes for her dolly.
[Edited on 22/6/2003 by Happy_Hobbit]
____________________ Gil-galad berio i rad padathach. (origional by dreamdancer)
Vanalosswen
Council Member
Registered: 11/20/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/3/2003 at 06:07 AM
After she finished rolling out the bed rolls, Vanalosswen walked over to the pool and drank deeply, then washed her face, carefully washing away all signs of tears. Feeling refreshed and healed, she picked up her bow and quiver and silently walked over to Anda.
"What are you doing, Vana?" asked Anda.
Vana's blue eyes sparkled slightly as she replied, "We need food. If you are going hunting, I would like to come with you."
Nodding her head, Anda turned and led the way into the forest. The two women were as silent as shadows, Vana's grey cloak blending with the shadows perfectly. They had walked for about five minutes when Anda stopped adruptly, pointing to a young buck in their path. Nodding, Vana pulled an arrow from her quiver at the same time that Anda did. They aimed, and fired at the same second. Both arrows thudded in the buck's throat, killing it instantly. Letting out a sigh of relief, Vana said with mischief shining in her blue eyes, "Now I can teach you how to skin and dress a deer." Making a face at her, Anda picked up the buck and led the way back to the cave.
____________________ 'Take the wave now and know that you're free. Turn your back on the land, face the Sea. Face the wind now, so wild and so strong. When you think of me, wave to me and send me a song.'
"Were you no one, were you a serf off the streets, still, you are my friend and that is of ultimate value to me."
--Legolas, Exile
Andaariel
CoE Party Planning Admin & Proud Mommy
Registered: 11/13/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/3/2003 at 07:36 AM
Andaariel is limping slightly by the time she and Vana get back to the cave. She is sore and soaking wet, but at least they will all get a decent meal. The ride the following day will be a rough one, especially if the rain keeps up.
She pets Chase, and then Naurneth when she passes through the outer chamber of the cave. Once inside, she drops the buck as gently as possible onto the floor. Both Eldaline and Elnineth look over. Eldaline smiles, but Elnineth merely returns to staring into the flames of the fire.
As Vanalosswen prepares to clean the deer, Andaariel looks down at the bow and quiver in her hands. They are Bragolath's, left behind when Strongbow took him away. Anda had picked them up and worn them , then used them to hunt without even thinking that they weren't hers. But here, in this moment, she allows herself to wonder how her two companions are faring...what dangers they may be facing without the others. She looks down at the skirt of her dress. It is torn, and there is orc-blood splattered on it. Further down, are the bloody handmarks left from when Brag had clutched onto the fabric in agony as Strongbow had removed the arrow...
Anda blinks away tears, regardless of their determination to fall. This is no time for crying. She has things to get done, and Elnineth to care for. She can have a breakdown in Rivendell if she needs to, but until then, she has to remain strong. Besides, being strong and not crying had come so easy to her before the last two days...she reminds herself to hold it together.
She turns her head away from the sight of what Vana is doing, for some unknown reason unable to stomach it. "Some other time, Vana, thank you," she says, rising and going over to Elnineth.
"I'll be right back, okay? You stay here. I'll just be outside, but I want you to stay where it's warm and dry." Elnineth nods and clutches her dolly tighter, if possible.
Outside, back in the rain, Anda does her best to clean her face, her hands, her legs. She undoes the braid in her hair, and stands, face up to the sky...not wanting to look at the bloody torn dress. Not wanting to see the bruises on her legs. The tears win, and rush down her face like hot rivers. She thinks of all those she cares for, near to her, and far.
When she cannot cry anymore, she returns inside, and sits by the fire. Vana has already begun to cook the deer, and the smell makes their stomachs rumble.
"I can see Daddy Elrond tomorrow?" Elnineth asks, but her voice carries not the innocence it once did. Instead, it seems to carry fear.
[Edited on 22/1/2003 by Andaariel]
Vanalosswen
Council Member
Registered: 11/20/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/3/2003 at 09:45 AM
Vanalosswen sprinkled herbs on the meat that is roasting over the fire. Poking the flames higher, she smiled, remembering all the hunts she and her brother, Leoglas, had been on together. He had taught her how to cook during those long hunts. She sighed as her mind returned to the present, to the sadness in Anda's eyes, to the fear in Elnineth's voice as she asked the simple, child-like question. She saw the tear streaks on Anda's face as Vana stood to get a eating area ready. Smoothing a patch by the bedrolls, Vana spread her cloak over the smooth dirt. Returning to the fire, she tested the meat and found it ready. Carefully she pulled the meat off the fire, making a face at the burn the fire made on her fingers. She set it on a bark platter and anounced quietly, "Dinner is served." She cut pieces of the meat off with the knife Anda had lent her earlier and placed them on bark plates. The others moved around the cloak and silently received their portions. They sat and began to eat.
____________________ 'Take the wave now and know that you're free. Turn your back on the land, face the Sea. Face the wind now, so wild and so strong. When you think of me, wave to me and send me a song.'
"Were you no one, were you a serf off the streets, still, you are my friend and that is of ultimate value to me."
--Legolas, Exile
Happy_Hobbit
Huggable Hobbit
Registered: 5/21/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/4/2003 at 04:52 AM
Elnineth, was so deep in thought, she barely heard Vana say "Dinner is served." but she finally joins them sitting on the cloak. Her appetite is very poor, not a big eater normally she manages to choke down a small piece of the deermeat.
She then goes to the pool and drinks, while there she seems transfixed by the reflection. Again Andaariel is troubled by Elnineth's behavior.
"I am tired" she anounces simply before moving over to the bed rolls and settling down to sleep. Dolly tightly gripped in her hand she soon appears to be sleeping soundly enough.
It is during the night, when the others are settled to sleep in their own way that Elnineth finds her memories begining to return again, gamefully she fights to hold them back, but they will not be denied, they are what she is after all.
She remembers she was once in a cave such as this, to her at least it could be the same one she sees the blood of the deer and its hide hanging to dry, it reminds her of another skin, not deer skin but elf.
She had not been able to stop it then, as a babe in Mordor she could not do anything to help, only watch and witness, and she had seen more than any child should endure.
In her mind she was there again, in Mordor in Saurons chamber, Beleg had gone just as Manthalath had gone, and the skinned deer carcass had reminded her of something she fought bitterly to forget.
Now she was fey, fearing the return of the Dark Lord, her mind a tangle of present and past. She trembled, her whole body shaking as she sought to gain control, this time was different this time she would save her mother.
Standing she searched amongst the things heaped in a corner until she found Ithilgarag her sword lifting it she backed herself into a corner, Holding her mother (dolly) tightly, crouching she waited, every sinew stretched ready for attack.
It was Eldaline who found her, she had noticed she was not in her bed,attempting to confort the obviously frightened child she was not perpared for Elnineth's attack only her Elven speed and agility saved her from the blow, as it was it stabbed her hand, she let out a cry of pain.
The effect on Elnineth was immediate, not the harsh cry of the Orc she thought was attacking her but that of an Elf, the small sword fell from her grasp as she dropped to the floor covering her ears. Though Eldaline cried only once the sounds of Manthalath's torment rang in the Hobbit/Maairs ears.
She now lay stricken on the cave floor her eyes wide in horror and her mind lost in torment.
[Edited on 5/1/2003 by Happy_Hobbit]
____________________ Gil-galad berio i rad padathach. (origional by dreamdancer)
Andaariel
CoE Party Planning Admin & Proud Mommy
Registered: 11/13/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/5/2003 at 01:47 AM
Andaariel had eaten, complimenting Vanalosswen on the meat, and yet not really tasting it. Something about the caves bothered her. The darkness. The way the party seemed to all be feeling down, lacking energy. Elnineth's obvious change in character...still child-like, but as if she was stuck in a nightmare and unable to wake up or scream. After the meal, she'd gone to the pool to drink and rinse her hands. Then, she curled up on a bedroll and tried to get comfortable. Eventually, for it was difficult, despite her exhaustion and her eagerness for that day to end, she managed to fall asleep...
A shriek of pain awakens her. The fire has died down and the cave is almost completely blanketed in darkness. She concentrates on using her elf-eyes, and pushes normal, human sight away. Eldaline is on her knees a few feet away, clutching a bleeding hand, and Elnineth is cowering on the floor.
"What happened?" Anda asks, a slight bit of panic in her voice. This is not the sort of thing anyone likes to wake up to.
"I-I'm not sure!" Eldaline replies. "I went to her as I noticed she was not asleep...she attacked me!"
Anda turns to Elnineth, who is not looking at anyone. Her hands cover her head. She is curled into a ball, as if trying to shrink completely to nothing.
"Elnineth...Elnineth?" she coaxes, gently but firmly. "Why did you hurt Eldaline?" No reply comes...only a whimper. Anda kneels beside her new little sister, and, seeing that she is no longer armed, Anda reaches out and takes Elnineth in her arms. "It's alright now...were you dreaming?"
Elnineth's arms close around Andaariel's neck and she begins weeping. Recognition is in her eyes. Whatever torment she had suffered was gone for the moment.
The light of dawn slowly begins to fill the cave. The rain has stopped, and the sun is going to be warm and bright.
"There is no need to cry," Anda croons to Elnineth, combing her slender fingers in Ella's hair. "Eldaline knows it was an accident...don't you Eldaline?"
Vana is awake now, and is helping Eldaline tend to her wound. They both look over at the half-elf and half-hobbit speculatively.
Andaariel stands, still holding Elnineth, who is still crying but beginning to calm.
"We must leave as quickly as we can. We need to get to Rivendell. I feel that Elnineth must see Elrond as soon as possible."
Elnineth pulls her tearstained face back and looks at Anda. Though she has been sleeping, she looks as though she has had no rest in days. "Are we going to see my Daddy now?"
"Yes, sweet sister, we are," Anda says, forcing a smile.
Soon, they are travelling again. The storm from the night before has made the horses eager to run. Elnineth holds on to Andaariel so tightly it is almost painful. For a while no one says anything, with the exception of Anda trying to cheer Elnineth and asking Elda how her hand is faring. They look ahead to their road to Rivendell and the safe haven of Imladris.
While Anda would like to wonder what seeing Lord Elrond again will be like, her main concern is having the other members of the party healed, fed and rested, and getting Elnineth to the elf she considers her father.
Vanalosswen
Council Member
Registered: 11/20/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/5/2003 at 02:55 AM
Vanalosswen rode silently on her white horse, fighting Shadowmane's desire to run. She had much to think on. She had awoken at the first cry of pain and watched all the talk from her sleeping corner, then came out to help with the wound. She frowned. Suddenly, she didn't want to fight Shadowmane any more, she only wanted to run, fast and hard, and maybe leave the confusion behind. She turned her horse and rode to where Anda rode.
"I'm going to ride a bit ahead." she announced. "I will scout out our course." Without waiting for approval, she spun and kicked Shadowmane into a dead run. As her blonde hair whiped freely across her face, she felt free for the first time since she had come to the small village, oddly pulled there. After a few minutes, she sighed and slowed Shadowmane to a trot.
____________________ 'Take the wave now and know that you're free. Turn your back on the land, face the Sea. Face the wind now, so wild and so strong. When you think of me, wave to me and send me a song.'
"Were you no one, were you a serf off the streets, still, you are my friend and that is of ultimate value to me."
--Legolas, Exile
Bragolath
Council Member
Registered: 11/4/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/5/2003 at 03:53 AM
Note: The next couple of posts from me should be considered to have happened while Bragolath was being carried away by Beleg. They have really nothing to do with current events in the thread, nor do they affect the script. I just figured that since he's basically semi-conscious and quite likely delusional, if not hallucinating outright, it might be a good time to give some insight to his past. So, enjoy my first attempt at a dream-sequence... heheheh
"HALF BREED!" The taunt was a familiar one, being directed at the shy young girl by the children whom she was instructed with. They took every opportunity to give her misery and grief, even knowing who her mother was, for this is the way of children of any race. This day, however, he had had enough. Stepping in front of her, he made his challenge known. Silence fell, the entire group stunned by the temerity of the action. "Heheheheh... you in need of a lesson, Moredhel?" Brago's eyes narrowed, the only outward sign that the hurtful name affected him in the least. It was also the last thing the taller boy saw before his world was suddenly turned upside down. As swift as lightning, Brago's leg swept the older boy's from under him, while in the same movement thrusting his hand down fiercely, connecting with the stunned boy's nerve plexus, just below the ribcage...
They walked along the bank of the river, as they had a hundred times before, enjoying each other's company and the beauty of the sylvan surroundings. Taking her hand in his, he spoke, his words barely above a whisper. "I must tell you something, Anda..." She bit back the sarcastic retort she would normally have made, noting the sobre cast to his features, knowing instinctively that now was not the time to tease. It was an odd twist of fate that, of all the inhabitants of Lorien, only she could read his moods. "What is it, Brago?" she asked worriedly, thinking that at last, he may have followed his parents' wishes, and would no longer be keeping her company. "The time has come to tell you something of myself, since it will soon be impossible to hide any longer." Looking quizically at him, she asked "Whatever are you talking about, Brago? What are you hiding?" Sighing, he unfastened the top of his tunic, her eyes widening in suprise and shock. "Brago, what are you doing?? You know how I feel about you, but really..." Silencing her with a glance, he drew the tunic away from his chest, revealing the as yet fine, but very apparent growth of hair upon it. Understanding began to dawn upon her as she drew closer to him, her hand coming to his face, stroking it gently, her eyes flashing angrily as she then slapped him soundly. Cursing him loudly, she fought back the tears of anger that threatened to flow, not wanting him, of all people, to see her vulnerable. "All this time, I thought you were different from them... I had no idea HOW different!" "Do you trust me so little that only now, when you can no longer hide it from your 'real' friends, you tell me that you have human blood??" Sobbing, she ran away, calling back to him "You're no different from the rest of them!! Nothing matters to you but you precious image!!" The young man/elf's head hung in shame...
Anxiously, he awaited her arrival, knowing that this may well be the last time he saw her. He wondered how she would take his announcement, remembering well the fiasco a year earlier when he had revealed his parentage. Luckily, she was the forgiving sort, at least where he was concerned. "Boo!" came the playful voice behind him. Startled from his reverie, he spun on his heels to face her. "Wow, you certainly are lost in thought, aren't you? I can't remember the last time I managed to suprise you... Oh, wait, I do remember.." her eyes twinkled mishievously "You were trying to tell me you had, how did you put it... 'Fallen hopelessly under my spell, and that as long as you drew breath, you could deny me nothing.' Not a bad job you did, either, once I finally got you to talk." She winked at him, pleased at the flush coming to his cheeks. "Oh, all right. I'm sorry... What is on your mind?" He drew a deep, steadying breath and said simply "I must go from here." A puzzled expresion came to her face, as she asked "What do you mean? Are you leaving on a scouting party? Don't worry, sweets, I understand you missing my birthday... THIS time..." His eyes cast downward, he spoke softly. "No, love. I am leaving Lorien. I am going to the land of my blood father, to learn the ways of the Rohan." Her eyes widening in understanding, glistening with the tears that threatened to come, she pleaded "No! Brago! Don't you dare leave me!! Don't leave me all alone here..." Yet, he did leave, and only when he returned five years later, did he learn that she had gone as well, only a few short weeks after he did...
[Edited on 5/1/2003 by Bragolath]
KeeperofVilya
Banned
Registered: 5/7/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/5/2003 at 04:43 AM
Eldaline sat upon her horse as the company roade along the wooded trail. They were heading for Rivendell, and she could not wait till they got there.... her mind raced with questions and she was tired and wearry both physically and mentally.
The attack by Elnineth had thrown her. She had noticed a definite change in the little hobbit lass. A cloud seemed to have fallen over her heart and though she knew only a small part of her story, Eldaline figured the rest was just as terrible as what she had already been told. She wondered what she was going to tell Elrond about ehr family, since he was expecting to see her father, not her, riding into Imladirs.
As she rode she loked donw at her hand, which was bandgaed. The bleeding had finally stopped though it still throbed with great pain.
But greater than the pain in her hand was the pain she felt in her heart. She was worried for little Elnineth, and feared for whatever it was that was taking hold of her. Her thoughts also traveled to Beleg and Brago, wherever they were... She hoped they were well and that Brago would be alrihgt - she blamed herself partly for the attack, for not being more allert and watchful and for not being quick enough...
Her mind wandered as they rode on. Not a word was said till Andaariel broke the silence. "How's your hand Eldaline ?"
"Better...." she said with a sigh. "But it is the pain in my heart that is a greater burden..." Eldaline looked at Andaariel worry and sadness in her eyes.
____________________ Certified Pervy Elf Fancier, Lucius Malfoy and Prof Snape Fan, Proud Member of the Europe Crew, Middle Earth Fanatic, All Around Nut and Weirdo, Resident Dierty Girl, And Proud of it ! !
Beleg_Strongbow
Master marksman, and ancestor to that Greenleaf kid
Registered: 12/6/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/5/2003 at 05:38 AM
The Strongbow urges Bragolath's horse, Alagos, further, even though he knows the powerful mare is pushed to her limits in speed. They enter plains now, in plain sight of any friends or foes. His senses tingle, and he is near uncomfortable upon the saddle upon Alagos. Bragolath is set before him, leaning heavily against his shoulder in his stupor. He moans soft, intelligible words, and the Elf knows that he is dreaming dreams.
"Anda.." the Ranger murmurs.
The Elf furrows his brow. "You will see her soon, friend."
A flock of birds careen over head with great speed, squawking and chirping, and passing the two upon the horse. Then it is silent, save for the hard footfalls of Alagos streaming through the plains. It is dawn now; the red and gold rays of sunlight stretch over the grasses, and lay upon the Strongbow and his injured comrade.
"It is light now," he thinks to himself. "And the orcs have gone. But why do I not feel it as so?"
He pushes aside the feeling of uncertainty and concentrates on the path Alagos takes them on. He recognizes her as Elven-trained; she shows no signs of tiring. They reach a rocky part of the plains, aligned with boulders and outcroppings of large stones.
They begin to pass the groups of stones as Alagos suddenly rears up upon her hindlegs and whinnies loudly. Something has scared her; the Strongbow pulls upon the reins and commands her to be still in Elvish.
The confusion has partially jolted Bragolath out of his stupor, and he blinks his eyes for a moment, though not totally comprehending what he sees before him. He hears the Strongbow's voice, in slow, drawn out tones; he cannot understand him. He sees a group of dark creatures....hideous in their countenance....but not slouched, tall and erect as Elves...and standing in the sunlight....the sunlight...?
He feels the Strongbow move behind him, and sees his arms poise Belthronding and an arrow at one of the creatures. It is felled immediately. He sees more arrows fly past him. But he notices more fly at them.
Orcs...he tells himself. But he could not move very well...the arrows...they......he returns to his stupor.
The Strongbow had quickly desended Alagos and began whipping Belthronding's bladed end at these new foul creatures - Uruk-hai he would later learn that they were called. They had been ambushed; he severely chided himself for ignoring his senses. But these were no orcs - they were as tall, perhaps taller, than him and feared not the sunlight. He felled two, three of them, and felt one wrap its foul arms around his midsection. He looked up at and saw two of the dark creatures heading for Bragolath, one pulling him off Alagos and one holding her reins preventing her from fleeing. He brings his head back and connects with the forehead of the creature holding him, spinning around and letting Belthronding's blade fell him. He calls to Alagos in Elvish.
*Fly, Alagos! Send for help!*
The horse neighs loudly, rearing back upon her hindlegs, pulling free of the creature holding her reins, and lets her front hooves descend on him and kill him. She speeds through the grasses, rough arrows whistling after her but not hitting her.
He feels heavy weight upon him; several of the Uruk-Hai have descended upon him and restrained him. He is dragged off to an area circled by rocks and shaded meagerly by a dead tree. He realizes that they are not going to kill him, or perhaps they are going to wait. He fears more for Bragolath; but he soon sees a large Uruk-hai easily carrying the Ranger upon his shoulder. He walks over to the group of his comrades and unceremoniously dumps the unconcious Ranger to the ground, before the Elf's feet.
The large Uruk-hai speaks to the others in the common tongue, looking directly at the Strongbow, as if he meant for the Elf to hear it. "Let them live. They are of good use; they have seen and touched the little monster."
Rage slowly began to boil within the Strongbow. Not only were orcs searching for Elnineth, but these foul creatures also. ...and they called her a monster.
"Monster!!" he cries. "You have no room to speak, although you care not! You are the true monstrosity, you and your master!"
With a burst of strength, he throws down the two Uruks holding him and charges the leader Uruk. In his plight with the creature, he breaks its neck.
He does not think, he does not care...they called Elnineth a monster and he was angry, as only those of the most passionate race, Elves, could be. He feels iron hands upon him, and a dull thud against the back of his head. Darkness closes upon him.
[Edited on 5/1/2003 by Beleg_Strongbow]
____________________ "Pray, v.: To ask that the laws of the universe be annulled on behalf of a single petitioner confessedly unworthy." - Ambrose Bierce
"A poem is never finished, only abandoned."
- Paul Valery
Happy_Hobbit
Huggable Hobbit
Registered: 5/21/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/5/2003 at 12:35 PM
Elnineth wrapped her arms around Andaariel's neck, she clung to her as if her very life depended on it, in truth it did for she was now lost to a nightmare, unable to find a way to back.
Deep were her troubles and upon them a new darkness fell, for her dreams told of a new menace and with it the threat to the Strongbow and Bragolath.
Her jumbled utterings worried the others, if only she could make sense for a moment, tell them what it was she feared. But it was no use Elnineth's mind strayed between the present and the past such that both were muddled.
She burried her face into Andaariels shoulder, trying to hide from the darkness in her mind. As the day wore on the group neared the forest realm in which Imladris was hidden.
As they entered the woods the cool air refreshed them. Small birds sang happily, some giving alarm as the group moved along. Through the trees the dappled sunlight fell upon the ground painting the soil with a patchwork of bright colors.
It seemed peace still held sway here. Andaariel needed to rest for she was finding it hard going in pain from her injuries and aching fron Elnineth's tight grip about her.
"We will rest here? Eldaine's voice sounded strained, even within the peace of the forest she felt worried. Was it just guilt over Bragolath's injuries? or was it something else that troubled her Elven senses.
Naurneth came over to them, he had followed quietly enough but now he seemed unsettled. He nuzzled Andaariel, then turning he galloped from the group.
He was one of the Mearas, born on the Rohann, but had lived with the Elves of Imladris and new well their ways. His fleet hooves carried him quickly and soon he was beyond the woodlands and heading for the plains. The wind sung in his ears as he travelled, his hooves pounding rythmicaly as the miles passed.
Tho Beleg and the injured Brago did not know help was coming unlooked for and unexpected. Another travelled with Nauneth now it was Alagos, he had been sent for help now he was returning, he was bringing Naurneth to them.
Naurneth, his eyes blazed he could already smell the stench of the Urak-Hai, he slowed his pace a little. Wisely he sought to place each of the foes, he needed now to make good his attack, for both Brago and Beleg were dependant on the outcome.
Naurneth left the scene and travelled to a nearby hill climbing swiftly to its summit he reared and whinnied. Across the plains borne on the wind the sound of the Mearas voice called. Those that heard it turned from their paths and came to him.
A herd of some 15 horses now gathered upon the hill, Naurneth would lead them down and into the clearing. They looked to him now, for the moment allowing him to lead them.
____________________ Gil-galad berio i rad padathach. (origional by dreamdancer)
Vanalosswen
Council Member
Registered: 11/20/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/5/2003 at 09:34 PM
Vanalosswen's horse, Shadowmane, heard the call, though Vana did not. She whinned in reply and reared. Vanalosswen was hard pressed just to stay on. Shadowmane used that moment when Vana was off-balance to bolt. Somehow, Vana managed to hang on. She called to the others, "I can't control her! I will return when I can!" Shadowmane carried her to where the small herd was gathering, then into the clearing where Beleg and Brago fought for life. She saw the problem and immediatly began shooting at the Uruk-hai. Distracted by the horse's arrival, the Uruk-hai were easy targets.
____________________ 'Take the wave now and know that you're free. Turn your back on the land, face the Sea. Face the wind now, so wild and so strong. When you think of me, wave to me and send me a song.'
"Were you no one, were you a serf off the streets, still, you are my friend and that is of ultimate value to me."
--Legolas, Exile
Andaariel
CoE Party Planning Admin & Proud Mommy
Registered: 11/13/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/5/2003 at 09:45 PM
Anda nods as Eldaline asks if they could stop to rest.
"If I remember correctly, it isn't more than a few hours to Rivendell from here, no matter which path we take. And though I would like to get there as soon as we can, I do not want us all to fall off of our horses onto the floor in front of Lord Elrond because we are weary."
Though it would have normally been quite a task to dismount Chase with Elnineth clinging to her, Andaariel had gotten so used to having the little one with her that she slips off with ease. The ground feels good under her feet. Solid. Riding through the woods has left her legs scratched and bleeding--her dress is now shredded up to her knees. She barely feels the new injuries, as they are not severe and her mind is elsewhere. Elnineth's state is not improving. She no longer speaks, but for a few murmurs that make no sense. Her friends look weathered, and it is not often that elves look so. Anda was used to elves always looking perfect...even in war. The blood of their foes looked almost elegant on their fair faces when it splashed upon them. They seemed to glow from within. Neither Vana or Elda has that glow. And what of Strongbow and Bragolath? Much of her mind stays with them, wishing she knew where they were and how they were faring. She did not like being separated from them, which was odd for such an independent person. She had a bad feeling about everything. And Naurneth leaving...Anda was sure that he wasn't deserting them, but where could he have gone? It seemed so urgent. Had they not been so close to Rivendell and in such poor shape, Anda would have turned Chase and followed him. Sighing, she sits on the ground.
"Would you like a drink, Ella?" she asks, "Or to walk around some?" The only response she receives is that of Elnineth holding her tighter, the hardness of her dolly jabbing into Anda's back. For a moment, Andaariel winces, but makes no complaint. Elnineth hangs on with an iron grip as if she would be more satisfied to actually crawl inside of Andaariel...as if only there would she feel safe until they arrived at the House of Elrond.
Eager to get moving again, Anda paces, waiting for her friends to gain their strength. Friends. She smiles. How bizarre things have become. So, with the little halfling stuck to her, she walks, waiting for the word that they can move on once more.
Andaariel
CoE Party Planning Admin & Proud Mommy
Registered: 11/13/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/7/2003 at 11:40 AM
Though they've been resting less than an hour, Andaariel can wait no longer. Now struggling under the weight of Elnineth, she goes to Chase.
"I am sorry my friend," she croons,"Only an hour's ride and you can rest a long while."
She turns to the only remaining party member, Eldaline, and reluctantly motions for her to mount her horse.
"We should be going," she says, gently. "If we are to relax anywhere, Rivendell should be the place to do it. We are so close now." Then, dropping her voice as an exhausted-looking Elda comes closer, she says,"would you mind riding in front? The path we are taking allows room for only one horse and rider, and with Ella gripping me so tightly I believe I would only slow our arrival if I led."
Elda smiles. "Of course," she tells Anda quietly.
Within moments they are on their way again. They'd had no time to unpack anything, and Anda had nothing to unpack as it was.
As they ride, Elnineth's grip never slightens. She clenches Anda around the neck with her arms and around the waist with her legs. The elf-woman can take only shallow breaths. Andaariel hopes above all hope that the rest of her comrades are safe. Vana leaving worried her, for it meant the others were in trouble somehow.
"Perhaps," she thinks to herself, "Rivendell will raise our spirits. We shall eat and be healed, and be safe. I can think of nothing else to ease our minds and maybe our hearts. "
Nearing Rivendell, the path narrows. Eldaline takes the lead. Anda hears her friend gasp, and smiles, knowing she too will do the same. No matter how many times one sees Rivendell, they cannot help but to be overtaken by it's serenity and beauty. Anda eagerly awaits her turn to see.
Vanalosswen
Council Member
Registered: 11/20/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/7/2003 at 10:55 PM
Vanalosswen jumped off her horse and drew her sword. The Urks had recovered from their surprise at her arrival and were now attacking full strength. Gritting her teeth, she caught a blow from a sword on her crystal sword, then spun the sword out of the startled orc's hand. Moving in for the kill, she felt a anger and hate rise up in her. She ignored it as she slit the orcs throat swiftly and cleanly. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Beleg and Brago on the ground, unconcious. They were guarded carefully by tall orcs. She was overwhelmed by orcs in the brief second she took to stare. She shouted for Shadowmane in Elvish. An answering whinny came as Shadowmane charged the ranks of the orcs, knocking them in all directions. She shouted for the other horses that had been summoned by the Prince of Horses. They charged as well. She had dropped her sword when she saw Beleg and Brago, now she recovered it. Out of the corner of her eyes as she bent to get her sword, she saw a orc raise his sword over his head to
strike her in the back. She spun as she rose, cutting off the orc's sword hand, then cut the head off.
____________________ 'Take the wave now and know that you're free. Turn your back on the land, face the Sea. Face the wind now, so wild and so strong. When you think of me, wave to me and send me a song.'
"Were you no one, were you a serf off the streets, still, you are my friend and that is of ultimate value to me."
--Legolas, Exile
KeeperofVilya
Banned
Registered: 5/7/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/8/2003 at 03:34 AM
Eldaline rode ahead leading the way down the narrow trail that wound through the woods. As Rivendell came into view they both marvelled at the beauty and splendor of that grand city. As they rode on, Eldaline's thoughts traveled back to the last time she had been to that grand city. It had been not too long ago. She had traveled to Rivendell whith her father. He had been summond by Lord Elrond to attend one of the council meetings. She rememberd the beauty fof the city and the peace and rest she found there, yet she grew sad at the memory for it was one of the last things she had ever done with him. For it was but what seemed like only days later that they were attacked by the orc raiding party. Now here she was again heading for Elrond, without her father. Elrond was expecting her father, anxtious to recieve an update on the orc situation in Mirkwood. Eldlaine quickly brushed away the tear that threatened to fall. She had to be strong. Her father would want her to do what she had to do - she had to be strong for him, and for Andaariel and little Elnineth.
Turning back to Andaariel she spoke softly.
"We should be there in the hour... it is not far now."
Andaariel smiled slightly and looked down at the little hobbit who still clung tightly to her, even in sleep.
"Good, the sooner we get Elnineth to Lord Elrond, the sooner she shall be cared for..."
Eldaline nodded in agreement and they continued on in silence.
As they neared the city, the grand gates came into view. The gentle breeze played with her hair as she rode and the sound of the waterfalls filled the air and a feeling of safety came over her. Eldaline knew that they were now truely safe, though in her heart she worried for the rest of her companions. Eldaline marveled yet again at the beauty of the city. As they rode into the courtyard, a figure, clothed in a long burgandy robe walked down the stairs to greet them. Eldaline dissmounted and with a bow spoke.
"My Lord Elrond..."
"Dear Eldaline..." he said though his attention was directed to Andaariel, who was still seated on Chase, the little hobbit lass still clinging tightly to her. Walking closer, Elrond spoke just one word.
"Elnineth..." he said firmly yet softly. At hearing her name Elnineth perked up and with a cry of sheer joy struggled out of Andaariel's arms and ran to Elrond who took her into his open arms and held her close.
____________________ Certified Pervy Elf Fancier, Lucius Malfoy and Prof Snape Fan, Proud Member of the Europe Crew, Middle Earth Fanatic, All Around Nut and Weirdo, Resident Dierty Girl, And Proud of it ! !
Beleg_Strongbow
Master marksman, and ancestor to that Greenleaf kid
Registered: 12/6/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/8/2003 at 06:50 AM
He stayed the boy's hand as the boy stretched back his bow and squinted his eyes, aiming for a target yards away. The boy released the bow - and was inches from the bullseye. He threw down his bow forcefully and walked off.
"Would you do that in battle?" He asked the boy. "You would not live long."
The boy paused and turned around. "I'm not an elf. Only a half-breed...worthless."
The Strongbow smiled slightly. He had wandered time after time, long after visiting the place of Imladris, and entered the land of Rohan. Noting the villagefolk's leery attitudes of newcomers, he disguised himself as a young Rohirrim having returned from lands of Men far off, and offered to mentor the newcomer, the boy. Yet the young one saw straight through his disguise and recognized him as an Elf, as the Strongbow recognized the boy to be half-elven.
"You are far from worthless," he responded. "Or I would not consent to teach you."
The boy looked away, his blonde tresses covering his eyes. "...I am glad she is not here to see me. ...I do miss her, Beleg..."
He walked over to him, and placed a hand upon the boy's shoulder. Though he was not truly a boy...he had recently turned twenty; yet in the eyes of the Strongbow he was a mere infant. This lady that the boy had spoken to so many times....he did not know her name, but knew she meant very much to the boy. "So do all who leave behind that which they cherish most. You will see her soon, friend."
The boy looked up at him and smiles, the slight stubble across his cheek creasing. "You must be very much like the first Beleg...being named after him and all...I've read about him--he was a fine warrior to the Elf king....oh, what was his name.."
"Lord Thingol of Doriath."
"Yes! That was it..." The boy stared at him, slightly aghast. "Beleg...could I ask you something?"
"After blade practice." The Strongbow turned and smiled slightly, resting Belthronding across his shoulders and letting its blade catch and reflect the sunlight, leading the boy from the forest and to the training grounds.
It was soon after that the boy learned whom he really was, and their relationship shifted. The boy changed into a man, his voiced deepened and was as tall as the Strongbow; he was proud, strong, and slightly reckless. He began feeling increasingly independent, and wished to become a Ranger. The Strongbow was not happy with this; Rangers more or less had shifty repuations, and led dangerous lives. But he knew that the boy, or Peredhil as he was wont to call him, needed to establish his own identity.
He stayed with Peredhil still, even though the Rohirrim- now- Ranger resented it. He remembered fighting alongside him in battles...seeing him aim an arrow tightly at an orc, and not missing at all between the eyes...he remembers being separated from him, surviving the battle, and never seeing Peredhil again...
He stands upon the verge of the landscape, dark and cloudy, bodies covering the field. It is near surreal how the clouds float by in different colors, how the wind sifts through his hair but he does not feel it, hears no sounds...he realizes he is having a vision, in his dreams...he looks towards the north and sees another battle upon another plain...and he sees Andaariel.
She is the picture of ferocity, clad in Elven armor and helmet, wielding a bow with a gleaming blade at its end, her cape flowing behind her. She is atop a mighty steed that veers in any direction upon her command; she screams the most piercing warcry that has ever reached his ears and makes her bow-blade sing, taking the lives of many orcs and other foul creatures. There is a rip in her tunic, baring her stomach slightly. The scar on it that she bore from an orc-attack years ago is glowing.
She runs a brave Orc through with her blade as he dares to come near, and he hears the creature's painful grunt--
The memories and the vision leave him; he is hustled back to conciousness by an Uruk-Hai pulling him up to his feet by his hair and leering at him. "We'd like a word with you, O mighty Eldar!"
He allows himself to be shoved into a tight circle of growling Uruks, some of whom crack their knuckles, or flex their hands. He is going to be questioned -- and they are willing to beat it out of him. And so they would; he would say nothing to betray the whereabouts of Elnineth and the others.
~~~~~~~~~~
"Where does she stay?" the Uruk cries, sending the back of his hand across Strongbow's face. "I will not repeat it!"
The Strongbow sags, being held up only by the iron grip of the uruks that held him up. He has taken the inquisition in silence, praying that the Elven blood within Bragolath was staying the poison in his body. He would say nothing about Elnineth.....dearheart...He would say nothing of the others...he would say nothing of his Elfling--
He feels a thick boot in his midsection, and gasps for breath. His head rests against his chest...he is losing conciousness again...
He feels something under his chin, and lifts his eyes to see a Uruk lifting his head by the rusted blade of his sword. The creature smiles, and Strongbow sees nothing but strength, and malice, and hate..."If you will not speak, mute one...then perhaps the Man will."
He looks behind the Uruk, and sees two large creatures pull Bragolath to his feet, shaking him towards conciousness. Amidst his disorientation, he hears the Ranger's cry of pain...
...as he heard the boy's cry of pain when a wolf attacked him. Belthronding made sure the wolf did not live long....
"Peredhil!!" the Strongbow cries....he breaks away from the Uruk-hai holding him down, wrenches the rusted blade from the one in front of him, and makes the crude weapon sing, felling them instantly. Belthronding he fetches, but arrows he does not use. His eyes glow as he steps toward the wave of Uruk-hai charging him. He remembers what the Illuvatar told him, so very long ago, before he stepped back into the world of the living.
To Arda you return, Strongbow...so be it. You shall not return to me until your time and place is fulfilled.
Many fall before Belthronding; he does not keep count. The group of Uruk-hai grow thin. But they are still too many. They hold him down, and Belthronding falls from his hands dripping with black blood; the mightiest of warriors are still powerless against allied evil. He could not fight them alone.
"Hold him!" A uruk growls. "We will destroy the Eldar! He pervades nothing!"
But all of them pause; ...whinnies fill the air. The Uruk-hai blink, looking in all directions, sniffing the air. The Strongbow inhales, and thinks clearly...horses...he hears horses...
Alagos has succeeded.
[Edited on 8/1/2003 by Beleg_Strongbow]
[Edited on 8/1/2003 by Beleg_Strongbow]
____________________ "Pray, v.: To ask that the laws of the universe be annulled on behalf of a single petitioner confessedly unworthy." - Ambrose Bierce
"A poem is never finished, only abandoned."
- Paul Valery
Bragolath
Council Member
Registered: 11/4/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/8/2003 at 09:44 AM
His mind drifted between the conscious and unconscious. Vague images flashed; he knew not whether they were real or dream. He had been remembering his childhood... or was he still a child, having another nightmare? He could no longer remember which. His eyes opened, the sight before him filling him with dread. Orcs... yet not orcs.. tall like the elves, yet dark and menacing, surely a dream. Casting his gaze about, he spies Beleg, lying next to him, his last sight before the darkness again embraced him...
It had been some months since the elf had come amoung them, disguised as a young Rohirrim. Having kept his own identity secret at his father's command, he knew to show discretion for the stranger, and kept his secret safe. The elf who bore the Strongbow's name had consented to train him in the skills of the bow and blade at his father's request, and though his mentor seemed pleased with his progress, he was only disgusted each time his arrow flew off the mark. It was only with the blade that he felt he had any hope of excelling. It was his dual heritage that filled his soul with the need to prove himself to both his family lines. He knew he would never be truly accepted by either, though, and it was this that hardened him, callusing his heart against the epithets that were thrown against his kind. This one, the elf who was both mentor and friend to him, was an enigma. He did not give pause, but accepted him as the man he was becoming. To this one, he felt he owed much, and strove to do honour to his training.
They had been riding for two days, following the herds of wild beasts. It was these times that Brago loved best. The freedom he felt while out on the hunt with Beleg, whom he now knew to be not the namesake of the legend, but the legend reborn, lifted his spirits like nothing else could. Yet, it was during these times, when his mind would wander, going back to Lorien... to her. He had confided in Beleg of his bond with her before, telling him of his joy at her prescence, the pain of that day when he had finally left his childhood home, to live with the Rohirrim. Yet, he had never been able to bring himself to speak her name aloud. In his heart, he felt that to do so would only make the pain of longing worse. Beleg seemed to understand, though, and never pressed him. He would only say simply, "You will see her soon, friend." That possibility lifted him from his brooding, as it always did, which was why, he felt, that he spoke of her so often to the Strongbow.
"A ranger?" The disappointment was evident in Beleg's voice. "By Eru, why?" Bragolath knew his friend did not approve of the rangers' lifestyle, but he knew that it was what he needed for himself, and told the elf as much. Sighing, the Strongbow nodded. "You must follow the path your heart leads you on, though I will remain with you for a time." Brago's eyes narrowed in annoyance, but in his heart he was grateful for his friend's continued company.
Vicelike hands grip him, pulling him roughly to his feet. The pain of the harsh, sudden movement jars him back to semi-consciousness, eliciting a cry of agony. As if from a great distance, he hears a cry of "Peredhil!" Suddenly, the grasping hands are gone from his arms, and he feels himself falling again, into the welcoming blackness...
[Edited on 8/1/2003 by Bragolath]
Andaariel
CoE Party Planning Admin & Proud Mommy
Registered: 11/13/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/8/2003 at 09:55 AM
Mythorwen watches the frey from the hilltop. No one pays attention to her as they battle--Uruk-Hai, her kin, against elf and steed. She takes a breath and studies the group, her keen, amber-coloured eyes seeking a new pet. From her hands, the linked-chain leash swings impatiently, the iron collar at the bottom thumping lightly on her solid calf muscle.
She'd been following the little party for some time. It was the little creature they'd called Elnineth that had caught her eye at first, for she had never seen anything like it before. But the little one wouldn't be much fun. Small creatures died quicker, it seemed. The company the halfling kept...now THAT was nice.
The mouthy one...Anda, they'd been calling her; she would have been great fun...almost a challenge of sorts, though no pet had ever been an equal...but the little one was clamped to her like armour. She had no interest in the Strongbow. He thought too much...just sat and thought, then fought, then thought some more. She could have taken him before. Outside the cottage in Bree. But that's when the one named Vanalosswen had arrived.
Vana was everything that Mythorwen liked in a pet. She was beautiful, and headstrong almost to the point it was a weakness, much like that Andaariel, but Vana knew how to be quiet. She seemed to know how to dress her own wounds, which was good...Myth got easily annoyed at always having to waste time getting her pets healed. Vana liked to be alone, which was a huge advantage to Mythorwen. Made it easier for her to take her. Silly creatures that didn't stay with the pack. Vana would try to escape...Myth smiles...
"Yes," she says to herself, "It will be fun to break her."
She wanted to take Vana in the woods, but couldn't. Stupid orcs. And one of the females in the party hadn't even been armed then! But the orcs got themselves killed, like they always did...never had a battle plan...never watched their backs. She'd taken interest in both the new arrivals, the male and female. The female...oh what was her name...Eldaline? Yes, yes, that's it. She was very easy on the eyes. Myth had planned on taking both of them for a while. Their little hunting excursion was the perfect opportunity. Of course, another pair of orcs had ruined that. She'd broken the neck of one of them for damaging the goods. She couldn't believe that somehow her father had been spawned from such neanderthals. It was just as well, though. That Bragolath bled a lot and Eldaline while pretty lost strength quicker than Mythorwen liked.
Myth runs her hand not holding the leash down her black leather breeches and finds the handle of her sword. Walking down the hill--she almost saunters--she unsheathes the blade. An Uruk-Hai sees her and stares hungrily.One of the steeds rears up on its hind legs, preparing to come down on her. With an amused smirk, she swings the iron collar on its chain, smashing the animal in the head. It falls stunned to the ground. She tilts her head slightly, long black hair brushing against her back, and nonchalantly runs her sword through the horse. She moves on, not taking her eyes off of her prize. The elf maiden fights bravely. The Uruk from earlier steps in front of Mythorwen and grabs Vana from behind, preparing to slice her throat.
Mythorwen stops dead in her tracks. She raises an eyebrow and slowly shakes her head, forbidding him to move his blade.
"Don't kill her?" the Uruk asks, with a confused laugh.
Myth smiles, coming closer, and runs the back of her hand gently down Vanalosswen's face. The elf just stares, never having seen an elf/Uruk-Hai offspring before. And staring is warranted. Mythorwen stands six feet tall, and while she is slender as an elf might be, she is built solid. Her waist-length black hair shines, and her almond-shaped, yellowish eyes glow. Her tanned skin is flawless and luminescent. She is magnetic to look at, and at the same time, disturbing. She has a dominant forehead like the Uruk-Hai. She has such an air of self-absorption that those around her shiver. Mythowen leans in, nuzzling her face in Vana's hair and breathes in.
"No," she tells the Uruk holding Vana. "I want her...ALIVE. She needs a bath and some time to heal, but she's in good shape."
"You want the ELF?" the Uruk cries in disbelief.
Mythorwen laughs, her slightly pointed teeth showing. "Of course I want the elf, you half wit! What, you think I came down here for you?" Her voice was slightly deep, but melodic like an elf's might be. Her laughter was like an eerie song.
Angered, the Uruk-Hai throws Vanalosswen to the ground and prepares to stab his sword into her. Myth growls, baring her teeth. The Uruk turns slowly. Myth's snarling face is the last thing she sees before she severs his head.
Vanalosswen gets up to run. Mythorwen drops her sword, grabs the whip that hangs from her waist and lashes it. It wraps around Vana's neck. Myth tugs on it, and Vana lurches back until Myth catches her.
"I don't think so, darling," Myth croons in Vana's ear, petting her hair.
Vana gasps as the iron collar is clamped around her neck.
"Walk with me," Myth orders calmly, starting away from the battle. She pats her leg when Vana doesn't follow. "Come on, elf. If you don't walk, I'll drag you." Myth gives the leash a tug to prove that she's serious. Vana begins to follow.
"What ARE you?" Vanalosswen asks.
"I'm Mythorwen...the most beautiful of the Uruk-Hai," she replies with a boastful smile. "And I'm your master."
Happy_Hobbit
Huggable Hobbit
Registered: 5/21/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/8/2003 at 08:49 PM
"Elnineth" Elronds voice broke like a wave into the nightmare, filling her mind with hope and light, she ran after it fearing it would rush away and she would be lost to the darkness once more.
Elrond knelt and as Elnineth ran forward he swept her up into his arm, his strong embrace sheilding her against the terrors snapping at her heels.
"Daddy Elrond . . ." she whispered afraid her own voice would give her away,
"Daddy Elrond the dreams hurt."
Elrond held her closer and stroked her hair, looking beyond the frightened child to Andaariel and Eldaline he motioned they should follow. His face showed a deep concern he seemed almost frightened for the child who lay trembling in his embrace.
He carried her up the deep steps into the light of the great hall. There on the floor large soft cushions lay before a great hearth. The fire set there burned low but it warmed the room, taking the chill from the autumn day.
Here he set Elnineth down and to the amazement of the others he plonked himself down beside the little waif.
Never was there such a sight, the Lord of Imladis and the
frail Hobbit/ Maair sat together on the floor of the great
hall. Amid all the splendour that was Imladris this simple
act of concern showed the true greatness of the hidden
realm.
Elrond reached out touching Elnineths cheek,
"Tell me little one what have you got there in your hand?"
Elrond nodded towards Elnineth's tightly clasped left fist.
Elnineth still for a moment considered then slowly she opened her hand to reveal the little wooden doll, she had held it so tightly it was now partly embedded in the palm of her hand.
"I think she needs a bath don't you?" Calmly Elrond took
Elnineth's hand.
Elnineth looked at the bloodied wood and nodded.
Elrond with difficulty removed the doll and placed it carefully on a side table, his face became very grim for Elnineth made no cry of distress at what for many would have been extremely painful.
He looked at the bleeding hand the wounds were deep and dirty, looking at Elnineth he sighed for she was dirty also,
"You my child need a bath." he told her firmly.
"Do you remember the way?" His voice gentle, he coaxed her to her feet. Elnineth nodded.
"Good he said then you can show your new friends the way."
Elnineth started for one of the great archways, Elrond held out his arm motioning the others to follow. As he turned to leave he picked up the wooden doll, wincing at a passing thought.
"We need to talk." His voice low and urgent, he spoke to
both Eldaline and Andaariel.
"If I am to help her I need to know all that you can tell me."
"She does not feel physical pain," It was more statement than question,
"Her mind only feels the pain of the memories she bears." with that he swept down the hall after Elnineth's retreating form.
The bath was filled with warm sweetly scented waters,
Elnineth seemed suddenly to lose her confidence and faltered.
"Its alright little one." Elrond reassured, taking the frightened child like form he continued,
"Dont you remember we always had bubbles?" With that
he poured a thick white liquid into the water swooshing it
with his hand, soon the water was covered in a thick rich foam.
He turned to look at the two lady elves,
"You may freshen up through there if you wish." He smiled trying to hide his worries.
When he looked back at Elnineth she was already in the bath tho she could hardly be seen, hidden for the most part by the foamy bubbles.
A little while later the two Elves heard the wonderful sound of laughter, one voice rich and deep the other fine and giggly. Some wonderful game had reached pass the darkness to the child that was Elnineth.
Andaariel and Eldaline, now refreshed came at last back to the great hall.
Elrond was now seated in a huge chair, a few stay bubbles in his hair, upon his knee clothed in an all too big robe Elnineth sat sipping a glass of milk. She smiled weakly as the two Elves joined Elrond seating themselves in nearby chairs.
The talk was light and as the time wore on Elnineth finished her milk and began to snuggle agaist Elronds chest, he began to sing, softly at first but soon his rich voice filled the hall.
On hearing his voice other elves joined the song and soon the hall resonated to the song of the Elves. Lulled by their
sweet voices and by the warmth of Elronds body Elnineth
fell asleep.
____________________ Gil-galad berio i rad padathach. (origional by dreamdancer)
evenstar53
Council Member
Registered: 9/27/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/10/2003 at 03:08 AM
About 15 miles away, on top of a hill, A fair elven woman clad in a purple sleeveless dress, stood in the midst of a group of horses. Whispering to their listening minds in a tounge only they heard..They were learning to follow their master, her stallion, Taurmaethor. She trained him herself when he was a colt, and he had risked his life for hers many times, and now she was passing this loyalty onto the group of horses she was training now, and some would fall....She gazed at a smaller blonde mare named Jasmine, and thought about her a bit....
...She may be small, but she was strong, and already showed loyalty, but her thoughts were ripped away as the horses suddenly started to gallop around, tossing their mighty and elegant heads, something was calling them, and they were going to answer that call. As they started off at a gallop, Taurmaethor ran and stood willingly as she jumped upon his broad back...
____________________
Vanalosswen
Council Member
Registered: 11/20/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/10/2003 at 03:39 AM
Vana did fight bravely, but they were too many for her. One orc grabbed her from behind and put its blade against her white throat. Trying not to breathe, Vana steeled herself for the steel entering her throat. Suddenly, she heard the voice of the orc holding her speaking in the Dark Speech. "Don't kill her?" the Uruk asks, with a confused laugh. Vana hardly dared to believe it. Her blue eyes lifted themselves from the ground and saw the most beautiful orc she had ever seen. The lovely orc smiled, coming closer, and ran the back of her hand gently down Vana's pale, confused face. Vana stared, trying not to react to the warm hand running down her face. Then the orc leaned in, nuzzling her face in Vana's hair and breathed in next to Vana's ear.
"No," said the surprisingly musical voice in the Dark Speech. Then she continued too fast for Vana to understand, weak as she was and still reeling from all the physical contact with the orc.
The orc holding Vana's slim body against himself said something in disbelief. The only word that Vana understood was 'elf'. The beautiful orc laughed, her slightly pointed teeth showing. She said something that sounded like an insult with the word 'elf' thrown in again. Whatever the lovely orc had said made the orc holding Vana angry. He threw her to the ground, and she knew he was going to kill her. She braced herself for the sword to enter her heart. The lovely orc growled, then slashed off the other orc's head. All Vana could think at the moment was, "No one is close enough to grab me." She picked herself up off the ground with elf-speed and tried to run into the safe forest. She heard a sword drop and the sound of something flying through the air. A leather lash wrapped itself around her thin neck and she felt something yank on it. She lurched into the orc's arms and the orc grabbed her tight.
"I don't think so, darling," The orc crooned in the common speech in Vana's ear, petting her hair.
Vana felt an iron collar clamp around her neck and she gasped as her air was lessened.
"Walk with me," The orc ordered calmly, starting away from the battle. She patted her leg when Vana decided to be stubborn. "Come on, elf. If you don't walk, I'll drag you." She tugged the leash to prove that she's serious. Decided it would be best to obey, for now, Vana began to follow.
"What ARE you?" Vana asked in her slightly husky voice, determined not to let the fear she felt come out in her voice.
"I'm Mythorwen...the most beautiful of the Uruk-Hai," she replies with a boastful smile. "And I'm your master."
Vana nearly stopped walking when she heard that. 'Master?' she thought. 'Oh dear Elbereth.'
That had been nearly two hours ago. Now Vana had to fight just to stay on her feet. She was tired, not only from the battle and wondering what had happened to Brago and Beleg now that she could not defend them, but also from the fast pace the orc set. Vana had excellent speed and good stamina, but this Uruk-hai woman seemed to never tire.
____________________ 'Take the wave now and know that you're free. Turn your back on the land, face the Sea. Face the wind now, so wild and so strong. When you think of me, wave to me and send me a song.'
"Were you no one, were you a serf off the streets, still, you are my friend and that is of ultimate value to me."
--Legolas, Exile
Andaariel
CoE Party Planning Admin & Proud Mommy
Registered: 11/13/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/10/2003 at 11:03 AM
Andaariel had barely been able to breathe by the time they'd entered Imladris. Chase had gone off for a much needed rest once she had dismounted. Elrond had acknowledged them all, but immediately saw to Elnineth. This had not offened Anda, rather it had relieved her. She had gotten her new sister to safety, and that was all that mattered.
They'd gone into the great hall, and Anda wasn't sure what amazed her the most, the scenery itself or seeing Elnineth and Elrond together, sitting on the floor together...one so fragile and one so magnificent and powerful. She was in a daze when she followed Elrond and little Elnineth to the baths. She'd paid so little attention she would have gotten lost if she hadn't spent time in that place before. Of course, at first, she had gotten lost then too. Rivendell, to Andaariel, was like a labyrinth of beautiful staircases and enchanting architecture...the waterfalls mesmerized her and the gardens seemed alive and watching her...breathing out as she breathed in.
She had scarcely heard Lord Elrond tell her where she could bathe and redress, but Eldaline had somewhat led her away. She smiled a thank you as they separated.
As she soaked in the warm, fragrant bath, her wounds stung, but she had actually liked the stinging. It proved to her that she was in fact, after all that had happened, still alive. She held her head under water, enjoying the deafening silence. There was a solace there that Anda had scarcely felt before. She had felt it in one other place, and with only a few other people. She had felt it in Lorien...
Anda had shaken the thought of the Golden Realm from her head. There were too many memories there. Even the pleasant memories pained her; as of late she had greatly come to miss the few she cared for, and she was not comfortable with that. She looked at her slender, elf-like hands. They had become wrinkly. Sighing, Anda had gotten out of her bath...the water having gone cold some time earlier.
A beautiful silken dress in a lovely shade of blue. Blue that matched someone's eyes, but Anda could not place whose...only that that someone tugged at her heart...
Once dressed, she had brushed her hair, and braided it back from her face. She remembered when she was younger...a child...how she had gotten frustrated with her hair and had made Bragolath cut it off to her shoulders...how her mother had been upset!
Andaariel had run to the great hall, as if trying to run from the memories that swarmed her in that room. Yet they haunted her even in the great hall. As Elrond and the elves had sung Elnineth to sleep, she felt herself pulled back into her mind to a time she purposely avoided. To a time both before and after she'd realized her mother's deception.
Once Elrond had made sure Elnineth was peacefully sleeping, he approached Eldaline and spoke to her, handing the little one to her. He then made his way to Andaariel...
"Andaariel of Lorien," he says in that amazing voice of his--it is powerful and calming at the same time. Firm and yet gentle.
Anda cringes. "No one has addressed me like that in longer than I can remember, Lord Elrond."
"Still, it is who you are, is it not? When were you last home?" he asks, his eyebrows arching thoughtfully.
Anda ignores his comment. "With all due respect, my lord, you and I both know that you haven't come to talk to me about my family. You are concerned for Elnineth."
He nods gravely. "I need you to tell me what happened."
With a sigh, Anda speaks. "It all happened so fast, Elrond, I am not sure what I CAN tell you. We were outnumbered by orcs, and I at the time was unarmed. Then Elnineth returned. The next thing I know, all but one of us had been injured and Elnineth was on the ground in an unreal amount of pain...all caused by the most peculiar scald mark on her shoulder."
Anda gasps as Elrond takes her by her arms firmly and looks in her eyes. There is a clash of her blue eyes, alarmed, and his grey eyes, serious and urgent. "And then?" he asks.
"And then things went mad!" Anda exclaims, trying to pull back from Elrond. "She was unresponsive and the only thing that seemed to help was water. But we had so little! She seemed to transform into a...a firewraith or something! Like some sort of fiery demon was trying to take her over!" Tears fill Anda's eyes. "And then, it started to rain and she was herself again...but not herself. She has been acting like a child for some time now. Indeed she has been in a child-like state longer than normal for the duration of the time I have known her. After that, we headed here, being separated from some of our comrades. We stopped in caves, and that is when she became as she was when we arrived, clinging to me as though she was a part of me." Lowering her voice, Anda adds. "She attacked Eldaline, but did not mean to. Something is so wrong, Elrond. I am afraid that is all I know."
Elrond releases her, and apologizes. His face shows great concern and a pain that a parent would show for a child. Andaariel leaves him with his thoughts, and goes to find Elnineth.
Elnineth is still asleep, with Eldaline watching from a chair by the door. Smiling, the two elven maidens greet each other. Eldaline leaves, and Anda goes to lie beside Elnineth. Careful not to disturb her, Anda curls up beside the little sleeping halfling, and surrenders to sleep herself...worried of what dreams may come, but much too weary to care.
Andaariel
CoE Party Planning Admin & Proud Mommy
Registered: 11/13/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/10/2003 at 09:25 PM
Mythorwen feels some tugging on the leash, and turns, prepared to see Vanalosswen trying to somehow get free. Instead she finds Vana trying to keep up, but tiring quickly. She stops, and Vana, unprepared for this, walks directly into Myth, bouncing off of her and landing on the ground.
Myth smiles. "Poor little elf...are you tired?" she asks, reaching out to pet Vana's hair. She pulls her hand back with an expression of mild disgust. "You need a bath, darling. And what's this? You're bleeding. I had no idea you were injured! Surely this isn't from before...I thought elves healed quickly."
Vana looks down. The gash on her leg has indeed reopened, which surprises her. It must have been worse then she had thought. She is also covered in various bumps,bruises and scratches. Her new "master" did not seem to care if they ran through undergrowth or over rocks. When Vana had stumbled, the leash would tug her back upright, and she was forced to continue on.
"Come on then," Myth sighs as if greatly inconvenienced. "We are almost there."
"Where are we going?" Vana dares to ask, the first time she has spoken since they started out almost two hours before.
Myth bends over and picks up Vana in her arms, and puts her over her shoulder as if she was a sack of potatoes. "Home. At least, my temporary home. I never stay put long."
"Why not?" Vana asks, rubbing her neck under the collar.
Myth laughs quietly. "I was raised never to get too comfortable in any given place. It seems the other Uruk-Hai are forever getting in to trouble, so unless we are back with the White man, or in Mordor, we must move on. Besides, I feel it is my duty to share my beauty with all of Middle-Earth."
Vana gasps. Mordor! Mythorwen, pleased to be talking about herself, continues. "I travel more than my kin. They seem only to go from place to place when they have a mission or a battle. I don't have the same rules that they do. I come and go as I please. I'm always looking for new pets, and once I get them I must leave or I risk having their--what is that word--friends? Yes, friends. Their friends try to rescue them. I did well with you though. I saw you arrive in Bree. I'd been watching that odd little creature again. It's funny in a way. I have no interest of having her as my own, but I keep meeting up with her. Like we are fated to always have our paths cross and uncross. Elnineth, she is called."
Mythorwen continues to hike, seemingly not tired at all from carrying the elf. "I don't see what the fuss is, either," she says haughtily. "She is not more beautiful than I. Yet, whenever I speak of her, such a big deal is made. I was telling my fellow Uruks that I'd found my next pet. I'd been outside that cottage. Watching. Waiting. Everytime the door opened, I was ready. I was travelling with orcs," she spit out the word 'orcs' with obvious distaste. "They managed to be slaughtered before I had a chance. I had to back away for then. That Strongbow was on his guard, and I saw no reason for me to ruin my new vest by getting blood all over it. You all moved out then, and I returned later. I told all of my kin about you. About how I was tracking you. I am so much superior to them in tracking things. All the White man wanted to hear about, though, was that halfling. Where she was, where she might be going." Myth rolls her eyes and walks between some trees. She comes to a cave opening and enters.
The cave itself is dreary and dull, but strangely bright. Various holes had been smashed into the walls to serve as windows. In one corner, vibrantly coloured fabrics lay neatly over pillows. Dresses and breeches, shirts and vests, tunics, boots and cloaks are draped over and sit beside boulders. A fire pit is in the middle of the cave, still smouldering. A large basin, much like half of an oversized barrel, is in another corner. Wooden boxes are scattered about, some filled with foodstuffs, others with gold, silver and jewelry. Vana is surprised to see fabrics hanging over the holes as if they are curtains. Indeed the cave had been transformed into quite a cozy, almost pretty home.
"You did all this?" Vana breaths,still taking it all in.
"Do you like it, my pet?" Myth asks, greatly pleased that Vana seems in awe. "I hoped you would."
Mythorwen sets Vana gently on the ground, locking the leash around a boulder, and tugging it to be sure it was secure. Vana watches Myth then, this mammoth yet feminine creature, getting the fire burning again. She goes outside for more wood, and Vana is mildly shocked to see her collecting only dead or fallen branches.
"You only use wood that has fallen?" she asks when Myth returns inside.
"Of course!" Mythorwen exclaims, "Why would I ruin a perfectly lovely tree just to warm your bath?"
Mythorwen hums to herself as she collects water, warms it, and pours it into the basin. She then gets Vana, takes off the collar, and dumps her into the basin, clothes and all. She dunks Vana in and out of the water, until Vana comes up sputtering and yells "Stop! You'll drown me!"
Myth then sets to washing Vana's hair, somewhat roughly. She scrubs behind her sensitive elf ears until Vana seems ready to cry.
"Wash yourself and get rid of those awful dirty clothes. I have new ones for you!"
As Mythorwen goes to the clothes, searching through the clothing on the boulders, Vana gets clean. Without looking, Myth tosses a length of soft fabric to Vana to dry off with.
Gently, Mythorwen asks, "Do you have a favourite colour? Ah, I'll let you pick something out. I'm going to fetch something to eat. Do not try to escape, though, for I will be just outside. When I return, we'll see to your wounds...and after we've eaten, I will fix your hair!"
Myth leaves the cave, a knife in each hand.
KeeperofVilya
Banned
Registered: 5/7/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/11/2003 at 02:09 AM
As Anda fell asleep next to Elnineth, Eldaline quietly slipped out of the room. Wandering down the winding halls her mind searched over the events of the last few days. So much had happened... so much that she did not understand and so much too that she wanted to forget. Her mind was troubled, her heart heavy, and her body craved sleep, yet she could not sleep. She wandered aimlessly till she came to the study hall where she and her father had met many times with Lord Elrond. As Eldaline stood there memories flooded her mind. She saw herself, her father, and Lord Elrond seated at the table. She saw the fear once again in her father's eyes and the concern on Elrond's face as they disscussed the problem of the orcs roaming through the lands buring and destroying. Elrond had summoned Vanathar, her father to decide what was to be done. Vanathar agreed that he would return to his home in Mirkwood and raise the forces. He was to return to Rivendell when the moon was full and report to Elrond. Eldaline looked out the window into the sky and saw the moon full and bright glowing in the dark sky. "I am here father... and you are not..." she whispered softly as she stood there.
"Eldaline..."
She turned to see Elrond standing int eh doorway.
"My Lord..." she said turning as he walked in.
Motioning to the table Elrond sat and Eldaline joined him.
"I was greatly surprised to find you and not your father riding into Imladris... and even more surprised to see you in the company of Andaariel and Elnineth. What happened Eldaline ?"
Eldaline looked up at Elrond, saddness in her eyes.
"We were attacked by orcs my Lord... our village was burned. Everyone was destroyed except myself for I managed by the blessing of the Valar to escape. The last thing father said to me was that if anything happened to him.... that I was to come here and speak with you, and let you know of his fate."
Eldaline looked at Elrond and saw deep sorrow and concern written on his face. "Vanathar's loss is a terrible one indeed for he was one of my most trusted advisors... Now who will we turn to?"
"My Lord...." said Eldaline softly.
Lord Elrond put a hand on her shoulder. "Tell me of how you came to find the halfling and those in her company.
Eldaline told of the night of her escape and how she chanced upon the company. She told of their weary travels and of the attack upon her and Brago.
"I am greatly worried about him, and I blame myself... If I had but been more watchful, been quicker, he would have been saved.... But now in my heart I fear he is dead... because of me.."
"Nay my child, it is not for you to bear the blame. Brago is still alive... you need not fear that now. But tell me of Elnineth, and what you know of her."
Eldaline began with what she knew of the hobbit and what Anda and the others had told her. "There has been a definite change in her... and it has greatly troubled my heart, there is a shadow hanging over her my Lord, I can feel it. Something has taken hold of her.. it is the only thing that can explaine why...."
"Why what?" Elrond asked.
"Why she attacked me. She was not herslf Elrond, she seemed frightened scared, as if she saw somthing else, not me coming towards her. Since that night she has not spoken till we arrived here. She clings to Anda like she will die if she be seperated, and avoids me as if she fears me..."
Elrond's face grew troubled as he heard what Eldaline said.
"Is there any more that you can tell me Eldaline, anything else ?"
"No my Lord, that is all that I know..."
Elrond sighed and nodded. After a few more minutes of talk he stood placing a hand on Eldaline's shoulders. "You have been through much already yet I fear there is more to come... You have a path laid before you Eldaline, the same one that was laid before your father. Wherever it may lead you I cannot say, but I can say this - great things will come from you dear child..."
Walking towards the door Elrond turned and looked at Eldaline still sitting at the table.
"Take some rest my child... find your strength and rest your heart."
Sometime later Eldaline lay in her bed, her mind pondering over the words Elrond had said as she drifted off into the dream world of the elves.
____________________ Certified Pervy Elf Fancier, Lucius Malfoy and Prof Snape Fan, Proud Member of the Europe Crew, Middle Earth Fanatic, All Around Nut and Weirdo, Resident Dierty Girl, And Proud of it ! !
Happy_Hobbit
Huggable Hobbit
Registered: 5/21/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/12/2003 at 01:36 AM
Elnineth crept away from the sleeping Andaariel, thinking she would hide so her 'sister' could come find her when she woke. She was walking down the corridor leading to the great library, when she heard familiar voices coming from a side room, curious Elnineth crept closer, hugging the wall so she could not be seen through the open door.
***"There has been a definite change in her... and it has greatly troubled my heart, there is a shadow hanging over her my Lord, I can feel it. Something has taken hold of her.. it is the only thing that can explaine why...."
"Why what?" Elrond asked.
"Why she attacked me. She was not herslf Elrond, she seemed frightened scared, as if she saw somthing else, not me coming towards her.***
Elnineth feel the sting of bitter tears, she is afraid now, afraid that Daddy Elrond would be angry with her, stumbling she runs past the door and down the corridor.
She opens the Library door an runs inside, hiding behind a great chair. Elrond spots the small shadow as she passes the door realising it must be Elmineth , his heart is troubled, he will go to her but first he offers words of comfort to Eldaline.
***"You have been through much already yet I fear there
is more to come... You have a path laid before you Eldaline, the same one that was laid before your father. Wherever it may lead you I cannot say, but I can say this - great things will come from you dear child..."***
Turning he bids her take some rest then heads for the great Library in search of a frightened child. As Elrond stepped into the Library his sharp elven ears discern the small sobs of distressed coming from behind his favourite chair, not wanting to frighten Elnineth he walks past the chair and over to one of the shelves, moving his fingers along the books his hand comes to rest on a small leather bound one.
Carefully he lifts it down saying in a clear voice,
"Ahh this is the one I wonder if Elnineth would like to read this with me?" he waits knowing that Elnineth will be hard pressed to resist hearing a story, She always had a passion for the written word and for learning new and exciting things.
Carefully he moves over to his chair, deliberately avoiding seeing Elnineth crouched beside it. He settles the book on his lap and gently opens the cover. He does not get to turn the page before a certain little Hobbit/maair is sitting on his lap wide eyes staring at the small white star upon the bright tan leather cover.
Elrond clears his throat and smiling gently asks
"Comfortable?" Elnineth nods, then with small trembling hands she opens the book. Her face turns form expectant delight to dissappointment as she finds the first then the second pages are blank.
Elrond smiles and turns the next few pages, here Elronds own handwriting begins. Elnineth starts to read.
***Nilleniel brought her to me, she was small, a mere babe, she was so cold and sick at the very last moments of life, "Save her" Nilleniel pleaded. I looked down at her, with shock. I saw she was marked by Saurons hand, I was torn then torn between saving her and letting her go but as I looked the light of the moon fell upon her and a small star blazed upon her brow. She was blessed by the Valar and I would forever hold her special to me. . . ***
"Who is she? Elnineths small voice asked turning to look straight into Elronds blue eyes.
"You can't guess?" asked Elrond raising an eyebrow, Elnineth shook her head and giggled, Always she loved it when Elrond would lift his eyebrow in mock surprise or indignation.
"Why my dear child it is your story,"
Elnineth greatly surprised almost fell from Elronds lap, but his strong arm saved her and smiling gently he held her close and kissed the curls upon her head."
"You are writing about me?" Elnineth's smile grew wide and her whole face lit with joy.
"Yes Elrond replied this is your story.
"But why are there blank pages?" Elnineth asked
"Why? because as yet I do not know those parts."
Elnineth frowned then nodding she turned back to the front of the book.
Slowly Elnineth began to talk, telling of her mother Estella and her flight from the Shire, she told of her own birth in Tom Bombadils house and of their day in the strawberry field. She told Elrond many things but not who her father was, slowly her story came to a halt.
Her face was now grey and fearful, "I . . . "she faltered
"I have something to tell you," tears began to trickle down her face her whole body shook with the immensity of the story she was about to tell.
"I killed an Elf." A small gasp escaped from Elrond's lips for a moment his mind raced but he soon had control of his thoughts once more. Gently he pressed Elnineth to tell him more.
"His name was Mantalath, he was my friend, we were taken to Saurons chamber," Elnineth unable to stop now told of the horror of Mantalath's torture and how when he was suffering pain with no hope of release she had held him showing him a vision of the undying lands and how that had finally allowed
his spirit to leave Mordor.She was ditraught now in a tumoil of sadness and guilt
"I killed him" she sobbed "I killed Mantalath,"
Tears ran freely down Elronds face, he had known of Sauron's cruelty and the loss of ones kindered hurt him deeply but these tears were for the small child who had saved Mantalath from eternal torment and yet had borne the pain and guilt of his death for fifteen long years.
Slowly Elrond explained to Elnineth, he told her of the Valar of the undying lands and of the halls of Mandos until finally she too understood the very special nature of what she had done all those years ago.
"There is another you must tell Elrond counselled her, another who held Mantalath dear, his brother Beleg Strongbow.
Elnineth grew pale then sighed and nodded,
"Yes Elrond . . . I know." she whispered.
____________________ Gil-galad berio i rad padathach. (origional by dreamdancer)
Vanalosswen
Council Member
Registered: 11/20/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/12/2003 at 11:06 AM
Vana stumbled along, trying desperately to keep up with Myth. She forced her mind to focus on breathing and walking. She was so focused on breathing that when Myth stopped Vana was not aware of it until she ran headlong into Myth's strong body. Caught off guard, she bounced off and sprawled on the ground, the collar biting into her throat. She quickly got to her feet, wanting to continue breathing. She looked up as Myth asked, "Poor little elf...are you tired?", reaching out to pet Vana's long, tangled blonde hair. She pulls her hand back with an expression of mild disgust. "You need a bath, darling. And what's this? You're bleeding. I had no idea you were injured! Surely this isn't from before...I thought elves healed quickly."
Vana looks down. The gash on her leg has indeed reopened, which surprises her. It must have been worse then she had thought. She is also covered in various bumps,bruises and scratches. She remembered each of the briars that she had almost fallen into, the rocks she had stubbed her toes on, and all the times she had nearly fallen. When Vana had stumbled, the leash would tug her back upright, and she was forced to continue on.
"Come on then," Myth sighs as if greatly inconvenienced. "We are almost there."
"Where are we going?" Vana asked, her voice husky from disuse. She had not spoken since the incident on the battlefield.
Myth bent over and picked up Vana in her strong arms. Vana barely resisted a shudder of horror as she is placed over the broad shoulder as easily as if she was a sack of potatoes. "Home. At least, my temporary home. I never stay put long."
"Why not?" Vana asked, rubbing her scarred neck under the collar.
Myth laughed quietly. "I was raised never to get too comfortable in any given place. It seems the other Uruk-Hai are forever getting into trouble, so unless we are back with the White man, or in Mordor," Vana gasped. 'Mordor!' she thought with a shudder "we must move on. Besides, I feel it is my duty to share my beauty with all of Middle-Earth." Vana was glad that Myth could not see her face right then. 'Yes,' she thought, 'for an orc, she is beautiful, but compared to the most homely of elves that I grew up with..' she left that thought unfinished. Mythorwen, pleased to be talking about herself, continued. "I travel more than my kin. They seem only to go from place to place when they have a mission or a battle. I don't have the same rules that they do. I come and go as I please. I'm always looking for new pets, and once I get them I must leave or I risk having their--what is that word--friends? Yes, friends." Vana shook her head silently, suddenly feeling pity for the orc. 'She never had any friends?' she wondered. "Their friends try to rescue them. I did well with you though. I saw you arrive in Bree. I'd been watching that odd little creature again. It's funny in a way. I have no interest of having her as my own, but I keep meeting up with her. Like we are fated to always have our paths cross and uncross. Elnineth, she is called." Vana's light eyebrows rose in silent amazement. 'I find out more and more about that little hobbit everyday.' she thought wryly, remembering the incident with the burn.
Mythorwen continued to hike, seemingly not tired at all from carrying the elf. "I don't see what the fuss is, either," she says haughtily. "She is not more beautiful than I." Vana rolled her eyes silently. " Yet, whenever I speak of her, such a big deal is made. I was telling my fellow Uruks that I'd found my next pet. I'd been outside that cottage. Watching. Waiting. Everytime the door opened, I was ready. I was travelling with orcs," she spit out the word 'orcs' with obvious distaste. "They managed to be slaughtered before I had a chance. I had to back away for then. That Strongbow was on his guard, and I saw no reason for me to ruin my new vest by getting blood all over it." Vana silently marveled at that statement. " You all moved out then, and I returned later. I told all of my kin about you." Vana wondered silently, 'what did you tell them?' "About how I was tracking you. I am so much superior to them in tracking things. All the White man wanted to hear about, though, was that halfling. Where she
was, where she might be going."
Myth rolled her eyes and walked between some trees. Twisting her hurting body to its limit, Vana saw a cave entrance ahead. Myth made straight for it and entered. Vana squeezed her eyes shut, remembering what orc holes normally looked, and smelled like. She felt the sunlight stop, and she wondered where the smell was. She smelled nothing but the smell of the woods after a good rain. Carefully she opened her eyes and gasped with wonder at the beauty.
"You did all this?" Vana breathed, taking it all in.
"Do you like it, my pet?" Myth asks, greatly pleased that Vana was in awe. "I hoped you would." Vana looked sharply at the creature as she wondered, 'She cares if I like the place or not? What is going on?'
Mythorwen sets Vana gently on the ground, locking the leash around a boulder, and tugging it to be sure it was secure. Vana watched Myth then, this mammoth yet feminine creature, getting the fire burning again. She goes outside for more wood, and Vana is shocked to see her collecting only dead or fallen branches. She knew that normally orcs never hestiated to cut down a beautiful tree.
"You only use wood that has fallen?" she asked when Myth returns inside.
"Of course!" Mythorwen exclaimed, "Why would I ruin a perfectly lovely tree just to warm your bath?" Vana's jaw almost dropped. 'That sounds like elf reasoning.' she thought.
Vana watched and listened to Myth as the orc gathered water and poured it into the basin. While Myth is so occupied, Vana took the chance to slip off her bag, which still rested on her hip, and lay it on the ground beside piles of clothes. She wondered how the Lembas inside had faired. Suddenly, Myth is beside her, removing the collar. Vana rubbed her neck carefully, feeling the scars from the collar and the whip. Myth picked her up and, as Vana was wondering what her captor was doing, dunked her into the basin. Vana barely had a chance to catch her breath before she went under again and again. Finally Vana manages to stay up long enough to yell "Stop! You'll drown me!"
Myth then sets to washing Vana's hair, somewhat roughly. Vana closed her eyes as the rough hands ran through her wet hair. She winced several times in pain as Myth yanked this way and that. Finally she stops with her hair and grabs a washcloth. She scrubbed behind Vana's sensitive elf ears. Vana covered her eyes, wondering how much hearing would be left to her when the orc was finished. When it came to the point where Vana nearly lost control of her tears, the orc stopped. "Wash yourself and get rid of those awful dirty clothes. I have new ones for you!" said Myth, standing and leaving Vana alone. Vana carefully and sadly removed her grey cloak and hunting leathers. She remembered all the hunts and adventures she had been on in these clothes. She sighed and quietly set them outside the basin. She grabbed the washcloth that Myth had used and carefully scrubbed all the dirt and sweat off her slim body. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Myth searching through piles of clothing on the boulders. Vana finished,
then hunched deeper into the tub, wondering how she was to get dry. Myth answered that question when she tossed a length of soft fabric to Vana to dry off with.
Gently, Mythorwen asked, "Do you have a favourite colour? Ah, I'll let you pick something out. I'm going to fetch something to eat. Do not try to escape, though, for I will be just outside. When I return, we'll see to your wounds...and after we've eaten, I will fix your hair!"
Vana watched as Myth left the cave, a knife in each hand. Only after Vana could not see her anymore did she get out of the basin, wrapping the cloth quickly around her slim figure. She stood for a long moment on the stone floor, trying to understand this orc. Shaking her head, Vana moved to the stacks of clothes. Tucking the edge of the cloth in, she bent to examine the clothes. She held up a silver dress with a gasp of amazment. "These clothes are so beautiful!" she exclaimed softly. As she went through the clothes, her mind was working quickly, trying to understand her new 'master.' "She loves beauty, hates cutting down trees," she murmured to herself as she tried on a blue dress. "If I did not know better, I'd swear she was an elf in disguise. But why does she capture people? And why did she pick me?" She decided on the silver dress that she had first seen. Dropping the cloth to the ground, she swiftly pulled the dress on, nearly crying out in pain as the material rubbed her ears. Once it was on, she had a look at herself in a mirror on the wall. The dress fit like it was made for her. She bent and put the matching slippers on her long bruised feet. Glancing around carefully, she picked up her Lorien cloak and rolled it up and stuck it in her bag, hoping to keep it safe.
After doing so, Vana was mildly bored, for Myth had not yet returned. She sat on the rock that the chain/leash was wrapped around and propped her chin in her hands. To be honest, she felt better now than she had in a long time. It had been about two weeks since she was last able to wash adventure dirt and sweat off her body and feel royal for a time. She thought about many things, none of them pertaining to the quest she had been on, except one swift thought, 'What is she going to do to you? Will she release you, keep you forever, or kill you?' Vana's chin stuck out stubbornly as she replied mentally, 'No matter what happens, I will not beg or plead, even if it is for my life. I will not disgrace my last moments whining like a kicked puppy.' And with that thought, her mind turned to more pleasent memories.
____________________ 'Take the wave now and know that you're free. Turn your back on the land, face the Sea. Face the wind now, so wild and so strong. When you think of me, wave to me and send me a song.'
"Were you no one, were you a serf off the streets, still, you are my friend and that is of ultimate value to me."
--Legolas, Exile
Andaariel
CoE Party Planning Admin & Proud Mommy
Registered: 11/13/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/12/2003 at 08:45 PM
"Ahh, I see you're still here," Mythorwen says, reentering the cave. A deer is thrown over her shoulder and two plump rabbits are in one hand. She shatters Vana's memories around her. Setting the meat on the ground, Myth goes over to her pet and seats herself beside her.
"First things first," she says as if talking to a child, "we have to take a look at your injuries. As she takes a leather satchel from behind a boulder, she squeals as if in delight. "You chose the silver dress! That pleases me! I was hoping that would be your choice! It goes so nicely with your eyes! Everyone is sure to be jealous of me now...you have such beauty!"
Mythorwen takes out various healing tools--a needle and thread, various plants, small phials filled with strange liquids. "I got that dress when following a small party travelling through Mirkwood. It was meant for an elven princess. I think that's just adorable...elves making little societies for themselves, some even being called royalty."
Myth first inspects Vana with a gentility the captive would not have expected. She hmms and sighs as she looks at the wounds. "That iron collar will not do, it's hurting your neck." Vana tries not to laugh...the collar itself wasn't bad, it was all the yanking that had caused the bruising and chafing.
A phial is opened, and the smell of lavendar fills the air. "I added flowers to this one,"Myth explains,"No sense in smelling awful while you heal!"
With a small piece of fabric-the same soft material that Vana had dried off with-Myth applies some of the salve to Vana's neck. "What on earth happened to your ears?!" Myth cries. "They're practically raw! Oh poor thing. I hope you haven't some strange skin disease!" Again, Vana suppresses the urge to laugh. This creature had no idea that it was the rough washing that had hurt her ears. After the ears are taken care of, Mythorwen lifts the delicate silver dress to reveal the scratches and the gash. She chews some plant in her mouth a moment and then sprinkles it onto the gash.
"That will sting some," Myth warns. "Athelas helps much, but isn't exactly sweet to feel in an open wound." She gets the needle and thread. "I'm afraid I will have to close that gash myself."
"No!" Vanalosswen protests. "Don't!" She cannot imagine having her wound stitched by Mythorwen. Sometimes she was gentle, and other times she was not. Which would she be when using her needle? "It is better already," Vana says, trying to persuade Myth. "It is no longer bleeding."
Mythorwen narrows her amber eyes. "You are right. It is not." She thinks a moment, then returns the needle and thread to the satchel, and gets out another phial. She applies this to the scratches. After putting away the healing satchel, Myth lifts Vana and sets her on the mound of pillows. She musses up Vana's hair, smiling to herself. She then goes to prepare their meal.
She sets the deer on a spit and begins to roast it. It was, in fact, only a fawn. Then, in the entrance of the cave, she cleans the rabbits, and sets them in a pot with water and herbs.
"While that is cooking, darling," Myth coos, "I will do something with that hair of yours!"
Myth brushes out Vana's damp hair, not exactly being careful, but inflicting no pain either. Then, she gets out ribbon, and ties Vanalosswen's hair up into two ponytails on either side of her head, much like if they were dog's ears. She smiles and pats Vana on the head. "Lovely!" she says simply.
She then ties Vana's hands together, and attaches the cord to a boulder. Vana watches in horror, as Myth picks up her bag.
"Let me see, what have we here?" Myth asks no one in particular as she begins to rummage through Vana's personal belongings. "Ugh...you kept this?" she asks, disgusted, as she pulls out the filthy cloak. "It must mean something to you. It's starting to smell. If you wanted to keep it, you should have hung it when you were finished washing. It would have dried that way." Vana looks at her cloak with longing, not knowing what the Uruk-woman planned to do with it. To her surprise, Mythorwen hangs it on a hooked piece of rock by the door. Then, she continues her search.
"Hmm, you haven't much, have you?" she asks. She pulls out a blue stone and looks at it closely. "Pretty," she states, hanging it around her neck. It is then she finds the lembas. "Oooh! I LOVE this stuff!" she exclaims, dropping the bag to the floor, forgotten. "We can have this tonight. I have tried to make it myself, but I can't quite get it right."
She adds some things to the stew...a diced carrot, some chopped potatoes...and stirs it. The aroma of it all makes Vana's mouth water. Vana wonders what she is going to get to eat while her 'master' dines on the stew and deer meat, and her lembas.
Mythorwen empties the basin with very little effort, and flips it over to serve as a table. She sets it with two beautiful plates, two goblets made of gold, and silver cutlery. A bottle filled of wine is placed in the middle, which she opens and pours. She dishes out the stew and places the lembas beside each plate. All the while she sings to herself. Vana thinks it is bits and pieces of an Elvish song.
Myth leads Vana to the table and seats her. "Go on, eat," Myth instructs her. "It might be difficult with your hands bound, but it is either that or your collar." Seeing Vana does not protest, she nods. "Good."
Mythorwen seats herself at the makeshift table, places a small bit of fabric in her lap and smiles, appreciating the sight and scent of the meal. She then picks up the bowl and begins to slurp her stew. Vana just stares. Myth cleans out the bowl, and wipes it with the lembas, then eats the lembas, chewing with her mouth partially open. She drinks some wine, some of it dribbles down her chin, but she daintily catches it with the bit of cloth, dabbing each corner of her mouth.
She goes to the fire and checks the deer. Finding it ready to eat, she rips a leg off of it, and plunks it down on the table beside Vana's bowl.
"I gave you the biggest one," she tells Vana with a wink. She rips off another leg and begins to eat it as someone would a chicken wing. "What's the matter with you?" she asks Vana. "Aren't you hungry?"
Vanalosswen
Council Member
Registered: 11/20/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/13/2003 at 02:06 AM
Vana looked at the meat in front of her, wondering how she was supposed to eat with her bound hands. She shrugged and lifted her bound hands to the table and grabbed the meat. The juices squeezed out and ran over her hands. She leaned forward and grabbed the meat in her strong white teeth, ripped off a piece and set the meat back on the plate. Chewing carefully, she let her senses tell her how it tasted. She sighed and took another bite. It was delicious. Looking around the small table, she reached for a piece of lembas, barely missing it. She gritted her teeth and stretched a little farther, barely catching the edge of it with her fingertips. She managed to get it to her plate and nibbled on it.
Vana's blue eyes met the amber eyes of her 'master' and said softly, "It's very good, thank you."
Involuntarily, her eyes flew to her bag, still on the ground. She was relieved that her greatest treasure was hidden in a secret pocket under the lembas. She glanced at the stone on Myth's neck, and then looked quickly away. That stone had been a gift from a friend and had no power except in the friendship it represented. She shuddered to think what would happen if Myth got her hands on her treasure.
She picked up the goblet and took a swallow, running the red liquid over her tongue. She recognized the taste from somewhere, but couldn't place it. She looked carefully at the bottle and saw, to her surprise, that it was Elven wine. 'That's where I recognized it from.' she thought, taking another drink. Clumsily, she picked up her spoon after wiping her hands on a cloth close by. She began to eat the soup that was in front of her. Finally, she finished her meal. Myth had been finished for some time and had been watching her in silent amusement. Vana's ears turned slightly pink from embarassment as she wiped her mouth carefully.
Vana looked down at the silver dress, remembering what Myth had said. 'This was made for the elven princess of Mirkwood.' she thought in wonder. 'This dress was made for me. When?' Smiling silently, she stood carefully, not wanting to rip the dress or spill something on it. She picked up her dishes and began to carry them to a wash place out of force of habit.
____________________ 'Take the wave now and know that you're free. Turn your back on the land, face the Sea. Face the wind now, so wild and so strong. When you think of me, wave to me and send me a song.'
"Were you no one, were you a serf off the streets, still, you are my friend and that is of ultimate value to me."
--Legolas, Exile
Beleg_Strongbow
Master marksman, and ancestor to that Greenleaf kid
Registered: 12/6/2002 Status: Offline
posted on 1/13/2003 at 06:34 AM
His elven eyes spy fifteen of the beautiful Mearas, their coats gleaming the light; carried by powerful legs and hooves, their manes and tails wave like mighty banners in their rushing self-made wind. He also sees the Lady Elf Vanalosswen, holding her own against orcs. But of her he sees no more...he awaits the Mearas as they thunder near, and notices the Uruk-hai's paralyzed reaction in seeing such majestic beasts threaten their area.
The ground vibrates as they come within yards of him and the stunned Uruk-hai. His heart swells with their presence--they are mighty and fearless...
....and for a short moment he remembers...he remembers riding wild stallions bareback in his youth, his hair flowing with their manes, laughing as he lifts his hands and lets his fingers dance upon the open air...and hearing laughter similar to his own...
"You are as wild as a Meara, brother!"
Brother....
His memories are cut short. Alagos is one of the lead horses, and she leads the other horses to divide, one group going to the left and the other to the right, surrounding the dumbfounded Uruks and steering clear of Bragolath. He notices one of Mearas, an especially proud stallion, carries a small Elven maiden. She does not acknowledge him physically, but in senses as only Elves can. He runs, scoops up Belthronding, and easily leaps upon Alagos's back, letting her carry him and include him within the circle the Mearas are forming. He slashes a bold Uruk across the throat that dared to stop him....he blinks....he sees memories...
Much younger, he does the same to a horrid orc, slashing him across the throat with Belthronding. He sees a copy of himself, it seems, doing the same upon his own horse with his own bladed bow...calling to him to watch himself as arrows begin to fly at them...they are at war, somewhere, someplace...
The Mearas stop as they have completed a full circle around the Uruk-hai, herding them in one concentrated knot, and leaving Bragolath out, out of the circle and out of the way of hard hooves and blades. The Strongbow grasps a handful of Alagos's mane, letting her carry him, acting only as a spectator of an amazing ceremony, dance, or ritual that was soon to take place.
...he was out upon the naked plains, watching the mighty horses stream through the grasses as one animal, feeling the ground vibrate from their hooves and hearing their neighs float upon the winds. He looks over to the one that looks like him, who stands and is dressed regally, not in march-warden clothes that he has chosen to don, as he is now a warden of the forests of the Lord Thingol of Doriath.
He stands, his eyes meeting the regally dressed one, and embraces him. The regal one is to leave, for he has a domain of his own...and he leaves to rule.
"But is fares near to Angband, too near for my comfort."
"I go to rule. My wife waits for me..."
"Then give her my best. My love to you."
"And my love to you, brother."
Tamed horses approach, bearing other regally dressed elves in the same attire. They arrive to escort the regal one to his new domain. "My Lord Manthalath. We await your arrival."
The regal one and the marchwarden bow to one another. The regal one climbs upon his horse and leaves...
The Strongbow feels himself being lifted upwards, and realized that Alagos has reared upon her hindlegs, kicking her front legs into the air and whinnying loudly. The other Mearas join her... there is a circle of mighty horses pawing at the air, their whinnies colliding to create a piercing, feaful sound in the hearts of those that fear them. The Uruk-hai press together, looking around fearfully....and as a cornered animal will attack, they explode in all directions, charging madly at the Mearas.
____________________ "Pray, v.: To ask that the laws of the universe be annulled on behalf of a single petitioner confessedly unworthy." - Ambrose Bierce
"A poem is never finished, only abandoned."
- Paul Valery
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Gil-galad berio i rad padathach. 
(origional by dreamdancer) 
