The Epic of the Exiles

[Friend of Maglor]

:flamer: THE AGE OF THE SILMARILS :flamer:
The Exiles have returned to Middle Earth, and the land is wracked with war. This RP narrates the struggles of men and elves against evil and amongst themselves.

**read OOC thread for info***
:cool: ALL NEW CHARACTERS PLEASE PM ME WITH YOUR BIO BEFORE JOINING :cool:

Characters:
Names: Amrod and Amras
Played by: Melathwen
Race: High Noldorin Elves, I think. I might be wrong. I don't get all the divisions. Please correct me if necessary
Gender: Males
Age: No idea. Since I don't actually know 1) When this RPG starts 2) The year the twins are born, I can't say
Height: Tall, I would guess. A little over 6 feet.
Place of Residence: With their father?
Family: Complicated. Sixth and seventh sons of Fëanor, first son of Finwë, the only by his first wife, Miriel, and I don't know who their mother is.
Weapons: Identical long bows, (obviously with quivers) and swords.
Special Abilities: Fighting, I guess.
Appearance: Tall, with dark brown hair and grey eyes. They are almost identical, and both are lean from fighting. And no elf is fat anyway. With the possible exception of Cirdan. Their mouths are shaped for smiling, which they do often. Strong, large hands and long arms.
Personality: This is where (in my mind) they differ. I always think of Amrod as being outgoing and loud, while Amras is quiet and reserved, but that's just me. I don't actually remember reading anything beyond oblique references in the Sil, so I'm not sure anyone actually knows what they're like, so I don't suppose it matters a great deal. Kind of like how I think of Elladan and Elrohir, but that's due to a series of fanfic I've read, not anything written by Tolkien. Still, I now find it hard to think or either set of twins being any other way.
History: Don't think they have a whole lot, other than taking the Oath of Fëanor with their brothers. As I said, I don't think they're mentioned much, so let's just say they fought quietly with thier heads down.

***********

Name: Rananar (later surnamed Mellondil)
Played by: Friend of Maglor
Age: born a third generation Noldorian
Height: 6' 5"
Combat: double blades (not longknives, these are slightly smaller than swords)
Family: Already of the House of Fëanor, due to a marriage (between the sister of Curufin's wife and my mother) I am also related indirectly to the Seven
Appearance:
black hair past waist, braided with red ribbon
eyes like the changing sea
customarily wears mithril mail, or when not armed always clothed in different hues of red
Personality: Fiery, although somewhat withdrawn and thoughtful now, easily provoked....proud but uses pride to mask deeper hurts.... appears to care very little for others but really has a painful hunger for acceptance by those she is so ofter hated by

*********

Name: Aerlinn
Played by: Telumehtar
Race: Teleri Elf (Laiquendi clan)
Gender: Female
Age: Young adult, depends on when this RPG starts
Height: 5'9"
Place of Residence: Wherever she wishes, she tends to wander.
Family: No one can be sure...
Weapons: Sword, longbow & quiver, twin daggers in boots.
Special Abilities: Well-trained with weapons (think Eowyn as an elf )
Appearance: Black shoulder-length hair, green eyes, body slim and tough from combat and travel. Generally wears thin chainmail under her riding gear.
Personality: Wanderous. Rarely talks unless she has something important to say, but with a very fiery quick temper. She loves to settle and argument with her sword.
History: Has been wandering Middle Earth since her banishment from her home, for reasons she won't reveal.

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

Name: Seron
Played by: Wilwarin
Race: Teleri
Gender: Male
Age: Old enough
Height: 6' 4"
Location: Born in Doriath, but for several centuries he has taken to wandering the widerness.
Family: His sister Sírien. Both of his parents are dead.
Special Abilities: Extremely accurate with his bow (but what elf isn't?)
Appearance: Tall and slender (duh, he's an elf!). Long dark hair worn much like Legolas's. Dark grey eyes.
Personality: Quick-witted and wary of strangers. Does not hand over his trust easily. A worthy fighter. To those who know him he is soft spoken and gentle. Rarely angers, and when he does he keeps his cool.
Weapons: A small but strong bow which he crafted himself. He also carries two long-knives, but perfers to use his bow when able.
Other: Owns a horse called Rînlend, but rides him only when traveling long distances. Prefers to walk or run.

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

Name: Melathwen, called Mel by her friends
Played by: Melathwen
Race: Considers herself Noldorin but is really also half Vanyarin
Gender: Female (but I think you all knew that!)
Age: About 1593, so she's young
Height: 5'8" (short, basically)
Location: Wherever most of the Noldor live. In other words, I don't know.
Family: An older brother Túrindo (thanks Wil!), and their mother, (I have no name yet) (the Vanyarin). Their father is dead.
Special Abilities: She is good at fighting, but not excellent. Her best ability is healing, which she learned much of in Aman, from her mother, amonst others.
Appearance: Has the golden hair of her mother, unlike Túrindo, and sea-blue eyes. Her skin is fair, and she isn't tall but is slender.
Personality: A big one! She's quite loud and outspoken, because she fears that if she isn't, no one will notice her because she's so short. She hates being short, and reacts violently to anyone making snide comments about it. As such, she's often in trouble of one kind or another. But really, her loud facade is only to hide a sensitive, giving soul that she doesn't want anyone to find.
Weapons: Medium length bow, and a sword that looks too long for her and wins a lot of fights because of that.
Other: She doesn't have a horse, but would like one. She maintains she hasn't found the right one yet, but her brother thinks she's being stupid.
History: She was born in Aman before the Noldor were exiled, and followed her father into that exile. Her mother was kept in Aman by her parents, not allowed to follow her husband, and as he died in the exile, she has become very bitter and estranged herself from her parents. Mel and her brother, after losing their father, wandered the land for many years before finally settling with other Noldor.

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

Name: Acharne
Played by: Evenstar
Race: Sindarin
Gender: Female
Age: 1028
Height: 5'8"
Family: She never mentions them.
Weapons: bow, quiver and small dagger. She also carries a poisoned dart which she wears in her hair.
Special Abilities: She is very fast and agile, even for an elf.
Appearance: silver-grey eyes, hair that falls just past her shoulders and is very dark brown. A vulnerable-looking face. She always wears black clothes, and she has a silver ring on the fifth finger of her left hand with a white gem..
Personality: shy. She rarely gives an opinion unless she is asked for it. She finds it hard to make friends and only trusts a handful of people.
History: She has been traveling Beleriand, mostly alone, alone for 200 years, but no one knows what happened to her before that.

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

Name: Brand
Played by: Wilwarin
Race: Adan of the First House
Gender: male
Height: 6' 4"
Age: born 428 FA (His age depends on when the RP actually starts)
Location: Born and raised in Ladros. Now resides in Dor-Lómin
Family: All his family was killed in Dagor Bragollach.
Appearance: Has the dark hair and grey eyes of his house. His hair is wavy and falls just to the tops of his shoulders. He often wears it in a low ponytail. He is well-built from hard work and his skin is slightly tanned.
Personality: Before the Dagor Bragollach Brand was a very happy person, kind and thoughtful, always ready to laugh. After the battle, however, he became hard and developed a no-nonsense personality. His face is now rarely lit with a smile, and he spends a lot of time deep in thought, either walking through the fields or riding through the mountains.
Weapons: A sword, plus two knives that he uses for throwing.
Horse: A dark bay mare he named Erelas, in memory of his Love. This mare has become his only true friend.
History: Brand grew up in Ladros in Dorthonion. At the age of 27 he was planing to marry the love of his life, Erelas. But Morgoth invaded Dorthonion that year and Ladros was destroyed, its people fleeing. Brand and his family, along with Erelas were separated, and later he learned from a friend who had been with them that they (his mother, father, brother and Erelas) had been killed. Brand moved to Dor-Lómin with most of the refugees from Ladros. There he continued to live a half-life for many years, overcome with grief for Erelas and his family. He shut out the world, not letting anyone else into his life.

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You know who you are ppl!!! lol
I myself might play one or more of the sons of Fëanor... but now let us begin!!

:flamer:~Rananar Mellondil, Friend of Maglor~:flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand opened his eyes, then just as quickly closed them again. His head was throbbing and in that one second the ceiling above him seemed to be sliding down the wall. He rubbed his eyes a few times, then tried opening them again. His head still throbbed, but at least the room was staying pretty much still. Brand staggered to his feet, the empty bottle that had been in his lap fell to the floor and rolled to rest near the cold hearth. Sunlight streamed in the window, lighting a square patch of the thick carpet near his feet. The man groaned and staggered to the window.

He could see the Mountains of Mithrim in the Northeast, far away and shrouded in low-hanging clouds. Near at hand there were many houses and buildings of commerce that spread out across a gently sloping hill. Down below his second story window many people hurried about with their late afternoon business. Brand sighed. He had slept late again.

He left the window and reached for his shirt which had been thrown over the back of his chair the night before. Pulling it on he left the room, quickly making his way through his empty house until he was outside breathing in the fresh autumn air. He stood on his porch for a while, his eyes closed, just listening to the sounds of the city. It was too noisy, he decided. He had to get away.

A minute later he was in the stable behind his house, saddling his dark bay mare, Erelas. Before mounting he rested his head on the horse's neck, burying his face in her thick black mane. "Oh, Erelas," he breathed quietly. "What has become of me?" The horse gave him no reply except an impatient stamp of her hoof, as if to say, If you're going to rid me, then hurry up and get with it. Brand smirked slightly—his version of a smile—and mounted gracefully. He guided Erelas through the city streets, and then out the large gate in the city wall. Once clear of any traffic he let the mare have her head and they galloped across the wide plain that surrounded city.

The wind whipping through Brand's hair revived him. He took a deep breath, his head finally clearing. Had he been anyone different he might have laughed aloud for the sheer joy of being this free. But Brand didn't laugh. He never laughed now, not for many years. And joy, to him, was now a stranger.

[Melathwen]

'Up!'

'Hnn?' Amras grunted, pushing his brother's annoying hands off him, and burrowing deeper into the wide bed. He hated mornings, especially when his brother wanted him to get up for them. He felt warm sunlight on the bedcovers, and wondered what time it was. Past noon, he guessed, since he rarely woke before then, and his brother usually came at about that time to wake him.

'Get up, Amras!' Amrod commanded, attempting to pull the covers off his reluctant brother. Why did Amras have to get up so late? He was always up with the Sun, there to greet the day while his brother slumbered.

'No!' Amras' voice was muffled, but forceful. He gripped the coverlet tightly and hung on, not letting his brother pull it away from him. He hated his brother, especially when Amrod tried to get him up in the morning. Afternoon, he corrected himself. Well, if he was awake enough to correct himself, he may as well get up. Pulling harder on the cover so that Amrod pulled harder in response, Amras waited, pulling harder and grinning gleefully when his brother pulled back, waited some more - and let go.

Amrod fell backwards with a muffled oath, and Amras grinned again. Amrod always fell for that, no matter how many times he did it. He would have thought his brother would have learned by now, but no. Well, while it was to Amras' advantage, he wouldn't complain. As he got up, he made sure that he tangled his brother a little more in the cover and went to wash. When he came back, Amrod was still trying to untangle himself. Amras laughed at him while he dressed, then took mercy on the tall elf and bent to help him.

Amrod grinned as he felt Amras come to help. He had deliberately thrashed and tangled himself for precisely this reason; as he felt Amras' helping hand, he caught it and yanked. Amras flew off his feet with a yell, and landed on top of Amrod. Not expecting it, he was caught unaware, but Amrod was ready. He flipped Amras off him onto the floor and quickly sat astride his brother's chest, a triumphant grin lighting his face. Amras grunted.

'Oh, I'm sorry, brother, were you trying to help me?' Amrod asked, his voice so innocent any would have believed him no more than twenty. Amras, however, was wiser than that. 'I didn't need your help, after all, but thank you for the thought.' While Amrod was speaking, Amras shifted his position a little, hoping that Amrod would be too distracted to notice. He was. With surprising swiftness and agility, even for an elf, there was a flurry of movement and seconds later it was Amrod pinned to the floor while Amras sat on his chest.

'No, I was not trying to help,' he said, the grin his brother had worn moments ago sliding onto his face. They were a mirror imiage of each other, which they often used to advantage. Amras had barely got the words out before Amrod tackled him, and a short scuffle resulted, in which the coverlet somehow became ripped, and feathers flew everywhere. Two very funny, ridiculous-looking elves emerged from the snowstorm, laughing so hard they could barely stand.

[Telumehtar]

Meanwhile Aerlinn was riding swiftly across the earth, pursuing another rider. A man, she could tell; he was tall with dark hair somewhat lighter than her own. For what reason she had decided to follow him, she did not know. Perhaps it was the simple fact that she had not seen another face for many long days, and was truly lonely for the first time she could remember. Perhaps not. The elven girl knew nothing of him, save his race, and yet she followed him despite it. Something about this rider, who had suddenly fled the city, intrigued her.

(Wil, if this doesn't fit with what you have planned for your character, just let me know. I thought it would be interesting to have them interact a bit, but it's pretty much up to you. ;))
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

((Fine with me, I don't have any plans for him at this point, just waiting to see what happens. He will play quite hard to get though. ;) ))

Brand heard the sound of another horse behind him. He looked back over his shoulder and saw a cloaked rider swiftly catching up. The last thing he wanted right now was company. He spurred Erelas forward, giving the mare her full head, attempting to out distance the other rider.

Before long the wide plain came to an end and large trees sprouted up in front of them. Erelas continued on at a flying speed, but every time Brand looked behind him the other rider was still the same distance away. What could this person want? he wondered. It couldn't be anyone he knew, for he didn't have any friends in the city, and his only other friend lived quite far away and he hadn't seen him in years.

Well, one thing was for sure, he didn't want to make any new friends at this point. But he knew that Erelas wouldn't be able to keep up this pace much longer, especially since the ground was starting to rise toward the mountains and the way was growing rocky. He would have to lose the other rider among the winding paths and large rocks of the mountain side.

[Melathwen]

'My Lords?' Thoron asked, coming into the room expecting to see two well-dressed, serious elves who were ready for the midday meal. His lips twitched as he beheld the room, but he wisely let nothing more show.

'Yes, Thoron?' Amras asked, doing his best to look dignified despite the feather stuck on the end of his nose. 'Did you want us?' he asked, giving his brother a shove as Amrod snickered at him.

'Only to tell you that the midday meal is ready, my Lord,' Thoron said, still trying to cover his mirth. All the servants in the brothers' house had learned not to let mirth show at their antics, and many had learnt the lesson the hard way. Amrod snickered more at the thought of his feathery brother being a lord, but Amras was no longer in any mood to put up with it.

'Thank you, Thoron. We will be down shortly.' Thoron bowed and left, and Amras heard his soft laughter as he closed the door. Well, they could only expect so much. 'Amrod, that really wasn't funny,' Amras began, advancing on his now-helpless brother.

'Oh, yes it was!' Amrod crowed, trying to evade his brother's reaching hands while steadying himself with the wall. He failed. Amras caught his brother's arm and roughly shoved him through their connecting door and into his own room, shooting the bolt home before Amrod could protest. The door had been Amrod's idea, to connect their rooms so that they didn't have to use the corridor. It made sense, since they spent so much time together.

Dusting his hands off, Amras allowed himself a wry grin at his reflection, and proceeded to pick feathers off his clothes and from his dark hair. He took the plaits he had slept in out and brushed most of the feathers off, picking a few of the more stubborn ones out with slender fingers. Rebraiding his hair, he decided that he would have to change and get someone else to pick feathers out of his clothes, or he would be late. Sighing, he chose a deep blue tunic over a paler blue shirt. He knew the colours complimentes his eyes, and he wanted to present a good picture today, sure that the feather story would be all around the house before the meal.

Giving one last satisfactory look in the mirror, he opened his door and left his room. Before he had taken three steps Amrod's door opened, and his twin stepped out, dressed exactly the same. Both looked at the other, tried to sneer and ended up laughing. When they had recovered, they walked towards the dining hall. They didn't usually dress alike, as the servants had complained about not being able to tell them apart. They'd have fun at dinner, dressed the same accidentally, and neither willing to change again. No one else could tell them apart, either.

[Telumehtar]

(Sounds good, Wil, we like a challenge! :p)

Aerlinn shouted to her horse, a spirited black stallion that she had befriended many years ago. The stallion leaped forward, galloping as fast as she would allow him. The rider was trying to lose her...but for the first time she could remember she didn't want to be lost. They were now weaving through the trees after the plain. She supposed the man would try to lose her on the rocky terrain of the mountainside. Little does he know, she thought with a wry smile.

"Shall we test your skill, Nárë?" she whispered. The horse let out a shrill whinny, which she took as an answer. "Very well, my old friend," she said, and let the horse have his head, hooves flying like the wind that whipped her black hair.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand looked behind him again and still saw the rider perusing him. He cursed lightly under his breath in frustration. Nearing some large outcroppings he went around a sharp bend in the path, then reined Erelas into a narrow pass between two large crags, just off the road. He turned her around to face the way they had come in, then waited. He could hear the other horse's hooves getting closer. Quietly Brand drew his sword, holding it ready in case who ever it was following him turned out to be an enemy.

His hope was that the rider would pass them by without noticing their hiding spot, then they could just quietly go back the way they had come once the stranger had passed. But if worst came to worst, he would be ready.

[Evenstar]

Acharne saw the human standing a few feet away from her, his sword drawn ready. So far he had not seen her, hidden in the shadows as she was, but she knew it was only a matter of time. By the way the human watched the opening of the pass so intently she guessed he was being pursued.

She decided to stay where she was, and find out the identity of the follower. Quietly she crept further back into the shadows.

[Ceri Bloom]

<<Melathwen just read this and said there was a couple of mistakes, so im sorry!! but im too lazy to go over and correct em lol >>

A light, a crack in the dark on the floor. A slice of the world fell over Cerridwen’s slim form and her face creased in the want of more sleep. Just a few more minutes. She snuggled further down in the feather soft bad and just basked in the glorious feeling that she had time to spare. She had nowhere to be, not now, not when she was here. She heard a creak of the door adjoining her room to the ensuite and her mind lifted up to consciousness once more. She knew she had to get up really. Judging by the strength of the sun it was nearly noon, nearly time for lunch.
As Cerridwen put off having to get up, her stomach reminded her she hadn’t eaten anything since sunrise the morning before. Groaning she sat up, blinking the in the light. She shook her head silently. [….] knew her too well. She scowled at her strange furry friend for opening the bathroom door and letting the light in, then sighed and began undoing her packs to find some clean clothes. After searching in vain she found a clean underslip, but nothing more. Being awake now, Cerridwen threw open the shutters to her room and let the beautiful streams of sunlight flood in. She felt refreshed from the light, and looking around, could clearly see a wardrobe on the back wall, behind the door to the hall. In a moment of inspiration, she strode lithely across to the big oak piece and undid the door’s clasp. Slowly the door creaked open, and Cerridwen gasped. Contained within the wardrobe was the most beautiful gown she had seen in a long time. Although simply designed, it shone in shades of silver and blue, complimenting both her hair and her eyes. Eagerly she tried it on. It was a perfect fit. Now feeling more like herself, she shut the wardrobe door and Cerridwen and her strange furry friend floated down to the main hall, as if on a cloud.
On arriving at the hall, the call for lunch was taken up, Cerridwen smiled to her self thankfully, and floated off to find the lunch hall.

The hall was massive, bigger then she’d ever seen. But that was hardly surprising, considering her history. Everyone around her was as well dressed as her, and doubly as friendly and welcoming. They were obviously used to new guests coming and going.
Cerridwen enjoyed the meal immensely, and made a great new many friends during the course of the meal. On getting up to refill her water glass, for she preferred to do it herself, then have servants do it for her, she was stayed by the most stunning sight. A male elf, laughing and talking with the people around him. He was dressed in a handsome blue tunic, and had shining eyes and an amazing smile. Cerridwen stared shamelessly, until the elf in question looked up and met her gaze. He held Cerridwen there, spellbound for long moments, then, raising his glass to her resumed his conversation with an older elf next to him. On his toher side was an empty seat.

Deciding to use her initiative, and feeling talkative, Cerridwen slowly began to make her way towards the blue clad youth. But before she had gotten far he popped up beside her. Cerridwen smiled, and spotting a feather behind the elf’s ear she said to him
“Is this yours?”

[Melathwen]

'Is this yours?' The words were light, filled with laughter and beautiful. Amras turned and saw the most beautiful elf maiden. Her blue, blue eyes locked onto his and he couldn't look away. Slowly, gently, he plucked the feather from her slender fingers and let it drift to the floor, his eyes remaining on her face. Her pale skin seemed to shine, and he was captivated by her full, crimson lips that seemed to tremble with laughter. He supposed that not many elves walked around with feathers stuck behind their ears.

'Yes, thank you,' he said, somewhat unsteadily. He had never met a maiden like this before, and without even knowing her name he wanted to stay with her, to learn what she was like, what she liked to do. 'What's your name?' he asked then, his voice gaining strength as he saw that she was also affected.

'Cerridwen,' she answered, caressing the name so that he shivered. He looked into her eyes and saw the remains of her mirth, and silently cursed his brother. Why did Amrod always have to spoil things? Of course, he knew his brother would want to know Cerridwen just as much as he did. They were alike in that way, as well as just about every other.

'It is my honour to meet you,' Amras replied formally, bowing slightly to her. Evidently she wasn't quite sure what to make of it, since she just shifted slightly and remained where she was. It was just as well; the twins hated formality and usually made a mockery of it. But this time Amras found that he had been serious. 'My name is Amras, fair lady.'

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn looked over her shoulder at the trees behind her, seeing nothing. When she turned back she could not see the rider she had been persuing. She cursed under her breath, then noticed the light hoofprints on the ground that surely belonged to his horse. She followed them into a slim pass just off the main road, and halted. Then she saw him.

He sat upon a dark bay horse, a beauty of a mare. She noticed the mare pawing the ground with her hoof, then spoke softly to it in her tongue. It calmed, and she looked back up at the man. His sword was in hand, ready, his lightly tanned face was flushed. Her green eyes locked on his grey ones. Aerlinn took note of his handsome features, then shook the thought out of her head. The elf held up her pale hand to show she meant no harm, noticing his blade was very much as sharp as her own. She wondered for a moment if he would understand her language, then decided to speak in his. "Hello," she said, using the Common Tongue. She waited for him to speak.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand waited, barely breathing until the rider came into view and stopped, looking up at him. He was momentarily shocked to see that it was a woman, and an elf at that. But his annoyance at her pursuit returned quickly. She spoke several words in her own tongue, but Brand could catch the meaning of only a few of them. They seemed to be directed toward his horse.

At last the elf held up her hand, as if in a gesture of peace. "Hello," she said.

But she had picked the wrong day to seek him out. He was not feeling very sociable—not that he ever was—but he was also still suffering from a slight hangover, which throbbed in his right temple. He was not in a good mood at all.

As soon as the elf spoke her word of greeting Brand acted. With a sudden thrust of his heels in the mare's flanks, his horse bolted forward, forcing the elf's mount to back up out of the narrow cleft or be run over. Brand raised his sword, pointing it at the she-elf, his grey eyes flashing.

"Why are you following me?" he demanded.

[Telumehtar]

Nárë leapt back, snorting, caught off guard. Aerlinn's eyes flashed in irritation at the rider who had surprised her horse, then realized the Man had perfect reason to be suspicious of her. She was suspicious of herself, of this strange feeling of needing companionship. She had not felt such in many years.

She spoke calmly, however, despite her shyness, and held his gaze continually. "I apologize if I surprised you," she said. "I saw you leave the city...and wondered if I might accompany you, wherever your destination. I have not seen another face in a long while." She flushed a bit, knowing she must sound very awkward. "But I see you do not seek company...I should have assumed that you would not. Namarië, traveler." The girl lifted her hand again in a slight wave, then turned to leave. She was angry at herself, and wanted to leave this situation as soon as possible. She nudged Nárë in the ribs and began down the trail again.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand cursed lightly under his breath as the elf turned her horse and continued on down the tail. He sheathed his sword, scolding himself for his anger. Yet his anger didn't abate, but only grew in intensity. The nerve of that woman! Thinking that she could just invite herself on his journey—journey? What journey? He was just out for a little ride to clear his head. He wasn't going anywhere. And why would she want to go with him even if he were? He was a stranger to her. His curiosity ruled him for only a minute, but it was enough to make him nudge Erelas forward after the she-elf.

By this time she had got quite a ways back down the trail the way they had come. Rounding the bend he stopped his horse and watched the elf as she continued to ride away from him. For one moment he wondered who she was and why she had sought him out. Why was he so special, when there was a whole city of men and elves just a few miles away?

But the moment passed, and his curiosity was once again replaced by anger. His ride had been ruined, he was no longer in any mood to continue it. So, spurring Erelas forward, he headed back to the city as fast as the mare could run. In less than a minute he had caught up with the elf, then pounded passed her, causing the elf-horse to spook slightly, its rider struggling to keep the horse under control. But by then Brand was already far ahead, thundering his way back to the city.

[Telumehtar]

Thoughts whirled through the confused elf maiden's head. Why did she care so much about her lack of companions now? Why did this man seem to have such a hold on her thoughts? She had been alone for so long, and never once had a problem with loneliness. As the man whipped by her on his horse, Aerlinn threw her head back and stared up at the sky, her lips soundlessly forming a prayer to Elbereth, for guidance. "Back to the wilderness with us, Nárë," she said, and kicked the mare's flanks. The stallion flew forward, toward the city, which they would soon pass on there way to nowhere.
~Telu :flamer:

[Evenstar]

Acharne had seen the confrontation between the human and his elven pursuer but she had decided not to intervene. She had watched them both ride away and had been unable keep up as she had no horse.

Now she walked after them slowly, having no other destination at present. She knew it was highly unlikely she would ever see either of them again, but it was something to pass her time alone.

[Wilwarin]

After riding for several minutes Brand reined Erelas to a trot, then to a walk. His anger was spent, and so also was his energy for the moment. The city was still several miles away, but he wasn't really in any hurry to get there. What was there to go back to anyway? An empty house? Suddenly Brand felt a pang of regret that he had treated that elf so poorly. That just wasn't like him to act that way—at least, several years ago it wouldn't have been. But the last few years had been really rough, and once again Brand had done something to remind himself that he had changed, that the fun-loving and caring Brand of old was dead, replaced by this monster that desired neither light nor companionship.

He quickly hardened his resolve against any emotion that threatened to rise to the surface because of such thoughts. He had not allowed himself to cry in over ten years, he certainly wasn't going to start now over something as silly as getting angry at an elf.

Ten years... was it really that long ago?

He shook himself out of that chain of thought, for it would only serve to make him feel more miserable than he already was. He heard the faint hoof beats of the elf-maiden's horse and he turned to look behind him. She was galloping in roughly the same direction as he was traveling, though he could tell by her angle that she was making for the edge of the city, probably intending to go around it. For a brief moment the urge to catch up with her was very strong. But he forced it back. He could not afford it, he told himself. And so he continued on in the speed and direction he was going.

* * * * * *

Many hundreds of leagues away in Northeastern Beleriand, a dark-haired elf crouched near the flowing waters of a river known as the Little Gelion, which flowed into the Greater Gelion, and then Southward, and eventually to the sea. But this elf did not know the name of the river nor where it ended up. All he knew was that he was thirsty, and the swiftly flowing water was a sight for sore eyes.

He dipped his hand in, then brought the cold liquid to his lips. He closed his eyes as he felt the water run down his throat. He had gone too long without any water and he was beginning to feel the effects it was having on his body, growing slightly weaker and less coherent. It was not something an elf was accustomed to and he wanted to get back to normal as soon as possible.

After drinking and filling up his two water bottles, he went to a tree a short distance away and quickly climbed up into its branches. He settled himself in a crook between the trunk and a large branch, then kept watch while he rested.

[Friend of Maglor]

Rananar sighs heavily as a resounding knock shakes her elaborate wooden doors. She shuts the large, leather bound volume she was reading, with reluctance, and gathers her flame colored garments around her.

“Yes, yes, I come, I come!” she retorts to the servant’s fourth knock

Why am I attending this gathering again? She wonders. I don’t even like the Sindar embassy sent this year…and Maedhros isn’t here… though ‘tis little wonder… She thinks of the battle, fought only a few short years ago, the fourth of thier battles since reaching Middangeard's shores. She had no one to lose in that battle, except the Seven, who were her only living relatives, and not close ones at that. But Maglor had suffered, for among the bodies of the dead they searched lay his wife. Tears in her eyes, Rananar thought of her mother, her calm devoted mother, the sister of Curufin’s wife- traitor! Rananar thought resentfully… HER mother had left with her father, loyal to Fëanor his lord, bringing their daughter…. to the Shores….those…. Aiiiii…that hurts too much to think upon… she quickly strides across her room, shaking the throbbing memories away.

Rananar pauses before a floor length mirror, it is surrounded by twisting vines and frozen birds of stone, their beaks open singing silent songs. She runs her long fingers through her black hair, deftly pulling it up, reaching for a silver thread or two, grasping and entwining a chain of brilliant rubies and garnets, then braiding the few loose strands to hang down her back. She walks to her wardrobe, shaped like two living trees, which hangs with deep colored cloaks, star flung scarves, and flame hued dresses. Reds, oranges, crimsons, Rananar smiles to see the myriad colors, the ones she loves best. She slips out of the red and orange dress she has been wearing all day, and pulls a deep crimson gown, streaked with lighter red, carefully over her head. Finally, she selects a Fëanorean star, her favorite, a gift from Curufin himself to his niece, and pins it on the neckline of her dress. With one last glance at her broad bookshelves, she steps out of her room and strides into the hallway leading to the colors and music of the feast.

Upon arriving in the immense hall, Rananar searched the hall, with an air hinting at aloof detachment, for one of the Seven. A amusement played at the corners of her mouth, as she noticed the two youngest elf lords hurrying into the hall, in the company of several feathers. My uncles… The third generation of Aman, sons of Fëanor, and father sons of Finwë himself…you would think they had just reached their 150th year… “Rananar spoke softly, “No wonder Maedhros loves them so; they are the only brothers not completely consumed by their fate…and yet how different even they can be, I cannot forget...” Why can’t I just move on…there is tragedy enough on these shores…

With more composure Rananar moves across the room to Amrod, making note of the obvious attraction between Amras and a Sindar elf who… have I…seen her before?? Rananar is momentarily bewildered, but immediately her focus shifts again, as in the corner of her eye she sees a cloaked figure. She gasps, then, twisting and skipping through he throngs of elves, she comes to a halt before the tall elf, a Noldorian with long black hair, and deep, deep eyes- like unto all of Ulmo’s seas. He is wearing riding clothes, and a cloak held with a Star of Fëanor, one such as only the Seven may wear. His face is almost hard to look at, as it holds both peace and sorrow too deep to be imagined, but now it flickers with happy amusement as his eyes light upon the she elf flying towards him.

“Hail, sister-daughter,” his voice is music, like rain upon the sea, “You are behaving, I trust?”

“Oh Makalaurë! Are you ...well…?” Rananar’s voice hints and tears, and the tall elf gives up any attempt at raising a façade of blitheness.

“Aii! why do I hear sorrow in you voice child? All is well here.”

“How fares he?” Rananar changes the subject, without letting her favorite relation dissuade her interrogation.

Maglor sighs, “Nothing could I ever keep from you, my wise Mellonndil, and no! Don’t look at me like that for using Sindarian… I swear by Arien you are as stubborn as my brother-”

“-which one?” Rananar interrupts wryly
Maglor laughs, and playfully shakes her by the shoulders as if she is a disobedient child. “Eru! Sometimes I don’t know!! But you are too much like us, you need better role models… look at Finrod, while we were to arrogant to discover the great allies to be found among the Secondborn he greatly benefited from their friendship and so now we continue to seek the aid and friendship of our kindred here and-”

“I would be asking for the Sun herself if I sought any better role model,” Rananar retorts, without letting him finish. They have had this argument a thousand times, and though Maglor speaks with laughter now, Rananar knows that he is truly consumed with guilt-born pain. He is endlessly fond of this fiery she-elf, but it is because of his love that he had sought to distance himself from her, and indeed all others. Trapped by blood and loyalty in a Fate he has grown to hate more than unlife, he is always trying to point me in another direction, trying to convince me to tread a path different than the one he is now bemired in…but I will not -angry conviction flares within her soul- I shall go to my death a Fëanorean unless Eru Himself commands me otherwise…

“Maitimo,” Rananar stubbornly adheres to Quenya as she questions Maglor once more.

“Maedhros,” Maglor says gently, taking her slim hand in his. They look at one another for a long time, and Maglor is unabel to hide the pain in his eyes from his devoted neice...looking up abruptly after several minutes, Maglor searches the room for his brothers.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn pulled back hard on the reins, stopping Nárë suddenly. He wheeled around to face the other rider, who was behind her, heading towards the city. She watched him ride, her sharp elf-eyes able to clearly see his face. His handsome face, she thought, then laughed aloud at herself for acting so strangely. Any feeling, especially attraction towards another, she tried incessantly to repress; for the last several years she had had few problems like the one she faced now.

She was suddenly yearning to interact with other people. News of the battle of Unnumbered Tears had reached her, when last she passed through a town. She thought vaguely of her brother Aerion, wondering if he had fought in that battle. Aerlinn had not thought of him in a long while; she tried not to, as it hurt her heart. He had been the only person who had not opted for her to be banished. Suddenly she shook her head; coming out of her thoughts she noticed that she was still halted, facing the Man. With a cry of frustration she turned sharply, and started off again. Slowly she rode, resting Nárë. Her black hair had come loose, and strands of it blew in front of her face. Absently she brushed them away, trying to brush away her confusion.
~Telu :flamer:

[Melathwen]

Melathwen watched the elf leave, then the human follow her. The other elf didn't leave, however. She reflected that it was probably because the first were on horses, yet she had none. Melathwen had two, however. Her mare, Malhiria, and a new colt, whom she had yet to name. He was the first foal Malhiria had had, and Melathwen was attempting to train him as a warhorse. She knew he would never be as fast as his mother, but he would probably be strong, well-suited to fighting.

Riding out cautiously, in case the maiden was hostile, Melathwen extended her hand, free of her bow or sword, to show she meant peace. The maiden's eyes were wary, but she seemed to accept Melathwen. Melathwen herself was wary, not having been out alone much. She hadn't been out alone ever, until she... left. Yes, that was what she had done. She had not run away. But she wasn't going back.

Dismounting quickly, Melathwen went forwards, Malhiria and her foal following closely. When she was just a few feet in front of the elf, she stopped. The maiden's silver-grey eyes met her own blue ones, and her dark hair waved in a gentle breeze. Melathwen's own gold hair was braided tightly down her back, swining gently as she moved. The motion had been annoying at first, but she was used to it now.

'My name is Melathwen,' she said softly, hoping the elf spoke the same language; she only spoke one herself, having been too young when she... left... to have learnt another. Her eyes showed recognition, which Melathwen took to mean that she did speak the same language.

'I am Acharne,' she said, even more softly. Even her voice was beautiful. Melathwen was somewhat ashamed of her deep, rough voice, but there was little she could do about it, though she had tried. Often.

'I see that you have no horse,' Melathwen continued. 'If you want to, you can ride Malhiria. Daeroch is not trained yet.' Until she said the word, she hadn't realised that was what she was going to call the colt. But she realised that the name fit. Malhiria was golden, as her name suggested, graceful and elegant, and very swift. But Daeroch was pure black, frisky yet with youth, but he promised to be an excellent mount. The small, white star on his forehead gave his face character, and Melathwen aleardy knew that he was a cheeky little thing. A small, satisfied grin spread her lips as the name settled in her mind.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn was approaching the city now, her emotions still confusing her immensely. She was about to pass the city, then had a sudden change of heart. The man had intrigued her, and she wanted to see him again. She knew he didn't want to see her, but for some reason she simply didn't care. She had to see him again; to explain her reason for following him earlier. He was obviously confused by it, and she wanted to explain herself.

She jerked the reins hard to the left, turning sharply towards the city. She entered the gate, then uncertainly halted. She didn't know this place, and did not know where to go. So she waited by the gate, waiting for him.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand finally reached the city, riding slowly through the gates. Once on the other side, however, he stopped his horse, wondering where he was even going. Should he go home? What was there worth going back to? He could go back to the pub he had spent most of last night in. The thought had barely entered his brain when he was nudging Erelas in that direction. He didn't really want more drink, and he knew it was bad for him and just clouded his senses and made him emotional, but what else could he do?

The pub was near to the gates, so he didn't need to ride far through the city. Though the ride was slow because of the crowded streets. He tied Erelas to the post out front, then went into the dim common room of the pub. He took a seat at the bar and ordered hard whiskey. When the drink came he didn't take a sip at first, but sat there, staring into his mug, his mind wandering back in time to when days were peaceful and full of purpose. Back before his life was no longer worth living.

[Melathwen]

'I beg your pardon, my lady, but my brother has arrived and I must speak with him.' Amras truly was sorry to have to leave her beautiful company, but he did have to speak to Maglor. He bowed again and left her before she could protest.

Cerridwen watched Amras across the room, but quickly lost sight of him amid the diners. She sighed, and turned to go toward the table and eat her own meal. To her surprise, though, she saw Amras stood in front of her once more. She made a swift curtsy to him while considering what she could say.

'You were quick talking to your brother,' she said. A fleeting look of surprise and confusion passed across his face before understanding shone from his blue eyes. Looking at them and trying to discern the emotions they hid in their depths, she noticed just how blue they were. A deep blue, like to the sky at night, velvety and soft.

'My brother rarely has many words to speak, my Lady,' he replied, taking her arm and leading her to a seat beside his own. 'I do not believe you have eaten yet today, and you must be hungry.' Nodding agreement, Cerridwen let him guide her, and fill her plate with dainties. She laughed as he talked, but he did persist in calling her 'my Lady'.

'Please, Amras, my name is Cerridwen. I am no lady,' she said. He laughed at her words, and a pleased look that she didn't understand crossed his face before he pulled it to smoothness once more. Conversation flowed easily, and he delighted in her merry laugh. At the end of the meal, he bid her come with him to the gardens, telling her they were very pretty and she should definitely see them. He caught his twin's eye before he left, and spoke quickly with him. His twin nodded, a grin stealing across his face, and slipped from the hall.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn had seen the Man enter the city, then head off into the crowd. Nárë stepped carefully, not used to the feeling of stone under his hooves. She followed him, with some difficulty because of the crowded street. The man entered what seemed to be a pub, tying his mare to a post by the entrance. Aerlinn smiled; a drink certainly sounded welcome. She had always been fond of a good ale, though it was frowned upon by the other elves in her home, before she was banished from that place.

She tied Nárë up beside the bay mare, patting his neck as she dismounted. "I shall be back soon," she whispered to him. Without hesitating she entered the bar, then slunk up to the counter. She ordered two ales, to the barman's surprise (which he made no effort to hide), then went to a table in a corner. The man she pursued was at the bar, staring thoughtfully into his mug. She didn't look at him, and didn't know if he had noticed her. He will, she thought with a grin. She took a sip of her ale, leaning back in her chair.
~Telu :flamer:

[Evenstar]

Acharne was surprised at the generosity of the strange elf... no, Melathwen, she had said her name was.

'Th... thank you,' she answered, shyly. She could not understand why the stranger had offered her a horse when she hardly knew Acharne. Melathwen smiled when she saw her offer had been accepted.

Acharne studied the golden-haired elf. She had strange customs for one of her race - her hair was worn as a single plait, as Acharne had seen only humans wear it, and her voice had a strange accent to it that Acharne could not place.

'I have no destination,' she told Melathwen. 'It would be my pleasure to ride with you.'

[Telumehtar]

The girl was sipping her drink quietly, humming an Elvish tune under her breath. She was watching the man out of the corner of her eye, wondering. He was staring into his mug disconsolately. She continued to watch him, thinking.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand finished his drink, then ordered another. He did not move from the bar, nor turned to look behind him at the many other people in the room. He mostly just stared into his mug. For an hour he sat there. Three mugs of whiskey later he finally got up, paid the tab, then turned to leave. But he stopped short when he saw a familiar figure at a table in the corner. His face went into a scowl when he saw her. She was looking at him directly and their gazes locked for a moment.

But before it was too late he tore his eyes away and turned and left the building. But in that one moment he felt something. Something he hadn't felt in many years. That was the desire for companionship. He had felt it just then when she looked at him. But all it did was frighten him, causing him to run from it.

Once outside he paused in front of his mare for a moment, trying to gather his thoughts, which were slightly muddled from the whiskey. He stroked Erelas' mane and sighed. "What is wrong with me?" he asked the horse quietly.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn smiled, still sipping from her second mug and thinking of the man. When he had met her gaze she had seen something in his eyes...something she couldn't identify. Oh, how she wished she knew his name! She quickly got up, finishing her drink, and walked toward the door, then stopped midstride. She could see him through a window, standing with his mare. She paused, trying to decide whether she should risk another confrontation with him. A change had come over her in the last few hours, and it surprised her immensely: she was not as shy as usual today. Normally she never wanted to speak to anyone, but he was different. Aerlinn smiled to herself, then walked through the door out into the light.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

(I know I'm stupposed to be gone, but my trip was delayed one day, so I thought I'd just post again while I have the chance ;) )

Brand heard the sound of the pub door opening and he glanced over his shoulder, not at all surprised to see the elf-maiden standing there. She was watching him, which annoyed him slightly. Why was she following him? He went around the to left side of his horse and began tightening the saddle cinch. He glanced up at the elf again, this time looking directly into her eyes with a gaze that was piercing.

"You are very persistent," he said, his tone impassive. "Why do you still follow me? Do you just enjoy being a pest, or do you have a death wish?" He finished what he was doing, then came around to her side of the horse again, standing before her, his arms crossed on his chest, the expression on his face demanding that his questions be answered. "Speak, woman. What is your intent?"

[Telumehtar]

Immediately Aerlinn noticed the man's anger, but did not regret confronting him yet again. She met his gaze and did not look away. "No, I do not have a death wish...nor would you be the one to fulfill it if I did. I follow you simply because I seek to be around other people again, and you intrigue me." She was frank, as she always was; she had never seen any need to be subtle in any situation. She noticed him cross his arms, and she wondered if this was supposed to be a threatening gesture, or one of discomfort. Either way, it did not intimidate her.
~Telu :flamer:

[Evenstar]

The two elves had been riding in silence for a while. Acharne wanted totalk to the other maiden, to ask her why she had made such a sudden act of generosity, and to find out whrere she was from. But the dark-haried elf found her tongue stuck in her mouth when ever she tried to ask.

Melathwen said suddenly, 'We must find somewhere to stop soon. The horses are weary.'

Acharne was feeling tired as well, though she was too proud to admit it. 'Yes, I think you are right. Do you see that overhang on the left? We can rest there.'

Under the shelter of the rock Acharne felt her worries ebb away and her confidence grow. Melathwen was tending to the horses, Acharne would have helped her but the golden-haired elf had said she'd do it all herself.

Watching her out of one eye, Acharne saw the love and care that her companion gave to the horses. She thought it strange that someone could care so much for a simple beast.

She asked shyly, 'Will you tell me about yourself, Melathwen? Where do you come from?'

[Ceri Bloom]

Cerridwen had had such a wonderful lunch with this youth loving elf, and she didnt want it to stop. When Amras proposed a walk through the gardens, she immediately agreed. It sounded mysterious and, in an odd way, romantic. Cerridwen laughed inwardly at her silly girlish fantasies and agreed to meet Amras by the old wooden bridge over the stream. He said he had some business to attend to first.

Picking up a small flask of water from the hall Cerridwen walked through the thronging crowds that filled the beautiful place. a strange sensation down her back caused her to look around. An elf, dressed in a crimson gown was talking in the corner with a tall cloaked elf. This fiery elf intrigued Cerridwen and she would've liked to talk to her, but now was not the time. Skipping gaily back to her room she tossed aside the water flask and picked up a simple diamond jewel that had been left on her table. Wondering at it's beauty and its origin Cerridwen smiled to herself. Fixing the diamond in her hair, she stroked her strange furry friend and began to wonder towards the gardens and the fabled bridge.

[Melathwen]

Will you tell me about yourself, Melathwen? Where do you come from?

Melathwen stiffened at the soft voice of her companion. It was the question she hated most, the question she had little answer for. And even that much was painful. It was also the reason she had avoided others' company since... well, since it happened. She sighed and straightened from where she had been checking Daeroch's hoof. She knew he didn't really need it, but he was not trained yet, and she wanted him to cooperate when he did need it.

'There is not much to tell,' she replied, leaving her horses and going to join her young companion. 'I was born in Aman, and followed my father into exile, though I am but half Noldorin. He was killed in the first war, and after that, there was nothing left.My brother did not remain long, and since then I have wandered alone.' She could not keep the anger and sadness from her voice. It was beyond her powers to do so when she spoke of her father. 'But what of you?'

[Friend of Maglor]

Meanwhile, in one of many temporary encampments in the wild, the eldest son of Fëanor sat, buried in deep thought and remembrances:

Neither Vala, nor demon, nor elf, nor man as yet unborn…….

“You wanted to see us, brother?”
The posture of Curufin’s slight frame exuded arrogance, and his venomous green eyes flashed pride. A mocking laugh seemed to hang about the corners of his mouth….different, and yet the same, he had thought… his mouth always looked as if it had been made for laughing, the one clear distinction from the features that so closely mirrored his father’s… but fate and pride had twisted mirth into bitterness..“No Curufinwë….. I didn’t want to see you. But it has been made necessary by your own actions.”

“You are going to rebuke us for adhering to our Oath, Maitimo?”
Celegorm pulled himself upright with crossed arms and a menacing glare. Strong of build with light brown hair, bound out of his face…a face with eyes that glinted, eyes with no mercy behind them Yet he had not been such either….. Tyelkormo….hasty riser….. a quick temper you have always had, brother, but brave and strong it was then….what is it now? Warped into cruelty by greed… and sorrow too, for Aredhel was slain and Luthien was never meant to be yours…

Shall hold, or take, or keep……….

“No.” he had answered strongly, and was cut by Maglor’s glance… “Not by your goal am I angered, but by your methods. We are to use arms and valor to re take what is our own-” Maglor looked at him again, a question in his eyes: “Valor?” But he had clenched hit teeth and continued, “…not lies and deceit, least of all misbegotten plans born whose point’….his voice rose angrily….. “is less to re capture the Jewels that to send men and kin to their deaths!”

For one, short instant, something other than anger flicked in Curufin’s green eyes…but it was gone so fast that Maedhros had thought he imagined it.

They had left soon after. He didn’t care where. He was too busy fighting himself. And Maglor’s eyes, cutting him, they kept cutting him deep. How could he still cling to the vain hope of goodness? Did he think that they could be remembered by what good they did? NO! Maedhros slammed his fist against the wall, hard.

“Leave me…” he whispered viciously, trying to still the voices I his head…
… Neither Vala nor demon nor elf, or man as yet unborn, shall hold, or take, or keep………

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

“It is final.”

Rananar stood opposite Maglor, her hands on her hips in defiance.

"I am going with you, Makalaurë."

Maglor sighed, and pushed his hand through his loose black hair in frustration. She doesn't know, she doesn't see. I can't drag her down the wrong path with us. Why can't she admire the good that others do here? She is loyal, but loyal to the point that she lets her love cloud her judgement......I don't want her to become like us.....she can't

"Rananar-"

"Maglor," she interuppted him, and he was surprised to hear her use Sindar, with only a slight accent she does practice it he thought wryly..

"I want to be near the brothers now....I....I feel that something will change soon, there is unrest in all of you, and it has been so long since I have seen Maitim....Maedhros, please Maglor"

She would plead, now he couldn't say no....she had nothing else... unwilling grow close to any one not of the Fëanorean house, she had nothing but her pride. Her had taken her here to stay wit the twins, follow them in their removed woodland life, but it was not fit to her temperment at all.

"We leave at first light" he said at last.

"I will be ready." she smiled from the depths of her soul.

Ready for anything Makalaurë, you can be sure of that. It had been long since she had spoken to Curufin, and she wasn't sure if he would speak to her anymore, she rolled her eyes at the thought of his arrogance; nevertheless, she liked him...... but what he had done to Finrod upset her greatly- she had deeply respected the King- and she wanted to talk to him.....I want to speak with ALL of them, she thought laughingly.

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

Maglor walked into the court The most permanent of the twin's dwellings, this place was hewn of wood, and strong despite its lack of masonry. He began walking through corridors, searching for his youngest brothers.

[Bane of Lunazra]

“Here sis,” Leiaron’s hand gently pushed my forefinger and thumb to the shaft of the arrow and pulled my elbow back in a fluid motion. I centered my thoughts on the target etched into the trunk of our favorite tree. I longed with all my might to please my brother and get my shot into the needle-like center. He let go off my arm. Snap! The arrow flopped off of the bow in disapproval as my arm could not support the tension of the pull. “No,” I sighed and snatched another arrow from my brother’s quiver. “Again,” I said sternly to his tired face. His crystalline blue eyes shined with contentment and he grinned. “All right but let us go home for the day if you cannot do it this time,” he smirked. His limber form bent down to retrieve the short, powerful bow lying in the grass. “Of course I can,” I retorted in determination. I loaded the arrow into the knock and pulled my arm back slowly. The arrow slightly rattled as I braced my strength against the toughness of the bow.

“Now, Ailnoriel, make sure your thumb is in perfect alignment with your eye.” I followed his instruction and waited for further advice. “Good,” he said, “now, use your dominant eye to glance at the target…” I altered my vision in compliance. “In a real battle, you must always be aware of your surroundings, so focus your mind on the task and hand while shifting your balance and searching around you for other enemies.” I shuffled my feet into an offensive stance and furrowed my brow in concentration. My orange pupils narrowed to dark slits as I completely follow suit. The weight of the arrow was becoming unbearable. “Good, now focus and believe and you can… Know you can.” Leiaron motioned to the target.

I pulled the sinew further, pushing my limits into larger depths. “Now!” he shouted. I let go, closing my eyes, visualizing a straight shot. A furious whoosh escaped into the afternoon air. I opened my eyes suddenly and gazed at the target. I could see the feathers of my arrow pierced into the heart of the bark but my mind was too shocked to register. I looked at my brother, trying to confirm my utter state of shock.
I knew he would be proud of… “Leiaron?”

I glanced around the field, frightened, my older sibling nowhere to be seen. “Leiaron!” I yelled again, helpless. The thin blades of grass swayed in obedience as the wind attempted to point me in the direction of my lost companion.

“Noo! Stop now! Get off of me you half-wits!”

‘Huh?’ I thought as a fuzzy picture of my brother played like undeveloped film in my thoughts. I grimaced, waiting for more.

Leiaron notched two arrows and pulled them back on the bow in a savagely sweeping gesture. His tall, muscular form lashed out against his attackers, his light-brown hair masking infuriation. “I’ll shoot all of you if I must,” he yelled. A cloaked form pulled back his hood and gazed intently at Lei. He pulled out a sharp sword from his belt and pushed it towards my brother’s gullet. “Leiaron Dailwe, you are henceforthe banished from this land for murdering two elven soldiers of great rank,” the grim statue of my brother’s childhood friend uttered morbidly.

Leiaron dropped his arrows to the ground, his deep eyes opening into orbs of light tears. “Wha…” he stammered, completely dazed, “Rhivle, you know that I would never commit such an offense… Surely, you know…haven’t you checked orders from my superior? He knew of my absence from the battle and was aware of my circum…” “Seize him!” Rhivle issued mercilessly. Several armed guards pressed in around Leiaron’s sunken form. He fought back relentlessly, cursing furiously in our tongue and flailing his dangerous limbs at the guards.

“Noooo!” I could see them hurting Leiaron! An exasperated scream of pain echoed distantly in the dark wood. “No! Leiaron! Wait!” I shouted into the vast plain. I grabbed my bow and quiver and swung them over my small shoulders, racing madly towards the forest. The sound of clashing metal echoed like a pang in my mind. My calves quaked upon impact of the tough ground and I pumped my body into running faster. ‘No! I’ll never make it…I’m not fast enough…’ I reached the edge of the field and dodged into the forest, making my way like a swift dart through the looming trees. My dark, long hair flew out from my body as I paced myself, hurdling over small branches, my heart pumping furiously in my chest. I could see the blood flowing from my feet being slowly torn up by sharp twigs, but I didn’t care. My will was bent only on my older brother and the sensation of having his warm, loving arms around me again. ‘The clearing I saw! I was here!’ I looked around eagerly, defensively pulling my bow into my hands and cocking an arrow into the string. The clearing was completely devoid of any life and my heart sunk like a stone. Drops of old blood littered the grass several feet away. ‘Oh my god… they killed him…’ The words came to my mind as thunder clapped above the treetops.

Tears rolled down my fair skin uncontrollably and I released my arrow into the trees in hatred. I buried my face in my hands. “Nooooooooooooo!”
__________________________________________________ _______________

Moonlight filtered down through the treetops as I sat up sharply, drawing my two thin daggers from my boot in defense. I glared into the dark night as I realized I had been submerged in yet another nightmare. Sweat and tears were trickling down my cheeks, mixing into a salty solution of despair. I swore to the air in the common tongue and got up, my black-coated stallion gazing at me in wonder. I rubbed my forehead and wiped the weakness off of my face. “Hey Shai,” I whispered, my voice shaking softly from the pain etched in my heart. Shailnwin pushed his dark, beautiful head up against my arm and nuzzled me in silent comfort. I couldn’t stand it anymore… I looked into his deep beaded eyes and failed to keep my composure.

I silently hugged my horse’s head and neck, tears endlessly dripping from my now glossy green pupils. Wrapping my silken cloak around my slender body, I edged away from my great animal and put out the small campfire I had built for the night. The flickering flames issued a warm sense of strength and I built upon it, telling myself everything was fine. Gazing up at the stars, I felt guided into a state of control. I mounted Shai and we rode off into the black forest. A swift breeze blew through my hair, altering my mood, soothing my longing, and encouraging Shai’s speed. The dark Earth melted away as we surged into the night, searching for a place of solitude and freedom from our shadowed life…

[Melathwen]

Amras wondered in the dirrection of Maglor, trying not to look as if he was hurrying. It was a while since he had seen his brother, and he wondered what news Maglor had brought.

Mae govannen, brother,' he said as he got close enough. Maglor spun, the grin that grew on his face large but mostly sorrowful. Amras' face fell, and he wondered what bad news his brother had brought. 'What is it?' he asked, anxious to know the worst at once.

'What is what?' Amrod asked, coming up behind Amras. Maglor looked between the two, as bewildered as everyone else at which was which when they dressed alike. Even after all these years, he had not learned to tell them apart. Not that they made that particularly easy.

[Wilwarin]

Brand raised one eyebrow at the elf-maiden. "I intrigue you?" he said, then laughed mirthlessly, shaking his head. He turned back to his mare, gently stroking her silky neck. "Why should I intrigue you, my Lady?" he asked softly, his earlier anger dispelled, replaced by bitter defeat. "We are surrounded by a whole town of people that could keep you company, why choose me? I seek only the companionship of my horse and the open sky." He turned back to her, his grey eyes searching her green ones.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn stared into his eyes and answered truthfully. "Yes, you do intrigue me. As to why...there is something about you. You seem to have lost something, as have I. You seem to be running from your past....as I deny to be, but am. This is why." The girl had not looked away. She patted her stallion's nose, and waited for him to speak again.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand's face hardened again at her words and he looked away. "I run from nothing," he said quietly. Then he quickly mounted his horse, but instead of riding away he stayed there and looked down at the elf-maiden. "You are elf-kind," he said, his voice still quiet. "Your people do not readily seek the companionship of Men." He paused. "What is your name?"

[Telumehtar]

She noticed the look in his eye at his words, when he said he ran from nothing. Aerlinn could tell he was not being truthful, but decided to be tactful and ignore it. She kept a steady gaze on him as he mounted his mare. She turned her head sharply at the call of a bird, then looked back at him. He looked down at her from his horse. "My name is Aerlinn," she said softly. "What is yours?"
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

"I am Brand," he said shortly. He spurred his horse toward her, stopping only a foot away and leaning down slightly. "Aerlinn, you seek something in me that you will not find. But I admire persistence, so... I will not run from you any more." He paused, and looked down the street, drawing a quick sigh. "My house is not far from here," he said, pausing again, not sure if he should go through with what he meant to say. "Would you like to come back with me?" he finally managed. "For a drink? Though I do not promise to be very good company. Your choice." With that he turned his horse and spurred her in the direction of his house, not waiting for the elf to answer.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn grinned at his invitation. She leaped onto Nárë's back, and nudged him in the ribs. He reacted immediately, jumping into a run. "Brand," she whispered. "Nice to meet you, mellon nin." The girl followed the Man out onto the street, toward his house.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand didn't look behind him to see if the elf was following, he knew she would. But as his mare led him closer and closer to his own house he began to wonder why in Beleriand did he invite her along? He didn't want company, not in his own house and especially not from a woman—and elf at that! He shook his head slightly, angry with himself. He didn't want to get involved with anyone. He wanted to live life as he had been for the last ten years, and that was alone.

But this elf was so persistent, he knew, that for whatever reason, she wasn't going to leave him alone until he gave her some of his time. So that is what he would do. He would have her over for a drink, have a short chat, be as unfriendly as possible without being rude, and hope that she will tire of him and finally leave. Yes, that is what he will do.

The ride down the street was far to short for Brand's taste, he would rather have ridden to East Beleriand before dismounting and facing the elf-maiden again. But here he was, and he could sense her on her horse behind him. He was committed, and couldn't back out now.

He dismounted, keeping the expression on his face impassive. He tied Erelas to the post by the door, then turned to Aerlinn.

"Here is my house, please come inside," he said, opening the front door. He thought about offering her his arm, but then decided against it. He would not be that polite. So instead he just stood aside and let her go in first.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn could sense his reluctance in inviting her, but he had mentioned that he admired persistance. Not that she wanted to be admired, but persistance was one thing she had much of, she told herself. She tied Nárë with Brand's mare, then entered the house. She pulled her hair back with a bit of leather strip, feeling awkward and not knowing what to do with her hands. Once done with her hair (which was miraculously unknotted despite the ride) she stood, hands lax at her sides, waiting. "You have a nice home," she said, not knowing what else to say.

Oh, Aerlinn, you fool, she though to herself. Why did you ever follow this Man in the first place? But she had no answers to her own questions.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

"Thanks," Brand said bluntly, then he led the way to the second level of the house and into his study where he spent most of his time. It was a large room, well furnished with couches and a large desk. A fireplace was on one wall, but the hearth was cold. On the other side of the room from the door was a tall window overlooking the street. Brand went to his desk, searching for a wine bottle that still contained some wine. There were several empty ones and it was a moment before he found what he was looking for. Then he had to search even harder for two cups. Since he usually drank right from the bottle.

But at last he found some and poured each of them a cup of wine. He handed one of them to the elf without a word, then downed his quickly. He set the cup on the desk, then sat down heavily on one of the couches. He looked up at her, not saying anything. Waiting for her to speak first.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn sat awkwardly, lowering herself onto a different couch slowly. She took her drink silently, then emptied it as quickly as the man had. Then she looked to him, taking in the sight of his strained face. "Thank you," she said. "For the drink, and for allowing me to come. I know I must have confused you....about why I followed you, I mean. But it is for no other reason than that you interest me, as I have already stated." She looked into his grey eyes, eyes that she suspected had once been less cold than they were now.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand sighed. "Yes, you have stated that already, though your reasons still escape me." He sighed again and finally looked away. "My Lady, I have never invited anyone here like this, and especially not a woman. And now that I think on it, I feel that it is rather inappropriate, I'm sorry."

He stood abruptly and walked to the tall window on the other side of the room. He was silent for a while, looking out at the street below. "You say I interest you, he finally said. "But what do you want with me?" He turned around and looked at her, his eyes pleading with her to tell the truth.

[Evenstar]

Acharne glanced at the sun-haired elf seated beside her. She could tell her companion was uneasy about the question, and Acharne regretted asking it. She wondered what it was that caused the pain in the other maiden's eyes.

'Of me?' she repeated Melathwen's question. 'I have travelled alone these past two centuries. This is the first occasion for quite some time that I have had a companion.'

When it became clear Acharne was not going to continue, Melathwen prompted her, her clear voice saying quietly, 'And before?'

Before? Melathwen had gone into more detail than she would on the subject of the past. Acharne felt a little guilty; after all, she had asked the question first, and the other elf had given her an answer, even if it was vague. But she had to draw the line somewhere, and she would make no exceptions.

'It is not important.'

Acharne had mastered her technique: the cold, distant tone of her voice prevented Melathwen from inquiring further, and the conversation was halted.

The sun was slowly sinking, turning the skies above them into a myriad of colours rarely seen in the lands they walked. Acharne had been riding slightly behind her companion, after their discussion earlier neither had said much to the other. But now she felt she could not continue her aimless way. She had company for once, even if she had not treated Melathwen as well as she should. Acharne was reluctant to leave, and be alone again.

She rode a little faster, still wary of her mount. Melathwen apparently realised that the dark-haried elf was trying to catch up, and waited for her.

Acharne spoke shyly, her earlier guilt still had not quite faded away. 'I thank you, for lending me your horse.' She halted, unsure of what she was next going to say, but Melathwen's calm face reassured her and she continued. 'If you wish, I can continue on foot from here. But I had forgotten what it was like to have company, to have someone to talk to. May I... may I stay with you?'

She had hurried the end of her request; she was nervous, hoping the other elf wanted company as well. Melathwen seemed to be thinking. Finally she said, 'You may ride with me, if that is what you wish.'

'Thank you, Melathwen.' Acharne was truly grateful. 'So where are we going?'

[Friend of Maglor]

Three horses, one dappled grey, one irongrey with a white mane that hung in braids, and one deep brown, were walking southeast to Maedhros encampment near Nan-Tathren in Sirion, with a small guard following. An elf clad in murky blue rode the first. A she-elf in a russet leather riding smock- worn over a grey tunic and breeches- followed, her thick black hair bound up with silver wire. The third horse carried two trunks and a large bundle balanced between them. The Star of Feanor was broidered in white upon the sleeve of the first, and it flashed as a crystal pendant hanging from the neck of the second. Both were silent as they rode, cloaked in their own thought.

*Maglor had forgotten that I bear my books with me wherever I go*

This thought made her smile. All of her cloaks, gowns, and jewelry she owned could fit into one pack- for so elven clothing was made- but the two trunks contained books of lore and history, of tale-craft and poetry, which her parents had brought out of Valinor. She would never consent to be parted from them. Maglor had made much of traveling light and the danger of traveling with such unneeded luggage in such a dangerous time, but he had consented, partly, she knew, out of his own great love of word-lore.

“We draw nigh Rananar, we shall arrive within the hour,” Maglor said.

He settled back into his own thought again. He was thinking of his last meeting with his twin brothers. He shook his head.

*They cannot escape themselves for long, though they make a good act out of trying… I should not visit again, they are better cut off from us… maybe they can…just…*

He clenched his teeth. They couldn’t escape the family fate. He had hinted that only as long as Luthien, the dead-that-lived, possessed the Silmaril, could they go on ignoring their Oath. But even she would not now live forever.

Tired, he pushed the thought out of his mind.

*Let them live. Let them love. Let them find themselves and what joy they may. He would just tell Maedhros they weren’t joining them yet. He hadn’t the heart to ask them to.*

He was glad Rananar couldn’t see his face, she would know his thoughts and be concerned. He couldn’t deny her, but he wished she would settle down and…he didn’t know. He knew she could never live free of cares, but he hoped she could live free of hate. The deaths of her mother and father, as well as her closeness to himself, Curufin, and the other brothers, had bred deep prejudices within her. He feared that her loyalty would come before her sense of right and wrong….

*as ours has…* he thought bitterly

• * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
As soon as they arrived, Rananar had her quarters made ready, changing clothes quickly. She was eager to greet the brothers, but she had missed Nan-Tathren very much since her last visits. Slipping out of her shoes, she pulled a wispy dress of dark red over her head, then loosed her black hair as she seldom did, letting it fall past her waist in deep ebon waves. Her eyes looked wild, but not with violence as usual, but with the uncaring mischief of a child’s. There was something she had been longing to do…

Leaping silently down several steps, she reached the dark trees. Maglor would have berated her severly, Gorthaur’s evil settling upon the former Tol-Sirion made every wood dangerous, but she didn’t care. Tripping lightly along the soft moss with unshod feet, she began to run. Faster and faster, twisting in circles, twining in and out of trees, flying over stones and logs, filling with a madcap joy. She had been bound up to long, now she was loosing all her feelings in the swift motions of her feet. Not a soft dance, but a leaping, jumping, spinning, cataract of spirit. Her soul was in it. She didn’t care if anyone saw her. Her red gown fluttered about her like true fire, and her black hair poured over her shoulders, trickling about her pale face like ink. Eyes closed, she was in her own world. Unaware that she was being watched…

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn sighed inwardly. You foolish elf, what have you gotten yourself into? she asked herself. "No," she said to Brand, "you have not been innapropriate. But as for my reasoning...I really am sorry about your confusion. I am confused myself." She looked down at her lap, toying with her old ring nervously. "I have not seen another face in so long, and I found you interesting immediately...because of your appearance and the fact that you seem to have had a past similar to my own. Painful, perhaps. I do not ask you to discuss it, and I want nothing from you. This is the truth. I should go; I have inconvenienced you enough." The Elf rose gracefully, her cheeks hot. Again she amazed herself at her eagerness to speak, such a change from her usual silence.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand watched her head to the door and he was relieved to know that she was leaving. But before he could stop himself he took one step forward. "It is no inconvenience," he said, shocking even himself. Why did he say that? The elf-maiden stopped and turned back to look at him.

Brand's mind was racing. Now what? What did he want? He wanted this woman out of his house and out of his life... didn't he? Suddenly he wasn't so sure. The funny thing was, she intrigued him as well. And for the first time in the last ten years he had had a full several moments where he wasn't dwelling on his past or his hurts.

He walked toward Aerlinn, stopping only two feet away. He reached out and took her chin gently between his thumb and forefinger, turning her face up to face his. He looked deeply into her eyes, as if trying to read something in them. For several intense moments they remained thus, as Brand tried to decide what he wanted.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn stared into Brand's deep grey eyes. She read uncertainty there, and something else....something hidden. Her heart raced as it never had before. For the first time in years, she felt no anger, no resentment. He did that to her, made her forget the past and live in the moment, confusing though the moment was. She kept her eyes on his, waiting for him to speak.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand lifted his hand from her chin and fingered a lock of hair that was falling over her forehead. But then, as if just realizing what he was doing, he dropped his hand to his side. He looked at her for a moment longer, then turned and went back over to his desk. He poured himself another glass of wine and downed it in one gulp. Silence hung in the air between them for several long moments.

Brand knew that if she walked out that door he would never see her again. And his house would be quiet once more. He would be alone again. But now, that idea didn't sound as nice as it had only an hour ago. He realized for the first time in so long that he was lonely. And this elf, she was different than others. What was it about her? He didn't know, all he knew was that he wanted to know her better.

Finally he looked up. "I...I don't want you to go," he said, his voice nearly a whisper. "Stay?"

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn's heart was still beating fast. When he had touched her hair, she had been afraid it would burst from her chest. But then he walked over to his desk again, and her smile dropped from her face. He took a drink; she waited by the door, uncertain.

He finally looked up at her. "I...I don't want you to go," he said softly. Was she really hearing this? She wasn't sure. "Stay?" he asked. Aerlinn smiled at him, the corners of her grin trembling. A solitary tear of joy rose in her eye, then spilled over to her cheek; she wiped it away hastily. Someone wanted her around? It was too good to be true. And I only met him today, she thought. After all these years of solitude, she had made a friend in a few short hours. And perhaps more, a voice in her head whispered. Whatever Brand was to be, she was grateful for him.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand saw the tear and it confused him slightly, but he said nothing and kept his face impassive.

Now what?

A moment of awkward silence descended. Aerlinn stood there looking at him, not turning to leave and not coming back into the room. So was she staying or leaving? He motioned to one of the couches. "Well, if you're going to stay, then please sit down. I don't like to keep guests standing in the doorway." He laughed bitterly. "Not that I've ever had guests here," he admitted. Then he glanced up at her while he poured himself another glass of wine. "Would you like another one?"

[Hobbit]

Mornar had followed the she-elf all the way from the camp to the dark trees in the middle of the forest. She was running faster and faster, leaving the encampment far behind her. Mornar felt it as his duty to get her back.
The forrest was way too dangerous for those who wander with an occupied mind and without arms.

Besides, Maedhros had strictly forbidden anyone to leave the encampment. It was his job as a guard to see to it that no one did.
Rananar's red dress danced around her like a tongue of fire, as she increased her speed even more. Her eyes were closed, but she stilled managed to avoid all logs, stones and branches with ease, as if she had every little obstacle in the forrest memorized in detail. Her moves were elegant and smooth.
Unfortunately, Mornar was not blessed with the same grace. He tried desperately to keep up with her as he struggled his way past trees, logs and branches. He should have called out for her, but for some unexplainable reason, he didn't want to disturb her. He didn't want to break the trance she was in. And so he followed silently.

Eventually she slowed down and stopped by a small open spot in the woods, surrounded by a bunch of big black trees. Her long black hair, that had been fluttering in the wind, fell back in place. As she was seemingly resting, Mornar knew this was his chance to get close to her. But he still didn't dare to break the silence, to disturb the soft sounds of nature. He was afraid of the fiery spirit he had instantly recognized in her. A spirit very alike that of Curufin, Caranthir and the other sons of Feanor.
And so he just stared at her from a distance. Until she suddenly turned towards him and opened her eyes. Mornar had been discovered.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn's grin widened. She left the doorway and sat on the couch opposite him. "Thank you....Brand." She spoke his name tentatively. "And as for the drink, yes, another would be nice." She smiled at him, her eyes still misty.

Her unusual talkativeness had disappeared, and she was quiet again. No what could she say to him? She was curious about his past, but of course would not pry into it. But she could still sense that something was there, in his past, lurking and hidden, that needed to come out. Some people face their demons, Aerlinn. But you flee yours, her brother Aerion had once said. It was true, and she suspected it was the same with Brand.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand poured the elf-maiden another glass of wine, then handed it to her with a slight bow of his head. He thought of pouring himself another one as well, but then changed his mind. If his count was correct, he had already had three glasses, and he would rather remain sober as long as he had company. He knew he was not very nice to be around when he was drunk.

So instead he corked the bottle and put it back on the desk, then sat down on the couch facing Aerlinn. It was silent for a while and quickly grew uncomfortable. Come on, man, think of something to say, she's in YOUR house, you must take the initiative. Right, easier said than done. All this time he had been avoiding her gaze, but finally he glanced back up at her.

"So, my Lady," he said quietly, the corner of his mouth turning up slightly, though not quite a smile. "Where do you hale from?" he asked, attempting conversation.

[Telumehtar]

She took the glass gratefully. She tipped it back and emptied it quickly, knowing that it was too much, and not caring. At his question Aerlinn inhaled sharply, then decided there was no point in being untruthful, even though the truth was a painful tale. But she would not reveal the entire story, however, unless directly asked. "I hail from Doriath, where my people dwell. I have not returned there for many years, however. I do not wish to return to those memories." She was quiet for a moment, reminiscing. Tears had come to her eyes when her thoughts strayed to her brother Aerion, but she blinked hard to repel them. She cleared her throat softly.

"What about yourself, Brand? Where are you from?" she asked curiously, looking up into his bright grey eyes. She wondered what he would tell her. He was interesting, and his own tale would most likely be interesting as well.
~Telu :flamer:

[Friend of Maglor]

As her reverie brought her to a slow halt, the feeling that she was being watched, which had only been a possibility in the back of her head grew to be a certainty. Rananar turned around, and her eyes met those of another elf, Noldorian, she could tell, clad in light armor.

His eyes were grey, like to Rananar’s own, but instead of the sea-like blues and greens that often swirled in hers, there was silver light… like the shining of stars….. or steel. She did not know his face, and thought it strange that they had not met before, but then again, how old was he? It was harder to tell at first glance with the Noldor sometimes… the suffering and wisdom gained by hardships added age to their eyes. But he seemed younger, for though there was the shadow of fate, there was no shade of weariness upon his face. His was not the face of one of the guards she would pass by without a glance; there was a different air about him.

She suddenly was conscious of how wild she must look with her ebony mane hanging down in unfettered waves, and she laughed softly, breaking the silence that hung between their meeting eyes,

“I suppose you have been sent to catch the straying bird… Lord Maedhros must have some law of confinement upon these woods, is it not so?” she looked amused. “But I shall return with you… I have breathed the air and listened to the tree-speech as I desired.” She stepped closer to him and inclined her head, “I am Rananar, daughter of Arheru, though the Seven are my only living kin. To me, Lord Curufin is the nearest in blood. I arrived only today and could not resist,” she looked upward and spread her arms, a breeze caught her long hair and whipped it about, and she met his eyes again, “Tasarinan’s call to me…”

She took another step towards him, and waited for him to speak…as the moon rose above the tangle of willows and threw a weave of silver over the mossy floor...

[Wilwarin]

Brand stared at the carved woodwork on the mantelpiece for a while before answering. "I grew up in Ladros, in Dorthonion," he answered bitterly. He said no more. The fate of Ladros was known all over Beleriand, and he was not going to refresh the story for her ears. He continued to study the woodwork, not liking the way this conversation was going one bit. Outside the sun was beginning to set. In another hour it would be dark.

Brand stood abruptly. "My Lady, I'm sorry. I fear I am neglecting my horse. I need to put her in the stable. You are welcome to put your horse up there as well. It is getting late, and I don't suppose you have arrangements for a place to stay?" He hesitated, scolding himself in the back of his mind even as he continued to speak. "You can stay here tonight, if you wish. I have an extra room."

That's it, the invitation was out there. He couldn't take it back now, and if she accepted, then he would be stuck with her even longer. What are you getting yourself into, man?

[Melathwen]

Melathwen was surprised at her own words. It had been long years since she had sought company, of any kind. Although she had not exactly sought this company. She did not resent Acharne for it, however, knowing that the younger elf felt almost as lonely as she did herself. Melathwen was bitter after the early events of her life, and aged beyond her years. There were few elves who had seen what she had at the age she had been. But, such was her life, and her task was to bear it.

'I do not know. I have not sought company for long years. But do not worry, I find it strangely pleasant. I have nowhere that I am aiming for, save, perhaps, to the old home of two of my dearest friends. But that house is many days' travel away, and the likelihood is that they are not there. They rarely stay in one place for long.' Melathwen spoke of the twins, Amrod and Amras. She had fought beside them, and been encamped with them. Despite being only half Noldorin, they had seemed to like her, a fact which she had found strange, still raw and bitter from her father and brother's deaths.

'Is there anyone you wish to see, or anywhere that you wish to go? I have wondered this land many times over, and there are few places that I do not know, but I have no desire to visit any one in particular.' She spoke almost carelessly, for since she had been left alone, she had cared for very little. She looked over at Acharne, waiting for her answer.

~~~~~~~~~~

Amras wondered into the garden, looking for Cerridwen. He wanted to find her, to renew their brief acquaintance. He knew she would think it longer than it was, for Amrod had intervened and not told her they were twins. They would have some fun with her before she found out, if they could. See how long it took her to realise. Their special bond, and the skill of all elves, would allow them to change seamlessly, and try to confuse her with their chatter.

Eventually, he spotted her walking the paths ahead of him. He knew that Amord had just entered the garden, and was coming in his direction. A grin grew on his youthful face, as he thought of what fun they could have. Being dressed alike certainly had its advantages, and both twins were keen to make use of them.

Spying a small bunch of pretty flowers by the path, Amras stopped to gather a few. When he had a reasonable sized bunch and had schooled his face to an expression similar to the one he knew Amrod would wear for something like this, and laughing softly to himself as he caught his brother's outrage at that, he approached Cerridwen, seemingly casually and incidantally.

[Telumehtar]

The elf-maiden tried to mask her surprise at Brand's answer to her question. So this was his past, eh? Ladros. The land was well-known to her....well, its sad fate was. Now she knew why he seemed melancholy....but was that the whole story? She guessed not, but dared not ask.

At the mention of a place to stay Aerlinn lowered her eyes, cursing herself under her breath. His voice had changed to a colder angry tone. She wished she had not returned his question as to where she was from. Obviously the mention of the land of Ladros had destroyed his good mood. Her brow furrowed into a deep frown. Oh, Aerlinn, what have you done? she asked herself. This man was the first person to ever speak to her since....since she had become a wanderer. Now she had a terrible feeling she had ruined it all. She rose slowly.

"No, I have no arrangements to stay anywhere. But I am afraid I have overstayed my welcome, Brand. I also must tend to my stallion." Now she would have to leave, and return to her solitude. She sighed.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand's heart jumped unexpectedly when he heard her answer. Of course, he wasn't going to prevent her from leaving, if that's what she really wanted. But he thought she would've like to stay. What made her think that she overstayed her welcome? Brand was surprised to discover that he didn't really want her to leave. As long as the topic of conversation stayed away from him and his past, then he actually kind of enjoyed her company. That admission shocked him slightly, because up until that moment he had been quite content to stay by himself, and to never get involved with anyone again. So why was he making these exceptions now?

He shoved the question aside, figuring he would ask it later after the damage had been done. He took a quick step forward, reaching out his hand. But he stopped abruptly. What had he intended to do, grab her by the arm to keep her from leaving? He couldn't believe how he was acting. He sighed deeply.

"My Lady, you don't have to go," he said, softening his voice. His sincerity was reflected in his grey eyes as he looked at the elf-maiden. You have not overstayed your welcome, I don't know what gave you that idea. Did I not just offer you a place to stay for the night? Believe me, if I did not want you here, I would not have offered. You my find someday, My Lady, that I say only what I mean, and I make good on all invitations, promises and...threats."

He stopped, looking at her intently. "I would like you to stay."

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn had been studying her feet intently, waiting for his answer. When it came, it surprised her....and she was happy for it. His grey eyes had fixed on hers, and she gazed into them for a moment before she smiled up at him.

"Well....if you do not mind," she said. "I would stay. But I must tend to Nárë....he gets lonely, you see." She grinned. The girl couldn't believe the words were hers. The simple fact of conversation with another was insane to her, let alone being invited to stay in someone's house! It was such a change to her, but shockingly, it was a welcome one.

Her heart was beating fast in her chest, with a feeling that frightened her. She liked him...as more than a new friend. And for an elven girl who had no home and no companions, save one old war-horse, that could mean trouble. Aerlinn knew this, and did not wish to ignore it. But she had thrown caution aside, and was now trusting in Elbereth to guide her.
~Telu :flamer:

[Hobbit]

She took another step towards him. Rananar, she had called herself. The name was familiar to Mornar because Caranthir and his brothers sometimes spoke of her, but he never had the pleasure of meeting her before. She had obviously inherited the same skill of word that all the seven sons of Feanor possessed. Mornar remained silent as Rananar came closer and closer to him, as he was desperately searching for a suitable to respond to Rananar’s questions and comments. Unfortunately, Mornar himself had not really been blessed with a silver tongue.

Now she stood right in front of him, and they stared each other directly in the eyes. Mornar noticed little swirls of blue between the grey. There was movement in her eyes even as they were fixed on one point, just like there is always movement in the water, even when the sea appears to be calm. Just like there is always movement in one’s mind…
Caranthir had often told him a person’s eyes formed a window, through which you can see the character inside the body.
But to Mornar, Rananar’s eyes seemed to form a mirror rather than a window, reflecting himself instead of her character. The depths of her soul were well hidden from his gaze.

Suddenly he could no longer bare staring at her like this. He finally snapped out of the trance he had been in ever since he saw her. “I understand your desire to respond to the call of nature”, he started, after he had refound his courtesy and his ability to speak, “‘for I share these desires with you.”
He continued: “Indeed, lord Maedhros has a law of confinement to keep his birds from straying, but I was not send to bring you back. I followed you after you left the encampment, but I have not notified my masters of your flight. And I will not do so now, unless you wish me to.”
Then he bowed deep and introduced himself: “I am Mornar, son of Narwethrin. I’m a servant and guard of lord Caranthir, son of Feanor. And I will proudly escort you back to camp.”

[Wilwarin]

Brand nodded once, the corner of his mouth turning up in to something that resembled a smile. But because he had not smiled in over ten years, the simple act was foreign to him, and it ended up looking more like a smirk.

With that he led the way back outside to where their horses were tied by the front door. Brand stroked Erelas' neck and kissed her velvety nose, whispering sweet things in her ear before untying her. He paused to look at the elf-maiden's horse. He was a fine-looking stallion he had to admit.

"You have a very handsome horse," he commented. "How long have you had him?"

[Telumehtar]

The elf followed Brand out to the horses, trying to shove the tangle of thoughts from her brain. She smiled broadly at the way he was so sweet around his mare, kissing her nose and whispering to her. So he has a soft side, somewhere in that hard exterior, she thought, laughing to herself.

"You have a very handsome horse," he said to her. "How long have you had him?" Aerlinn thought hard for a moment, trying to remember when she had acquired the stallion. "Many years ago," she answered. "He came to me, really....he has been my friend during the hardest of times, if you understand my meaning." She stroked Nárë's soft nose, stopping for a moment to untangle the lock of mane that spilled over his forehead. He snorted in protest, raising his head hight to avoid Aerlinn's combing. He hated to have his mane untangled. "Elyë vanya, hravan nat," she said to the horse softly. He nickered at her words, as if her understood her.

Aerlinn glanced back at Brand, suddenly remembering that she and the horse weren't alone. "Your horse is also a beauty," she said to him. "How did you come by such a mare?" She asked the question warily, remembering his reaction at her last query about his past.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

"She is the offspring of a mare that my father owned when I was... a little younger," Brand said without hesitation. "I helped raised her as a foal, and when she was old enough he gave her to me, and she has been my constant companion ever since." He gazed fondly at his mare for a moment. "Sweet Erelas," he whispered. Then he seemed to snap out of his reverie and looked back up at Aerlinn. "The stable is behind the house," he said, leading the way.

Once inside he motioned to an empty stall. "You may put your stallion in there," he said, leading Erelas into her own stall. Once he was alone with his horse he took a deep breath and sighed it out. Then he unconsciously began humming softly while he removed the mare's tack and brushed her down. His mind wandered back to the days he had spent with his father, training the willful mare. She had been a handful, but their patience had won in the end. Or rather his father's patience. Brand himself couldn't admit to having much of that.

Once he was done with the mare he brought her some grain and a bit of hay, then stood in her stall, stroking her neck and still humming quietly.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn followed Brand into the stable, taking in the smell of the clean hay. She loved that smell...it had been the same as her parent's old stables. She led Nárë into a stall beside that of Erelas. There was a brush already there, and she knew the stallion would be glad of it, so long as she avoided his mane. Picking it up she spoke to her horse, watching his ears flick back and forth to catch the sound of her voice. She began to rub him down, singing a snatch of elf-song under her breath. She could hear Brand humming in the stall beside her, and wondered if he could hear her. She desisted shyly.

Nárë had turned his neck to face her as she brushed his flanks, trying to nibble the brush with his teeth. She tapped him on the nose gently, and he snorted, making her giggle. He had been snacking on grass and leaves during their ride, and she knew he wouldn't be hungry, so once she was done brushing him she stepped outside and closed the stall door. She leaned against the wall and closed her eyes, crossing her arms tiredly.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand heard the stall door close and knew that Aerlinn must be done tending to her horse. So he gave Erelas one more kiss on her velvety nose, then slipped out of the mare's stall. He saw the elf-maiden leaning against the wall, her eyes closed. For a moment Brand just stood there silently, watching her. She was very beautiful, as all elves were. Her black hair, falling around her shoulders, with a glimpse of her slightly pointed ears sticking out of the ebony locks. Her smooth, creamy skin like ivory, that was so envied by mortal women. Brand thought that he could stare at her for hours.

Why is she here? he began to wonder. And elf, so far from home, seeking the company of a mortal. He had never heard of anything more strange. And especially since that mortal was he. He couldn't for the life of him understand what was so special about himself that would so capture the attention of one of the Eldar. He with his unkempt, dirty hair and a several days growth beard shadowing his features. He hadn't bathed in days and he knew he wasn't the sweetest smelling thing around. Smelling more like sweat, horse and ale than anything. He scolded himself for being so lazy. He decided that if the elf-maiden was going to stay in his house, even for one night, then he would have to get cleaned up a little. And for the first time in ages he felt like pleasing someone other than himself.

[Friend of Maglor]

Rananar looked deeply into his eyes, there was... she looked deeper... some shadow of question that fluttered there, but there was wisdom, and very feirce loyalty... He was looking into hers too, but she didn't think he would find anything... it wasn't that she closed her mind to him, indeed, she was begining to be very fond of this guard, but Maglor had often told her that- like the sea- her eyes had a language that few could understand. The stranger seemed to understand that, but suddenly he surfaced, as if coming out of a trance.

Mornar, he said hid name was... he spoke frankly, and had a pleasant voice, mingled humility, pride, and courtesy. Mornar... oh, she liked that name... she rolled it around in her mind a while before responding,

"Thank you, Mornar go-Narwethrin. And," she laughed "you're notifying any of the Seven of my flight would matter little, for I am sure MAglor will guess it as soon as he sets eye upon me again!" She shook her hair out of her face, then looked at him with her head tilted to the side, "It would seem I am twice indebted to your concern, I gladly accept your escort,"

She was not a little wondering at herself, pride forbade her depending on anyone, but Mornar's manner was nothing but sheer courtesy, and it made her happier than she ahd been in many ages.

[Telumehtar]

When the elf opened her eyes she saw Brand looking at her. She smiled at him, flushing ever so slightly. She stared into his eyes for a moment, then turned and looked over her shoulder at the stall where Nárë was munching hay. "Thank you," she said. "Nárë has not had anything as fine as hay in a long while....he is probably tired of grass." She grinned at him, loving that she was finally able to. Aerlinn had not grinned in a long time.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand nodded, the corner of his mouth turning up slightly. "It is no inconvenience," he said. "Erelas will be glad of the company, she is always alone here." He motioned to the door. "Shall we go back inside? I will show you where you can stay." Without waiting for her to respond, Brand led the way back to the house. Instead of going back to the study where they were before, he took her to a closed door just down the hall a ways. He opened it, then stood back so she could look inside. "Here is where you may stay. I will bring you a pitcher of water for your room if you wish. Are you hungry at all?"

[Hobbit]

Rananar and Mornar started to make their way back to Maedhros' camp. They walked slowly, for they both desired to enjoy the beauty and the quietness of the forest a little longer before returning to the crowded encampment. Also, they wanted to enjoy each other's company as long as possible. Mornar was already very fond of the beautiful she-elf, even though he knew her only very briefly.

They shared a comfortable silence and Mornar wondered to himself who was the last person to make such a lasting impression on him. He couldn't recall anyone that did. Surely the sons of Feanor have had quite an influence over him, but he has known them all his life, or at least as long as he could remember.
As a soldier he has made a lot of friends, but these comrades always seemed come and go just like the morning sun over the battlefield. There was no point in really getting to know another warrior, for he might leave for the halls of Mandos the very same day.

Eventually, Mornar knew, there were only a few people that really matter in life. To him, fear of losing those people formed the basis of true loyalty, love and friendship. He was astonished, when he realized what Rananar had set in motion inside his mind. A fresh wind seemed to be blowing between his ears, as he was thinking in a new, different way. For the first time in his life he wondered if in the end, the ultimate goal is worth all the suffering and the pain. Are Feanor's Silmarils truly worth all the long, hard battles, the bitter exile, the hatred, the countless slain and perhaps the greatest sacrifice of all: his own life? He used to be certain it was, but now he wasn't so sure anymore. If only he had the chance to see the jewels once...
"My lady, can I ask you a question?” he asked, before making up his mind and asking the question he never dared to ask any of the exiles from Valinor before: "Have you ever laid your eyes on Feanor's Silmarils? For I wonder what they are like."

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn entered the room slowly, nervous. She had not slept indoors in several years, and the feeling was new to her. But she appreciated Brand's kindness in offering to allow her to stay there. "No thank you, I'm all right," she said in response to his question. She smiled again. "You are very kind....I want to thank you for letting me stay here." She paused, then jumped a bit as she remembered. "Oh, I forgot to mention...." The girl reached into one of her cloak's deep pockets, drawing something out in her hand. It was a small rat, very white with a smooth pink tail. It was another of her companions, or had been for a few months, ever since she had found the poor creature sheltering in her boot one night as she slept. "You do not mind, do you? Many people are wary of them, but she is quite tame." Aerlinn looked at Brand uncertainly, her green eyes mischevious.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand raised his eyebrows minutely at the sight of the rat. His years of indifference had caused his face to rarely express what he truly felt, and reading him was difficult. He shook his head. "No, I do not mind," he said. He put his hand in his pocket and withdrew something small and white. "You may not be hungry..." he said, as he set a bit of dried bread on a small table by the door. "But your little friend probably is." He looked up at her again. "You may join me for breakfast in my study tomorrow. Until then, have a peaceful night, My Lady." He bowed slightly, then left, closing the door behind him.

Once he was alone in the hall he took a deep breath and sighed it out. He shook his head slightly. Get a grip on yourself, man, a voice in his head admonished. Brand just shook his head again, then made his way down the hall in the direction of his own room. He heated some water for a bath, then shaved his stubbly chin and washed himself all over, including his hair. When he was done he sat out on the balcony of his room, gazing out at the city that was drenched in silver moonlight.

Brand ran his hands through his wet hair restlessly. He couldn't stop thinking about the elf-maiden...about Aerlinn, he reminded himself. Her name is Aerlinn. He sighed deeply. What was happening to him? His life had been going just fine. No one bothered him as long as he never bothered them, and that was how he liked it. He was quite content to be alone, and just that very morning he wouldn't have had it any other way. But now...

Now some strange and rather uncomfortable feelings were working inside him and he didn't know what to think of them. He hadn't felt like that in so long, it seemed like something altogether foreign to him. He had been happy. For the first time in over ten years, a small amount of joy had actually managed to break in past his hard shell. And she had placed it there.

He didn't want her to leave. This nosey she-elf that had the gall to intrude on his life, causing it to turn upside down, ruining everything he knew as fact, this she-elf whom he had despised only a few hours before...he didn't want her to leave his life. He wanted more of that happiness that was rapidly becoming addictive.

But she is an elf, the voice in his head interrupted again. You should really have nothing to do with her—at least not in the way you are thinking.

But I'm not thinking anything, he said defensively.

Sure you're not...

[Friend of Maglor]

Rananar quivered inwardly when she heard this question…..the Silmarils….

But….. she liked Mornar……. enough to answer him, and answer to the best of her power. She sighed,

“The answering of such a question is not a simple one; it is best that we sit, and I shall try to call up such words as will make you understand what it is you ask. For verily, I have seen the Jewels.”

They settled themselves on the thick carpet of moss beneath the willows, and Rananar motioned to the stars as she spoke to Mornar.

“Dark elves, grey elves, and the youth of our own High kind all share in the sight of the stars, but the light from which the Silmarils come is much greater. I doubt not that you know of Feanor’s labor in blending the lights of the Two Trees in imperishable substance, from which he derived the jewels. It is hard to explain what that light is like to one who has not dwelt under the trees.”

She looked and Mornar’s listening face, and laughed inside herself…she had not realized that she was so old… she was a child to the Seven… and yet the gap of age did not make her feel separated from Mornar…she went on

“Oh Mornar, they are Telperion and Laurelin…they are the Moon upon the white foam of the sea… they are Arien as she soars above the clouds and you cannot look into her eyes for the brightness, they are the stars encased in crystal, they are the glint of every bright sword and the life in every eye…you can hardly bear them, but you cannot turn your eyes away.”

She had her arms thrown out is an embracing gesture, as if she were going to gather the stars to her to illustrate the point. But now she dropped them, and her eyes dove deep, deep, into his.

“But that is not why. Their beauty… it is not why we seek them with such fierceness. For they are Pride. Feanor’s pride, which, stronger than his own blood, he poured into them. He was an Artist, and Artists are people of a different mind. Their Art in not a part of their life, their lives are an extension of their Art. But Feanor’s was sullied, and snatched from him, bringing an anger hotter than any even your Lord Caranthir could ever kindle within himself. All of this you know. But know also that the jewels are Loyalty. The bond between the Seven Sons and the Silmarils is the bond between son and father. It is not the Jewels we fight for. This is no war over wealth. The sons fight for their father, it is love, and it is pride.”

Suddenly Rananar shuddered. Her eyes deepened to the color of the sea before a squall.

“Mornar, be glad you were not born in those days… for as you have never seen the Silmarils… neither have you seen and heard the curse of the Valar upon us. My mother and father…”

Her eyes grew distant and pained… but then hardened into solid bitterness.

“The Valar hate us. My duty is to the Seven, and I do for them whatever I must.”

She stood up,

“So that is what the Silmarils are Mornar. Light. Pride. Love. Loyalty. Hate. Never doubt that the wars we wage are for good purpose, for with their recovery will Morgoth fall.”

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn smiled as Brand laid the chunk of bread on the little table, then retreated from the room. She set her little rat upon the table, where she flung herself on the bread and nibbled greedily. "Save some for later, little one," Aerlinn admonished. The creature looked up at her for a moment, then resumed eating.

The elf turned back to the bed, which looked very comfortable. She sighed, pulling off her boots and the small pack she wore under her cloak. She set them on the floor beside the bed, then slowly sat on it. She lay back on top of the covers, putting her hands behind her head. Thoughts flooded her head, mainly of Brand. She couldn't stop thinking about him, and it scared her. But she was starting to feel something....something more than a friend. She closed her eyes, ignoring the fact that she was on top of the blanket. In minutes she was asleep, her hair spread out over the pillow. The dark locks covered the white cloth like shadow over the pale moon.
~Telu :flamer:

[Evenstar]

Acharne thought of the people she had known once, the bright elvenhalls she had lived in, for a time, before they were destroyed. All the friends she had once had were scattered or killed, or enslaved in the North.

'There is no one,' she answered, 'at least, no one with a fixed dwelling. Let us go to your friends.' The journey, however long, would be nothing compared to the amount of time she had spent alone.

[Melathwen]

'I am sorry, but I do not know what kindred you are. It should not be a problem, but my friends are, or can be... harsh. Would you mind telling me?' Melathwen spoke slowly, unsure of herself, a thing she found strange. Alone for so long, she was usually sure of where she wanted go and what she wanted to do, and with the twins, she knew them well and could hold her own against their incessant banter.

'No, I do not mind. I am Sindarin,' Acharne replied, and Melathwen looked sudeways at her. Well, it was not so bad as it might have been. 'Why, are your friends not?'

'No, and neither am I. We are Noldorin. I hope it is not a problem for you?' she asked, worried lest her new friend think ill of her for being thrown into exile. Not that she had been thrown, precisely, since she had chosen to follow her father, but still. She could have claimed her mother's blood and stayed in Valinor, rather than be tainted with Noldorin blood. But she had always liked the twins, and had not wanted to be so parted from them for so long.

[Evenstar]

'No,' Acharne said quietly, 'It is no problem.'

She looked curiously at the other elf, and not least at her long blond hair. 'I hope you do not mind my asking, but...' she paused a moment, worried Melathwen would think her rude, 'you said, we are Noldorin. I know I do not have the colouring of the Sindar, but I have never met another who is like that. How does your hair come to be so golden, if you are of the noldor?'

[Melathwen]

'My mother is Vanyarin. It is from her that I get my looks, though I have the spirit of my father. It is useful, at times, to look other than I am,' Melathwen replied, smiling slightly in memory of the times she had tricked people with her appearance which was, when she stopped to think about it, extraordinary for a Noldor. The only ones with golden hair were those of the house of Finarfin, who had a Vanyarin mother, like Melathwen herself. But she had never met any of them.

They rode on, and Melathwen took the time and effort for once to actually notice where they were going. Wandering alone, she had never really cared as long as she avoided habitation, but that was not hard to do. Yet now she found that her companionship with Acharne had kindled in her a desire to be of the world once more, not just something that lived upon it but to be something that changed it, that was a part of the world, so that that world was not the same without her. Oh, she only desired to be so in some small way, but the desire was pressing, nevertheless.

They had left the mountains behind, though they still formed vast, immovable bulks on the horizon behind her. She looked back, and watched the sun sink slowly behind the mountains, and their shadow crept further across the plain. Soon it would overtake them, and night would be upon them. She turned her attention to where they were headed.

The plain spread out before them, a few tiny streams pushing their way through the thick grasses, and nothing moved. It was still save where an errant breeze rippled the grass, dense and springy near the streams, more sparse and thready further away. It was a perfect place for a race, and Daeroch moved beneath her as if sensing her desire to run free, to swallow the plain beneath hoof and foot. She reined him in, not allowing him to run. He had to learn to control his desire to run.

[Wilwarin]

Brand woke before dawn, knowing at once that something was different. What was it? Oh yes, he was clean! He could feel the difference right away and it was rather strange. He wasn't sure if he liked it or not. Suddenly the memory of why he was clean came back in a rush.

"Aerlinn..." he breathed her name softly into his pillow. A few minutes later he finally got up and dressed. He pulled his long hair back into a leather cord at the base of his neck—something else he rarely did anymore, then went down to the kitchen to speak to his housekeeper.

"Eithel," he said without preamble when he found her preparing breakfast. "Please prepare enough breakfast for two this morning. I will be out in the sable." He turned to leave, hoping for no comment from his curious housekeeper. No such luck.

"For two?" Eithel asked. "You are having a guest, my lord?" Her expression was unashamedly nosy.

Brand sighed and paused in his stride. "An elf who stayed here last night," he clarified. "She had no where else to stay, so I offered her the spare room."

"She?" the housekeeper said.

"Yes, she," Brand let his irritation show a little. "Her name is Aerlinn. Please serve breakfast in the study. She will most likely find her way there when she wakes up." With that he left the kitchen.

"Well," Eithel said to herself. "This is interesting. Very interesting indeed." It had not escaped her notice that Brand had bathed and shaved his beard, and that he wore his hair back. She had never seen him like that, and she decided that he was a lot more handsome than she always believed.

[Telumehtar]

When Aerlinn awoke the sun was glaring in through her window, right into her eyes. She frowned, rolling over to face the wall and escape the warm rays. But it was futile, and she sat up rubbing her eyes. "Where are you, little one?" she asked aloud, searching for the rat with her eyes. She finally saw the tiny animal, sleeping on the table where it had eaten the night before. It was still there, napping with its tail wrapped around the remaining chunk of bread. The elf smiled, standing. She stretched her arms over her head, walking towards the door.
~Telu :flamer:

[Ceri Bloom]

Cerridwen wondered down the first path she had found on entering the garden, singing softly to herself. She felt inescapably calm, although her head was full of tumbling thoughts of Amras. As her feet pulled her further along the path, she heard footsteps behind her. They startled her, but not enough for her voice to falter. She smiled to herself, guessing who it was. She began to sing louder, but an exclamation of surprise escaped her lips as a few sweet flowers were placed in front of her eyes.

‘Oh!’

She gladly took the bunch from the protruding hand, and following the line of the finely toned arm, looked up into Amras’ warm, dancing eyes.

‘Hello, my Lord.’

[Melathwen]

'Good day, my Lady,' he returned cheerfully, handing her the flowers. He noticed with glee the blush that crept over her cheeks, light though it was. He fell into step by her side, walking with ease and confidence. He was at home, and a beautiful lady had come to see him. For, he assumed she was here to see him or his brother. Thoughts of his brother led him to seek him. I'm here, came the reply, and he walked on, content to know that his brother was near.

'May I say how well that dress becomes you, Lady Cerridwen?' he asked, charm and respect filling his voice. He and his brother had always been told they were very charming, which they used to great advantage. They really should stop trying to be so troublesome, but it was just so fun.

'Thank you,' she returned quietly, but the smile that broke across her face conveyed more than her words. She continued walking, not turning to look at him, but instead admiring the flowers that grew by the path.

'You like flowers, my lady?' he asked, and when she nodded, he took her arm and led her down another path, to where he knew there would be the most fantastic show of flowers in the garden at that time. As he was leading her there, he could not help but wonder what brought her to his home, the desire to know growing more pressing with each passing moment. 'I cannot help but wonder, my Lady, what brings you here,' he said softly, watching her face to guage her reaction to his question.

Before she could answer, they reached the pond, its waters covered with lilies and its banks coated with wildflowers of every description. Blue, pink, yellow, violet, all were there, in a riotous display of colour and shape that was artfully designed to both shock and please the eye. It was his and his brother's pride, the only thing that really held them here was this garden, that they had worked on together for so long. Few were allowed to come here, even to keep the garden, and the twins brought fewer guests. But he led Cerridwen to a carved wooden bench that sat beneath a weeping willow, and they sat upon it, watching the quiet lapping of the gentle waters while he waited for an answer to his question.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn entered the hall uncertainly, wondering where to go. She had only seen one room of the house, the study, so she decided that was her destination. She pulled a thin strip of green cloth from a pocket, pulling back her long hair. It was tangled, and when she ran her fingers through it they caught on the dark locks. "Ouch," she muttered, frowning. Her hair was such a nuisance, but she refused to cut it.

She had reached the study by this time, and was surprised to find the door open, a woman inside. She appeared to be a servant of some sort, a housekeeper perhaps. She was young compared to the elf, yet Aerlinn felt awkward in her presence. "Vanya arin," she said to the woman, then laughed at herself. The girl switched over to the Common Tongue, saying, "Good morning." She waited in the doorway for the woman to speak, looking into her eyes in curiosity.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

The housekeeper looked up when she heard the voice. A big smile appeared across her face and her eyes sparkled. "Good morning, my lady," she said, curtseying properly. "The Lord Brand is out in the stable, he'll be in shortly. He bid me serve you breakfast though, so please, have a seat," she gesture to the small, two-person table near the window. It was covered with fine tableware and glasses. There was a very wonderful breakfast laid out there. A light omelet, toast, jams and tea. The housekeeper smiled again. "My name is Eithel," she said. "I am to keep you company until my lord's return. That is, if you wish it." Her eyes continued to sparkle at the young elf maiden.

[Ceri Bloom]

Cerridwen was overjoyed that this handsome elf had actually come to spend time with her, and he was doing it willingly. She was not used to male company, and she did not know what to say to any male, let alone this very handsome and interesting one. I'm here. No more than a whisper on the wind. Cerridwen did not look around, just dismissed the words to banishment.

Hearing Amras comment on her dress, she became the shy innocent girl once again she thanked him and contiued to walk along the path. However a smile escaped through her confused thoughts and she saw Amras take this in and wonder at it.

'I cannot help but wonder, my Lady, what brings you here,'

On hearing this question, she deliberately made no move to answer the question. In truth there was no real reason she was here, and that she only been brought by chance. Whilst she was pondering this Amras had steered her into the most beautiful glade in the gardens. Stepping out of her thoughts and shyness she exclamed "Oh My Lord, it's beautiful!" and she truly meant it.

As Amras sat by the willow, Cerridwen wondered round the little lake, marvelling at all the colours and the general beauty and tranquillity of the glade. And yet under all this amazement, Cerridwen couldn'y help but wonder if Amras would believe her answer to his question.

[Hobbit]

Rananar fell silent. The dark, heavy words she and Mornar had exchanged seemed to echo in the forest for a few moments, before the strong breeze suddenly got hold of them, tearing them apart into small bits, pieces of words, sounds, soft whispers and eventually nothing was left but silence.
Immediately the noise of the forest returned to them. A group of nightingales in the willow above Rananar and Mornar sang cheerfully and the birds in the surrounding trees quickly responded to their song. The animals jumped from their branches and flew around like floating dancers, while the sound of their clapping wings supported the songbirds' high pitched voices.

Mornar's mind raced as it tried to form a suitable answer to Rananar's tale. He had seen how hard it was for her to talk about the Silmarils and Feanor and part of him already regretted bringing the subject up, though another part was pleased that the question was finally off his chest. Every word she spoke about the Silmarils had impacted hard on his soul, but more than that, the language in her eyes had effected him very much. For when she started about her mother and father...
Her voice had failed her then, but Mornar had clearly seen the hard green in her eyes suddenly change into soft turquoise, a color of sad beauty.
It was the color of the first day of spring, when the pale sun chases the clouds and the darkness away, but is too weak to drive off the true coldness of winter. It was the color of the coastal waters, the no-man's land between the continent and the ocean, where the danger of the sea and safety of the land come together. The color of sparkling blue, disturbed by broken white.
And as Mornar had stared her in the eyes, he had seen the void beyond the turquoise. There was nothing, save for the memory of something that once was, a memory of both sweet love and bitter sadness.

Eventually he realized that there was no way he could thank her in words for her efforts to explain the mysteries of the Silmarils to him. The question had touched sore parts of her soul, submitting her to pains Mornar couldn't possibly understand. Also, he needed more time to let her powerful words fall into place, before he could comprehend the meaning behind everything she said.

Mornar stood up, and walked slowly towards Rananar. She had her back towards him now, as she listened to the balled of the gales. Obviously, she was in deep thought. He made no noise what so ever, but he knew Rananar was well aware of his every move. When he was quite close to her, he lifted his left arm, slowly raising it behind her back towards her left shoulder. She didn't seemed to be discomforted by his closeness, so Mornar softly put his hand on her shoulder and gently pushed her other shoulder against his body. In response, she tilted her head towards him a bit. Mornar was quite surprised by his own action, for he preferred to avoid physical contact whenever he could. But this seemed to be best way to comfort Rananar for all she had endured and all she had told him and he was glad she didn't refuse his little offer of affection.
As they stood there, together in the night, they tasted the magic in the air. Time stood still as they listened to each other breathing. And for a brief moment, there was a bond between the two elves that no darkness from Morgoth nor curse from the Valar could break.

[Friend of Maglor]

She had retreated, fumbling in the shadow of memory. But when she looked into Mornar’s eyes before turning away… she realized that he understood their waps and wanes. She wanted to tell him more, but she wasn’t sure if she could bear it. But he- among countless others who could not, had read deeply into her eyes… this thought ushered her into a strange sensation, as if suddenly the earth’s focus had shifted, and she was on its rim, feeling it spin amidst infinity.

And then, she felt him standing beside her… and with a motion that spoke beyond the solid limitations of words, Mornar enfolded her. It was almost a protective gesture, and it dispelled the pain that was clustering in Rananar’s heart. It was its unexpectedness and sincerity that stuck her so sharply… tears came unbidden to her eyes. She was confused, she didn’t understand what thing it was that could so effortlessly slip past the stony fortifications she had raised between herself and all affections. But all of her doubt and anger, her fear and resentment… it shattered like dark glass…then melted in the golden warmth of new happiness.

Peace. She drew closer to him and leaned her head against his shoulder. A moment, crystalline in time, when she was not herself as she had been for so long, the fires of their elven spirits reached toward one another, and mingled. Dark flame. Stray flame. One flame…she heard her heart beating, and his too… and suddenly, there was no difference in their rhythms.


Then, unexpectedly, there was light in the willows. Sunlight streamed through the branches, and the nightingales’ song gave way to the myriad warbling trills of a dozen other wood dwellers. For hours Rananar and Mornar had stood together, not realizing that Time still carried on its stately journey. Still without speaking, Rananar turned to gaze at the edge of the wood. The sounds of speech and cooking fires came to their ears. Rananar slid her hand into Mornar’s unthinking, and felt his tighten around hers. Words would have been superfluous. They walked silently together to the last of the great willows that bordered the camp, and Rananar looked into his eyes once more… feeling her own swirl madly. There wasn’t really anything that needed words to say. Strong like starlit steel. Impenetrable mithril. The sheen of sea burnished cliffs in the moonlight. Rananar felt that amidst all the pain and uncertainty of her life she had a refuge in those eyes.

“When I was very young,” her voice fell lightly upon the stillness, “when I was young… my mother tried to explain the strange workings of the hearts of our people. She told me that among the elven kind, it often takes only a chance meeting of eyes to bind one to another. And we make choices not lightly.” She couldn’t grasp at the words anymore; they were being elusive. They had reached the stone steps of the citadel now. “Well met… Mornar, son of Narwethrin” and those words held more of herself than all the others she had yet spoken.

Her hand slipped from his, and she leapt lightly up the cold steps which led to her quarters, her dress like flame behind her.

[Melathwen]

Amras watched Cerridwen walk towards the pond, her back to him. He felt Amrod come up beside him, taking this swift opportunity to change places. 'How is it going?' Amord asked softly, his words carrying little further than Amras' ears.

'As if you didn't know!' Amras retorted, giving his twin a little shove. He had felt Amord use his senses as his own whilst he was walking with Cerridwen, and his twin might as well have been there for all the difference his not being had made. Save that Cerridwen didn't know there were two of them.

'This is rather fun, is it not, little brother?' Amord asked, knowing well the annoyance that name caused his brother. His only answer was a shove as Amras slipped away, fading into the bush that surrounded the pool just in time to avoid being noticed by Cerridwen, turning with the curve of the pool to catch sight of Amrod watching her.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn smiled at the friendly woman, inclining her head slightly when Eithel curtseyed. Such gestures had always made her feel uneasy; they suggested that she was superior, which she knew she was not. "Thank you, Eithel. As for company, it would be much appreciated," she said with a small smile. She was disappointed that Brand was not there to join her, but masked her emotions well. She took a step towards the small table, suddenly quite hungry. "Lovely weather," she said, trying to think of something to say that would fill the odd silence. She looked at the window, smiling at the bright sun.

Stop making smalltalk! her mind was screaming. Eat! She pulled out a chair and sat, wondering if Eithel would reveal about Brand what he would not.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Eithel smiled as she poured some tea for the elf, then sat down in the opposite chair. "Aye, that it is," she said softly, gazing out the window in silence for a while. Then she finally turned back to the elf. "Well, my Lady, you must be someone very special for the lord to invite you to his home like this. Have you known him long?

((Sorry that's so short))

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn laughed a bit, sipping tea. "We became acquainted yesterday," she said with a smile. "It is a strange story, but mainly it consists of me bothering him until he offered me lodging for the night." She paused for a few moments, staring intently into her tea, which was quite soothing. "If I may be so bold, I would ask you a question, Madam. It seems that Brand has also had a difficult past...is this true? I do not ask what this occurence was, but I am curious." The elf gazed at the woman, her awkwardness slowly fading.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Eithel drew a heavy sigh and nodded. "Aye, that he has, poor man. But he keeps to himself. He doesn't like to talk about his past. I've worked for him for over six years, and I still don't know many details—though Valar knows I've tried to find out!" she chuckled softly at her own admission. "All I know, my Lady, is that he was born and raised in Ladros. He was still a young man when it was destroyed, and he moved here. I have guessed that he lost family in Ladros, though I don't know who, or any other details about them. Though, he named that mare of his Erelas. Sometimes I hear him whisper that name aloud around the house when he doesn't know I'm listening. Now, I know by the expression on his face that he isn't thinking about his horse when he says the name. But he won't talk about it," the maid said, shaking her head. "He doesn't talk about anything to any one. That's why I said you must be special. You are the first guest he's had since I've worked for him. And definitely the only female friend he's had in that time." She chuckled again. "It even escapes me why you are interested in him. He's not a very fun individual to be around. But I pass on to you any luck or blessing I may possess. You're sure going to need all the help you can get if you're going to attempt melting that glacier." She chuckled again. "I'm sorry, I can talk all day, please feel free to interrupt whenever you want. I tend to just keep rambling on and on."

[Ceri Bloom]

As Cerridwen circled the pool, drowning in it's beauty, she heard a rustle in the greenery by Amras, but didn't look up to see what it was. As she came to the opposite of the pool to where Amras was sitting, she looked up, and caught him wondering her. She smiled to him and looked away quickly, a small blush accenting her cheeks. i must be crazy she thought to herself. This was one of the first males she had been around since before......She sighed. It was too much.

Resigning to the fact that Lord Amras was a very different person from she, Cerridwen slowly drifted back to where the Willow stood, with the handsome elf under it. Coming to sit next to him, she looked him full in the face. After a moment she looked away and closed her eyes. Keeping them closed she made the final leap.

"I was compelled to come here."

[Telumehtar]

"Ladros..." Aerlinn was thinking hard. "Yes, he mentioned the place. Pity on those who came from there."

Eithel continued to speak, and the elf maiden continued to contemplate over the woman's words. Erelas, she thought. Erelas...there must have been a woman somewhere in his past. No wonder he is such a glacier...but no matter. I shall melt his icy shield.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

At that moment there was the sound of the back door slamming. Eithel stood quickly. "That would be the lord," she said. As if on que, Brand appeared in the doorway. Eithel curtsied to him and moved toward the door as he came in. "My, Lord," she said respectfully, then left the room.

Brand waited until she had gone before looking at Aerlinn. He couldn't help but gaze at her for a moment before aproaching the table. "Good morning, my Lady," he said softly, inclining his head in a slight bow, then taking his seat across from her. "I trust you slept well? I hope I have not kept you waiting long."

[ranehdel]

Ranehdel had been traveling that entire night, but now he saw a great hall, and decided to take refuge around it. He reflected on the past nights, months, years events, and shuddered, why him, why now...everything was going go great. He causiously climbed a tree next to the hall to see if he could see anyone and saw a great banquet table.

Nervously he knocked on the door and wondered if anyone would answer. After all, who would accept a lone elf with no history that he could tell anyone. He was a built fighter, and looked dangerous. He had a bow about his back, a short sword on his side, and two small daggers hidden in his boot and over his heart. He was one of the most elite fighting machines ever, maybe that was why fate has taken its toll the way the did.

As ran knocked on the door he heard a rustle in the bushes near him and instantly knocked an arrow. A small cat casually walked outa the bushes walking right next to Ran's leg. Why was he so edgy...maybe becuase of his past, but he coudln't tell anyone about that, not unless he knew he coudl trust them.

Noone came to the door, but finally the door creaked open. Nervously, Ran took a step back and tried to look presentable and buy a place to stay for the night.

(OOC: I hope htis is good for a first post????)

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn smiled at him, swallowing a mouthful of omelette. "I slept wonderfully, and I have not been waiting long." She paused, gazing at his face. "Your housekeeper seems quite friendly...and is an amazing cook. I have not had such luxuries in a long time."

She had immediately noticed the difference in his appearance, a difference that had come about in one night. His face was shaven and immaculate, his long hair pulled back. A tiny dark wisp of hair fell over his forehead, into his eyes. She lowered her gaze quickly and abashedly, knowing she had been staring and embarrassed. The girl wondered if perhaps now he would tell her something...something of his past.
~Telu :flamer:

[Hobbit]

Mornar watched Rananar with amazement as she leapt lightly up the stairs of the citadel. Her red dress danced behind her back. Her feet barely touched the stone as she walked, and for those that didn't watch her as closely as Mornar, it must have seemed that she missed some of the steps, placing her feet on stairs of thin air in stead.
Mornar was overwhelmed by contradicting feelings. He wanted to stay with her, but he also wanted to run away, back to the forest. He wanted to bring the memory of the countless hours under the willows back to his mind, but he also wanted to look forward to their next meeting. But non of these feelings gained the upper hand. He kept standing there before the citadel, nailed to the ground, his mind clear of both past and the future. And nothing, save for the fire burning in his chest, reminded him of the present.

"Maybe", he thought, when he was finally coming round again, "to the immortal, there is a place in time, where the ever lingering remainants of what was and the dreams and hopes of what is to be, don't count. A place where time doesn't exist, because every single moment there is never ending."
He thought he saw such a glimpse of that place, when he stood with Rananar in the night.
But then he realized he might as well saw an illusion, created by his distracted mind. His mind, that should be focused on his duty...
Suddenly his dreamy state of mind was all gone. His guard shift had long ended and his absence was certainly noted. He should report back to lord Caranthir and apologize for his flight!

He turned, but then turned around again, completing a circle. His eyes fixed on the citadel, where Rananar had long disappeared behind the big wooden doors. It took him a while to realize what made him stay: he had forgotten to greet her when she left for her quarters again.
"May our next meeting be soon, my lady." he muttered and he hoped that the wind would deliver the small message to Rananar.
Then he speeded off for Caranthir's tent, afraid that every wasted second would enlarge his lord's furious anger.

[Wilwarin]

Brand nodded as he poured himself a cup of tea. "Yes, she is a very good cook," he agreed. He could see out of the corner of his eye that she was watching him. But he didn't look up until she glanced away, blushing slightly. He clenched his jaw to keep from smiling. It felt strange to him. He had not smiled in so long. It scared him a little. What was it about this elf that made him feel so...so inclined to smile? He did not think she was amusing, he just felt like smiling for no apparent reason.

But he had to get control of himself. He could not let himself feel these things! He spoke to form a distraction. "I gave your stallion some food and water," he said. "I believe he is enjoying the companionship of my mare in the next stall."

[Melathwen]

Amrod sat looking at her, too shocked for words. Her long eyelashes lay against her cheeks, and she held her hands tensely in her lap. What was he supposed to say to that? How could he possibly reply to such a statement? Cerridwen eventually looked up at him, waiting for an answer, her eyes searching his for some sign of reaction. He could feel Amras' comeplete surprise, and then slowly, bubbling anger, which he realised was his own. Amras was not the angry one, he was usually calm, but now, their anger grew together.

'Compelled? How did this come to be? Can you explain yourself a little more, my Lady? I am no lord and have little understanding of such things, but what I know is bad enough.' It was both he and his brother that made this reply, and neither one on his own would have been able to say anything. The act was too terrible for words, especially in the face of such beauty as was sitting before them.

[Friend of Maglor]

As Rananar pulled a comb through her thick hair, dividing it deftly into three braids entwined with scarlet, she found herself wondering at that brief instant of utter happiness she had encountered with Mornar.

I hope his absence is no cause of trouble, he said he was a guard of the house of Caranthir… and Lord Caranthir is …well…..

She smiled at the glimmer of old memories as she thought of Caranthir, and as she slipped off her light gown for a warmer one of cloudy saffron, an old scene played itself out before her daylit eyes….

She was very young, about 48, maybe less, and her barefoot, feisty child-self was watching Caranthir argue tempestuously with Maedhros. She hadn’t interrupted the quarrel until he turned to Maglor, making some vague accusation out of emotion…something about hunting gear….but then, she had flounced down to Caranthir, and proclaimed “he certainly DID NOT!” in such an authoritative tone that the irritated brother was caught off guard. The others had been a little worried that he would vent his anger again, but instead Caranthir had laughed, and she had his favor from then on.

Rananar tied a crimson sash about her waist and sighed. Caranthir had secluded himself….for so long….it was time for her to greet the others at last. A gold pendant engraved with the Star hung from a red ribbon on a peg near her mirror, and she slipped it over her head, pushing her hair out of the way. She slipped on a soft pair of shoes, and walked quickly down the hallway.

But as she reached the main hallway, a knock resounded on the thick oaken doors. A guard went foreward to answer it..for the gateguards must have let him through….but Rananar stopped him. “I will answer it,” she spoke with authority she did not have. But no matter. She opened the door….and saw before her an elf…woodland kind (to her great distaste) by his garb, with short brown hair. He looked weary, and a little surprised to see an unusually tall Noldorian Lady gazing haughtily down at him.

“Ah…” he inclined his head respectfully “My Lady; I have traveled far, and seek shelter from the evil that hangs about these lands. I would be greatly indebted to any rest or…..food” he emphasized this word. Rananar looked him over, and he drew himself up and looked her in the eyes. He was plenty capable of taking care of himself, and he made it clear.

Good

“You are aware of whose encampment this is?” She said with amusement…. “But no matter: you do not look Sindarian. You have come upon the current dwelling place and fortification of the Seven Sons of Feanor. But be welcome.” She motioned to a guard, and followed the stranger to a hewn table, where food was soon brought. She wondered if he would tell her of himself any further, though why a mere wood-elf gives me any care is beyond reason

[Telumehtar]

"Thank you," she replied, still a bit flushed. "I'm sure he is enjoying the company....he has had none but my own for several years." As soon as the words were out she saw that they could lead to questions...ones she did not feel the desire to answer. She changed the subject quickly, to something she had wondered about earlier.

"Is Erelas your only animal companion? Or do you have any other creatures with you?" she queried. She loved animals, and had noticed that many of the men from this town had dogs with them. Aerlinn sipped her tea quietly, taking what she hoped were subtle glances at his newly shaven face.
~Telu :flamer:

[ranehdel]

Ranehdel looked in amamzement at the feast prepared for him. He tried to move but he couldn't, something was holding him down.

"Thank you fair lady, perhaps I should tell you of myself."
Instnatly the grasps on him were released and he reached for a roll of bread.
"I am as you know a Wood Elf, and even though I know you look down on me, I may be of service to you. I am one of the greatest bowsmen of my kin, and perhaps you have heard of me. I have helped many a people. But as you can tell, I am weary from the past battle I have come from.

It was with the men of Gondor, they begged for my help in strategy and archery. I agreed as always, for since after my city was destroyed, all I have done is help others to fight evil. But that is off the story,

The battle was great, and I single handedly fought myself to the top of teh castle and claimed it for the race of men. After the great kings had reached the spot I had, I was thrown into a dungeon and tourtured. Luckily I escaped and made my way out. Since then i have been pursued because of what I've done. I know now why, the people who destoryed my village, my family, my kin, they were those kings, who i barely escaped from and now I will swear vengence.

With those words Ranehdel's eyes glowed with a green of the forest. But, fair elven maiden, how may I repay you. At that moment a dark shadow flew by the window and instantly Ranehdel's sense picked up on it. He flew to Rananar pushing her on teh ground ducked him self to have an arrow whiz right past where his short hair had just left.

I should have never come here, I have put you in great danger. As he said that the same dark shadow flew by again, and Ranehdel knocked an arrow and sent it in the direction. After what sounded like something hitting branches the two elves heard a "thud" and Ranehdel jumped out of the window to examine it. It was a man, riding a winged beats. On his forehead was a scar, and a message was by his side. it read:
"We shall leave you for the time being, but we will be back and finish the job we started when we invaded your village, and your fate will be the same as hers."

With that, Ranehdel dropped to the ground in weariness and fainted. Rananar read the message and wondered who the hers was. She ordered him be put in a room with no windows and she would tend to this strange creature himself. For surely, even though he was smaller than her, he weiled great strength, agility, and power.

[Wilwarin]

Brand shook his head as he took a bite of his omelet. "No...I need only my horse. I travel a lot, so keeping any other animals isn't very convenient." He swallowed his food, then looked up at her. "But my mare has been with me for a long time. She is getting on in years...but she is still willing and able, and I could never part with her." He closed his eyes momentarily, then looked out the window, becoming lost in his own thoughts. It was several moments before he came to himself, and he looked back at the elf. "And what about you? I know you have a little rodent friend. And how long have you had your stallion?"

[Ceri Bloom]

Long moments passed after Cerridwen finally had the courage to look up into Amras's face. Her emotions were mixed, she was still not sure is she had dont the right thing. Thinking of her best friend, she releaxed slightly. She would not have had trouble telling anyone that she had been compelled. SHe would've shouted it to the Valar has she the chance. Taking confidence in her friend's would be reactions she searched for a reaction in Amras, looking over his face and into his eyes.

'Compelled? How did this come to be? Can you explain yourself a little more, my Lady? I am no lord and have little understanding of such things, but what I know is bad enough.'

Cerridwen heard the anger in his voice, saw the confusion and hurt filling his face. Cerriwden looked into his eyes as he spoke, and saw.......She shook her head. No.She couldn't have.two souls? She stood, turned and fled.

On reaching her room, she met her strange furry friend. She relayed all her afternoons events to him, and then went ans sat by the window. Light streamed in in beams, accenting her cheeks and the colours of her gown. Tears slipped silently down her face to fall onto the paper she now held in her hand. It was a letter from her best friend, given to her before she left to Amras.

[Telumehtar]

"I have had Nárë for many years," she answered, swallowing a bite of omelette. "He was my horse before I le--" she stopped abruptly, realizing she had said a bit too much. Aerlinn took a deep breath, then continued. "He has been my friend when no one else was...I almost wish he were not a horse; he would make a wonderful person." She smiled at the thought.

The elf took another drink of her tea, draining the cup. It was warm, and she wasn't...she wished she had not left her cloak in her room. She shivered a bit, rubbing her arms. She tried to think of something else, failing miserably. Instead she gazed out the window, thinking.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand noticed the elf-maiden's discomfort. He frowned slightly, then stood up and went to the hearth, adding some more wood to the fire. He stood in front of it for a moment, pondering. Then he held up the folded blanket that had been sitting on the arm of one of the couches. "Are you cold? Would you like a blanket?" he asked. It felt strange to him to be thinking about the comfort of someone other than himself or his horse. And for some reason it made him feel rather good.

[Friend of Maglor]

Rananar cried out in alarm, and two guards quickly swooped to the woodelf’s side. “Take him to the healer… and tell me quickly, where is Lord Maedhros?” “In the North battalion Lady, I shall take the news to him myself,” a guard replied hurriedly, “though how such a dark thing could have gotten past our border guards I know not…” he muttered as he hurried away.

Ranehdel was lifted carefully by the guards, and placed in a small room in one of the West quarters. But Rananar’s eyes were dark with anger, and heedlessly she thrust open the door and strode over the cold stone pavement. The endmost guard-the captain of the West Wall, between the wood and the ramp, turned to her in surprise “What in the name of all heaven was that ….that…. rauko ?!” she spat furiously. “Nothing has past us my lady, it would have had to be winged or spirit to have so done,” he replied in bewilderment. Quickly she told him of the stranger and the arrow that crashed upon them. “Yes,” he mused, “we let the woodelf through, one of the men recognized him from battle aforetimes. But this dark thing,” his jaw tensed, “I will set more men about my posts.” “Word has been sent to his Lordship,” she said grimly, “it would seem that whatever quiet we have had is being swallowed by evil once again.”

She turned sharply and entered the fortress once more, then headed for the corridor through which the guards had carried Ranehdel. Looking into his room, she saw him sitting up in a small cot, the healer standing before him with a goblet of something. he is well the thought gladdened her unexpectedly. She moved down the passageway towards her own rooms, when she saw someone in the shadows whose face was very familiar.

Lord, my lord Curufinwe……Curufin! Curufin turned sharply at the sound of a ringing female voice. “Rananar!” he exclaimed, the surprise of his niece's presence not an unpleasant one. He was, however, wary… he could not be sure what thoughts Maglor or Maedhros had put into her head concerning his and Celegorm’s expulsion from Nargothrond. But the gladness in her eyes reassured him.

loyal as ever, Straying Flame

“I knew not of your coming here, child, this place had been very lacking without your tempestuous aura”

Rananar basked in the playful sarcasm….[I]maybe things will not be any different[/]

“My heart is glad… for all of its open spaces I was beginning to feel caged in Amrod and Amras’ dwelling. Although I learn that Tasarion is not without its own darkness.”

Curufin’s emerald eyes grew dark with consent, and he put his arm around her shoulders and guided her through a passageway to one of his makeshift workrooms, saying…

“Though I knew not your arrival would be so soon, I am glad of its timing, I have a gift for you that has been waiting its giving- for as you have said, these are dark times…and you may have need of it.”

“Oh?” Rananar’s eyes widened, gifts from this son of Feanor were gifts of the highest mettle. All of the finest jewelry she possessed had been made for her by Curufin.
But this was something new altogether, for Curufin pulled free from a cloth two objects that gleamed in the torchlight…

“Knives…” Rananar’s voice was a whisper, and her eyes lit up like flame touched to oil.

Curufin smiled. She was a true child of this house. Though she was nissi, there was no harm in the women being wise in warcraft during these dark days, and he knew her skill was already very vast, and she has participated in many hunts and raids, though she had not fought in any war as of yet. Rananar was speechless… the only weapons she owned were a bow she seldom used (she disliked archery) and her father’s sword, one of the first lesser attempts at sword making from Valinor.

She had often asked Curufin to teach her how to use the long double blades he favored. They were long and sleek, unlike the double knives of the wood elves… they were as long as her outstretched arm, very slightly curved. They had no hilt, but a Feanorean star of corundum was emblazoned where it would have been, and its rays reached upwards, twining in many shapes up the blade. The handle was black and smooth, of some jet metal Curufin had devised.

“I do not think that it will be any great trial to teach you the use of them,” he said, “here” He pulled out another bundle, disclosing their black leather sheaths, worn on a belt that crisscrossed over the waist, all embellished with red. But what was this? A dagger lay there too.

“You cannot always go armed when you are in council or at a place and time of peace… but it is well always to be ready thus. Wear it hidden when you go abroad.”

It was long and cruel looking, with a wavy blade. Rananar took it, mesmerized.

“Thank you, my lord” she spoke strongly now, her gray eyes meeting his serpentine ones. “It is a glad thing to know upon which side weapons so given will be fighting,” he replied, “I know our house can trust you Rananar.” Pride burned in her veins.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn smiled up at Brand, who was holding a blanket, a shadow of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. Or was it a smile? The elf couldn't tell, it was so slight. She nodded at him, still shivering a bit.

(Sorry this is so short, I have to go eat!!)
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Without another word, Brand took the few steps across the room and placed the blanket around Aerlinn's shoulders. His hands lingered there a moment longer than necessary, then he pulled away, a sudden, very strong wave of emotion nearly overwhelming him. He look down at her face for a moment, fighting to keep his own expression neutral. But his jaw was clenched, and his grey eyes seemed to churn like the waves of the sea in a storm. He couldn't be near her anymore, he just couldn't.

He turned and went to the hearth, picking up his pipe. He stuffed it and lit it with purpose, puffed a few times and then drew on it deeply. He held the breath for as long as he could, then let it out with a tension-draining sigh. He realized how strange he might look at the moment and felt compelled to offer an excuse.

"I'm sorry," he said, smirking slightly as he glanced back at her. "I haven't had a smoke in a while." He gave no other explanation, and offered no other comment. He turned back to the hearth, staring absently into the flames as he continued to puff on his pipe.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn instinctively clutched the blanket to her, drawing in the warmth. She looked up at Brand to thank him, but something in his face stopped her. Her words stuck in her throat at the look in his eyes. He walked over to the hearth, his back turned to her, his beautiful yet cold eyes staring intently into the flames. His shoulders were hunched slightly, and something in his posture moved her to sadness.

Her hands still holding the blanket at her throat, she stood, pushing her chair back. She crossed the room to the hearth and stood beside him. She also stared into the fire, absorbing the flickering flames in her green eyes. Hesitantly, the elf laid a hand on his shoulder, then removed it again. She stood beside him, but offered no words.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand stiffened at the feel of her hand on his shoulder. His heart began to beat faster and he found it difficult to catch his breath. She removed her hand quickly and Brand was thankful. His skin was still burning where she touched him. She stood next to him, not speaking. What did she want from him? Why was she here? He kept asking himself those questions—had asked her those questions. But it seemed like neither of them really knew. But the biggest question for him was, Why was he letting her stay? What did he want with her? That was something else he could not answer, at least not yet. All he knew was that she was special. He needed her presence and feared it at the same time. He wanted to hide from her, while at the same time wanting to spill his soul for her to see. He wanted to forget her, but she never left his mind. He wanted to run, but knew that where ever he went it would lead him back to her. How could that be? He had known her for less than a day, and yet she had such power over him.

'She is an elf,' he reminded himself. 'She has you under some kind of spell.' He shook his head at that thought. As much as he wanted to believe it, he knew it was false. He had known so many other elves. None of them had ever cast a spell or did any magic. And yet, here she was...

And she was so close to him again. He couldn't have her so close. He cleared his throat nervously and tapped his pipe out on the hearth, then placed it on the mantelpiece. He glanced up at her for a second before retreating to the window. He stood there for a moment before finally speaking again. "So...what are your plans for today, My Lady? Do you have anywhere to go from here?" He turned to look at her, arching one eyebrow.

[Telumehtar]

She continued to stare into the flames, taking in as much warmth from them as possible. She mused over his question for a moment, then answered. "No, I have no real plans," she said thoughtfully. "I have no where to go, so I might explore the city. I have not been in one for so long...but then I think I should leave. I have no desire to settle anywhere." Except here, she thought, then rebuked herself. Aerlinn, you have to stop, she told herself. You cannot go on thinking this way...you are not wanted here. She sighed.

"I should probably be off," she said reluctantly. She did not want to leave the warm fire, nor the blanket wrapped around her that carried his soft scent, but she knew she had to. After all these years she could not settle down somewhere now. But then she drew her gaze from the hearth and looked into his face, and she knew that she truly did wish to stay...here.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand closed his eyes for a moment, clenching his teeth to try and fight back all the strange emotions he was feeling. He knew she had to go. She was an elf and didn't belong in a city of men. But he knew that if she did go he would miss her, and that thought frightened him. He was letting her get him, he couldn't do that. He couldn't afford to be close to someone again. He couldn't bear to have such pain as that.

At last he spoke, and his voice was rough with emotion. "I, uh...was supposed to leave on a trip today myself." He stopped, debating his next words carefully. And just as he was deciding not to say them after all, he was speaking. "Perhaps you would like to see me off? You could ride with me to the pass. It is a full day's journey, so I understand if you don't want to." He paused. "But I...I would...enjoy the company," he said haltingly, yet he meant every word.

[Melathwen]

Amras came out of the trees to stand next to his shocked twin, and together, they watched Cerridwen flee. Silently, knowing there was no need for words between them, they turned and headed for the house. It was nearly time for the evening meal, the light was fading and there was the last business of moving to see to. By this time tomorrow, they would be many miles away. It was time to be gone from this house, but all must be left in order against their return. It was one of their favourite houses, and they had little doubt that they would return.

They met no one on the way back to their rooms, and the air of melancholy that surrounded them would have scared away most of the more timid servants. All in their house had learned to be wary of the twins' tempers, Amrod's most specifically. Amras could usually be trusted to stay calm and think, but he had as hot a temper as his brothers when it flared.

'Do you think we should change for dinner, Amrod?' Amras asked. He knew their dressing the same had caused no small amount of confusion among their household, and though both loved to cause mischief, they were no longer in the mood for it. Amrod shook his head without saying anything. Neither was really in the mood for speaking, either. Silently, the separated to wash up before the meal, and then made their way to the dining hall.

There was already a large crowd gathered, standing around the large tables and drinking, talking, merry making and generally creating vast amounts of noise. Amras suppressed a wince as they entered the loud chamber, each looking around quickly, searching for any sign of Cerridwen. They found none. Sighing simultaneoulsy, they made their way to the head of the table and took their places, the rest of the crowd quickly following. They heard numerous sighs and exasperated expressions, not all complimentary, when the crowd realised they were still dressed alike. Allowing themselves identical cheeky grins, they began to eat, keeping one eye (between them) on the doors, so that they would know when Cerridwen entered.

[Ceri Bloom]

Light had turned to dusk, and Cerridwen was still sitting at the sill of the window in her room. She had been difting for some time, dwelling in the past, thinking of back home, what her child hood play mates might be doing. Old tears recently shed had dried on her cheeks, leaving the appearance of silvery veins in the flickering torch lights coming from the gardens as everyone made their way to the dinner hall. She unfolded and re-read the letter in her hands for what felt like the thousandth time

Dear Cerridwen
I hope you're not reading this before you got to a safe bed! You know what your mother would say about breaking promises dont you?

I know why you had to leave, and even though i will miss you everyday i understand, and we will meet again one day, be it here in this life or in the Halls of Mandos. I know you may be feeling very lonely, so i offer this advice: Do not get caught up in your own dreams. Dreams fade, they die, and new ones arise. Find the meaning of your dreams, then let it fade, die. Come home to us Cerridwen, we will always be here for you.
Safe journey my sister.

Looking up and clearing her eyes, Cerridwen stood up, resolve hardening her heart. She knew she could not go back, and she could not dwell on the part either. As Cerridwen took a deep breath, her strange furry friend leapt onto her lap. Gently this creature sniffed at her eyes. When Cerridwen finally pulled away, although having greatly enjoyed the experience, she found her mood had lightened.

"Lets go find a name for you, little one" Cerridwen said to her new friend. After changing into yet another fresh gown she found hanging in her wardrobe, and admiring herself in the full length mirror, she retraced her steps through the hide and lusterous halls, and then again through the gardens, seeking the refuge of the lake and the willow tree's bench.

[ranehdel]

Ran awoke in a very strange place
A old elf was nursing various wounds all over his body...
"How did I get these, sir?"
"I do not know, as you lie here a shadow crept upon you and slowly beat you. You are quite lucky to survive!!!"
"I know this shadow, don't worry, I will never be killed by this beast, but I will suffer."
The young elf lept to his feet in surprise of the old man
"theres no way you can be up, your been harmed greatly"
"Do not worry, for I shall make it, there are many things about me that you don't know, and I thank you for your help to me kind elf."
Walking out the elf went to the great hall and saw two elves together very close together, staring intently into eachothers eyes. As he entered, the male elf, upon seeing Ran, quickly begged his pardon and left leaving him and the she elf who had helped him alone.

"Kind lady, I thank you much, but I must leave, I put you in too much danger. Do you know of any place that I can go that is far from here, very far. I must get at least 300 miles from here. I hate to ask you for any more help, but I must ask you if you know of anyone who can harbor me in a distant place. Do not worry about travel, for I have something at my disposal that is very helpful."
Ran whistles and a horse gallops toward him.
"This is my horse, "whitewind" he can take me any distance."
"Now fair maiden, do you know of anywhere that I may seek shelter at?"

[Bane of Lunazra]

Sheer adrenaline was pumping furiously through my muscles. I devoured the speed like a hungry predator, chasing my fleeting prey through the woods. I pulled two arrows from the quiver rattling on my back and pulled them into a tight bind on the bow’s string. My eyes darted around, constantly vigilant. I heard a rustle of leaves stir behind me. Several feet? Closer. I released one arrow as a swift warning to my follower. Stay away it muttered whisking through the air. A silence followed and I bent my hearing and other senses on discovering the pinpoint of my follower. No use… My thoughts spoke the awful truth into my ear like a second personality unto itself. I shushed my instincts and let the intelligence resume control. Whoever this is… they aren’t an amateur. SNAP! A twig crunched in two from a careless footfall. Or not.

I smirked but the feeling suddenly dissipated. The air was escaping out of me. The ground was suddenly growing very close. “Arghhh!” A tall form snapped his arm low into my gut spilling the air from my body in a fluid movement. I saw myself crumble to the earthen foliage of the forest’s floor. My vision blurred into a dark, distorted image as I gasped for some sign of movement in my trachea.

A crimson blur flashed in front of my eyes as they dimmed from lack of oxygen and energy. A muscular forearm shoved my slender body hard into the ground, pinning me to the floor, trapped beneath a heaving sweating body. I struggled, flailing my limbs, trying to escape the prison the hunter’s body made around me. I reached down for my dagger, reached further towards my boot. Caught! He grabbed my wrist firmly and drove it above my head. I made a quick motion to grab the tipped arrow on the ground. No! He sensed my rash movement and pinned my other hand by my side. I quaked in fury at my ensnarement by this… this ruffian!

Cursing in the high tongue, I caught his attention with rough and concise words. Green gray eyes stared into mine. Suddenly, I was thrown into a coma of tranquility, of absolute terror. Those eyes. I know those eyes. I observed my capturer finally, surveying the princely elf that had me tightly bound in his dominance. The sea-faring eyes, the stern gaze, the finely chiseled and strong facial features, and the long, crimson hair falling limply around his rough and seemingly tired face.
“Maitimo!” I cried joyfully, succumbing to the strength of his body. He looked at me suddenly, fearfully almost, and loosened his grip on my pale limbs. Slightly abashed, he retreated and stood up, foliage decorating his cloak and tunic. “Ailnoriel?”

[Friend of Maglor]

She had heard tell of the woodelf’s sudden departure, but didn’t care a the moment. Playing with the wave-bladed dagger she had so recently received, Rananar sought our one of the brothers in the high halls. Or maybe Mornar…she felt a thrill when she remembered, and longed to seek him out. Suddenly, as she looked over one of the stone balconies, she saw the coppery gleam of….oh it could only be him!!

Rushing down the stairwell lightly, her feet scarce touching the steps, Rananar reached him. There was a female elf there too, he must of caught her trespassing not knowing who she is but she couldn’t have cared less. “Russandol!”

He whirled around, his deep waves of copper-crimson bright flung over his shoulder. For a moment it seemed that delight lifted the thick shadow of weariness and pain from his countenance, and she hugged him tightly as if to ward it away eternally. “Little Rana!” he said, holding her out before him and looking her over. She was only half a head shorter than he. “When did you-? I thought you were staying with the twins?” Understanding dawned on him, and with amused eyes he quipped “Maglor was always very easy to convince. But I am glad for once.” Realizing again that another was near, Rananar turned to regard the newcomer. She held herself tall and said airily, “who is this?” “You have a name, girl?” Maedhros rolled his eyes at her haughty tone and tried, unsuccessfully, to look apologetic. The she-elf returned her gaze with equal ferocity. But Rananar wasn’t about to let her retort. She gave Maedhros a quick parting hug, and he flicked a strand of her hair playfully- making her eyes mist with the memories of her brighter childhood, then turned on her heel and strode back up the stairs to find Mornar.

She didn’t notice the sorrow that overtook him when she left, he had wished so strongly to spare her what was coming……
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~

Under moon and under star
those wapping waves which unseen are
still brimming full of a binding power
which turns to days a single hour.

When eyes do meet
In such a strain,
Of faerie air, of moonbeam rain
Twain they cease to be apart,
Rather, twined as one, a beating heart.

She sung softly under her breath, letting the wind dance between her lips and carry the words on their merry tumblings. Approaching Caranthir’s section of the encampment, she peered about the many armored figures, searching….

[Evenstar]

Faervelui tugged the cloak even tighter round her shoulders, shivering in the cold night air. Somewhere above her the moon was shining, but the leaves of the forest blocked it from her view. The old oak tree she was leaning on creaked slightly, and she looked around her nervously.

For not the first time that day, Faervelui felt very lonely, and very stupid. If only I wasn't so impulsive, so easy to lose my temper... Bitterly she wished for the warmth and safety of her home, she longed to se her mother's face again, telling her she was forgiven, assuring her everything would be all right...

But I cannot go back on my word. What would they think of me then?

A voice shrieked high above her, causing her to start in fear. When she recognized its cry to be that of a night bird she huddled even more into a ball and wept bitter tears at her own foolishness.

To think I could take care of myself! Iknow nothing, nothing...

What am I going to do?

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn stared into Brand's eyes, trying to read the unwritten. Her gaze bored into his. Was he serious, or just being polite? She supposed he was serious; when was he not? Had he even smiled in her presence? She could not remember, though she attempted to.

The girl's mind raced with a snarl of thoughts and emotions. She settled on a conclusion: she would go with him as far as he would allow her. She had decided to decline, but her father's face arose in her mind, frowning and shaking his head in reprimand. With this visual she gritted her teeth, then spoke truthfully. "I would like to go with you, Brand. A day's journey would not be an issue for me; I have travelled for so long it would seem to be but an hour." Just to spite your memory, Adar, she thought sarcastically, speaking silently to the face in her head.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

At Aerlinn's words Brand felt such a sudden thrill of joy that he couldn't hold it back. It leapt onto his face in a quick smile that lit up his eyes. But it lasted only a second, and then he controlled himself again. He nodded, feigning indifference, but it was clear to see that he was pleased by her answer. "Good," he said. "Then we will leave as soon as we're ready." He was about to turn and leave when he paused, looking deep into her eyes. On impulse he lifted his hand and placed the backs of his fingers to her cheek, and they burned at the touch of her skin. His heart began to beat faster in his chest, and he hoped she could not hear it. For several intense moments he was held in her gaze, unable to look away. He cupped his hand over her cheek, then smoothed a strand of loose hair away from her face, tucking it behind her delicate, softly pointed ear.

He forced himself to focus. He could not get lost this way, he had to get control of himself. He finally withdrew his hand, then glanced away. "I'll just...go get the horses ready," he said, his voice husky. "You may come as soon as you are ready. But don't feel rushed." With that he inclined his head slightly to her, then turned around and left the room.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn was surprised to see a smile light up Brand's face, though it lasted but a second. The effect it had on his features was amazing, it made him look so handsome that the elf caught her breath in surprise. But then his eyes caught hers and held them, and he touched her cheek softly. She closed her eyes for a moment, addicted to the feeling. Her breath stopped and she opened her green eyes again, staring into his grey ones. He tucked a loose bit of her hair behind her ear and she opened her mouth to speak, but words failed her.

Then he glanced away and spoke slowly. She could barely hear his words, her heart was pounding so quickly in her chest. Oh, Brand, she thought. You can feel, after all. He left the room and Aerlinn sunk into a chair, her heart still throbbing against her ribs.

Her head spun and she simply sat, thinking. This cannot be happening, Aerlinn, she told herself. This cannot lead to anything but more pain, and you know it! But then a new voice inside her head spoke up, arguing. But you want to, and you know it...so just see what happens! She took a deep breath and stood, leaving the room slowly. She headed down the hallway, picturing Brand's face.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand quickly retreated to the stable. He took his saddle and placed it gently on Erelas' back. Then he stopped, resting his forehead against the mare's neck. He sighed deeply. "What am I doing, Erelas?" he asked quietly. "What am I getting myself into?" The horse just looked back at him, not offering any words of advice. How could he be feeling these things? After so many years. After swearing to himself that he would never feel in such a way again. Brand, you must get a hold of yourself, he thought desperately. You cannot continue with this. And WHY did you invite her to go with you?

Brand shook his head, trying to clear it. Right now he didn't care about any of that. He had felt so happy just a moment ago when he was with Aerlinn. He had not felt happy in so long. He wanted more of it, and she was the reason for it. He would not chase her away so soon, not this time. This time he was going to listen to his heart and not his mind.

He quickly finished saddling his mare, then he put a saddle on Aerlinn's stallion. He tied a couple packs to each horse, then led them out into the aisle, ready to leave. He stood there, patiently waiting for Aerlinn to come out so they could leave. He stroked the mare fondly, speaking to her softly and looking into her deep brown eyes.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn walked slowly back to her room, seeming to float. This feeling was new to her, and not entirely welcome, but she planned to let fate take control. As she entered the warm room she spotted her little rat friend on the bed, curled up in a ball asleep. "What have I gotten myself into, little one?" she said, scooping up the tiny creature and kissing its pink nose. It opened its eyes, whiskers trembling, and gave no indication that it had heard Aerlinn's words. She donned her cloak and tucked the rat into one of its deep pockets, then shouldered her pack. Her bow was still strapped to it, making the pack a bit unwieldy. She strapped her sword on under her cloak, checking to be sure her daggers were in their correct places, her boot and side. This was her daily ritual.

With that she gazed out the window, entranced by the glowing sun. Á Varda, she whispered. Eruannalya varya ni. She was so confused by all that was happening to her...but one emotion was lording over all the others: happiness. The feeling was alien, but welcome; she had not been happy for many a long year. She turned and left, making her way slowly down to the stable. Once she entered she saw Brand, standing with the horses, whispering to his mare.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand was concentrating on his mare, so he didn't see when Aerlinn entered the stable, and it was several moments before he finally sensed someone else in the room. He looked up, and when he saw her there he almost smiled again, but it just barely turned one corner of his mouth.

"There you are," he said. "I got your horse ready for you, so we are all ready to go if you are."

He gazed at her, unable to take his eyes away.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn flushed slightly under Brand's stare, but did not lower her eyes. His grey eyes were so difficult to interpret, she thought. His mouth twitched in what could have been the faintest of smiles. Nárë snorted and pawed the floor with his heavy hooves. "Avá," she said softly to him, knowing he probably couldn't hear her. She brushed a few loose strands of her dark hair from her eyes, still unable to tear her gaze away from the man who stood before her.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

They gazed at each other for several moments, not saying anything. Brand felt as though he could keep looking at her all day and never grow tired of it. Then a sudden desire to go up and put his arms around her startled him. Where had that come from? In any event, it brought him out of his reverie. He seemed to wake from a trance and quickly glanced away.

"We should go..." he said roughly, his emotion showing through in his voice. With that he quickly mounted his horse, then rode out of the sable into the fresh morning air. He didn't wait for the elf, knowing that she would be able to catch up with him easily enough.

[Telumehtar]

Brand then quickly looked away, and Aerlinn did also. He leapt onto the back of his mare, riding out of the stable quickly. He is an odd one, the elf thought as she mounted her own horse. She followed Brand out of the stable, catching up with him almost immediately. She was now riding beside him, patting Nárë's neck as the stallion raced along.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

The two rode full speed for several minutes, then finally Brand slowed Erelas, even though the mare still wanted to run. He didn't want to tire her, since she was not as young as she used to be. He slowed to a canter, then a trot. And soon the horses were walking side by side, their riders lost in their own thoughts.

Off and on Brand stole glances at Aerlinn, the elf-maiden who was confusing his feelings more than anyone else had in over a decade. He sighed deeply and gazed out at the land around them. They were riding toward to the Southern boarder of Dor-Lómin and the snowy peaks of the Ered Wethrin. There was a small pass in the mountains where the River Teiglin rushed out on its way to join the great Sirion, and then to the sea. Brand was making for that pass. And it would be there that the day's journey would end, and Aerlinn and he would part company, for from there Brand would continue on south, following the river wherever it would lead him. He had no plan really, he just had to fulfill the call of his wandering heart.

But his heart was now torn. Did he really want Aerlinn to leave? What if he never saw her again? That was something he was not ready to think on yet. So he decided that he would take this day one hour at a time, and any decision would be made later—or tomorrow even. Right now he was just content to ride with her at his side. It felt good, it felt right somehow.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn was trying not to think, and failing. She wondered where Brand was headed, but didn't want to interrupt the silence. Silence was something she was used to, a familiar feeling that was almost palpable. Silence was good.

The elf had been pondering her situation for a while now. She was on the way to destination she did not know, with a man whom she had met yesterday, and her provisions were running out. If you can call three bits of lembas provisions, she thought bitterly. She supposed she would have to use her bow for food, though she hated killing. She had seen too many she loved succumb to death, been herself too close to its icy grip, and her skill with her weapons was practically wasted. Her thoughts trailed, twisting through her confused mind. Finally she broke the silence.

"Brand?" she asked, turning a bit in her saddle to look at him. "What is your destination? Have you one, or are you like me, simply wandering?"
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand glanced over at her when she asked her question. Then he looked ahead, not answering at first. He drew a deep breath and let it out with a sigh. What was his destination? Every time he left his house he did so with no exact destination in mind, but he was always able to think of one once he had been away from the city for a day or two.

"I don't really have a destination," he admitted. "At least not yet. I will have one soon though." He glanced up at her again. "I guess you could call me a wanderer. Though I am always called home eventually." He smirked slightly, then turned his gaze back to the mountains ahead of them. "Where have your wanderings led you, my Lady?" he asked.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn stared at the mountains for a while before answering. They are so beautiful, she thought. "I am from Ossiriand," she finally replied. "I have travelled the Land of Seven Rivers and over the Ered Luin, and have done so for many years." She smiled in fond recall of her triumph at that particular journey. Aerlinn loved to challenge herself, and crossing over the Ered Luin had been a challenge she had nearly failed. But she had proved strong enough to survive the mountain chain, and was proud of the fact.

"My wanderings have led me down many paths, though none were of my own choice," she said after a moment. She shocked herself with this statement, knowing full well that he might ask questions that none had ever dared to before him. But for some reason she did not care if he knew her past, she almost wanted to share it with him. She bowed her head in sudden sadness and confusion, her hair obscuring her face.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand looked at her for a moment. He could see her sudden realization that she might have said too much. He knew the feeling, it had happened to him so many times. And he also knew the feeling when others just couldn't let it go, they always had to press, to bud into business that was not their own. Well, Brand was not such a person. He liked to keep to himself and rarely, if ever, asked questions of others, especially if he considered them to be even remotely personal.

But the silence that followed was uncomfortable. He could see her confusion just before her face was obscured by her long hair. He resisted the urge to ride closer and smooth that hair back, to turn her face up towards his, to...

Stop it! he commanded himself. Just stop with all of that kind of thinking! He took a deep breath and forced his mind to focus. "Ered Luin," he said, his voice shaking slightly. "That is quite impressive. I have seen the Blue Mountains, but I must confess, I have never dreamed of crossing them. You are brave, my Lady."

[Telumehtar]

She looked up at him with misty eyes, but refused to wipe her tears; that would draw more attention to them. Aerlinn studied his face; he was telling the truth.

"I am not brave," she said bitterly. "As I said, it was not of my choosing." She plunged ahead unthinkingly, pouring out her thoughts with no regard to Brand's reaction. "I wander, but that is not my spirit. I survive, but that is not my wish. I-I..." her voice broke and her eyes became angry slits. Teary angry slits. She refused to look down, or at Brand; she stared straight ahead. "I now only seek other people because if I did not, I fear I would suffer the death that so many of my kind before me have met." Her thoughts strayed to other Elves she had known, those who had died of no other cause than a broken heart.

A breeze kicked up, tousling her hair, then causing it to blow in front of her face. She spat at a strand that blew into her mouth. Well, now you've done it, Aerlinn, she told herself. Now you've really dug yourself a grave...you've said too much.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Her words had suddenly stirred something in Brand's heart, something he had not felt in so long: Compassion. He felt very deep compassion for this elf. And without any thought to etiquette or propriety or consequences, he pulled his horse up close to hers, forcing the stallion to stop. They were so close that the riders' knees were touching. Brand reached out his hand and placed his fingers under her chin, bringing her face to look at him. He gazed at her intently, all the feeling he had been hiding deep down was now showing through. He gently stroked away the hair from her face, running his thumb along her jaw-line.

"How can one so beautiful be so angry?" he wondered aloud. Then his thumb wiped away one of the tears that slowly trickled down her cheek.

[Evenstar]

It was the steady dripping of the rain that woke Faervelui; it had been dripping onto her face from the branches of the tree and her hair and neck weresoaking, although the rest of her was kept dry by the cloak. She lay quite still for a while, as her mind slowly adjusted to the unfamiliar situation.

So it was not all a dream... I wish it had been. A nightmare, but there's safety in waking.

Her pack was also dry, safe under the cloak. Grumbling slightly, she wiped her face on a piece of cloth and burrowed in the bag for food. There was a little meat left, and some water, but soon she would run out.

I have to do something. I have to find company soon... I don't know if I can fend for myself. Can I?

She was so involved in her thoughts that she did not hear the soft footsteps behind her.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn caught her breath as Brand gently tilted her face so she looked into his eyes. He brushed away the hair that blew into her astonished face, gently stroking her jawline with his thumb. Nárë snorted, tossing his mane; he was eager to get moving again. But Aerlinn didn't notice; her senses were all focused on the man before her.

He spoke, and she noticed that his voice was slightly husky. "How can one so beautiful be so angry?" he asked, wiping a tear she had forgotten was spilling down her cheek. Her heart beat so hard she was sure he could hear its incessant pounding. She wanted to anser, to tell him he must be mistaken or something, but words utterly failed her. She reached up and put her hand over his, which was resting under her chin.

"Brand," she whispered, and could think of nothing more. The elf simply sat unmoving, waiting for him to speak again.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

But Brand could not speak. He could only gaze into her eyes, and was completely unaware of the moisture that was welling in his own eyes. He continued to stroke her jaw as he debated with himself inside. His mind was telling him to stop what he was doing, to walk away, he didn't need any of this. But his heart was telling him just the opposite. And his heart was the one speaking truth, he knew that. His emotions were balling up inside him, a great dam that was ready to burst under the pressure unless it was able to find a way to escape slowly.

In desperation Brand leaned forward, while at the same time pulling her closer. He brushed his lips lightly against hers, closing his eyes tightly. Then he pulled back a little and looked into her eyes, suddenly realizing what he had just done. He was rather shocked himself, and he was now wondering if he had not just made the biggest mistake of his life. For now that he had done the thing, he could not take it back.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn noticed the mist that was growing in Brand's eyes, and it touched her. He kept his fingers on her jaw, and every movement of his thumb made her shiver inwardly. Never before had anything like this happened to her. Then he leaned forward and kissed her lightly, then pulled away and gazed into her eyes. She was shocked, but it was the most amazing thing...until it had stopped. But there was no reason for it to stop, was there?

Without thinking she reached out, grasping the cloth of his shirt and pulling him closer to her. She knew she should stop, she had to stop, but couldn't bring herself to. Aerlinn kissed him again, the world swirling around her in a blur, but it didn't matter; the two of them were the only ones in it.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand was at first taken aback by her response. For some reason he had expected her to protest his rash behavior, but instead she embraced it and returned the favor. He felt her lips against his again, only this time a little harder and with a little more passion. Brand was overcome. He could no longer think any rational thought. So he didn't even try. Instead he just did what his heart instructed. He put his hands on each side of her head, his fingers lightly covering her pointed ears. He kissed her back, this time not withholding his passion. And suddenly he felt free...at least, more free than he had in a long time.

But finally he forced himself to pull away, but he kept his hands where they were, just barely touching her delicate ears. He looked at them thoughtfully, gently running a finger along the tip of one of them and then around the rest until he reached the earlobe. Then he looked into her eyes again.

"You are so beautiful," he whispered.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn shivered again, visibly this time, at his touch to her ears. She was crying openly now, tears of happiness and utter confusion. She wiped a tear, ashamed to have cried so much in the last few days. She had not cried in so long...not at her father's death, not at her departure from her beloved brother...even through her own exile she remained without tears. What was it about this man that made her so emotional? She had met him not even two days ago, and already he had broken her heart, then shown her she still had one...but what now? These thoughts rushed through her head, though she gave voice to none of them; Brand still held her eyes.

She attempted to speak. "I--I--" She could not form the words, though she had no idea what she was going to say. Aerlinn bowed her head and covered her face in her hands, feeling her tears splash onto her palms. Finally she lifted her head, catching his gaze again. "Why me?" she asked. "Oh, Brand, why me?"
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand smiled slightly, and it was a true smile, one that lit up his eyes, and one that stayed for longer than a second. It lingered on his lips as he brushed her tears away with his thumb.

"I don't know," he said softly. "I do not understand my own heart. For I swore never to...never to feel anything like this again. And yet...the first time I saw you..." He trailed off, not able to form his thoughts into words. He leaned forward and kissed her again, then wiped away the fresh tears that had fallen from her eyes. "Sweet Aerlinn," he whispered. "Don't be ashamed. It is just us two here, and I think no ill of you. You are an angel that has lifted me out of a cold dungeon. I feel the sun on my face for the first time..."

He couldn't speak further. Tears were stinging the backs of his eyes but he forced them to remain back there. He would not cry, he would not.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn again saw the unimstakable tears growing in his eyes as he spoke, and the truth that shone there. She inhaled deeply, trying to comprehend what was going on in her head. "Oh, Brand," she said again. No one had ever said anything like that to her before; she did not know how to respond to such a thing. She could not stop picturing his face in her head, though he was before her; she pictured his smile over and over.

She reached out and put her hand to his face, stroking his cheek as he had done hers. A bit of dark hair had come out of his ponytail, she tucked it behind his ear. "You should smile more often," she said. "The world is a better place when you smile."
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand couldn't help but smile at that, though it was brief. He shook his head, then looked up at her. "Thank you," he whispered. "My smiles fled a long time ago, and I never thought they would return." He paused, placing his hand over hers, pressing it against his cheek and closing his eyes. "You brought my smiles back to me," he said, one tear finally squeezing past his shield. He kept his eyes closed tightly, not daring to open them for fear that his dam would break, and that was one thing he refused to let happen. But it was very hard to keep such control, for this elf-maid was doing strange things to his emotions. He couldn't control them, and it was a little bit scary.

[Telumehtar]

The elf blushed a bit, a small grin tugging at the corners of her mouth. I was right, she thought. I knew I could find a heart somewhere in him...though I did not expect to find it in such a way. A tear made its way slowly down his cheek, and Aerlinn instinctively brushed it away with her finger. His eyes were closed, she wished he would open them so she could see the beauty there...she loved his grey eyes.

But even in this tender moment distress managed to find her; she had remembered something. You are an elf! her mind seemed to scream at her. Elves and mortals cannot do this, cannot be together in the way you are thinking! "But remember Luthien and Beren..." another part of her mind contradicted. Yes, and she lost her immortality, do you not remember? the first voice said. It seemed that a cold fist had suddenly clutched her heart and kept it in its freezing grasp. Finding Brand was the first good thing that had happened to her in so long, and the thought that it could not be caused her heart and mind to ache.

Would I be willing to take the path of Luthien? she wondered. Then she looked upon Brand's face, saw his expression, the truth there, and the answer came to her unbidden. Yes.

"An cilmenya ná yana Tindomerelo," she whispered aloud to herself, so softly that she could not tell is Brand had heard. She hoped not. "For my choosing is that of Luthien."
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand opened his eyes after hearing her soft whisper. He didn't know exactly what she said, but he didn't really need to know, he could see it in her eyes, and that look made not only his heart break, but the dam behind his eyes as well. Tears began to pour down his cheeks, but he no longer made any attempt to stop them. He just stared into her eyes, while his own eyes sparkled with emotion. He shook his head and took her hand from his face, holding it in both of his own. He brought her hand to his lips and kissed it several times.

"How?" he asked her in a whisper. "How could an elf love a man? I am not worth your love, my Lady. I am not worthy of anyone's love. Why would you give yourself to me?"

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn stared directly into his face. "It is easier than you would think, Brand," she replied. "I did not know it was possible to love after but two days...and I thank you for proving me wrong. You've shown me--" here her voice broke. She swallowed hard and continued. "You've shown me not to give up hope when I have none." And as the tears ran down both of their cheeks, she embraced him.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand put his arms around Aerlinn and held her as close as he could without actually pulling her off of her horse, though he would have loved to do that. Nothing would please him more than to ride with her infront of him in the saddle. But he would not even suggest such a thing, since it was unnecesary, as she had her own horse.

Finally he pulled away and looked her in the eye again. And it was in that moment when he knew...knew with all his heart that he could not let her go so easily. Their meeting had not been chance, he knew that now. She had taken a piece of him, and he could not easily part with it. But he was still afraid, afraid of losing what he had just found...like he had lost it once before. But it's too late now, a voice in his head reminded him. It's too late, you've already given your heart...there is no way you're getting out of this with it still in one piece. He knew that to be true. Was it worth it?

He cupped her cheek with his hand and gazed into her eyes. "I've known you for less than two days...I barely know you..." he said softly. "And yet...I love you." Those were the words that sealed it for him. Now there was no going back. He may crash, yes. He may crash hard, and might not ever recover. But he knew that it would be worth it, for one brief moment of happieness.

He leaned toward her again and kissed her deeply, such joy welling in him that he had not felt in half his life time.

[Ceri Bloom]

Cerridwen walked through the dusty twilight of the garden, with trees and flowers alik lit by glowing orbs. It was raining, a steady drizzle that almost immediately soaked her to the skin. Cerridwen walked slowly, savouring the feeling of contenment and running her fingers along the plants she passed.

Being lost in her thoughts, Cerridwen strayed off the main path that she was following, and began down a less used, unlit path. Her thoughts were concentrated on the elf she had spent the day with, the one she thought would understand why she was here. She came into a small clearing, where light from the stars cast dappled shadows in leaves and onto the ground. She heard a movement in the shadows, and moved closer to find out what it was, all guard and pretence put aside.

Lying in the shadows she found a sleepy elf, who reminded her of someone she once knew...

"Faervelui??"

[Hobbit]

Mornar saw Rananar emerge behind a group of elven soldiers and at exactly the same moment she spotted him standing near Caranthir's tent. Their gazes met and Mornar saw his growing smile mirrored in the light, happy green that swirled in Rananar's eyes.

At first he wanted to run to her, embrace her and tell her all the thousands things that have been spinning in his mind ever since their last meeting. But then the many armored figures that swarmed around them returned to his mind. There was no need for them to be witnesses of his feelings for her.
Rananar read Mornar's thoughts directly from his eyes. She understood and agreed.

Calmly she walked over to Mornar and the soldier standing next to him. They had been ordered to guard Caranthir's tent.
"I wish to speak to lord Caranthir", she said with a neutral voice, without looking at anyone directly.
"Lord Caranthir is in an urgent meeting with his staff, my lady!" Mornar said, also trying to sound normal. He wanted to hide the enormous happiness that rose inside of him. The happiness of Rananar's presense and of hearing her soft, melodious voice.
"Then nature of my visit is equally urgent", Rananar replied. She quickly winked at Mornar when the other elf wasn't looking.
"All right, my lady", Mornar responded, sharing a quick glance with the second guard, "I will take you to him. Follow me please!"
Then Mornar disappeared inside the tent and Rananar followed right behind him, leaving the other guard outside on his own.

As soon as the tent shielded them from strange eyes, they embraced each other and laughed softly and joyfully. The tent was huge and consisted of many different compartments. The voices of Caranthir and his captains sounded pretty far away, somewhere from the back of the tent. As long as Rananar and Mornar spoke softly no one would notice their little meeting, save for the statue of Feanor that was positioned near the entrance.

The stone figure was about as tall as Mornar, but towered above him because of the huge granite pedestal it was placed upon. He was clad in stone armor and with his sword raised, he saluted everyone who entered. On his face was a self assured grin, an arrogant grin perhaps to those who did not hold Feanor in high regard.

Mornar had noticed the weapons Rananar now carried. When he asked about them, she handed him one of the knives. Mornar looked at it in amazement.
''Extraordinary...", Mornar whispered as he examined the blade.
"Curufin gave it to me." Rananar smiled proudly. "He forged it himself... a beautiful gift." Mornar handed her back the weapon. "That reminds me, I've got a gift for you too." He picked something out of his pocket, but his closed palm hid it from Rananar's gaze.
"It might not be as beautiful as lord Curufin gift, but I hope you will appreciate it just as much."
He took her hand and softly pushed his gift inside her palm. Gently he closed her fingers around it.
Then he stepped back and exchanged a short look with Feanor. For a moment his smile was kind and friendly, instead of proud and arrogant. He seemed touched by the sentiment he witnessed.
Rananar opened her hand...

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel rode through the wilderland swiftly. She had been away from home far too long, she thought fleetingly, as her steed, Huinor, passed through the mundane landscape around them like a grey shadow, mingling with the shadows of the coming night. It was dusk, though no sunset could be seen through the thick, black clouds of smoke that rose out of Angband; soon, night would find her, once more in the dismal lands surrounding the fortress and territory of the Enemy;but it couldn't be helped.

"I shouldn't have come this far north", she thought to herself,though she did not really regret her decision. She was free to go as she pleased, she had made that absolutely clear to her family, and since none dared venture into or near Morgoth's realm since the Nirnaeth Arnoediad(OOC:I think we are after this battle, right?)she had felt someone had to come out here...scout the hostile lands in an attempt to make out something, anything of the enemy's movements.

"And it had to be you, didn't it?" a wicked little voice retorted somewhere in the back of her mind. She shook her head, seeking to drive it out; the fallout between her and her family, the sons of Feanor, was too recent...too painfully recent to remember.They had not wanted her to go off on her own; she had defied them and had taken off into the night; she wasn't even sure she was welcome home anymore, but her mission had not been without a point; she had gathered the information needed...and home was where she was heading, welcome or not!Not that her kinsmen could ever hold a grudge against her, she thought, trying to amuse her nervousness;she and Rananar were among their favourites.

She paused, stopping Huinor, to look around. She was travelling through the land known as Anfauglith,she knew quite well; in fact, she had almost reached its end; soon, she would skirt the Ered Gorgoroth, from the west, bypassing the Swampland and head for Doriath; she hoped to make a brief stop there, and then travel home with no further delay-though she was not sure she was welcome in the kingdom of Thingol.

As she resumed her course, she got a brief glimpse of the sun, dipping low beneath the horizon somewhere on her left;moments later, an impenetrable darkness, ominous and chilling to the heart settled upon the once-green plains. Night fell so abruptly that Ithildiel almost lost her sense of direction for a while. But she didn't pause;instead, she urged her horse on, speeding up.Somewhere in the distance behind her, she could hear the cries of wolfpacks, faint, but closing fast, having caught her scent; she had evaded them before,as she travelled south, but there was nowhere to hide in this open, barren land;their howls told her they were too many for her to stand and fight;she had no choice but to run. A silver-grey lightning passing through the shadows of the night, Huinor charged forward;the wolf cries kept approaching,their call suddenly wilder, piercing the stillness of the bleak night; they had picked up the trail.

[Friend of Maglor]

Rananar looked down at her palm. Upon it there lay something fashioned of silver, a ring. It was made of intertwined filaments… in the shape of a willow.

“Oh Mornar,” she breathed, “it’s so beautiful…” she slid it onto her finger. Her hand found its place in his once more. “So,” she said in a very low, almost timid voice “if I cannot look into the silver of your eyes, at least I may have a reminder to warm my thoughts of you.” She looked up again, and into his face. Full of overwhelming peace, she put her arms around him. He drew her close, his eyes never leaving hers, his black hair falling against hers like shadows. “Still must the Valar love us, if they have led me to thee,” she whispered.

The sound of the rustle of cloth made them both start. Mornar straightened and looked up in alarm, but still held her hand in his. Light footfall approached them, and Rananar wondered if it was Caranthir. “Go,” she whispered to Mornar, “seek me as the sun sets, for still there is much I would speak of…”

“I will find you,” he said resolutely “a council is to be held tonight, and my presence is nowhere required. And I suppose that the others wonder greatly at the length of time it seems to take to escort you from one room to another.” Rananar laughed under her breath then listened, but the footsteps were upon them now, and the tapestry across the back entrance was pushed aside…

[Melathwen]

She never came. All through the dinner, one of the twins was watching the door, but it never so much as twitched. When the meal ended and they could leave respectfully, they rose as one and, without the slightest hint of communication, walked outside in unison, making their way swiftly to the pond where they had, between them, led her earlier.

There was no sign of Cerridwen there, either, and, admitting defeat, they returned to their rooms, to see about packing the last of their belongings and making sure everything was ready for the morning. They would be leaving at first light.

Amrod finished this preparation first, being the neater of the twins, and he came into Amras' room just as he finished. The room was, as always, a shambles, and there were still several feathers dotted about. Amras never bothered to clean his room, and because of this was not popular with the servants, and Amrod never ceased to wonder how his twin lived in such a way.

'What do you think we should do?' Amrod asked, shifting a pile of clothes from the bed and sitting down on it. He would have used a chair, but there was less stuff on the bed. Amras looked up from where he was bent over his pack, trying to fit everything in. He always tried to take too much with him, too. There was no need for Amrod to explain his question; the twins usually started conversations with each other in the middle and were so well attuned that there were very few occasions when one did not understand the other even with a lack of explanation.

'I don't know. If we can't find her, then we can't ask her to come with us, can we? We can't delay our departure tomorrow, either, and I'm sure she won't be up by the time we've left. Not if she doesn't know we're leaving.' At that Amrod sprang up, pointing at his twin but inarticulate in his excitement. Amras sat and waited patiently, knowing his twin would calm down and talk soon enough. Probably too soon.

'That's it! 'if she doesn't know we're leaving'! We'll just have to tell her then, won't we?' Amrod paced excitedly, pleased that he had thought of a solution to their problem.

'And how are we supposed to do that if we don't know where she is?' Amras asked dryly, continuing to pack his bag. He'd listen when his brother's proposals became practical. Amrod stopped, and the look on his face was so comical that Amras burst out laughing, then toppled backwards at a casual kick from Amrod. Picking himself up, still laughing, Amras launched himself at his brother and tackled him to the ground. They landed in a heap, happily kicking and punching each other.

Eventually Amras managed to pin Amrod to the floor, his arms twisted up above his head in what Amras knew perfectly well was a painful position. Amrod had used it on him plenty of times. 'Let me up, Amras,' Amrod pleaded, and, grinning, Amras did so. He did not, however, give Amrod a hand in rising to his feet; Amrod had used that far too many times to pull him over his head.

'I know, we could leave her a letter. She'll see it when she comes in, and then if she'd like to join us, she can,' Amras said. Amrod considered the idea for a while, then nodded. Seeing his twin's agreement, Amras waded over to his desk and began searching through it for a piece of parchment and a pen. He came up with them triumphantly, shoved several piles of paper onto the floor to clear a space to write, shifted another couple from his chair and sat down. Amrod had cleared a larger space ont he bed and was reclining peacefully, watching his brother with an affectionate smile on his face.

[Evenstar]

Faervelui had spent the day wondereing aimlessly, constantly terrified of the dark shadows that never left the corner of her eye. More than once she had heard noises in the dark, arcane cries that were not uttered by children of Iluvatar. She knew she was lost. Bitter questions ran through her mind, poisonous voices whispering things in her head, that she would die out here alone, and her family would never know...

She walked for ages. She never seemed to leave one forest before she was entering a darker one. Her clothes, unsuitable for journeying, were muddied and torn. She was filled with a desperation, her heart was crying out, I want to live! I have to live! Twilight turned the sky to blue-grey, and she collapsed on the ground, weariness ran through her whole being.

Somewhere in the darkness a voice was speaking her name.

'Faervelui?...'

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn was completely unaware of her surroundings, so focused was she on the man's words. "I've known you for less than two days...I barely know you," he said, and terrible dread hit the elf maiden suddenly; her heart seemed to stop its steady beat. Was he saying what she thought he was? That what she felt for him...he did not feel it as well? That he did not return her undoubtable love? But then he continued to speak, as Aerlinn held her breath in suspense.

"And yet...I love you," he said. A small smile was on his lips, a strange look in his eye. It was a mix of confusion and happiness, and the effect was overall wonderful. She loved his eyes...

As Brand kissed Aerlinn once more, her heart flooded with an emotion she had not felt in many years: joy. Fierce joy, in an almost palpable form, rushed through her veins. She returned his kiss, reaching up to place her hand on the back of his neck. His hair was coming loose from the ponytail he wore, and she wound a lock of his dark hair around her finger, their faces still tilted forward in a kiss. Once they parted she took both of his hands in her own and looked into his eyes sincerely.

"Melin yë," she said softly. The fact that he would not understand the language crossed her mind, but she said the words for her own benefit. She loved him, and she had told him so, but to say the words in her own tongue solidified it. Solidified the feeling.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand smiled again when he heard the words. He knew enough Elvish to know what she said, and it filled him with an even greater happiness, though it still confused him. How could she love him? She was an elf, and he, a mortal. How could she give up her life for him so easily?

She was holding his hands, but he took hers and brought them to his lips, softly kissing her fingers. Erelas pawed the ground impatiently and blew through her nose. "We should move on," Brand said quietly. But he didn't want to let go of her. He wanted to hold her in his arms, something he didn't really get to do yet, and the desire was strong. But they really did need to get going. The day was wearing on, and soon it would be evening.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Dawn broke in the east, masked, as it were, by heavy clouds, that seemed to linger in the air, unmoving. Ithildiel had been riding all night and the tiredness began to catch up to her. She felt Huinor's neck; the great horse was sweating and had already staggered more than once. She knew she had to stop and rest both her mount and herself and soon. She couldn't go on like this for much longer. All night she had ridden hard, trying to keep one step ahead of the hunting wolf-hordes that prowled the wildlands; she would have preferred to stand and fight, but knew full-well she had no chances at all alone against all of them; a pack she might be able to handle, she thought coolly, but more...they'd flank her and she would be lost. And that was something she could not do; she had to make it back to Maedhros, tell him all she had seen in the borders of Angband. Already, she had had to make her way through some beasts who had tried to intercept her;one had bitten her, its sharp fangs penetrating the sturdy leather boots to find its way to the flesh beneath. The boot was covered in blood and her leg hurt terribly, but there was nothing for it; she was glad Huinor had sped off, terrified by the sudden attack and her pursuers had been left swiftly behind.

Relieved, she noticed the wolf cries faded, as the sun, finally gaining the jeavy canopy of clouds, rose over the horizon; Morgoth and Sauron's beasts could not abide sunlight and the wolves now returned to their dark keeps, abandoning the quarry that had eluded them most of the night; well, the quarry had no plans to spend another night in this god-forsaken land, Ithildiel thought, unable to contain a smile of relief. Up ahead, she could see the mountains closing in; soon, she would find herself following the river Sirion, past the Tol and possibly through Doriath-which was, after all, the safest road-where she hoped to get some real rest before returning home.

Feeling the weariness increase, she turned towards the Springs of Sirion and soon dismounted in a small clearing, filled with trees. A little further, a small crystal spring stood, it's clean water trickling merrily and gaining strength a little way down, as it slowly became the great river...the road she was to follow. She let Huinor graze freely and the large animal drank his fill from the small pond forming near the spring;Ithildiel followed his example, filling her water flask as well; she proceeded to take a look at her injury, knowing she had had worse. Getting the boot off, though, left her struggling not to scream, the pain was unbearable. Luckily, she thought, a little relieved, the bite did not seem poisoned; she washed it thoroughly and tied it with a strip from her cloak. Then, weary from the 36-hour march at full speed, she rolled herself in her cloak and fell asleep.

[Ceri Bloom]

"Faervelui?" ( i will never be able to spell that!) "Is that you?" Cerridwen's face grew deathly pale as the figure on the ground did not answer her, merely lay still. Rushing to the young elf, her gown billowing around her in the dark, Cerridwen knelt next the elf, calling her name once again, and placing a hand on the figures forehead. She sighed with relief. Faervelui was alive, but she still didnt wake. Cerridwen began to panic.

"Ai Faervelui, i am here to help, come back to me" Cerridwen spoke in her home tongue, desperation bringing the words to her lips. Slowly as she waited the elf in front of her strirred.
Not waiting any more, Cerridwen gently took the still half unconcsious elf's hand and pulled her, helping her to gain steady ground by placing her arm round her waist. Between them they managed to slowly get back to the entrance to the main hall of the house, walking as one, and taking main routes. In the slow journey Cerridwen's dress had been torn apart, and now hung in sparkling limp rags from her desirable form. At the door a servant relieved Cerridwen of the limp elf, taking her off to a room and a small cot to rest, and recover.

Cerridwen now having a considerably lighter load decided to go back and gather the elf's things. Her head rang with worry and hurt; hurt that Faervelui had not immediately recognised her voice. It had never happened before, when they were younger whenever Faervelui was hurt she would always be able to distinguish Cerridwen's voice. A single tear drifted down her cheek as she made her way back to the twilight ridden glade, having to double back many times, as she had forgotten her way. Something dreadful must've happened to her best friend, to make her forget. More tears fell between retrieving the left items and returning to her rooms, but Cerridwen only brushed them away distractedly. She was beginning to wish she had gone to dinner, as her head was telling her she had a large gap somewhere around her midrif.

Laying the Elf's things in a passage near her own rooms, Cerridwen set off in search of the kitchen, and begged a small meal from one of the last cooks still up. Carrying her dinner wrapped in a piece of cloth, Cerridwen slowly floated back to her room, her heart and head full of memories of when she was younger, before her troubles began. Faervelui had always been there for her, yet had never been involved. Could Cerridwen's rash actions have hurt Faervelui. She shuddered at the thought and forced her self not to think.

On Reaching her rooms Cerridwen sat down on her bed, removing the little that was left of her gown. She looked at the remains guiltily, then placed them in the next room. She was ashamed that she could do that to such a beautiful gift, if it was even a gift.

Walking back to the bed she sat down, intending only to spend a minute unbraiding her hair. The next minute she had crumpled over, fast asleep. She had not realised how tired she truly was, and had overreached her reserves of conciousness. rolling over into a more comfortable position, Cerridwen frowned in her sleep.

[Telumehtar]

"Yes," Aerlinn answered distractedly. "We should be moving on..."

She gazed over her shoulder at the mountains, her thoughts less labyrinthine than before. She stared at their surroundings, absorbing the beauty that was facing her from all angles. The mountains were tall, but not alarming....but how many times had she gazed at that very same grouping of peaks? How many times had she seen other mountains that, no matter the day or season, had seemed menacing? These did not seem threatening, but for what reason? What had brought about that change in her perspective? She turned her head and glanced at Brand, who was looking at her a bit quizzically. And now I behold the reason, she thought as she saw his kind but still slightly guarded face. It was obvious now; he was the reason. Nothing had seemed ominous to her since he had come into her life so suddenly and unexpectedly. She had felt threatened and small, vulnerable while pretending to be stoic, for years.

It frightened her, the hold this man had over her thoughts and emotions. He had invoked in her every feeling one could have: anger, frustration, despair, passion, happiness, fear, and now fierce love. How could this be? What magic does he have? Aerlinn wondered. But now was not a time to contemplate. Now was a time to enjoy the happiness she had been graced with....for if she had learned one thing in life, it was that no good things lasted long enough. She was determined not to waste a minute of this....this joy.

Aerlinn turned again and smiled at Brand. "Yes, we should be heading off again. The horses are anxious, and night will fall shortly."
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand nodded, then nudged his horse into a gallop, and she was quite ready to go. He could hear Aerlinn's horse keeping pace behind him, and the knowledge that she was there made him feel very good. He wasn't alone, and for the first time that fact didn't bother him. Now he never wanted to be alone again...he must always have her at his side...or else what was there worth living for? He had died once already...if he had to do it again he knew it would be the last time.

Up ahead the mountains were drawing very close. Even with the long pause in their travels, Brand knew that they would reach the foot of the mountains by nightfall, and maybe even reach the pass, though that was pushing it. Earlier they had planned to part ways at the pass...he guessed that would not happen now...at least, he hopped it wouldn't...

((Hey Telu, you can have them deciding to make camp if you want. Or at least mention that it's dark in your next post and that they have been traveling for hours. Then I can post Brand deciding that they should make camp...))

[Evenstar]

When Faervelui woke she was at home, lying in her own bed and covered by warm blankets. There was sunlight streaming in through the window onto her face, and her vision was slightly dazzled. Sleepily she rolled slightly, letting the nightmare fade away bit by bit.

Someone had changed the wall hangings while she slept. Instead of the familiar navy blue they were now a pale yellow, flecked with gold. And they were further away from the bed than they used to be... but that couldn't be possible, unless someone had moved the wall back.

Blinking the sunlight out of her eyes the raven-haired elf propped herself up against the pillows. An uncontrolled gasp escaped her lips. She was not in her own room, nor was she in any other room in her home, for none had wall hangings like those she saw.

Memories camse back to her then, they flooded into her mind like the sunlight through the window... of the nightmare that was reality, of the unfamiliar voice calling her name. Where was she? Apprehension gripped her mind, and a little voice called inside her heart, I am lost, I am lost.

Faervelui climbed out of the bed with less grace than her kind were used to. The fear of the darkness had gone, but in her mind there was a new worry: just who had taken her in? Were they even of the elvenkind?

She felt very young and alone, and yet inside her there was a new strength growing, one which she had never needed before. Silently she slipped through the oaken door, and her bare feet padded along the hallway.

---

Melathwen said, 'We should stop here.'

Acharne, who had been lost in her thoughts, looked up in surprise. She had not noticed the passing of the day, or the twilight that crept up on them. She nodded, and they brought the horses to a halt.

In silence they cared for the horses, and found a place to make camp. Together they built a fire, just large enough to cook their food on. Neither elf minded the silence. Melathwen had a wistful look on her face, and Acharne could see that her thoughts were elsewhere than their small camp.

She finished her meal and rose, walking a short way off to give her companion some privacy. The night air was cool and her unbraided hair blew a little in the wind. Self-conciously Acharne checked her weapons were all in place; they were, except for the dart which she usually wore in her hair: she had tucked it into her boot.

The sky was a dusty blue, and the stars were many; there was no cloud tonight, but no moon either. There were many trees close by; she suspected they were on the edge of a forest. The rustling leaves seemed to be speaking a strange language, that of the trees. But it sounded familiar to her. And now she thought of it... she recognised the trees, and the leafy smell, and the star-patterns in the sky.

Acharne saw the fire behind her, like a tiny eye in the darkness. Melathwen was still beside it; she had cleared up from their meal. Acharne wandered back towards her.

'Do you know where we are?' she asked, trying to make her voice sound as casual as possible. 'This place seems familiar to me.'

The golden-haired elf looked up, her eyes gleaming in the firelight. 'We are on the outskirts of Doriath,' she replied, 'but I do not think it would be wise to go any closer in. The residents have no great liking for my people.'

'No,' Acharne agreed. Not wise at all. And not just for you.

[Telumehtar]

(Okay, Wil!! :p)

The sky had grown progressively darker over the hours they had ridden, and now it was dusk. The sun had sunken behind the mountains already, and a faint glow of light rose above the peaks. Aerlinn was beginning to tire, and she could sense that Nárë was as well. He was still galloping steadily, his legs seeming to fly over the turf, but sweat soaked his flanks and his mouth was beginning to froth slightly. She leaned over his neck, whispering in her own tongue. He was accustomed to her commands, for she rode with neither saddle nor bridle. She had been using a bridle when she came to the city, but had stowed it in her pack, knowing the stallion disliked it. Nárë slowed to an easy lope, snorting in protest.

"You know not what is good for you, my friend," Aerlinn said to him with a grin. She turned to look at Brand, who was at her side. His presence comforted her, especially now that it was growing dark and she was unsure about their exact location. "Brand?" she said softly, then realized he probably could not hear her. She repeated herself, more loudly this time. "Brand, should we stop to make camp? It grows dark..." she gestured at the mountains ahead, now naught but dark figures in the coming night. "Nárë has ridden harder than is good for him," she said, smiling. The horse's sweat was beginning to seep through to her extra cloak, which she had placed over his back at the beginning of their ride to protect him from her pack rubbing on his skin.
~Telu :flamer:

[Hobbit]

The sun had descended slowly in the west, tired of spreading his energy across the lands and happy to let the moon enlighten the night for him.
Arien had hidden her vessel under the earth, were no elf or man could see it's light and now she slowly lead it back to the east were it would rise with new power for a new journey around the skies. But that moment was still a night away. Darkness had just fallen and the moon and stars had barely made their appearance. The sons of Feanor had organized an important council this evening and the many elves that wanted to attend were assembling near the center of the encampment. This was indeed the perfect time for Mornar to meet with Rananar.

As he looked for her in the great mass of elves, he thought of what had happened that afternoon. Lord Caranthir had found them together near the entrance of his tent. Mornar had told Caranthir that Rananar had wanted to speak with him and then he had quickly exited the room. But Rananar had a quite a long chat with the son of Feanor and Mornar wondered what they had talked about. He couldn't help feeling Caranthir was suspicious of him and Rananar. He had instantly noticed it in the look on Caranthir's face when he saw them together. If Caranthir does know about their relationship, he might inform his brothers about it, something Mornar is terribly afraid off. It was obvious some of the sons of Feanor will not accept a romance between a woman of their own high kin and a servant, no matter how fierce the love on both sides. Rananar was already very close to his heart and the thought of not being able to be with her…

Mornar still hadn't seen her, when suddenly somebody took his hand in a grip both gentle and firm and lead him away from the cluster of figures in the camp, towards the outskirts of the forest. The person wore a dark cloak and hood, but Mornar instantly knew who it was. The small look she gave him was little more then a confirmation to him. Rananar...
When the light of campfires no longer lit their bodies and the cover of darkness protected them from watchful eyes, they started running. Running like playing children. Together they fled into the woods.

[Friend of Maglor]

Flitting over the darkening mosses of the wood floor, their merriment ringing in and out of the hollows, Rananar and Mornar at last came to rest in a wide clearing beneath the tent-like veil of a willow. Pushing aside the wispy branches with one hand, Mornar helped Rananar beneath it, then settled himself across from her with both of her hands in his. Gazing into his face happily Rananar found her mind coursing as a river of memory, rippling with questions. It is so sudden, so sudden that I have come to love him she thought. It was no uncommon thing, for the hearts of elves to be kindled in love by a mere glance. Her mother had told her that there were many elves in Valinor, who knew their future mates by first sight even as children, drawn already to one another in heart. A strange and woeful fate indeed led an elf to never marry. For long after the Kinslaying, Rananar had thought this fate was hers… but not anymore.

She wondered greatly what her kindred would say. Fëanor had married Nerdanel much out of his own station, indeed, her beauty had not been of any consequence either; but those were in happier days, and the hierarchy among the elves had become more significant. Maglor would understand, she knew… but she wondered about the others. As for her conversation with Caranthir…her eyes sparkled.

“Mornar,” she said with feigned gravity, “I have spoken with my kinsman, the Lord Caranthir. Inactivity suits me ill, and I have requested that he obtain Maedhros’ permission for me to hunt in the outskirts of the wood.” Mornar looked at her questioningly, and she continued, holding back her smile, “Of course, I would never be allowed to go gallivanting of in such a manner unattended,” her smile now escaped, “but on the condition that I have a guard to attend me…” Mornar looked at her in disbelief, then laughed joyfully. She laughed too now, and moved to sit beside him, now both leaned against the trunk of the willow, laughing and looking up at the network of tousled branches. As they fell silent once more, Rananar turned to Mornar earnestly, and summoned the courage to speak the thoughts which had been whispering in her heart since their first meeting. “Mornar, I…” she looked into his eyes intently, “I love you very much. And I know that the love borne for you I could never feel for any other… and I would rather suffer the disapproval of all my kin for your sake than betray love and keep their favor.” Mornar did not speak, but pulled her to him tightly. They held one another for a long time… and then Rananar pressed something into Mornar’s hand.

It was a silver ring, given to her at her birth. A star, like that of the Fëanorean household, but with thinner, wavy rays, was set in silver and crystal at its center. Two bands, like twin silver rivers, looped and threaded into a circle. It had been given to her by her mother, and written on the inside of the upper band was Elenára, her birth-name. “You have given me a gift,” she whispered, “and now I give you mine, and with it, my eternal promise.”

[Wilwarin]

Brand looked up at the sky when he heard Aerlinn's words. Only then did he notice how dark it had become. He had been lost in his own thoughts for so long, he had paid no attention at all to the time of day, nor the condition of his horse.

"Yes," he said, in answer to her question. "We will stop. I know we are all tired." He pointed to a small grove of trees not too far away. "Over there," he said, then reigned Erelas in that direction.

When they reached the grove they discovered a nice clearing in the center of it that was perfect for a camp. And a short distance away a small waterfall trickled down the side of a rocky cliff and into a small pool no larger than water basin.

Brand dismounted and then went around to help Aerlinn from her horse. He knew she didn't need help, but it was a good excuse to be close to her again. Once her feet were on the ground he held her there, his hands lightly resting on her slim waist. He looked down into her eyes, a slight smile appearing on his face. He bent down and kissed her lightly on the lips.

This was heaven...it had to be, there was nothing better than this. And she was here with him now, not leaving, and not dying...she was real...he was touching her and she was so close. The happiness he was feeling couldn't be described in mere words, but it was clearly seen in his eyes.

[Friend of Maglor]

The heavy doors were shut with a sound like foreboding thunder. Maedhros, son of Feanor, took his place in a ring of stone seats. His bright eyes darted over all assembled; Curufin, sitting stiffly, wouldn’t let his serpentine eyes meet his brother’s yet; Celegorm was already sprawled out, leaning on his arm in a bored manner; he heard Maglor stifle a sigh in his seat beside him, his long fingers tensely gripping the armrests—already anticipating conflict; and Caranthir was just taking his seat, clad in stormy grey with a high collar, and he already looked as if he were on the verge of saying something particularly biting. He had not summoned the twins, partly because he felt he could spare them the predictable skirmish, partly because they were not essential to the brothers’ decision-making process. After a moment of stony silence, Maedhros spoke, his low voice ringing in the oval chamber. “Hath ye already grasped at the reason for our meeting at this hour?”

Maglor heard the words of his brother, and his heart was cast down. For only that morning had a great tragedy occurred. An elf, Noldorian, who is gladder days had been one of the bodyguard of Maedhros, but who had been captured by Morgoth when Beleriand was laid waste, had been caught by the wardens at the borders. All hearts grew cold with the arrival of such elves, seeming freed from Morgoth’s trammels… for often they were spies unwilling, unable to break Morgoth’s hold upon them… who returned to him with the news he so desired. This one had been such, though so strong of mind that the conflict of wills was evident in him. He was held for questioning, but upon Maedhros’ arrival to the outpost, escaped. Nigh unto being caught by his pursuers, he had suddenly stood tall, and spoken clearly. Knowing that he was helplessly entrapped beneath the Shadow, he had seized the knife of one of the guards, and taken his own life. Morgoth’s hold upon him would not have permitted the simple passing of will… but with his last breath he cautioned the brother’s to beware of treachery. It could have be the last echo of lies forcibly sown in his mind, but Maglor was not so ready to dismiss the thought when news was given him. War was coming once more.

Maglor’s thoughts were suspended with the sound of Celegorm’s voice,

“I wasn’t aware of any misdeeds that we have committed in any recent time,” he drawled sarcastically, “or do you intend to harp upon past grievances?”

“Peace,” said Curufin abruptly, and Celegorm fell silent. Curufin’s eyes were raised to make an unwavering line with Maedhros’ as he continued. “They are dead.” He said simply, never blinking under his brother’s gaze.

“Yes,” Maedhros replied, “Beren and Luthien have died… the Silmaril is with Thingol.” Maglor tensed. Caranthir was taken aback; a little chagrined that Curufin had been knowledgeable before he.

“Then we know what we must do,” came Celegorm’s voice, booming.

Maedhros held up his hand, “I have summoned ye,” he said, voice stern as stone, “to make it clear that we will do nothing.”

Curufin’s smile was a silent laugh, “I do not think, Maitimo, that we are given that choice.”

Maedhros smiled mirthlessly, “Oh but we are…war is upon us, Curufinwe, and it must needs be the more—pressing– matter at hand.” Curufin’s eyes narrowed dangerously, but he held his peace, and his smile did not fade… if he was going to dissent, he would do it when his argument was infallible.

Caranthir was not so political. “But we cannot do nothing!” he stormed, “even you will admit to that.”

“No,” came Maglor’s melodic voice in response, speaking for the first time. “We will act… we shall send forth our claims by herald.”

“And if they are refused?” Caranthir prompted.

“Ah, but they have not even been sent,” said Maedhros suavely.

“Well played,” murmured Curufin approvingly. Caranthir took his seat.

“But we will voice our claim in no uncertain terms,” said Celegorm. “Of course,” answered Maedhros, “and the rest will be played out as it comes.”

The three took their leave, a dance of wills passing between Maedhros and Curufin until the moment the door closed behind him. Maglor heaved a deep breath, and relaxed a little.

“So,” said Maedhros, “how well do you think we achieved our goals?”

Maglor shook his head, “I am a poet, not a diplomat, Russandol. Curufin always worries me whenever he is out of our sight, Celegorm follows him with loudness—bending wills, and Caranthir will do anything when he is angry. But they knew they were right… it is no choice of ours whether or no will we seek the Silmarils, even under such circumstances.”

“I know,” said Maedhros softly, “which is why I so desire to throw myself into this new task.”

“Raising an army?”

“Aye, and one greater that we have ever amassed before

[Bane of Lunazra]

Ailnoriel bathed silently, letting the water flow about her limbs, relaxing her iminent pain - her tense muscles. She let her hair out of its toggles and it fell down swiftly like black silk to her mid-back. Sinking lower into the hot springs, she let her body fully relax, embracing the healing warmth of the water - her liquid elixir from life's troubles. Her mind played over the last few days like a continuous film, a strip of harmonious memory. She remembered meeting the mighty Maedros, her childhood friend, in the woods southern from where she was at present. He had shared his troubled mind with her, emptying the pain of duty and leadership from his thoughts. He told her of the problems that had risen in her abscence from their society the last 17 years - the desperate struggle against the clutches of Morgoth, how the silmarils had been sought after - how death had resulted... Ailnoriel shed a tear remembering Maedros's words.

"Beren and Luthien have faded... They are..."

His proud eyes flickered, a spot of suffering shining through, "dead."

He turned his fierce crimson head towards the encampment and I realized he was so solitare, so alone.

"Maitimo," I chanced, seeing his reaction to my familiar calling of his name. I was trying to show him I was there, I was his friend.

The strong eyes turned towards me and he came close, taking both of my pale, marble hands into his. Those eyes... they stared fierecly into me. I could see a burning flame there, a living passion. I waited for him to speak.

"It has been 17 years since I ahve looked upon your fair and beautiful face, Ailnoriel... I am glad you have returned to us... to me. I need you here and I won't allow for you to run away from the past again..."

He motioned around, at the looming forest, at the trees and their tops, and the serenity.

"This is how it will be in the end. This is how our world will be after the silmarils are safe or destroyed-" A distant and cold look came into his pupils. He tensed his lips in hatred, utter violent loathing "and when Morgoth hath been vanquished from the face of the living earth!"

He continued, his rough, strong hands pressing into mine with earnest and fervent passion.

"I promise you, that no matter what my end or our peoples, the world will be peaceful again in time..." He released my grip and reached for an enchanting pendant he wore about his neck. I recognized it immediately and protested.

"Maedros, you cannot give me this..." He proceeded and took the Star of Feanor and draped it about my neck, gently. I wished to take it off, to run away from the oath he was silently making me swear. I couldn't.... my emotion was running too high. My mind told me that it was right to stay.

He place his hand on the star and spoke, "Ailnoriel, I am giving this token of responsibility to you for I am not sure if my brothers and I will live to reach the goal of this star..." He closed his fingers over its beauty. "I wish you luck in your journeys and I know we shall meet again soon. It is destined. For now, I must return to my encampment and attend a hearing with my kin. There is a relative of mine whom can help you with what you seek. her name is Rananar. You might remember her from childhood, but I know you despise reliving your past.... So long dear Ailnoriel and keep the star close to you. I am with you..."


The vision faded, the reel stopped. Ailnoriel was clutching the rune-like star of her people - she was a Noldorian elf. She contained the blood of warriors and she knew what she had to do...

"Rananar," she said softly, expecting a wise elf to appear beyond the bubbling water.

She got out of the spring, rejuvenated and alive. After getting dressed, she mounted her horse and rode of towards the encampment and her new beginning....

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn and Brand halted in a small clearing that, too Aerlinn's thinking, was almost too beautiful for words. The trees formed an almost-perfect circle around the clearing, and a tiny waterfall trickled and sang nearby. She smiled as he helped her off her horse, which was unnecessary, though she didn't mind. They stood for a moment, his hands on her waist. He kissed her for the first time in what seemed to be days, though she knew it had only been a few hours. The thought made her grin.

"This place is amazing," she said, taking his hand in hers as she led him to the small pool at the foot of the waterfall. She knelt before the water, pulling him down to his knees beside her. She gazed into the water, seeing their reflection. An elf maiden and a man, side by side, hands clasped. They both were smiling, both looked happy. But what she noticed most were Brand's eyes....the new look in them. When she had met him, his grey eyes were cold, guarded. Now they shone with kindness, caring...with what was undoubtably happiness. "Perfect," she said, and turned her head to kiss him again.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand closed his eyes as he felt her lips against his. Then he put his arms around her and held her tightly, not wanting to ever let go. He sighed, burying his face in her neck, breathing in her sweet sent. "Would that I could live forever," he whispered, "and hold you always by my side." He kissed her neck a couple times, still holding her close. He knew they should start a fire. He knew they should take care of their horses, and get something to eat. But in this moment he wasn't cold, nor was he hungry, and the horses? Which horses were those? In this moment there was only her...she was all that mattered.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn started when she heard his words; they seemed to echo through her. Would that you could also live forever, she thought to herself. For she knew that she was taking the path of Luthien, she was giving up her immortality for this man she loved. "Would that we could both live forever, Brand...together," she whispered.

She tilted her head back, her arms around him. She knew they should start a fire...but the touch of his lips to her neck was fire enough for now.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand leaned forward, causing Aerlinn to fall slowly back into the soft grass by the pool. Brand went with her, still kissing her neck softly. He lay atop her, holding her close to him, and for many minutes they were caught in deep passion. His hands went to her hair and he began to undo the braids that bound it, his fingers tangling in the dark strands. As he continued to kiss her he became so overwhelmed with emotion that tears appeared in his eyes, and were soon trailing down his face, but he didn't stop. He began to kiss her mouth again, though it was difficult as his crying increased. A small, faint cry escaped his throat. What was happening to him? He had never cried like this—especially not in this kind of situation. He was not sad, so what was the reason? As his thoughts raced wildly his tears continued to fall, but he did not stop his gentle loving.

[Hobbit]

Mornar looked with amazement at the gift he had just received. Seldom had he seen a ring of such beauty and such fine craftsmanship. The silver star of the Fëanorean household, in the middle of the two silver bands was decorated with small crystals. Lines were engraved on the inside of the ring. The fine lines formed flowing, curly letters and the letters formed a name, Rananar's birth-name: Elenára

After some encouragement from Rananar, Mornar slipped the ring on his finger. It fitted perfectly, much to Mornar's own surprise, for he knew his fingers were thicker than Rananar's. After putting it on, Mornar smiled gently at Rananar but he felt a bit uneasy. She had said that she was willing to suffer the disapproval of her kin for him. Her love for him was stronger than everything that bound her to her family, stronger than her love and friendship towards the people she had lived with all her life.
He wanted to ensure her that he would make the same sacrifices for her as well. That in his heart, he knew that he would do anything for her. But his mind doubted his heart. He remembered the oath he swore on the day he offered his services to Caranthir, son of Feanor. He remembered how Feanor's sons had fostered him, after his father died. He remembered all they had given him...

Rananar came closer to him. Somehow she had guessed his thoughts and his feelings. She softly pressed her hand against his chest, where his heart suddenly started beating more rapidly. The gesture needed no explanation. It told him not to doubt his heart.
"I don't doubt mine." she whispered, reading his thoughts once again. Then she kissed him. The kiss was short, light and tender, but to Mornar it was a moment of nearly mythical importance. In a few moments, her words and her actions had caused a storm of emotion inside of him and his mind was completely overwhelmed with joy and love. He was intoxicated by these emotions to the point where he felt near drunk on happiness And in a strange yet pleasant haze, he decided to set aside all his doubts and fears and to do what his heart told him.
“Rananar… My Lady. I wish to give you my heart and my soul and with them my eternal promise.”

He knew his concerns would return to him again, if not tonight then tomorrow, when he and Rananar will be parted again. Perhaps he might even live to regret the hasty decision he took, sitting with Rananar on the mosses of the wood floor, underneath the leaves of an old willow. But he knew there was no going back now. They had started down the long and winding road together and he and Rananar will have to follow it wherever it leads, from now on.
He looked deep into Rananar’s eyes, where waves of forest green swirled happily. For the rest of that wonderful and magic evening, Mornar’s decision felt ever so right.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel woke up suddenly! She had slept through most of the day, despite thge fact she had wanted to be on her way by midday. Already the shadows were growing long, the short day coming to its end. Hastily, she poured some water on her face from the spring nearby, refilled her flask, redressed her wound hastily and summoned Huinor to her. She had no desire to spend another night in these dismal lands; she had to move on and do so swiftly.

Soon, she was on the road again, passing like a shadow through the narrow passes of Tol Sirion, ever cautious for any sign of danger, but also...lost in thought.Her thought travelled home again this night...though she was still unsure as to what kind of welcome awaited her there when she returned. Maedhros had been against her going off on her own; Curufin, as well, had objected. "Let us hope that they wil be too happy to see me return unharmed to sermonize me", she smiled unwittingly. Home was still so far away, though..."At least Rananar will take my side", she continued her thinking; her kinswoman's spirit was very much like her own and the relationship between them had always been excellent; they understood eact other perfectly...and Rana had not liked the idea Ithil was going to go on a scouting expedition without her. Ithil sighed. "I hope she is still not upset with me", she thought; she had had to go...their kinsmen had been quite persistent...She was a few years older than Rana, so she would be the one to marry first...to someone of the Teleri, she thought, though she had not stayed to hear any details; nor had she cared to...Her thought travelled to the day she had been told; there had been a terrible fight;she had told her uncles she was not a commodity to be traded off to the bidder who promised the most, or a mindless trinket given to seal a trust or an alliance; she has said she would not marry save for love and had subsequently stormed out of the room, only to depart a few hours later. "No..."she thought a little grimly, "I am not sure at all I will be welcome home..."

Dawn was breaking once more, when she saw the passage open up in front of her; in the distance, still lost in the morning mist, she could discern the dark outline of trees...she was approaching the borders of Doriath, at last.

[Bane of Lunazra]

Luna couldnt help but tarry from her path to the encampment that day. There was a feeling of vital life and spring in the morning air. Her body felt light, untouched, and full of vigor. Nature had given her wings to soar to great heights and she would not ignore them.

With her horse's smooth and muscular movements pounding the soft earth below her, a rhythm ignited in her mind. She began to humm softly to the fleeting woods and trees, her harmonious voice echoing through their boughs and tops.

"Lian grah ni frillah fere..." she spoke to the nearest tree in song. The wind blew softly, embellishing the beauty of the earthern glory of the woods, elf, and beasts' movements. Time seemed to be the only object that was against Luna.

Her eyes closed in somber serenity, she continued on in song, her heart lifting into a silver rhapsody. She could see her old home in her mind, the beautiful woods, the archery range, her brother's sweet protective smile. She could see herself, unweary and vigilant, young and innocent in thought and action.

"Lare ingrah," she spoke in the presence of no one once more, trancelike. Yet, it didn't matter. Her spell she was weaving through the listening trees calmed all: nature was at her feet, grasping for the knowledge and life she spewed generously in melody.

The pendant dangling from her neck flared suddenly, as if a being was trying to reach her. A pair of eyes flashed in her mind and she snapped out of the dreamlike state.

"Maitimo!" she cried, knowing time was fleeting and every moment at waste contributed to his downfall. "I must see Rananar," she exclaimed in a sudden whisper, as if trying to hide the words from the forest's reach.

They rode on, Luna taking the reins, harboring her inner strength into a paced motion for her horse. The encampment was not far off now...

*****

Two elves escorted Luna to the front of a large mahogany building. "Wait here," they stated pompously and marched off to return to their posts.

Luna smiled sarcastically and nodded, thumping down onto a wooden bench, awaiting the elf she was supposed to see. 'What am I doing here?' she thought to herself nervously, the constant instinct invading her private thought pattern. 'If this Rananar figures out who I am or what I've done,' she shuddered, and wrapped her fingers around one of her throwing daggers for security. 'I'm done for...' she sighed anyway.

A tall, robed male elf briskly strode up to her. Eyes ablaze with fervent passion, he motioned towards the door. "Lady Rananar is awaiting you," he stated proudly. There was some deep passion in his voice as he said her name, some intertwined love. Luna smiled slightly and bowed, whisking up the stairs with this elf. She couldn't help but stare into this elf's eyes. They were deep gray orbs of light and strength, pillars of emotion masked by loyalty. Luna studied him and silently approved of Rananar's choice.

She extended a hand as they escalated towards the door, "I am Lunazra, but feel free to call me Luna." She smiled and the eyes studied her again, sizing the action, interpreting. He returned the short embrace and introduced himself to her.

"I am Mornar, Luna," the voice commanded my language, "it is a pleasure to be aquainted with you at last".

[Telumehtar]

(I love that last post, Bane! Awesome!!)

Aerlinn was surprised to see Brand's tears, especially at a time such as this. She looked up at him and spoke his name softly. "Brand," she whispered. Staring into his eyes Aerlinn saw a tear quiver there, others on his dark eyelashes like tiny dewdrops. His tear fell onto her shirt. She reached up and wiped at his wet cheek affectionately.

"You are as confused as I," she said slowly, never taking her eyes from his face. "But do not let your confusion prevent any other emotions, as I have done until now." She stroked his cheek with her fingers, almost unable to bear the perplexity she saw in his face. She gripped his shirt in her hands, pulling him back down to her, pulling his mouth back to hers. If she had learned anything in her life, she had learned never to miss a moment....and this was a moment she planned to prolong as long as possible.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand continued to kiss Aerlinn for a several more minutes, but his tears did not stop. Finally he could not stand it any longer and he began to sob, burying his face in her neck, his fingers still tangled in her hair. Then he rolled over onto his back, still sobbing, and still not understanding why. He didn't want to waste this moment with silly tears. He had a willing elf-maiden in his arms—an elf-maiden he loved more than anything in the world—and here he had to go and ruin it with tears!

But he had to cry, it looked like he had no choice in the matter. "I'm sorry," he managed to whisper between sobs. And suddenly he wanted her to know everything about him. Every secret of his past, all his old hurts and fears...the things that had shaped him into what he was today. But how could he start?

((Telu, do something that might get him to speak, but not too obvious...))

[Telumehtar]

Brand had rolled onto his back, his tears flowing freely. Aerlinn rolled over as well, lying atop him, her arms loosely draped about his neck. "Brand," she whispered, in attempt to make him open his eyes, for they were closed tightly. "Do not be sorry. You have not allowed yourself emotions, as have I, I suspect. But you must let them return," she said softly. Would her words have any effect on him? She knew not.

Staring into his face she saw the anxiety there, and she knew not what she could do to assist him. "Oh, Brand...." she began, then stopped speaking, unable to think of any further words. "I love you," she said, and laid her head on his chest. The material of his shirt was rough against her cheek, but she did not notice. Her arms still around his neck, she waited.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand laid there sobbing for several more minutes, his arms limp at his sides. Finally though, as his crying stilled, he put his arms around Aerlinn and held her close to him. He took several slow, deep breaths, trying to calm himself. When he finally spoke his voice was rough with emotion.

"I haven't cried like that in over ten years," he said softly. "I haven't...haven't let myself cry. But I haven't really needed to either. So why now?" He was quiet for a moment, as if thinking about his own question. But finally he spoke again. "I was married once," he said, his voice barely audible. "Sweet Erelas..." he whispered, closing his eyes, letting a few more tears run down his face. "She was...she was my life. When she died there was nothing left to live for...I didn't want to live anymore. For eleven years I have not experienced a single happy day, or had a single happy thought. I have not shed a tear, nor smiled...nor loved." He paused, opening his eyes and looking intently into hers. "But then I met you...it was as if my life returned to me. I...I rejected it at first, but it was too insistent. It would not let me go on existing without really living."

He paused again, reaching up to gently stroke her cheek. "Erelas has finally left me, Aerlinn...I have finally let her go...now there is just you." He put his other hand on her other cheek and brought her face to his. He kissed her gently, his heart swelling with so much love, it nearly overwhelmed him. He looked up at her again and a smile slowly spread across his face, lighting up his eyes as he gazed at her. "Sweet Aerlinn..." he whispered, just loving the sound of her name on his lips.

[Telumehtar]

When Brand began to speak Aerlinn sat up suddenly, supporting herself on bent elbows. "Married?" she whispered, so softly she knew he could not hear her. He continued to speak, and her mind whirled once more. This man had been through so much...though she had as well. Should she tell him her past...?

He finished his tale, then pulled her into his arms and kissed her. He whispered her name, his eyes lit up like candles. Aerlinn loved him so much, and he had finally opened his hidden heart....had shared his pain with her. "I wish there were something I could say, some word I could speak, to make your pain disappear, Brand. Perhaps I can help you to heal...but in turn I need your help." Was this really her speaking? Did she just admit she wanted the assistance of another? Well, she could not turn back now...she had to tell him.

She took a deep breath and lowered her head, looking at her lap. A butterfly, gorgeously colored with blue and black, had landed on her leg. It took off as she opened her mouth to speak. "I also have a story to tell, but I know not where to begin..." She paused, remembering...
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand looked at Aerlinn sitting on his stomach. He put his hands on each side of her waist, listening to her words. He wanted to know all there was about her, everything. He reached up and fingered a lock of her hair, smiling slightly. "The beginning," he said softly. "Start at the beginning..."

[Friend of Maglor]

That was the tolling of indissolubility. They were bound by mutual consent and a love that had drenched them like the unbidden summer rains. Their parting kiss still burned in her eyes as Rananar threw herself onto her pallet, arm flung over her head and her hair spreading over half of it. They had tarried all the night in the wood, among the willows. Sometimes talking, but mostly just looking into one another’s eyes… and then laughing and running deeper into the trees, stopping where the rays of Tilion’s craft kissed the earth to cling to one another once more. But amidst clouds of the exhilarating feeling she was experiencing so often in these days, her solid nature spoke. There would be no going back for them now, not wholly. Yet even surrounded by her doubts and fears that fact seemed a silver one. She buried her head deeply in her coverlets and sighed, her heart beating quickly even now, from the kiss she had never given any other.

She was thrust from her reverie by the sound of Mornar’s voice from far along the winding stairs which lead to her chamber. It was joined by another, which she wondered at. She had not changed since yesterday morning, but she leapt up and skillfully bound her hair in silver wire so that it was piled on top of her head, then pulled a large embroidered robe from her trunk. Its long auburn folds fully covered the dew-damp saffron of her gown, and a sash about her waist gave her a regal air despite the pace of her preparations.

She heard departing footsteps, and upon approaching the threshold of the outcropping balcony several flights beneath her own chamber, saw the visitor who awaited her there. She had seen her once before, it was the she-elf who she had seen with Maedhros. She inclined her head- a little sarcastically- thought Rananar, and she noticed the Feanorean pendant she wore around her neck. She had seen Maedhros wearing it often, and it was fashioned as were all the pendants worn by the highest kin of the Feanorean House. “You are the Lady Rananar, I trust?” said the visitor.
“I am.” Rananar replied. “And I would give much to know your business here… and why you come bearing my kinsman’s pendant. You have the look of fate about you, and I desire to speak of whatever matter brings you to my habitation.”
“My name is Lunazra, and I will speak of these things of course,” the elf replied, “though I desire to discuss them with you in a more private place… there are many near below who could hear our speech.”
“Very well,” Rananar replied, now curious, “but I must take leave of you for a space, I have another’s council to seek upon a private matter.”
A smile flickered in the stranger’s eyes, and Rananar wondered if the emotions stirred by her fervent parting with Mornar had been so evident in his eyes. She blushed slightly, but retained her dignity as Lunazra departed, still smiling.

Once in her room, she bathed in cool water, combing out her thick tresses thoroughly. The air was warming with the approaching summer, and Rananar selected a light dress, of a silver color, with rays of red running down its length from the waistline. She plaited her hair into two long braids, which she wrapped around her head like a jet circlet, securing it with a red scarf. She slipped on light shoes and made her way to the Western quarters in search of Maglor, her eyes wandering oft, in case Mornar was on duty near that side of the encampment. She found Maglor in a large windowed enclosure, full of maps. And the guard announced her at the door before Maglor dismissed him.

Maglor looked as if he were about to speak, but he started once his eyes met hers. He looked down abruptly, then searchingly up into her face again. Rananar colored deeply. She had known that he would read the blazing flame of love mirrored in her eyes at once.
“I have not seen you since the day of our arrival,” he said slowly, “but it would seem that much has occurred in our parting.” He walked up to her and tilted her bowed head upwards to meet his questioning gaze. “Or do I read your eyes amiss?” he said gently. Rananar turned away, and sank with a sigh onto the window seat.
“It is of this matter which I must speak to you,” she said, gathering her thoughts then speaking with more of the smooth fluidity which characterized her, “Of course you read me not amiss. It would seem that I was drawn to this place, not out of restlessness as I once thought, but to meet the fate which awaited me.”
“But not a woeful fate?” Maglor queried. Rananar could never have disguised the joyful serenity which these words worked upon her countenance.
“No,” she whispered, smiling. But she collected herself once more, and said with doubt, “At least, I would fain it not be a woeful one. Though I cannot be certain, due to the… the reaction …my decision might cause.”
Maglor looked at her gravely, but his voice was very soft, though its melody lent it resonance, “Then it is truly a final decision you have made? You are not merely full of golden echoes of what might come?”
“Yes,” she replied, quietly but firmly, “it is a final one.”

Maglor sat down across from her, looking as if he were still very deep in thought. “I am full of many feelings,” he said in answer to the unspoken, “but I would first know why you fear your decision will…” he paused, “does it relate to the manner of the person you have given your love to?”
“That is what I fear,” she whispered.
Maglor was still unsure, but with patience continued pressing, “It is not… because of their allegiances-”
“No!” Rananar said, with a loudness that surprised her. But she smiled “That is the very least of my worries in this matter, he is bound to this house with iron honor and- Makalaure, do you really think I could love someone allied against my own soul?” Maglor look significantly relieved and smiled “I didn’t think you could… Rananar, if that is not the case then what else is there to fear?”
Rananar looked down and spoke slowly, “Because… there might be those who would say… that I have chosen someone… outside of my station.”
Maglor frowned in thought, “That is no great concern. At least, it shouldn’t be. Do I know of whom you speak?” he asked.
Rananar looked out the window at the soldiery milling below. “Do you remember Mornar go-Narwethrin?” she whispered.

Maglor let out a long sigh. He now began to understand her worry, “He was orphaned very young, as you were. He learned to bear arms with many of the youth and joined Caranthir’s guard as soon as he was of proper age. His whole life has been in our service… yes, I remember him.” Maglor added, gently, “You are far apart in age, you would have been nigh unto full grown while he was still a kinless child here.”
“I know,” she whispered.
“But do not misunderstand me,” he said, taking her hands encouragingly, “Although… I am torn between joy and sorrow. I do not know which feeling in stronger. It is dangerous to love during war, mellondil and there is a battle coming in which many will lose their lives. Are you willing to risk the pain that such sudden separation would cause?” Rananar looked down at her folded hands, “I am,” she replied sadly.
“But,” said Maglor, smiling a little and shaking his head, “It has been years uncounted since I have seen you glowing with such joy.” He stood up, “Both Curufin and Caranthir are going to be drawn into this sooner of later, however.”
Rananar sighed, “Maybe it will be later rather than sooner. I will be departing the camp for a short space.”

“What?” said Maglor, surprised.
A hint of habitual stubbornness crept into her voice, “As soon as I have permission from Maedhros I am departing for a brief time… it has been too many years since I have hunted beneath the trees.”
Maglor shook his head, “Rananar, I doubt that your desire will be fulfilled. The tensions between our lines and the great Darkness have grown, and our entire camp will be moved within six days time.”
Rananar was shocked. She had sensed the darkness rising and the restlessness of Maedhros, but she had no idea that action would be taken so soon.
“And there is more,” he continued gravely, “Maedhros had sent out messengers by the score to all possible allies. All of our own soldiers are to be sent in advance to join them… some of them—mostly the remnants from Curufin, Celegorm, and Amrod and Amras’ separate camps—to prevent separation and skirmishes.”

Rananar’s mind was a whirl of conflicting emotions and open-ended questions, but through the haze, as she bid a hasty farewell to a concerned Maglor, she knew that she must speak with both Mornar, and the newly met Lunazra.

But Mornar first… she had to find him… learn if he already knew of the changes afoot… learn if he too was to be sent forth to join the other troops… into the blackness of impending war…

[Telumehtar]

"The beginning..." Aerlinn whispered. Where was the beginning? Her life before she left her beloved home, or the events after? Was there truly a beginning to her pain?

"I am of the Laiquendi, the Telerin Elves who now dwell in Ossiriand." She took a breath, shifting herself so she was again lying on Brand. Her left hand found his hair, and tucked a stray bit behind his ear. "I was born in the forests of Ossiriand, shortly after the great journey across the Ered Luin. But I was not...happy, there with my family. It did not suit me to be hidden all the time, for my people camouflage themselves in green." She gestured to her all-green garb with a wave of her hand. "I did not wish to constantly hide myself among my kin; I was curious of other peoples. The city from which we rode this day...Dor Lomin...I have been to that city many times. I always returned after these wanderings...but my family did not approve of my curiosity. They thought that perhaps one day I would be followed, and others would be led to our secret dwelling. They called a council with others of our kin...it was agreed that if I would not stay in the forest then I must leave." Here her voice broke, and the tears began to fall heavily. She could not stop them, and she let the tears run down her cheeks for many moments before continuing.

"I refused to stay, and so I am banished from my home. I have not seen my family since...my mother and father, my brother, Aerion. He is the only thing I miss from that place...the only person who ever made me feel as if my presence was wanted." She took another deep breath, then stared directly into Brand's eyes. "This is my story...the tale of where my pain originated. I have never shared it before, Brand. You are the first to know of my past."
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand gazed back at her, reaching up a hand to finger the loose hair that refused to stay behind her ear. "Thank you for telling me," he said softly. "Now we know more about each other than anyone else knows about us. Aerlinn..." he paused, glancing away, a little unsure. He was quiet for a moment, as if gathering his courage. Finally he looked back at her. "Aerlinn," he tried again. "I know I am a mortal...and...and I don't expect you to give up your life for me...But I just...I just want you to know how much I want you. That I would have you at my side for the rest of my life, being all I ever needed to live."

[Telumehtar]

When Brand spoke, Aerlinn began to think. She had already decided she would give up her immortality for him...or had she? Or was it another mistake? The elf knew that actually going through with this would be much more difficult to do than to say. So was she sure...? She looked at him, this man she loved...and who loved her. No, it is not a mistake, she told herself firmly. This is the first sane decision you have made in years.

"Brand," she said, taking his hand from her hair to clasp it in her own. "I know you do not expect me to...to give up my life, as you put it. And that is why I am going to...because I love you more than anything else in my life." She kissed him lightly on the lips, then rose. "Stay here for a moment," she said, then walked slowly over to the horses. She clasped Erelas' bridle, looking the mare in the eye for a moment. Named for his wife, she thought. Now I understand. She led the mare over to a tree, Nárë following. Aerlinn tethered them both for precaution, for she knew that Nárë was a wanderer; he always returned to her, but she did not want him to leave the clearing.

That done, she returned to Brand, who was now sitting where she left him. She drew him to her, tumbling onto the grass with him. To finish what has been left undone, she thought as she kissed him deeply.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand was so overcome with joy at Aerlinn's words that he couldn't form a response. So he just remained quiet while he watched her tend to the horses. He thought it an odd moment to break their conversation in order to do chores, but when she returned he understood why. He was suddenly lying on his back again, and she was kissing him deeply. Without protest he wrapped his arms around her and returned her kisses passionately.

And for the next hour he held her in his arms while they explored their newfound love. After that blissful hour of passion Brand got up and took a blanket from his pack and spread it over them both, since by now the air was quite chillily. He pulled her close to him again, wrapping his arms around her. He was beginning to feel a little tired, but he would stay awake as long as she did. He kissed her neck tenderly and ran his fingers over her now bare shoulder. Her skin was so smooth. He sighed in deep contentment. "You are so beautiful..." he whispered into her ear.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn shivered as Brand's fingers strayed along her shoulder. She smiled at his words, not knowing how to respond. She closed her eyes for a moment, letting the reality what they had done sink into her mind. "We should start a fire," she murmured drowsily, reluctantly. The warmth and comfort of a fire would be very welcome, as the day was almost completely morphed into night. But she was disinclined to leave the Brand's reassuring embrace.

Looking over her shoulder she could see Nárë dozing, head down, mane obscuring his loyal face. Erelas stood as if she were uneasy, pawing the ground with her hoof every now and then. They were so beautiful, those horses, Aerlinn thought sleepily. She wrapped her arms around Brand and closed her eyes, and they held each other in the gathering darkness.

((Wil, if your next post could have Brand waking up before Aerlinn, or after she falls asleep, that would be cool :p If not, it's still cool lol)
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand kissed Aerlinn's neck tenderly a few more times. He loved the feel of her against him, the warmth of her body. He could just stay here for ever, letting the rest of the world continue on around them, but they would remain in this little bubble of peace and happiness. He knew it couldn't be so, but at least for this one night it could be.

He was about to announce that he was going to get up to light the fire when he realized that Aerlinn had fallen asleep. He smiled and kissed her shoulder twice. Then he pulled the blanket up around her better and pulled her closer to him. Then he laid there for a while, his nose nearly touching hers as he gazed into her face. The smoothness of her skin, the smell of her hair...it was all intoxicating to him, bringing him to familiar hights he had not experienced in a long time. He briefly wondered if she had experienced it before. Had she ever been with anyone else? Of course, she must have, he thought to himself. She was an elf after all, she had already lived several lifetimes of men. But the thought still made him a little jealous, knowing that she could have been someone else's lover once, that he was not the first to hold her in his arms.

He quickly banished that train of thought. She was in his arms now, and that was all that mattered. And knowing that he would be the last one she would ever lay with also made it feel better. He smiled and kissed the tip of her nose. Then he closed his eyes, feeling very drowsy. In minutes he was fast asleep.

((Hey Telu, I didn't know exactly waht you meant, but I hope this is OK. I wasn't feeling creative enough to carry it into the next morning. So you can have Aerlinn wake first))

[Telumehtar]

((Wil, that's exactly what I meant!! Having her asleep and him thinking about stuff...that gives me a lot to work with :grin: ))
~Telu :flamer:

[Melathwen]

'Up!' Amras' shoulder was roughly shaken, and he sat up groggily, trying to push the thing that was on him off him. He shook his head, and felt his braids swing. What was he doing? As he opened his eyes slowly, he saw that it wasn't even light yet and the only illumination came from a faint candle burning in his window. So what was the heavy weight on top of him?

'Wha-' he asked, shoving at the immovable mass, which suddenly slid off, and Amras could rise properly. He shoved his covers back and stood, his nighttunic falling down to his knees and one hand sleepily rubbing at his eyes. He looked down at the heap on the floor, and began to laugh. Amrod, whose bulk it was that had been weighing him down, was on the floor in a comic, collapsed heap that Amras found hilarious, even at this ungodly hour. At his soft, gentle laughter, Amrod leapt up and pulled Amras off the bed.

'Get dressed! We're leaving today!' he said, shoving his brother in the direction of his carefully laid out clothes - it had not been Amras that laid them out - and leaving the still-sleepy elf to dress himself. Amrod himself had been up for more than an hour, overseeing the last of the preparations. He had assumed Amras was up, too, but obviously he had not been. Well, they could still leave on schedule if his twin was quick but, knowing Amras, he wouldn't be. Sighing, Amrod went to check on their horses. All was in order, the servants were ready to move on to the next house and the rooms had been appropriately closed for the time the twins would be away.

Satisfied that all was ready, Amrod went back to discover that his brother had only got as far as his leggings. Sighing deeply and exasperatedly, Amrod waded over to Amras and pulled shirt and tunic over his brother's head. At least decently covered if not properly dressed, Amrod pushed Amras before him out of the door and then shovelled some breakfast into him at one end of the long dining room. Once that was done, they were ready to leave.

'Do you think we should check on Cerridwen?' Amras asked, leaving the dining hall behind his brother, having woken up properly as food was put into his mouth. He did not feel shame at his brother's treatment of him, for he could remember plenty of times when he had done the same for Amrod. Particularly after he had been drinking.

'What? At this time? She'll still be in bed, Amras!' Amrod was shocked at the very idea. It was improper to call on a lady, even in his own house, before she would be up and decently dressed. And besides, they had made provision for her. She had clothes, a horse, food and the direction the twins would be traveling in if she wished to follow them, or permission to either follow the servant and the rest of the house or take her horse wherever she willed if she didn't.

'You're right,' Amras said, and followed his brother out to the stables. In minutes, they were mounted, their packs slung across their horses' withers and their weapons on their backs. With no further talk they rode swiftly out of the gate, the still-dark morning swiftly swallowing their dark-clad forms. In no more than a whisper of wind and the sound of soft hoof falls, they were gone.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn awoke minutes before sunrise; the mountains were illuminated slightly with the sun that was rising so slowly behind them. Rolling onto her side she saw Brand was still asleep. He looked so peaceful she dared not wake him. Instead she kissed him lightly on the forehead and rose, tucking the blanket around him as she stood. She felt very exposed, undressed in the forest like this. She turned to where her clothes were in a small heap a few feet away, bending to retrieve them. As she slipped her shirt over her head she could feel tiny indentations on her back, from the grass on which they had slept. She dressed quickly, then walked slowly over to the horses.

Nárë was already wake; it was an almost unnatural talent of his to awaken the moment she did. She patted his neck, running her hand along his tangled mane. She stopped to work at a knot in the hair, but he tossed his head in protest. "Very well," she said to him with a smile. Turning to Erelas she saw the mare had also woken up, blinking sleepily. She pulled a bit of grain for them out of her saddlebags, offering it to them in outstretched palms. At first she was confused when they did not take the food, then noticed that the grass around the two horses was bitten down. "Not hungry, eh?" she asked, patting them both gently.

She was in the mood for a hot meal, so she unstrapped her bow from her saddle, along with her quiver. Glancing over at Brand, a smile immediately came to her lips. Aerlinn strode out of the clearing quietly, into the forest. She moved silently, like a cat, bow ready in hand. Something rustled in the brush nearby; she turned swiftly, alert. It was a rabbit, her sharp eyes saw, crouching in the grass. With one fluid motion she drew an arrow from her quiver and fitted it to the bow; then shot. The rabbit slumped to the ground immediately, and she walked over to pick it up. "May your spirit find peace," she murmured, something she had said after every kill she had ever made. It was a reflex now, those words, after so many years of hunting for food. Then she turned to a nearby tree, and began to strip a few small branches.

When she returned to the camp the sun had risen to the top of the moutains. She gazed at them for a second, the bright light blinding her as it glared its pinkish yellow. At the middle of the clearing she stooped, laying down the rabbit and her bit of wood. A flint was in her pack; she retrieved it silently and within minutes had a small blaze going. Enough to cook a rabbit, anyway. She propped the creature expertly on a stick over the orange flames, and sat, waiting for Brand and for breakfast.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

A little while later Brand slowly came awake. The first thing he noticed was that he was terribly stiff and a rock or something was digging into his back. The next thing he noticed was he was terribly chilly. He had but one thin blanket over him and he was not wearing anything else under it. And that reminded him finally of where he was and who he was with. But where was she?

He opened his eyes and looked around. There she was. Sitting near a fire, over which a rabbit was slowly roasting. He smiled slightly and, instead of announcing himself, he just laid there and watched her for a while, drinking in the sight of her. She was so beautiful...the most beautiful thing he had ever seen...and she was his...

"I wake to see that the dream is still a reality..." he said softly, still gazing at her.

[Telumehtar]

At Brand's soft whisper Aerlinn started, jerked out of her thoughts. She turned and stood, walking over to him slowly. She laid down beside him again, wriggling under the blanket. "Melwa arin," she whispered to him, wrapping her arms about his waist. He was cold under the thin blanket, she could feel the chill on his skin. "You are cold," she said, unable to get enough of the feeling of them together there, embracing, the feel of his strong body beside her. She kissed his cheek, then rose, pulling him to his feet and handing him his clothes.

The elf just watched him for a moment, simply standing, blinking, breathing. He was so fine, so amazing; just his glance lured her to him. Her thoughts wandered for a moment....she wondered. When she had embraced him just now, had he noticed the change in her? Now she was truly his: she was weaker, her body weary even after a full night's rest. And when she had put her arms around his waist....her hands were cold.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand quickly dressed, very aware of the fact that she watched his every move, but for some reason that did not bother him. He sat down to pull on his boots, then he looked up at her and smiled. He reached up and pulled her down to him, enfolding her in his embrace and kissing her neck softly, then he just held her, her back up against his chest and his chin resting on her shoulder. He sighed in contentment.

"Are you ready for more hard traveling today?" he asked.

[Hobbit]

While Rananar went to visit her kinsman Maglor in the western part of the Feanorean encampment, Mornar led a patrol in the east, on the outskirts of Caranthir’s section of the camp. Serving as lieutenant third grade, the highest possible rank a person his age could get as member of lord Caranthir’s household, he led a small band of heavily armed soldiers back and forth between the open, trampled fields, which were covered by tents from the Feanorean army and the western bank of the river Sirion, for about three hours straight. All that time, nothing strange happened and perhaps that was the strangest of all. Normally, Mornar’s sharp sight and sound hearing could detect a great number of little animals and forest wildlife while patrolling, but during that long afternoon, everything was silent and still.

Later, the silence had seemed appropriate before the hectic and dark period that would shortly follow. But the thought that the lifelessness around the encampment might have been omen never crossed Mornar’s mind that day, as he led his troop through the bushes to the riverside and back, for many, many times.

But then again, very few thoughts had crossed his mind altogether that day, for his thoughts had been with Rananar constantly. He remembered their vows of love, thought of their shared hopes and fantasies, which, unwilling, also brought his fears and doubts back to his mind. But they reminded him of his eternal promise to Rananar and thus completed the endless circle in his mind, which made him think the same thoughts over and over again.

The only thing that disturbed his chain of thoughts every now and then, was the sight of the river Sirion, glittering like a stream of liquid silver in the pale sunlight. Mornar had never liked rivers. Being raised near the dark lake Helevorn, he had grown so accustomed to water being calm and black, that flowing rivers and clear streams always seemed very strange to him. He was quick to distrust them. Hidden beneath the bright water surface lay dangers dark and menacing, he was certain of that.
But perhaps an even more important reason for his dislike of rivers is that rivers ever reminded him of the ocean, where all rivers eventually end. And the ocean reminded him of his loneliness and exile. It reminded him of that far land, carried upon great, white shores, where his father and mother were born and where he would have been born too, if the trees hadn’t been darkened.

He wanted to go there, to Valinor, the land of bliss and beauty, where he could live free of sorrow and pain. But he could not. Non of his people were allowed to go back to the West and the cruel sea would make sure that they will never get the chance.

But every time Mornar ordered his guards to turn around again and to march back to the encampment, his thoughts were quickly turned back towards the woman he loves dearest of all: Rananar. And with that, he started thinking in the same, endless triangle as before. The river and Valinor are soon forgotten and the sea was also banned from his mind, despite that Rananar’s deep, beautiful eyes resembled the sea very much. But the sea in Rananar’s eyes was not really much alike the one beyond the Bay of Balar, for as far as Mornar was concerned. Rananar’s sea had depths filled with emotion, love and life, while the depths of the real ocean contained nothing but coldness and death.

At the end of his shift as patrol leader, Mornar quickly dismissed his group of soldiers and decided to return to the citadel, to wait for the return of Rananar. At the citadel, Lunazra was also waiting for Rananar. For as far as Mornar knew, she had come to deliver a message to her. As they waited together for the arrival of Mornar’s beloved, he had a little chat with Lunazra.
It was a light and pleasant conversation. Lunazra knew Mornar had strong feeling for Rananar, she had noticed it instantly during their first meeting, but she had decided to let all her suspicions and questions rest. This comforted Mornar, who, on his part, asked no questions about the purpose of her coming to the encampment. He also asked nothing about the pendant she wore, which brought vague memories to his mind.

They were only talking for a few minutes when the big, wooden door opened and Rananar entered the room. She looked stunningly in her light, silver dress, which turned a bit reddish when the candlelight, that illuminated the citadel, fell upon it. She paced towards Mornar with quick, small steps and if it wasn’t for the sound of shoes lightly touching the stone floor, Mornar would have thought she was flying towards him. He started smiling at her and she smiled back at him, though her smile was one of sadness and worry rather than happiness. Many emotions could be read from her face but Mornar saw mostly determination.
They cared no longer for the secrecy of their romance, as they openly embraced each other before the watchful eyes of Luna. Rananar gave her a small look and Lunazra understood.

“I’ll wait for you in the other room while you speak with Mornar go-Narwethrin, for I do not doubt you have many important things to discuss.” She said softly, with a faint, amused grin. Then she withdrew quietly to another chamber. As soon as she closed the door behind her, Rananar told Mornar all she had heard from Maglor. She spoke soft and swift. And as she emptied her heart, Mornar suddenly felt his own heart getting a lot heavier.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn sighed softly, resting her cheek on the side of his head. She kissed his ear lightly, his hair tickling her face. "Yes," she said reluctantly. Her disinclination was not because she did not wish to ride; she simply didn't want this moment to end. The last day had been so amazing...but leaving the cozy clearing wasn't the end of this, she told herself. No...this is only the beginning. She grinned.

But he hadn't noticed the difference in her, and she did not know whether she was grateful for that or not. When she had awakened that morning she had recognized it within herself, that she no longer had the Life of her people...of the Eldar. Had Luthien felt this way, when she also lost her immortality because of her loyalty to Beren? Aerlinn wondered. Had it been such a sudden change? She knew of the two of them, knew the story well, but in these times, who did not? But she had not known how difficult it was. Would Brand see this? Would he notice, or would she have to tell him? Such simple words. A sentence, maybe two, and yet she could not think of how to say them. So for now, she would wait.

"Come and eat," she said, her voice a bit choked with her sudden nervousness. She came to her feet slowly, taking Brand by his hand to lead him over to the fire. The rabbit was finished; its delicious aroma filled the air. And inside, her heart beat as fast as the rabbit's had done.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand looked up and smiled when he saw what she had prepared. "Smells wonderful," he said, sniffing the air. Then he rubbed her hand he was holding and looked at her. "Are you cold?" he asked. But before she had a chance to answer he took up a blanket and put it around her shoulders. Then he sat her down and knelt before her, holding her hands in his and rubbing them slightly. He seemed to study her for a long time. And after a moment his face creased slightly, as if he was not understanding something all the way. His hand strayed to her cheek and he stroked it gently with his thumb. There was something different about her...but he couldn't quite place what it was.

"Are you alright?" he asked, worry showing on his face.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn sighed, one tiny tear forming in each eye, though she refused to weep any more. She had done enough of that to last her for a long time. But he was forcing her to tell him now, and she could not form the words. It was not as if she were ashamed or angry, but it was such a vast change she could hardly comprehend it. With all that had happened in the last few days she could not face this....her mortality. She wished to push it out of her mind, to let it exist without ever having to think about it, but now she could not.

"I am all right," the elf maiden said slowly, closing her eyes for a moment, thinking. When she opened them she saw the obvious concern in Brand's face. "Do not worry, my love. I am fine...but I am changed." She took a deep breath, looking behind him at a small bird that was flitting around the tiny pool of water. As it took wing, she glanced back at the man before her. "Do you feel this?" She held her hand up to his face, laying the palm of her hand on his cheek. "When I said I would surrender the eternal life of my kin, I meant it. Now I am like you, Brand. I am also mortal."

She pulled him to her in joy, the tears forcing themselves out of her eyes and down her cheeks. She embraced him happily, truly sure for the first time that she had made the right choice.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand just let her embrace him, for he could not move nor speak. He just stared at the horses under the tree a short distance away. He had known that she would be giving up her immortality for him. But until that moment he hadn't realized what that actually meant.

Finally he put his arms around her. She seemed truly happy, and so he was happy for her. He held her close and kissed her hair, not saying anything, for nothing need be said. He was just glad he had her there in his arms, and he knew that she would always be there, from now on, for as long as they both lived.

"I love you so much," he whispered in her ear, still holding her tight.

[Telumehtar]

"I love you as well, Brand..." Aerlinn replied, resting her head on his shoulder and nuzzling his neck. "And now you know how much." She smiled up into his eyes, recognizing the happiness in his face, for it was mirrored in her own.

Nárë whinnied behind them, and Aerlinn was startled. She let go of Brand, but took his hand and led him over to their horses. Nárë was snorting and pawing the ground with his hoof, something he did frequently, but she could not understand the look in the stallion's dark eyes. "What is it, mellon nin?" she said softly, patting his neck with her free hand. Erelas also seemed unnerved, but less so that the stallion. Brand stroked the mare's mane, still silent. Then Aerlinn's sharp ears heard a sound, and she froze. The soft sounds of footsteps were now unmistakable; they were close. She had always been antisocial, with the exception of Brand she did not want to meet anyone, especially now.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand was lost in his thoughts and didn't seem to notice the odd behaviour of the horses. But when he glanced at Aerlinn he could see her looking in the direction of the trees, listening. Brand listened too, and finally he heard the sound of footsteps. He took Aerlinn's hand in his, then with his other hand he drew his sword from the sheath attached to Erelas' saddle. He led Aerlinn back to the fire, and they both sat down, waiting, but ready for whatever was coming. Brand prayed fervently that it was not an enemy.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn sat beside Brand by the fire, so close her knees nearly touched his. She drew one of her knives from her boot, not noticing Brand's brief look of surprise. She folded it into her palm, hiding the knife from view. The steps they heard were close, mere feet away from the clearing. The steps of an elf, Aerlinn thought. Too soft and soundless for a Man. She sat waiting, knife ready, her heart beating in anxiousness.

But she was not prepared for what stepped out of the trees, into the clearing. It was indeed an elf, tall with black hair and piercing green eyes. Her black hair and green eyes. "Aerion," she breathed. She stood quickly, tucking her dagger back into her boot without thinking. "Aerion? Can it truly be...?" She strode up to him, stopping before him, breathless.

"Aerlinn? Oh, Aerlinn, it is you! I cannot believe it..." Her brother's face was shocked, but a grin broke out over it...the same grin she had seen a thousand times before. He clutched her to him immediately, speaking in fast Sindarin. "Glassen an achened le, muinthel nin. It is my joy to see you again, my sister." He released her from their tight embrace, then looked over her shoulder and his brows furrowed. Brand had slipped from Aerlinn's mind until that moment, she saw the slight confusion in his face. "Brand!" she cried. "This is my muindor, my brother." She grabbed Aerion's hand and took a step, but was pulled back when her brother stayed rooted in place. His face was cloudy. He knew, she thought. He could tell. Then he looked down at their clasped hands, and she sighed.

"Aerlinn...your hands! They're--" he began, then stopped as Brand stood. "Yes, Aerion." she whispered, then left him and walked over to Brand. She looped her arm about the Man's waist and led him to her brother. She stood between them, with the only two people in the world that she loved.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand had been very surprised to see who the footsteps belonged to. But he didn't like the look that the other elf gave him. Disapproval it seemed to be. Brand gave Aerlinn's brother a defiant stare as he pulled Aerlinn close to him. Brand kissed the top of Aerlinn's had as she led him closer to her brother. Brand bowed slightly in respect to the other elf, but the defiant look didn't leave his eyes.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn noticed the temerity in Brand's eyes; his look was almost...rebellious. But she wasn't fond of the look Aerion had given him, either...the elf was predicting an interesting conversation--to say the least. This is not good, she told herself, then took a breath.

"Aerion, this is Brand. Brand, this is my brother....I've told you a bit about him." she glanced at her brother, hoping to see some sign of happiness in his face. But the elf's stare was icy, and he said nothing. Aerlinn's arm was still around Brand's waist, and she toyed with the cloth of the back of his shirt nervously. She fidgeted in the awkward silence. She was growing annoyed with the other elf's attitude. He knew her better than anyone, and he should have been able to tell how she felt.

"Aerion." she said softly. "Im baur le an henia... I need you to understand. I love him. We're leaving this place...our destination is not yet known to us, however." She smiled feebly.

"Aerlinn..." Aerion whispered. He stared at the two before him in surprise, trying to comprehend this. Even before her exile his sister had allowed herself few emotions, and now...this. The two stood close together, waiting for his response, his reaction. He took a long look at his sister, trying so hard to see. The man looked defiant and wary, but his sister seemed...happy. Even though she wore a frowning worried look, there was a light in her eyes he had not seen since they were children.

"I cannot say I am happy at this choice of yours, sister," he said, looking into Brand's face. He shifted his gaze to her. "But I can see your happiness...and that is the most important thing." He smiled at them finally, though he was still confused...
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand continued to eye the male elf suspiciously the whole time Aerlinn was talking with him. Brand had found his happiness and seemed to be alive again ever since meeting Aerlinn. But it was clear now that he was not fully cured as far as the rest of the word was concerned. His face had assumed the same hard, cold mask that he had from the beginning, and he didn't smile, even when Aerion finally smiled at him.

He kept his arm around Aerlinn's waist protectively, not willing to let her go. He looked coolly at the other elf. "Would you care to join us?" he finally said. "We were just about to eat our morning meal." His voice was a monotone and there was no hint of friendly welcome at all.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel did not feel well...she realised it after a whole day's ride. She was out of the forbidding mountains now, approaching-at long last- the borders of the hidden kingdom of Doriath, but she felt suddenly weak...She was a little dizzy, and cold sweat made her shiver. "I must be more tird than I thought", she told herself and then she remembered...her wound. She dismounted, a few miles away from Tol Sirion and checked her leg...It was swollen and it had an unwholesome purplish colour all around it. "THe warg's teeth were poisoned", she thought dismally, as she resumed her journey. There was nothing she could do; all she could hope for was to get to Doriath before her stenght failed; there she would find the help she needed...

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn sighed at the coldness of the two. She hoped Aerion would accept Brand's invitation, which he had offered in an obviously forced attempt to humor her. Aerion was her brother, after all, and he hadn't exactly seemed ecstatic to see Brand...so she understood the man's cold attitude.

Meanwhile Aerion was silently cursing himself. He was overjoyed to have run into his sister; he had not seen her in so long. But the man...she claimed to love him, and her eyes were not lying. But he seemed so harsh, so unfeeling. But you didn't exactly warm up to him immediately, now did you? he told himself bitterly.

"I would be glad to," he said with a minute, almost invisible, smile. "I thank you." He bowed his head slightly, awkwardly.

Aerlinn smiled widely at him in gratitude. She turned, still with Brand at her side. As Aerion walked over to the horses Aerlinn hugged Brand tightly, burying her face in his chest. "Thank you," she whispered. "He is simply protective...he watches out for me. He will grow to see in you what I do, and perhaps you will be able to do the same." With a kiss she left him and walked over to Aerion's side. He was stroking Nárë's nose thoughtfully. "I have not seen this horse in years...he is such a loyal creature. When last I saw him, he was but a colt, wild from the plains."

"Yes," she said simply. "Come, brother. Come eat with us, and please...try to be understanding. Both of you have seen much pain; both of you have hardened. But try, Aerion." She left him as well, and went to tend the fire.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand looked at Aerlinn when she returned the fire. His expression was impassive, not showing what he truly felt. He was hoping that the other elf would leave soon after they ate their meal, and that he wasn't expecting to go along with them on their journey. Brand wanted to be alone with his love, and not have to share their camp with anyone else.

Brand put his arms around Aerlinn and held her tightly against him. "How long will he be staying here?" he asked against the side of her neck, his breath tickling the short hairs that grew there.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn shivered at the tickle of Brand's lips to her neck. "I know not," she replied. She glanced at the other elf, who was still patting her stallion's nose. Aerion looked over at Erelas, and Aerlinn felt Brand tense. He and Aerion were both being so...strange. But then again, she had not expected them to be fond of each other, especially since they were all three thrust into this odd setting. "He will not wish to stay with us," she said hurriedly. "He is returning to our home."

Aerion walked slowly over to the two, not wanting to interrupt what was obviously a tender moment. Or appeared to be, anyway; neither of them looked overjoyed at his presence. In any other situation, both elves would have already been deep in conversation, but this...this was simply too awkward. He sat on the opposite side of the fire, gazing into the flames silently.

Meanwhile Aerlinn had tired of being the go-between in this situation; she looked at her brother intently and waited for one of them to make the next move. Hopefully she would not have to...
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand was tired of this already. He figured he would have to say something to Aerlinn's brother. He could see the disappointment in her eyes, her wishful thinking that the two men could get along. And it was apparent to Brand that Aerlinn's brother did not trust him. Finally he cleared his throat to speak.

"Aerion...I...I do not wish to be at odds with you. You do not trust me, I can see that. But I love your sister. She is my life now, and has chosen to be mine. Nothing can change that now...nothing. If we are doomed to be brothers, then I would wish for peace, if not fellowship between us."

He looked at the elf expectantly, hoping all his words were not in vain. He squeezed Aerlinn's hand, but didn't take his intense gaze away from Aerion's.

[Telumehtar]

Aerion stared hard at the Man, not wanting to believe him. So Brand could see the elf's distrust, he had not tried to hide it, so what difference was it? But then he saw Aerlinn's wistful face, and he softened. The man was just trying to make his sister happy, and he had not be sure to keep his protectiveness from making him seem cruel. His light green eyes came to rest on Brand's grey ones once more.

"I am sorry if I seemed cold," he said, swallowing his pride. "I do not wish to seem distrustful; I am simply a brother who can often be too protective of his sister." He smiled thinly. He continued in a low voice that was naught but a whisper, his gaze flicking back and forth between the two before him. "It has been so long since I have seen my sister smile. You are the cause of this, and I am grateful. Thank you, Brand." He exhaled deeply, lowering his eyes.

Aerlinn's face burst into another smile, one that lit up her eyes. "Thank you, both of you," she whispered, squeezing Brand's hand in reply. Things were looking better, if not wonderful; this was a start. She stood, letting go of Brand's hand reluctantly.

She glanced at the rabbit, which was now quite done and would have to be taken off the spit soon. But to avoid burning her hands on the steaming hot creature, she walked quickly over to her saddlebags, pulling a water flask from one of them and filling it at the tiny pool. She doused the fire. "This needs a moment to cool..." she said to the two men. "But now there are three of us--" she smiled at her beloved brother. "Should I go fetch another?" She looked at the two, knowing that this could be a bad suggestion. If she did, the two of them alone would be even more awkward than before.

Aerion also realized this, for he stood quickly. "Worry not, sister. I shall be back shortly." He kissed Aerlinn swiftly on the cheek, patted the bow strapped to his back, and strode off into the forest. Aerlinn nodded at his retreating form, sitting back down to take a moment to express her gratitude to her love. But she could find no words, so she simply put her arms around him and closed her eyes, waiting for Aerion to return.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand put his arms around Aerlinn tightly, glad that they were finally alone, for a while at least. He kissed the top of her head, then rested his cheek against hers. It felt so good to just hold her!

"I'm trying," he said softly. "I hope you can forgive my cold manner towards your brother, this isn't easy for me...but I will do anything for you, Aerlinn...anything." He squeezed her tighter, hiding his face in her hair.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn nestled comfortably into Brand's arms, breathing in the still-cold morning air. The sun shone down on the clearing, making the grass on which they sat warm. "Of course I forgive you....I can not expect you two to become friends immediately, if you ever do." Here she laughed, and the sound echoed through the clearing she had come to think of as their own. "And I would do anything for you as well..." As you have seen, she thought. Her gaze fell on the blackened place where their tiny fire had cooked the rabbit which was still filling the air with its enticing aroma. "I shouldn't have put it out," she laughed, "for we shall have to start another now."

Aerion was still in the forest a few minutes later, thinking as he walked slowly, only half-alert. He felt better since he had talked to Brand for a bit. Something stirred; it was thankfully another rabbit. With amazing speed he fitted an arrow to his bow and shot the creature, then stooped to pick it up. He thought of Aerlinn, of the words she spoke after every shot with her bow, words she had undoubtedly spoken to the one she had killed. Kill in hand, he walked back towards the small camp.
~Telu :flamer:

[Ceri Bloom]

“Umph!” a noise like a sack hitting a floor, was in fact Cerridwen rolling off of her bed onto the soft rug lying next to it, and exclaiming with surprise. She had been woken with a start by an appalling dream. Shaking, she sat up with a gauze sheet trapping her arms, and opened her eyes. Light streamed in through the apparent freshly opened shutters, and she struggled to protect her eyes, her arms having been imprisoned. If anyone had walked in on Cerridwen at that moment, they would have keeled over laughing at the comical scene of her trying to free her arms with her eyes closed, and stand up at the same time. Its too early Cerridwen thought, and giving in to the covers, crawled back onto her bed and fell asleep again.

When she woke, she found the room was shaded, and the light was not so harsh to look upon. It must be nearly midday Cerridwen thought, gently peeling back the covers that had been untangled whilst she slept to go and look out onto the scene beyond her window frame. She was correct, the light intensity had lessened in her room due to the midday position of the sun, and Cerridwen smiled.

Deciding she was hungry, Cerridwen slowly padded down to the kitchen in her modest underclothes. On the way there she didn’t meet a soul. That’s odd. She pondered on this until she got to the kitchen, where she forgot her troubles at the selection of food that would satisfy her hunger pangs.

Carrying two rolls and some natural jam in a cloth, and eating a third roll, Cerridwen decided to check on Faervelui. On arriving at the door she was directed to by the only person she had seen that day, Cerridwen stood outside and finished her mouthful of roll, listening carefully. Her door was shut, and there were no sounds coming from within. She must be still asleep, poor thing. I wonder what brought her here? Speculations that became more far fetched and had Cerridwen clutching her sides, carried her to her room. Depositing her food on the dressing table, she looked on in wonder at the beautiful envelope on the top, that was being sat on by her strange furry friend.
Moving him, she picked up the envelope, and sat cross-legged on the bed. Turning it over, she took in the blood red seal holding the flap to the main body. Carefully ripping the seal she took out the parchment and gasped at the ornate writing. Someone had taken great care in writing this letter, so she handled it carefully. It read :

Dear Cerridwen,

I noticed that you weren't at the evening meal, and I could not help but wonder what had befallen to keep you from it. I looked for you after it had finished, but I could not find you. I don't know where you were, but I had something important to tell you. I am leaving, very early tomorrow morning. Indeed, by the time you read this I have probably already left. I wish very much that we can continue our acquaintance, for I do not wish it to end, but I will not be anywhere that you can contact me for several weeks; I have grown impatient with living in a house and will live in the wilds for a time.

I very much hope that you feel the same way that I do, and to that end, I have ordered a servant to pack you some provisions and clothes, and to make sure that a horse is available, should you wish to follow me. You will not meet with any resistance when you try to leave, and your passage will be eased by any who can. My own departure cannot be delayed, or I would ask you to come with me myself, and I will surely not see you in the morning. I intend to head northeast, and I will be riding hard. I hope that you choose to come and find me, and that I may see you soon even if you do not.

Amras

Cerridwen let out a slow breath that she hadn’t realised she’d been holding. He still wants to know me! She thought joyously! She clutched the note to her breast and danced around her room giggling in an almost manic manner.

Re-reading the note once she had calmed down, she wondered where her packs would be. Now that her head had cleared itself of the rush she had felt when she read the friendship in the letter, she decided she needed to make her herself look decent if she was to follow Amras.

On returning from her luxurious bath, she had never smelled so sweet. The oils she had used were exotic, aromatic and went straight to her head. Heading to the wardrobe, she opened it to have 2 large saddle packs spill out, and a neatly pressed riding outfit on the middle shelf. He thinks of everything, she smiled to herself.

Donning the clothes, and placing the packs on her rustled bed, she went to find Faervelui.

[Telumehtar]

When he arrived back at the small clearing, Aerion came upon his sister and Brand sitting together. She was enfolded in his arms, smiling, the bright sun illuminating her face. She looked so happy, and it was this man who had made her so. Aerion felt ashamed for being so cold to him. But that didn't mean the elf trusted him completely.

Aerlinn kissed Brand's cheek lightly, speaking softly to him. She then looked up and saw her brother, who immediately lowered his eyes. It was a bit awkward to see her and Brand so...together. Embracing, kissing...it was too new to him. When Aerlinn stood and took the rabbit from her brother's hand, their eyes met. She put the creature on the spit and removed the other one.

"Brand, do you have any plates in your saddlebags? Or something similar?" she asked, holding the still-hot rabbit in her hands. She glanced at Aerion, who was already working with a flint to start another fire.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand nodded and stood up. He went to his saddlebags, then returned a moment later carrying two plates and a bowel. "I packed only enough for two," he said softly. "I was not expecting us to have company. Aerion, I hope you don't mind using a bowel instead." He set the things down on a log near the fire, then took the cooked rabbit from Aerlinn. "I'll carve it," he said in a near whisper, taking out his knife.

[Telumehtar]

"A bowl is fine...thank you," Aerion replied, inclining his head slightly in thanks.

"Thank you," Aerlinn murmured to Brand as she handed him the rabbit. Her eye caught her brother's briefly. "Havo dad annin, Aerion. Annan le ú-gennin." Aerion complied, sitting with his sister. He gave her a quick one-armed hug, then glanced at the fire. There had been enough sticks and charred branches left for him to re-start the fire, and its warmth was comfortable. His thoughts wandered as they waited.

Meanwhile Aerlinn watched Brand with a loving eye. She watched him closely though, trying to determine what caused his softness of voice. His words were so quiet even her sharp ears could barely catch them, and the sound was sad. Anor valthen, she thought. Togo laugas lin nestad enin gûr hen...Golden sun, may your warmth bring healing to this heart. She bowed her head in a sudden moment of sadness.
~Telu :flamer:

[Melathwen]

Amrod and Amras, alone among the trees, raced each other, watching with joy as the forest slowly filled with light. Stopping for only a short time, they ate a light breakfast and journeyed on once more. The forest around them was peaceful; birds calls flitted between the trees and small scufflings alerted the brothers to the silent inhabitants of the forest. As the sun rose higher, shafts of its light pierced the roof of green leaves, creating golden beams reaching for the forest floor.

The twins were silent as they rode, now at a more leisurely pace. In the mad gallop in the pre-dawn, the horses had expended much of their energy and would not be able to go far at any speed today. The twins didn't mind. They had only themselves to please, as their whole court was packed and on its way to their next house, but the twins would ensure they took weeks to reach it. They had planned a largely circuitous route, traveling through some of the more beautiful areas of their country and the countryside surrounding it. They didn't plan on having any company, other than each others', for some weeks. However, if Cerridwen decided to join them, they certainly wouldn't complain.

[Wilwarin]

Brand busied himself with carving the rabbit, placing the meat onto the plates and in the bowel. He was lost in his thoughts and didn't speak while he worked. When he was finally done he stood and handed a plate to Aerlinn, and the bowel to her brother. Then he took his own plate and sat down on the opposite side of the fire from the two elves. He felt very awkward suddenly. He was in the presence of two very aged beings, more noble and beautiful than he could ever hope to be. What was there about him that would make them wish to share his company? And especially, why would one of them give up her life for him, a mortal? Why would she do that? How could she love him that much?

He looked up at her for a moment and she caught his eye. He couldn't help but offer a slight smile. She made him so happy. But he also couldn't help feeling a little left out. Here he was, sitting over here by himself. And she was over there with him. Of course, he was her brother and they had not seen each other for a long time. Brand could understand that—or at least, he tried to. But he could not help feeling a little jealous. He wanted her all to himself.

[Telumehtar]

As Brand carved the rabbit Aerlinn and Aerion spoke quietly in their language, chatting about life since last they had met. Aerion had been in the most recent battle, but wouldn't speak of it; it caused him too much pain. She glanced over at Brand during a lull in their quiet conversation, just as he finished with their meal. He handed Aerlinn a plate, and a bowl to Aerion, and sat across from them. He seemed melancholy, she thought, and a bit pensive. As he smiled at her biefly she could see that he was indeed gloomy, as she had thought. Seeing his face this way made her feel sad as well.

Aerlinn touched Aerion's arm for a moment, then scooted over a bit so she was sitting next to Brand. With Aerion there she could hardly ask him outright what was bothering him, but she tried to let him know she was there. Aerion observed all this silently, understanding. After a few awkwardly wordless moments the other rabbit was sizzling on the spit, and the elf stood and removed it from the spit. It was hot and burned his hands a bit, but he quickly set it in the bowl Brand had offered him. He took a dagger identical to his sister's out of the tiny sheath built in his boot. He began to cut it quickly, his hands moving deftly with the weapon. As he worked, his thoughts ran...

Should I leave now? he wondered. He was immensely happy to see his sister, but she and Brand were on their way to some destination. They would not want him to accompany them, and neither did he. The company would be nice, but the awkwardness would overrule it by far. Finished with the creature, he doled out the rest of their meal then sat again. Aerlinn had taken Brand's hand and had laid her head on his shoulder for a moment. She removed it as she began to eat, then remembered the question she had forgotten to ask her brother until that moment.

"Aerion, have you--" she swallowed then continued, refusing to meet her brother's eye. "Have you been home since-?"

He swung his head up sharply, not expecting the sudden query. "Yes, Aerlinn," he said softly. "I have. I was told..." he stopped, knowing this was not the correct time or place to be having this conversation. His voice was gentle, for he knew what he was to reveal was unwanted. "I was told by our Naneth, our mother, to give you a message if I should see you, for she knows we lost contact for a few years. She asked me to tell you...she and our Adar want you to come back." There, he had said it. He closed his eyes, knowing what his sister's reaction would be.

Aerlinn was shocked at this unexpected bit of information. Her clear green eyes widened, then her vision was blurred with sudden tears. Her head was spinning, she couldn't think. Why, after all these years--? She closed her eyes, trying to concentrate, but her head was reeling.
~Telu :flamer:

[Ceri Bloom]

“Faerv? Are you here?” Cerridwen used her friends old nickname to trick her into coming out. She stood in the centre of the room that Faervelui has been placed in. She had been directed here by one of the few remaining house maids, and now, looking around Cerridwen smiled. This was exactly what her friend was used to. I hope she's alright though. A smile creased over Cerrdiwen’s smile, and made her look wise beyond her years. Checking in all the adjoining rooms, under the bed and in the wardrobe, where she found packs and a riding outfit just like hers, she decided Faerv definitely wasn’t in here. Leaving the door to the hall open behind her she strode purposefully down the halls towards the main entrance.

~*~*~*~*~

Faervelui was disappointed not to meet anyone on her aimless walk around the endless hallways. She wanted to find our where she was, what she was doing here. Thoughts and emotions tumbled round in her head, in light of her new found strength. She wanted to find out who the person was who had known her name, who had helped her last night. Why am I here? What do they want with me? Questions kept coming back to the top of her mind, and always a trickle of remembrance of the voice that had hailed her so warmly last night. She followed her nose to the kitchen in the orders of her stomach, and asked the lone elf there if she could have a piece of fruit, and the directions out of the maze of hallways. The elf seemed to know that she was new here, and personally escorted Faervelui to the main entrance.

Thanking the cook, Faervelui, feeling her strength begin to wane, took a bite of her fruit. It tasted sweet and cool, making her lips tingle and her throat yearn for more. Feeling awareness gradually fill her, Faervelui took a seat just outside the door of the entrance, and just sat, enjoying the sunlight. Now that she was fully awake, she was very wary. She didn’t know where she was, and mentally scolded herself for not asking the elf in the kitchens.

Just as she was about to get up, find her belongings and leave before anyone else saw her, a beautiful elf maiden with flowing golden hair and bright, expressive walked out of the holding dressed simply in breeches and a tunic, such as riders wore.

~*~*~*~*~

“Faerv!” Cerridwen was surprised to see her outside of the holding, considering she still didn’t fully know her way around yet. She started to run to the elf, but stopped when Faervelui jumped and ran. Cerridwen’s head was in turmoil. Why doesn't she recognise me?

Running after Faervelui Cerridwen easily began to gain ground. Faervelui was still very tired and weak, despite the adrenaline that had slammed itself round her body when the strange elf had said her name. Hiding behind a tree Faervelui felt very vulnerable. This elf seemed to know her, and she would no doubt want something from her. She tried to slow her breath and her beating heart and thoughts before this rider elf could find her.

“Faerv? Faervelui? Don’t you remember me?” Cerridwen kept her step light, keeping her noise to a minimum so she could listen for her runaway. Climbing a tree she looked down. There was an elf sitting, curled up in a ball right under her, leaning against the tree. Cerridwen had an idea.

Dropping straight down from the tree Cerridwen fell on her friend, rolling her out of her ball. She tickled Faerv, listened to her surprised laugh and then joined in.

Faervelui was taken completely by surprise, she could not believe this elf was being so uncouth, yet she was laughing in spite of herself. This elf seemed to be able to find all her ticklish spots, and the touch and her laughter felt strange, almost distant. When she was more relaxed and just gave in to the rider elf, the tickling stopped, and the two became a bundle of giggles.

After the giggling subsided, Faervelui got to thinking. This elf was strange, and familiar in a way she couldn’t place. In a gasp of horror, Faervelui sat up, dragging her body out of contact with the rider elf’s. What if she was one of..... Faervelui stopped herself. She couldn’t be, She didn’t know where she was, but they wouldn’t have followed her this far. Would they? Faervelui dismissed the thought. This elf seemed friendly enough, but she couldn’t trust her, not yet. Standing up, she made to get away from the elf, to no avail. The familiar elf stood in her path, casually leaning against a young sapling.

~*~*~*~*~

Cerridwen was ecstatic. This was just like old times, and Faerv seemed to remember. Tickling her friend, she let the laughter rip through her body, bringing the type of happiness she hadn’t felt in a long time.

Lying still after Faerv had given in; Cerridwen basked in the warm glow that seemed to fill every particle of her being, like a candle filling the corner of a room with light. She felt Faerv go rigid, and guess what she was going to do. Timing it precisely, Cerridwen managed to step in Faervelui way as she made to desert the glade where she had been bundled.

“You are not going anywhere until you to me why you came here Faerv” Cerridwen inspected her nails, trying to look unconcerned, but really she feared to look into her friends eyes.

~*~*~*~*~

Faervelui’s mind whirled. Her body ached, and her heart was thumping its own rhythm in her chest. Again that familiar voice seemed misplaced, as if it wasn’t meant to be heard again.

“Can I trust you?” The words came with difficulty, and her tiredness obviously showed on her face, because the rider elf looked concerned. Swaying Faervelui tried to steady her mind, and the thoughts of isolation and vulnerability that threatened to consume her.

((sorry, i would right more, but i think i've writeen enough for now, besides im about to get shoved off the comp mecry oh and i apologise for the awful typos, wherever they are))

[Wilwarin]

Brand listened to the conversation between Aerlinn and her brother, trying to pick up some of the words. He knew a little bit of the elf-tongue, but not really enough to know what they were saying. They just spoke it too fast. He was happy when Aerlinn decided to come sit by him. And he especially enjoyed the feel of her head on his shoulder. He put one arm around her waist, content to just hold her slightly this way. But she pulled away all too soon.

Then Brand just watched the two elves while they talked, his gaze switching from one to the other. He kept silent, in no hurry to nose into their privet affairs. But Aerion's last statement caught Brand by surprise almost as much as it did Aerlinn. He looked back and forth between them, not sure what to think or feel.

Aerlinn's father wanted her to go back home? Was that it? Would she then leave him and go back with Aerion? That thought was almost too hard to think about. Would she want him to go with her? That was also a hard thought, but less so. He would go anywhere for her, no matter how unpleasant. And the thought of meeting more elves was definitely unpleasant.

He watched her closely, trying to read her reaction to the news, but her face was a mixture of conflicting emotions, and it was too difficult to tell what she thought. Brand put one arm around her shoulders gently, offering her his support. He wanted her to know that he was with her no matter what she had to do.

[Telumehtar]

Home....the word seemed to echo through the confused elf maiden. She wiped her eyes absently with her hand, then buried her face in Brand's arm, which was around her shoulders, oblivious to the fact that she was wetting his sleeve with her tears. For a moment she sat that way, her head resting on his arm. She took his free hand with hers and gripped it tightly. Aerion sat motionless, knowing this was how she would react. And his heart ached for her.

"Muinthel," Aerion whispered, then continued in the Common Tongue. "Sister...I know you did not wish to hear this, especially from my lips. But you must know....you must see that they are sorry. They regret not seeing you for so long, for making you feel so rejected..." He was nearly begging, though he did not know why. He had never condoned what his parents had done to his sister, but he had wished for so long for them to be a family again. Would they ever be? He knew not.

At the word "rejected" Aerlinn's head snapped up. The look in her eyes made her brother recoil; the beautiful light green eyes were slits of anger and overwhelming sadness. "Rejected?" she whispered, almost in disbelief. "They know nothing of rejection!" Her voice quavered with furious sadness. "They have never felt the pain of having a loved one say they were no longer welcome in their company. They have never felt the hopelessness of being young and alone. They have never....never known their own iell, their own daughter." Aerlinn stopped abruptly, putting her free hand to her forehead in frustration.

Aerion stared at this creature before him. This was not the sister he had known for many years. She had been quiet, her face a carefully guarded unemotive mask. Now the mask was stripped and she was as she had been as a girl. Tempered, feeling. He could think of no words of comfort, but he did not have time; Aerlinn's next words shocked him and they hung in the balance, palpable and still.

"I want to return."

Aerlinn felt Brand stiffen, and she tightened her grip on his hand. "I want to go back, if only to tell them that I have forced any feeling for them from me. My heart feels nothing for them, now that they realize they have caused their own child centuries of loneliness. I cannot force my heart to feel for them." Her voice broke. Somewhere nearby a bird sang a song of chirpy happiness. "But I shall not return. They have spurned me, and I shall not give them the satisfaction of the ability to forgive...to forgive themselves for what they have done in the past." Aerlinn stared defiantly up at her brother. "I shall never return."
~Telu :flamer:

[Ceri Bloom]

"You really don't remember me?" Cerridwen's concerned face held many unshed tears, that she was trying to fight back. At the shaken head of her friend, Cerridwen's young face became the picture of depression. "But you remember your name?" The nod of the head spurred her on. "Right then, lets get you back inside, i think you need to sit down, and then you can tell me about what must've happened to you.

Cerridwen led Faervelui back to the hall, and to a small comfy bench in the corner of a plush room. "Are you feeling any better now?" she asked, not too unkindly. "So tell me what happened"

~*~

Faervelui brushed a single tear that had escaped down her cheek. Through the walk back she has cast her mind out of her body, and into her soul, trying to find a safe place to hide from this familiar, prying face. She didn't want to talk, she wanted to be out of here, in the trees, in the open. She felt claustophic, she felt dismissed by this elf. Brushing another tear from her cheek, she said "I don't want to think about it. Can i leave here now? I thankyou for your hospitality, but i must be going now. I need to get out of this place."

~*~

Cerridwen's eyes had watched the misture of emotions run through her dejected friends body like waves lapping on the beach. But at the mention of leaving, her eyes widned in remembering, then esctasy (sp?). "Thats a wonderful idea! You need to get out, and i am leaving after noon. You are not well enough to travel by yourself, will you travel with me?" Cerridwen saw no need to tell her friend about the reason she was leaving this place, as her friend would not talk to her either.

~*~

No matter how she hated to admit, she knew this elf was right. She was not well enough to travel alone, and to do so could mean her death. After a few moments of agonising decison making, Faervelui finally forced out the word "yes." She felt somehow relieved, but at the same time nervous. How is it this elf knows my name, and knows so much about me? Will i ever remember her who she is? How can i find out where i know her from without asking?

Standing, Faervelui said "But first rider elf, i must know your name." Looking down at her hands in astonishment at the forcefullnss of her voice, she noticed her clothes, so she added, somewhat ruefully " And ill need some new garnments as well."

Jumping up beside her friend, Cerridwen announced gleefully, "My name is Cerridwen, and there are some clothes in your closet, as well as fully packed saddle bags! Come on, this way." Cerridwen, feeling the joy overtake her at being able to converse again with her best friend on the road, floated off down the hall in a rather ungainly manner.

Faervelui had to work hard to keep up with this fleet footed elf, especially being tired as she was, yet she found that by the time she was back in the latrge yellow room, her spirits had lifted. I am leaving! i am getting out of here, i can leave! Seeing Cerridwen lounging on her bed, she turned round and spied the contents of the already opened wardrobe. Taking the vlothes that were neatly floded on the middle shelf, she tried one of the doors that led out of the room. It opened onto the hall.

"You want that one Faerv," Cerridwen pointed to a door near the wide open window. "thats the bathroom. I suggest you make the most of the bathtub, because it'll be the last decent bath you get in a while. I think there's already hot water in there, judging by the steam in the air." Cerridwen giggled quietly to herself.

Getting up she crossed to Faervelui's saddle bags and shouldered them. Calling thriough the bathroom door she said "I'm going to get the horses ready. When are you dressed stay in this room, i will come and get you."

Cerridwen walked down the hallways, giggling to herself. I have my best friend back, and I'm going to see Maras again! she couldn't believe her turn of luck. Her sadness last night seemed entirely forgotten, but not discarded from her bank of memories. On entering her room, she picked up the letter from her friend, the letter from Amras, her own saddle bags, and a couple of other valuable bits that she didn't feel she could part with.

~*~*~

I cant believe this is truly happening! i can feel his prescence already, and hes not mad at me! Cerridwen could hardly contain her joy as she squirmed with happiness on her docile mount. Faervelui sat awkardly on hers, somewhat stiff and unused to riding after recent events. "which was are we going?" Faervelui asked. Cerridwen pointed, knowing that her voice would squeak if she spoke.

Kicking her mount into a gallop Cerridwen spurted off, eager to be on the road. Before they had left she had made sure thye had enough supplies of food and water, and bedding equipment shoiuld it be damp or overly unsuitable for them. "Come on, lets go Faerv!"

Faervelui grinned to herself. She couldn't help but like Cerrridwen, and her laughter was infectious. Gently persuading her mount into a gallop, Faervelui raced after Cerridwen.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel was almost to the bordes of Doriath when night caught up with her again. She had been struggling against the pain of her injury all afternoon-a pain that just kept increasing, she had a hard time dismounting to make camp; she did not wish to enter Doriath in the night, for fear she might be mistaken for an enemy. Removing her boot, not without stifling moans of pain, she saw plainly her fears were well-founded; the would was poisoned...and she was almost out of herbs that might help with countering the venom."There is nothing for that", she thought as she wrapped herself in her blankets to stop the incessant shaking of rising fever. "I'll just have to wait till morning...if I am still alive", that last thought came unbidden in her mind, as she wondered how she would be admitted in Doriath...

[Wilwarin]

Brand was still sitting there, his hand gripping Aerlinn's tightly. He had been shocked at her first statment. Afraid that she would actually go back to wherever it was her parent were, and that she would either leave him, or take him allong—both prospects being highly disagreeable to him. But then, when she said that she would never go back. That her heart felt nothing for her parents, and that she would never forgive them. He felt something else entirely. Remorse? Sadness? Regret? He couldn't identify it. But the feelings were strong. What he wouldn't give for one more chance to see his family again. To see and touch their faces. To hold them close, even just one more time. He would give anything for that. And now Aerlinn had that chance...but she would dismiss it in bitterness. He felt very strong grief for her.

But he would support her in whatever she wanted to do. He loved her after all. So he put his other arm around her, pulling her closer to him. He kissed the top of her head, then rested his cheek there. He whispered soft words of comfort to her, much like he did to his mare when she was frightened. The words were unintelligible, but it was more the sound of his voice that mattered. "I'm with you. No matter what," he whispered more clearly. And that was the truth.

[Telumehtar]

Brand was whispering to Aerlinn, but she didn't understand his words. His tone was soothing. "I'm with you, no matter what," he finally said.

"I know," she choked. "And it means more than you know." She looked down, seeing her plate. She had forgotten it was there, sitting in the grass beside her. She took it up again, trying hard to concentrate on her food (now slightly cold) and not on the conflicting thoughts in her head. There was silence for a few moments as the other two continued eating as well. Then something occurred to the elf maiden, a single stray thought that confused her more than any she had had thus far during this horrible conversation.

"Aerion?" she asked softly, her brows furrowed in thought. He raised his head, and said tiredly, "Yes, muinthel nin?"

"You said our Naneth and Adar wanted me to come back--" the next word stuck in her throat, and she swallowed hard before regaining her train of thought. " home. But how can that be? Our Adar...." she trailed off.

Aerion spoke gently. "I know. But our Naneth told me he had wished you to return for years before his death. You are aware of their system." Aerlinn nodded, now understanding. Her mother had always controlled her father....it was from her mother whom she had inherited her temper. But knowing that her father had wished to see her again, and her mother had forbidden it....it hurt her more than having to decide whether to go back. Her heart ached, and she felt tired of this. Tired of having her emotions torn and ripped within her. She wanted to sleep it all away.

Aerion had finished his food, and was unsure of what to do next. They were journeying somewhere, and he didn't really want to accompany them. Besides, he thought with a small smile, they will wish to be left alone. He looked at his sister lovingly; even in this distressed state there was a happiness around her he had rarely seen previously.

"I should be off," he said slowly. He stood awkwardly, then waited.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

((I'm sorry this took so long! I've been so busy I haven't had time to RP! And sorry it's so short. I hope it's OK))

Brand looked up at the elf when he stood up. What should he do? He wanted to be a comfort to Aerlinn. That's all that really mattered to him. But what about her brother? Should he let the other elf just leave? Brand didn't really want him there. He wanted Aerlinn all to himself. But wasn't that rather selfish of him? He decided he would let Aerlinn decide whether her brother stays or goes. She might need him right now, and Brand didn't want to begrudge her that. So he didn't say anything, deciding to let Aerlinn do all the talking.

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn thought for a moment, then also rose to her feet. She realized what her brother was doing. He was leaving to give her time to think. He would be able to see her emotions were strained, and was going to leave her to what made her happy, what would soothe her--Brand. She had not seen him for years, but they both knew that she needed him gone. And he would do what was best for her, as he always had. They understood each other that way, as they had since childhood. Aerlinn embraced her brother, resting her head on his shoulder for a moment.

"Thank you," she whispered to him, then pulled back. "Where do you plan to go now?"

Aerion looked at her a moment, then replied. "I do not know. But wherever I go, I'll be thinking of you, sister." They both smiled as she hugged him one last time, and then he turned away. He walked to the very edge of the clearing, then turned again and spoke to his sister in their tongue. "We will see each other again soon, you know, Aerlinn. We will find each other again, and I hope to find you as well as I do now." He motioned to Brand, who had stood and now inclined his head at the elf. Then Aerion walked into the dense woods and was gone. For now, anyway; Aerlinn knew his words were truth. They would run into each other again.

Aerlinn's hair blew into her face in the slight breeze, covering her face for a moment. She moved very slowly back over to Brand, taking his hand and pulling him back down to the ground with her. She nudged him onto his back, then lay beside him with her head on his chest, suddenly exhausted.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand was quiet for a moment, just letting her lead him. And he wrapped his arms around her and held her close to him. He was confused and uncertain. He didn't understand all that had just happened, nor did he know what was going to happen next. All he knew without a boubt was that he loved this elf-maiden. And he would stand by her no matter what.

"Aerlinn..." he finally said softly. "I don't know what all that was about. I don't know if I ever will. But I do know one thing; and that is that I love you. I love you so very much. And no matter what happens, this that fact will not change. I am here for you, always."

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn stared into Brand's eyes for a moment.

"I know you do," she said softly. "And I love you...so much. But where do we go from here? I don't understand what just happened, I don't wish to try to sort it out in my mind; not right now. I cannot. But what happens now? Where do we go?"

Confused, she waited for his reply.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

"Well..." Brand thought for a moment, trying to straighten the confused mess in his mind. "I had no destination when I set out on this journey. I often wander, just to see where I end up. Mainly because I can't stand staying in one place for too long. It lets the...it lets things catch up with me."

[Telumehtar]

Aerlinn smiled at his words, for they seemed to have come from her own thoughts.

"I am the same way. I wander simply to see where I shall find myself. Though I have most often traveled to clear my head, to keep things from catching up with me."

She smiled wanly. She remembered the day the two had met, when something inside of her had shifted and caused her to seek him out. Was it really only a couple of days ago? What had brought that change within her? She thought back to what he had said outside the pub that day, that he ran from nothing. She had seen in his face that that was untrue...but she had not guessed how much. But now was not the time to think about his past, or her own...she pushed the thoughts of Erelas and of Ladros from her mind. They could talk later.

She gave him a quick hug, leaving her arms wrapped loosely about his waist. Looking up at him she spoke quietly.

"Should we be off, then?"

((Sorry this is kind of short...I have to finish my English homework ;)))
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

((I'm so sorry I haven't posted. Life has been very hectic the last month. I hope you're all still here ;) ))

Brand smiled down at her as he returned the light embrace, resting his hands on her slender hips. "Yes, my love. I will go anywhere with you. Shall we head south for now? And we will see where the wind blows us." He let go of her and led her to their horses.

[Telumehtar]

((Tis just fine! I've been pretty busy lately also))

"South sounds fine," she answered as she followed Brand over to the horses. Nárë was dozing with his head down, and she patted his neck softly to wake him. He gazed at her with sleepy eyes as she opened one of her bags to check on her tiny rat. It was still there, curled up in the bottom of the bag, seemingly content to stay. She swung up onto the stallion's back, then took a long glance at the clearing. So much had happened there in so short a time...it was a special place now. But there were more places that she had yet to see, and that had yet to become special to her, and she was finding herself eager to be off. A slight smile playing on her lips, she turned the stallion towards the clearing's edge and urged him forward, hearing Brand behind her.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

Brand nudged his mare forward in a trot to catch up with Aerlinn. He came along side her and gave her a warm smile. And together they rode through the trees and down an incline. When they were on level ground Brand kissed to Erelas and the mare broke into an easy run. He heard Aerlinn's stallion following close behind.

And for the next two hours they rode thus, now running now trotting, until the land began to change and they could see a vast flat land below them. They were almost got out of the mountains. It had been a long time since Brand had set eyes on that land. He wondered if those he knew out there were still alive.

At last he paused to rest the horses. "The Teiglin River, out there," he pointed to the valley below and far into the distance. They could see a silver ribbon glinting in the new sun, stretching its way South. "It flows on the West and South borders of the Forest of Brethil. I know people there, we should be safe."

[Telumehtar]

((sorry guys, holidays and studying for finals has been keeping me busy!!))

Aerlinn smiled warmly to Brand at his words, though she wasn't concerned with their safety. It wasn't something she worried about often. She yawned and leaned forward slightly to pat Nárë's neck.

"Who do you know there?" she asked, glancing at this man she loved so. She was wary of asking too much, for she knew his background was painful, but she was curious. Asking Brand about his people made her think of her own, of their recent but brief encounter with her brother. Had she been too hasty in letting him go? She knew it was not often they saw each other, and a wave of sadness briefly took over her. Trying to shove the emotion back, she looked back at Brand.
~Telu :flamer:

[Wilwarin]

((Yay! You posted *huggles* Welcome back, mellon))


"Old friends," Brand said. "People who helped me once, many years ago. I don't know if they're still there, but I hope so."

He looked closer at her for a moment, and then reached across and rested his hand on her knee.

"Are you alright?" he asked softly.

[Telumehtar]

((Finals are finally OVER!! Now I can get back to posting.:)))

Aerlinn put her hand over Brand's, squeezing it gently as she smiled at him. "I'm fine, just thinking about Aerion," she replied, wishing her emotions didn't show so clearly on her face. She wondered if these people he knew had known his wife as well. Erelas. She had thought of the woman once or twice, but briefly, knowing that it wouldn't do any good to think about their comparisons. She also wondered about how she had died, in Ladros most likely. No doubt it was a sad story; Brand had not told her the whole tale before when she asked him about his past. But she didn't wish to make him speak of it again.

The elf gazed at the flat lands before them, the shining silver river stretching so far ahead of them. Vacantly she wondered how far away it was. She nudged Nárë in the ribs gently with her foot to get him trotting again, Brand at her side. Brand and Erelas, she corrected herself.
~Telu :flamer: