RPG: Sword From the Sheath

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane

"I am glad you think so. I thought I was about to not only drink the green stuff but also learn how to make it and then drink it."

Eamane grinned. "Well perhaps," She was interrupted by a knock on the door. She felt a flash of irritation at the interruption. At the appearance of Lord Erestor, she frowned.

"Lady Eamane please forgive my intrusion but a certain urgent matter came up and Lord Elrond requests Lord Glorfindel's presence."

"But, Lord Elrond was just here and he said," she trailed off, looking at Glorfindel's face. He stood and stepped away from her. She felt her chance slipping away...

"Lord Elrond would not change his orders unless something is trully important."

She nodded and glanced at Erestor again. The councilor looked quite upset. That in itself was enough to make her worry. "Of course," she said reluctantly. She knew there was sadness in her eyes. She didn't try to hide it.

"Eamane I will try to return today if I can. I'm sorry."

Since he was looking at her, he didn't see Erestor flinch, but Eamane did. Something was terribly wrong. She felt slightly panicked.

"You must follow me immidiately." The councillor said.

Before Glorfindel could step further away from her, she grabbed for his hand, and clung to it. "Wait, just a second, please." Her eyes, huge with something akin to fear, pleaded with Erestor, who, though he didn't leave, made a thorough study of the window. She focused on Glorfindel then. He was looking at her with surprise. "I wanted to tell you something," she said softly. Her heart pounded in her chest.
*******************************
Sarna

She had been staring at the floor, and at Toron for an hour. Nothing was coming to her. "This is pointless. I'm going for a walk," she said.

"But my lady, the plans..." Toron started.

"Aren't getting developed while I'm sitting here. I need to move. I need to think. I'm going for a walk. While I'm at it, you can unpack. We aren't going anywhere today."

Without another word, she left, headed for the gardens. A different path this time. A hopefully solitary one. She walked swiftly, letting the peace of the gardens calm her.

[Ladypain]

"I wanted to tell you something," she said softly. Her heart pounded in her chest.

"What is it?" Glorfindel forced a smile stepping closer to her but he felt Erestor grip his other arm.
"My Lady I'm afraid Lord Glorfindel must leave." Erestor told them. He forcefully pulled Marchwarden to the door. Surprised by such action Glorfindel didn't resist. He was confused and worried, the two feelings mirrored in Eamane's eyes as well, it was what he saw before he was dragged out of the room.
Glorfindel followed Erestor outside where he came face to face with Chief at arms. Altenen could not conceal the triumphant smirk. He was glowing brighter than the scorching sun in the zenith. “Lord Glorfindel you are under arrest and charged with treason.” He declared as his guards made a circle around the Marchwarden.
“You finally lost the little you had of your mind.” Glorfindel replied icily. He tried to break through the circle but the guards unsheathed their weapons glaring at him. He stepped back reading in their eyes steel determination to stab him unless he obeyed. Glorfindel turned to the only reasonable being present. “Erestor what is the meaning of this?” He asked. Only the councillor’s presence stopped him from attempting to break Altenen’s neck or thinking the world had gone mad.
“Lord Altenen is exaggerating but Lord Elrond issued an order for you to be escorted to him.” The councillor seemed fearful. “You should go with them.”
“I will do so only because I respect your judgement Erestor.” The Marchwarden was like a lion assaulted by a pack of jackals. “Lead the way.” He glared at the Chief at arms.
“First you will hand over you weapons.” Altenen cut him off.
Glorfindel coldly gave up his knife but his outer calm was contrary to the rage boiling inside him.
“That’s not much weapons for a soldier.” Apparently it was Altenen’s task to infuriate him. Perhaps Chief at arms wanted him to do something foolish.
“I was going to visit a friend and not on an orc hunt.” Glorfindel cut him off. Suddenly he was turned face to the wall and someone searched him.
“Now you may follow me, traitor.” There was nothing but mockery in Altenen’s words and gestures.
The Marchwarden grit his teeth. His anger grew hotter under the afternoon sun as he passed through the streets surrounded by guards many elves saw him in humiliating position. His anger slowly turned against Elrond who issued such order.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond paced around his study, with the full knowledge that he would dig a hole in the very floor if he kpet doing that much longer. His mind was racing. The letter stood flat upon his desk, the Mirkwood seal catching the morning light;Elrond scowled at it, as if it was the thing to be blamed for everything.

The sound of many feet, marching in formation, roused him from his grim thoughts. They stopped right outside his office and moments later, Altenen came in, Glorfindel walking in front of him, as sword point. Elrond frowned. "I thought I told you to escort him here, not arrest him", he said coolly, not doubting that Altenen had abused the authority given him with the Lord's command. "Leave us", he said coldly. Altenen protested at once."But my Lord, your life might be at stake..."he started, but Elrond cut him off."I said, leave us; and I had best not see any of your men lingering outside my doors; I can take care of myself", he added, addressing that last comment to Erestor, who seemed ready to argue, as well.

As the door closed behind them, Elrond turned to Glorfindel, his expression unfathomable, his eyes cold and forbidding."You are accused of treason", he said quietly. "And this time there is hard evidence of your guilt, not just rumours...Explain yourself!"

[Ladypain]

You are accused of treason", he said quietly. "And this time there is hard evidence of your guilt, not just rumours...Explain yourself!

The swelled grudge which had a lot of heat to feed on exploded. "I beleive you are the one to explain youself sending Altenen to arrest me. Really Elrond, I might expect to hear such dellirium from that imbecile Altenen but I never expected such to be coming out of your month." Glorfindel retorted furiously.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"What is it?" Glorfindel forced a smile stepping closer to her

Eamane opened her mouth to speak, but was stopped by Erestor. He took hold of Glorfindel's arm. She frowned.

"My Lady I'm afraid Lord Glorfindel must leave." Erestor told them. He forcefully pulled the Marchwarden to the door.

Glorfindel looked at her, worry and confusion in his eyes. She tried to smile reassuringly at him, but only managed to look half-sick. He went with Erestor without complaint. Eamane stared at the door to her bedroom blankly. She felt cold, and afraid. Once more she cursed her ankle. If she could walk, she could have gone with him. Something was terribly wrong.

"Ninde," she called. "Ninde are you still here?" She was trembling. She had nearly told him... something. She hadn't been sure what she was going to say. Something about caring for him or... something. She hugged her arms around her, and glared at her ankle. Was it her imagination or had the swelling gone down?

Ninde came in then, looking a little wild-eyed. "Yes my lady?" she asked.

Eamane looked at her. "What it is? What happened?"

With an effort Ninde seemed to gather herself. "Nothing my lady," she said. "I was in the kitchen the whole time."

Eamane narrowed her eyes at the maid. "The kitchen window looks out to the front courtyard. What happened?" She hugged her arms around her tighter.

"Lord Erestor... he came with the Master at Arms and soldiers my lady. When he escorted Lord Glorfindel out... they were waiting for him." She stopped and bit her lip.

"Was he hurt?" Eamane asked with forced calm. Inside she was screaming.

"No my lady... but his knife was taken from him... and he was searched for other weapons. I... I couldn't hear what they were saying, but it appeared that he was under arrest." Ninde voice was fearful. "He looked calm my lady but... his eyes." She shivered a little.

Eamane stared at her. The words sank in slowly. "Lord Glorfindel, Marchwarden of Imladris, the Balrogslayer... Lord of Lost Gondolin... was just arrested outside my home?" she asked, numbly.

"I believe so my lady," Ninde managed. She watched her mistress carefully. This could very well cause a breakdown.

Eamane was blessedly numb. "There must be some mistake," she said simply. "I'm sure Elrond will sort it out." It occured to her that Elrond had sent them here but she pushed that aside. "I would like some tea Ninde, and then... I would like you to go to Lord Elrond's estate. See what you can find out."

"But my lady, what if you have need of me while I'm gone?" Ninde asked.

Eamane looked at her, some of the pain coming through her gaze now. "I need you to do this for me now. That is the most important thing. Find the truth inthe rumors I'm sure are already rampant." Her eyes was nearly pleading. "Please Ninde."

"Of course my lady," Ninde said nodding.

A short time later, when Ninde had gone and Eamane was alone in her home, she allowed herself to weep. Something was wrong. She could feel it, like a dark cloud around the city, but she was trapped in her bed by her injury and could do nothing. And Glorfindel had been arrested. She wept harder.

[Laurelin]

Haldir was greatly distressed about the princesses, as usual. Their antics were wearing thin and he would have given anything for them to be back in Lothlorien where they were safe from harm. He continued walking down the path to the gardens. He hoped beyond hope that they were empty so he could sit at the bench that he and Sarna sat at the night before. Long had the day seemed to him, even though it was only mid day. He rounded the corner and saw Sarna. His heart felt as though it skipped a beat. He stopped and looked at her, hoping she would not look away as she did earlier. He hoped that she would perhaps explain herself or had last night meant nothing to her. "Sarna" he said softly, bowing, as he waited for her to respond.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"I beleive you are the one to explain youself sending Altenen to arrest me. Really Elrond, I might expect to hear such dellirium from that imbecile Altenen but I never expected such to be coming out of your month."

~Anger~thought Elrond; a most suspicious reaction, but it might be easily explained, given the situation. his eyes were shimmering coldly, as he spoke. "This was found in your private offices", he said flatly, showing Glorfindel the letter; the wax seal seemed wrought of gold as the sun danced on it, while Elrond handed the letter to the Marchwarden."Were I not in doubt you would be in chains already", he said, "so take care that you tell me the truth as to how this letter came into your possession; every word in that missive would involve Rivendell in this war...worse yet, it might earn us Lothlorien as an enemy."

[EamaneSilimaure]

Before she knew it, her feet had taken her to small garden as she'd been in the night before. She moved to the bench, but did not sit on it. She couldn't, not alone. It seemed wrong, and she knew she should turn and go another way. Memories of the night before swept through her and though it was daylight now, she scene was the same. At a sound she looked up and there he was. Her heart jumped. She wanted to scream with grief and weep with joy at the sight of him.

"Sarna" he said softly, bowing, as he waited for her to respond.

She drank him in, free to look at him now there there were no witnesses. She took a step toward him. "Haldir I," she stopped. Her throat seemed clogged. She couldn't speak. She took another step toward him and stopped. She kept her eyes on his face, waiting for some reaction.

[Ladypain]

The Marchwarden have read the letter then glared darkly at shimmering seal. "I have never seen this before and if I had you would have being the first one to know of it." The sight of letter irritated him even farther. So there was a real traitor free and no doubt celebrating his arrest. Glorfindel looked at the nearby fireplace wishing he could burn whoever set him up along with the parchment. Elrond instantly grabbed the letter from his hand misinterpreting his intentions. "Don't be a fool. Why would I wish for a war with Lothlorien? The orcs are enough trouble for me."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond monitored Glorfindel's reaction as his eyes moved over the lines of the letter swiftly. He did not seem surprised...and why would he be, if he had been the recipient of it, Elrond thought ruefully.Glorfindel looked at the fire burning brightly; Elrond wondered if he had been considering burning the incriminating missive, as he took the letter back.

"Don't be a fool. Why would I wish for a war with Lothlorien? The orcs are enough trouble for me."

"This is not about a war with Lothlorien, is it?This is the recipient of this letter working with Mirkwood, to achieve some invisible and undoubtedly dark end...The fact that this letter was found in your office-your office, Glorfindel!-implicates you as eloquently as any evidence would. Are you going to tell me you had never seen this letter before today?"Elrond asked darkly, to conceal his own nervousness.~It cannot be~he thought, seeking to find the truth in his oldest friend's eyes, but there was nothing there but coldness.

[Laurelin]

"Haldir I..."

His heart melted in an instant at her tremulous voice. His face softened and he rushed to her, taking her in his arms. He held her tightly, for its what she seemed to want just now. Something must have happened such that she did not look at him earlier for fear of the others know her feelings towards him. He knew it was not quite safe for a Marchwarden of Lorien to be courting an Ambassador of Mirkwood. He would be in trouble of the worst kind if all knew about them right now.

The feel of her body against him and the smell of her long hair made him forget his woes for a moment. Finally, he pulled back just enough to look into her pain riddled eyes. "What... why..." he started, but not finding the words he was looking for, he smiled softly instead. "Tell me what troubles you? I see clearly on your face what your lips do not tell me" he asked her softly, cupping her face in his hands.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Suddenly she was in his arms. He held her tightly, and she held him just as tightly. Just the feel of him against her soothed her jangled nerves. She pressed her face into his neck. When he finally pulled back, she was no longer on the verge of tears. he looked into her eyes.

"What... why..." he started, but not finding the words he was looking for, he smiled softly instead. "Tell me what troubles you? I see clearly on your face what your lips do not tell me" he asked her softly, cupping her face in his hands.

She smiled at little at his stumbling questions. It was only right that he ask such. After so much had happened between them, he had the right. If only she could tell him truly. Instead she sighed a little. "Sometimes I hate my job," she said softly. For the first time in her life, that was true. "I came here to advise the prince, as ordered by my king." Sarna looked away from him, the lie tasting like ash on her tongue.

"Yet, I have been here for days and we are no closer to a truce. In fact if the words of my fellow ambassadors can be trusted, we are closer to war than ever." She looked at him, her eyes soft and sad. "And then there is you, and... us. I know what I feel and I know that should anyone find out... Everything I've tried will be lost. I would be sent home... and never see you again." Her hands clutched at his tunic.

She had stayed as close to the truth as she could. In a way, she was advising the prince, and the ambassadors really were idiots. And she knew the danger of pursuing this... relationship. It was not a courtship, not really. It couldn't be.

[Laurelin]

"Sometimes I hate my job," she said softly. "I came here to advise the prince, as ordered by my king."

He smiled sadly, understanding what it was like to do one's duty and at times hate it very much. "May I confide in you?" he asked, caressing her cheek lightly. "At times I too hate my job. I...find it difficult to bridge the gap between me and those in my charge. I must protect them and I would do so, even at the cost of my own life, but I feel they resent me for my efforts to keep them safe" he explained, looking at the ground. "I have known them all of their lives. Though it matters not and some days I wish I could walk away..." he looked at her sadly. "Duty and honor stay me whether I wish it or not. And by doing so, I have met you" he said smiling.

"Yet, I have been here for days and we are no closer to a truce. In fact if the words of my fellow ambassadors can be trusted, we are closer to war than ever. And then there is you, and... us. I know what I feel and I know that should anyone find out... Everything I've tried will be lost. I would be sent home... and never see you again."

He kissed her forehead and drew her close, wondering how to allay her worry given that he felt the same frustrations as she did. His heart ached at the thought of being parted from her. Whether they were at war or not, parting may be inevitable. He pushed those thoughts from his mind and kissed her gently on the lips. "We may yet avoid war, melleth. We have to have hope."

[Ladypain]

"This is not about a war with Lothlorien, is it?This is the recipient of this letter working with Mirkwood, to achieve some invisible and undoubtedly dark end...The fact that this letter was found in your office-your office, Glorfindel!-implicates you as eloquently as any evidence would. Are you going to tell me you had never seen this letter before today?"

"This letter implicates nothing! As far as you know Belliwedat might have found it and brought it to my office, or the REAL traitor purposely left it there. Of all the possibilities you had to chose the one which makes me evil, corrupted villain. Have I ever betrayed you to deserve such treatment?" He was angry like before and glared coldly at Elrond who did likewise. "I have not seen that letter ever before and I will not confess to ill deed I am innocent of. If you trully believe that this letter is enough to charge me with treason perhaps you should lock me away." Glorfindel suggested in a heat of a moment. He did not think Elrond would do so.

[EamaneSilimaure]

He kissed her forehead, and hugged her to him, seeming to brush her cares away with his lips. He kissed her and she let him, unwilling to part, though it be broad daylight and anyone could come upon them.

"We may yet avoid war, melleth. We have to have hope."

She buried her face in his neck and kissed him there. Unknowing, he had stripped to the heart of the matter. They might avoid war, if she didn't do what her king asked of her. If she did not do her duty, then her homeland might not be torn by war. And if she did, then Lorien would surely move against her king. If that happened, then she might someday face this elf in battle. And they would be fighting in earnest then. By then of course, he would hate her.

"Hope seems a distant thing," she murmured. "Except when I am in your arms melindo." She lifted her face and looked into his eyes. They were bluer in the sunlight than they had been under the stars. "You give me hope Haldir," she said, smiling. Her heart was lighter, though her burdens were no less than they had been.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"This letter implicates nothing! As far as you know Belliwedat might have found it and brought it to my office, or the REAL traitor purposely left it there. Of all the possibilities you had to chose the one which makes me evil, corrupted villain. Have I ever betrayed you to deserve such treatment?"

Elrond returned Glorfindel's cold stare with one of his own.Whatever the outcome of this confrontation, the thought came unbidden in his mind, it would seem an age long friendship was about to end;Glorfindel would never forgive him, if he were mistaken, and he would,of course, never forgive Glorfindel were he to prove the traitor Erestor and Altenen portrayed him to be."You have not, though I find your reaction right now, more than a little suspicious",he frowned, keeping his own voice calm to counter for the Marchwarden's loudness."Why don't you tell me how this letter came into your hands, then?"

"I have not seen that letter ever before and I will not confess to ill deed I am innocent of. If you trully believe that this letter is enough to charge me with treason perhaps you should lock me away."

Elrond did his best to keep from rolling his eyes; this sort of vehement, defensive denial was uncharacteristic of Glorfindel, he thought sullenly."He recalled the servant having come only moments before the Marchwarden had been ushered into his office, to tell him of some bottles of wine, also found in Glorfindel's quarters...the smooth , crimson wine of Rivendell had been spiked with sleeping draught, it seemed, for the maid that had stolen a sip at one of them, had immediately fell into deep slumber, frightening the other servants appointed with the task of cleaning up; why would Glorfindel have something like that in his office, Elrond wondered, Daewen's earlier words of caution suddenly popping up in his mind. He shook his head, as if to drive all thought away; he had never been more confused and dissapointed at the same time in his life."If I thought you are guilty of treason, indeed, we would not be having this conversation at all", he said quietly."You know this, I think; you would have been locked up, as you put it already.I suggest you calm down and explain yourself!".

[Ladypain]

If I thought you are guilty of treason, indeed, we would not be having this conversation at all", he said quietly."You know this, I think; you would have been locked up, as you put it already.I suggest you calm down and explain yourself!

"Oh so I am given a right of a so called fair trial." He retorted sacracticly. "It is amasing how you think that I received the letter in my office and was away orc hunting at the same time. In case you didn't notice I was not in Rivendell for the past two days which by the way was rather beneficial for the safety of the city. On the way back I met both Princesses outside the gates. They were going on a picnic. If I really wished them harm I would have allowed them to carry on with that little task which did not happen."

[Charmander]

The door to the princesses guset house opened suddenly and Haldir bowed, 'My Lord Legolas.' Before being able to utter a reply Haldir walked out of the house quickly.

Legolas stood dumbfounded for a second, the look on Haldir's face was that of disgust and disbelief. He walked slowly into the guest house, 'Princess, it would seem something greatly troubles your MarchWarden. I do not mean to intrude, I wanted to make sure that you were both well and unharmed.'

[Laurelin]

"Hope seems a distant thing," she murmured. "Except when I am in your arms melindo. You give me hope Haldir"

Haldir's heart fluttered at her words, even though her eyes still seemed grim with worry. He continued to hold her for a moment longer. He would have been content to stay there all day with her in his arms if it were not for the footsteps that approached. Haldir and Sarna exchanged looks, knowing they had to part. He kissed her quickly on the lips and released her, stepping back casually as she did the same. Just in time too, it would seem as an elf maiden unknown to him walked through the gardens, nodding to them as she went by.

Haldir watched as she walked away, then turned back to Sarna. "We have lingered here too long" he whispered, looking down at the ground in frustration. He would love to spend more time with her but he knew that was not possible right now. He glanced around, much the same way she did...like a soldier would. He frowned slightly and dismissed it thinking that perhaps she was mearly being cautious as he was. The sun made her blonde hair look golden in the light and her face was radiant, though her eyes were sad. Neither of them, it seemed, wanted to walk away. Try as he might, his feet would not move. "We should go, lest were caught" he whispered sadly.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Oh so I am given a right of a so called fair trial." He retorted sacracticly. "It is amasing how you think that I received the letter in my office and was away orc hunting at the same time. In case you didn't notice I was not in Rivendell for the past two days which by the way was rather beneficial for the safety of the city. On the way back I met both Princesses outside the gates. They were going on a picnic. If I really wished them harm I would have allowed them to carry on with that little task which did not happen."

Elrond sighed; there was no talking to Glorfindel when he was like that, he knew well, and this attitude was not helping either of them much.It was time for a change in approach, he thought, already hating himself for what he was about to do."Very well, Glorfindel", he said quietly."I assume what you say makes sense; try to calm down, you know quite well that I have to check everything in these troubled times, even my best friend", his voice broke a little."I want you to find out how that letter came to be in your office, if indeed it was not addressed to you; perhaps, as you say, someone confiscated and brought it to your office for you to examine it", he shrugged."Perhaps it was planted...in any case, I want you to find out who it was originally for".He paused, checking his friend's rection...and planning how and who would become the Marchwarden's shadow from now on."And what was that about the rpincesses of Lothlorien going out on a picnic outside the city walls?"he frowned, seeking to alleviate the tension...and make Glorfindel think he was safe once more.

[Ladypain]

"Both Princesses along with Lady Sarnatelme of Mirkwood and few of my sentries risked leaving the safety of Rivendell walls. So they can go on a picnic to the river. They have not informed Lord Haldir of those plans. I told them to return to the city as well as took their picnic baskets. I suspect there might be something harmful mixed into the food or the wine." Glorfindel explained slowly to give himself time to calm down. The change in Elrond's attitude did not fool him but worked like an ice shower. The anger still swelled in him but the instinct suddenly drew a very realistic picture of him protrayed as a traitor. The emotions Rivendell's Lord demonstated showed that Elrond was clearly almost convinced of his guilt. Glorfindel had no doubts that if the elven-Lord was letting him go it would be conditional every more he made would be shadowed. The Marchwarden felt however that he was very close to untying the mystery. Sarnatelme undoubtedly had at least some answers that would help him in his search. He only needed a little bit of time. "I am prepared to find whoever this letter was meant for." He answered at last.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

'Princess, it would seem something greatly troubles your MarchWarden. I do not mean to intrude, I wanted to make sure that you were both well and unharmed.'

Haldir left in a hurry and Legolas stepped in, apparently dumbfounded.Ithildiel rose slowly from her seat, her miond still dwelling on their discussion with Haldir only moments before."good morning, meleth nin", she said quietly, hoping her voice was not all that cheerless."Are you feeling better this morning?"

**************************
Elrond

Both Princesses along with Lady Sarnatelme of Mirkwood and few of my sentries risked leaving the safety of Rivendell walls. So they can go on a picnic to the river. They have not informed Lord Haldir of those plans. I told them to return to the city as well as took their picnic baskets. I suspect there might be something harmful mixed into the food or the wine."

A sliver of doubt crept into Elrond's thought at these words; it seemed the wine incident was by no means relevant to the accusations made, he thought guiltily."There was sleeping draught in the wine", he said quietly, avoiding Glorfindel's gaze."Some servant tried to take a sip of it and has been asleep ever since he did so, I was told shortly before you arrived..."He wondered if it was all an elaborate trap set not only for Glorfindel but himself as well.~In any case, I cannot risk it~he told himself grimly,~I need to make sure...by any means necessary.

"I am prepared to find whoever this letter was meant for."

"Get to it, then", Elrond said, keeping his grim thoughts to himself."But beofre you do, you should go over to Lady Eamane's; I expect she might have been upset with your sudden departure", he sighed, hoping with all his heart Altenen had not been as crude as to confront Glorfindel in the presence of the healer.

[EamaneSilimaure]

He held her still, and she could have stayed there for the rest of the day. But approaching footsteps made that impossible. Casually, Haldir released her and stepped back, just as she did the same. The elf maiden who passed merely nodded. Sarna felt frozen. Should anyone suspect...

"We have lingered here too long" he whispered,

She nodded sadly even as she looked around for somewhere to go, or for any place someone else might appear. When she looked back at him he seemed to be memorizing her face. She smiled a little. She didn't want to leave him. She still had thinking to do. And a plan to make, but her feet refused to move.

"We should go, lest were caught" he whispered sadly.

"We should," she agreed softly. She listened carefully to the sounds around them. No one was near. Then her feet moved, towards him, rather than away. She put her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately before stepping back. "May the stars light your path until our next meeting melindo," she said. Then, with all the strength she could muster, she turned away.

((ooc: Laur... Sarna's hair is blonde ;) - fixed :blush: ))

[Ladypain]

Get to it, then.

"Gladly." Glorfindel undrestood the dismissive phrase and left. He hurried away from the house to be lost in the city before any spy caught up with him although perhaps it was less suspicious for him to wait for such escort. Glorfindel was uncertain whether to return to Eamane. She seemed pale and almost frightened but he would have to explain to her why he was called away and accusations against him are unlikely to make her feel better. Neither would he be able to lie to her. Returning to his office was also unnecessary. He needed a clear head and the sight of someone who foolishly thought the evidence was for eating was not likely to calm his nerves. Elrond told him that someone added a sleeping herbs. The only reasonable thing left was to find the ambassador. Glorfindel returned to the park to cut across to the ambassadors quarters doing his best to ignore what was happening behind his back when he unexpectedly saw Lady Sarnatelme going somewhere alone. "Ambassador. A word please." He called her.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond watched Glorfindel go off, his pace rigid and tense, not without some sad dismay.~I hope...~he started, not even sure what he was supposed to think. Ther was no way Gorfindel was a traitor, but then again....anything was possible in times grave as this.

[Laurelin]

"We should"

Haldir nodded numbly, unable to move either. He swallowed hard, thinking that this may be the last time he would be this close to her for some reason. He puzzled as to why he felt this way. In the middle of his musings she walked towards him. He felt her wrap her arms around him and place her lips on his. He felt like he melted into her for a moment. He had no desire to let go, but knew that they must or pay the consequence. She finally let go and backed away, touching his face lightly.

"May the stars light your path until our next meeting melindo"

She turned and left so quickly and quietly that he was unable to speak for a moment. She moved swiftly and in utter silence. He frowned at this, but did not dwell on it much more. ~And you melleth nin~ He turned from the gardens and walked back towards the center of the city, unsure of what to do next since he had given the Princesses the freedom that they desired for the day. For some odd reason Haldir was melancholy, though he did not understand why.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel stood up slowly, 'Good morning, meleth nin, are you feeling better this morning?'

Legolas walked towards her reaching his hands out to take hers, 'I am feeling much better.' He pulled her into his arms slowly, 'I am afraid to inquire after the MarchWarden.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I am feeling much better.' He pulled her into his arms slowly, 'I am afraid to inquire after the MarchWarden.'

Ithildiel burrowed her head on his shoulder briefly, then pushed him away softly, glancing back at Celebrian who still sat pale and silent."You'd better not, then", she sighed. "He...I think our behaviour has hurt him more than he would ever let us realise..."she sighed, her eyes gleaming with the threat of tears.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna kept herself quiet, half afraid and half hopeful that he would follow her. She buried the tears she wanted to cry behind the wall of ice she'd built. She had no time for tears, she had to find a way to get the Princesses out ofthe city. And now that the Marchwarden was back in the city, that would be made even more difficult. How would she get around his security?

"Ambassador. A word please." He called her.

Sarna turned to see the very elf she had wanted to avoid. "Good evening Marchwarden," she said politely. "How may I be of service?" She kept herself calm, as if in the presence of an enemy. In a way, she was.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel hesitated whether to take her to his office first but thought against it while a possible spy was waiting for him there. The long training brought the unreadable mask back to his face without him thinking about it. "My Lady as you understand today's morning incident cannot be ignored. I would appreciate your help in this matter. If it does not trouble you so much would you be so kind as to remember who had made the picnic food for you and where did you get the wine?" He asked almost indifferently as if he was only checking a minor detail that revealed nothing of his suspicions. Perhaps it might put her at ease.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"My Lady as you understand today's morning incident cannot be ignored. I would appreciate your help in this matter. If it does not trouble you so much would you be so kind as to remember who had made the picnic food for you and where did you get the wine?"

Sarna watched his face a moment before replying. "I requested one of the baskets last night, in the main kitchens at Lord Elrond's Estate. I picked it up there this morning. The Princesses of Lothlorien brought another when we met at the gates. I don't know the origins of it." She inclined her head. "May I inquire as to the reason for this request my lord?"

[Ladypain]

"It is nothing of great importance. I'm afraid though I cannot return the basket to you because a few sentries decided they were hungry after a hunt and stole a few sandwiches from it. Rather amusing incident." Glorfindel smiled. Perhaps it was it better to simply ask her straight foreward. The Marchwarden had little interest in arresting her but he thought the plans against Lothlorien were not made by Mirkwood alone. Sarnatelme might have being connected to somene in Rivendell and that is the person the Marchwarden was hunting after. Glorfindel felt he had very little time left. Even if she didn't know who the traitor was or she was not going to tell him and there was little he could do against someone with diplomatic immunity even if she was not really an ambassador, Glorfindel still could have removed Sarna from his borders and whoever planned harm to the Princesses would have to come up with another plan during which they might give away themselves.
He changed the tactics.
"The basket is of little importance my Lady and it does not take long to find out about it in a diffent way but I'm afraid I have unpleasent news which undermine and I dare say jepordise your stay in Rivendell. It concerns a certain letter found in your quarters." He paused waiting for her reaction.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel embraced him briefly before pushing him away gently,'You'd better not, then. He...I think our behaviour has hurt him more than he would ever let us realise...'

Legolas followed her gaze back to Celebrian, who hardly took notice of the prince or her cousin. Ithildiel was clearly distressed, her eyes gleaming. She half-turned from him, despite his hands resting on her shoulders. He kissed her softly on the crown of her head, 'Princess, I just wanted to be certain you were both safe.' He gently squeezed Ithildiel's shoulders, 'Also, I fear the, MarchWarden and I, in this instance, share the same concern: we fear for your safety.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'Princess, I just wanted to be certain you were both safe.' He gently squeezed Ithildiel's shoulders, 'Also, I fear the, MarchWarden and I, in this instance, share the same concern: we fear for your safety.'

Ithildiel smiled faintly at him."I know, we already heard it all from Haldir...And I suppose he was right, as are you; but we can fend for ourselves if need be.Protection around us needn't be so...stringent or so suffocating..."she sighed, glancing back at Ceelbrian, who remained lost in thought, before turning back to Legolas, looking more worried than ever.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"It is nothing of great importance. I'm afraid though I cannot return the basket to you because a few sentries decided they were hungry after a hunt and stole a few sandwiches from it. Rather amusing incident."

Sarna raised an eyebrow at him. She wondered if that had drunk the wine as well. If they had, she doubted he wouldbe this calm. "I imagine it would be," she murmured.

"The basket is of little importance my Lady and it does not take long to find out about it in a diffent way but I'm afraid I have unpleasent news which undermine and I dare say jepordise your stay in Rivendell. It concerns a certain letter found in your quarters."

Luckily, she was used to showing none of her emotions to her troops. If her mask had not already been in place she probably would have gasped. As it was she merely smiled at him curiously. "A letter my lord? How... interesting. What kind of letter?" Her expression was all innocent curiousity, but her eyes were hard and cold. The letter from the king could implicate her, though her name had not been mentioned. It would however result in heightened security. Which would make her job near impossible.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel summoned all his imagination. He was moving in the dark but he felt a light very close to his guesses. He noticed nearly invisible spark of worry hidden under curiosity. "This letter implies your participation in a conspiracy against Lorien and Rivendell the consequence of which might bring war on a brink of which we all stand. What can you say to that?" Deliberately slowly he recited one of the sentences from the letter.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"This letter implies your participation in a conspiracy against Lorien and Rivendell the consequence of which might bring war on a brink of which we all stand. What can you say to that?" Deliberately slowly he recited one of the sentences from the letter.

The tide of this war must be turned in our favor.

Sarna felt cold to her bones at his words. It seemed he'd found the most damning evidence possible. Still, perhaps she could salvage... something. "I'm sure I don't know what you mean," she said calmly. "Though I would like to know what makes you think you have the right to break into and ambassador's quarters to gains such fraudulent evidence my lord." She put all her height to advantage, bring herself nearly eye level with him. Her tone was haughty and her eyes cold. "I am a guest in your land my lord and I would take offense to such accusations if they meant anything at all." She hoped she was denying too much.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel calmly looked into her eyes. "My Lady I have no right to break in without a Valid reason however there was a reason because we have intercepted your messenger." Judging by her aggitation the letter in fact was familiar to her. "Also finding the letter which is no denying was addressed to you gives me right to have you removed from this city and I will not allow you to return in any close future. Lord Elrond is very likely to send his own letter to your King and I assure you he will not be pleased. I do not believe this is a very good time for your realm to have diplomatic scandal with Rivendell."

Glorfindel almost smiled. He admired courage in others even if it was not the best moment for such thoughts. The ambassador continued to glare at him still with defiance. Another in her place could have already cried. "This is a rather grim picture however it might be avoided. It depends on whether you may be able to answer few questions. During your stay in Rivendell you were certainly approached by many of our diplomats and officials however have you met or have any of them approached you in non-formal circumstances. By one of Lord Elrond's councillors perhaps?" Glorfindel prompted.

Lady Sarnatelme did not answer at once. Glorfindel almost crossed his fingers behind his back. She would find out soon that he lied to her and he had no such evidence but he was certain she played a part in the web he was desperate to untie. She was about to answer him when a shrill and hateful voice interrupted them.

"Lord Glorfindel! What a suprise to find you here conspiring with the Mirkwood's ambassador." Altenen showed up and three of his guards followed him but with a large distance between them. "Were you not compromised enough?" He gloated with sarcasm.
Glorfindel clenched his fists unwillingly. "You have swallowed a hallucination mushroom Altenen. Go back where you came from, Melkor's pit most likely." He retorted icily.
Brief anger distorted Cheif's features but he felt too triumphant to keep quiet. "Most excellent My Lord. First a letter with a Mirkwood seal is found in YOUR desk then when Lord Elrond so unwisely allows you to walk away you are immidiately discovered plotting evil against Rivendell with one of Mirkwood's representatives. I will have you arrested and claimed as traitor." He boasted.
The stress of the day came out as a need to kick and punch. Glorfindel never hated anyone more than he did the elf in front of him at that moment. Altenen ruined his game and cut off perhaps the only line that could have helped him. Sarnatelme will never answer him now. Altenen was insulting him farther but he could only hear blood roaring in him. Glorfindel jumped knocking Altenen off his feet with every intention to strangle the elf. Three of Altenen's guard rushed to save their master and a big fight broke out.

[EamaneSilimaure]

My Lady I have no right to break in without a Valid reason however there was a reason because we have intercepted your messenger." Judging by her aggitation the letter in fact was familiar to her. "Also finding the letter which is no denying was addressed to you gives me right to have you removed from this city and I will not allow you to return in any close future. Lord Elrond is very likely to send his own letter to your King and I assure you he will not be pleased. I do not believe this is a very good time for your realm to have diplomatic scandal with Rivendell."

Sarna stared at him. Knowing the game was up, but still trying to take control of her own fate. They hadintercepted her messenger? Then that meant that the king hadnever gotten her letter, and didn't know that she thought this mission would be a hinderance, rather than a help to their cause.

This is a rather grim picture however it might be avoided. It depends on whether you may be able to answer few questions. During your stay in Rivendell you were certainly approached by many of our diplomats and officials however have you met or have any of them approached you in non-formal circumstances. By one of Lord Elrond's councillors perhaps?" Glorfindel prompted.

Sarna's thoughts flew immediately to the Lady Daewen, who had offered her help, with anything. To say that now, while it might give her an out, would ruin any chance she had of doing her job. And perhaps get her arrested. Her thoughts whirled crazily as she looked at her too few options. She finally decided to tell him a limited amount of the truth when they were interrupted.

"Lord Glorfindel! What a suprise to find you here conspiring with the Mirkwood's ambassador." Altenen showed up and three of his guards followed him but with a large distance between them. "Were you not compromised enough?" He gloated with sarcasm.
Glorfindel clenched his fists unwillingly. "You have swallowed a hallucination mushroom Altenen. Go back where you came from, Melkor's pit most likely." He retorted icily.
Brief anger distorted Cheif's features but he felt too triumphant to keep quiet. "Most excellent My Lord. First a letter with a Mirkwood seal is found in YOUR desk then when Lord Elrond so unwisely allows you to walk away you are immidiately discovered plotting evil against Rivendell with one of Mirkwood's representatives. I will have you arrested and claimed as traitor." He boasted.

Sarna stared. It could not be! The Marchwarden of Imladris, blamed for her crime. Arrested... in his own land! She had thought that Lord Elrond was his friend. How could a simple letter, implicating nothing in particular have convinced himof this? She stood frozen for a moment, staring as the guards surrounded Glorfindel. It was really no surprise when he lunged at his accuser. She stepped quickly out of the way, wanting to come to his aid, but know that would only implicate him further.

"What is the meaning of this madness?" she cried out as the fight went on. "Lord Glorfindel, Lord Altenen, please. Stop this at once!" Her voice had the note of command in it. With a careful step sideways, she managed to trip the oncoming guard. As he went crashing to the ground the two remaining guards managed to pull Glorfindel off of Altenen. The Master at Arms, who she recognized as the one to have nearly killed Lord Elrond days before seemed to be breathing, though with difficulty. "Could you please explain this attack to me?" she asked imperiously. She ignored the glare from the guard who was still sitting on the ground.

[Ladypain]

Altenen was quick to recover his arrogance. "Lady ambassador you are well advised to stay away from him." He glared at Glorfindel who was getting handcuffed. "Today Lord Glorfindel was already arrested once for his part in plot against Rivendell but Lord Elrond conditionally allowed to leave to prove himself innocent but I see he has not improved."
Glorfindel wiped with a sleeve a thin trail of blood in the corner of his mouth. "You're despicable." He spat. "You can never perform my job."
"You have no more job." Altenen answered with spite and a grim smiled twisted his lips. "Perhaps long friendship blinded Lord Elrond to your recent machinations but you are traitor and there is finally enough evidence to condemn you even in his eyes." Altenen considered trying to fixed his appearance after the fight but then decided to look like a dirty hero when he runs to Elrond with news. "Let's go." He commanded his soldiers.
Glorfindel avoided looking directly at Sarnatelme. He lied to her and she did likewise. There was duality of guilt and accusation in his eyes.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Lady ambassador you are well advised to stay away from him." He glared at Glorfindel who was getting handcuffed. "Today Lord Glorfindel was already arrested once for his part in plot against Rivendell but Lord Elrond conditionally allowed to leave to prove himself innocent but I see he has not improved."

THe knowledge that the Marchwarden had come directly to her to prove his innocence sent a chill through her, as well as a knife of guilt. This was not right. And yet she could not stop it without implicating herself and jeopardizing her mission.

Glorfindel wiped with a sleeve a thin trail of blood in the corner of his mouth. "You're despicable." He spat. "You can never perform my job."

The light dawned. This creature who now ran security in Rivendell, was in league with the lady Daewen to help her with her mission. And they were imprisoning and innocent and righteous elf. Sarna stared at the now falled Marchwarden. One glance at his eyes and she had to look away. There was accusation there, and she wasn't sure how much longer she could stand it.

"You have no more job." Altenen answered with spite and a grim smiled twisted his lips. "Perhaps long friendship blinded Lord Elrond to your recent machinations but you are traitor and there is finally enough evidence to condemn you even in his eyes." Altenen considered trying to fixed his appearance after the fight but then decided to look like a dirty hero when he runs to Elrond with news. "Let's go."

Sarna watched them go, saying nothing else. But she was sure the eyes of the... former... Marchwarden of Imladris would haunt her for the rest of her life. When the garden was once more peaceful, she hurried back towards her apartments, avoiding the small garden, and a certain bench as she went. She had just recieved a gift. One most foul and through means she would have prefered to avoid, but a gift nonethless. Her toughest obstacle was out of the way now. She buried her guilt and her much dented honor behind the ice around her heart. She would do this... she would see it through to the end. And if she survived, she would leave her post. Service to the king was no longer the honor she thought. She reached her room to find Toron just finishing unpacking their bags.

"Repack them." She ordered. "Lord Glorfindel has just been arrested for our crime. We should be able to leave within two days." She looked at him closely. "Can you get word to our men to be at the rondevue point in two days time?" she asked.

"It will be risky my lady," he said.

"There are guards on our side in Rivendell's ranks," she said softly. "They bear the sigil of Lord Altenen, the Master at Arms. If they are at the gates, you will get through with no trouble."

"It will be done my lady," he said, bowing.

[Laurelin]

Haldir ambled through the center of the city, bored out of his mind. He finally decided that he would make some rounds around the posts surrounding the city, if for no other reason than to entertain himself and to ensure things were...ok. Thoughts of Sarna crept into his mind. There was too much about her that reminded him of other maidens he knew that were in the service of the king as a soldier in Lothlorien. Yet she was an ambassador, he reminded himself, and not a soldier. Though she could be one, he thought as he walked briskly to one of the posts opposite of the gardens.

He walked up and two of the sentries that stood guard bowed to him. He greeted them and asked how things were, if there was anything amiss. One of the sentries told him about Glorfindel's arrest and Haldir was stunned. He thanked the elf for the information. He decided that maybe he should talk to Lord Elrond. Glorfindel could not be a traitor. Haldir thought too highly of him and knew him well enough that it could not be possible. Something was certainly wrong here.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

The Lord of Rivendell was stifled; it was as if the otherwise spacious confines of his office had somehow shrunk,leaving his barely enough room to breathe.Without thinking twice about it, he walked out swiftly, wondering if he should go to Celebrian; perhaps seeing the one whom he loved would somehow ease his foul premonition that threatened to suffocate him.He caught sight of a couple of Glorfindel's men standing by the compound,whispering together.~No doubt, they are discussing Glorfindel's arrest~he thought guiltily.~I shall have to have a word with that fool, Altenen; I never told him to arrest Glorfindel, only escort him to me...~he thought darkly.He was not at all inclined to believe his best friend, the hero of Gondolin whom he had always admired could turn traitor.

[Ladypain]

Altenen was triumphant. Since he could not find a holding cell he locked up the former Marchwarden of Imladris in the basement of his house. Even the bruises and swallen jaw did not dampen his spirit. With a help of his sentries Altenen found out where Lord Elrond was and caught up with him just as elf-lord was leaving. Faking to feel contrary of what he really did Altenen approached Elrond clearly upset. He bowed low not raising his glance to the one he spoke with. "M'Lord I'm afraid I much deliver more troubled news of Lord Glorfindel. As soon as he had left your office he dissappeared but soon I found him in the gardens. He was conspiring with the ambassador of Mirkwood. Initially I thought he might be asking her about the incident with Lorthlorien Princesses however gardens were hardly an appropriate place and it seemed he was threatening the ambassador to keep silent about something he mentioned earlier. When I came out to ask him about it. He attacked me." Altenen finished.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond heard hasty footsteps and turned around swiftly, to find himself face to face with Altenen. The chief of arms seemed battered and there was blood on his face and a few already blackining bruises to boot.Elrond frowned worriedly, as Altenen bowed hastily.

"M'Lord I'm afraid I much deliver more troubled news of Lord Glorfindel. As soon as he had left your office he dissappeared but soon I found him in the gardens. He was conspiring with the ambassador of Mirkwood. Initially I thought he might be asking her about the incident with Lorthlorien Princesses however gardens were hardly an appropriate place and it seemed he was threatening the ambassador to keep silent about something he mentioned earlier. When I came out to ask him about it. He attacked me."

Elrond maintained his face unreadable, though all sorts of conflicting emotions raced rapidly through his mind."What was it exactly you heard, Altenen?"he asked coolly, his voice flat and steady and not revealing his shock."And where is the Marchwarden now?"

Altenen did not reply at once; instead he wiped a little trickle of blood from what seemed like a shattered jaw."Well, my Lord", he said at last, "he seemed to be inquiring the ambassador about the letter-the same letter I brought t o your attention earlier...Form what I gathered, he was accusing her for letting the missive slip away from her and alerting you to his involvement.I confronted him about it right then and there;he attacked me, as you can see, and I had no choice but..." "But what?"Elrond cut him off, his heart sinking a little at Altenen's words.~He is a traitor, then~he thought grimly, ~and I a fool for not seeing it earlier~Altenen blushed, as much as it was visible upon his black and blue face."I...had him arrested, My Lord, and placed under house arrest, since we have no dungeons in Imladris".Altenen hesitated; inwardly, he was relishing the barely discernible hurt apparent in the depths of Elrond's steel grey eyes.The Lord of Rivendell nodded. "Very well...I shall see to this personally; you get to the healing wards, Altenen; see to it that you get our face treated and come to me tomorrow for new orders;someone has to handle security now that we seem to be devoid of a Marchwarden..."his voice trailed off, his thought already to everything that he had to do today.He left Altenen, resuming his way to the guest house; things being what they were, it would seem there would have to be increased security for the ladies, he thought sullenly.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel looked greatly worried, 'I know, we already heard it all from Haldir...And I suppose he was right, as are you; but we can fend for ourselves if need be.Protection around us needn't be so...stringent or so suffocating...'

Legolas half-smiled, glancing briefly at Celebrian, 'I am more than certain you can fend for yourselves, but I would rather not put you in such a situation if I could avoid it.'

[Ladypain]

Celebrian
Celebrian half-smiled at Legolas. "Neither would we want to be put in such situation." She replied.

*******
Glorfindel

Glorfindel paced the basement room, four steps foreward and four back. It was a stone room with a thick wooden door, a cellar where rare wine bottles used to be held. There was no window. He could scream and kick the door all he wanted and no one would hear him.

Altenen! He hated that elf. The fight was not enough to release all negative energy. Glorfindel punched the wall once so hard that droplets of blood appeared on the bruised knuckles. Finally tired of pacing which was probably enough to fall underground if he was not there already Glorfindel sat down on the cold floor. His fingers tangled in golden mane as he stared at the floor. The anger slowly receeded replaced by bitterness. Called a traitor he was the one betrayed. He was forced to break a promice to Eamane to come back. When he was leaving she seemed so upset that he wanted to hug her close, kiss her again and sooth her.

She will be worried, that is until she is told why he was away. Elrond believed he was guilty so what reason will she have not to? She may not be able to look at him again with understanding and a spark of humor playing in her bright hazel eyes. That thought more than anything made him miserable like a descend from the clouds into a ditch.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Ninde had been gone for some time, and Eamane was out of tears. She still felt that cloud of despair, but she didn't have the strength to cry any more. She knew what she had nearly told him now. She had nearly told him she loved him, and now he was imprisoned for... something idiotic, she was sure. Lord Altenen had been the one with the soldiers after all. She went over everything in her mind.

Lord Erestor... he'd looked shocked and dismayed, though determined. That meant he believed the charges, whatever they were. What could make Erestor, sensible and intelligent as he was, believe false charges against Glorfindel? Some trumped up evidence to be sure. She wondered if there was anything she could do to help Glorfindel. What if... what if he was hurt? Ninde had said he'd gone calmly, but if he was faced with true arrest, he would not have. She hugged her arms around her once more before relaxing and reaching for a cloth at the bedside. Carefully she wiped her tears away. If he wasn't arrested, and he did come back, she didn't want him seeing her tear-stained and swollen. She drank her now cold tea, and waited for Ninde, or Glorfindel, to return. The house was much too quiet, but she couldn't have stood any sound either.

"Valar help me," she whispered to the room. "I don't know what's happened, but I know it isn't good. Just give me the strength to get through it. Whatever it is."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

'I am more than certain you can fend for yourselves, but I would rather not put you in such a situation if I could avoid it.'Legolas half smiled at her cousin,as he spoke.Celebrian returned the gesture.

"Neither would we want to be put in such situation."

"And we would not put others in a similar situation, either",Ithildiel continued grimly.

*********************
Elrond

The Lord of Rivendell came to the guest house where the princeses were, almost not knowing how he had got there. his mind was still racing and he knew he had to put his thoughts in order, before going in to address the ladies; he half expected to find Lord Haldir there; he would need to be consulted before tightening the ladies's security even more; he would also need ot be informed of the new developments. Elrond drew in a deep breath, calling upon his inner strength and the power of the hidden ring ever upon his finger;the artefact seemed ot have gone quiet...he hahd had no forewarning of these events from the ever unerring forces that had become his with the commandment of it. He did not think about this now, though; instead, he made his way to the guest house door, driving al lthoughts to the back of his mind; he did not wish to worry Celebrian more than he knew she would get worried as it were. A gentle"come in"responded to his knocking on the door; he recognised Princess Ithildiel's voice and he got the impression it was shaking a little. He pushed the door open; both the ladies were safely indoors, he was relieved to see...and it seemed the Prince of Mirkwood had also come calling.Elrond nodded politely."Good morning, my ladies", he said courteously, casting a worried look at Celebrian who seemed as pale as he hadn't seen her in a few days."My prince..."he addressed Legolas,wondering how he could send him away without being impolite; the last thing he needed was that Mirkwood heard of Glorfindel's arrest...and he had no idea, nor could he enquire without causing a diplomatic incident, as to the prince's own involvement in this.

[Ladypain]

Soft knock interrupted them and Ithildiel bid someone to enter. Celebrian's heart skipped a beat. The vision she missed so much stood before her. "Lord Elrond your visit is most welcome wont you make yourself comfortable?" Celebrian left her seat to take his arm and led him to the sofa where they both could sit down. Heat was rising to her cheeks. "What brings you here?" She asked little nervously. Celebrian glanced at her cousing questionably wondering whether Ithildiel told Legolas anything about her relationship with the Lord of Rivendell.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond
Elrond allowed Celebrian to lead him to a sofa; she seated herself by his side and for a very brief moment,he drifted away from the reason that had brought him here. He caressed her hand gently, before noticing the prince of Mirkwood looking at them oddly. He smiled quietly, turning his eyes away from the vision of beauty sitting by his side.

"I heard about your escapade in the morning", he said, forcing his voice to sound normal."I came over to make sure you were all right; it is dangerous to venture outside the city walls, even with escort these days, my lady", he said calmly.

***************************
Ithildiel

Ithildiel had fully expected Haldir to have returned when she heard the knock on the door; instead, the Lord of Rivendell came in, his eyes darkened with worry.~He has heard of our picnic, I'm sure Glorfindel has told him all about it~she sighed inwardly, as her cousin beamed at him. Legolas eyed the both of them, slightly surprised.Ithildiel touched his arm lightly. ~I think I should have otld him something~she thought, a little guiltily, resolving to do so as soon as they got some time alone together.In the meantime, however, she made a faint nod of refusal to Celebrian's inquisitive gaze, to let her know Legolas knew nothing.The Lord of Rivendell seemed greatly troubled, though;Ithildiel wondered what the matter was and why he hesitated to speak.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian sighed lightly seing the negative response. Nonetheless she was happy to be near Elrond stealing cautious glances at him. She felt burning intimacy in sitting so close together but unable to show their feelings. Celebrian willed her thoughts to the unspoken worry. "Thank you for your concern. We are trully sorry to have caused everyone worries with that unfortunate picnic plan. Perhaps we should have planned the same thing inside the city walls and in company of our host with whom no one would dispute our safety." She smiled feeling a little bold.

[Charmander]

Celebrian half-smiled, breaking out of her thoughts, 'Neither would we want to be put in such situation.'

Ithildiel added, 'And we would not put others in a similar situation, either.'

Before Legolas could chime in again a knock came at the door, Ithildiel absently saying, 'Come in.'

Lord Elrond entered, acknowledging the princess first, 'Good morning, my ladies, my prince...'

Legolas did not take his eyes of the Lord of Rivendale. He was clearly performing the same task as the prince; ensuring the safety of the princesses. It was, of course, his responsibility to ensure their safety. Princess Celebrian led Lord Elrond into the room inquiring after why he had come to visit. Legolas sighed inaudibly. After everything he had implied and insinuated between himself and the princess, he was surprised to see her be so polite. He turned his attention back to Ithildiel, seeing her also watching her cousin. He followed their conversation slightly, feeling awkward being in the presence of the Lord of Rivendale. He wished for some escape from this situation, looking pleadingly at Ithildiel.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

Ithildiel glanced over at Legolas; he seemed uncomfortable in Lord Elrond's presence, now more than ever.He stole an almost pleading glance towards her.Ithildiel nodded discreetly."Celebrian", she said softly,"My Lord Elrond...I'll be right back; I shall escort Prince Legolas outside..."she said shyly."I shall be right back", she added, seeing Lord Elrond's eyes darken with concern.

************************
Elrond

"Thank you for your concern. We are trully sorry to have caused everyone worries with that unfortunate picnic plan. Perhaps we should have planned the same thing inside the city walls and in company of our host with whom no one would dispute our safety."

Elrond's smile seemed a little more easy now; he smiled at Celebrian tenderly, but did not get the chance to reply, as the Lady Ithildiel stepped in.

"Celebrian", she said softly,"My Lord Elrond...I'll be right back; I shall escort Prince Legolas outside..."she said shyly."I shall be right back"

Elrond looked at her and Legolas; the Prince of Mirkwood seemed a little more uncomfortable than before and Elrond wondered if he was privy to his father's plans...and worse yet, if he already knew those plans had been foiled."I would appreciate it if you came back at once, my lady", he addressed Ithildiel amiably, keeping his tone cool and with no signs something was amiss,"I need to have a word with your cousin and you".Ithildiel seemed surprised at his words, but nodded hesitantly, then turned and left, followed closely by Legolas.Elrond turned to face Celebrian again, who was looking at him inquisitively.

[Ladypain]

When Ithildiel left with the Prince Celebrian kissed his cheek. "What's wrong?" She pleaded. Several days ago she would have beleived the stern and fully controlled expresson but she quickly learned to find the pain and worry hidden in the guarded features.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond took her hands into his own and kissed them, before speaking."You'll know soon enough, meleth", he said quietrly, knowing she had seen through his facade of coolness and into the deep worry lingering beneath."There has been an...incident that sets both you and your cousin at risk; an incident that, I am sad to say, seems to implicate one of my most trusted advisors, as well".

[EamaneSilimaure]

If Ninde didn't return soon, she was going to go mad. She knew it, accepted it, and waited some more. She was clutching the blankets so hard that her knuckles were white. She heard the front door open.

"Ninde? Is that you?" Eamane called. For a desperate moment, she thought Glorfindel was going to answer. Instead, Ninde came into the room. She looked shocked and tired. "What did you find out?" Eamane asked hoarsely.

"Lord Glorfindel..." She swallowed. "He's been arrested for treason my lady." Ninde watched her mistress carefully.

Eamane took the news like a blow. She seemed to collapse back onto the pillows. Staring at the ceiling, she spoke. "That's impossible. Glorfindel could never... There must be some mistake." Stunned eyes, more gray than green searched the face of her maid. "It's some cruel joke, surely."

"No my lady," Ninde said softly. "It's all over the city. He's under house arrest."

Eamane's eyes drifted closed. "I knew something was wrong. Something has been wrong for weeks, but I thought it was just the cloud of the coming war."

"You think he's done it?" Ninde asked, incredulous.

"Of course not," Eamane snapped. "But... Elrond does. Which means that the evidence is grave indeed."

[Ladypain]

Her heart shrank at those words, the hurt of which was unmistakable. "Who would betray you so to be the cause of such grief?" She said in disbelief. Celebrian cupped his cheeks framing the noble features with her hands. She would not allow him to look away from her nor could she allow him to be locked away alone with the pain.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Who would betray you so to be the cause of such grief?"

Elrond took her hands in his own once more, kissing them gently."I shal not say more, meleth nin,and mar your heart with pain as well; I shall tell you all after I have spoken with him", he said, caressing her silken hair."I would have never thought..I never expected this from him..."he said numbly.

[Ladypain]

"I love you in both joy and sorrow and if I share your joy then I shall share your sorrow as well. You would hurt me more by shutting me out than by telling me what ails you so." The heat of kisses on her hands travelled through her veins to her chest where all her emotions were melting into overwhelming tenderness. "Never think that you will protect me with silence. I will see your hurts through all ruses and thus will be scared for you because I fear a pain with unknown source and I will fear that such pain might take you from me."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Nothing can ever have the power to take me away from you", Elrond said quietly, placing a kiss upon her neck, as he spoke."And I do not wish to make you worry and ache with this worry...you are right, though, silence may not come between us, it not protection, but had the power to drive us apart..."He paused."I will never be parted from you, if I have the means to prevent it", he said, sealing her words with a kiss."I just never thought..."he paused again, unwilling to mouth the hated words."It appears Glorfindel has been conspiring with Mirkwood ambassadors with regard to you and the Lady Ithildiel; I do not know what they were planning, but..."his voice broke off and he looked away from her.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian immidiately recalled their unfortunate picnic and Lady Sarnatelme's invitation but Glorfindel was their protector, he told them to return to the city. Elrond surely was speaking of other ambassadors. Conflicting emotions battled within her just as she felt them in Elrond as well. Perhaps the picnic interfered with Marchwarden's other plans? She was uncertain anymore. She didn't believe for a moment that Elrond would place such heavy blame on someone unless there were serious reasons and evidence to do so. He could hardly be mistaking and because the accused was a lifetime friend made it all more bitter. Any question would have been cruel and so she said nothing of it. Celebrian enfolded Elrond's waist with her arms and pulled him back to her. " Saes, don't look away from me." She whispered. She hugged him close and stroke his back in soothing circles.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel caught his glance and turned to her cousin, 'Celebrian, my Lord Elrond...I'll be right back; I shall escort Prince Legolas outside...I shall be right back.'

Legolas offered his arm to Ithildiel, but before they made it to the doorway Lord Elrond broke in, 'I would appreciate it if you came back at once, my lady. I need to have a word with your cousin and you.'

Legolas turned from Lord Elrond as he spoke and furrowed his brows, what could Elrond need to say that he could not say in front of him? He wondered if it had to do with the impending negotiations, although the prince should play an integral part of. Unless Lord Elrond had chosen sides. He was acting more than polite with Princess Celebrian.

Legolas led Ithildiel out of the guest house. He stopped abruptly, 'That was a very strange thing for Lord Elrond to say, it almost seemed like he did not want you to be alone with me. I wonder if he has chosen sides in these negotiations talks, and Mirkwood does not have such fair maidens to catch the eye of the Lord of Rivendale.' He flashed her a half-smile as he stepped closer to her, being cognisant of the eyes of the Lorien guards.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond

Celebrian said nothing about the direness of the situaton he had described to her, but Elrond saw her face furrow with care, as she pulled him close."I do not know what to believe", Elrond sighed, holding her close as well. "But I fear that, in light of recent events, I shall have to burden you with extra security, meleth nin..."he added reluctantly.

************************
Ithildiel

'That was a very strange thing for Lord Elrond to say, it almost seemed like he did not want you to be alone with me. I wonder if he has chosen sides in these negotiations talks, and Mirkwood does not have such fair maidens to catch the eye of the Lord of Rivendale.'

Ithildiel frowned a little at his words."The Lord of Rivendell has chosen sides, my love", she said, keeping her voice low so that the sentries would not hear, though they kept a discrete distance from them, "but not in the way you think; and he is far too fair and objective to allow this to affect the negotiations".Legolas frowned a little in his turn; Ithildiel smiled softly before continuing."Do you think you are the only one in love?"she teased him gently.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel spoke quietly, 'The Lord of Rivendell has chosen sides, my love, but not in the way you think; and he is far too fair and objective to allow this to affect the negotiations.'

Legolas frowned and tried to hide his dismay as she continued, 'Do you think you are the only one in love?'

He half-smiled at her words, but the implications of Lord Elrond's favour were far-reaching. He said quietly, 'I would not have noticed anyone else's happiness save yours, meleth nin.' He knew this information was of great importance to his father and the ambassadors, not to mention Sarna. He smiled, 'You do not need to tell me to keep this secret, I think I understand their situation well, though I must confess, I am rather concerned for our realms. The negotiator falling in love with one side is still distressing.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I would not have noticed anyone else's happiness save yours, meleth nin.'

Ithildiel smiled softly at his words."And the same goes for me, but I would have thought they were pretty obvious".She was about to ask him to keep what she had told him a secret;she knew full well the implication such news would have if they were known abroad.Legolas seemed to have guessed her thoughts, as he spoke.

'You do not need to tell me to keep this secret, I think I understand their situation well, though I must confess, I am rather concerned for our realms. The negotiator falling in love with one side is still distressing.'

Ithildiel nodded."I know what you mean, meleth nin, but I know Lord Elrond will do his best for the well-being of all our realms; he does not wish for a war, and I believe his love for Celebrian will only strengthen his desire for peace". She paused, hoping he would not take offence to her next words."Though there are quite a few who might consider these feelings as treason...and that, in their eyes, would be a crime the both of us are guilty of, as well", she sighed.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel replied, 'I know what you mean, meleth nin, but I know Lord Elrond will do his best for the well-being of all our realms; he does not wish for a war, and I believe his love for Celebrian will only strengthen his desire for peace. Though there are quite a few who might consider these feelings as treason...and that, in their eyes, would be a crime the both of us are guilty of, as well.'

Legolas was feeling the eyes of the Lorien guards. He smiled, 'I think this crime would be sanctioned by any governing body. I can only trust your judgment with respect to your cousin and the Lord of Rivendale. I am still ill at ease after his actions, though, in this light, they make more sense. I had best not keep you too long, I fear the guards may intervene. Na-den pedim ad.'

[until we speak again]

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I think this crime would be sanctioned by any governing body. I can only trust your judgment with respect to your cousin and the Lord of Rivendale.

Ithildiel smiled; the sentries were looking at the two of them, so long in conversation, a little more carefully now."Ah, but it is such a beautiful crime", she said softly, "and there are none who can resist it".Legolas smiled and she continued."And I know my cousin well, you can indeed trust that; I, for my prt, trust that Lord Elrond is worthy of her and she of him and hope it will all turn out for the best..."

I am still ill at ease after his actions, though, in this light, they make more sense. I had best not keep you too long, I fear the guards may intervene. Na-den pedim ad.'

Ithildiel nodded. Legolas, it seemed, had not yet forgotten Lord Elrond's behaviour at that disastrous council not too long ago.The guards looked uneasily at each other and Ithildiel guessed they were trying to decide whether to interrupt them."I shall see you later, my Prince", she said formally, though casting him a tender look, before going back inside.

[Ladypain]

I do not know what to believe", Elrond sighed, holding her close as well. "But I fear that, in light of recent events, I shall have to burden you with extra security, meleth nin..."he added reluctantly.

Celebrian kissed his neck and nuzzled the ebony hair strands. "You are fair and honorable. No matter how difficult the decision is I trust you with all my heart to chose a right one." She rested her chin on his shoulder and her hands continued sliding down his back finding any tense muscle knots through the robes which she massaged.
"How do you plan to increase our security?" Celebrian asked worried. "We are surrounded by guards as it is. I am surprised I have not found any of them yet under my bed or in a closet.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"You are fair and honorable. No matter how difficult the decision is I trust you with all my heart to chose a right one."

"It seems I chose to have my best friend placed under house arrest", Elrond sighed, surrendering himself to Celebrian's comforting caresses."I am not sure it is such an honourable decision to make, concerning one who has been a dear friend and cnfidant for so many years..."

How do you plan to increase our security?" Celebrian asked worried. "We are surrounded by guards as it is. I am surprised I have not found any of them yet under my bed or in a closet.

Elrond pushed her away slowly, seeking to capture her gaze."I thought you and your cousin might agree to move into my private compound where security is more stringent..."he suggested quietly."I expect you'll be safer there".

[Ladypain]

"It seems I chose to have my best friend placed under house arrest. I am not sure it is such an honourable decision to make, concerning one who has been a dear friend and cnfidant for so many years..."

Elrond relaxed into her caress as Celebrian poured all her healing energy into the touch. They both heard soft footfalls and Elrond withdrew from her.

"I thought you and your cousin might agree to move into my private compound where security is more stringent..."he suggested quietly."I expect you'll be safer there".

"What kind of compound?" She asked little nervously. Celebrian turned around to watch her cousin enter the room. Ithildiel probably heard the last two phrases.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

Ithildiel took her time returning to the sitting room, wanting to leave her cousin and lord Elrond as much time alone as possible.On entering, however, she heard them talking.

."I expect you'll be safer there".

"What kind of compound?"

"What?"she asked, unable to contain herself."What's going on?"

****************
Elrond

"What kind of compound?"

"What?"

Princess Ithildiel's exclamation made the Lord of Rivendell look up at her."Welcome back, my lady", he said cordially, keeping his hands upon Celebrian's."I was just telling your cousin that, due to some unfortunate circumstances that have arisen and seem to threaten your security more than we had ever anticipated, it would be for the best for both of you to move to my own compound, where security is much tighter and I daresay, your stay shall be much more pleasureable".

[Ladypain]

The warmth rose to her cheeks. "You will have us staying in a wing near your quarters?" She asked. "Are you certain we will not bother to anyone?" Celebrian have found no strength to argue against it especially when a small voice whispered that she will be able to see him more often. She knew Ithildiel is far less pleased with such arrangement.

Celebrian was tempted to question why exactly they suddenly were in more danger. Did Glorfindel's arrest have to do anything with their current situation? However she dared not ask dimly understanding Elrond did not wish to explain this to her. He seemed determined to relocate them. "When would you wish us to move?" She asked.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

."Welcome back, my lady", he said cordially, keeping his hands upon Celebrian's."I was just telling your cousin that, due to some unfortunate circumstances that have arisen and seem to threaten your security more than we had ever anticipated, it would be for the best for both of you to move to my own compound, where security is much tighter and I daresay, your stay shall be much more pleasureable".

"I see", Ithildiel said, looking at her cousin; Celebrian did not seem at all put off with the perspective, Ithildiel mused.

"You will have us staying in a wing near your quarters?" She asked. "Are you certain we will not bother to anyone?" "When would you wish us to move?" She asked.

"Might I ask what prompted this decision, my Lord?"Ithildiel asked calmly, not revealing any of the thoughts surging in her mind.

**********************
Elrond

Elrond smiled at Celebrian's reaction;if she were in the compound they could see much more of each other, he thought tenderly. Princess Ithildiel, though...she did not seem too pleased.

"Your cousin shall explain everything as soon as we have arranged for your moving, my lady", he said appeasingly. "I should like this to take place as soon as possible", he smiled softly at Celebrian, " but first, we should notify Lord Haldir; I'm sure he would like to know...I'll have one of your sentries go and look for him", he added and stood, not waiting for an answer, though he was reluctant to leave Celebrian's side.He stepped outside briskly, sending a sentry to look for the Marchwarden of Lorien, then came back inside."You are in peril, I believe, my lady", he said, meeting Ithildiel's surprised but cool look,"trust me when I tell you so".

[Laurelin]

Haldir had just finished checking another post on the edges Imladris and started to walk back into the main part of the city. One of the cities sentries came up to him in a hurry. "Lord Haldir" the sentry said bowing, "My Lord Elrond wishes to see you immediately." Haldir was worried that something happened to the Princesses. "The Princesses..." he started. "They are fine, my lord, please follow me" the sentry replied, leading the way back to the Princesses quarters.

Haldir knocked on the door once he arrived. His heart still felt like it was in his throat, even though the sentry suggested they were fine. He waited as patiently as he could, hearing footsteps come to the door.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian looked at her cousin pleadingly. "We should trust him." She said softly when Elrond left them to summon Haldir. The Lord of Rivendell soon returned resuming his place beside her. "You are in peril, I believe, my lady", he said, meeting Ithildiel's surprised but cool look,"trust me when I tell you so".
"I understand." Celebrian muttered. "but it would ease my disposition to know more of the peril we are in."
The was a knock and Celebrian left to open the door. To no surprise it was Haldir. "Please come in, mellon nin." She said to him. Celebrian led Haldir into the room but this time she didn't dare sit near Elrond. He saw them near too many times as it is. Instead she cradled in a small armchair across and slightly to the right from the Lord of Rivendell.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel/Elrond

"Very well, Cele", Ithildiel sighed, more worried than she was willing to admit."I wonder what the matter is, though; he said you knew..."Celebrian never got the chance to answer, as Lord Elrond came back.

"You are in peril, I believe, my lady", he said, meeting Ithildiel's surprised but cool look,"trust me when I tell you so".Celebrian replied instead of Ithildiel:

"I understand." Celebrian muttered. "but it would ease my disposition to know more of the peril we are in."

Elrond nodded, but had no timeto explain; there was a knock on the door and Haldir came in, apparently distraught."You sent for me, my lord?"he asked, glancing over at the princesses."I did, Lord Haldir; I need you to take care of a most pressing matter", Elrond said coolly, also stealing a glance at Celebrian, sitting a litte way from him now.

[Laurelin]

"Please come in, mellon nin."

Haldir bowed and walked in. "Thank you, milady" he said cordially, seeing that the Princesses were in fact ok. He bowed in turn to Lady Ithildiel. Haldir breathed a silent sigh of relief and turned to the Lord of Imladris. "You sent for me, my lord?" he asked, glancing over at the princesses.

"I did, Lord Haldir; I need you to take care of a most pressing matter"

Haldir's eyes darkened as he looked at Lord Elrond. He looked weary and very troubled. "What would you have me do, My Lord...name it."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"What would you have me do, My Lord...name it."

Elrond nodded. "The princesse and I have decided that it would be safer for them to be moved to my privte compound...for reasons of added security, in light of recent events.It goes without saying that all your party is welcome there", he added, then paused."Do you think you could arrange for this move of quarters to be made today?"

[Charmander]

The eyes of the guards must have also caught the attention of Ithildiel. She took a step back, smiling warmly at him, 'I shall see you later, my Prince,' before turning and going back into the guest house.

Legolas waited for the door to shut before turning quickly himself and heading back to his guest house. He stopped short of the door wondering still about the picnic. It sat uneasily, though the princesses and Sarna seemed to have the same story. He wanted to speak again with Saran about it, but wondered how much she would tell him. Despite being the captain of Mirkwood's armies, he knew her allegiance was to his father. Although she had sworn to protect him and his princess, that did not mean she would make him privy to her plans.

He did not feel like arguing with her. She would not inform him of anything, regardless of his best efforts. He slowly opened the door to his guest house and sat down heavily on a sofa in the sitting room. He had not slept well the night before and let his mind drift and his eyes shut for a short period of time.

[Laurelin]

"The princesses and I have decided that it would be safer for them to be moved to my privte compound...for reasons of added security, in light of recent events.It goes without saying that all your party is welcome there", he added, then paused."Do you think you could arrange for this move of quarters to be made today?"

"Thank you for the invitation for our entire party, but I would not want to impose. We shall remain outside your compound, both for security and privacy. I will see to the arrangements immediately, my lord. Shall I send word to you when things are completed?" Haldir asked, wondering how to ask about Glorfindel next. "May I ask ...why the sudden concern, My Lord?"

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Thank you for the invitation for our entire party, but I would not want to impose. We shall remain outside your compound, both for security and privacy. I will see to the arrangements immediately, my lord. Shall I send word to you when things are completed?"

"I can assure you in will be no imposition, Lord Haldir", Elrond said calmly."I think it would be for the best if your party and yourself were in close proximity to the ladies; trust security will be server better thus, as for privacy...the main compound in big enough to pause no hindrance to that, I can assure you.I shall send a few servants to assist in packing the Princesses' possessions", he continued, casting a soft glance at Celebrian again."You can find me in my office when you are finished, I have already instructed my household to prepare accomodations for all of you;I hope they will be to your liking".

"May I ask ...why the sudden concern, My Lord?"

Elrond was not entirely caught unawares by the question; he had been expecting it."There have been some rather...worrisome news, Lord Haldir, but,if you'll allow me, I'll explain everything later; I am still in the process of finding out the details myself.I shall have to leave you now, I'm afraid; speaking of investigating details...I have to get to that".He rose slowly and went over to Celebrian, kissing her hand gently, before doing the same with Ithildiel."I shall see you later, my ladies...Lord Haldir",he said politely, before walking out swiftly. He had to talk to Glorfindel, he thought grimly, wishing he could avoid it.

[Ladypain]

"Good day Lord Elrond." Celebrian told him. She wished it was so but hardly hoped for his day to be pleasent. Celebrian deliberately was looking away as he left swiftly.
"We should start packing." Celebrian abandoned her chair and went into her room. There she could see the garden path and the half-elf walking away from them to the Last Homely House. She watched him until he dissappeared.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

Ithildiel remainedsilent throughout Lord Elrond's exchange with Haldir; something was wrong, even more so than the Lord of Rivendell was showing, she knew it well. Having them move into his own home...there was more to that than mere security, she thought grimly.

"We should start packing."

Celebrian's voice made her start; before she or Haldir had the chance to reply, Celebrian had gone into her room.Ithildiel turned to Haldir."Do you know what's going on?"she asked coolly."Why is the Lord of Rivendell suddenly so worried about our safety?"

*************************
Elrond

Elrond made his way through the quieter paths of Rivendell in haste, getting to Glorfindel's house .A few setnries, that he immediately recognised as belonging to Altenen's troops, stood guard and hastened to present themselves as soon as they saw the Lord approaching.Elrond waved them at ease."Is the Marchwarden in?"he aske,d though he already knew the answer."Aye, sire, Lord Altenen has instructed that he is held inside...in the basement, for added safety", one of the elves said; Elrond cringed at Altenen's behaviour; he had apparently taken advantage of the situation to take what vengeance he could on Glorfindel. "I shall go to talk to him", Elrond said, and added,"alone", seeing the guards were already preparing to go with him.Neither of them protested, though it was clear they wanted to.Elrond went inisde and downstairs at what he knew to be a small basement, his heart sinking a bit lower with each step he took.He unlocked the door slowly and stepped in, into almost complete darkness; he could barely discern a figure, sitting on the floor."Gorlfindel?" he asked, his voice unreadable."I have come to talk to you...but we had best go upstairs, where it's brighter", he added, in dismay at the close confines of the musty cellar.

[Ladypain]

In the darkness with all senses sharpened Glorfindel heard someone's approach long before the door creaked open. He however indifferently remained on the floor raising his hand against the dim light that none the less was bright after complete darkness. He recognised Elrond by voice before the eyes could adjust.

Gorlfindel?" he asked, his voice unreadable."I have come to talk to you...but we had best go upstairs, where it's brighter

Glorfindel complied rising to his feet. He doubted a living creature could stay locked in the cellar longer then few days without running out of breathing air. He walked past Elrond cautiously looking around. "What, no Altenen's guards?" He muttered sarcastically. "Why deprive them of opportunity to blame something else on me like planning to murder Rivendell Lord who kindly let me out of the cellar while he is not looking."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"What, no Altenen's guards?" He muttered sarcastically. "Why deprive them of opportunity to blame something else on me like planning to murder Rivendell Lord who kindly let me out of the cellar while he is not looking."

Elrond made no comment, as he stepped aside for Glorfindel to go out first.He was happy to stay in the dark for a few moments more, so that his friend would not see the look upon his face."Would you actually consider doing that?"he asked, keeping his voice flat and cool.Glorfindel frowned, Elrond saw it plainly in the dim light as they went upstairs again."I know you would not...or rather I would wish to believe it", the Lord of Rivendell said sadly."The accusations weighing you are heavy, Glorfindel; Altenen jumped the gun in arresting you", he added, seeing the murderous look on the Marchwarden's eyes; his heart sank a little more in observing how grim and weary he looked, but he continued; "but given what he knew and the evidence against you, he had no other course of action to take; what were you discussing with the Mirkwood ambasador?and what ambassador was that?I'd like a word with him as well".

[Ladypain]

Would you actually consider doing that?

Glorfindel almost shuddred at the tone in which the comment was made. Although he was angry he would never hurt the person he had sworn to protect. It stabbed him more deeply than he showed.

Altenen jumped the gun in arresting you but given what he knew and the evidence against you, he had no other course of action to take; what were you discussing with the Mirkwood ambasador?and what ambassador was that?I'd like a word with him as well.

"Why don't you ask Altenen who seems to know everything. You believe every word he tells you." He asked tiredly.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Why don't you ask Altenen who seems to know everything. You believe every word he tells you."

Elrond tried to hide how much his friend's tone had hurt him.~I guess I deserve that~he said, doubt gnawing at his thoughts."If I believed every word Altenen said, I would not be here, would I?You know me better than this", he said quietly."And I'm not asking him, but you; will you answer me?"

[Ladypain]

"Asking me or Altenen will not change the fact that I was speaking with Lady Sarnatelme." Glorfindel avoided using the title, ambassador. "Unlike Altenen thinks I was investigating not planning treason." He replied flatly. "I doubt she will tell you anything useful after she witnessed my arrest." Glorfindel leaned against the wall wearily. "Elrond, protect our Lorien guests. Altenen will not be able to, I just know it."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Asking me or Altenen will not change the fact that I was speaking with Lady Sarnatelme." "Unlike Altenen thinks I was investigating not planning treason."

"I shall go and have a word with her, then; do you have reason to believe she might be involved in this?"Elrond asked; he was still puzzled by this twist of event.Glorfindel seemed able to explain everything satisfactorily, but that came as no surprise; whether he was really a traitor or an innocent, as he claimed to be, Elrond knew the Marchwarden of Rivendell would have thought everything out quite carefully, especially if he indeed were a traitor. As much as it hurt him to admit the possibility of the latter being right, he thought grimly.

"I doubt she will tell you anything useful after she witnessed my arrest."

"I'll talk to her regardless", said Elrond suavely. "I do have other means than mere words to learn what I need", he added quietly, knowing Glorfindel would catch the hint; he might have used the same means of him, but not until all other ways of learning the truth were exhausted.

"Elrond, protect our Lorien guests. Altenen will not be able to, I just know it."

Elrond looked at him, more puzzled than ever; if he was planning, as all evidence pointed, to kidnapping or otherwise harming the princesses, why was he pleading with Elrond to protect them?Was it part of some well-planned ruse...?"I have ensured the ladies are well-protected", he said calmly,"you can rest assured of that; I would never trust anyone but....you with their safety, but now...I only have myself to appoint this task to", he sighed."I shall go to see Lady Sarnatelme as soon as possible;meanwhile, I fear, and given the charges brought against you, I shall have to maintain you under house arrest until I get to the bottom of this", he said, not at all pleased with having to say that to the elf who had been and still was the best and most trusted friend he ever had.

[Ladypain]

"So this is your decision. I will not fight my battle." Glorfindel stated bitterly. The chance to prove his innocence was stolen from him by the one he despised the most and Elrond just deprived him of possibility to try again. He could not reconcile that the outcome of his life will be put into the hands of others meanwhile he will be stuck in a room unable to act. To feel powerless and defenseless was almost unbearable. Any elven warrior would have prefered death.

Glorfindel wondered whether Elrond thought how lonely the half-elf chose to become in the heavy circumstances by locking his friend away. "Go ahead, speak with Lady Sarnatelme. She knows something we do not. It is in her power to help us."

~I cannot help you.~ He thought swallowing a lump in his throat. This was another failure of his. Glorfindel turned away dejectedly. "You need help. You may not be able to get to the botton of this alone before it's too late."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"So this is your decision. I will not fight my battle."

The bitterness in Glorfindel's voice could not be overlooked;Elrond felt it echo somewhere within his own heart and he almost yielded, before pulling himself together again."I fear this might be a battle I have to give, mellon nin", he said quietly, an uneasy smile upon his lips."A battle of politics and the balances are extremely delicate;with the suspicion of a cospiracy falling upon you, your intervention might do more harm than good". He paused, to check Glorfindel's reaction; the Marchwarden seemed more than a little dismayed, but Elrond would expect no less, given the situation; this was no way for a warrior to be treated, even less when it came to someone of his calibre and competence."It will be a battle that I will be forced to give alone, but I do have one advantage;I know my diplomacy well", Elrond continued, jesting bitterly.

"Go ahead, speak with Lady Sarnatelme. She knows something we do not. It is in her power to help us."

"What is it you think she knows?"Elrond asked, seeking to divert his friend, as well as try to get him to divulge some information;with all the incriminating events against him, the idea of Glorfindel as a traitor refused to settle in his mind, as if some instinct told him otherwise; still, there was no room for mistakes here, he thought despodently.~I can only hope I get to the bottom of this before anything else happens~, the thought came uncalled for in his mind.Glorfindel spoke again, as if he had read the Lord's thoughts.

"You need help. You may not be able to get to the botton of this alone before it's too late."

Elrond smiled sourly."I'll have all the help I need; I am not without skills, you know this..in fact, you're among the few who know..."he broke off, then changed the subject."I want you to remain here and give me your word you will not try to escape or get out; such an action can get you killed and I would not have that", Elrond said, his eyes darkening.

[Ladypain]

I want you to remain here and give me your word you will not try to escape or get out; such an action can get you killed and I would not have that", Elrond said, his eyes darkening.

"There is no reason for me to flee. There is enough evidence as it is without having to add escape to it." He was not going to help dig a pit for himself to whoever put blame on him.

Elrond hezitated that much Glorfindel could tell. At least he was certain that someone with fair judgement and decency was still looking for the truth and the case is not abandoned for Altenen to decide. "Find Beliwedat and tell him to find out the name of everyone who entered my home in my absence." He sighed.

[Laurelin]

"I can assure you in will be no imposition, Lord Haldir", Elrond said calmly."I think it would be for the best if your party and yourself were in close proximity to the ladies; trust security will be server better thus, as for privacy...the main compound in big enough to pause no hindrance to that, I can assure you.I shall send a few servants to assist in packing the Princesses' possessions."You can find me in my office when you are finished, I have already instructed my household to prepare accomodations for all of you;I hope they will be to your liking".

Haldir weighed his words and decided that Lord Elrond meant for them to stay regardless of any protesting on his part. "Thank you, Lord Elrond, I'm sure the accomodations will be more than adequate for us. If you think it is better served that we stay in the compound then I will see to it that we move in as well." He watched as Elrond seemed to become grim at his question.

"There have been some rather...worrisome news, Lord Haldir, but,if you'll allow me, I'll explain everything later; I am still in the process of finding out the details myself.I shall have to leave you now, I'm afraid; speaking of investigating details...I have to get to that". I shall see you later, my ladies...Lord Haldir"

"Lord Elrond" Haldir bowed. "I hope you find the answers you seek, my lord" he told him as he walked out of the door. Haldir saw Elrond hesitate for a moment to give him a nod before he went. He wondered if the rumor of Glorfindel was true. That would cause every bit of the stress that he saw in Elronds eyes, he thought grimly. Never in an age could Glorifindel betray Lord Elrond, Haldir thought in silence. No, he decided. He would not believe it true, he thought sadly.

"We should start packing."

Haldir nodded distractedly at Celebrian. "The servants will be here momentarily, I'm sure...they will handle everything, though I know you'll want to direct them to handle certain items of yours with care. Perhaps you could leave instructions for them so I can escort you both into Lord Elronds compound?" Haldir asked quietly.

"Do you know what's going on?"she asked coolly."Why is the Lord of Rivendell suddenly so worried about our safety?"

Haldir eyed her, somewhat nervously. She apparently hadn't heard and it was not his place to tell her, he decided. "My lady, I know not. I've only heard rumors and most of which I'm sure are untrue. Come.... let's get to Lord Elrond's compound" he said trying to get them moving and change the topic.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond

There is no reason for me to flee. There is enough evidence as it is without having to add escape to it."

"I'm glad to hear that", Elrond said, a faint,though mirthless, smile upon his face."I would not want you to risk your life needlessly, mellon nin;I'll get to the bottom of this, I promise you as much".

"Find Beliwedat and tell him to find out the name of everyone who entered my home in my absence."

Elrond nodded. "I was thinking of doing exactly that, and as soon as possible", he said."Is there anything you might be needing?"he asked calmly,noticing, for the first time, the scratches on his face and hands, apparently from the struggle against Altenen's men.~I shall have a not-so-nice chat with that oaf for his behaviour, especially if he proves wrong~thought Elrond coolly."I should probably take a look at those scratches", he added grimly.

***********************
Ithildiel

"My lady, I know not. I've only heard rumors and most of which I'm sure are untrue. Come.... let's get to Lord Elrond's compound

"Your tone tells me that you know more than you're willing to share", Ithildiel said, keeping her voie down, so that Celebrian, strill in her room would not hear."You never speak to either of us this formally when we're alone, mellon nin;what is it you have heard?"she asked worriedly, not saying anything about moving.She wondered how she could notify Legolas of this changeof accomodations...

[Ladypain]

I should probably take a look at those scratches", he added grimly.

Glorfindel flinched and stepped away. "That will not be necessary." He said harsher than intended.

Momentarily he considered asking Elrond to speak with Eamane. It would be better if she learned of what happened from a friend than from some gossiper with no doubt sharp tongue. Although it was possible she would stay home with a broken ancle and no one tells her. The later she learns about it the less time she will spend thinking of him as traitor, that is if he is ever proven not guilty. Glorfindel thought grimly. "You have other things to attend to." He said.

[Laurelin]

"Your tone tells me that you know more than you're willing to share", Ithildiel said, keeping her voice down, so that Celebrian, still in her room would not hear."You never speak to either of us this formally when we're alone, mellon nin;what is it you have heard?"

Haldir knew he could not lie to her for the pain he felt at the rumor's possibility ate at him, but he could not tell her either. "I cannot tell you that which I am uncertain to be true" he said with saddness in his eyes. "Please...may we go now?" he asked her, hearing Celebrian enter the room again.

[Ladypain]

I cannot tell you that which I am uncertain to be true" he said with saddness in his eyes. "Please...may we go now?" he asked her, hearing Celebrian enter the room again.

She raised an eyebrow questionably. "Where to Haldir? I thought your room might be somewhere close to ours and you are coming with us. Don't you want to know where you live?"

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

"I cannot tell you that which I am uncertain to be true" he said with saddness in his eyes. "Please...may we go now?"

The sorrow in Haldir's eyes puzzled her greatly, but she had no time to ask again, as Celebrian returned.

"Where to Haldir? I thought your room might be somewhere close to ours and you are coming with us. Don't you want to know where you live?"

Ithildiel nodded."We might go on ahead and let the servants Lord Elrond spoke of to tend to our things; or should we wait for them?"

***********************
Elrond

"That will not be necessary." He said harsher than intended.
"You have other things to attend to."

"I do, indeed", Elrond said grimly, purposely ignoring Glorfindel's harsh tone."I shall, however send someone over to tend to you; that is not a point to be argued", he added, as Glorfindel opened his mouth to protest."I shall be back later to see how you're doing; hopefully, I shall have good news by then", he said reassuringly, as he made for the door.

His ribs were stinging in protest when he got to Eamane's house, a few minutes later; he would need to ask her to send one of her assistants to the Marchwarden, he thought, as he knocked on the door; then, he would go over to talk to Lady Sarnatelme.In the meantime, he had caught Beliwedat on his way to Eamane's home; the lady ambassador was to be watched until he got to her, at least.He knocked on the healer's door sharply.

[Laurelin]

"Where to Haldir? I thought your room might be somewhere close to ours and you are coming with us. Don't you want to know where you live?"

Haldir nodded to the questions. "To your new quarters in Lord Elrond's compound and yes, I hear my room is very near to yours and Lady Ithildiel's."

."We might go on ahead and let the servants Lord Elrond spoke of to tend to our things; or should we wait for them?"

"I think that is a good idea. Your things will be moved quite quickly, I'm sure" he said, turning to open the door. "Shall we?" he gestured to the door for the Princesses to follow.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Ninde had returned to the kitchen and Eamane had begun trying to read another book, but she couldn't concentrate. Finally giving it up as useless, she put the book down and went back to staring out the window. Glorfindel imprisoned. She just couldn't get her mind around it. Vaguely, she heard a knock on the door and then another. Thinking Ninde was busy, or possibly gone, she called, "Come in!"

A few moments later, Elrond himself came into the room. For a moment, Eamane was speechless. Taking a deep breath, she spoke. "You know he was searched, and taken away from my home in handcuffs." Her voice was soft, and intense. Her eyes searched his face. She saw the pain, the suspicion, and the worry etched into his very skin. She felt confusion and anger flare in her own eyes. "Why?" she asked. "Why do this to your best friend?" She waited for an explanation, for him to tell her that Ninde was mistaken, that Glorfindel was just busy, and that was why he hadn't returned. She waited for him to tell her that the cloud of danger she felt over the city was nothing more than fear of the threatening war.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

"I think that is a good idea. Your things will be moved quite quickly, I'm sure" he said, turning to open the door. "Shall we?"

Ithildiel glanced at him, then Celebrian, wondering if she had noticed Haldir's apparent distress,even beneath the mask of coolness he had employed.Her cousin seemed worried too;Ithildiel frowned.~Am I the only one in the dark here?~she thought, a little irked."Indeed, let us go", she said quietly, stepping outside first, into the cool air;the room behind her seemed oddly stifled with worry...and fear.

********************
Elrond

Elrond walkedinto Eamane's room, quietly dismissing Ninde, making sure the healer did not hear him do so.On walking into the room, he caught the nervous concern in Eamane's eyes; for a moment, she looked at him, stricken speechless.Elrond drew in a deep breath, starting to speak, when she spoke, her voice oddly soft, though the tension pulsed in its depths.

"You know he was searched, and taken away from my home in handcuffs."

There was no reason to pretend he did not know whoit was she spoke of."Altenen and Erestor were only sent to escort him to me, not arrest him",he said quietly."I think Altenen got a little overzealous, but I shall be dealing with him later", he added grimly.

"Why?" she asked. "Why do this to your best friend?"

Her eyes were begging him for an explanation;Elrond smiled sadly at her, as he seated himself in an amrchair across from her bed, barely stifling a slight moan; ever since the news this morning,his almost forgtotten injury had started giving him painful jabs, as if trying to remind him who it was he owed the fact that he was still alive now to...as if he needed a reminder, Elrond thought bitterly.

"Glorfindel", he started, seeing the threat of tears in Eamane's eyes, "has indeed been arrested, but not when you saw him taken from here...Altenen arrested him a while after I last talked to him; he is suspected for treason, Eamane, and there is strong evidence against him...evidence I am not allowed to ignore, be he my best friend or not", he sighed, his own voice filled with pain.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Glorfindel", he started, seeing the threat of tears in Eamane's eyes, "has indeed been arrested, but not when you saw him taken from here...Altenen arrested him a while after I last talked to him; he is suspected for treason, Eamane, and there is strong evidence against him...evidence I am not allowed to ignore, be he my best friend or not", he sighed, his own voice filled with pain.

"What evidence?" she asked softly. "Who brought it to your attention? You have to take that into account Elrond. Glorfindel has enemies, as we all do." Part of her wanted to take his pain away, but another part thought he deserved it for believing nonsense.

She shook her head a little. "Was he hurt?" she asked, looking away so he wouldn't see the anger, and the pain in hers.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"What evidence?" she asked softly. "Who brought it to your attention? You have to take that into account Elrond. Glorfindel has enemies, as we all do."

Elrond shook his head."do you not think I am well aware of that ?'he asked quietly."A letter was found in his office, implicating him in some Mirkwood conspiracy I am not yet sure what is about;the letter was authentic, Eamane", he added, seeing her ready to interrupt him,"I know the royal seal of Mirkwood well enough to tel lyou that; and then he was arrested having a private conversation with a Mirkwood ambassador.Altenen apprehended him, against my better judgement...which is cause enough for me to be wary, even if I did not already doubt Glorfindel could turn traitor", he said grimly."But I could not ignore the implications..."

"Was he hurt?"

"Some cuts and bruises from his fight with Altenen and his sentries, but nothing serious; he would not let me tend to them", Elrond replied at once.Eamane had averted her eyes from him and he knew she must be furious at him for treating Glorfindel thus~More than one friends will be lost with this~he thought sadly, the throbbing on his side growing stronger.

[EamaneSilimaure]

."But I could not ignore the implications..."

"Of course not, but arresting him..." She trailed off, picturing Glorfindel, feeling betrayed and alone.

"Some cuts and bruises from his fight with Altenen and his sentries, but nothing serious; he would not let me tend to them", Elrond replied at once

Eamane turned back to Elrond, hearing something more than confusion in his voice. She was about to ask if he blamed Glorfindel for not wanting him to tend the scratches, when she got a good look at Elrond. His mouth was tight with pain, other than emotional.

"You idiot," she said, not unkindly. "With Glorfindel... out of commission at the moment, you can't go having a relapse." She forced a smile. "If you can do so without hurting yourself more, I want you to bring me my medicine bag. I'll treat you," and her voice was firm, "then I will go treat Glorfindel." Her eyes dared him to contradict her. "The swelling in my foot it gone. It doesn't even ache anymore."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Of course not, but arresting him..."

"If word of this got out into the city before I had the chance to find out whether any of it is true or not, Glorfindel's life might be forfeit;if there is a real traitor out there, he went into a lot of trouble to set all this up;and if Glorfindel is involved, indeed", he added, ignoring Eamane's furious glance, "he is of no use to those behind this scheme; they'll want him dead...he is safer under house arrest, with his own men watching him..."his voice trailed off, as he tried to breathe more slowly. Eamane noticed.

"You idiot," she said, not unkindly. "With Glorfindel... out of commission at the moment, you can't go having a relapse."

"I'm fine", Elrond said through gritted teeth, knowing Eamane would never be convinced.

She forced a smile. "If you can do so without hurting yourself more, I want you to bring me my medicine bag. I'll treat you,"

Elrond obeyed, not in the mood to start a new argument, as he brought her medicine bag to her. Eamane glanced at him coolly.

"then I will go treat Glorfindel." Her eyes dared him to contradict her. "The swelling in my foot it gone. It doesn't even ache anymore."She opened her bag determinatively,showing she was not going to debate the point."Have it your way", Elrond said, his voice scarcely more than a whisper;he found it hard to talk, as his ribs were starting to burn."I am not going to rest, though; I cannot afford to", he added calmly.

[Laurelin]

Indeed, let us go"
Haldir led the way to Elrond's compound, leaving the Princesses to sort their things as the servants carried things in. "If you do not need anything else, I'm going to tend to my own effects and ensure everyone in our party is taken care of..." Haldir told them, bowing as he turned to go.

He walked down the corridor and around a corner to his new room. The servants had already moved his things, which was really quite simple since he did not have much with him to begin with. He always traveled light and was not much on trinkets and such. He went inside and inspected his new surroundings. Very nice, he thought silently. His eyes moved across the room looking at all the art on the walls and noticing the fine furniture when something caught his eye. It was Sarna's hair ribbon. He smiled at it and walked over to the nightstand to pick it up as he sat on the edge of his bed. He rubbed it gently between his fingers, remarking about the silky texture to himself. He sat it back down and smiled once more, finally getting to his feet to check on the others of his party.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane

"Have it your way", Elrond said, his voice scarcely more than a whisper;he found it hard to talk, as his ribs were starting to burn."I am not going to rest, though; I cannot afford to", he added calmly.

"Elrond," Eamane said, "Shut up." She reached and felt for his bandage through his tunic. Thankfully no wetness met her fingers, so he hadn't pulled any stiches. "You've strained yourself too much is all." She looked at him. "I'm not sending you to rest, or even to move slowly, because I think this should be dealt with as quickly as possible. I am however, going to give you something for pain, and inflammation." She handed him a small bottle. "I know you probably have some of this yourself, but here it is anyway. Three drops in water or weak tea, and the pain should ease." She listened to his breath hitching. She pulled a packet of leaves from her bag. Handing a leaf to him, she added, "Chew this. It'll help your breathing."

She searched his face again. "Do you know where I can get a walking stick?
*******************************
Sarna

She had to get out. The room was stifling her. Toron had been gone for some time and she was alone with her thoughts. She jumped up from her chair, and grabbing her cloak, left the apartment, locking the door behind her. Evening was coming, and the air was cool. She pulled up her hood and headedfor the gardens. She had to walk, had to move. Now that there was no hope of turning back, and there was a real chance she would succeed, she felt restless. Hearing voices she ducked into an alcove, not wishing to speak with anyone.

"Well that was pointless," said one. Sentries by their walk.

"Not to mention insulting." said the other. "We're there for protection, not carrying luggage."

"Why do you suppose the Princesses were moved to Elrond's compound anyway?" asked the first.

"How should I know? Maybe one of them saw a mouse and wanted to be further into the city." the other answered. "Anyway, its the Master at Arms' troops who have to worry about it now." They rounded a corner and were gone.

Sarna stared at the path. They'd been moved. And Altenen was in charge of their security. She could do it. She could have them now. No. tomorrow would be better. Toron would be back, and she would have time to plan. Tomorrow. She smiled for the first time that day. Soon she would be done. She started walking again. Planning a kidnapping.

[Laurelin]

Haldir finished checking on the party and headed outdoors for some fresh air and to think about the rumors about Glorfindel. He wondered what kind of politics would occur between Mirkwood and Lothlorien as well. Haldir rounded a corner and saw Sarna. She was smiling. Haldir smiled back at her, happy to see her thus. "My Lady, it is good to see you smiling" he said to her politely, unsure of who may yet be in earshot of them.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond," Eamane said, "Shut up."

Elrond frowned, but she continued.

"You've strained yourself too much is all." She looked at him. "I'm not sending you to rest, or even to move slowly, because I think this should be dealt with as quickly as possible. I am however, going to give you something for pain, and inflammation."

Elrond nodded abstractedly, still preoccupied with everything that had happened on this day.He took the vial Eamane handed him mechanically.

"I know you probably have some of this yourself, but here it is anyway. Three drops in water or weak tea, and the pain should ease."

"Fine", he said, his mind slipping to everything that he needed to do to ensure he got some answers.Eamane cast him a curious look, but spoke again as he cautiously tried a deep breath.

"Chew this. It'll help your breathing."

Elrond managed a slow deep breath and waved the leaf away."There's no need for that..."he said quietly, as the pain subsided enough for him to be able to breathe, albeit slowly.

"Do you know where I can get a walking stick?

Elrond looked at her inquisitively."There is no way you are walking, mellon nin; the swelling may have subsuded, but it would take very little for inflammation if you do not rest your foot; I shall arrange for the wheeled chair to be brought for you again, if you wish";he paused waiting for her reaction.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane

."There is no way you are walking, mellon nin; the swelling may have subsuded, but it would take very little for inflammation if you do not rest your foot; I shall arrange for the wheeled chair to be brought for you again, if you wish";he paused waiting for her reaction.

Eamane looked at him wryly. "There are many steps up to Glorfindel's home Elrond." She shook her head. "It would be foolish, not to mention extraordinarily difficult to get the chair, with me in it up there." She put the packet of leaves away. "Check it. I examined it myself earlier. There's still some tenderness, but I believe it's mended. I'll take crutches if you deem it necessary. My foot never need actually touch the ground. But I am going to him." She didn't think he would truly try to stop her, but she could not rest until she saw for herself that Glorfindel was okay.
************************
Sarna

She was walking along, smiling when the hair on the back of her neck lifted. Someone was following her. She changed nothing in her manner or expression, but every muscles was tense. Under her cloak, she reached for her belt knife.Then, seeing a break in the bushes, she released it. Making use of the twilight, she rounded the corner and disappeared into the bushes.

Her cloak, while not the blending gray of Lothlorien, was still good for hiding in the wilderness. Her hood hid the light blonde of her hair from anyone passing. She glanced back to see one of Lord Glorfindel's troops pass her hiding place. He was looking for something, but he didn't follow her. Sarna turned back, grinning. Moving silently, she went through the brush to until she came to another path. It was a quiet one. Looking around carefully she stepped out onto it. She felt more herself than she had in days. She continued her walk, now free of her tail. She smiled again.

She was nearing a corner when Haldir stepped around it. "My Lady, it is good to see you smiling" he said to her politely, unsure of who may yet be in earshot of them.

Sarna's smile bloomed brighter. "I have reason to smile my lord," she said, keeping the formality for just a moment. Then, she couldn't stop herself. She took the last few steps separating them and moved into his arms. All too soon, she would be leaving, and he would no longer even think of her with love. But right now, she was happy, and she was here. "I am glad you seem as prone to solitary walks as I," she murmured into his neck, kissing it.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

There are many steps up to Glorfindel's home Elrond." She shook her head. "It would be foolish, not to mention extraordinarily difficult to get the chair, with me in it up there.""Check it. I examined it myself earlier. There's still some tenderness, but I believe it's mended. I'll take crutches if you deem it necessary. My foot never need actually touch the ground. But I am going to him."

Elrond shifted to touch Eamane's ankle carefully, examining it; it seemed the swelling had indeed subsided...he nodded quietly, knowing there was no stopping her and feeling too worn out himself to even attempt the argument."Crutches it will be", he said after a few moments, "I think it will be better for your foot;I'll have Ninde get them for you and I'll have one of your assistants escort you there", he paused."I know Glorfindel will be greatly relieved to see you...and he does need to be tended to", he smiled uneasily.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Elrond examined her ankle gently. Eamane awaited his verdict. ."Crutches it will be", he said after a few moments, "I think it will be better for your foot;I'll have Ninde get them for you and I'll have one of your assistants escort you there", he paused."I know Glorfindel will be greatly relieved to see you...and he does need to be tended to", he smiled uneasily.

"I'm glad we're agreed," Eamane said. "Let's get started. You send Ninde for the crutches. I'll get ready." She closed her medicine bag tightly and sat up straighter.

[Laurelin]

"I have reason to smile my lord. I am glad you seem as prone to solitary walks as I," she murmured into his neck, kissing it.

Haldir felt her rush into his arms and kiss his neck, sending shivers down his back. Does she not know what this does to me, he pondered, pressing her closer to him. He smiled broadly for it was possibly the first time he'd ever seen her this happy. Haldir glanced around quickly and decided to take the opportunity to get even with her advances. He drew her in close and kissed her passionately, his hands caressing her back, one hand slipping up to her neck at the hair line caused her to shiver. For a moment, all his cares were forgotten and he was happy. He pulled back slightly to look into her eyes and grinned at her before speaking. "What good news has you happy, melleth?" he asked her tenderly.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"I'm glad we're agreed," Eamane said. "Let's get started. You send Ninde for the crutches. I'll get ready."

Elrond saw nbo point in contesting the matter further; he knew Eamane well enough to know she could not rest till she knew Glorfindel was well.~Or as well as can be~he thought dismally, as the healer tried to sit up with the intention of getting out of bed."Stay where you are", Elrond said at once, putting his thoughts aside, "I'll have Ninde help you with getting ready, before she goes off for the crutches...better yet, she can help you while I go to your wards and send one of your helpers along with them".He stood up, going to summon Ninde. The elf lady gave him a questioning look as she dashed into Eamane's room, but Elrond did not respond to it; instead, he followed her bakc into the bedroom."I'll go and summon your assistants, then go back to my work", he said calmly, not going into details; his next order of business was finding Sarna...and Beliwedat who was to be acting as her shadow.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane

."Stay where you are", Elrond said at once, putting his thoughts aside, "I'll have Ninde help you with getting ready, before she goes off for the crutches...better yet, she can help you while I go to your wards and send one of your helpers along with them".

Eamane sat back again, relieved. Idly she touched her hair. But shaking her head she looked back at the door. Glorfindel wouldn't care how she looked. He'd been arrested.

."I'll go and summon your assistants, then go back to my work", he said calmly,

"Thank you mellon nin," Eamane said. "Thank you." Then he was gone.
**************************
Sarna

Haldir pulled her as close as she could be, kissing her with a passion he had not displayed before. As his hands swept up her back beneath her cloak she felt shivers run through all of her. Oh how she loved him. He pulled back, putting just an inch of space between them and grinned into her eyes. She grinned back.

"What good news has you happy, melleth?" he asked her tenderly.

She blinked but her smile didn't falter. "Someone who I thought too stubborn to see reason is listening to me," she said. She caressed his cheek. "And I am with you."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond

"Thank you mellon nin," Eamane said. "Thank you."

Elrond nodded, trying to smile, as he left Eamane alone; he passed into the healing wards close to her home,ignoring the shy looks many of the assistants in there gave him; it seemed rumours had flown about at their usual speed, he thought gravely, as he sought out Eamane's assistants; both of the young elves jumped at his appearance and both wanted to go tend to the healer.Elrond at last dismissed one of them, sending him to tend to Eamane's patients, before the other left for the lady's house, carrying some herbs and a pair of crutches.Elrond left the wards hastily, to avoid any questions. Beliwedat was nowhere to be found...Elrond assumed he was still followng the Lady Sarnatelme and had nothing worthwhile to report.He decided to head for the lady's quarters, hoping to find her there; if not, he was going to have a word with Altenen, regarding what he had seen, he thought not too pleased.

*********************
Ithildiel

Haldir left them, as soon as he had escorted them to their new quarters and Ithildiel found herself looking around the vast rooms they had been given. most of the windows overlooked the atrium they had taken their breakfast when they had frist arrived in Rivendell; the gardens seemed more breathtaking than ever.Ithildiel turned to look at her cousin, her heart oddly heavy and filled with worry despite the lovely surroundings."So, what did Lord Elrond tell you about his reasons for moving us here?"she asked quietly.

[Laurelin]

"Someone who I thought too stubborn to see reason is listening to me," she said. She caressed his cheek. "And I am with you."

Haldir leaned into her touch, savoring the feeling of it. He brought his lips to hers once again, kissing her lightly this time and then smiling again. "And my heart is glad that I am with you. All my cares seem lessened right now. Those in my charge are protected, more now than ever it would seem" he admitted to her, feeling much better about them being in the compound than out running about without his knowledge. "Though I still have much to do, my task is lessened somewhat" he explained, truly thinking that. He brushed a stray blonde strand of hair from her eyes. The wind, it seemed, had picked up a bit out of the west. Haldir looked to the sky, wondering if a storm was on the horizon, but turned back to her and smiled again. "So what of your plans this evening? Will you have any free time?" he asked, knowing full well he would have to see her outside of the compound if she would even have the time for such. He doubted that even the Prince of Mirkwood would be allowed in let alone an Ambassador. Then again he knew little of politics, other than taking orders from those he served. The way Sarna looked at him brought him out of his musings. He felt lost in her eyes, wondering what secrets seemed to lurk there unspoken.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane

Eamane was getting ready to stand up on the crutches with Ninde watching anxiously when Orecalo came in. "My lady, Lord Elrond said I was to assist you. Surely you aren't walking yet."

"On the contrary," Eamane said, standing carefully. "You and I are going to Lord Glorfindel's house. He has need of me."

"I could go my lady," Orecalo began.

"You are going, but so am I," Eamane cut him off. "You can carry my bag." She smiled at him. "It will be like old times, when that was all I trusted you to do." She sighed. "And now you are running my wards."

"You can't expect yourself to work with a broken ankle my lady," Ninde said.

"Of course not," Eamane said. "And I don't. Let's go Orecalo."

With the help of the crutches she hopped out of the room, and out of her house. A few minutes later, they were going up the infamous steps to Glorfindel's home. Orecalo kept nervously eyeing those crutches, but Eamane had a determined gleam in her eyes. "We'll have to see about adding padding to these crutches," she muttered once. When they arrived at the building, they were met by sentries.

"I'm sorry my lady, but Lord Glorfindel is under house arrest." One said.

"I know that," she said crossly. "That's why I'm here. He's a few injuries that need tending. Lord Elrond sent me."

"But my lady," he began.

"It's not like he's going anywhere sir. Nor am I likely to help him go anywhere." She gestured with one crutch.

"Of course," the sentry said, letting her and Orecalo pass.

Eamane imagined he would have much to add to the rumors now, the Chief Healer going to see the imprisoned traitor. She sighed and knocked as propriety demanded, though the sentries looked at her oddly. "It is still his house," she muttered angrily.
***************************
Sarna

"And my heart is glad that I am with you. All my cares seem lessened right now. Those in my charge are protected, more now than ever it would seem" he admitted to her, feeling much better about them being in the compound than out running about without his knowledge.

She felt another stab of guilt. His charges were in fact, in more danger than ever before... from her.

"Though I still have much to do, my task is lessened somewhat" he explained, truly thinking that.

She kept her smile, though with an effort. If he only knew... He wouldn't hold her this way. He brushed her hair away from her face and looked towards the sky. She took that moment to blink the tears from her eyes. He smiled at her, not knowing the sorrow she felt even as she smiled back.

"So what of your plans this evening? Will you have any free time?"

She had countless things to do and plans to make... but she needed little sleep, and could do nothing until Toron's return anyway. "I have no plans this evening," she said softly, her voice slightly husky from her swallowed tears. "My time is my own tonight." Tomorrow was soon enough to lose all hope of love. Right now, she had it. And though it would make the loss all the more painful, the joy of these few moments was worth it. Someday she would look back and remember. Perhaps he would too, and not with hate. She caressed his cheek again and pulled his face to hers. She kissed him, soft and slow, as if time itself had stopped for them.

[Ladypain]

After Elrond's leave Glorfindel noticed the disarray in his home no doubt done by Altenen. The weapons were gone. Glorfindel was certain this was another deliberate insult barely disguised as duty. He found a meditation candle and tried to clear his mind looking at the dull in evening light flame certain that more anger against the Chief will suffocate him unless something was done with it. Glorfindel was almost successful in calming his nerves when he heard a knock. He stared at the door in astonishment like he had never seen it before. Who would bother with curtesy when they were visiting the arrested? Another more irritable knock demanded answer. Glorfindel extinguished the candle rising to his feet. "Come in." He called staying inside the room away from the door.

Storm of emotions swirled inside him at the sight of Eamane and one of her assistants. Lady Healer certainly did not look overjoyed. She knew but why did she come? It was hard to believe Elrond would send her here because he refused to have few scrathes treated. His feet suddenly felt like they were filled with cast-iron and he couldn't move even to motion her to a seat. "Lady Eamane you should be anywhere but here." He spoke unkindly although the statement was mostly guided by concern. She should not be in his home forced to climb all those stairs with an injury. "You should not have come."

*******
Celebrian
So, what did Lord Elrond tell you about his reasons for moving us here?"she asked quietly

"I'm afraid I cannot add more to what you have heard already. We will have to trust him and Haldir to tell us more later." The serenity of the gardens did not match her emotions and Celebrian stepped back into the rooms. She looked at her cousin dismally. "Ithildiel what shall we do? I no longer trust my reason nor my heart. We have done nothing of what we were told to do before we came to Rivendell. I feel we are forced into a whirlpool of events that moves us against our will. It is overpowering. I can no longer tell the right from the wrong.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Lady Eamane you should be anywhere but here." He spoke unkindly although the statement was mostly guided by concern. She should not be in his home forced to climb all those stairs with an injury. "You should not have come."

Eamane looked him over, pushing aside the hurt she felt at his tone. He had a right to be upset. Anger sparked in his eyes, but she caught the faint scent of the candle he favored for meditation. "I am exactly where I need to be," she replied. She saw the bruises on his face and arms darkening his skin, the scratches there that were still dotted with dried blood. Her heart ached for him, for the betrayal he must feel. She hopped further into the room and Orecalo closed the door behind them. "Orecalo, the kitchen is through there," she pointed, "I need warm water and clean cloths. Second drawer to the left of the sink." Her assistant looked at her a moment before walking to the kitchen.

Eamane hobbled over to the couch and sat down. She looked at Glorfindel, who had kept silent, watching her. "Sit down please," she said, searching his face. "I'm under orders to stay off my foot when I can." She tried to smile at him, though there wasn't much to smile about right now. "How are you feeling, besides the obvious?" she asked, trying to keep the overwhelming concern she felt from sounding in her voice.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

I'm afraid I cannot add more to what you have heard already. We will have to trust him and Haldir to tell us more later."

Ithildiel sighed with exasperation."Something is definitely wrong, if we're suddenly moved into Lord Elrond's personal compound and told it is for extra security", she said, not masking her dismaly at the lack of explanation."Unless it is related to our near-picnic in the morning..."she broke off, as Celebrian sighed.

"Ithildiel what shall we do? I no longer trust my reason nor my heart. We have done nothing of what we were told to do before we came to Rivendell. I feel we are forced into a whirlpool of events that moves us against our will. It is overpowering. I can no longer tell the right from the wrong.

Ithildiel felt her breath catch in her throat."It is overwhelming, isn't it?"she said quietly."I have felt the same sonce we came here, from that very night in the welcome feast; and it seems to be getting more complex, mellon nin...but I see no way out of it, either;I feel, if anything, that we're getting even more tangled in the web of events with each passing moment and it worries me",she continued, her voice little more than a whisper,as dusk started to set over Imladris.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

I am exactly where I need to be.
Eamane entered the room dragging assistant behind her.
Orecalo, the kitchen is through there," she pointed, "I need warm water and clean cloths. Second drawer to the left of the sink.
Under different circumstances Glorfindel would have smiled at the uncrumling resolve. Eamane was caring and gentle however behind it lay steel deternimation and she would not faulter when she thougth something nedded to be done. She decided to stay and he could not force her out.

Sit down please," she said, searching his face. "I'm under orders to stay off my foot when I can."
Glorfindel willed his feet to move well aware that she will chase him around the house until he submits to every scratch investigation. He sat down near her tiredly, now that he payed attention to it feeling every burning bruise. The Chief was not the best tactician but he certainly knew how to fight.
How are you feeling, besides the obvious?
Her smile was strained. He thought her healer intuition was telling her to put him at ease but it was probably impossible in a company of someone she considered a traitor. He searched her for a sign of fear. Finding some hurt more than all the wounds he received in his life. He could not trouble her more with his pain. "I'm fine." He stated flatly. The emotinal wall which prevented anyone, even Elrond from reading him came up easily with the long years of practice. He will let her do her job as quickly as possible so she could leave.

*******
Celebrian

I have felt the same sonce we came here, from that very night in the welcome feast; and it seems to be getting more complex, mellon nin...but I see no way out of it, either;I feel, if anything, that we're getting even more tangled in the web of events with each passing moment and it worries me

Both Ithildiel and Celebrian halted the conversation. The Imladris elves came in bringing their luggage. The grim submission to the task betrayed not too flattering thoughts towards the maidens. Celebrian ignored them wordlessly so the sentries simply left their things in the middle of the room and made their exit. Celebrian pulled out a flat, rectangular box made of crafted wood from the pile and two blades shimmered in the dusk. She shethed one of the knives and tied it to her body underneath the dress folds. Despite what everyone thought she would not allow herself to be manipulated so easily.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Celebrian did not reply to her words, as a group of rather displeased sentries came in, carrying their things. Both maidens kept silent till they had left them and then Celebrian went to rummage for the flat laquered wooden box that held a pair of wooden knives...the both of which, though supposedly ceremonial only, were carefully sharpened.Her cousin took one of them and tied it to her body, carefully conealing it within her drsss folds."You know..."Ithildiel started recalling the slim long dagger that lay hidden within the hemming of her own gown, "Haldir has always told us that bearing a weapon is ever a risk; by carrying it, you should always be ready to use it...and in using it, you might end up having the blood of another upon your hands.Are you sure about this, mellon nin?"

[EamaneSilimaure]

Glorfindel moved slowly, as if reluctant to sit near her. "I'm fine." He stated flatly.

The blankness of his voice cut her to the quick, but she hid that hurt as well. "So I see," she said dryly. He had cut her off from himself. She felt a wall between them. One that had never been there before. It made her want to cry, but she didn't. Unflinchingly she took his arm to look at the scratches, and the deepening bruises. With gentle fingers she tested each one. "None of these are bad enough for bandages," she said matter-of-factly. "But these bruises are deep. I'll clean you up a bit, and then I've a salve for the bruises."

She looked up at his face again. She wanted to tell him that she didn't believe this nonsense, that Elrond was even now working to disprove it. But Orecalo came back with the warm water and cloths. Swallowing the lump in her throat, Eamane looked at her assistant. "Thank you," she said. "Now go wait outside." He would have protested, but she gave him her best chief Healer look and he left.

Briskly, she went to work on the scratches. "Let me know if I hurt you," she said softly.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

Let me know if I hurt you," she said softly.
"You will not hurt me." Glorfindel answered blankly. She would not do so intentionally he was certain. At least physically she could not. What would she say if she knew how much he was hurting inside? His skin tingled everywhere the healer's hand touched. He avoided any contact that would keep her in his home. ~Leave.~ Glorfindel prayed. ~Before I do something foolish like cry.~

********
Celebrian

Haldir has always told us that bearing a weapon is ever a risk; by carrying it, you should always be ready to use it...and in using it, you might end up having the blood of another upon your hands.Are you sure about this, mellon nin?

Celebrian regarded her cousin curiously. Ithildiel also carried a weapon. "Today when we were outside the gates we didn't know who was approaching us. I carried no weapons. It was a mistake to leave them in the box. Those could have being orcs and someone could have gotten killed because I could not defend myself. What good our lessons with Haldir are if I am not willing to put them to use? I do not wish to spill blood but I'm afraid no one can live without ever hurting another, especially when death and war are ever so near." She glanced at the remining knife and then closed the box with a premonition settling within her. Ithildiel was right. Taking the weapon was almost like summoning the trouble and she would be froced to use it sooner or later. "This will be my last resort."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Today when we were outside the gates we didn't know who was approaching us. I carried no weapons. It was a mistake to leave them in the box. Those could have being orcs and someone could have gotten killed because I could not defend myself. What good our lessons with Haldir are if I am not willing to put them to use? I do not wish to spill blood but I'm afraid no one can live without ever hurting another, especially when death and war are ever so near

Ithildiel nodded, as Celebrian secured the remaining knife into its box and hid it."I just hope you're careful, Cele;having a weapon on you is always a temptation to use it and to do so rashly could hurt someone else as well as yourself..."she said quietly.

"This will be my last resort."

Ithildiel went over to her cousin and wrapped her arm around her shoulders."As it should be...I only hope neither of us will have to use these kinds of means, though, mellon nin", she sighed.

[Laurelin]

Haldir saw a glimmer of sadness in her eyes for a fleeting moment. That moment was not long by any measure and it was replaced quickly with a smile once more. He smiled back at her

"I have no plans this evening," she said softly, her voice slightly husky from her swallowed tears. "My time is my own tonight."

Her voice was sensuous as she spoke. Haldir smiled and blushed at her response as he was worried she might know what he was about to ask her. He looked away shyly, trying to gather the nerve to ask her. He looked into her eyes once more, caressing her face. "Stay with me?" he asked her softly.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane

You will not hurt me." Glorfindel answered blankly.

Eamane didn't respond at first. When the scratches on both his arms had been cleaned, she turned her attention to his face. This forced him to look at her, something he hadn't really done since his 'greeting' at the door. His eyes were ice and it chilled her heart. "Tilt your head," she said. There was a rather nasty scratch on his cheek, as well as a bruise. Her face was close to his, as she made sure no bones were broken. Luckily, there were none. As always, being this close to him made her heart quicken. She sat back and looked at him. It was as if he were here, and yet, not.

"Glorfindel," she started, but she didn't know how to continue. She picked up the pot of salve she had set out. She wanted to break the silence, to tell him all, but his blank expression made her throat close. Instead, she started putting the salve on his bruises. She had to rub it in, and she knew it hurt, but he made not a sound.
*************************
Sarna

Haldir pulled back from the kiss, smiling at her. She couldn't be sure in the twilight, but she thought he blushed. It made her smile. He looked away and she wondered at his thoughts. When he looked back at her, there was a shy pleading in his eyes. He caressed her face.

"Stay with me?" he asked her softly.

Her heart stopped, she was certain of it. Then is roared to life again, sending the blood pounding in her ears. Sarna stared at him, wanting to say yes, knowing that it was wrong... would make her betrayal even more evil. He knew so little about her. But she loved him. She wanted this memory when all else was lost. She pressed even closer to him, burying her face in his neck. "Yes," she murmured. "Oh yes." She kissed him there, feeling him tremble. She hoped he wouldn't notice the single tear she let fall.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel... Her tone contained a note of sadness. Glorfindel thought she might say more but she kept quiet cleaning a bruise on his face. He wasn't sure whether he wanted her to leave or to stay. She had the right to be angry with him for having her world overthrown. They were friends for so long and it must have being hard lose trust for someone she long have known. He supressed an urge to get on his knees and beg for her forgiveness, guilty of nothing and yet he felt he wronged her somehow. "Are you done?" He asked when she stopped the ministrations rubbing some sticky cream on the bruise.

******
Celebrian

As it should be...I only hope neither of us will have to use these kinds of means, though, mellon nin", she sighed.

The usual optimism abandoned her and Celebrian leaned into the family hug seeking some comfort. As much as she wished to be positive she could not promice that the dagger will not leave it's sheft. "We had a good teacher, one of the best. Remember who gave me these knives?" She smiled at the memory. Haldir's gifts were rare but all highly valued by her. The knives were his gift on her birthday. It was done in full secret from Lord Celeborn.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Are you done?" He asked when she stopped the ministrations rubbing some sticky cream on the bruise.

Eamane did flinch this time. His tone was harsh and mean. It was so unlike him that she stared. His expression was hard and unmoving. But his eyes... They were frozen cold. She felt anger flare, irrational as it was. She had come all this way to help him, and he acted as though he didn't want her here. She seamed her lips and carefully cleaned off her fingers.

"Now I am," she said a bit more sharply than she intended. She looked at his face again. He looked strangely lop-sided with the salve covering a good portion of his cheek. "That will absorb into your skin in the next hour or so. Don't mess with it." She tried for another smile, though temper sizzled in her eyes. "I know how you love green stuff."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

"We had a good teacher, one of the best. Remember who gave me these knives?"

Ithildiel smiled, as she and her cousin sat holding each other, drawing comfort from each other's presence."Of course I do;I still can't believe the Lord and Lady were none the wiser about that...or about the sword Haldir snuck in for me on my birthday", she smiled nostalgically."He did teach us well", her smile got broader,"though I hope...we never have to use all the things he taught us..."

***************
Elrond

Elrond made his way to the Lady Sarnatelme's quarters, ignoring the now familiar pangs of pain across his chest.The Lady was not in, it seemed..and neither was her entourage.Beliwedat stood in the shadows.Elrond saw him beofre the elf even moved."She went out, my lord", the elf said, beofre Elrond even asked."I followed her, but I lost her in the gardens", he continued numbly.Elrond nodded."It's fine;let my know when she returns, I need to talk to her", he said wearily, before leaving, heading back to his own compound.With Glorfindel detained, it would be Altenen patrolling the borders tonight, he recalled not without dismay, so there was no chance he would be able to talk to the Chief at Arms tonight; he decided to return to his quarters; his ribs hurt more than he would ever admit, even to Eamane...and like it or not, he would need to rest.~This day has been naught but a nightmare~he thought, as he went back into his chambers.He would rest a while and then, perhaps, go and see if the princesses were comfortable in their new rooms;his heart warmed up at the thought of spending a little bit of time with Celebrian.

[Ladypain]

Now I am," she said a bit more sharply than she intended. "Good." He answered passively. It mattered little to him whether the substance on his face was green or orange. Glorfindel quickly stood up from his seat and went to the door to get the healer. The guards grabed their weapons as soon as he opened the door. "Orecalo." He called to the younger healer who stood outside. "Lady Eamane needs your assistance." The elf hurried inside shivering at the sharp, commanding tone.

[Laurelin]

Haldir's heart pounded in his chest as he held her, waiting for her to respond. He was sure she could hear it too and he trembled slightly at that thought, feeling embarrassed. He swore he heard her hold her breath for a moment and his heart nearly stopped. Everything was so silent and loud in his ears at the same time.

"Yes," she murmured. "Oh yes."


Haldir would have sighed in relief to her response, but she leaned in and kissed him, the quaking in his knees subsiding. He pulled her close again, kissing her back passionately. He pulled back slightly, taking her hand and leading her slowly the back way to his old quarters which were now abandoned. No one would look for them here, he knew. He turned and looked at her, smiling as he guided her into the his old room. He closed the door behind them and lit a candle. Haldir pulled Sarna to him and kissed her passionately again, his arms wrapped snuggly around her. He slowly untied the ribbons from her long blond hair, letting her hair fall loosely at her shoulders, as he kissed her neck. Her taste on his lips was near intoxicating.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Good." He answered passively

He seemed to be ignoring her completely. She stared as he went to the door, calling Orecalo back. She saw the sentries grab for their weapons. Glorfindel showed no reaction as Orecalo hurried inside. Anger flared in her. He was kicking her out! She didn't even bother standing up.

"I said I was done with your face," she snapped. "Not the rest of you." She motion back to the couch. "Off with the tunic my lord. I want to check your ribs." She glared at him, though part of her was quaking in embarrassment.

((OOC: Sorry, got to go, be back in an hour or so))

[Ladypain]

Despite the wall he created Glorfindel could not prevent a blush from coloring his cheeks. Angry with it as well as Eamane's irritated tone he glared at her defiantly. "This was only a fist fight, nothing more. The kind I participated in thousands of times and I never required a healer's attention afterwards, not then and certainly not now. Accept my word for it that there is nothing wrong with my ribs and there is no reason for you to remain here." He snapped in desperate defense, his resolve was crumbling.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna

He guided her lips to his for another kiss, this one so full of longing and passion that he knees trembled. He broke the kiss and took her hand. Smiling, his eyes full of love, he guided her through the gardens to the barracks where he must have been living. Sarna smiled back, cheeks flushed and eyes sparkling brightly. She stopped to kiss him before they went in, and again in the hallway. By the time they reached his room, they were both breathing hard. She was laughing as she unclasped her cloak and let it fall to the floor. He pulled her into his arms once more. She felt his hands in her hair as he kissed her. When her hair was loose and flowing down her back, as he obviously wanted it to be, his hand swept down the length of it, caressing her back. Her own hands tangled in his hair, keeping him from pulling away. He was kissing her neck and driving her mad.

It wasn't until his hand was resting on her left hip, and his thumb grazed the bandage on her side through her gown that she came back to herself. Panic shot through her. If he saw that... She broke the kiss and hid her face in his neck. "Just a minute," she said huskily. He stroked her back soothingly.She looked up and around the room. Seeing a door to another room, she pulled back from him. She smiled at him, so full of love she could hardly stand it. "I'll be right back," she said. "Don't go anywhere melindo." She released him reluctantly, slipping through that door.

As fast as she could, she undid her gown, thanking the Valar that she had changed out of her soldier garb earlier. She wouldn't have been able to explain that. She removed the bandage completely, checking the wound. It was healed closed, and though a little tender, there was only a small scar. Lady Eamane truly had a gift. If she protested the light, then perhaps he wouldn't notice. It was a risk she was willing to take. She refastened her gown and returned to him.

"Forgive me," she murmured, "I..." she smiled at him. "I love you Haldir." Her voice did not tremble, and her heart seemed steadied by her words. She knew that once an elf loved, they loved for life. Her eyes were clearer than they had ever been with him. Her heart was his. She knew if he asked her now why she was there, she would tell him. She only hoped he would not ask. She waited for his reaction, starting to tremble.
**************
Eamane

"This was only a fist fight, nothing more. The kind I participated in thousands of times and I never required a healer's attention afterwards, not then and certainly not now. Accept my word for it that there is nothing wrong with my ribs and there is no reason for you to remain here." He snapped in desperate defense, his resolve was crumbling.

His last words were like a knife to her heart. Angry at herself, furious with him, and loving him still, she did stand then, using one of her crutches as an extra leg. "I understand you don't want me here," she said angrily. "But I know that 'fist fights' as you call this can cause serious injuries. I'm not going anywhere until I'm sure you are as healthy as I can make you." She took note of his flushed face. It really looked quite awful with the salve and the bruise. He was still beautiful, even though she was furious with him. Her hand not holding the crutch was on her hip and she glared at him.

[Ladypain]

"My Lord..." Orecalo attempted to interfere ready to side with Eamane but deadly glare shot at him by Glorfindel was enough to annihilate a small village forced the healer to take a step backwards.

"You have done an admirable job keeping me as healthy as possible and now you can make me feel even better by leaving." His concience revolted against sitting down next to her. She knew him too well for him to hide his feelings too long. Taking off his clothes would make him feel more exposed and thus prone to revealing the true sadness he felt.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"My Lord..." Orecalo attempted to interfere ready to side with Eamane but deadly glare shot at him by Glorfindel was enough to annihilate a small village forced the healer to take a step backwards.

Eamane glared at him, sure he was going to insist she sit down again, or leave as requested. Then her gaze shot back to Glorfindel as he spoke.

"You have done an admirable job keeping me as healthy as possible and now you can make me feel even better by leaving."

His voice was as cold as his eyes now. Her spine stiffened in reflex to his tone. Borrowing from her cousin, she put a mask of ice over her face. She would not let him see the hurt he had just dealt her, though her heart bled. Her hand clenched on the crutch until her knuckles were white. She wanted to bash his head in. The idiot! Didn't he know she loved him, she believed in him?

"Very well Marchwarden," she said, her voice as cold as his. "If it will make you feel better, I will leave." Tears sprang to her eyes, but she blinked them away. She had to pass him to get to the door, and using the crutches it was slow going. She stopped in front of him and looked up into his eyes. "Get some rest tonight," she said, her haughty tone gone. "Things usually look better in the morning." She wanted to kiss him and hit him at the same time. She did neither, waiting for some response from him. Angry tears stood in her eyes, though none fell.

[Ladypain]

Very well Marchwarden," she said, her voice as cold as his. "If it will make you feel better, I will leave.
His breath was caught in his throat at the glimpse of tears she blinked away rapidly. Her knuckles were white as she crossed the room limping before standing right before him.
Get some rest tonight," she said, her haughty tone gone. "Things usually look better in the morning."
He glanced at her astonished and his hand without the permission of it's master flew to caress her cheek. The ice melted away just for brief moment offering a glimpse into bared heart. "Eamane don't cry. You can't cry because if you do the world must be a miserable place indeed. You..." Awareness of the unintended action caught up to him and he froze. He should never subject her to his pain. "You must leave." They were only one step from the door and gripping her wrist but at the same time minding the injured ankle Glorfindel forced her to take that step. Orecalo bolted through the open door so close to Emane that he almost stepped on her foot. It looked like he was escaping from a trap. Glorfindel closed the door so fast that even the sentries had no time to react. He leaned heavily against it. He never felt so conflicted in his entire life.

[EamaneSilimaure]

His hand caressed her cheek. Unconciously she leaned into the touch a little. Looking at him she suddenly saw it all. His pain, his helplessness, his fear it was all there in his eyes for a moment. She sent what strength she could through the touch.

"Eamane don't cry. You can't cry because if you do the world must be a miserable place indeed. You..."

His voice was soft and filled with sorrow. She doubted even Orecalo could hear him. She wanted to take some of his pain, to comfort him. But she saw the shutters some back over his eyes as he snatched his hand away from her cheek. He was closing himself away from her again and she couldn't bear it.

"You must leave."

He literally pushed her towards the door and out of it. Orecalo passed through so closely that she had to lean out of his way. He closed the door so swiftly behind her that she had no chance to say anything at all. The sentries were staring at her, but she paid them no mind. Turning back to the closed door she called out, "I'll be back tomorrow to check on you." She didn't expect a response, but she would not leave him alone to wallow in despair. His pain was hers. The sooner he learned that, the better.

[Laurelin]

"Just a minute," she said huskily. "I'll be right back," she said. "Don't go anywhere melindo."

Haldir felt her gently pull away and watched as she walked in the other room. He was puzzled as any elf would be at an elf maiden, regardless of how insightful elves were. He smiled and shook his head wondering what it was she was doing. Perhaps straightening her hair, freshing up somehow, he mused. Finally the door opened again and she walked back to him, placing her arms around him once more.

"Forgive me," she murmured, "I..." she smiled at him. "I love you Haldir."

His breath caught in his throat and he felt overwhelmed, but as he looked in her eyes he knew she spoke the truth to him. He knew he loved her as well, more than he let himself admit. He looked at her with all the love he held in his heart for her. For her to say such a thing to him stirred his heart greatly. He pulled her in close; their foreheads were touching. "Gerich meleth nîn, Sarna, a gûr nîn" he whispered, caressing her face. "Le banui, melleth nîn." He kissed her passionately once more, slowly working on removing her gown.

(OOC - You have my love, Sarna, and my heart. You're beautiful, my love)

[EamaneSilimaure]

He pulled her close and pressed his forehead to hers. "Gerich meleth nîn, Sarna, a gûr nîn" he whispered, caressing her face. "Le banui, melleth nîn."

He kissed her again, and there was a hunger in him that hadn't been there before. She returned the kiss, as blown away as he. He loved her. She was trembling in his arms. She felt his hands working on the fastenings of her gown. "The light... please," she managed between kisses. Without release her, he reached out and pinched out the candle flame. The room was enveloped in darkness, though faint starlight came in from the window. She was wrapped in his arms once more. "Melleth nin," she murmured, kissing him. It was so fast to fall in love. Barely a week and she could no longer call her heart her own. She certainly had a splendid sense of timing, she thought. Then she stopped thinking at all.

*fade-out*
~~~~~~~~ ;)
*fade-in*

Sarna lay cuddled next to Haldir. The moon had risen by now and shone through the window on them. His arms were around her, his hands stroking her sides. She rested her head on his chest. "Your heart beats in time with mine," she said softly.

[Charmander]

A sharp, rapid knock at the door woke Legolas. He stood up quickly and went to the door and opened it slowly. Outside stood a tall elf, dressed in Mirkwood garb. He seemed out of breath and greatly distressed. He bowed, 'Your highness. I come with news from the King.' The messenger pulled an envelope out of his robs and handed it to the prince, 'Please excuse the interuption my lord.' He bowed again and turned to leave.

Legolas called out before the messenger was out of earshot, 'Am I not to send a reply with you?' The messenger bowed again, 'My lord, I was bidden to make all haste to Imladris and give this message to you. There were no further instructions. I will rest my horse and body shortly before returning to Mirkwood.' He bowed again and walked around a path, disappearing from Legolas' sight.

Legolas turned and walked back into the guest house. The room had grown dark, he must have slept for hours. He lit a candle and stared at the envelope momentarily. Upon it was the seal of his father, the king of Mirkwood. He broke the seal and opened the letter. He read it slowly, once, and then again. He could not believe what he was reading. His father called for him to return to Mirkwood immediately. No explanation was given save that his life was in danger and his father's as well. He wondered if this meant his father had no intentions of allowing the negotiations to proceed, but wished to hasten war with Lorien.

The writing was not that of his father's, but clearly his chief advisor. Legolas wondered how much of the letter was true. Thalion hated the prince. He stood up abruptly. He wondered if Sarna knew about this letter and had said nothing. Her loyalty to Mirkwood and his father was great. Would she hide the truth from him as well? He sighed, she was his friend and protector, she would not allow him to be in harm's way.

He rushed up the stairs and grabbed various belongings. He could not ignore the summons from his father. His heart ached as he thought of his princess. Their love had flourished within the walls of Imladris, but that would all come to an end. His hands trembled as he took a small pouch and fastened it to his belt, pulling a dark cloak over all of his travel attire. He would have to leave quickly, and quietly. He fastened various weapons under his cloak, the extra weight feeling strange after not needing to carry them around Imladris.

He looked around the guest house once more and resolved to let Toron deal with the rest of the packing. He walked quickly towards Sarna's guest house. On the way there he found Toron walking slowly upon the paths. He turned abruptly as he heard footsteps behind him. Toron bowed as he recognised the prince, 'Your Highness.'

Legolas nodded and said, 'Toron, where is Lady Sarna? I need to speak with her.'

Toron did not change his expression, an excellent student of Sarna's, 'She is not here my lord. May I take a message for her?'

Legolas sighed, 'I have two messages for you then Toron.' He spoke quietly so none could hear, 'My father calls me back to Mirkwood with great urgency. I go immediatly. I will also need you and Sarna to send all of my things as soon after I leave as possible. Please let Lord Elrond know that I have urgent business in Mirkwood and thank him for his generous hospitality.'

Toron nodded, 'It will be done as you command my lord. Shall I go to the stables and prepare your horse?'

Legolas nodded, 'Yes, I will leave before day-break.'

Toron turned and walked quickly towards the stables. Legolas watched him leave and sighed. He needed to see his princess before leaving. He was not worried about sending messages to the fickle Lord of Rivendale, but he must tell her in person that he was leaving. He loathed that exchange greatly. He walked slowly towards the princesses' guest house in hopes of not finding the entire guard of Lorien on watch.

[Laurelin]

Sarna cuddled next to Haldir, her skin cool and soft in the evening air. He held her closely, feeling more at peace than all his years prior to this moment. He savored every second of this, not knowing what tomorrow might bring and when he'd be able to have her in his arms again.

"Your heart beats in time with mine"

He smiled at her words. "Our hearts are one" he whispered, kissing her gently on the lips as she looked up at him. He gave her a gentle squeeze and kissed her forehead. Haldir snuggled closely to her, caressing her side a little higher than before.

He frowned slightly, feeling something wound like across her left side. Sarna flinched. He hadn't felt it before. "What's this?" he asked her softly in concern, siting up slightly. He felt her tremble as she looked up at him.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond only stayed in his own quarters for a few minutes; the room seemed to close in around him and he could find no respite. He went out again, crossing the atrium to go to the Princesses's chambers, to make sure they were comfortable...and to perhaps have a few minutes alone with Celebrian, his heart warmed up, as ever, with the thought.He knocked on the door subtly and went in, on hearing them bid him to enter.The ladies were alone, Haldir had obviously left."I came to make sure all was to your liking", he said, casting a weary smile to Celebrian.

[EamaneSilimaure]

He smiled at her words. "Our hearts are one" he whispered, kissing her gently on the lips as she looked up at him. He gave her a gentle squeeze and kissed her forehead. Haldir snuggled closely to her, caressing her side a little higher than before.

She kissed him back and smiled. When his hand grazed her new scar, she flinched a little.

"What's this?" he asked her softly in concern, siting up slightly. He felt her tremble as she looked up at him.

"The road from my home to Rivendell is dangerous," Sarna whispered. It was the truth, in a way. "Tis nothing but a scar now. The Lady Eamane is quite skilled." She was surprised he hadn't seen any of her other scars. He would be quite confused by the rough scar on her leg that was the only reminder of a goblin arrow many years ago. Sarna kissed his shoulder, as that was all she could reach at the moment. She couldn't get enough of him. She might never get this chance again, and she was determined to make this a memory that lasted.

[Laurelin]

"The road from my home to Rivendell is dangerous," Sarna whispered. "Tis nothing but a scar now. The Lady Eamane is quite skilled."

Haldir felt her kiss on his shoulder. He lifted her chin towards him, placing a kiss on her lips. "The road is dangerous indeed. If you were with me, I would see to it that no harm ever befell you, melleth" he whispered into her ear, still holding her face. He slowly slid himself down and place a tender kiss on her scar. He moved back up to look into her eyes. He wrapped his arms around her once more, pulling her close. "Are there any other injuries that need tending to?" he asked mischieviously.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"The road is dangerous indeed. If you were with me, I would see to it that no harm ever befell you, melleth" he whispered into her ear, still holding her face.

Sarna smiled at him, laughter bubbling up inside her. If only he knew that it was he himself who had been the danger! Haldir slid himself down her side. She shivered deliciously at the touch of his lips on the scar. Her heart swelled in her chest. He came back up and took her in his arms again, looking into her eyes.

"Are there any other injuries that need tending to?" he asked mischieviously.

Sarna laughed merrily. "Hmmm... perhaps, here," she said, pointing to her shoulder. She wondered if he would play along.

[Laurelin]

A sly smile played upon Sarna's lips and Haldir smirked, wondering what she was up to. He had a feeling they would not be sleeping yet.

"Hmmm... perhaps, here"

His smirk broaded into a full playful grin. "Really?" he asked with a raised eyebrow. "Then I better take care of that for you." He leaned towards her shoulder, pausing to look at her smirking at him. He chuckled. "This spot right here?" he asked kissing it sensuously, feeling her shiver and laugh softly. "Any where else, melleth?" he asked playfully. This could get interesting, he thought. Haldir was thoroughly enjoying this and waited for her to suggest another "wounded" spot on her body.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna

"Really?" he asked with a raised eyebrow. "Then I better take care of that for you." He leaned towards her shoulder, pausing to look at her smirking at him. He chuckled. "This spot right here?" he asked kissing it sensuously, feeling her shiver and laugh softly. "Any where else, melleth?" he asked playfully.

Sarna laughed again. "Hmmm... here," she murmured, touching a finger to her throat. She ran her hands through his hair, loving the feel of it. Her heart beat was strong and slow, and her eyes sparkled with humor.
***************
Eamane

Leaving Glorfindel's house was one of the harder things she'd done in her life. She made her way slowly home, Orecalo trailing behind her. She knew he had questions, but she could not answer them. "Good night," she said at her door. "I will come to the wards tomorrow to fetch you. We will go see him again."

"As you say my lady," he answered, not daring to contradict her.

"Thank you Orecalo, for coming," she added. She went inside, shaking her head at a worried Ninde. "Good night," she said tiredly.

The healer made her own way to bed, and was soon in it. Her heart was breaking for Glorfindel. The look in his eyes for that one unguarded moment, haunted her, and though she was tired, she could not close her eyes without seeing it. So she didn't close her eyes.

[Laurelin]

"Hmmm... here"

Haldir smiled and moved up to her neck, pausing slightly and then kissing the exact spot she had pointed out. When he looked back at her, her eyes were telling him don't stop there. He continued kissing her neck and caressing her body.

*fade-out*
~~~~~~~~
*fade-in*

Haldir held her closely, breathing in deeply the scent of her hair, both of them bathed in the moonlight that shown through the window. He finally fell asleep with Sarna's head on his shoulder.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna woke before the sun. The moon had sunk beneath the horizon, and the sun had not yet breached it. She lay entangled with Haldir, her head on his chest, his leg over hers. She could hear his heart beat under her cheek steady in sleep. She lay still a moment, savoring it, content.

Then thoughts of the day intruded. She remembered her purpose, and what she was to do this day. The moment was shattered and contentment fled. She clung to Haldir just a moment more and then slowly pulled herself from his arms. It felt as though she were ripping her heart in two. Silent tears fell unheeded as his arms tried to tighten around her. She slipped from them anyway. Swiftly, before she lost what will she had left and climbed back into the bed, she dressed. Try as she might, she couldn't find all of her hair ribbons.

Finally, she was ready, if not willing, to leave. She stepped close to the bed, looking down at this elf she loved. Leaning down, she kissed him, one last time. "Gerich gûr nîn, melindo," she said softly "Whatever happens.". She caressed his cheek, and a single tear fell onto it from her eyes. Turning swiftly, she fled. It was false dawn.

[Laurelin]

A long path lead to a beautiful garden. Haldir searched in vain for something, not knowing what, but knowing he was looking for something and couldn't find it. He ran down the path trying to reach the garden, but it was just out of reach even as he seemed to draw near, the garden appeared to move always just out of reach. Haldir woke slightly. He was in that state between wakefullness and sleep. He heard a voice speaking softly, but did not wake enough to really hear what was said. He drifted off back into a deep slumber.

The sun had risen, casting golden rays of light across the room. Haldir stirred in his bed, hearing the birds chirp outside the window. He rolled over on his side and stretched out his arms, trying to find the beautiful elf maiden that had slept in his arms all night. Not feeling anyone with him, he sat up and rubbed his eyes groggily, looking around the room. Where had she gone, he wondered. ~Ah, she wishes not to be caught and have to answer uncomfortable questions.~ He sighed, knowing that she probably made a good decision in leaving early. Haldir decided that he too, should get moving lest he have to explain why he slept in his old quarters. He could say that the wine had gotten to him and he'd forgotten that he'd moved, he mused. No, that would never do, he decided, knowing he was not skilled at lying. He was a truthful elf to a fault.

Haldir got out of bed, his skin golden in the sunlight. He reached down to grab his leggings and found another one of Sarna's hair ribbons. He smiled, bringing it to his lips. The scent of her hair was still fresh on the silky emerald green ribbon. He put his clothes on and tucked the ribbon in one of his pockets. Haldir looked around the room once more and sighed. He really wished things could have been such that they could have layed in bed together without worry. Haldir turned and walked out the door, heading swiftly and quietly away from the old cabin undetected. Time to check on the Princesses, he decided.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane

When Ninde arrived that morning, Eamane was already up. She was sitting in the living room, waiting.

"You are up early my lady," Ninde said only.

"Yes," Eamane said. "I have much to do today." She smiled at Ninde. "Now that I am mobile again, I want to go to the wards, check on things, and then go to Glorfindel again. I told him I would." She added the last, seeing Ninde about to protest. "I promised."

"As you say my lady," Ninde said. "Would you like some breakfast before you go?"

"I suppose I should eat something," she said. Considering she hadn't slept at all, she would need all the help she could get to last the day.
**************************
Sarna

She crept into her own apartments, her hair loose down her back and her cloak pulled tight around her. She had nearly reached the door to her room whrn Toron's door opened. "Good Morning my lady," he said blandly.

She turned and looked at him. "Good morning," she replied.

"The Prince has gone home my lady," Toron said. "He recieved a letter from the King last night and told me he planned to leave before daybreak."

Sarna nodded. "That is well then. He is safe from retribution for our actions now." She looked out the window. The sun was well up now. Haldir had probably woken while she walked in the gardens. "It happens tonight," she said. "Altenen's men have control of Elrond's compound, and that is where the Princesses are now. We will slip in, take them, and slip out again. None will know until morning." The city of Rivendell slept deeply at night. "By then we will be far from here." She turned to go to her room.

"Where were you?" Toron asked.

~With my love~ she thought. "I was checking the security of the compound. It's tighter than it was, but as I said, The troops on our side now have control of it. We will get through, if not undetected, then unmolested. Still, night is our best option to avoid uncomfortable questions." She looked at him, "Now if you are through questioning me, I have things to do."

"Forgive me," Toron said. "Your men are in place."

"Thank you," she said, going into her room and shutting the door. She sat down on the bed and stared out her window. She didn't really have much to do now, except wait, and then go. Her mind drifted to the past night. A smile touched her lips before falling away. This time tomorrow she would have betrayed him, and she would be far from him. She could not leave without someway to explain. A letter would do nicely. One for Haldir, and one for Elrond. He should know that the Princesses were not harmed, and who had done this, and why. Sarna moved to the writing desk.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

With the dagger secured in folds of her dress Celebrian rearranged the room to her liking. The task mostly kept her distracted from sad thoughts as the dusk grew behind the windows. She tiredly approached the window and opened it to let the evening and starlight into the room. She heard a knock but ignored it meanwhile Ithildiel admited someone inside however the voice made her turn around and approach their visitor.
I came to make sure all was to your liking", he said, casting a weary smile to Celebrian.
"The room and the gardens certainly are." Another tiny loss of freedom was not however nor was the appearance of their host. "Lord Elrond have you more news to tell us?"

*******
Glorfindel

I'll be back tomorrow to check on you. Glorfindel answered nothing. He stayed near the door until he could no longer hear her footsteps. The air was heavy, nearly suffocating. Luckily there were no guards stationed under the windows and he was free to remain near one undisturbed. He greedely breathed in the evening air and soft wind blew on his heated face. The room was becoming dark but he lit nothing. The darkness matched his desire to stay invisible. Glorfindel remained by the window but moved aside so he was not visible from outside.

Where had he gone wrong? He retraced every step in the past week wondering what could have he done differently. It was possible to make no mistakes and still become trapped in a bad situation. A nearby thud and elvish curse muffled through greeted teeth interrupted his musings.
"Quiet." Unknown voice hissed. "The former Marchwarden's house is the last place we should be near. The very least you can do is attract no attention."
Glorfindel strained his vision and hearing. The direction of the unknown pair was clear but they were out of sight covered by darkness.
"I wish to make certain that he is in fact arrested." The other defended his actions however his companion was not convinced. "By peeking into the windows? This is the worst idea you had so far. The house is dark. He is either asleep or not here. Doesn't matter where he is as long as he is locked away securely. I saw him today handcuffed escorted by Chief at Arms. The sentries on the posts are also not his. This is the opportunity we've being waiting for."
The urgency and deep coviction apperently reached the other as he answered after a long pause making decision. "Very well. We shall do this tonight or never. Pack our bags and I will prepare the mounts. I will meet you before Ithilias rises near the Princess' guest house."
The first speaker did not dwell on winning the argument and hurried to put as much distance between himself and the house as possible. Glorfindel remained where he was as the pair receeded. He had his own decision to make.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond/Ithildiel

The room and the gardens certainly are." Another tiny loss of freedom was not however nor was the appearance of their host. "Lord Elrond have you more news to tell us?"

Elrond cast her a grim look; she seemed sad and preoccupied and not very happy to see him, he thought dismally."I'm afraid not, my lady..."he started quietly."We have yet to confirm any of our information..."

Ithildiel intervened."So, will you not tell us why the sudden worry and increase of security, my Lord?" she asked, trying her best to sound casual rather than worried. Elrond shook his head."We...have not yet established anything, my lady, but we did get rumours of some plot or other against you and this is why I saw fit to make sure you were safe...";he hesitated unwilling to say anything more...anything that would implicate Glorfindel, he thought grimly, still hoping it would come to be proved he was innocent.The Princess nodded, apparently unwilling herself to ask anything more."I shall...take a stroll around the compound, if I may", she said calmly."I should like a look around", she explained, as Elrond turned to look at her."Of course", the Lord of Rivendell smiled, "you're free to come and go as you please, my lady".~Really?~Ithildiel thought, not without a touch of irony; everyone seemed so protective of herself and Celebrian, it was almost suffocating.She did not say that, though; instead, she stepped out of the room briskly, before Elrond decided to stop her.

The Lord of Rivendell watched Princess Ithildiel walk out before turning to Celebrian."Are you all right, meleth nin?"he asked quietly, hesitating to step closer to her for some reason.

*****************
Ithildiel stepped out of the compound that housed the Lord of Rivendell; she needed a longer walk to put her uneasiness at rest...the thought of checking the guest house they resided in till a few hours ago entered her thought, without much cause; if anyone asked, she could say she had gone over there to make sure nothing was forgotten in their rather hasty move.

[Charmander]

Legolas walked quickly towards the princesses' guest house. He pulled the hood of his travel cloak close around his face. He did not wish to be seen by any one; or if seen not recognised. The paths around Imladris were empty so late at night. Legolas was thankful for the quiet. He still wondered why he was being called home, hoping with all his heart that his father was not making a grave mistake.

He slowed his pace as he neared the entrance to the guest house. There seemed to be far less guards visible than usual, perhaps a shift change from the Lorien MarchWarden. He seemed greatly out of sorts earlier this morning, seeing his charges in what seemed to be great danger.

The front of the guest house was sparesly lit, but Legolas could discern Princess Ithildiel making her way into the house. He was some what surprised to see her up so late and with no guards shadowing her.

He took one more survey of the area, making sure there were none that would see him. And followed the same path he did the first time he went to see the princess. He quickly scaled the wall and stopped on her balcony. He opened the door quietly and stepped in, uncertain whether he should seek her out now or wait for her to arrive in her room. He smiled, thinking he did not want a repeat of their last meeting in this room.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel walked in the guest house warily; it felt strange, she thought, not having a sentinel or two shadowing her every step. She was hoping Haldir would not realise she had gone outside the Lord's compound at this hour; she was in no mood for another fight with him.~Haldir will be asleep, most likely~she reassured herself~getting some much needed rest...~A faint noise from her room above, brought her out of her musings;Ithildiel frowned.~I don't suppose someone is already sent to tidy this place up this late~she thought uneasily, her hand moving unconsciously towards the smal weapon hidden in her dress. "Who goes there?" she called out, keeping her voice low and as calm as she could;she took a couple of steps back towards the little house's entrance, just in case, as footsteps were heard on the small stairwell leading up to the bedrooms.

[Charmander]

Legolas walked slowly out of the room, deciding being out in the open would be the best way to avoid getting attacked again. Ithildiel must have heard him as she called out warily, 'Who goes there?'

He frowned slightly when he heard her voice, hoping this was not the last time they would be seeing one another. The hallways were rather dark, a few candles lit the house sparsely. He stepped forward quickly, seeing Ithildiel at the bottom of the stairs. He spoke quietly, as to not alarm Princess Celebrian, 'Do not be alarmed my princess.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Someone stepped forward through the shadows at her prompt.Ithildiel took one more step back, her hand touching the hidden dagger's hilt, when a voice she knew well came to soothe her.

'Do not be alarmed my princess.'

"Legolas?" she aske,d barel concealing a smile of relief, as she stepped forward to meet him."What are you doing here...and at this hour?"she ventured to ask;in the dim light of the few candles lit around the small sitting room, she could discern the shadows in his eyes."Is everything all right?" she asked, before she could stop herself.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel relaxed visibly and replied, 'Legolas? What are you doing here...and at this hour?'

As she spoke he quickly made his way down the flight of stairs. Now that she stood so near, the orders from his father seemed distant and unimportant. She sensed something from him and before he could speak, asked, 'Is everything all right?'

He smiled, 'Now that I am with you, everything is fine.' He leaned close to her, kissing her softly.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'Now that I am with you, everything is fine.'

Ithildiel responded to his kiss, but looked at him doubtfully, as she traced his face with gentle fingers."Are you sure?You seem pale..." she said worriedly."What brings you here in this hour of the night?" she smiled softly and continued, a little teasingly."I hope it is only that you missed me".

[Charmander]

Ithildiel smiled, 'Are you sure? You seem pale...What brings you here in this hour of the night? I hope it is only that you missed me.'

His skin tingled as her fingers traced his face gently. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close, 'I will always miss you when we are apart.' His heart ached as he thought of what he must tell her.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I will always miss you when we are apart.'

Ithildiel held him close, as did he; something was wrong, she could hear it in his voice now. "Legolas...what's going on?" she asked, pushing him gently away, but not letting go.Beneath the heavy cloak he was draped in, she thought she could feel the rough outlines of concealed weaponry as she held him, and that, somehow, alarmed her, though she would not say so.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel kissed him back, her sweet smell surrounding him. She must have sensed tension, she pushed him away gently, 'Legolas...what's going on?'

He held her hands, and looked down at the floor, then slowly back up at her. Even in the dim light she looked breath-taking. He felt guilty for coming to her like this, knowing he could not stay. He kissed her hands each in succession, 'I fear...' He faltered, he looked into her eyes and knew the pain he would cause. He took a deep breath, 'Meleth nin, I must go. My father calls me back to Mirkwood.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I fear...' 'Meleth nin, I must go. My father calls me back to Mirkwood.'

Ithildiel's breath caught in her throat; she knew, of course, this was bound to happen, but she did not...had not expected it to be so soon.She blinked hastily, pushing tears back;it would be both foolish and unbecoming to start crying like an elfling, she admonished herself...and it would cause Legolas even more pain to see her thus."Are you...going right now?" she asked, after a while, realising her voice was shaking.

[Charmander]

Legolas could see his anguish reflected in her reaction. Her eyes started to shimmer briefly, though she stopped the onset of tears, 'Are you...going right now?'

Her voice wavered and he squeezed her hands gently before pulling her closer. He kissed her softly on the forehead, whispering slowly, 'Before day-break.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'Before day-break.'

Ithildiel pressed against him, more unwilling to let go now than ever."We knew this was coming..." she said quietly, keeping her voice to a whisper, for she did not know if she could raise it without breaking into tears."The end of our dream..."

[Charmander]

Legolas wrapped his arms around Ithildiel, her hands resting softly on his chest, 'We knew this was coming...The end of our dream...'

He could not bring himself to break their embrace. He traced her back lightly with his fingers, wanting to say something that would make their heartache lessen. He knew what her answer would be, but he asked anyway, 'It does not have to be an end, my princess, but a beginning. Why don't you come with me?'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'It does not have to be an end, my princess, but a beginning. Why don't you come with me?'

Ithildiel smiled sadly at his words."If only it was that simple,meleth nin...I would follow you in a heartbeat; but you know I cannot...",she sighed, still holding on to him."To run away like this now would bring so much trouble upon the both of us...and everyone else that we care for..."

[Charmander]

She half-smiled, 'If only it was that simple,meleth nin...I would follow you in a heartbeat; but you know I cannot...To run away like this now would bring so much trouble upon the both of us...and everyone else that we care for...'

He smiled, 'I can not imagine anything in Middle Earth that would trouble me if I had you by my side. And for those we care for,' he kissed her cheek,' I can think of no one whom I care more for you than you.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I can not imagine anything in Middle Earth that would trouble me if I had you by my side. And for those we care for,' he kissed her cheek,' I can think of no one whom I care more for you than you.'

Ithildiel managed a smile, though still holding back tears. "I love you more than life itself, Legolas", she said quietly, after a brief silence."But, if we were to run away together right now...would we not be giving our realms the perfect excuse to start a war?"She paused, then spoke again."But to be apart from you..."she left her sentence unfinished, her throat closing with oncoming tears.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel voice grew softer, 'I love you more than life itself, Legolas. But, if we were to run away together right now...would we not be giving our realms the perfect excuse to start a war But to be apart from you...'

Legolas held her shoulder's, pushing her away from him slightly to look into her face. He could see the tears beginning, and chided himself. He leaned forward and kissed her, 'I would not ask you to make so serious a decision with a moment's notice, princess. Just know that though we may be parted now, my love for you will not diminish. I will come back for you, here or in Lorien, whether our realms are at war or not.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I would not ask you to make so serious a decision with a moment's notice, princess. Just know that though we may be parted now, my love for you will not diminish. I will come back for you, here or in Lorien, whether our realms are at war or not.'

Ithildiel did not let him pull away; instead she kissed him in her turn,her lips exploring his."You had better", she said, seeking to make the pain that tore at both their hearts lighter-though she knew that was impossible,"else I might have to come after you, meleth nin;if only you could stay longer..."she sighed."I do not wish for us to be parted thus, this suddenly..."her voice broke off; she had a very bad feeling about this separation.

[Charmander]

She kissed him passionately, 'You had better, else I might have to come after you, meleth nin; if only you could stay longer...I do not wish for us to be parted thus, this suddenly...'

He wanted to stay with her all night, but could feel the sunrise getting ever closer. He said softly, 'I wish I could stay here, with you, forever. But I can not stay.' He pulled her closer and kissed her cheek and then her neck. He stopped slowly, not wanting his lips to leave her skin, 'I have brought something for you, something to remember me by when I am not here in body. Close your eyes.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I wish I could stay here, with you, forever. But I can not stay.'

"I know", Ithildiel sighed; it would not do for her to make him sadder than he already was and make their hearts darker than they already were."Just...be careful on your way back", she tried to smile, as he leant in to kiss her,just as reluctant to let her go as she was.

'I have brought something for you, something to remember me by when I am not here in body. Close your eyes.'

Ithildiel looked at him, frowning a little, before doing what she was told."What are you up to?" she asked, only half closing her eyes, not wanting to not be able to see him.

[Charmander]

She half-closed her eyes, 'What are you up to?'

He smiled, 'Up to? Princess, I thought it was obvious.' He kissed her again, lingering for a few seconds before stepping away slightly. He loosened the pouch from his belt and took a small piece of jewelry out. The dim lighting of the guest house made it shimmer. The neckalce was made from the finest mithril and set in the middle was a golden-coloured jewel shaped like a leaf from the trees of Valinor.

He looked at Ithildiel, her eyes still shut, and smiled. He took her hands and placed the necklace within them, waiting for her to open her eyes.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'Up to? Princess, I thought it was obvious.'

Ithildiel was tempted to re-open her eyes at the mischievous tone in his voice, but he had already stepped away, though not too far.Ithildiel was about to tease him, feeling more than a little silly standing there with her eyes closed, when he took her hands, placing something that felt like metal within them.She opened her eyes slowly,looking down to see a small, delicate silver necklace, the leaf-shaped jewel in the centre catching the soft candlelight and reflecting it back, shimmering golden with an eerie, almost mystical light.Ithildiel looked at it mesmerized for a few seconds, beofre looking up at Legolas again; he stood only a couple of paces away, smiling conspiratively."It's...beautiful", she said softly."But I do not need jewellery to remember you by, meleth nin", she smiled teasingly."I cannot forget you".

[Charmander]

Ithildiel opened her eyes slowly, her delicate fingers touching the necklace. She looked up at him, 'It's...beautiful. But I do not need jewellery to remember you by, meleth nin. I cannot forget you.'

He replied teasingly, 'I should hope you would not forget me.' He smiled and spoke more quielty, 'It is not just a reminder of me, but the love I bear for you. It is an heirloom of my house, and I would like for you to keep it as a token of my commitment to you.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I should hope you would not forget me.'

Ithildiel smiled at the tease."I was about to say the same", she jested, but his expression was serious again.

'It is not just a reminder of me, but the love I bear for you. It is an heirloom of my house, and I would like for you to keep it as a token of my commitment to you.'

Ithildiel closed the distance between them and placed a soft kiss upon his lips."I need no token of that, meleth nin", she smiled,"but...I wish I had prepared something to give you in return, as custom requires", she added, knowing she was blushing.This gesture of his moved her more than words could express; she could see it in his eyes, this necklace meant a lot to him, but she could not bring herself to ask more about it, not now."Guren sa i ant nin a le", she said softly.

*"My heart is my gift to thee".

[Charmander]

She pulled him closer, kissing him, 'I need no token of that, meleth nin, but...I wish I had prepared something to give you in return, as custom requires.

He smiled and brushed her hair away from her face, 'I do not stand much on custom, meleth.'

She leaned in closer, Guren sa i ant nin a le.'

He kissed her softly, 'I will treasure it always.' He broke away from her slightly, 'Let me put it on you.'

He took the necklace from her hand. He gently pushed her hair aside and clasped it at the back of her neck, stealing a kiss while he was so close. He wrapped his arms around her, 'You are now fit to be the queen of Mirkwood.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I do not stand much on custom, meleth.'

Ithildiel smiled."Perhaps you're right", she sighed, as he brushed a few stray locks from her face.

'I will treasure it always.' He broke away from her slightly, 'Let me put it on you.'

"And I shall treasure this...and all it stands for, my love", Ithildiel replied, giving him the necklace, as he placed it around her neck, stealing a couple of kisses in the process.

'You are now fit to be the queen of Mirkwood.'

Ithildiel wrapped her arms around him, his own hands already around her waist."I would be happy just being with you, my love, royalty or not", she jested.

[Charmander]

She wrapped her arms around him, 'I would be happy just being with you, my love, royalty or not.'

He pulled her closer still, kissing her neck repeatedly, 'I would ask you to be my Luthien, and live in the forest, but I know what your answer would be. The hour grows late, or early, meleth...' He did not complete the sentence, he could not bring himself to leave her.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I would ask you to be my Luthien, and live in the forest, but I know what your answer would be.

"And what do you think my answer would be?" Ithildiel smiled, catching her breath.

The hour grows late, or early, meleth...'

Ithildiel nodded, all her playfulness dissipating."I know..."she sighed."You have to go soon; I wish time could just stand still..."Legolas released her, albeit unwillingly. Ithildiel, without thinking, brought her hand up to the necklace, seeking to draw comfort from it."Legolas..."she asked, not sure how or why that question came into her thought right now; she just wanted to delay his departure as much as she could."This necklace..."she paused, not sure what to say."Who did it belong to?" she ventured the question quietly.

[Charmander]

Her smile faded quickly, 'I know...You have to go soon; I wish time could just stand still...'

He pulled away from her slowly as she said, 'Legolas...' She seemed to search for words, 'This necklace...Who did it belong to?'

He sighed and smiled, 'It is called Valasea. The necklace was given to my mother, but my father, when they were courting. The necklace symoblises the majesty of Valinor. She gave it to my father before she passed into the West a long time ago. I keep it with me whenever I travel abroad, but now its purpose seems all to perfect.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'It is called Valasea. The necklace was given to my mother, but my father, when they were courting. The necklace symoblises the majesty of Valinor. She gave it to my father before she passed into the West a long time ago. I keep it with me whenever I travel abroad, but now its purpose seems all to perfect.'

Ithildiel noticed the sorrow in his eyes at the mention of his mother.~I was right...~she thought abstractedly, ~in thinking that this meant so much to you, my love...~She smiled at him a little nervously."I shall cherish this all the more now that I know how much it means to you, my love", she said simply, reaching out to caress his face, as she moved towards him again.He would have to go soon, she thought, a sting in her heart at the thought.

[Ladypain]

The Lord of Rivendell watched Princess Ithildiel walk out before turning to Celebrian."Are you all right, meleth nin?"he asked quietly, hesitating to step closer to her for some reason.

"I was about to ask you the same question." Celebrian remained where she was uncertain what she should do. The Lord of Rivendell is a private person. Possibly it is easier for him to handle the problems on his own. Who was she to disturb him? What they shared was elusive as a dream.

[Charmander]

She smiled at him, touching his face lightly as his eyes glazed over, 'I shall cherish this all the more now that I know how much it means to you, my love.'

He took her hand and kissed the palm of her hand, 'I wish that I could take you with me, so we would not be parted. But it would seem that the fates that brought us together now break us apart, ever so briefly.' He pulled her into his arms, 'I will come for you, and bring you back to Mirkwood as my wife.' He kissed her slowly and passionately, seeing the sky begin to lighten ever so slightly.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond

"I was about to ask you the same question."

There was a touch of frost in her voice, Elrond thought, taken aback by it."I'm...as well as I can be given the circumstances", he said quietly, unwilling to tire her with discussion of the affairs of Rivendell...especially since he had nothing substantial to report. "I needed to see you though", he added, a slight smile making its appearance upon his lips."You are the only light in my life right now", he added, not sure how she would react.

******************
Ithildiel

'I wish that I could take you with me, so we would not be parted. But it would seem that the fates that brought us together now break us apart, ever so briefly.'

Ithildiel smiled faintly."I feel I am being too selfish", she said, a litte apologetically, "I loathe the idea of being parted from you, even if it is, as you say, for a brief time". Legolas pulled her close again, seeking to reassure her.

'I will come for you, and bring you back to Mirkwood as my wife.'

They kissed, slowly and passionately, each refusing to be the first one to break off...but they both felt morning was drawing near."I'll be waiting for you", Ithildiel said, when they stopped at last."Just...be careful on your way home", she added, still unwilling to say the hated word:farewell.

[Ladypain]

You are the only light in my life right now", he added, not sure how she would react.
Most dear to her was his tender smile, more so because it was rare. She felt Elrond had little cause in his life to laugh. She smiled as well trying to encourage the hesitant feeling and have him smile again. “Light lost in the darkness. The comparison is true about you as well Master Elrond. A light is a source of hope, all are drawn to its power but it highlights not only escape for it also opens eyes to the danger around us. Now that I’ve seen the light I would never trade it’s duality for a peaceful bliss of ignorance.”

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

“Light lost in the darkness. The comparison is true about you as well Master Elrond. A light is a source of hope, all are drawn to its power but it highlights not only escape for it also opens eyes to the danger around us. Now that I’ve seen the light I would never trade it’s duality for a peaceful bliss of ignorance.”

Elrond smiled at her again, though her eyes were dark.He took a step forward, caressing her cheek softly. "I feel as if I lived my whole life in darkness, till you came to bring light in it, my love; I care not for danger, as long as your radiance is with me...to give rise to the hope it will all be well", he continued.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

She leaned into the caress as all her fears melted under the tender touch. Celebrian closed her eyes feeling the gesture become more sensual. There was nothing more cherished than to let someone see content of her soul and have faith they will not destroy it. “You were my love before we met. You were in my vision in Lorien. I saw you and imagined we were walking close together on a forest path. Then the narrow path widened, more light shined through the tree canopies, there were flowers and mushrooms and tall grass all around us but we touched picked nothing. We kept walking along close to each other as if the path was still narrow, so happy we were together.” Celebrian smiled still keeping her eyes closed.

*********
Glorfindel

The guards suspected nothing. Not once in all those hours during which he remained under house arrest did they enter to check whether he was still inside. Glorfindel paced the room again. Both Lorien Princesses were in danger. It had taken him every bit of self control to refrain from jumping out the window and grabbing whoever was hiding in shadows as they spoke of doing ill. The act would have allowed him to see who they were but what good would it do if they called for help and he was arrested again by Altenen’s sentries and locked away, this time in the wine cellar most likely. No one would believe him. The sentries would laugh was he to open the door and tell them he accidentally overheard a conversation. They would not allow him to speak with anyone who had a bit of common sense either.

The only option was to do this alone. Glorfindel hesitated. The half promise not to escape bounded him to stay better than ropes and locks would have. The stars that sailed the sky prior to arrival of the moon were lit already. ~I must go.~ The decision weighted heavily upon him but any doubts had to be dismissed. Since there were no weapons left in his house Glorfindel left unarmed. Although the windows were farther above the ground than full height of a tall elf he had no trouble climbing out. Unseen and unheard Glorfindel slipped by the guards heading to guest wing.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

You were my love before we met. You were in my vision in Lorien. I saw you and imagined we were walking close together on a forest path. Then the narrow path widened, more light shined through the tree canopies, there were flowers and mushrooms and tall grass all around us but we touched picked nothing. We kept walking along close to each other as if the path was still narrow, so happy we were together.”

"That is a beautiful image, meleth nin", Elrond smiled, savouring the last words, as he closed the distance at last, taking her in his arms, as he had longed to do all day."And it might yet come to pass, if all this ever comes to an end", he sighed, drawing comfort from her warmth and scent, as his hands were wrapped around her."I feel as if I'm walking in a garden, carefree and happier than I have ever been every time I lay my eyes upon you", he continued."To have you in my arms thus...it is heaven itself".

[Charmander]

She broke away slowly, reluctantly, 'I'll be waiting for you. Just...be careful on your way home.'

He leaned away from her reluctantly, his hands lingering on her shoulders. He lifted his hands away from her, 'Princess, meleth nin...' His voice faltered again, searching for words. He weaved his fingers through her hair, kissing her softly on the forehead, 'I will take as much care as I can, being without you will keep me sufficiently distracted.' He half-smiled and walked towards the staircase, not wanting to be seen by the Lorien guards. He took her hand and led her up the stairs, neither speaking, enjoying their stolen moments together. They entered her room. He slowly let go of her hand, kissing it softly before opening the balcony door. 'Gerich veleth nín,' he kissed her slowly. He inhaled deeply, hoping to capture her scent forever, fearing he would not see her again for some time. He ran his hands through her hair before pushing her away gently, 'Navaer.'

[Ladypain]

"That is a beautiful image, meleth nin", Elrond smiled, savouring the last words, as he closed the distance at last, taking her in his arms, as he had longed to do all day."And it might yet come to pass, if all this ever comes to an end", he sighed, drawing comfort from her warmth and scent, as his hands were wrapped around her."I feel as if I'm walking in a garden, carefree and happier than I have ever been every time I lay my eyes upon you", he continued."To have you in my arms thus...it is heaven itself".

Celebrian wrapped her hands around his waist. She breathed in the scent of a body she melted against surrendering to the envelping warmth. "It already came to pass." She smiled against his chest. "The gardens are a wonder, the sun shines brighter and the flowers bloom with more life then ever. My heaven is where my love is." Her hand slid across his chest resting where his heart beat, then touched her chest. "My heaven is in your heart, in my heart and where we are and hopefully where we will be."

********
Glorfindel

His sentries were dismissed. Nothing else was expected of Altenen. Before approaching, Glorfindel scanned the surroundings surprised to find by the few numbers of Lorien guards. Perhaps Haldir did not hear yet about the arrest and he thought Elrond’s sentries were helping. There was no sight of conspirers either. He must have waited too long and they were inside before he arrived. Once unsuspecting guard turned away Glorfindel slipped through the patrolled circle. He dared to release his breath only when he was inside the house. So close was he to being caught once when Lorien passed by him only a stretched arm away.

The first room was empty. So was the next one. There was no mistake that Celebrian and Ithildiel were there before but they were gone and so were their things. Another deliberate snare entangled him. Fighting with demand of panicked intuition to flee Glorfindel snuck back to the first room but the trap had no wish to release the victim. Sharp burst of light momentarily blinded him. Dodging towards the exit he heard the means to escape snap shut. He instinctively avoided a fist but the next attack cost him balance and he stumbled dragging both attackers to the floor with him. A hard kick followed by moan and curse temporarily left only one of the attackers holding him. Wriggling like an eel he escaped the grip but he could not escape unharmed. Unavoidable knife found its mark through frenzy haze. Pursued by a sharp scream not recognised as his own, Glorfindel blindly charged towards the front door.

Despair pushed him beyond limit. It was better to die escaping than to be imprisoned as traitor. The door never stood a chance bashed out in one shoulder blow by the Balrog slayer much to the astonishment of Lorien sentries. The shouts of Altenen’s guards to arrest Rivendell’s Marchwarden who raced past them pale as a ghost added to their confusion. The precious moments before they could explain which way he ran were lost. Glorfindel disappeared.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

'Princess, meleth nin...' His voice faltered again, searching for words. He weaved his fingers through her hair, kissing her softly on the forehead, 'I will take as much care as I can, being without you will keep me sufficiently distracted.'

Ithildiel tried to smile, responding to his kisses and caresses with ardour tantamount to his, as he led her back up to her former room and opened the balcony door, trying to keep quiet, in case there were sentries about.He hesitated, as he ran his fingers through her hair again.There was a lump in her throat, keeping the words from coming out; this was goodbye, there was no more dealying it, though she knew they both would have liked nothing better than to do that and postpone this moment indefinitely.

'Gerich veleth nín.Navaer.'

"And you have my heart...Be careful", she managed at last, placing one last kiss upon his lips,before he scaled the balcony, hoping to evade any passing sentries...and there seemed to be quite a few abroad this night, Ithildiel thought nervously, wondering if she had been missed.Legolas slid down slowly, disappearing into the night;Ithildiel whispered a soft "Navaer" as he vanished from sight within the gardens.

She slipped out of the guest house, seeing the first glimmers of light illuminate the east; the new days was not far now, she thought, trying to push back all the tears she had felt welling up fro mthe moment Legolas had told her he had to leave; her hand moved unconsciously towards the necklace, feeling comforted at the touch of the warm, golden stone, though her heart still ached for her prince.There was a commotion rising around her, one she had not noticed till now, but that it drew her out of her thoughts nonetheless.She hastened her pace, thinking her absence had been discovered somehow, as she slipped into Lord Elrond's compound from a side door, praying she had not caused all the unrest.

***********************
Elrond

"It already came to pass." "The gardens are a wonder, the sun shines brighter and the flowers bloom with more life then ever. My heaven is where my love is." "My heaven is in your heart, in my heart and where we are and hopefully where we will be."

Elrond kissed her softly."You sound like a poet, my love", he said with a soft smile, his cares forgotten, though it was for a little while, he sighed inwardly; if only he did npt have all he had weighing on his mind...He put all of it aside,at Celebrian's hand sliding across his chest; he took her hand and kissed it."You're all that matters to me, melisse", he said quietly."It is forever, for nothing can ever change how I feel for you", he said tenderly.

[Charmander]

She kissed him one last time before he moved quickly out to the balcony, checking for sentries, and then climbing to the ground. He did not dare look back up to see her in the moonlight, knowing his heart would win the battle and he would not leave as he should.

He made his way to the stables on the far side of Rivendale, near the gates. Toron had saddled the horse with all the necesary accoutrements, food and gear. Legoals patted the horse slowly, unwilling to do what he must. He led the horse out of the stable. A few lone sentires stood by, but took no notice of the prince, as they were looking for invaders into Rivendale and not out of it. He walked the horse through the gates, his feet moving slowly, his heart pulling him back.

He knew the sooner he left the sooner he would return. He mounted the horse after walking some distance away from the main gates. He took one last look at Rivendale and then nudged the horse slightly, making all haste towrads Mirkwood.

[Ladypain]

Elrond kissed her softly."You sound like a poet, my love",

Celebrian eagerly laughed but careful not to be loud. "Love is the best inspiration for poets but no words are adequate to express what I feel for you." Her hands slid down his back. Meanwhile her freed her other hand from his lips and fingers and wrapped it around his neck.

You're all that matters to me, melisse", he said quietly."It is forever, for nothing can ever change how I feel for you", he said tenderly.

Their breath was mixed once more, their lips almost brushed as Celbrian moved closer to kiss him but then she pulled away with amused sparkle in her eyes.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Love is the best inspiration for poets but no words are adequate to express what I feel for you."

Elrond smiled tenderly."I feel the same, my love; there are no words I could use, even the loftiest, more eloquent and elaborate expressions would fail to express all I feel", he jested.

Her lips claimed his own and he allowed reality to fade away, his cares all but forgotten for as long as their kiss lasted.Celebrian broke off, a strange sparkle dancing in her eyes. "What is it,meleth?"Elrond asked, his own eyes darkening.

[Ladypain]

"Nothing much." She held an object behind his back in her arm which was wrapped around him. "Your renown eloquence speaks trully melleth." The hair freed from the circlet spilled over his shoulders. Celebrian showed him an object which she removed during the kiss. "I have not suspected that official status items had practical uses." She hid the circlet behind her back and with a free arm played with the raven locks.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Nothing much.Your renown eloquence speaks trully melleth."

Elrond smiled."That might be true in any other case, my lady, but I seem to lose my words every time I am around you", he jested."Itmight well be that you are far too beautiful for words and I find myself struck speechless".

Celebrian smiled, bringing the arm she had held wrapped around his neck as they kissed forward;Elrond frowned slightly, at the sight of the circlet in her hand; he had not even felt her take it out of his hair.

"I have not suspected that official status items had practical uses."

Elrond smiled at the mischievous tone in her voice. "They have...their uses", he said, leaning in to place a soft kiss upon her lips, as he took the ornament from her hand and tossed it carelessly upon a nearby chair."Which reminds me...I had something for you; something I was supposed to have given you a few days ago", he smiled, a little shyly, recalling the Summer feast presents; he had totally forgotten about them.

[Ladypain]

"That might be true in any other case, my lady, but I seem to lose my words every time I am around you", he jested."Itmight well be that you are far too beautiful for words and I find myself struck speechless."

Their kiss, slow and tender lasted until she pulled away breathless. Celebrian playfully traced outline of his ear tip with her finger. "Lucky for us we all understand the launguage of gestures. One caring touch speaks volumes." Elrond took a circlet from her and tossed it on nearby chair.

They have...their uses. had something for you; something I was supposed to have given you a few days ago.

"What's that?" She glanced at him with purely femenine curiosity.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Lucky for us we all understand the launguage of gestures. One caring touch speaks volumes."

Elrond smiled teasingly,tempted to kiss her again, a temptation he resisted not without difficulty;she was still trying to catch her breath and his ribs protested for the lack of air.

"What's that?"

Elrond's eyes twinkled at the curiosity in her tone."You shall have to wait till morning, my lady", he teased her gently,quite unwilling to leave her right now, even for a few moments, "but I do hope it shall be to your liking".

[Ladypain]

Celebrian tried not to show obvious interest that intensified tenfold. "Is that so?" She faked indifference. "I supose you can wait until the morning to kiss me again?" She slipped out of his hands and walked around the chair where circlet lay having placed the furniture between them.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Is that so?" She faked indifference. "I supose you can wait until the morning to kiss me again?"

Elrond smiled at her feigned indifference,but he pretended not to notice, as she put an ramchair between them."I suppose I should", he shrugged, naively, "if you are too weary to don me a kiss at this late hour; I would not wish to exhaust you, my love", he could not conceal a teasing smile.

[Ladypain]

"I will never be too tired to don you a kiss my love but I would not dare in concern for your well being to exhaust you." Celebrian adopted the same naive tone pretending not to notice the teasing smile. Indeed he was exhausted, she noticed sadly. The shadows weighted heavily on him. Celebrian revealed no trace of those observations. "Would you care to sit down? I would be negligent not to offer you a drink." She leaned on the chair and low-necked dress cut downed lower.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"I am fine, my lady; you needn't worry about me", Elrond smiled,the memory of Eamane's potion flashing through his mind; it had been forgotten in his study, he thought dismissively,ignoring a sting at his ribs, his thought focused on the maiden across from him. She was using his own teasing against him, and she had the exclusively feminine weapon of seduction on her side, he smiled inwardly...a weapon all women were proficient with and one no man could ever resist."and I need no drink when your presence alone is enough to intoxicate me", he continued tenderly, taking a few steps towards her.

[Ladypain]

When Elrond moved towards her Celebrian made few calculated steps away hiding the desire to step towards him instead. "My love, your lips are a source of revel. They are like a crystal spring to a sun weary traveller." She dared tease him farther. "The existance is never more pleasurable than when one dissolves in refreshing bliss of a life giving substance and I cannot drink enough." Deliberately slowly Celebrian licked her lips. "But since you don't want anything to drink..." She smiled impishly. "Perhaps I can entertain you in exciting game of chess. I'm sure I have seen a board somewhere in a Hall of Fire."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Celebrian took a few steps back,continuing to tease him. Elrond smiled to himself; this was one game he did not stand to win...though he would not surrender without a fight, he thought, not without amusement."There you are again, my lady...you sound more and more like one of the great poets with each word; I had no idea I could inspire you thus", he jested, taking a few steps away from her, but finding himself unable to look away. "As for chess...I should take you up on it, but not tonight", he said casually."I did not know you played", he added, purposely ignoring her mischievous grin.

[Ladypain]

"I certainly have a will to play and where the will is, there is also game." Celebrian approached a decorative elf sculpture thoughtfully looking over it. "I win more often then others give me credit for. In fact, I am so confident, I would propose to add a little risk element. Whoever loses one of the chess pieces loses a part of their outfit. Do you still wish to take me up on the offer?" She moved behind the sculpture placing her hand on it's shoulder and sliding another hand down the marble chest. Her eyes however never left the half-elf across the room. Purposely slow, seductive gestures gave away much to imagination, what it would be like to be petted in place of the sculpture. Celebrian waited for the answer.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond smiled, registering the seductive provocation;any other night, he thought to himself, and he would have succumbed, but this night was not for giving into temptation, even as irresistable as this.A light smile bloomed on his lips."I have never heard of chess played this way, my lady", he said calmly, "and I daresay it would be interesting..." he took one step towards her, as her hands stroke the surface of the statue decorating the other end of the room,"but I think such games are best left for another night...to be appreciated as they should be, at their fullest", he added boldly, watching Celebrian blush at the clear implication.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian blushed at the last comment but remained where she was keeping her hands on sculpture's shoulders. "Then should I bid you good night Master Elrond?" A selfish part of her wished for him to stay, especially that once he walked out he will be gone and she will not be able to walk with him to his room as close as it was her room. However she could not have him stay when he seemed so worn by the day's events. He needed rest and forgetfullness just for a moment. She smiled fondly as the memory when she fell asleep in his room by fireplace. They could not have a similar moment right now. "You circlet is on the chair. You don't want to forget it." She teased lightly.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond ignored her last comment about the circlet, already forgotten uopn the chair.He strolled over to her and took her in his arms. "I am in no hurry, my lady", he said softly, "nor am I as weary as I seem; and besides...I should think it my duty to stay with you until at least your cousin returns..."he paused, wondering where the Princess Ithildiel had gone off to; she had been gone for a while now, he nearly frowned, then his attention turned back to Celebrian. "It would neither be proper nor chivalrous to leave you all alone", he said placing a kiss upon her neck, feeling her skin burn at the touch of his lips.

[Aletheia]

Daewen
**************
Daewen sat in in the quiet of her office; grinning maliciously. Her plan was falling into place with a perfection that suprised even her. Despite the nausiating romances that seemed to be sparking all over the whole of Imladris, evil and hate would still triumph in the end. Perhaps she might even be able to use them to her advantage.
Yes, she thought cunningly, of course. Love and hope defered will make their hearts sick, she mused. And I will glory in their despair.
A soft, haunting laugh escaped her lips, freezing the air and stiffling the room with a cold, erie chill. She would have her way soon enough.

[Ladypain]

It would neither be proper nor chivalrous to leave you all alone", he said placing a kiss upon her neck, feeling her skin burn at the touch of his lips.

Celebrian pressed even closer to him. It was nothing but truth. "Stay until Ithildiel comes back." She asked softly. Now that he mentioned it she didn't want to remain alone in the empty rooms. Even the presence of sentries outside the door was not comforting. The danger she felt appered like a shadow, nearly not realistic and Celebrian did not beleive pure stength could protect them.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Stay until Ithildiel comes back."

Elrond held her close to him, sensing her worry; she needed to be comforted, a little voice whispered it softly in his mind...and he wanted no more but to hold her and take her fears away."I was not planning on leaving until she was back, my lady", he said softly, caressing her hair."But she should not wander on her own at this hour", he added frowning.He released Celebrian from his embrace unwillingly, making his way to the doors. A sentry stood there and Elrond sent him to find Ithildiel with a whisper, so that Celebrian might not hear, then returned to her,taking her in his arms again, as they settled in a sofa."You are safe here, my love", he said quietly, as she rested her head on his shoulder.

______________________________________________
Altenen

Altenen stretched out in the Marchwarden's office, relishing his new powers; technically, he had no right to be here, but, with Glorfindel under house arrest the temptation was too much to resist. He knew Elrond had no real choice in the matter; after Glorfindel,he, Altenen, was the best versed in the art of war and defence and the most appropriate to take over the position of the traitor.~Traitor~he thought, chuckling in the stillness of the room.Indeed, Glorfindel had fell into the trap Daewen had set for him with admirable ease. Silently, Altenen congratulated himself for his own part in that ruse.The Lord of Rivendell could not ignore the evidence, the stakes were too high for him to afford to do that, Altenen thought maliciously.He had already heard by the sentries outside Glorfindel's home-his men, each and everyone of them-that Elrond had been to visit his old friend and had even allowed him out of the basement where Altenen had ordered him kept.~Let the fools do what he will~he thought, stretching his legs across the desk leisurely~by the time all is over, I'll be the Lord here and Elrond and Glorfindel will be dead~.

A hasty knock on the door interrupted his musings.Altenen stood up, knowing something was wrong. A sentry stormed in, barely recalling to salute his superior."What is it?"Altenen asked, not even notincing the other;s remissiveness. "Sir, it's...Lord Glorfindel", the guard started; Altenen flinched at the reverence in his voice, despite Glorfindel's being already discredited."what of that traitor?" Altenen asked disdainfully."He...he appears to have escaped his quarters..." the sentry continued, after a brief pause. Altenen started. "What?How did this happen?Have you recaptured him?""No, sir, but...we're looking for him..."Altenen was livid; Glorfindel must not be allowed to escape, he thought coldly. "Seal off all entrances to the city; has Lord Elrond been notified yet?" The guard shook his head.Altenen nodded; he was not going to be the one to tell Elrond, he thought Daewen might prefer to do that herself and thus undermine Glorfindel even more. "Very well, return to the search; I'll inform the Lord and then meet you at the gates; make sure he does not leave the city!"

Altenen stepped out of the office, behind the guard and made his way to Daewen's home; the lights burnt brightly, revealing the councillor was far from asleep, despite the lateness of the hour.He knocked on her door and waited till it opened but a sliver; A pair of icy eyes faced him from within. "I have urgent news for you, my lady", he hissed, a wicked smile playing on his lips. "Your plan seems to be going even better than we had anticipated".

[EamaneSilimaure]

Daewen sat in her apartments gazing out at the night. Her plans were coming to a head. Everything was going perfectly. Glorfindel was imprisoned. A cold smile graced her beautiful features at the thought of that most honorable elf's pain at this betrayal. Now if only those idiot sentries had done what they were told and nothing more... The glamour she had put on them would hold until morning, and they would have no memory of their actions this night.

A sudden movement of elves towards the walls made malicious laughter fill the room. It had begun. A knock at the door stilled her laughter and she moved towards it silently, her dagger glinting in the moonlight. Opening it but a slit, she saw a gleeful Altenen awaiting her. Her lip curled in annoyance.

"I have urgent news for you, my lady", he hissed, a wicked smile playing on his lips. "Your plan seems to be going even better than we had anticipated".

Daewen opened the door more fully. "Get in here before someone sees you" she ordered coldly. When he rushed in, and looked him over, malice in her eyes. "Now what are you babbling about?" she asked icily.

"The traitor has fled," Altenen exclaimed.

Daewen stared at him. "Must I remind you that he was a fool, but we made him a traitor?" ~The idiot was beginning to believe his own lies.~

"That is no matter now my lady," Altenen said, his tone still gleeful, though subdued by her obvious disdain. "No one could think he was innocent now. He attacked the empty guest house, wounding one of my men."

Daewen sighed and turned away from him. Though her eyes glowed with hate her voice betrayed none of it. "Someone must tell Lord Elrond that his dearest friend has betrayed him in truth." She sounded sad and broken-hearted. Turning cold once more she faced Altenen. "Find Glorifindel," she said. "Find him, and bring him back to face the wrath of Elrond." She smiled wickedly. "If you do not..." She let him see the dagger in her hand shimmer in the moonlight before it disappeared from view again. She would have to kill him soon. He was outliving his usefulness. Her mind toyed with how to do it, bringing a smile to her face.

Altenen bowed low to her. "I will find him milady." He turned to go, ignoring the dagger. The witch would pay for this. She would see who was in charge here! He strode from her apartments.

Daewen watched him go, cold and fair as always. Taking a deep breath she called tears to her eyes. She must look appropriately panicked if she was to see Elrond this night. Realizing she must look as if she had been woken by this news, she changed into nightclothes, and a dressing gown. Then she hurried from her apartments. There were sentries running about the compound. She could have reprimanded a few for not acknowledging her, but chose to seem harried instead as she entered Elrond's home.

Going first to his bedchamber, she knocked. She forced her annoyance down behind the mask of worried fear, she tapped her foot, trying to think of where he would be at this hour. Her sharp ears picked up sounds in a room down the hall. Silently she moved towards it. Her eyes filled with tears as she knocked and without waiting for a response opened the door. To her shock, Elrond was there, with Princess Celebrian in his arms.

"Lord Elrond," she said, hiding her surprise. "There's been an... incident." She looked at the princess as if unsure she should say more in her presence. Inwardly Daewen was fuming. How could she have missed this? No matter. It would make Glorfindel's obvious betrayal when the princesses were taken all the more painful for the Elven Lord.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

A knock on the door, aleterd them, but there was no time to react. Elrond had not the time to push Celebrian away, nor she to move away from him, ere the door flung itself open, Daewen storming in the room, her lovely face streaked with tears. She paused,momentarily susprised by what she saw, but she was quick to hide her shock, as she spoke hastily. Elrond pushed Celebrian away gently, still reluctant to let go and rose to meet the Councillor.

"Lord Elrond," she said, hiding her surprise. "There's been an... incident."

The distress in her voice was palpable.Elrond frowned, concealing hiw own sudden worry. "What incident, my lady?"he asked, keeping his voice calm.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"What incident, my lady?"he asked, keeping his voice calm.

Daewen look pointedly at the Princess this time. "It is about Lord Glorfindel my lord," she said hesitantly. Was this chit already close enough to him to know about all this? It truly was time for the princesses to be gone from here. She hoped this Captain Sarnatelme was as good as Thalion said she was. She stepped further into the room. Elrond blocked her view of the Princess, so she was unable to judge the maiden's reaction.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"It is about Lord Glorfindel my lord,"

Elrond's eyes darkened."What of Glorfindel, Lady Daewen?" he asked,a million thoughts crossing his mind.~I hope Altenen has not tried to provoke him~he thought, more than a little furiously, knowing Glorfindel would not put up with that.~Else the Chief of Arms had best pray Glorfindel killed him,rather than deal with me!~Daewen's eyes darkened with the oncoming of more tears and Elrond cast a fleeting glance at Celebrian, seeking her support. "Has something happened to the Marchwarden?" he ventured to ask.

[EamaneSilimaure]

."What of Glorfindel, Lady Daewen?" he asked

Daewen let her eyes fill with tears again. Apparently the girl was staying. Very well, let her know the betrayal as well... and the danger she had narrowly avoided. Daewen wanted to laugh, but kept her mask in place.

"Has something happened to the Marchwarden?"

"He escaped my lord... and went to the guest house," she paused a moment, trying to judge their reaction. "Lord Altenen's troops caught him there but he fought and has disappeared." Sorrow etched her features. "I am sorry my lord," she whispered.

[Ladypain]

You are safe here, my love", he said quietly, as she rested her head on his shoulder.

Celebrian relaxed. The soothing words were believable in the loving embrace. Before she could fully believe a knock interrupted her and Elrond. Before either could react the door flung open with Lady Daewen appeared in the doorway. The councillor seemed nothing like elegantly dressed maiden who had chose her words twice before speaking them whom Ithildiel and Celebrian recently met. Tears were straining councillor's eyes, she was wearing a nightgown and overall was the picture of disarray.

"Lord Elrond," she said, hiding her surprise. "There's been an... incident."

The Lady stuttered just as dismayed as Celebrian and Elrond were when she saw them cuddled together on the sofa. Celebrian felt deep gratitude that Daewen made no remark about it.

What incident, my lady?"he asked, keeping his voice calm.

Elrond finally managed to disintangle from their hug and pushed Celebrian away. He stood from their seat making a barrier between Celebrian and Daewen.

"It is about Lord Glorfindel my lord,"

Celebrian could not see but heard the tears in Daewen's voice. Slight shift from the elf-Lord revealed the tension in his shoulders.

"Has something happened to the Marchwarden?"

Something irreperable was about to happen. Yet, she could do nothing to stop the truth.

"He escaped my lord... and went to the guest house," she paused a moment, trying to judge their reaction. "Lord Altenen's troops caught him there but he fought and has disappeared." Sorrow etched her features. "I am sorry my lord," she whispered.

With her heart sinking to the bottom on the stomach Celebrian rose from the seat to place her arm around Elrond for support. There was no point in hiding what the coucillor already knew. She sadly searched her lover's eyes. "You must go." Celebrian summarised for them. "I will be here." She added quietly in reassurance.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"He escaped my lord... and went to the guest house,"

Daewen paused and Elrond felt the gorund reced beneath his feet, but he motioned her to continue; it was evident on her face there was more to be said.

"Lord Altenen's troops caught him there but he fought and has disappeared.""I am sorry my lord,"

Elrond glanced over at Celebrian, standing a few paces behind him, her face drawn and pale at the pain she saw in his face.she came to him, wrapping her arms around him.Elrond placed his own hands over them; Daewen did not react, though it was plain to see she had guessed what was going on.

"You must go." Celebrian summarised for them. "I will be here."

Elrond nodded, ihs hands ever upon hers, feeling the warmth of them give n\him new strength."It seems I need to deal with this myself", he said, his voice but a whisper; he turned to Daewen, his face a mask of coldness. "The Marchwarden gave me his word he would not try to leave his quarters; by breaking it he has proven his guilt much more adequately than any amount of evidence would; I want him found and swiftly", he said coolly."I'll need to go down to the city walls myself and see to the investigations..."he paused, glancing over at Celebrian; he was reluctant to leave her, not until her cousin had returned, at least.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"You must go." Celebrian summarised for them. "I will be here."

Daewen could not help the astonishment she felt as the princess wrapped her arms around Elrond. It was too much. It really was. Evil laughter threatened to burst from her throat. So the poison Thalion had whispered in Thranduril's ear had seeds of truth in it after all! It would make every lie ring true. She had to close her eyes a moment to hide her glee.

."It seems I need to deal with this myself", he said, his voice but a whisper; he turned to Daewen, his face a mask of coldness. "The Marchwarden gave me his word he would not try to leave his quarters; by breaking it he has proven his guilt much more adequately than any amount of evidence would; I want him found and swiftly", he said coolly."I'll need to go down to the city walls myself and see to the investigations..."he paused, glancing over at Celebrian;

Daewen looked at the floor, her voice full of sorrow. "Who would have thought the Marchwarden..." She let her voice fade into the night. "Looking back at Elrond and the princess she smiled a little. "I will stay with the princess, if you wish it my lord." She wanted to find out just how close he was to the little blonde. Was there an alliance between Lorien and Rivendell on the horizen after all? The elf could feel the drums of war beat in her blood. It was coming.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond

"Who would have thought the Marchwarden..." "I will stay with the princess, if you wish it my lord."

Elrond nodded, smiling faintly."I would like that, my lady; Princess Ithildiel seems to have wandered off around the compound, but I have sent for her and she should be here momentarily, as well;" he paused, glancing at Celebrian."My lady", he said softly, I have to leave you for a while, but I leave you to good company", he tried to smile again, but failed; the news of Glorfindel's betrayal burnt through his heart, as he walked out in a hurry.

*************************
Ithildiel

Ithildien did not misss the sense of upheaval, even in the compound of the Lord of Rivendell, as she tried to find her way back to their chambers, hand unconsciously clasped over the pendant around her neck.~I hope I am not the cause of this~she thought nervously, worrie she had been missed more than she had anticipated.A sentry appeared in front of her suddenly, startling her. The elf bowed low. "My lady", he said, apologetically, "I am sorry to have startled you so; Lord Elrond sent me to look for you, he thought you might have got lost". Ithildiel nodded, grateful for the ready excuse provided her."I did", she muttered the lie, hoping she had not blushed.The guard nodded. "Allow me to escort you back", he said, motioning her ahead. Ithildiel walked off. ~If everyone is not looking for me, what's going on?~she wondered, but had a feeling the guard behind her would not tell her even if she asked.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Elrond nodded, smiling faintly."I would like that, my lady; Princess Ithildiel seems to have wandered off around the compound, but I have sent for her and she should be here momentarily, as well;"

Daewen nodded her agreement. Idly she wondered what the other Princess had been up to. Did she have a lover here as well?

."My lady", he said softly, I have to leave you for a while, but I leave you to good company", he tried to smile again, but failed; the news of Glorfindel's betrayal burnt through his heart, as he walked out in a hurry.

Daewen stepped out of his way and smiled faintly at the princess. "He gives me more credit than is my due, my lady." She gestured to the sofa. "May I sit with you? This night has been most troublesome." She sighed as if exhausted, though evil energy was thrumming through her. It was all going beautifully.

[Ladypain]

I will stay with the princess, if you wish it my lord.

"I very much appreciate that." Celebrian muttered appreciative of the councillor's selflessness.

"My lady", he said softly, I have to leave you for a while, but I leave you to good company", he tried to smile again, but failed.

Celebrian smiled at him tenderly, since a kiss might have been too much for the councillor to witness, before he walked out in a hurry. The circlet lay forgotten on the chair. The grief for his pain was overwhelming. Celebrian nevously picked up the circlet tucking it in the top drawer so no one else would see it in her room. Only then she could collect herself enough to face Lady Daewen who stood by the door in apparent shock.

He gives me more credit than is my due, my lady." She gestured to the sofa. "May I sit with you? This night has been most troublesome." She sighed as if exhausted.

The guilt for her selfishness taking control Celebrian crossed the room gently motioning the Lady towards an armchair. "Lady Daewen please have a seat. I'm terribly sorry. I cannot imagine how you got involved in such unpleasent incident at this late hour but it must be awful." Compassion glimmering in her eyes Celebrian found a warm robe in her closet before shyly offering the Lady to put it over the nightgown. The councillor was still shaking and tears unchecked flowed down her cheeks.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Daewen watched the princess pick up a mithril circlet from an armchair and tuck it away. A wave of rage swept through her and her hands clenched into fists. She knew that piece! She had meant for it to adorn her own brow when she became Queen of Rivendell, and now this spineless twit had it!

She cherished the thought of this princess bound, gagged and beated in the coming days. The brainless girl handed her a robe and motioned her to the sofa. Daewen slipped into it, sniffling delicately.

"Lady Daewen please have a seat. I'm terribly sorry. I cannot imagine how you got involved in such unpleasent incident at this late hour but it must be awful."

Daewen noted the weak compassion in pale blue eyes. That this... this... princess should feel pity for her rankled. Soon. Soon Galadriel's spawn would face true power, and kneel before it. Daewen hugged the thought to her, as she smiled tentatively and swiped the tears from her cheeks with the sleeve of the robe.

"Forgive me," she managed. "I was awakened by a frantic sentry with this news and rather than keep him from his duties I offered to bring the news myself to Lord Elrond." When Celebrian too her hand to comfort, she added, "I did not expect to find him here with you." Her voice was shy, her face full of innocent curiosity, perfectly willing to drop the subject if the Princess so wished.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

Celebrian helped the Lady to settle against pillows then took a cold hand into her own trying to sooth the councillor. Once again she found appreciation of the she-elf who had volunteered to bring Elrond the sad news.

I was awakened by a frantic sentry with this news and rather than keep him from his duties I offered to bring the news myself to Lord Elrond." When Celebrian too her hand to comfort, she added, "I did not expect to find him here with you."

Celebrian blushed. "We were asked to move from the guest house today without specific explanation." She volunteered shyly. Now she was fully aware of the reasons. "It was rather unsettling. Lord Elrond was concerned and he came to see whether we were all right." The tips of her ears began to burn. "Ithildiel went to check whether we forgot anything in the guest house and so I was alone." Celebrian shifted uneasily uncertain whether it was necessary to speak of her insecurities. "I am deeply sorry to have surprised you so." She glanced at Daewen almost expecting to be scorned. "Please beleive in purity of my feelings. I would never exploit them."

Altenen

The light of shifting torches shone brightly in the disturbed city. Few scared elven faces sleepily peeked out of the windows upset by the endless commotion and shouts of Altenen’s guards who were not going to do the task quietly. The more know of Glorfindel’s treachery the faster they would see and give away the traitor, Altenen reasoned. “Be sure to bring the traitor to me first when he is found. Not even Lord Elrond would see him before I do.” He instructed the sentries.
“Yes Chief.” The elf bowed.
Altenen corrected him sternly. “Marchwarden. That is what I should be called.”
The elf nodded reluctantly slipping away as fast as he could without actually giving Chief that title.
The Chief’s eyes darkened into the ink pools of hatred. Whatever punishment Elrond would issue will never be satisfactory. He, Altenen had to find the cursed elf before anyone did. Their deception might clear one day but it will be too late. The Chief had to make sure that Glorfindel would never return to duty. His lips twisted into malicious grin. Daewen wanted to see the elf humiliated and scorned with shame but Altenen could not care less for her wishes. Once Glorfindel is found and brought to Altenen the elf will return to the Halls of Mandos from which he should never have being released. Then the Chief would sadly report to Elrond that the traitor was unwillingly killed by his sentries due to resistance in the line of duty.
Suddenly Altenen noticed that none other than Lord Elrond is walking towards him. Once the elf-Lord came closer Altenen bowed deeply hiding the malicious grin. So, Daewen had done her part quickly. He rose to meet the Lord who probably was awakened from his bed considering the appearance. “You should not trouble yourself with the tasks My Lord. We have everything under control and the traitor will soon be found.” He reported.

Glorfindel

Glorfindel stopped abruptly allowing a silent group of Lorien sentries to pass by the temporary hiding place near the gardens. He breathed in deeply trying to calm the heart’s violent beating. The drumming of which in the ears was not helping to lose those who were after him. Ironically, the sanctuary he served to protect for hundreds of years was no longer a safe place for him to remain in. Glorfindel was forced to flee. He would, no he could not face the accusing glance of a life long friend who undoubtedly will find him guilty. Such thoughts were pushed away relentlessly. Unless he wished to be caught he must concentrate on escape.

The main gate was undoubtedly already sealed but it would take a while to block all the smaller exits. Aware of the slightest motion near him Glorfindel made way to the farthest exit in the gardens. Abandoning shadows he moved towards the small gate praying thanks that it was still unguarded when a handle twitched. He barely had time to hide behind nearest tree when two elves walked in from the other side and locked it. They did not look like they were about the leave. Hopeful their conversation might muffle the sounds Glorfindel climbed upwards into the tree which branches arched higher than the wall. All the elves had to do was look up while he walked on the branch right above them. He passed the distance separating the tree and the wall making a jump from one to the other. “Halt!” Disobeying the order Glorfindel slid down onto the other side holding on to the top of the wall then released his grip. The impact with the ground stunned him wasting the precious moments but the elves fumbled with the keys while opening the gate. Again he ran under protection of the forest. Several arrows were released to catch him before both elves rushed back to report the escape from the city.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond hastened to the city gates without pausing; all around, the sentries and the entire army of Rivendell, it seemed, had been mobilised. His breath caught at this new verification of his initial suspicions: Daewen had only known what was the tip of the iceberg; there was more to Glorfindel's escape, much more apparently. He spotted Altenen standing at the city gates, issuing orders; the gates themselves lay shut, but Elrond knew Glorfindel well enough to know he did not need them to make an escape; he sensed the Marchwarden was already gone and tried to ignore how this betrayal made him feel.Altenen stepped up to greet him.

“You should not trouble yourself with the tasks My Lord. We have everything under control and the traitor will soon be found.” He reported.

Elrond looked at him coldly, keeping his face deliberately expressionless."I have every faith in your abilities, Chief", he said coolly, "but, given the situation, I thought it best to assume command of things myself.And first of all...tell me what happened, if you please;all the details. How did Glorfindel get past his guards in the first place?"

[Ladypain]

Altenen showed no sign of annoyance. He was prepared to do anything to get Elrond away from the investigation at least for this night. "I am honored by your trust." He lied. "Today the guards were left by the Princess' guest house. Two of them noticed strange motion near the bedroom window. When they went to investigate they found someone inside. They were uncertain what to do when they discovered it was Glorfindel however he attacked them and then fled through front door once he received a knife wound.The Lothlorien sentries saw him as well." Altenen gestured faking sadness. "It was hard to beleive My Lord so I ordered someone to check the place where the traitor was previously kept under arrest." Altenen paused dramatically collecting his breath. "He had left his home through the window. I'm sorry." Altenen could not identify with certainty whether he noticed the elf-Lord flinch. "I can arrange for you to speak with the sentries who fough with him if you wish." He said.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"I am honored by your trust." He lied. "Today the guards were left by the Princess' guest house. Two of them noticed strange motion near the bedroom window. When they went to investigate they found someone inside. They were uncertain what to do when they discovered it was Glorfindel however he attacked them and then fled through front door once he received a knife wound.The Lothlorien sentries saw him as well."

Elrond nodded, his heart throbbing again. This betrayal hurt him more than he cared to admit."So, he is injured", he said flatly, voicing his thoughts.His plea for an escape made him all the more guiltier in the Lord's eyes.Altenen looked at him curiously, but Elrond's face was still unreadable."That should slow him down, make your men easier to catch up to him", he said at last. "Make sure he is caught befope the end of the night". He motioned Altenen to continue; it seemed there was more to say.

"It was hard to beleive My Lord so I ordered someone to check the place where the traitor was previously kept under arrest." Altenen paused dramatically collecting his breath. "He had left his home through the window. I'm sorry."

Elrond tried to kep from flinching, knowing full well he had been unsuccessful. Glorfindel had indeed broken his word to him and fled, where he had promised to remain...Elrond puched the thought aside, for the time being."It's a good thing I had the princesses moved to my own compound this morning, else they might have been endangered now", he said quietly. "Masks have fallen, it seems, and treason revealed", he sighed.

"I can arrange for you to speak with the sentries who fough with him if you wish."

"There is no need for that now; those sentries are better served looking for him for the time being", Elrond said."You need to secure not only the gates, but also the other entries to the city, mountains included; and keep the search quiet", he added, his eyes darkening, "at least till morning. No need to alarm the entire city".

[Ladypain]

"I will do as you say. I have ordered someone to take care of all exits. Some sentries patrol the wall on the other side." Altenen bragged. "They would notice if anyone tried to leave. Glorfindel is still in the city and we will find him however it might take the entire night. Perhaps it would be better for you to rest until we find him." Altenen suggested cautiously.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

I will do as you say. I have ordered someone to take care of all exits. Some sentries patrol the wall on the other side." Altenen bragged. "They would notice if anyone tried to leave. Glorfindel is still in the city and we will find him however it might take the entire night. Perhaps it would be better for you to rest until we find him."

Elrond shook his head. "I need no rest;I shall enhance the compound guard. just in case he somehow comes back for his targets", he said coolly, keeping his innermost thoughts to himself; he still could not bring himself to terms with Glorfindel's betrayal and his heart ached for it; he had been the best friend he had ever had, he thought bitterly."You should check the city perimeter, as well, nbot just the city; Glorfindel is not to be underestimated". Altenen nodded; there was an odd glimmer in his eyes and Elrond frowned. "Altenen, Glorfindel is to be taken alive", he said tensely. "There had best be no...accidents similar to our duel when you apprehend him".~If you can find him~the thought danced unbidden in his mind.

[Ladypain]

Altenen frowned. How did the peredhel guess what he was thinking? "There will be no accidents." He assured Elrond certain that he will kill Glorfindel before the next sunrise. "My Lord if you insist to supervise the search allow two elves to escort you." Altenen faked concern. He had to prove to Elrond he could be trusted. "It may not be safe for you to wonder around the city alone." The words rang with sincere appology reminding of their recent fight. "We cannot risk another injury to you." The gestures were filled with true regret but the regret was for not killing the elf-Lord.
"Chief Altenen!" Two sentries came running towards them. They held abruptly recognising Elrond and turned to the half-elf to speak. Altenen gritted his teeth. "Lord Glorfindel has escaped the city near the gardens gate. We saw him jumping over the wall. We could not stop him from running into the forest." They looked at the ground guiltily.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"There will be no accidents."

Elrond caught the metal in Altenen's voice. "There had best be none, Altenen", he said coolly,his voice leaving little doubt as to what would happen if there were.

"My Lord if you insist to supervise the search allow two elves to escort you." Altenen faked concern. He had to prove to Elrond he could be trusted. "It may not be safe for you to wonder around the city alone." The words rang with sincere appology reminding of their recent fight. "We cannot risk another injury to you."

Elrond looked at him steadily."I think I can fend for myself in my own realm, Altenen", he said nonchalantly. "No guards will be necessary, though I do apprecaite the concern". Altenen was struggling to ohard to prove his worth, Elrond thought, almost unconsciously; he hoped to take over the position left empty by Glorfindel's treason...but he needn't worry; there were none capable enough for the task and he might well be the only candidate,he thought grimly.

Two elven sentires came running up to Altenen, greeting him, but as they saw the Lord of Rivendell, they turned to him, bowing....Elrond was quick to notice they kept their eyes to the ground as they spoke.

"Lord Glorfindel has escaped the city near the gardens gate. We saw him jumping over the wall. We could not stop him from running into the forest."

Elrond looked at them for a moment in silence, then nodded."I doubt there was much you could do to stop him", he said reassuringly; it was true: Glorfindel was more skilled than almost the entire army of Rivendell put together; he as a match for all of them.Elrond turned to Altenen again."Have the men secure the city; he has not achieved his goal, he might come back to do that.I'll take men out to the lands leading to Bruinen and look for him;the river will keep him from getting too far", he added, seeing Altenen was ready to argue the point; in his mind, the flood safeguarding Rivendell on the river front was already releashed to prevent any escape; Vilya, concealed from anyone's sight, glimmered dully in the moonlight with an ice cold light, all its own.

[Ladypain]

"I will not allow you to leave in the middle of the night even with one of the search parties, whether you can or cannot take care of yoruself!" Altenen desperately grabbed elf-Lord's arm ignoring the frown. It was the last attempt to keep Elrond away long enough to do the deed. "No one in this city will forgive me until the end of Arda if anything happens to you. Please remain here. I will gladly lead the search outside the city." Altenen inwardly cringed. For a moment he sounded like Glorfindel.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Celebrian blushed. "We were asked to move from the guest house today without specific explanation." She volunteered shyly. Now she was fully aware of the reasons. "It was rather unsettling. Lord Elrond was concerned and he came to see whether we were all right." The tips of her ears began to burn. "Ithildiel went to check whether we forgot anything in the guest house and so I was alone." Celebrian shifted uneasily uncertain whether it was necessary to speak of her insecurities. "I am deeply sorry to have surprised you so." She glanced at Daewen almost expecting to be scorned. "Please beleive in purity of my feelings. I would never exploit them."

Daewen had to bite the inside of her cheek to keep herself from smirking at this outpouring of emotion. It also aided her in keeping the tears standing in her eyes. She smiled softly at the Princess. "Of course you wouldn't my lady," she murmured squeezing the girl's hand. ~You aren't that smart.~ she thought derisively. She looked away from the girl as if afraid to say anything more. "Does he... does he feel the same way about you?" she asked softly.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond shook his arm free of Altenen's grip."I think you are forgetting who it is you're addressign, Altenen", he said coolly."I have been fighting battles while you were but an elfling; I can assure you Glorfindel will be no threat, especially if he's injured, as you say.On the other hand, my going out there might lure him out", he continued impatiently, quite reluctant to have to stand and explain his motivation to anyone right now."I appreciate your concern, Altenen", he continued, seeking to assuage the other's obvious uneasiness, "but it is I who must go out there and no other.You make sure the city is sealed; Lord Erestor and Lady Daewen will handle the people once the news is out".He turned to leave; he needed to prepare.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

Of course you wouldn't my lady," she murmured squeezing the girl's hand.

Celebrian felt a surge of hope. Lady Daewen was exceptionally understanding but perhaps if she did not condemn her feelings others would not either. She may yet have the support. "Thank you for believing me." Celebrian said passionately. "May the Valar grant you fair reward for all the kindness you have shown towards others dear Lady."

Does he... does he feel the same way about you?

Daewen turned away uncertain whether she should ask such personal question. Exactly why Celebrian wanted to answer truthfully. Yet, something stopped her from answering directly. She did not doubt his love but she could not speak of it before others, for now. "He...Lord Elrond is a mystery to me." She searched for balance. "He knows how to hide his emotions. I look into his eyes and sometimes encounter frost but there is a world behind that curtain. You know what I speak of." She smiled at the councilor. "You probably know Lord Elrond since the foundation of Rivendell." Celebrian said not even trying to hide her curiosity.

Altenen

I can assure you Glorfindel will be no threat, especially if he's injured, as you say.On the other hand, my going out there might lure him out. I appreciate your concern, Altenen", he continued, seeking to assuage the other's obvious uneasiness, "but it is I who must go out there and no other.You make sure the city is sealed; Lord Erestor and Lady Daewen will handle the people once the news is out".He turned to leave.

"As you wish." Altenen threw a spiteful glare at the back of retreating elf-Lord. Not only was Elrond going out to search for his enemy but also Altenen was stuck inside the city like a hopeless maiden to wait for the news. No matter, he assured himself with the usual arrogance. There were more search parties than one. His people had higher chances to find Glorfindel first and bring him back to the city into his hands. All the talk of sealing the city was foolish and Altenen was not going to do it. Glorfindel is probably trying to cowardly run away as far as he can. He would never dare to come back to Rivendell by choice.

Altenen could not resist returning to the office which now was his. He destroyed all belongings of the previous owner and frisked every drawer for anything that could be useful to him. When he searched the desk a small glimmer in the top drawer caught his eye. In awe Altenen pulled out an intricate golden hairclip shaped like a flower, a symbol of the house Glorfindel used to belong to. Altenen moved to the light admiring the play of fire on the expensive piece. He remembered this object. When Glorfindel returned from the Halls of Mandos he had nothing on him except that hairclip. It was the only thing left to him from the Gondolin and his previous life. Obviously the clip meant a world to the elf. In fact, Glorfindel will be devastated if that little thing got melted in the fireplace. Malicious grin twisted his lips. Altenen stretched his hand prepared to throw the hairclip into the fire when a loud knock interrupted him.

The Cheif superstitiously pulled his hand back tossing the hairclip into the drawer. "Enter!" He called louder than necessary. No one came in but the knock came again. "I said, you may come in!" Another knock louder than others. "What are you deth or something?" Altenen went towards the door flinging it open. No one was behind it. Swearing a horrible revenge of a practical joker Altenen ran to the end of the hall to the outside door but found no one. Grumbling he returned to the office only to find another elf there. Despire the cloak Altenen recognised the unremarkable plain features of that pasky elf who worked with Glorfindel. "You spider tell me where your master is!" The Chief lunged foreward to arrest the intruder but the elf avoided him grabbing the hairclip and adroitly jumped out the window. "Give that back or you will regret it!" Altenen bellowed following the elf's jump. Something caught his foot and he came tumbling down on the ground. Of course the intruder was long gone before Altenen got to his feet. Muttering horrible curses Altenen returned to extract his revenge on the office.

Beliwedat

Beliwedat easily escaped the pursuit. He couldn't help the smirk when he heard a loud crash behind him. Getting chased by Altenen was about the same as running away from a hoard of oliphants. Both made the same amount of noise. He knew exactly what he needed to do when the news of Glorfindel's escape reached him. Beliwedat swallowed nervously. He was nearly too late but he did save what was important. He guessed correctly what Altenen might do.

The elf crept through the familiar streets away from the glowing torches into the quiet part of the city that was not yet disturbed by the seach. After he was sure no one was inside Beliwedat entered the healing wards, easily finding Eamane's healing wing in the dark. He nimbly placed the hairclip into her medical kit. His friend and leader will be back, Beliwedat was certain of that. This would give her hope and let Glorfindel know Eamane is not the only one who believed him.

Glorfindel

Having evaded the arrows Glorfindel sensed the guards returned to the city to report his escape and to organise the search parties. He thanked them for trying to shoot his feet. They could have killed him if they aimed elsewhere. He dull ache in his side was spreading but he had no spare moments to deal with the wound. The search party will track him to their bank of Bruinen but from there he will make sure they would find no trail.

Calm surface of the water glimmered through the trees. Glorfindel without hesitation stepped into the stream. It was not as shallow as crossing at the Ford but he could not go there. He was a third way across when the water became more turbulent rising to his waist and then creeping to the chest level. Knowing the river could become violent Glorfindel turned back since the other bank was still too far. There was only someone he knew who could do this to the river. Elrond already found out about his escape. Too early! He lost his footing and the violent current pulled the struggling elf along when he was only few steps away from the bank.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Thank you for believing me." Celebrian said passionately. "May the Valar grant you fair reward for all the kindness you have shown towards others dear Lady."

Daewen felt her gorge rise in her throat. That anyone still had such foolish faith was beyond stupid in her eyes. Morgoth was the only Valar she believed in anymore, and only he could give her true power.

"He...Lord Elrond is a mystery to me." She searched for balance. "He knows how to hide his emotions. I look into his eyes and sometimes encounter frost but there is a world behind that curtain. You know what I speak of." She smiled at the councilor. "You probably know Lord Elrond since the foundation of Rivendell." Celebrian said not even trying to hide her curiosity.

Daewen smiled at this. "I have known him for some time, yes. Lord Elrond is a mystery to us all my lady. He must be, in order to remain as he has for so long." That this girl had gotten past that curtain was obvious... but how far past? Did she hold his heart? "You seem to have gotten... close to him in a short time my lady." ~And soon... very soon... it will be the loss of you that brings war to Elrond, whether he wishes it or not!~

[Ladypain]

You seem to have gotten... close to him in a short time my lady.

"I'm afraid I may be a poor judge of that considering I have not met Lord Elrond before this visit to Rivendell." Celebrian shrugged a bit nervous. She was getting uncomfortable with the line of conversation which lead to her and Elrond. This reminded her of the conversation between Ithildiel and Lady Sarnatelme. Certainly Lady Daewen was a councillor and she might have worried from the perspective of war. With the shock of the news and Lady's appearance in her quarters settled Celebrian began to sense there was more than compassion or pure curiosity in Daewen's words. "Would you like something to drink?" She asked trying to shift the conversation away from the questions that made her blush as well as she still worried for the councilor. Daewen barely stopped crying. "I can ask for the tea or perhaps a glass of wine would help to settle the nerves?"

[EamaneSilimaure]

"I'm afraid I may be a poor judge of that considering I have not met Lord Elrond before this visit to Rivendell."

Now the chit get's evasive. No matter. This time tomorrow she would be far from here, and the fury of War will have swept up in the city. Daewen smiled, trying to ease the girl's mind. "Sometimes things such as this happen quickly."

The Princess released her hand and stepped away. Daewen resolved to drop the subject. No use making the girl suspicious.

"Would you like something to drink?" She asked trying to shift the conversation away from the questions that made her blush as well as she still worried for the councilor. Daewen barely stopped crying. "I can ask for the tea or perhaps a glass of wine would help to settle the nerves?"

"Tea would be lovely my lady," Daewen said, starting to stand up. "But I can call for it. You are a guest here. Please sit." Truth be told she hoped the other one would get here soon. The conversation had lost all interest for her. "I hope you do not think that our city is in such a poor state all the time my lady. Until all this... there was nowhere more peaceful. The threat of war hangs heavy over everything these days." She moved towards the door as if to call for a servant.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond

"As you wish."

Elrond could see the expression in Altenen's face, even as he walked away. THe Chief-At-Arms' thoughts were an open book to him; Altenen wanted to be the one to bring Glorfindel back...and most likely, not alive.Elrond frowned at the thought;Glorfindel would answer to him before anything like this happened, he thought dismally.A surge of power, cold and sweeping every thought, rushed through him:someone had tried to cross the river guarding Rivendell, whose water's were the Lord's to command.~Glorfindel~he thought, not a doubt in his mind.~And he has failed~came the afterthought.Elrond picked up his pace; he needed to be ready to move out of the city at first light.


***********************
Ithildiel

The sentry led her through the compound unspeaking;Ithildiel noticed there were a lot of elves running about, in full battle gear, not without some alarm.She cast an anxious glance at her escort, but he did not return it.Passing through large corridors and halls in a hurry, they came at last outside the quarters granted them by Lord Elrond.Ithildiel heard her cousin's voice, as the guard bowed and left her with those appointed to guard her and Celebrian.Ithildiel looked at them, but their faces were purposely unreadable;she pushed the door open and went in.Lady Daewen was there, and despite her cool facade, it was obvious she was distraught;Celebrian was pale as a sheet.Ithildiel stepped towards them."Is all well?"she asked, somehow sure the commotion outside and Lady Daewen's presence in their chambers at this hour were closely related."What brings you here at this hour, Lady Daewen?And what is this ruckus outside?"

[EamaneSilimaure]

Before the princess could answer there was a noise at the door. Both Daewen and Celebrian turned to look as the princess Ithildiel came in. ~finally!~ Daewen wanted to go out and see what her handiwork had wrought on the city.

Ithildiel stepped towards them."Is all well?"she asked, somehow sure the commotion outside and Lady Daewen's presence in their chambers at this hour were closely related."What brings you here at this hour, Lady Daewen?And what is this ruckus outside?"

"Unfortunately," Daewen said softly, "All is not well." She paused, as if struggling against tears. Inwardly, hateful laughter echoed in her mind. "Lord Glorfindel was nearly apprehended breaking into your former quarters my lady. He has since escaped. The guards search for him even now." She tried for a tremulous smile. "I brought such news to Lord Elrond personally, and was asked to remain with the princess until your return." She forced herself not to immediately ask to leave. She would stay, until both these weaklings had contented themselves with her well-being.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Unfortunately," Daewen said softly, "All is not well." She paused, as if struggling against tears. Inwardly, hateful laughter echoed in her mind. "Lord Glorfindel was nearly apprehended breaking into your former quarters my lady. He has since escaped. The guards search for him even now." She tried for a tremulous smile. "I brought such news to Lord Elrond personally, and was asked to remain with the princess until your return."

Ithildiel looked at the lady councillor, as if not believing her ears.~So, that's why the whole army seems to be in such an uproar~she thought uneasily.Uncosciously almost,her hand touched the necklace Legolas had given her;Glorfindel must have been in the guest house shortly after she had left, she thought, a shudder running down her spine;she would have been no match for him if she had still been there, she thought, but something did not feel right with that manner of thinking:why would the Marchwarden of Rivendell act this way?She caught Daewen and her cousin look at her curiously."I was at the guest house, but saw noone", she explained, flushing at the lie."Then I came for a walk in the gardens of Lord Elrond's compound and got lost...but I heard the tumult on the way here..."She paused, trying to smile at the councillor. "I thank you for keeping my cousin company,Lady Daewen", she changed the subject, wondering suddenly if Daewen had walked in on Celebrian and Lord Elrond.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Daewen watched the dark-haired princess for a reaction. Fear spiked in blue eyes, and the girl's hand reached as if unbidden to a jewel around her neck. It was a mithril necklace, very fine, with a leaf of the clearest golden stone as it's centerpiece. She had never seen the like of it before. Certainly not around this maiden's neck. The twit shivered and spoke.

I was at the guest house, but saw noone", she explained, flushing at the lie."Then I came for a walk in the gardens of Lord Elrond's compound and got lost...but I heard the tumult on the way here..."She paused, trying to smile at the councillor. "I thank you for keeping my cousin company,Lady Daewen"

Daewen wondered at the origin's of such a... beautiful piece of jewelry. Why would the girl be wearing it at such an hour? Then it came to her. So this one had a lover as well. How quaint. Their first journey beyond their own borders and they had let their hearts be claimed. Had this one aimed as high as her cousin? "It was no trouble my lady," Daewen said, curtseying as best she could in a dressing gown. "Now that you are here I can stay or go as it pleases you both." She looked back and forth between them, as if loath to leave them alone even now.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"It was no trouble my lady," Daewen said, curtseying as best she could in a dressing gown. "Now that you are here I can stay or go as it pleases you both."

Lady Daewen seemed positively more distraught then ever, try to mask it as she might;Ithildiel thought the councillor's eyes strayed to the pendant, but she was not sure;nonetheless, she made no mention of it.Ithildiel tried to look calm,mostly for her cousin's sake."I thank you nonetheless, my lady", she smiled faintly."We would like your company, if you're not too tired and if you would not rather retire and get some rest...The choice is yours", she gave her a friendly smile.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

Celebrian was about to insist for Daewen to sit down when Ithildiel came in. Celebrian never felt more guilt and relief at the same time. What if something happened to her cousin while she was outside. Ithildiel was not alone of course because she was away for so long. She had Legolas and then guard found her. Still Celebrian should have asked more sentries to search for her cousin as soon as Daewen showed up.

Now that you are here I can stay or go as it pleases you both.

Lady Daewen brough her out of stuppor.
"Are you sure you will be all right?" Celebrian protested. "You could stay in our company if you would like. Otherwise we could walk with you to your rooms with an escort."

Glorfindel

The river toyed with the elf, bringing him closer to the shore just to pull him back when Glorfindel thought he could climb out. The collection of whirlpools pulled him underwater just to push him out when he was out of breath. ~Bruinen don’t be so cruel to me! You know I’m not your enemy.~ Something sharp scraped his knee and he instinctively reached out finally grabbing a rock close to the shore. Taking a deep breath and grabbing onto the objects secure to the riverbed the elf finally managed to reach the bank. Weary of another bleeding cut on his leg Glorfindel climbed farther away from the river which began to calm ready to surprise another unaware victim. The night air seemed warm in comparison to the water that chilled him to the bones. It was hard to move the numb limbs. The elves are resilient to such cold. They could only feel it when they were ill. Glorfindel staggered to his feet trying to ignore the implications. There was nothing he could do to help the situation, not even light a fire. The search parties will be looking for him near the river. He had to move on.