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Maralyn_Imladiel
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Post The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 06, 2007 07:18
[ OOC located here ]

Confound this snow! Aerlinniel raised one gloved hand in front of her eyes in an attempt to shield herself from the fury of the wind. Already her lashes and brows had become encrusted with snow and ice, rendering sight difficult–Elven though she was. Why, oh why had she elected to leave her comfortable establishment in Eryn Lasgalen for this?

The elleth stopped walking long enough to shoot a glance over her shoulder. If there was any reason to be glad for the storm, it was because it would delay the movements of any orcs that happened to be following them. She had not noticed anything peculiar since entering the regions of the Misty Mountains, but her escorts seemed to think otherwise. There were many tales of travellers being ambushed by orcs in these areas, though Aerlinniel had not truly dwelt on them until recently. If there are orcs nearby, they’ll probably be faring even worse than we are, she thought with some small satisfaction.

A gust of wind tore her from her thoughts. She looked ahead for any sign of the bundled up figures that were her escorts. Ah! There they were, though they were farther up the path than Aerlinniel would like. Gathering up her skirts–which, by now, had become stiff with snow and ice--ran to catch up with them, still shielding her face from the cutting wind. If they were sensible, they would find shelter and stay there until the storm passed. The message they were bearing to Rivendell could wait. No amount of information could be so important as to risk the lives of three elves...or could it?

-------

Aeregwathion must have made a strange sight at that moment, sitting atop a boulder with his eyes closed. But then, he was too deep in the forest for anyone to see him, and even if they had, it would not have made any difference. It was no secret that the tall, mysterious ellon did not care what others thought, or spoke, or did. Most inhabitants of the valley had given up trying to converse with him altogether, for it was like trying to speak to a stone wall.

A squirrel chattered from a tree limb nearby, but Aeregwathion was too preoccupied with his thoughts to notice. He was weary; more weary than he had been in a long time. Not physically–that could be easily fixed with a good rest–but mentally. He was weary of thinking, of searching his mind for answers. But what answers could be derived, after all? What hope was there for Imladris? Now that Lord Elrond was gone, the valley seemed emptier than anyone could ever remember it being. There was a change in the air which nobody could identify, and uncomfortable rumors were spreading among the few elves that had decided to remain in the valley. Many were questioning their decision not to sail with the rest of their kin, but Aeregwathion was not one of them. He would stay in Middle-Earth as long as he needed to find—

His eyes snapped open as his thoughts were rudely interrupted at the sound of a twig snapping noisily behind the boulder where he now sat. Slowly he twisted his body around so that he could see who had made the noise, an expression of annoyance imprinted on his normally stolid features.

[Edited on 10/10/2007 by Maralyn_Imladiel]

[Edited on 10/23/2007 by Maralyn_Imladiel]
Celethor
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 06, 2007 08:43
Celethor frowned as he trudged through the snow. He had often walked the paths of the Misty Mountains, but he never remembered this particular pass being so difficult.

He sighed, "It must be because the Ring is no longer guarding the ways to Rivendell." His clothing was slightly frosted, but had been treated for this kind of weather and did not weigh him down at all. He glanced back at his companions and noticed one of them staggering behind, her skirts frozen and stiff.

"Why that fool wore skirts for travel I don't know. But I suppose I should find us shelter soon, or she will freeze to death or worse, get us all killed." He thought to himself. He motioned to the others that he was going on ahead. He tightened his cloak and pressed onward swiftly. Soon he was out of sight of the others. He spotted a cave before him that seemed to be good for shelter.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Celethor approached the cave warily, knowing that even with the fall of Sauron, orcs inhabited the mountains. He scanned the snow for tracks but saw none. But that didn't mean it was safe, for orcs of the mountains could be as crafty as he was. He pulled his bow out of its oiled case and strung it with the ease that only comes with practice. He pulled one of his arrows, fletched with the feather of a Great Eagle and made of the wood of the Greenleaf forest, and set it on his bow.

He made his way slowly into the cave, scanning the dim recesses of the cave for hidden foes. He saw nothing and was about to leave, thinking it safe for the night, when he saw a shadowy figure dart behind a crag.

A flash of foresight hit him then. Orcs in tunnels, coming up from the deeps. Fire, death, pain. Then the sight left him and he understood the danger. This would be no haven for the night. But he could not leave, not yet. His hatred wouldn't let him. He spotted another shape moving and swift as lightning shot an arrow at it. Although the target was hard to see, the arrow flew true and hit its mark. He walked up, retrieved his arrow and studied his victim. It was an orc alright, but it had strange tattoos that matched no tribe he had seen before. But there was little time to puzzle that out now.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
He pulled his sword from its sheathe and beheaded the creature, wrapping it with coarse cloth and affixing it to his belt. It was all the proof he needed to make the others wary so they would not be ambushed. He made his way silently back to the others, leaving not a trace at his coming.




((Yay first post. Can't wait for more! And feel free to criticize my sloppy paragraphs, I tend to just run on))



[Edited on 6/10/2007 by Celethor]
ElfmaidenofLorien
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 06, 2007 11:37
Aewennen Inglorion wandered down the path, making her way towards Imladris. Imladris had been her home for many long years, during the time when her brother still resided here, Gildor.

She turned and patted Aranon, her only companion during her travels throughout Middle earth.
"At least we have not had any trouble thus far." Aewennen, or Wen, said.

She had been walking, but since they were so close and she was so impatient, she decided to ride the rest of the way.
She quickly mounted, her green skirt flowing across Aranon's back.

"Coem Aranon, let's hurry." Wen whispered. Aranon took off at the gallop down the road to Imladris.
She had received a letter a few days back about some trouble. She hadn't been told exactly what the trouble was but she intended to find out.
-----------
Aewennen dismounted and handed Aranon to the nearest stable boy. She smirked when she decided to find her hermit of a friend, Aeregwaithion. She had not seen him since she had left Imladris to travel.

"I hope he is a little more talkative than before." Aewennen whispered with a smile.

She made her way through the forest, she knew every place in this forest as she had made it her home for most of her life in the valley.
Soon she saw the back of Aeregwaithion. She smiled and made her way over, but she snapped a twig and let out a sigh.

"Too bad I gave myself away, I was planning on an ambush." Aewennen said. Then she smiled when she saw Aeregwaithion's annoyance.

"I'm glad to see you too. You've grown a lot since I saw you last, but I suppose you're still a hermit. I hope you'll spare a couple words for me, Aeregwaithion." Aewennen said. Then she lost her smile as she got down to business.

"What have I been called here for? What is the trouble they mentioned in the message?" She asked.

(I hope it's okay that Aewennen knows Aeregwaithion, but I thought since she's lived in Rivendell for a long time she might know him. If it doesn't work I can change it.)
'Not even the gods above can separate the two of us, no nothing can come between you and I.'
minstral_of_the_dawn
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 06, 2007 02:24
Alagos drifted quietly through the snow-laden paths of Rivendell. His warm breath froze on the cold winter air. He drew his cloak about him as if to ward off the cold just a little bit more. He wasn't troubled by it thought.

Everything seemed to be colder with the coming of man, and the leaving of the Lord Elrond and Lady Galadriel. Everything seemed to have dimmed and become as grey and dreary as the threat of snow in spring time. Alagos sighed quietly to himself, he was saddened; he could still hear the gulls calling from the west. But he knew that he would not-could not answer them. No.

Alagos' feet wandered down the paths un-erringly. He wandered through the gardens and through the paths coming into and amidst the forest. He did not stop there. Alagos brushed his golden hair out of his green eyes. They were filled with many thoughts that he had no way of expressing to anyone.

He had no love, he had no companions as the few others had, who had remained. His own possessions in the material sense were very few as well. He had limited himself to his spear and a few small books, and one or two intrisic items of jewlery-a ring and a pendant-but nothing more.

Alagos had little desire for anything else. It was during these wanderings that he came across a clearning, and in it were two elves. One was seated off on a stone, Alagos recognized him by face but not by name. He had often seen him around Rivendell. Alagos noticed the other elf was a fair lady on horseback. He watched the two for a moment. He remembered her also but again had had little conversation with her.

Alagos usually kept to himself except to go to the hall of fire. He dearly loved tales and songs of old. Alagos was about to turn about when he heard mention of trouble. He stopped to listen, curious and worried.
Maralyn_Imladiel
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 07, 2007 11:12
Aeregwathion felt his jaw muscles tense as the elleth spoke. It had been some years since he saw her last...what was her name? Ah yes, Aewennen. The way she carried on, one would think they were lifelong aquaintances, though in reality Aeregwathion had only spoken to her several times. In his opinion, she talked too much.

The ellon leapt down from the boulder with the litheness of a panther, snow crunching beneath his boots upon his landing. He faced Aewennen with an indifferent expression pasted onto his features, determined not to encourage her. The last thing he wanted was someone tagging along with him, pestering him with words when all he really wanted was peace and quiet.

"What have I been called here for? What is the trouble they mentioned in the message?"


This caught Aeregwathion off his guard, and for a few rare moments surprise flitted across his face. What message was she talking about? As far as he was concerned, no message had been sent. But that's just it, he thought, You haven't been concerned with anything. It would be the simplest thing in the world for the others to send out a message without you getting wind of it.

Regaining his composure, the ellon answered Aewennen, his voice deep and flat.

"I assure you I know nothing of a message being sent out. If there is any trouble in this valley, it has escaped my notice."

That's partly true, anyway. Although the elves in Imladris were becoming restless, Aeregwathion judged it was due to the change of weather. During Elrond's lordship, the weather had remained fairly pleasant all year round, and when it did snow, it was never more than an inch deep. Now that Imladris was fully exposed to the elements, the valley floor had become blanketed with snow overnight, and many were taking it badly.

As for Aeregwathion, who was he to become nervous over flakes of snow? He had experienced much strange weather in his lifetime, and he was almost certain that this, too, would pass, and spring would arrive as usual with its sunshine and flowers.
minstral_of_the_dawn
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 07, 2007 01:43
Alagos leaned back against the bole of a tree, 'trouble'? This sounded grave, but no message had arrived and yet should have? He pondered this for a moment, he had heard that messengers from Mikwood would be coming, but he did not know their message. And he had heard none of their arrival. What message could they bear that was so important? He could think of little, most of the orcs had been defeated during the battle at the end of the third age. Gondor was restored, as most of the lands of men were. Harad was still a rouge area but they had not been so much trouble.

Alagos wondered what they had missed. Was their still some dark evil lingering in the deapths of the world? Perhaps one of the ancient demons had awakened. A Balrog-perhaps. Alagos shivered at the thought of that. He had seen them and fought them and he had no desire to go near them ever again!

Alagos turned to listen but he guessed that little else would be said. But he wanted to find out. He would ask the young elleth for more information. He had a gut feeling that the message was extreamly important. Straightening he stepped out into the clearing.

"Well met, friends." He said calmly.
elendil2
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 08, 2007 05:06
Aerandir trudged along in the wake of Celethor. Where's Aerlinniel? he thought. Ah, yes, here she was, trudging along in those outrageous skirts that hampered her every movement.

"Aerlinniel! It would be a pleasure if you could accompany us," he said with a hint of sarcasm. He did not mean to anger her, but a bit of anger would help her keep up.

He noticed a swift movement from Celethor, up the road. The nocking and firing of an arrow! Within a moment he had his bow out, and an arrow nocked and at half draw. He ran up the road to Celethor. He could see the body of an orc with an arrow stuck in it lying near the front of the cave, and little movements in the shadows.

He quickly knelt and fired two arrows into the darkness, to encourage the cave's inhabitants to stay low. Apparently, judging from the sounds that emanated from the cave, one orc would move no more.

"Aerlinniel. There are orcs up here!" he yelled over his shoulder. "We must go around," he spoke to Celethor. "If we are to make it to Imladris with the message, we must bear the storm."

[Edited on 8/10/2007 by elendil2]

[Edited on 8/10/2007 by elendil2]
ElfmaidenofLorien
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 08, 2007 06:24
(just so you know, Aewennen is not young. She's was a follower of Finarfin when they returned to ME.)

Aewennen quickly stopped talking. She remembered how when she had spoken with Aeregwaithion before he hadn't liked it. "Forgive me, Aeregwaithion, I'm afraid sometimes I don't know when to stop speaking." Aewennen said with a slight smile.

Then she turned when she heard the voice beside her. "Mae govennen." Aewennen said with a bow of her head.

"I am Aewennen Inglorion, and I was just curious as to this message I received. I had been told there was something wrong, but they didn't explain any details. I thought to ask my old aqaitance, but I should have known better. He would not notice even if the weather became bitter." Aewennen said.

Then she looked around at the silvery branches laden with snow. The ice shimmered and it looked beautiful, but in a different way than it was before Elrond left.
"A cold beauty." Aewennen muttered.

Then her thoughts quickly shifted and her mind was back on the message.
"Well, if my friend cannot tell me I had better find someone who will. And I do hope this isn't just about the change in weather." Aewennen said as she rolled her eyes.

Then she turned and began making her way out of the forest. Her feet walked lightly on top of the snow, making a barely audible sound. Her long silver braid of hair blew in the cold wind, and Aewennen sighed as she looked around again.

"This place truly has changed, but I hope this change does not prove the end of this valley." Aewennen whispered. She began wondering if all the elves would leave, and she hoped they wouldn't. She didn't have any desire to leave, though staying also proved painful because she missed her older brother.

Aewennen shook her head. She didn't want to think about it anymore.
'Not even the gods above can separate the two of us, no nothing can come between you and I.'
Maralyn_Imladiel
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 08, 2007 08:14
"Aerlinniel! It would be a pleasure if you could accompany us,"


Aerlinniel curled her gloved fists into balls. As much as she wanted to retort to Aerandir's provocative remark, she knew it would only be a waste of energy. Besides, Aerandir had already gone further up the path. You've got to keep up with them if you don't want to fall behind, she thought, and immediately started hurrying in the direction her escorts had gone.

Suddenly Aerandir’s yell reached her ears, warning of orcs up ahead. The elleth stopped, fear and uncertainty building up inside her chest. If there were orcs nearby, what would she and her escorts do? Would they stay and fight, or would they find another way through the pass? Or perhaps we could turn back. Aerlinniel immediately dismissed this idea, since the message they were bearing was of the utmost importance and had to be delivered at all costs–orcs or no orcs. However, she almost wished they would turn back. The wind was cutting into her face like knives, and the cold was becoming almost unbearable. Who was it that had told her the passing would be easy? Ha! Whoever it was had obviously gotten their facts turned around.

She reached a hand under her cloak and touched the lute that was strung across her back. Good, it was still intact. Feeling her beloved instrument usually took away some of Aerlinniel’s anxiety, but now–as the storm raged and the threat of danger hung in the air–the elleth’s mind grew more troubled.

-------

Aeregwathion glanced the newcomer as he spoke. His face seemed somewhat familiar, although Aeregwathion couldn’t recall ever speaking to him. But then, he rarely spoke with anyone.

Now Aewennen was talking. She had not changed much since Aeregwathion had seen her last, that much was certain. He had lived in Harlindon then. Thinking of his birthplace brought a rush of memories to the ellon, though he could not–would not–dwell on them now.

Almost as soon as she had started talking, Aewennen left. This gave Aeregwathion the opportunity to study the other elf. Yes, he was familiar...he had often seen him lingering in the Hall of Fire, though he always seemed to be alone. Like Aeregwathion.

He decided he should say something. “We’ve not met; I am Aeregwathion, formerly of Harlindon.”
minstral_of_the_dawn
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 08, 2007 09:42
"I am Aewennen Inglorion, and I was just curious as to this message I received. I had been told there was something wrong, but they didn't explain any details. I thought to ask my old aqaitance, but I should have known better. He would not notice even if the weather became bitter." Aewennen said.


Alagos listened with concern, "The weater is un natural. I have seen many seasons but never have I seen so much snow in Imladris. I fear that the message you are waiting for has been delyaed by this weather. We can only hope itis just that, at least."

He watched her leave with a calm expression, though his mind was working furiously to descifer the meaning of the message. But without more information he didn't know what else he could do. He turned to the other elf as he spoke.

“We’ve not met; I am Aeregwathion, formerly of Harlindon.”


Alagos bowed his head respectfully, "I am Alagos. I have seen you around Rivendell before. It is good to meet with you, even if it is in such a manner. What do you know of this message? It has me worried, whispers have been going around of increased dangers in the mountain passes. I must wonder if this is the fault of the weather or of something else."
ElfmaidenofLorien
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 08, 2007 09:56
Aewennen soon found her way to the houses. She really wasn't sure where to go, or who was in charge anymore. Soon Aewennen sat down on some stairs and sighed.
Snow flakes began falling from the sky and landed on her nose.
Aewennen smiled and even chuckled softly, something she hadn't done for a while.

"I don't see how this weather could be bothering these elves. I have seen worse in the rest of the world." Aewennen commented to herself.

She really wasn't sure where to go from here. Who would she talk to? she didn't really care anymore. She was back home after many years of traveling and it felt nice. Her fair face soon became rosy from the chill wind.

"Perhaps I shall visit the Hall of Fire eventually." Aewennen whispered.

(I'm not sure who's in charge...are Elrond's sons still around?)
'Not even the gods above can separate the two of us, no nothing can come between you and I.'
elendil2
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 09, 2007 05:28
Aerandir slowly moved to the side of the entrance to the cave, beckoning Celethor and Aerlinniel to come with him. If there were any orcish archers in the cave, they would have to move into sword range.

He started to inch away from the mouth of the cave. They would have to go around. As soon as he was out of eyes reach, he turned and ran to the top of the cave. they would safer here than anywhere in the nearby vicinity.

He would keep watch. He fitted an arrow to his bow, and climbed a tree, and perched on a low branch. He took five arrows and stuck them, point first, into the branch within easy arm's reach.
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 09, 2007 07:49
(It seems my post might fit in...)

I am not made for the cold, Färynel Taurëiel thought bitterly as the keening wind pierced her to the core. Daughter of the forest indeed. She let out a wry laugh at the irony of the situation: she that loved the forest, hence her surname, traipsing through the mountains in the cold. Her breath came out in wispy spurts like smoke. Shivering, Färynel pulled her cloak tighter around her in a vain attempt at warmth, but it was like holding water in a sieve: if there was any warmth to be found, it was gone in an instant. The elf wet her cracked lips with her tongue, knowing the moisture was a temporary relief. There was a tiny container of bacon grease in her satchel for dry skin and lips, but Färynel had no wish to dig for it because of her numb fingers. How she wanted to be out of the mountains.

Beneath her, Brethil trembled also. The bay was accustomed to the milder climes of Eryn Lasgalen, and his coat had not grown in enough to suit him duly for the harsher weather. His hooves kicked up snow as he trudged westward along a rocky path. The pair had climbed up one side of a mountain and was now in the process of traveling along a narrow pass that began the descent down into the valley that housed Imladris. Now under the rule of Elrond’s sons Elladan and Elrohir, the place served as a haven for those who sought the solitude the valley offered.

The reason she sought Imladris was for enlightenment on a rumor. Threliach, her mentor, was one of the most prominent archers and an advisors of King Thranduil of Eryn Lasgalen. He had been told that orcs still roamed the ways between Eryn Lasgalen and Rohan, even down south as Minas Tirith. They had not all fallen when Mordor had fallen. Färynel remembered their leering faces well for she had fought them during the war. The horrible smell of them, that of rotting flesh, suddenly filled her senses.

Blood. The din of battle. The swarming masses of enemies, orcs and men alike. The Eye in the distance. The seeming hopelessness of the situation. The fear that pervaded over all. The commanding forms of Gandalf and Aragorn. The stench of sweating bodies. The oppressive heat. The silence before the storm. The feeling that the end was near.

A jolt startled Färynel out of her reverie. Brethil slid on a patch of ice and stumbled, nearly pitching Färynel out of the saddle. She grabbed tight to the horn of the saddle and leapt lightly off his back. She grabbed her staff from his back and beat the snow in front to make it easier for her horse to tread the path. As she walked, she retreated back into her thoughts.

There was no telling how many orcs were still around, but the thought of them filled her with dread and anger. She was a tracker and hunter, not a true warrior. Her weapon was a bow and dagger, not a sword or pike or halberd or axe. Färynel was slight and fair, had not the build of a man. Brethil was an elven horse, powerfully built that was true, but he was not a warhorse. While she could hold her own in battle, Färynel was not ready for such a thing to happen again. She was not bloodthirsty by nature.

As they made their way down the slope, the path turned and hugged the edge of the mountain, with a sheer drop on one side. One look over the edge showed a seemingly endless abyss below. Färynel took a deep breath and grabbed handholds with one hand and led Brethil with the other. Thus they continued until they began to reach leveler ground. Night descended in a fury of howling gales and blinding snow. Luckily, caves dotted the area, and Färynel found a small one that would fit her and Brethil. Relieved to be out the frigid air, she took some twigs from the pack on Brethil’s back and a flint and tinder from her satchel. Lighting a small fire, she let its warmth seep over and enter her. Shadows flickered on the walls and danced before her eyes. But she was content for the time being, anxiously awaiting fairer weather.

The sound of hoofbeats on the path outside the cave, of at least one rider, caused her to peer out of the cave, her cloak hood over her head, and cry out into the howling storm, “Who goes out there?” Her voice was lost in the wind, but Färynel thought she could discern a reply.

(And Elrond's sons were in charge of Imladris after he left.)

(Note: I am using Eryn Lasgalen in place of Mirkwood for that is the name of it after the war.)

[Edited on 10/9/2007 by Dinenlasse]
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Celethor
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 11, 2007 08:32
Celethor looked again at the others. Aerindir was keeping watch and waiting to see what would happen, and Aerlinniel was messing with something she had hidden on her person. He began to form a plan, for as Aerindir had surmised, he too was sure there were archers in the cave. He drew upon all his knowledge of cave and tunnel warfare, having mastered the strategems of the dwarves in ages past. He pulled his lower hood up and pulled the upper part down, covering his eyes. His ears peaked out of small holes in the hood, a cunning alteration that allowed full use of hearing. He motioned for Aerindir to cover his back, and he nocked another arrow to his bow.

He balanced the arrow with one hand as he pulled something out of his cloak with his other hand. It was a bit of the powder that Saruman had used in the fight of Helm's Deep. He had obtained it from Gimli the dwarf, after the Lord of the Glittering Caves found barrels of the stuff near the battle afterward. It was not enough powder to destroy the orcs, but it would make a bright flash to be sure. He would only have a moment to take down the archers.


He ran towards the cave, hearing the sound of the orc's breathing and the arrows shot and whistling by. He heard his companions breathe in sharply, tensed for the moment. Then he threw the powder, shot an arrow and heard the sound of metal striking rock. He heard the sparks fly and heard the slight sound of ignition. His plan was working, but failure was still possible. He quickly notched another arrow, using the orc's cries of dismay to guide his shots. He heard one orc crumple, an arrow in its gut. He shot again, and heard the orc stumble and fire a shot in reply. It was close now, so Celethor drew his hunting knife and pulled his hood back. Sight restored, he saw the orc, an arrow in its leg. He quickly slit its throat as it tried to nock another arrow. Two enemies had fallen in the space of a breath to his weapons, and he saw a few more corpses nearby. Aerindir was a good shot, to be sure. Celethor's ears perked as he heard the sounds of retreating footsteps. Anger guided his thoughts and he took off in pursuit.
Maralyn_Imladiel
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 12, 2007 07:59
"I am Alagos. I have seen you around Rivendell before. It is good to meet with you, even if it is in such a manner. What do you know of this message? It has me worried, whispers have been going around of increased dangers in the mountain passes. I must wonder if this is the fault of the weather or of something else."


Aeregwathion did not answer right away, for he was pondering the same thing. He had a feeling that something more was at work than merely Elrond’s absence, and, like Alagos, he was worried, though he would never confess to it.

“I...know nothing of a message,” he replied slowly, “But I have a vague feeling that there is something foul at work.” As he spoke, flakes of snow started to fall, floating and cavorting through the air like so many tiny dancers. Several of them landed on Aeregwathion’s lashes, and he brushed them away with a stroke of his hand. “We should be getting back to the houses,” he murmured, “There’s something about this place that doesn’t feel safe.”

-------

Aerlinniel threw herself down upon the snow as arrows whistled overhead, several missing her by inches. The screams and gurgles of dying orcs filled the air as Aerandir and Celethor’s bowstrings twanged with lightning speed. They were both excellent archers, and Aerlinniel was glad they had come along on the journey. Cautiously, she lifted her head. From where she lay, she could see that the snow had been stained black in several places where orcs had fallen, and more of the foul creatures could be heard from inside the cave. Aerandir had climbed up a tree and was firing arrows, but Celethor had mysteriously disappeared. Footprints were scattered all over the place, and it was difficult for Aerlinniel to distinguish which ones belonged to her escorts. Some tracker you are, she chided herself. She stood up, brushing snow off her garments. Not that it made any difference; she was soaked and chilled to the bone. Shivering, she checked to see if the pouch slung at her side was still dry. Inside was the message that they were bearing to Imladris, and their entire mission would be for nought if anything happened to it. Fortunately, it was still in good condition. After glancing around for orcs, Aerlinniel hastily made her way to the side of the cave, stopping beneath the tree where Aerandir was perched. “How long do you think they’ll put up a fight?” she shouted up to him. Orcs were a hardy race, to be sure, but certainly once these orcs saw that they were losing the fight they’d give up and retreat into their caves.

In the meantime, Celethor was still nowhere to be seen. I hope nothing has happened to him, Aerlinniel thought. The storm was still raging on, and the elleth was worried that if Celethor had strayed away, he would not be able to find his way back.

[Edited on 10/23/2007 by Maralyn_Imladiel]
Celethor
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on: October 12, 2007 08:33
Celethor delved deeper and deeper into the dark, trusting his ears when his eyes fooled him. He tracked the orcs swiftly, following their passage as one who had done this often before. He heard their cries ahead and turned the corner sharply. Into his view lept the sight of 3 orcs, one wounded in the arm (no doubt Aerindir's doing) and the other two dragging him while holding the torches. Celethor used the moment of surprise to take his enemies down swiftly, using his blade to sever the torches and then slaying the orcs in the dark.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Celethor made his way out of the cave, stained with blood. No doubt it would impair his camoflauge, but he did not worry about that now. He looked down and saw his companions not far away. He walked towards them, seeing that they were safe and out of harms way he sighed in relief. No doubt they were wondering where he had been, but he simply walked on and passed them. "Rivendell lies not far ahead. I know these passes well and we should reach the haven by noon tomorrow if we make good time. Is the message safe Aerl?" He said to his companions.
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on: October 12, 2007 12:00
Alagos looked up at the snow-flakes. Something about them put him on edge, and he wished now that he had a weapon about him. But he did not.

“We should be getting back to the houses,” he murmured, “There’s something about this place that doesn’t feel safe.”


Alagos nodded, "Ai, I think that you may be right in this." He waited for Aeregwathion before heading up towards Imladris. He walked beside the other elf in silence for a few paces, but if it be the snow or some other evil something set him on edge and Alagos was incluned to speak to try and allay some of his fears.

"I am sorry Lord Elrond is gone." Said he, "Did you know him?"
elendil2
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on: October 12, 2007 12:37
Aerandir noticed the movement of Celethor below. What is he doing? he thought, then noticed the flash of ignition. He quickly understood. He quickly drew and fired an arrow, bringing down an orc. Three more shots, and three more orcs died.

Seeing some orcs trying to retreat, he fired, catching one in the arm. It's cry of pain guided his next shot, dropping one of it's escorts. Celethor ran after the the orcs. The fool! he raged silently. There could be more orcs in there!.

Aerlinniel hastily made her way to the side of the cave, stopping beneath the tree where Aerandir was perched. “How long do you think they’ll put up a fight?” she shouted up to him.

"It depends how many we kill," he replied, "Orcs hunt in packs. They draw their strength from their fellows. An orc rarely will show individual bravery."

Just at that boment, an orc sprung up from the position where it had lain still, waiting until Celethor had passed. It fired an arrow an Aerandir, and ran out of the cave, towards the wilderness. Aerandir cursed himself for his forgetfulness, and dived out of the tree, the arrow just missing him. He rolled to a stop, and fired an arrow from his powerful longbow. The orc screech echoed around him. He turned to face Aerlinniel. "As you saw, when alone, orcs fight for survival."
ElfmaidenofLorien
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on: October 13, 2007 10:03
Aewennen soon found Lord Elladan. She wished to speak with him and find out why she was called here. Not that she minded, but she wanted to know.

"Something has been brewing. Some sort of evil. I fear that something will happen soon, and knowing how strong you are with weapons I thought you might want to help. After all, we don't have many elves around here anymore." Elladan said. He sounded a little sad.

Aewennen placed her hand on Elladan's shoulder. She smiled slightly, and suddenly very old memories appeared in her mind. Memories of the days when she watched Elladan and Elrohir toddle around. She sighed.

"Don't worry, I'll fight for you." Aewennen assured him. A smile of determination appeared on her fair face.

Elladan nodded. "Thank you, Lady Aewennen. I truly appreciate it." He said.

Aewennen shook her head. "Since when did you become so formal with an old friend? Must I tell you time and time again to call me Wen?" Aewennen said.

Elladan nodded. "Forgive me, Wen, but now I must leave. There are some things for me to attend to." He said. Then he walked out of the room.

Aewennen walked out of the study and looked out one of the large windows at the falling snow. As she looked her eyes caught sight of Alagos and Aeregwaithion coming.
"They look worried." Aewennen muttered.
'Not even the gods above can separate the two of us, no nothing can come between you and I.'
Maralyn_Imladiel
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 15, 2007 06:40
"As you saw, when alone, orcs fight for survival."


Aerlinniel could merely nod, still shaken from Aerandir’s narrow escape. Orcs were more cunning than she had given them credit for–that much was certain. Let us hope we do not meet up with any more of the foul creatures on our journey, thought the elleth with an inward shudder.

To her surprise and relief, Celethor suddenly approached them, his garments stained with the black blood of orcs. Instead of stopping, he walked right on past them, assuming an air of nonchalance as if nothing had happened.

"Rivendell lies not far ahead. I know these passes well and we should reach the haven by noon tomorrow if we make good time. Is the message safe, Aerl?”


“Yes, it is safe,” came Aerlinniel’s reply, “But what of the orcs? Have they all been slain?” She was glad that they had nearly reached their destination, though something could always happen to throw them off course. Take the storm, for instance. It had hit them out of nowhere, and who knows how much time it–along with the unexpected orc attack–had cost them? For all Aerlinniel knew, they could be in Imladris by now, enjoying steaming flagons of hot cider. The sooner we take our leave of this frozen place, the better, she thought with determination.

----------

“I am sorry Lord Elrond is gone." Said he, "Did you know him?"


“I spoke with Lord Elrond twice,” replied Aeregwathion, “Once when I arrived here some years ago, and once when he left. I knew him as an acquaintance only.” The ellon then lapsed into his usual silence.

They walked in silence for the rest of the way, each dwelling on his own thoughts. Before long, the main house came into view, its windows glowing cheerfully from the light within. A blanket of snow had already covered the roof, and all in all gave it a cozy appearance, though Aeregwathion would have found it more welcoming if it had been springtime. Smoke could be seen wafting out from the chimneys.

Out of the corner of his eye, Aeregwathion saw an elleth’s face peering out at them through one of the study’s large windows. It was Aewennen, and she was alone. I wonder if she has found someone to explain her message, thought Aeregwathion with a slight frown. The last thing he wanted was to be bombarded with questions.
minstral_of_the_dawn
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on: October 15, 2007 10:58
Alagos nodded, walking in silence throughout their journey back to Rivendell. It wasn't far, but there was an unnatural chill that made him shiver to the core (though outwardly he did not).

He was glad when they finally reached Rivendell, he longed to go sit in the hall of fire. A nice warm cider and some stories would be just the thing to lift the chill and the snows. Alagos turned for a moment to Aeregwathion.

"I will take my leave of you now, mellon. I am retiring to the hall of fire where perhaps I can shake the snow off my cape. But I must request, if it is alright with you-that is-that you inform me as to what is happening if you should discover it before myself. It is up to you of course, so I thank you either way for your company and companionship." He bowed politely then walked towards the hall of fire.
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on: October 19, 2007 06:09
The next morning, a thick cover of newly-fallen snow covered the ground. Färynel stepped out of the cave and stared up at the slate-grey sky. It was bone-chillingly cold, worse than the day prior. She began shivering uncontrollably and retreated back into the cave, keeping close to the smoldering fire. She pulled the ends of the logs to the middle and stoked it up again. Soon, the fire began to flicker and soon it was revived. Färynel sat in front of it and pulled her cloak tightly around her. Only a day's journey to Imladris and warmth, she conceded, shuddering.

Gathering her belongings, Färynel mounted Brethil and made her way down the mountain. The slopes were gentler now, and the wind was lessened. Not that it was any warmer, Färynel thought.

Surrounding her as she rode was blood and disturbed snow. Signs of battle were evident. The air took on an irony smell. The battle had occurred the night before. But she didn't know what had happened. Then, a dark head peered around a tree and glared at her. There was a defiant look in its eyes. It was an orc, black, hideous, calculating. Färynel glared back and urged Brethil further down the mountain, not wanting any bloodshed this day.
"There is no such thing as a geek, just those who love things the rest of humanity finds weird."
Celethor
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on: October 23, 2007 01:54
Celethor noticed the disconcerted look in Aerl's eyes. At once, he understood how is rash actions affected the group.
"I am sorry for worrying you both, I tend to get a little....fierce when it comes to orcs. I took care of the stragglers though, so we should not fear a raiding party to come upon us in the night. Good fortune smiles upon us today though, for I see the path is easier up ahead. Come, let us be off, to Rivendell."
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on: October 23, 2007 01:06
Aewennen made her way to the Hall of Fire. She needed to think about what Elladan had said for a little while. now, Aewennen was more of a doer than a thinker, but when it came to situations like this one, she had to do some thinking.

As she walked she was bombarded with memories of this land before she left. It had been Spring, as always, and though the War of the Ring was raging everything was still beautiful.

"Maybe I shouldn't have left." Aewennen sighed sadly.

Then she noticed Alagos walking in the same direction. She didn't really want to tell everything she had heard before she thought it over but she would enjoy some company.

"Alagos, would you care to sit with me in the Hall of Fire? I need to do some thinking, but I'd rather not do it alone." Aewennen asked as she walked up to him.
A slight cold breeze rustled her cloak and her blue eyes looked out at the surrounding mountains.

"Something evil is brewing." She muttered.
'Not even the gods above can separate the two of us, no nothing can come between you and I.'
Maralyn_Imladiel
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 23, 2007 01:12
"I will take my leave of you now, mellon. I am retiring to the hall of fire where perhaps I can shake the snow off my cape. But I must request, if it is alright with you-that is-that you inform me as to what is happening if you should discover it before myself. It is up to you of course, so I thank you either way for your company and companionship."


Aeregwathion gave a solemn nod. “I will do my best to inform you if anything of note takes place. Farewell.”

After Alagos had taken his leave, Aeregwathion found himself wandering the grounds, not yet ready to seek warmth indoors. Despite the cold, he was beginning to savor the peace and quiet now that he was alone. The ellon let out a long sigh and watched his breath turn into vapor in the chill air. Yes, it was peaceful in Imladris–why else had he continued to dwell here all these years? And yet, as much as he appreciated the peace Imladris offered, Aeregwathion’s heart was not at rest, and would never be so until he found the one he sought. If only...

He shivered. There it was again–that unmistakable chill that meant something was not right. Another sigh escaped his lips, fainter than the first. He would return to the houses–it was safe there, and warm. His heart heavy, the ellon turned and slowly began making his way back, his footsteps muffled by the falling snow.

----------

The company was making good progress. After leaving the scene of battle, they had travelled a considerable distance before finally stopping to rest. They had chosen a small cave–after confirming that it was free of orcs–and spent the remainder of the night huddled around a fire Celethor and Aerandir had built.

Aerlinniel awoke shivering. Though the storm had diminished overnight, the air was deathly cold–so cold that one’s very breath seemed to freeze in midair. After gulping down a hasty breakfast of cold bread and cheese, she and her escorts were off, reassured by Celethor’s affirmation that Imladris was a mere half-day’s journey away.

They had only been travelling for an hour when Aerlinniel stopped suddenly. “Listen!” She held up a gloved hand, and her escorts also stopped. The sound of hoofbeats could be heard on the path behind them–faintly, but growing clearer by the minute. Aerlinniel bit her lip as she was wont to do when anxious, uncertainty clouding her eyes. There was no way of telling weather the approaching party was friend or foe. Should they hide, or stand their ground? She glanced at her escorts, waiting for their reactions.

[OOC: I wanted to get things rolling, so I hope you guys don't mind if I rushed Aerlinniel and Co. a bit. ]
minstral_of_the_dawn
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 23, 2007 01:52
"Alagos, would you care to sit with me in the Hall of Fire? I need to do some thinking, but I'd rather not do it alone." "Something evil is brewing."


Alagos nodded and fell into step alongside Aewennen, "It would be my pleasure, my lady." he said with a slight bow of his head.

He cocked his head slightly at her mention of evil. "Yes..." He said, "Evil stirrs once again. It chills me to my bones, one would have thought that with Sauron gone that all would be good again...I guess things aren't so easy anymore. There will always be one more thing to face. One more enemy to shoot down."

They, by then, had reached the hall of fire, Alagos took a seat on a stone bench motioning for Aewennen to sit by him.

"What are your thoughts?" He asked, "they are clearly troubled, I can read them on your face. You can tell me them if you wish."
elendil2
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on: October 24, 2007 03:04
Aerandir rode through the matted snow on the road towards Imladris. It was the day after the attack by orcs.

They had only been traveling for an hour when Aerlinniel stopped suddenly. “Listen!” She held up a gloved hand, and her escorts also stopped. The sound of hoofbeats could be heard on the path behind them–faintly, but growing clearer by the minute.
"Keep going!" he whispered harshly, galvanizing them into action. "If it's a foe, the last thing we want them to know is that we know of them." He jumped off his horse. It would keep going, for it was trained for tracking. It stamped its feet with a little more vigor, to cover up the lost weight. He drew his bow and stood in front of a tree, throwing his cloak up to cover all but his eyes. If it were a man or an orc, they would not see him.

[Edited on 25/10/2007 by elendil2]
Dinenlasse
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 26, 2007 04:53
Färynel was amazed at how cold the mountains could be. Thrusting her hand into leather gloves lined with sheep's wool, she grasped the reins and felt Brethil's mouth play with the cold bit. As he trudged forward, he lifted his head high and flared his nostrils, scenting the air. He halted in his steps and turned his head slightly to the right. Färynel leaned low over his neck and muttered, "An enemy?" Brethil whickered his uncertainty. The path narrowed ahead of them, but she could see the pass that would lead her into the valley where her destination lie.

As they moved, the elf grabbed her bow and notched an arrow to it. Brethil stepped carefully, avoiding rocks and overhanging branches. He was alert, as alert as his mistress. Both sensed someone was near.

Sighting further down the trail, Färynel thought she could discern the figure of someone in front of a tree. An arrow flew by her head and landed in the ground next to her. Brethil started a bit, and Färynel concentrated her arrow on the figure. Without saying a word, she kept him-or her-in view and did not turn her back to it. "Who is one that takes the pleasure to prevent travelers from making their way to the valley that is thither?" she asked calmly, though there was no mistaking the glare in her eyes.

She leaned against the back of the saddle to stop Brethil (for her hands were not free) and met the gaze of the one who had fired the arrow. "I presume you mean not to harm me?" Färynel inquired, her arrow pointed meaningfully at the figure. It was still breathtakingly cold, but the cold did not pierce the fire that ran through Färynel's veins as this moment. She waited for a response, her breath furling out in tendrils in front of her.
"There is no such thing as a geek, just those who love things the rest of humanity finds weird."
ElfmaidenofLorien
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 27, 2007 07:00
Aewennen nodded. "Well, I am mostly troubled about the danger. Elladan said that was why he called me here. Because something is changing, and something bad is going to happen. Or, at least, that's what we feel." Aewennen explained.

She sat slumped in her chair. Her mind was churning with all the thoughts. "Maybe I should have left for the West with my brother." she muttered. But she knew she wouldn't have been as happy, because there would always be that question nagging in the back of her head, Was it really my time to leave?

Then she sighed. "I had thought the dangerous days had passed, but I suppose I fooled myself." She said sadly.

Then she turned to Alagos. "How long have you lived here Alagos? I've been here since the beginning. I remember the wars that came, but they always went, and eventually peace came. Every time there was peace I always believed it would last, but I seem to continue to lie to myself." Aewennen said with a soft chuckle.

Again memories were roused in her mind. When she was just a young girl following her brother, waiting for his guidance.
"And now look what I've become? A wandering maiden who has a mind of her own." Aewennen mumbled.

Then she looked at Alagos. "Oh, forgive me. I'm afraid I'm thinking of the days when I was just a young girl in this world. But that is in the past, my mind should remain in the present." Aewennen said.
'Not even the gods above can separate the two of us, no nothing can come between you and I.'
minstral_of_the_dawn
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: October 27, 2007 07:35
Alagos looked at her, nodding slightly, "I understand. My mind has too, of late, drifted back into memory and history. I have been here for a long time as well. So long ago it seems that I have forgotten something. But as to what that is I do not know."

His gaze wandered around the hall of fire, "I have seen wars come and go. I have seen famines, and droughts, and bountiful times. Every time we get through another I wonder if it will be my last time...not the last war, not the last peace. There will always be strife and things that will rise up to twart peace. This much I have determined. I wonder how much longer I can avoid having to leave out of sheer desperation."

He looked back Aewennen, "Do you think you should leave?" He asked her. "if you had left with your brother, would you regret all the experience-good and bad-of this world? Yes, there is evil, yes it is hard. But there still is peace. And we are still alive through all of it. There is still hope." He smiled as if lost in throught.
Maralyn_Imladiel
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: November 03, 2007 04:05
Unable to stand the tension in the air, Aerlinniel boldly faced the stranger on horseback. “It is not our intention to harm anyone, we can assure you! We are nought but innocent travellers on our way to Imladris.” She regretted the words as soon as they had sprung from her lips, but nothing could take them back now. Seeing as the stranger made no move, she summoned up her courage and spoke again.

“We are friends from Eryn Lasgalen. Pray, what is your name, and what business brings you here?” There; she’d said it. No doubt her escorts would be furious at her for doing so, but what else were they to do? Fighting never solved anything; those were the words Aerlinniel lived by. Besides, how could a rider whose speech and carriage were so undoubtably Elvish be a foe? Upon closer inspection, Aerlinniel also noted that the rider’s horse bore strong resemblance to the kind bred in Eryn Lasgalen. It’s likely that she hails from there, thought Aerlinniel, But what reason could she have to be travelling through the Misty Mountains? Still a bit nervous, but curious nonetheless, the elleth awaited the rider’s reply, all the while trying to avoid the gazes of her escorts.

[[OOC: I'm very disappointed with the length of this post, but it was all I could come up with on such short notice. >.< It should hopefully suffice until I get the means and inspiration to write something longer...]]

[Edited on 11/5/2007 by Maralyn_Imladiel]
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: November 05, 2007 05:35
Färynel met the elf's inquiring gaze and replied calmly, with no hint of malice or anger in her tone. "I am called Färynel, and I was born in Lorien. A restlessness has gripped my heart, and so I seek to counsel with the lords of Imladris. And yourself? Why is it that you are here along with an escort. Surely you are either a great lady, in which case I must show respect, or you must be guarding something important."

At the latter, the female elf blinked once, not betraying anything on her face, but the closing of her eyes revealed the truth to Färynel. Perceptive as she was, Färynel had no wish to intrude upon what was obviously not her own business. "If we are bound for the same place, then perhaps I can help you there. I know ways through those woods most of the folk in the city don't know about. It would save us some time. That is, unless your escorts care not for my presence."

Putting her bow on its notch on the saddle and the arrow back in its quiver, Färynel removed any defense to show her honesty. While she might not have taken to any of these elves as of yet, at least she could show them her good side. No use in creating enmity where friends instead could be made.

(Sorry this is horrible, but my caffeine has not kicked in yet. Next post will be better!)
"There is no such thing as a geek, just those who love things the rest of humanity finds weird."
elendil2
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Post RE: The Lingering Ones [See OOC before posting]
on: November 09, 2007 03:50
"I meant no harm, my friend. I could have killed you if I wished." Aeradir walked up to retrieve his arrow. He bent down to pick it up. "We would be glad if you would accompany us," he said in response. He saw that she was very perceptive, And immediately pasted a neutral expression on his features.

"And to your previous question, I am called Aerandir."

OOC: Sorry for the length of the post.
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