RPG: Sword From the Sheath

[Gatsby]

With a final shock of light splaying out across the sky like greedy golden fingers, the sun shown out its goodbyes and plunged beneath the horizon. One by one the birds began to fall silent, the frogs and crickets qucik to take their place. The first stars shown daringly despite the rogue bands of light... they fought one another for the skies, but night would prevail and. It will unfold itself conpletly within the hour.
"So my candle is snuffed out..." a mirthless voice muttered, regarding the retreating light with little amusement. He had hoped to get farther than he had, to at least the border of the forest. Despite traveling by himself Alogoss was had made good time, but finally he was perhaps half a days ride off from his final destination. He could almost feel Lothlorien now, its presence playing lightly on his skin like water and wind. But it would rouse no joy from him, only the cold pangs of dread. It was not the journey to Lothlorien that troubled Alogoss (at least now as he was fairly certain he was far enough from the wood to consider himself 'safe') no, it was the business there that weighed heavily on his heart mind and body. Honestly, why had Thranduil sent him? Negotiations were hardly his area of expertise… not anymore, not for… he couldn’t even remember how long. His brow furrowed as he calculated, at least three centuries for certain. He was an established craftsmen now, more interested in sword forging than sword play. Surely Legolas or one of the captains would be better suited to handle such important matters, any logical being could see that!

Mithril and boundary lines whirled dizzyingly about his head
"How will i get this all sorted?"As if on cue a calm wind blew in from the North East, from Mirkwood. Alogoss mechanically glanced over his shoulder, feeling the wind roll off his face. He smiled reminded that he was there to fight for Mirkwood, the home he genuinely and truly loved. He would do anything for their realm and he would not to allow Lothlorien take away what was so obviously rightfully theirs, not without a fight. He nodded resolutely to himself and slid down from his mount, he could not remember whether the Galadhrim patrolled this far out, but he cared little whether he was found or not. He would make camp here tonight and enter the Golden Wood midday tomorrow with his head held high and his anxieties well hidden. He would not fail his people.

[Wilwarin]

Rúmil strapped his quiver and his pack on his back and quickly strung his bow. Then he made his way through Caras Galadhon on his way to his scouting trip. He would be gone for several days. He was glad actually. He liked being out in the woods much better—not that Caras Galadhon wasn't the woods. But there were too many other elves living in the area. He liked the lonely feeling of the forest far from where anyone lived. He liked to hear the sounds of the birds in the trees, the sounds of water trickling and the plants growing, without the sounds of voices mixed in.

Rúmil kept a sharp eye out for his brothers. He wanted to avoid them this time. This time he wanted to go scouting alone, though one or both of them usually accompanied him. He just felt like being alone today.

[Melathwen]

Aelin looked about her, wondering what the time was. She had never been particularly good at wood craft, despite being a wood elf, a thing she was often teased about. She could not track to save her life, and though she did well enough at fighting, she was not exceptional. Everything in her life seemed to be bland, of late. Not boring, exactly, but it lacked the spice and flavour that she had loved. The colour seemed to have gone out of everything she did, lending it a dullness she could not abide. So why not do something to change it?

Aelin had always been headstrong, often to the point where many would call it foolishness, but she had never cared for such opinions. She did what she wanted, and paid whatever price came her way afterwards. She cared little for such things, but endured them. She had no choice, doing as she wanted all the time. A thing which had often got her into hot water with her teachers.

So, what could she do to change her life, to bring the sparkle back into it? Hunt? That would prbably have been the answer for most of her friends, but they were good trackers and better shots with a bow. She was, when compared, neither. So she would have to do something else. But what?

There was little at home that she could change. Every day carried the same routine, to the point that she wearied of it, longing to do something drastic to stir the peace and excite something within her, something that called to her stubborn streak and demanded she do something adventurous, something she had never done before.

Leave. The word entered her thoughts, and try as she might to dismiss it as something even she would define as foolish, it stayed there, putting forth roots and growing as many of the plants she had tended during her life had. The more she tried not to think of it, the more she found herself doing so, and the more she thought of it, the more strength it gained, whispering through her mind. Taking control.

Aelin felt her feet taking her to places she had never seen before, to trees that she did not know and streams whose music she had never heard. Through glades and valleys she traveled, not growing weary, but with every step she made growing more and more excited and the sense of anticipation swelling. She was glad she carried her weapons with her, those that she could use, but she had very little else. Not even a cloak.

[ranehdel]

Ranehdel had been camping that night and thought about the past days events.
He had been helping men and elves of his own kind fighting a dark force when he succeeded. He had reached the top of the mountain and claimed victory for his side...alone. As soon as the battle was won both men and elves threw him out and gave him no recognition. He had jumped on his horse and ridden, not knowing where, maybe to the rangers, maybe to somewhere where he once had known as a happy place, but that was all dark now.

The rangers were always fair to him, they always welcomed him as their own. He never had a people " ", or known anyone who called him his friend, his history was scewed and he tried to forget it.

Ran (for short) setteld for the night building a fire and collecting food for his horse, he had lembadas from a time helping the Lady of the Woods, for he was knwon for hleping whoever employeed him he was thinking of trying to go back to where he grew up when he heard a noise, someone else was approaching him. Hand on sword hilt he knew now was not the time to go back, why would he? His friends were killed, his fair elven maiden was killed, all by one force, which he was out to find.

Ran hid in the dark and waited for the mysterious elf to approach. Aelin was walking trying to keep herself company, when ran followed her. He listened to her conversation debating wheter to go back, glad ot have her swords, and wishing to have a companion. Finally she settled for hte night and Ran took refuge in a tree. Make him self known to this fair elf, or hide in seclusion and go about his way. He couldn't decide on anything except to sleep for the night.

[Melathwen]

Haldir ran through the trees above his brother, wondering what Rúmil was doing. He felt strange, to be watching his brother so, so he ran ahead, dropped down among the trees where Rúmil would not see and waited for him, head cocked to one side and his eyebrows raised questioningly.

'Where are you going, little brother?' Haldir asked, nothing at all of parental concern in his voice, merely mild curiosity, he was sure. He smiled as Rúmil jumped, obviously not having realised Haldir was there. Well, they had practiced sneaking up on each other many times when they were young, and Haldir employed those skills liberally.

[Wilwarin]

Rúmil sighed and rolled his eyes when he saw that it was his older brother. Then he pushed passed him with mock annoyance. "I'm leaving for a scouting trip, what does it look like? It's my turn, remember?" He hid a smile as he walked away from Haldir. He really wasn't angry with him, but he had to play the part. Though, he had been planning on going on the scouting trip alone...He hoped Haldir wasn't panning on going along.

[Friend of Maglor]

Elenara Rananar Mellonndil.....no.....Oruthwen was better...much better... or Mordae...she liked that name.

A tall she-elf richly clad in wine-colored robes, lay sprawled on the mossy ground near a deep pool. Her black hair fell about her in waves, spread on the ground like puddles of ink. She was murmuring darkly to herself, going over all of the names she had amassed in her history. to long of one she thought blackly.

She was in the last place she had ever expected to be, Mirkwood. Among the peoples she had looked down on throughout her life. And she was bitter.

Two thousand years…has it really been two-thousand years since I have seen the Sea? she was sick of wandering, sick of remembering, sick of guilt, and sick of others…. Why didn’t they all just leave?

“Damn Middle Earth” she spat decisively. Then rose and stalked off towards the palace. She scowled….but only to hide her tears.

[Melathwen]

'Of course, tôrneth, how could I forget something so important? I am in charge of our defenses, after all,' Haldir replied, grinning as his brother scowled at the nickname. Haldir knew perfectly well that both his brothers hated it... which was why he loved it so much. 'But, I can see that you do not want my company, and anyway, I am not prepared for such a trip just now. So go, and leave me here alone, to face the Lady. I thank you for your consideration.'

Haldir hoped his words would make his brother laugh. Haldir was always the one left to face the Lady's wrath, even if his brothers were the sole cause. Which they seldom were, he had to admit. They had, however, done nothing recently to raise her wrath, an unusual thing for the three brothers. The joke was long standing between the three of them and the Lord and Lady, and rarely failed to make any of the five laugh. Haldir was pleased to see that it did not fail now.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian walked down the path partially listening the sounds of Lothlorian night. Somewhere in the distance she heard the clinging of steel and singing voices intertwined with nearly unnoticeable sighs of the nature. Yet, her disarrayed mind did not coincide with the surface peaceful evening. As a noble Lady trained to contain herself Celebrian never revealed the intricate pain that consumed her heart more with each day. “We are all children of the woods and rivers and mountains. We belong to one being. Why do we have the need to destroy one another? “ She cared deeply for Lothlorian but failed to understand the hate she saw sparked in anyone’s eyes as they spoke of the Mirkwood inhabitants. “What will become of us?”

Her glace fell on her mother’s mirror. She remembered when she was a little girl Galadriel forbade her from ever looking into the mirror alone, but sometimes she would sneak in a peek at it. The mirror would always remain silent, each time reflecting nothing but night. Suddenly the call of a little girl aroused in her soul demanding to see the secrets hidden in the water. Celebrian threw a roguish glance around to make sure no one would see her act and looked.

She sighed disappointed as mirror showed nothing but a star-lit sky. She was about to walk away when suddenly two distant stars rolled across the havens drawing two distinct lines all the way across the mirror surface, until they reached one another connecting as one. The blinding light followed stunning her with overawing fragmented images of mostly unknown faces, events, objects. Her people fighting, her people singing, her people living and dying and the ashes of old destruction burning with a new life. The images whirled madly faster with each spin and than one of them finally came through, standing clearly before her, dark haired elf. His movement filled with pride but his gentle grey eyes shining with care and kindness. She felt the very essence of his being emanating light and she thought he was soft radiant. She reached down to see him closer when a lock of her hair touched the water disturbing the image.

The mirror reflected terrifying darkness. Not an empty dark nothingness but endless abyss filled by eternity reaching out as far as the dawn of light, to the very beginning when a new life was announced by an ancient piercing cry. It rang in her ears and she did not recognise her own voice. Evening lights twirling about her exploded as fireworks into the evening sky, the trees appeared as giants stretching their hands upward in silent motion appealing for help of a higher power and the piercing cry became silent, everything vanished.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel stood at the top the monument of Amroth, gazing northward, toward the southern fringes of Mirkwood, visible, as ever, when the sky was as clear as today. She gazed at the foreign, hostile forest, so close and yet so far away from theri lands darkly.A movement in the forest, just outside the clearing, attracted her attention; from her high vantage point, she discerned two elves, Galadhrim most likely, making their way through the brush; she diverted her attention to them, as she made her way down.

As she descended, she heard their voices, clear and…very familiar to her. A naughty smile bloomed on her face; she came down upon the grass swift and noiseless as only an elf can be. As the elves passed her by, not noticing her, half-hidden behind the huge trunk of the mallorn tree that served as the base of Amroth’s house, she stepped out of her makeshift hiding-place.

“Well, well, well…” she said with a soft tone in her voice, that made the others jump up and turn around startled, “What are you 2 doing out here at this hour?”

Haldir, after getting over the initial shock, bowed low, motioning his brother to do the same; Rumil conformed hastily, blushing to his ears. Ithildiel looked at both of them, feigning annoyance.

“For the love of Varda, Haldir!” she exclaimed, as the twosome stood upright again. “I thought we had agreed you wouldn’t do that every time we met!”

“Do what, my lady?” the elf asked baffled.

Ithildiel rolled her eyes. “Bow and call me things like ‘my lady’, ‘lady’, ‘princess’, etc!” she said, feigning exasperation now. A few paces behind his older brother, Rumil was struggling not to laugh-and failing miserably. Ithildiel was the only person in the whole of Lorien who could make his brother lose his usual suaveness; and, indeed, Haldir was already blushing, much to his brother’s delight.

“I…I forgot…” Haldir finally said, giving a furious glance at his brother.

“It’s OK”, Ithildiel smiled at last, the austerity of the previous moment lost. “I was only teasing you, after all.”

Haldir sighed, apparently relieved; Rumil broke out in laughter. “You should’ve seen the look on your face, big brother”, he said amidst laughs, ignoring Haldir’s furious blush.

“So, you were teasing me, were you?” he addressed Ithildiel, who stood across from him, hands folded across her chest, enjoying the scene.

“Well…sort of”, she said teasingly. “But I really DO dislike it when people start bowing and treat me as if I were the Lady of the Golden Wood herself!” she continued seriously. “And you are my friend; I doubly dislike this behaviour coming from you!”

Haldir smiled. “You are right, mellon nin”. He said seriously. “I shall try to refrain from...formalities in the future”.

“Enough about that.” Ithildiel said, discarding the matter. “Where have the 2 of you been? I heard something about scouting…Is that what you were doing?”

"Well", Rumil interjected, "the defences of Lorien are my brother's charge", he said somewhat pompously, earning himself a dark glance from his companion. Ithildiel's smile got broader.

"Enough jest", Haldir cut them off somewhat abruptly. "And you, young lady...you should not wander so far from Caras Galadhon on your own!" he said sternly.

"Really?" she replied, too suavely for the elf's taste. " I beg to differ! I can very well take care of myself!" she said arduously. "You should know...after all, it was you who trained me!" she said more softly.

"True, but you are still learning, my friend", he replied with a soft smile. "And the Lady would have me skewered alive, if anything happened to you, because of your...over eagerness to get yourself in trouble!"

Ithildiel went ahead, her light blue gown fluttering around her feet, choosing to ignore Haldir's comment."I DO not try to get myself in trouble! " she protested, amused nonetheless. "And if we end up getiing int oopen war with the Mirkwood elves, I want to be ready, for I certainly will no remain behind!"

"Whoever said we are going inot war with Mirkwood?" Haldir asked, feigning ignorance, though everyone knew things were indeed a more than a little tense between the two realms.

They had been walking as they conversed and their footsteps had brought them close to the narrow path that led to the mirror of Galadriel. They were about to turn away from that, making their way to the gates of the city of the Galadhrim, when a searing scream tore through the stillness of the wood. Ithildiel, who was about to respond to Haldir's comment, froze into place."That...that was Celebrian", she said, colour draining from her face.Her friend knew she wasn't supposed to go near her mother's mirror without the Lady being present, as well, but, like herself has often gone to the spring, daring the power of the mirror. Ithildiel did not pause to think. She dashed towards the direction the scream had come from-an eerie silence had followed the sound and she felt an ice grip on her heart. She heard the others following her, as she descebded the steps leading to the mirror clearing.

Celebrian lay, obviously unconscious, by the pedestal upon which the bowl of the mirror rested. Ithildiel dashed to her side, kneeling by her side and propping her her upon her lap; Celebrian's face was white, rivalling the white gown she was dressed in. As she checked her pulse, her friend opened her eyes sluggishly, letting out a small moan.

Without looking, Ithildiel knew Haldir and Rumil stood at the lower steps, not daring to tresspass in the spot of the Lady's mirror." Go to the city," she said hastily, " get some help here! Hurry!" She saw the bowl upturned, laying a few metres away from Celebrian's limp body. The two elves departed hastily and her friend tried to get up. "Take it easy", Ithildiel said softly, helping her sit up slowly. "Are you Ok? What happened here?"

[Ladypain]

Shimmering black water flooded her conscience with suffocating agony when a warm touch pulled her back into reality. With a blurred vision Celebrian recognised Ithildiel and heard the orders, which she wanted to protest. She tried to stand up but intense pain shot up through her body into the brain splitting into thousand sparks forcing her back on the ground. Helpful hand supported her to sit up and worried voice asked, “What happened?”

Celebrian tried to compose herself and felt deep embarrassment. Her body felt too heavy and head nearly impossible to hold up. She forced a smile. “Ith I am glad it is you and I do not need to pretend to be in my usual lady like state.” She paused collecting the fleeting thoughts looking up at her friend. “I looked into the mirror. It finally told me something. Images places, people I never knew before!” She suddenly blushed and hid one memory so deep into her conscience where even her mother would not discover it. She concentrated on other things. “There were some kind of weapons, swords and…I swear I heard muffled voices…” Bewilderment reflected deep in her eyes. “They spoke to me…” She locked her hand on Ithildiel’s wrist. “They whispered of War.” Soft cry escaped her lips and one tear rolled down her cheek. “Horrible, foolish war.”

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

“They spoke to me…” She locked her hand on Ithildiel’s wrist. “They whispered of War.” Soft cry escaped her lips and one tear rolled down her cheek. “Horrible, foolish war.”


Ithildiel tried to conceal her shock from her already badly shaken friend. She helped her to her feet, slowly, trying to ignore the persistent pallour upon her face.

"What...what do you think it was I saw?" Celebrian ventured to ask, still clinging at Ithildiel's arm, for fear she would slump to the ground again if she let go.

"You already told me what you saw", Ithil replied, surprised to sound so calm,despite the sudden vice of fear gripping at her heart; she could not say what she was afraid of and saw no point in upsetting Celebrian further; her friend was in the verge of collapse as it were.

"Yes..."she said timidly, "but...but do you think it was the past or the future that I saw?" she persisted, her eyes imploring her friend for an answer.

"I...I have no idea..." Ithil admitted hesitantly, "b...but...I am afraid...it was the future..." she continued barely able to choke out the words.

Celebrian looked at her anxiously; she seemed flushed and unusually nervous." How can you be so sure?" she finally asked, feeling a little of her strenght returning.

"Well..."Ithil hesitated for a while, "I am not...but...you are not the only one who challenge the Mirror these past few days", she confessed, obviously embarrassed. "I looked into it, as well...it was a couple of days ago, the day that party from Rivendell departed..."

"And...and what did you see...?"Celebrian asked, unable to mask her agony.

"War..."Ithil replied simply."As you put it, horrible, foolish war...and I knew, I felt it was the future..." she added thoughtfully.

They stood there quiet for a while; everything around them suddenly felt entirely still, as if all life in the forest had vanished...

[Ladypain]

The stillness broke by disturbed voices and rushed footsteps. “Here comes my escort.” Sighed Celebrian. “I don’t suppose we can conceal the act.” She finally let go Ithildiel’s hand and straightened her posture just as an elven group entered the clearing. They stopped in confusion and bowed in rather ridiculous fashion. “My Lady we were told you were hurt…” muttered one of them. “Haldir…” Celebrian interrupted the mumbling with annoyed gesture. “There was an accident. No one is hurt. I appreciate your concern but there is no need for a panic. You should return to the city and try not to give this another thought.” They stood in uncertainty until Haldir stepped forward. “My Lady you do not seem well. Please allow us to escort you back to the city.” Short hesitation ran through him. “Lord Celeborn is…he wishes to see you.”

“Very well.” Celebrian walked down and leaned on Haldir’s hand at the foot of the steps still to stunned to walk all the way back to the city on her own. She hid the displeased expression of having this told to her father.
“Ithildiel if you are not busy tomorrow come visit me.”
The group follows the path away from the mirror.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"I will, mellon nin", said Ithil calmly. She cast a somewhat vexed glance at Haldir, who paused before leaving, Celebrian still clinging to his arm.

"Actually, my lady",he said formally, avoiding her keen gaze, "the Lord would like to see you as well, as soon as he is finished with the lady Celebrian". Celebrian cast a nervous look at her firend; Ithildiel frowned; she now knew that both her and her cousin were in trouble. Rumil offered her his arm, but she motioned him away, as she came to walk by Haldir and Celebrian's side.

"When I told you to get help", she hissed, trying not to be overheard by the party of elves in the midst of whom they were walking, "I did not mean that you go and alert the Lord and Lady as to what happened! Now it looks like we're both in trouble!"

Haldir sighed."I'm sorry, Ithil, but I did not really know what happened, so I..." he stopped abruptly;Ithil felt sorry for him, he looked genuinely miserable.

"Never mind, mellon nin", she said, gripping his other arm" The Lady probably already knew what her daughter was up to, anyway!"

"Do you really think so?" Celebrian asked a little anxiously."I guess so..." she continued, ere anyone answered her." My mother seems to always know whatever passes in the land of Lorien...And we DEFINITELY are in trouble!" she exclaimed. "Why do you think my father wants to see us both?"

"I have no idea", Ithildiel sighed, " but we'll soon find out..." she added dismally. As the party came close to the gates of Caras Galadhon, Lord Celeborn, dressed in a silver gown was plainly seen standing by the guards of the city; Ithildiel and Celebrian looked at each other nervously; even from this distance, they could both see the Lord of Lorien was furious!

[Ladypain]

Celebrian felt panic creeping up on her increased by Ithildiels voice and expression. As they approached the gates closer Lord Celeborn moved towards them and the group she was in spread out guiltily, creating empty space around three figures. “Lady Ithildiel do not leave the city for I wish to speak with you some time tonight.” He replaced Haldir by Celebrians hand and motioned her into the city. “I wish to speak with you as well Young Lady.” His soft voice and calmed gestures did not match the infuriated aura he projected.

They walked in silence towards the palace and Celebrian felt the intimidating burden pressing down heavier with each passing second onto her shoulders. This was a calm moment before the storm. They reached her room and Celeborn closed the door shut. She sat down on her bed and he remained standing sometimes breaking into pacing about them room.

The frustration broke through his voice. “Our state is heavily disturbed by a threat of a close war. This is a moment where our people need to be brought closer together by all possible means and this is where I need all the support I can get including from my family. Yet, my own daughter appears impartial to the court affairs as if they are no concern of hers. Instead of promoting unity and morale you wander about the woods getting yourself in constant trouble like a small child.”

His anger transferred to her and using the short pause she inserted. “You impartial daughter is sorry her views do not correspond with the wishes of Your Lordship.”

He gasped. “I was told she is hurt maybe dying. Apparently you are well enough to look up at me so daringly. This foolish message came in consisting of some sort of unidentifiable mumbling... Why have you disobeyed your mother? We need to think of a harsh reality not wander through dreams. I had enough of your insolence! You should get married and maybe it will smarten you a bit.

Celebrian’s anger vanished with this conclusion. She looked at her father with a suspicion. “What do you mean?”

“Our diplomatic party will be heading to Rivendell in a few days I would like you to accompany them. There is someone I would like you to meet.”

“What if I do not like this someone?” Her lips drew tight and he recognised a sudden streak of stubbornness. Lord’s voice became softer. “Cele, Please try to understand sometimes we must act opposite of what our heart would tell us. We all belong to a certain niche in life and this niche sometimes makes high demands.” He sat down drawing her close to himself. “For example, today I wanted to run through the bushes to the mirror…” Sad notes accompanying these words brushed away negative barriers in her and she felt guilt. “I am sorry father if you believe my marriage will help bring peace to our woods I will do my best to obey.” The words were forced and he felt pain as he knew his daughter is slowly but inevitably separating from him. Her being drifted away where he could not follownor protect her anymore.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel watched Celeborn walk away towards the royal-so you’d call it-residence, escorting Celebrian, not without unrest. Her uncle’s tone of voice had been unusually stern and too formal for her taste. She had just turned to glance at Haldir and Rumil-only to find them both gone(OOC: Does that take care of the prob, Wil? I hope so!)- when one of the maidens that served as the Lady Galadriel’s personal court, strode up to her in a hurry.

“My lady”, the elven- maid said urgently, ”you are to follow me to your chambers immediately. The Lord Celeborn has instructed that you are to wait for him there; he’ll wish to talk to you after he has finished his conversing with his daughter”.

Ithildiel flinched at the woman’s formal tones; she got a feeling she was in more trouble than she realized. “But why…?”she thought absently-her mind was to Celebrian, she was hoping she was not being scolded at that moment-as she followed the woman obediently. “Unless…” it dawned on her; The Lord and Lady must know…must have known she, as well, had gone to gaze into the Mirror these last few days.

They reached her room and the woman left her, closing the door behind her as she bowed and left. Ithildiel looked at her reflection in the mirror; her clothes were soiled with mud, as she had knelt by her friend’s side at the mirror. She tried to contact Celebrian mentally-Galadriel herself had trained them in the art of communicating thoughts and feelings to another’s mind-but something blocked her. “My uncle…” she thought nervously, as she went about to change her clothes mechanically, seeking to pass the time and ease her nervousness. She had barely changed out of her dirty gown into a soft, dark blue velvet that matched her eyes almost exactly, when Celeborn stormed in; his mood had not improved, Ithildiel noticed, bracing herself for the coming storm. She looked directly at her uncle, almost defiantly.

“Well, it’s good to see that you, for once, did as you were bidden!” Celeborn said, trying to check his fury.

“When have I not done as I was bidden to, uncle?” Ithil said, as innocently as she could manage. Celeborn cast her a reprimanding glance; her innocence was but a façade and they both knew it.

“What happened to your cousin today was no joke!” the Lord of Lorien continued anxiously. “She could’ve been gravely hurt! Her hair touched the water of the Mirror!”

Ithildiel started. “I…I did not know that…”she said numbly. “I…She was unconscious when I found her…We heard her scream…”

Celeborn nodded. “I thought something terrible had happened to her, until Galadriel told me what had happened. Both her…and you braved the mirror these past few days, isn’t it true?”

His tone warned that he would not put up with a lie. “Yes”, Ithil said simply, “that is quite true.”

Celeborn sighed. “I thought the two of you had sense enough not to go about getting in trouble! You have been trained as a warrior…I thought you possessed enough discipline to stay out of trouble by now! Apparently, I was mistaken!”

Here we go, Ithil thought, the punishment is coming up now! She tried to stay expressionless, as her uncle continued.

“As you know, we might be at war with…what should otherwise be a fellow nation. To that end, we might need to secure some allies; both you and Celebrian shall travel to Rivendell within the next few days. Your cousin…should wed and there is someone she is to meet there; as for you…”

“I’m in no hurry to get hitched”, Ithil interjected boldly.

“That call is not for you to make, young lady”, Celeborn replied. “Your care was entrusted to me and I shall decide what’s best for you! And I shall make sure you find a good match…as in your cousin’s case, marriage might actually be good for you!”

Ithil just gave him a furious look; both she and Celebrian had always been against such…arranged marriages; they both wanted to fall in love, though and hundreds of times they had sat together, daydreaming. Celeborn pretended not to notice his niece’s irritation.

“Until all preparations for your journey are made”, he said sternly, “you two will be confined to the city! The forest may be too dangerous for your little…escapades and the sentries are too busy to be chasing after the two of you!”

Ithil knew it was vain to argue…Celeborn left swiftly and she dashed out of her room after him, heading straight for Celebrian’s room.

Celeborn sat at the large veranda of their flet, thoughtful. He had no wish to lose both daughter and niec in such a venture, but he knew all too well they had to go on…to whatever lay ahead for them.

[Ladypain]

As her father rapidly left the room Celebrian reflected on their conversation at the same time cleaning herself up. She washed her face and hands, selected a clean gown, finally sat herself near the mirror brushing her long silky hair. “I wonder what is happening with Ithildiel?” She tried to reach out telepathically but felt empenetrable barrier separating them. "My father is responsible. I just have to wait.”

Celebrian was not left long in anticipation. A door was blown open and Ithildiel entered the room like a storm wave in her flowing dark blue robes and with the same anger emotions shimmering in her eyes. Celebrian needed no words to understand her cousins fury. “He told you same thing as he told me.” Half asked half insisted Celebrian. “The marriage…”

“His intention is to place us on the same board as a horse or a peace of mithril as well as to treat us as such.” Interrupted her Ithildiel. “We are to be located only where his Lordship demands us to be. Hey look I Own two elven maidens, why not use them to benefit my country! He would sell his own wife if he found it useful!”

Celebrian smirked trying to hide a wide grin on her face and Ith anger switched to laughter. “Ok maybe not, but I resent having important decisions made without my consent.” Finally managed Ithildiel.

Celebrian motioned her friend to sit down. She spoke in fragments but the sound of her voice revealed sadness and deep passion “Ith, please try to understand my father. He was always formally strict, a practice imprinted in him over the ages. It comes with his position. He deeply cares for the realm. It is one of most important things to him and that is what makes him a good ruler. I know he means well, but he… he became misguided. I do not believe his intent is ever to make either of us extremely unhappy. I feel he is entangled in some internal struggle he may not even be aware of… I’m worried for his health. I think… I think we should do as he asks. At least going to Rivendell part.” She suddenly concluded. “Maybe it will work out for the best.” Celebrian paused awaiting for her cousin’s reply.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel cast an uneasy glance at her cousin." Work out for the best?" she asked her tone feigning irony...in truth, it was fear that was settling somewhere in her heart, but she choked it down. "The best for whom? Do you realise what he is asking...no, forcing us to do?And you do not need to tel me that he is worried about his realm, Cele, my dear", she continued, in a calmer tone, "I know, perhaps much better than you the troubles Lorien is faced with. Remember the vision you had in the Mirror? War?"Celebrian nodded uneasily, fidgeting nervously;the memory was not pleasant. Ithil sighed before continuing: "We may be at war with the realm of Mirkwood, soon enough...Something that has not happened since the First Age of Arda, elves going up against elves...Celeborn is worried..frightened that Lothlorien, that he and Galadriel have struggled so to maintain, will perish; he seeks to fortify his position, though...I wouldn't be surprised if we found emissaries from Mirkwood in Rivendell, as well! Everyone will want Lord Elrond's realm on their side!"

She stopped to observe Celebrian look at her awestruck. "What's the matter?" she asked, surprised.

"When did you get so smart about the current political situation of the elven realms?"Celebrian asked, half-amused, half-stunned.

Ithildiel broke out in laughter. "I've been...eavesdropping at the Councils held these past few weeks", she finally said, among laughs.

Celebrian laughed also. "For a moment there,you...you almost sounded like my dad! You scared me!" she said.

"Well, I WAS quoting your dad", Ithil replied, with a naughty smile on her beautiful face.

"So...are we going?" Celebrian asked, after they caught their breath. "To Rivendell?"

"It does not seem we get much choice in the matter", Ithil sighed. "Let's go", she shrugged, "and see what happens." Unnerved, Celebrian noticed her friend and cousin's voice failed to sound as carefree as the latter would have it...Ithil was as unsure and nervous as herself...

[Ladypain]

"It is getting late." Ithildiel rose up and crossed the room. "I will see you tomorrow mellon nin." Celebrian watched her sadly and than sprang to her feet holding up Ith by the door. "The mirror shows what might come to be but it does not guarantee for the seen to come true. Perhaps we were given these visions because this can still be avoided, somehow."

Ithildiel did not answer. She hugged her cousin and left. Celebrian shut the door listening to her cousins foot steps decend through the dusk of the corridor.

[Melathwen]

Celeborn stormed back into their flet, and Galadriel could sense the anger radiating from him, though there were few outward signs. 'What has she done this time?' the Lady asked, laying aside the book she had been reading and sighing. She knew that Celeborn had gone to speak to their daughter, but Galadriel did not yet know what had happened.

'She allowed her hair to fall into the waters of your mirror,' Celeborn said, his voice tight with suppressed worry and anger. Galadriel started up from her seat and joined Celeborn on their private balcony, pushing past the drapes that separated it from their room.

'She did what?' Galadriel asked, stunned. Celebrian knew better than most the dangers of touching the waters of that mirror, and Galadriel could not believe her daughter had allowed such a thing to happen. Her daughter. 'I heard,' Galadriel said shortly as Celeborn started to repeat himself. He fell silent at the fury in Galadriel's voice. He had never heard such fury in her voice before. 'Why did she have to choose now to do so?'

'Is today any different from yesterday, meleth-nîn?' Celeborn asked, slipping his hand around Galadriel's waist and attempting to draw off some of her fury. He knew she would go to speak with Celebrian, and he didn't want her to do and say things there that she would later regret. Galadriel pulled away and paced impatiently. Celeborn waited silently, knowing she would speak when she was ready.

'I received a letter from Rivendell today. The Lord Elrond says that they have an envoy from Mirkwood, requesting their allegiance in our... disagreement.' Both knew the word was a gross understatement, but Celeborn let it lie. 'I am going to send an envoy in reply, for we cannot remain unrepresented. However, I think it likely that Elrond will take Mirkwood's side, in which case things will be the harder for us.'

'I know,' Celeborn said softly. 'Go and speak to Celebrian. I think she would be glad to see you. You have been so busy of late, dealing with this, that she has been neglected. I mentioned sending her to Rivendell. I don't think she was impressed by the idea, but I do think that she would go. I also mentioned finding... a husband for her. I think she needs to talk about it.' Galadriel nodded. The things Celeborn mentioned were things they had been discusing for a while now, and Galadriel was not overly surprised that he had chosen today to mention them.

Slowly, wondering what her reception would be, Galadriel went to Celebrian's rooms, wondering if she would find her alone or in any mood to talk. Having a daughter was very difficult at times. This, Galadriel thought, was going to be one of them.

[Legolas of Mirkwood]

Legolas was in His fathers halls, he had asked him to come to him and Legolas was not happy, "Father! Why must we do this?! The people of Lothlorian have been our friends for hundreds of years, why must we come to this?! This is an argument that has gone too far, it is a nightmare which has lost it's way!!!!"

Legolas was rather disturbed and angry with the situation at hand, he was unsure why this was happening, the elves were peacefull, they were caring to one and other, why would this happen? surely it wasn't possible? Legolas's mind was full of questions that could not be answered, at least not now, he had already known of great elves thousands of years that have been killed in this so called war and it made Legolas's heart fill with pain and distress.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian was about to retire for the night when she heard someone enter her room again. Dismally she found her mother enveloped in aura of fury worse than that of her husband. Celebrian felt her heart fall. She was too tired from previous conversations to continue the battle. She hastily spoke to Galadriel. “I shall answer you, mother. I looked into the mirror because I despaired to find any answers for fear that dwelt in my heart, consuming it day by day. The mirror appeared as life fountain of wisdom and so I reached out to it. What was done cannot be reversed, nor do I regret it. I am only sorry if I cause any pain to you or anyone in the process. I also regret to have neglected my duties to our lands and I will try to balance the act by going to Rivendell as you bid me to do. That is all.” A stubborn little wrinkle appeared in the corner on her lips as she intended the subject to be closed and would speak of it no more.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildel could not find peace tonight, she thought a little sadly; she had tried to turn in, but had been tossing and turning in her bed, for at least half an hour before she decided to get up again. "Doen't seem I'll be getting much sleep tonight", she thought, sighing. Without thinking, she got dressed again, in the silver-grey garments of the forest guards. She would take a walk in the woods, hoping that would relax her."Nobody will recognise me dressed like that", she smiled as she looked at her reflection in the large mirror before her; with her hood drawn low, her face was almost invisible. Celeborn's warnings echoed in her head;she would be a fool to disobey her uncle, she knew that. "So?" she shrugged, as she opened her chambers door as noiselessly as only an elf could. "I'll just stick to walking a bit inside the city...noone said anything about that!" As she made her way to the flet's exit, passing near Celebrian's bedchamber, she thought she saw the slim, ethereal silhouette of the Lady Galadriel cross the corridor to her daughter's room; hidden in the shadows-the silver-grey garments she was wearing mingling perfectly with the gloom, she finally stepped out. Celeborn had spoken to his wife about what had happened, she thought uneasily, breathing the cool night air. "And...I bet he has spoken to her about my behaviour, as well", she thought dismally. "Which means that...she might want to have a word with me soon after she's done with Celeb..."She climbed down the flet regardless...she'd be back ere her aunt came looking for her.

[Friend of Maglor]

Rananar listened to the young elven prince with derisive laughter rising in her throat. She slipped soundlessly behind him as he stormed to an outcropping balcony, and whispered venomously “You overestimate the kindness between our race, child… I witnessed the first slaying of elf by elf, and it’s reoccurrence never surprises me,” the Mirkwood elves, she knew, held her with mingled awe and intense dislike. They respected her age and ancestry, but sensed the encompassing coldness of her heart. If Elrond had not sent her as one of his own counselors, her welcome would have been short indeed. But the son of Earendel did not so soon forget her blood ties and great friendship with his foster father, and despite all misfortunes since his rearing with his brother Elros by Maglor son of Feanor, Maglor’s memory was one he still held dear.

And here she was. Her arrival just in time for this little… mishap….this small… misunderstanding. Her mocking laugh rang, echoing its bitterness like dryness of the soul. Legolas turned to glare at her. He knew what she was doing. She liked to toy with many of them like that, trying to instill in them the despair that long years of death and loss had imprinted upon her own heart. “This matter does not require your council, my lady.” The civil words were fairly spat.

“Greed runs deeper than kinship,” she whispered pitilessly, “you cling to a hope non-existent, little one,” she smiled at his frustration and slipped into Quenya to spite him more—he knew the ancient tongue, but not near so fluently as she, and the archaic form she used made it more difficult still to comprehend, “always have our battles been fought in greed, do not expect to change inner nature so easily… you know your father’s weakness for wealth… and his envy of Galadriel.” She slid into the shadows like a serpent once more, her sea changing eyes hardening into livid green for one moment… snake’s eyes… Curufin’s eyes… eyes which reflect no warmth.

She would speak to Thranduil. Her mouth twisted into a smile restraining bitter mirth… he would be so easy to persuade. Dark elf… I know your desires she mused, you so hunger for the treasures of the elven kings of old…Menegroth taunts you… and I will turn the knife in the wound…. She looked very much like her treacherous ancestor as she glided into the king’s hall.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond strolled in the gardens of Imladris, his heart heavy with care; in his study a messenger of Thranduil awaited, but he did not feel like dealing with him at the moment. Things had been extremely tense between the realms of Mirkwood and Lothlorien for some time now and, though he had no desire to choose eiter side, he had been pressed by both to support them.

"Well, not exactly pressed", he corrected himself mirthlessly, " more like politely asked and reminded of ancient alliances...But Imladris has always been supportive to all elven realms. And besides, I would never wish to choose...to form alliances. Rivendell is a place of knowledge...of peace, not a military realm. And...I feel the dissension between Galadriel and Thranduil's lands is...shadowy, not clear at all...whatever drove them to this hatred, I should very much like to know." His musings were disrupted by an elven scholar; he came up to him and bowed. " My Lord...I am to remind you that the representatives from Mirkwood are waiting for you..." Elrond sighed." Very well, " he said, putting his thoughts aside, "let us go to them. And summon my councellors...they need to be here for this."

[Bane of Lunazra]

Sahrala drew her twin daggers from her boot instantaneously, lightning precision ensuing in a flash. The two dagers had her prey, the elf she had been traipsing after for days, pinned against a tree.

Rala smiled deftly and briskly strode over to her trapped foe. His young and strong arms flailed, trying to strain free from the tree's dark trunk. He cursed at me in a language I knew all to well, despised; his green eyes flared with loathing. I stooped down and stared into the elf's eyes, drawing my third dagger. Silver lines creating a spiraling pattern snaked down the side of the small blade and I twirled it threateningly in front of his pale face.

The Mirkwood elf became silent, reasoning with himself, knowing the I was an expert assassin and bounty hunter. I was trained to kill silently, and he knew that very well. "What do you want with me traitor?" he spat furiously, his eager and naive blood boiling.

What did I want? the words filtered into my thoughts like poison. I wretched at the sound of his voice, the young airy words flitting on the air like the cursed music of my race. What I wanted was justice and truth, unification, the cease of treachery that amassed in elven hearts. I wanted to have a free life: free of suffering and torment, free of the ignorance of a racec that was doomed in their ritualistic ways from the start of time. My eyes burned with a silent hunger for life again, for vitality and the eager youth this princely elf possesed.

"Quiet!" I warned, my temper steadily rising, the shining dagger in my fingers twirling faster, instinctively. "I want you to reurn to your putrid halls in Mirkwood and deliver this message to your king." Rala held out a scroll, tightly wound in light silver garments. "My lady has sent it to you as a warning, a foreboding she has enviosioned...if I might add." She also snatched the royal pendant he wore about his neck and pocketed it, saying, "If you fail to deliver this, I shall find you once again prince... and your life will not be spared..."

Removing the daggers from the tree, the prince's body lunged at Rala like a vicious tornado of hatred. "You!" he began...and ended as my fist drove into his gut and knocked the air swelling in his exasperated lungs clear out of his body.

"Yes, me." I grinned, knowing when he awoke, the message would find its way to Mirkwood and my war would begin... My crimson eyes flared under the shadows of the trees. "Vengeance is trivial, but justice is remedial," I mused, knowing this would spark a new epoch of war...

I stalked off into the deepening forest, my dark brown hair flowing behind my limber and tall form. Flowing... like the tidings I would administer to my lady: a twisted turn of events, how I was suddenly attacked by one of the princes of Mirkwood, and much more, my mind cunningly derived... much more....

[Friend of Maglor]

Rananar rushed into her chambers like a firestorm, then leaned against a pillar to support herself. She was laughing... laughing so hard she could scarcely breath, and the malicious sound grated on the high ceiling like the scraping of granite.

There was no escaping war now. But Rana knew she had to choose, and choose quickly. Whether to strengthen her hold upon the weakling wood elf who had kingship of the sprawling forest... or to seek out this unbidden ally in Lorien. She paced, her robes rippling furiously. "It would be too easy to bring him completely under my hand now... he will be angered at the injustice done to his son... although the brat himself will probably seek to place the blame upon this 'Sahrala'" she paused, her eyes fey with inner fire, and her whispering grew fast and feirce "If I should have the fortune of this elf being... of my tactical persuasion... if she too would bring down that cavorting, pig headed menace of a Noldorian traitor," the words were like gall, "then together... no diplomat in the entirety of this Vala foresaken land coud prevent war."

She had made up her mind. She must know this Sahrala and her reasons... and if Elrond... "but no," she mused, "the last sin of Maglor scarred him forever, and he could never be persuaded to turn elf against elf..." this momentarily troubled her, for she loved Elrond, the child she had known... who had given Maglor such a bright ray of joy amidst the darkest days of his life. She shook her dark head angrily. And armed herself, for she was riding to Lorien this very evening.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel measured veranda with wide steps. More then anything he wanted to ride out into the wild for a month or so to escape city fuss. He was bound to stay by troublesome events that threatened to escalate into fierce war. His loyalty undoubtedly lied with the Rivendell but he did not want to destroy his kin. There were many peculiarities to the causes of the disturbance between Mirkwood and Lothlorien that threatened to drag Rivendell into bloodshed with them. He was unsure who might benefit the most, but certain it was not the revealed sides. Besides external pressures to participate in the fight he sensed internal disturbance as well. Perhaps there is a traitor in Rivendell. Who? He had no evidence and didn’t know how to share this idea with Elrond although his suspicion fell on the council. It has to be one of them.

“My Lord.” His thoughts were interrupted. “Lord Elrond is meeting Mirkwood ambassadors. He requests your presence.” Glorfindel thanked the messenger and hurried to attend another meeting, as much pointless as dangerous.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond hastened back to the buildings of Imladris, his leisurely walk disrupted. As he reached the arched entryway leading to the library of Rivendell and his private study, another elf intercepted him; seeing the Lord, he bowed low. " My lord!" he said with reverence. " I was just coming to find you...the envoy from Mirkwood are getting impatient..." Elrond tried not to let his annoyance show;" I am here, now, as you can see, Lomear", he said as calmly as he could manage, " so you can relax...Have my councillors been summoned?" "Yes, my lord", the elf replied promptly, "the lords Erestor and Glorfindel will be with you in a few minutes!" "Very well, Lomear", Elrond smiled, " you are free to go".

He stood outside the study for a brief moment, pondering his course of action. " I will not allow Imladris to be dragged in this...nonsense", he thought; Glorfindel's words a few days earlier came to his mind. " Both sides seek to press Imladris to an alliance; the Havens are of little consequence to Mirkwood; Cirdan is Celeborn's kin, so there will be no argument as to whose side he will be on, if this takes a turn to the worse...Both sides will use all means to ensure...your favour". "You are right, I fear", Elrond had replied; Glorfindel's words echoed his thoughts exactly, "but I am still not very clear about the reason for this feud...I do not wish to bear witness to yet another kinslaying among the elves..." "And I have an unpleasant feeling that it may already be beyond anyone's power to prevent that", his Marchwarden had said ominously.

Discarding his thoughts, he finally stepped into the study; the Mirkwood elves stood up and bowed low. Pleasantries were exchanged; then Elrond asked, all typicalities cast aside-he always hated all that, anyway: " So, what is it that brings you here in such urgency?"

(OOC: I hope this is a good post; so tired today! :( )

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel slid into the study just as the so-called pleasantries were ending. Right away he noted the utter frustration from the Lord concealed behind a polite mask. He sensed the similar emotions from the ambassadors apparently insulted by long waiting. He felt the room ready to discharge with thunder. Time for polite reminders is drawing to an end he thought. “So, what is it that brings you here in such urgency?"

The ambassadors responded in the similar manner. “Your Lordship, we are not present to doubt any good intent nor wisdom to your rule but merely to clarify a troublesome disclosure. It became known to us Lord Celeborn is sending his daughter to Rivendell to weave a political alliance and set unrest to the state. We sincerely hope to hear reasonable explanation as to why she is allowed to enter this city.”

The statement fell unexpected like lightning. Seeing Elrond struggling to maintain composure baffled by another ridiculous accusation Glorfindel interfered preferring to be a fool to a possible anger outburst from severely annoyed Lord of Rivendell. “Your honor, the rumor to Lady Celebrian marriage is much inadequate to draw grim conclusions. It is rendered her private affair with Lord Altenen to which we were not even informed by Lothlorien. Surely the issue deserves not the attention given to it.”

The ambassadors grew angrier. “The open policies of Lord Altenen are no mystery, a Lothlorien supporter. He is one of the influential Rivendell figures as he controls a part of the armed forces. Surely Lord Glorfindel will not stand by if there was persuasion to civil unrest. For taking no action to this cause would be equivalent to siding with bloodshed.”

“The bloodshed does not occur for any reason. Ones mind must not be clouded by false judgments before taking up arms, as all strokes must fall for the clear cause. Those who advise the war are usually not the ones to suffer its burden. They will not be on battlefield in open confrontation for poison is their weapon. I caution you not to strike before the reasons are fully understood.” Answered Glorfindel.

Ambassador gave him merciful look. “The reasons are very clear to us.”

Glorfindel swallowed the insult. They must feel the situation desperate if they dare to attack Elrond so openly. These are no longer peaceful negotiations. They are here with threats and war. He hopefully side glanced at Lord Elrond.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond listened to the heated exchange between Glorfindel and the elves from Mirkwood, unspeaking, for a while.His friend and marchwarden of Rivendell hada quick temper, he thought concealing a cool smile, but it would appear he had overstepped his bounds right now; unless he stepped in, they, too, might end up at war with Mirkwood; the emissaries pretenses were thwarted...their true purposes revealed...and to top it off, they seemed offended by their reception!

"That is quite enough", he said calmly; his tone, calm as it was commanding, made the others stop in mid-talk. "I think this discussion has gone quite far enough in the wrong direction".

"Your marchwarden here thinks he has the authority to speak for you", said one of the emissaries, Anarion, in a tone deliberately ironic. Elrond gavehima fierce look; the other shrank a little, his boldness lost. " Lord Glorfindel is responsible for the safety and security of this realm; in regadr to this matter, he is authorised to speak as I would", he said coolly; Glorfindel smiled faintly. " And though it was perhaps out of place for him to speak as he did, I will not have anyone come into my realm and speak in the fashion the 2 of you have!" " We have merely reacted to your councellor's...inappropriate behaviour", Anarion protested, as tactfully as possible.

"You", said Elrond coldly, " have openly accused me of forming secret alliances with Lothlorien, behind your king's back..."

"Then...you are not in league with Lothlorien?" the second elf, Tindomion ventured to ask.

"I am not in league with either of you, " said Elrond as coldly as he could. " My only concern is Rivendell".

[Melathwen]

Galadriel sighed, all her anger dissipated by the hard words of her daughter. She came into the room, closing the door, and sat down, gesturing to Celebrian to sit next to her. Frowning slightly, she did, and Galadriel laid a hand on her arm, then removed it. She rarely showed much affection, even to her daughter. 'I do want you to go to Rivendell, child, but it is not intended as a punishment. You know the situation between us and Mirkwood. You know we have not... been on the best of terms lately. I would like you to go to Elrond, and to find out how he feels about all of this. I suspect that his only care is Rivendell, but he may feel otehrwise. Be careful, my daughter. I do not want you to get hurt.'

'I understand, mother. I will go.' Celebrian's reply was short and to the point. Galadriel hoped that Celebrian really did understand. After all, she was not that old and had not seen as much of the world as Galadriel had. She wasn't as wise in the ways of elves, nor was she so good at seeing beneath the surface. Galadriel knew that she had her ring to thank mostly for that, but still, it was a useful skill.

'Thank you. I know you looked into the mirror, and I am not as angry as I once would have been. You are growing, Celebrian, and soon, you will have the right to look into my mirror. I will train you when you get back from Rivendell. But until then, is there anything that you saw in there which I might be able to help you understand? Did you see anything that could help us? Anything at all?' Galadriel waited patiently for Celebrian's answer, but she did not seem forthcoming. Galadriel sighed again, and rose to leave, but Celebrian's voice stopped her footsteps.

[Ladypain]

The bitterness dissipated. Celebrian suddenly knew the mirror has given her insight into events her mother was not aware of. She wanted to share but something held her back as if it was meant only for her to know, even if she did not fully understand the significance. Galadriel rose to leave but Celebrian was in need of her advice without revealing anything else.

Her voice sadly followed. “Some things are predefined for us but there is more than one choice left to how we will act to them. If we are to choose between the most apparent roads of our duty or none sketched but existent paths of our heart what should foretell where our true duty lies?”

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

(OOC: Got tired of waiting!lol)


Ithildiel walked around the sleeping city of the Galadhrim lost in thought; she wondered what the Lady was talking to Celebrian about..."After her, aunt Galadriel will probably come for me", she thought, not at all pleased at that prospect. "And we'll leave for Rivendell...soon after that..." Her thought strayed; she'd been to Rivendel before, as a visitor and a meesenger-usually, despite Lord Celeborn's admonishings to not goig so far. "What we do there..." she thought now,"may well determine the very fate of Lothlorien. Disturbing images of the things she had seen in the Mirror of the Lady passed uninvited and unwelcome before her eyes and she shook her head to drive them away; she wondered if her cousin had seen the same...Bloody images of coming war, a war that did not seem avoidable.

She tried to stay her thoughts...her musings were far too grim tonight, she thought dismally. " I probably should turn back...get some rest", she sighed, as she came to the edge of the city, near to the forest around.Slowly and a little reluctantly, she turned around, back int othe city...

[Melathwen]

'You can never know for certain, Celebrian, and you must make the best choice that you can. But I think that if you follow your heart, you will not be too disappointed.' Then, offering one of her rare smiles to her daughter, Galadriel left Celebrian alone to think about her words, and what was shortly going to happen.

Now, there was only one thing left before she could go to sleep, and that was to find her neice. Knowing that Ithildiel had a singular disregard for the rules Celeborn set down for the maiden, Galadriel made her way to the outskirts of the city. She found Ithildiel heading back in, and was glad that she had not been too far out.

'Ithildiel, I believe you were with Celebrian today, when she looked into the mirror?' Galadriel asked, noting the slightly uncomfortable look on her neice's face. Ithildiel nodded guardedly, and Galadriel invited her to walk with her. As they made their way back towards the city, Galadriel continued. 'I am not as angry as I might have been. Neither of you were hurt in any way that I can discern, and no harm seems to come of what you did. That may not be the case next time, however, so I do not wish you to repeat your actions. I have told Celebrian that she will be receiving training when she returns from Rivendell, and the possibility of you doing the same has occured to me. However, you will need to prove yourself mature enough for such responsibility. Are you?'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithil couldn't believe her eyes, upon seeing Galadriel walk up to her, as she returned from her after hours walk. To be honest, she expected to be told off; her uncle had been quite explicit regarding her walking around in the middle of the night, especially around the forest.

Contrary to her expectations, however, her aunt had not come to chide her; the Lady seemed worried, indeed a little nervous...

'I am not as angry as I might have been. Neither of you were hurt in any way that I can discern, and no harm seems to come of what you did. That may not be the case next time, however, so I do not wish you to repeat your actions. I have told Celebrian that she will be receiving training when she returns from Rivendell, and the possibility of you doing the same has occured to me. However, you will need to prove yourself mature enough for such responsibility. Are you?'

She hesitated a little before speaking. " Neither me nor Celebrian meant any harm in gazing into your Mirror, my aunt and Lady", she finally started, choosing her words carefully. "And...and we both thought we could...I mean, you've already taught us so much of your own skills, we thought we could master the power, just for a brief spell. Apparently, we were not prepared enough for the forces we would call upon us..." she concluded pragmatically and a little sadly."And...I cannot say I'd like to repeat what happened, either...I think I've learnt from that paricular mistake!"she added managing a nervous smile. "I think I shall manage the maturity and responsibility you seek of me..." she concluded solemnly. The Lady smiled her approval of her niece's words. "So..."Ithil ventured to ask, as they drew near to the royal flet, "when are we to set off for Rivendell...?"

[Melathwen]

'As soon as possible,' Galadriel replied, storing Ithildiel's reply for thought later, when she had the time. 'But we will need some time to prepare. You cannot go alone with no escort if you wish to achieve your goals. But I think a few days should siffice. There are, I am sure, plenty of elves that will be willing to go with you.' Galadriel knew who she would send, and had only to ask them. Numbered among them was Haldir, for she trusted him the most. She knew he would not let Celebrian come to harm. Also needed would be messengers with swift horses, so that they could be kept informed of what was going on.

Ithildiel seemed unusually excited, and grew more so as the realisation of actually going to Rivendell sank in. It would be good for her to get out of the city a while, Galadriel knew she was beginning to find it, and Celeborn's rules, a little too confining. But as war drew closer, the prospects of a safe journey grew slimmer - and Galadriel had no wish for either her daughter or her neice to be caught by an enemy.

[Ladypain]

Finally left to herself Celebrian locked the door, curtained the windows, extinguished all light and fell on her bed exhausted. She lay for a while with her eyes wide open absorbing the darkness slowly releasing the tension of her mind and body. “How shall I follow my heart?” She whispered. The image of an elf she earlier saw in the mirror reappeared in her mind with a soft glow standing before her eyes. “Who are you, a curse or a blessing?” She asked but darkness could not provide the answer. Her eyelids fell heavy with dreams and she was pursued by images long into her sleep.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel bade her aunt goodnight and returned to her chambers. She was more than a little relieved at the Lady's words; she also felt, as she often did, thet her aunt had the power to read her mind and heart. "As if I didn't already know that", she smiled as she undressed and slipped into a heavy dark blue velvet nightgown. "The Lady already knows how much I would like to visit Rivendell again...it's been a really long time since I was last there, and I was but an elfling at the time...And I DO need to get out of Lorien for a while...with the upcoming war, it's been naught but rules and regulations for too long now", she thought a little dismayed. She knew, of course, both her aunt and uncle had only her and Celebrian's best interest at heart, but not being allowed out of the Naith perimeter for some time now...was a little stifling from time to time."We'll both need the experience of this trip", she smiled, as she combed her long, dark hair and lay down; she had wanted t ogo over to Celebrian's room and talk about what the Lady had said to both of them, but she guessed her cousin was fast asleep by now; and she, as well as Celebrian, was haunted by the images she had seen in the Mirror...images she had no idea what they were about, but felt she had to decipher. She felt so tired, all of a sudden, though...her eyes closed on their own, despite her mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness, and she sank into uneasy sleep.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian awakened when the sun’s full disk rose to the skies sending a band of rays through the thickness of the trees canopy. All her actions purposely slow Celebrian chose silky, pearl coloured dress and unrushed combed her hair braiding them in several thin lines above the main hair mass. She was late for breakfast but stretched the time even farther considering asking someone to bring it to her room. She was not excited to face her father after the last night's incident and hoped to punish him a little for the decision he made without her consent feeling somewhat alienated. She was finished with all morning preparations and as nothing was left to do she proceeded to the breakfast area hoping everyone has left it already.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel rose sluggishly, late in the morning. She felt a little odd after the events of the previous day and night...a strange feeling of expectation, as if some major change was about to occur, overwhelmed her. She knew it at once to be a premonition; and Galadriel always told her her premonitions usually proved true! She shuddered a little,as she abandoned the warmth of her covers and got up. She knew she had missed breakfast and was happy for that...she did not wish to see the Lords of Lorien, till she had had a chance to speak to her cousin, at least!

She dressed carelessly, in a dark red velvet gown, that accentuated her white skin and combed her hair carefully, letting it flow free upon her back. Carefully, she stepped out into the corridor, heading for Celebrian's room, hoping no elven maid from her aunt's train had been sent to see why she had not risen yet!

Celebrian was not in her room, so Ithildiel went on to the breakfast rooms, a little unwillingly; as she came close to those chambers, she noticed her cousin, a few paces ahead, lost in thought, apparently...

"Celebrian!" she called out, not too loudly, in case there were still people in the room ahead. "I have been looking for you, mellon nin!"

[Ladypain]

Celebrian smiled brightly at her cousin. “Good morning. I see we are both little late.” She continued in whisper. “I did not wish to see my dad either.” She softly slid ahead to the room and peeked in. “I was worried someone might still be there.” She sighed relieved. “What shall we have for breakfast?” When Celebrian saw her father was not around her mood lightened and the pain of last night washed away. She decided to avoid him for the next few days, until perhaps their leaving. “Now shall we make something or shall we ask for the meal? I rather not draw any attention to us just yet.” She sighed because sometimes her mother’s maidens were rather obnoxious in their willingness to help.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel gave her cousin a naughty smile. "I think we should refrain from asking your mother's maidens for their help with our breakfast", she said. "I would rather avoid another confrontation with our family...at least till I've had some time to think a few things through...Judging by your being late also, I'd say it is the same with you...So, what would you say if we took something to eat from the galleys, and went on a picnic in Cerin Amroth? There we may be able to talk about..." she hesitated "...about all that has happened to us since yesterday...By Varda...I never thought a coranar could be so long a time..." she continued, a little nervously and unable to conceal her thoughtfulness. "What do you think?"

[Ladypain]

Celebrian nodded thoughtfully. “How will we leave? We were ordered to stay inside the city. I am surprised we did not encounter a guard at the end of our hall. Perhaps my family was too busy attending something else, if it is not too late I would like to slip out unnoticed.” She also wanted to speak of the last night events some place private. “My mother should know where we are anyway.” She added thoughtfully meanwhile both of them were surely advancing to the kitchen. “Shall we?” she smiled mischievously. "We will not be getting to Cerin Amroth but we surely will be away in Rivendell soon enough."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel responded with the same mischievous smile on her face. " I know we can get the cooks to give us a few things", she said, "as to getting out of the city...we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. Let's get going ere someone comes looking for us!"

Without further dealy, they went into the galley...The elves in service there were quick to provide them with a small basket of delicacies and the managed to avoid all unwanted questions by saying they were just going down to the city and had merely risen too late for breakfast...

Slipping past the sentries at the city gates, they were soon seated on the top of the monument of Amroth, gazing at the view all around them; in the distance, the dark treelines of Mirkwood rose from the mist, reminding them of the ever-present threat.

"So", Ithil asked, offering Celeb a hot roll she had spread some butter and honey on, " what happened last night? What did your mother told you? She said nothing about your talk to me, when she spoke to me...and I got the impression she had much more than usual on her mind..."

[Ladypain]

Celebrian did not respond at once. She took a deep breath admiring the view. Fogged lines of Mirkwood although reminded her of the danger did not appear menacing but rather sad as if enveloping mist hid deeper secrets. She always loved isolated places where she could reflect alone. When she was younger she climbed tallest trees to witness sunrises and sunsets but Celeborn never approved of this habit and she eventually stopped.

A hot roll appeared under her nose. “Thank you mellon nin.” She smiled at Ithildiel blowing on her fingers and on the roll to cool it. “My mother apparently does not share same sentiments as her husband. She was worried, but not for the war and she promised to teach me to use the mirror after our return. It is concern for us. I got an impression there is more waiting for us in Rivendell then we count on, she mentioned something in rather cryptically.” She paused. “Ithil, I am curious. It is possible we got to see what she did not and maybe we can peace together our observations. Were there any particularly clear images that you saw?”

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel looked at her cousin, thoughtfully. "That was exactly what I thought...The Lady might have thought we saw something that was hidden from her; often she has told the both of us that the Mirror is not of her own magic, but has a mind of its own...What if it showed us something more specific about all that is happening that it showed her...?"

She paused a moment, looking at the view again; up here, away from the city, she felt strangely calm and relieved, all the tension fading; she sighed unconsciously, realising they would probably both get another speech by the Lord of Lorien as soon as they went back; their absence must be known by now and Celeborn had never really been lenient to them disobeying his commands; Ithil had often had to battle with him in order to go to the borders of Lorien, after she had been trained in the use of arms; always, her uncle would eventually yield, but always he would have Haldir act as her bodyguard, and Haldir usually was not one to let her slip by him, either!

Celebrian's question brought her back to reality. "Well? What did you see?"

Ithildiel turned to look at her cousin. " I was lost in thought there for a while", she laughed. "Well...I did not see too much and I would not call what I saw sp[ecific...There was war...I thought I saw a battle...but what attracted my attention the most...There was an elf...in the midst of it all...his face just kept reappearing in the water..." she paused...

[Ladypain]

Celebrian cast a side look at her cousin but said nothing about strange pause apparently Ithildiel did not want to speak more of this elf. She tried to lead her cousin away from it. “What a coincidence, I also saw someone but not in battle.” The image recalled easily. “He had dark hair and grey eyes but that is all I know and it can hardly help us now.” She licked a tip of her fingers that had honey on it with a slight grin and only cleaned her hands in water afterwards. She wrapped her hands around her knees and placed her chin on them. “Speaking of battles…” She added slowly with a slight frown. “If there is a war do you think my father might be leading our forces to fight at some point? He does sometimes. The mirror gave short picture him fighting but then next image was of a falling sword. I find these two connecting as if some trouble or great hurt is to fall upon him.” She sighed thinking they will get another thunder speech from Celeborn this day.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"We did not see the same person, then...the one I saw had long blond hair, a little darker than Haldir's and the bluest eyes I'd ever seen...I was almost mesmerized trying to look into them...and almost touched the water then..."Ithil said, a little uncertainly, her voice trailing off again. " And I saw the Lord too...I also felt a sense of foreboding...as if something evil will happen to him", she continued, her voice a little shaky, though she tried to hide it. "And I feel...it's so weird...as if our upcoming trip to Rivendell might put such a development off...What do you think?I...don't want any harm to come to my uncle, either...he, the Lady and you are all the family I have left..."she said gravely.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian sighed uncertain what she should say. What consolidation could she bring to someone who lost her loved ones? She affectionately wrapped her hand around her cousin’s shoulders. “They are both very fond of you.” She said gently. “As for me…I cannot imagine myself as I am today without you.”

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel hugged her cousin back, smiling. "Don't worry, mellon nin...I cannot miss what I never knew, can I? My parents passed on when I was too young to rememberanything of them...You are my family now and I deem you as a sister.Your parents are mine, too...I would never see any harm come to them, I would do all I could to prevent that, even at the sacrifice of my own life...Maybe that was what the mirror wanted us to see..."sheadded abstractedly.

They both remained silent for a while, then Ithildiel spoke again. "Do you really think...how do you feel about this journey to Rivendell...?"

[Ladypain]

Celebrian felt her cousins words reflected her feelings as well. “I do not know whether we will have any impact on the events. At times I feel so powerless, yet I have a hope, faint as a distant star. Although currently darkness prevails the light did not cease to exist it just lies dormant and hidden, but when it comes it will shine twice as bright. I am sure now our task lies in Rivendell although it may not be what we initially thought it is. I know it will be dangerous however…” Celebrian looked deeply into Ithildiel’s eyes reaching out to her essence so no lies could fall. “I want you to promise me something.” She said. “Whatever happens, you are not to give your life away for any of us.”

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel kept silent for a while, trying to fathom her cousin's emotions. She had a feeling her words had distressed her cousin a little bit. " I wish to promise what you ask", she finally said, " but find I cannot...I am not your mother, I do not-nor ever could, I think- possess her power; I do not know what the future holds, and I cannot make a promise that might prove me false, if things go ill." She saw Celebrian's eyes darken with worry and hugged her. "But I will promise this: I will not throw myself in danger recklessly, if it comes down to that; I do not have a deathwish, mellon nin,I shall not risk for no reason; and I, too, believe this war can still be avoided; I have a good feeling about Rivendell", she added, smiling softly.

[Ladypain]

“Please try...” Celebrian knew if her cousin asked her the same she also would not have being able to say yes. “Perhaps we should go back to the city. They are looking for us.” She did not wish to go back thinking of the tranquil solitude of the wise forests untouched by worries of the tiny creatures who shared the earth with them. “It is necessary.” She rose picking up their belongings however the return path she chose was a long one that first circled the city. She did not want to show how much more distress the conversation brought to her.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel noticed they had taken the long way home, but said nothing. She knew very well their talk had upset her cousin...as it had upset her, as well; all this uncertainty made her nervous, a feeling she always hated; her joy for the trip to Rivendell had evaporated, to be replaced by a cold, crue sense of foreboding...and an odd pang of apprehension she could not really explain...amd she knew beyond doubt Celebrian felt the same!

[Ladypain]

Although long, the path finally led them back to the city. Ithildiel and Celebrian passed through the guarded gates freely. No one stopped them. The city remained in the restful state and Celebrian thought her mother perhaps understood their need to be alone and to speak of much that occurred. Yesterday night Galadriel came in agitated but her mood changed and she spoke kindly to her daughter. The rare smile she shared brightened Celebrian like a sun. She rarely found much of open affection from either the Lord or the Lady. Celebrian guessed Lady Galadriel was choosing those who will accompany her to Rivendell. Celebrian knew they will only departure from Lothlorien when Galadriel bids them to and she waited in anticipation for the Lady to summon them.

[Ladypain]

“My only concern is Rivendell.”

Glorfindel listened to the scorning of the ambassadors much pleased although the rightful wrath fell on him as well. He felt like a puppy caught chewing up master’s slippers.

Ambassadors hurried to smoothen the unfavorable for them situation.
“A concern we deeply respect and understand.” They bowed. “We are most grateful Lord Elrond have cleared this misunderstanding. The answer will be reported to Lord Thranduil, however we must beg your permission to temporarily stay in Rivendell until the arrival of Prince Legolas. He might need our council upon the arrival.”

Glorfindel held back a smirk. The good ‘ambassadors’ were also spies. No wonder their speech was somewhat inconsistent from their apparent duties. The Lady Celebrian issue was merely to give them excuse for coming. He spoke. “I must ask for the councils forgiveness daring to interfere again however if the ambassadors for Lord Thranduil are to stay in Rivendell I regretfully must assign someone for your protection. Currently we have various parties from the realms unfriendly to your own. We are trying to avoid conflicts.” The ambassadors disdainfully turn to him. “We appreciate your concern but our skills are aimed to avoid trouble rather than stir it.” Glorfindel was determined to hold his ground on this issue. “I meant no offence. Perhaps the trouble will not be started on your part however someone might start it for you. I am concerned for everyone’s safety within the city walls. One follower should not burden you so much as to deny this request, unless you have other reasons not to wish for an escort.” He secretly intended to assign someone with better reporting and interfering abilities than with good sword skills to them. The ambassadors now addressed Elrond blushing. “Your marchwarden has no good manners.”

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

" I do not see how caring for your safety while you remain with us can be considered lack of manners", said Elrond politely, though smiling on the inside. He, too, had seen through the emissaries' play at diplomacy and had no wish to contradict Glorfindel on the matter; his friend and marchwarden had every authority to do whatever it took to secure the safety of Imladris. "And in any case, manners are secondary compared to skills. I trust Lord Glorfindel with the security of my realm because of these skills. You would be well-advised to do as he suggests".

"You would have us...submitted to such..such a disgrace?" said Tindomion ,apparently upset. "Being followed around everywhere?"

~I see why that upsets you, my friend!~thought Elrond, a little sarcastically, ~you won't be able to spy as well as you'd like!~

and said: "It is for your own protection, my lords...and I shall have to insist upon it!" He summoned a sentry and asked him to be kind enough and escort the envoys to the guest houses and make sure they had all they needed.

When the door closed behind the irritated elves of Mirkwood, he sat on a soft velvet sofa, sighing..."Well, I'm glad to be rid of them!" He motioned Glorfindel to sit, as well. "What did you think about all that?"he asked, unable to conceal his dismay.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel wanted to slip outside as soon as the meeting was over and to possibly avoid the Lord but the events got him to stay. He reluctantly followed the gesture to sit down. The barely notable dismay stirred him for he saw his friend tired. They had seven similar meetings in the past four days. All sorts of emissaries intruded Rivendell with messages, plus bothered Elrond with minor issues upon their stay disregardful of day or night. Glorfindel decided he would personally kick anyone out in the following two days if they should dare to bother Elrond again before he even knew of them coming. ~I will find excuses to keep them all away. ~ He thought with a frown.

“I think I will assign Beliwedat to these two.” At last responded Glorfindel although he knew the nature of the question. Assigning Beliwedat, a gifted actor who would surely give anyone great trouble, was unnecessary. Glorfindel simply planned a minor revenge for the insults those two issued.

[Charmander]

Thranduril had become impatient - his wife had always commented on this flaw - he smiled at the memory it brought back. He had sent his son to Imladris, to his friend Lord Elrond. The word 'friend' stuck in his throat as he grew weary of the dealings that have transpired of late. He was once great friends with the Lord and Lady of Lothlorien, and yet it had fallen apart. He almost wished he could blame the dwarves, but that was not the case. Wise as he was, he did not forsee this occurring.

He looked out the window of his home, made in a similar fashion to the homes found in Imladris. The land of Mirkwood was vast - it reached across a great expanse with his home being nearer to the mountains of Mirkwood - allowing him a view of all that transpired below. The mountain led down to the Enchanted River where he would often go to seek solitude and counsel. In the far horizion he cold see the Lonely Mountain. To the left of the mountians he could see the River Anduin.

Glancing across his lands his thoughts went again to his son. He had sent him to seek counsel and feared that elves from Lothlorien had chosen to do the same. The Lord of Mirkwood greatly wished to hear word from his son as to the outcome of his talks with Lord Elrond. He must ensure the saftey of his people and his realm.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Beliwedat..." Elrond managed a weary smile. " If I didn't know better, I'd say you realy did not like those elves from Mirkwood, my old friend", he jested;"He's one of the most troublesome elves I know...but do as you wish, as I already said, security is your authority..."

He remained silent for a long while, then sighed: "And this meeting did not go any better than the last ones, did it? Everyone wants to force Imladris to choose one or the other side...And all I want is to remain impartial, keep my realm safe and a haven, a safe refuge for all who need it, who seek knowledge and aid...Is that too much to ask?I shall accept no more messengers of Thranduil...or Galadriel", he finally said, "all they do is tire me and say nothing I am interested to hear...I hope Prince Legolas, if he is indeed coming here, will have something of more consequence to say; the same goes for Lady Celebrian...Which reminds me..." he changed the subject,as the thought came to him sudden and swift, " I thought only I, you and Erestor knew of her arrival...how did the Mirkwoood envoys find out about that?"

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel shivered uneasily hoping Elrond would not notice. This was the question he wished to avoid. “I have a feeling those two will not remain here too long.” He said seeking time to find the right words. He could not yet share his suspicions with Elrond that one of his advisors was serving other hidden purposes although Erestor was not the one who concerned him the most. He tried to answer as calmly as he can. “Only three from Imladris knew of Lady Celebrian’s coming however we do not know who knew of this in Lothlorien. The information could have escaped from their side.” He frowned. “Perhaps it would be a good idea for me to send out a small party to greet Lady Celebrian as she enters our borders.” He didn’t like at all the spread of rather secretive information however didn’t want to trouble Elrond just yet. Glorfindel tried to change the subject. “Speaking of the security issues.” He said in a lighter tone. “It doesn’t do Imladris any good having a weary leader.” Elrond protested with a gesture so Glorfindel insisted. “Someone tired is prone to make a wrong decision that might endanger this realm. Therefore I would insist for him get some sleep or I shall place him under a room arrest.” He felt quiet uneasy speaking to the Lord in such a manner.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"THere is something you are trying to keep from me, my old friend; else I truly am too tired and my judgement cloudy", Elrond, said; observing Glorfindel's uneasiness at his words, he added:" But I do not think it is the case; we shall speak of this again...when I have rested. For now...keep those Mirkwood elves under close surveillance, but do not let them know; there is something about them that I do not like. And send word to the vigils at the borders of Rivendell...as soon as Lady Celebrian is spotted, we shall send an escort to her; and the same shall be done for the Mirkwood Prince;orcs roam the lands he needs to cross, he might need an aid if travelling alonme, as the ambassadors suggested he would..."

Glorfindel bowed, but as he took his leave, Elrond called to him, making him turn about. "And...Glorfindel...If anyone seeks to see me, I have vanished, neither you nor anyone else knows where I am...I think I do need the rest you suggested and you will not have to put me under house arrest to get it", Elrond said quietly,with a faint smile, feeling way too tired suddenly to argue the point.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel hurried to leave the Lord not too excited with the promise to speak again of the information he was withholding. He posted security around the estate with the strictest orders to allow no one to pass into Lord Elrond’s residence. He planned to set Beliwedat to work as soon as possible and headed for his security quarters located west of the gates. As he swiftly crossed the distance between the estate and the city he noticed something that caused him to cringe. The two emissaries they spoke with earlier were peacefully conversing with the military chief of the realm, Lord Altenen. His first reaction was to sneak up on them however Altenen noticed him and the emissaries departed before Glorfindel could reach them. Knowing it useless to question the chief Glorfindel merely nodded at the innocent recognition greeting when Altenen passed by him. As soon as he reached the central quarters Glorfindel summoned Beliwedat briefly explaining the situation. “We have two Mirkwood ambassadors who need close surveillance. Please replace whoever is currently assigned to follow them and tell him to come to my office right away.” He said.

[Ladypain]

He did not have to wait long. The sentry arrived soon, however Glorfindel was unable to get fully satisfactory information on the conversation between the ambassadors and Lord Altenen. They conversed quietly and it was not the guard’s job to hear every word they spoke. In general he understood they spoke of Lady Celebrian and they mentioned sending someone with a report to Lord Thranduil. He got an impression the report was not favourable for his realm and worried that Altenen could have made the situation worst perhaps by telling them that not all Rivendell guests had escorts particularly not Lothlorien ones. The foolish statement could have caused the ambassadors to truly believe in the delusional alliance of two realms.

Glorfindel thanked the sentry and send him away. He had another task to complete. He set out in search of a local healer to the Elrond’s house, Eamane Silimaure. He knew this elven maiden for a fair amount of time and she always proved most competent in her duties although he thought of her more than just someone he would work with, perhaps a friend. He found Eamane is her quarters and she smiled at him with a greeting. He returned the smile addressing her. “Good afternoon Eamane. How fair you?” She said she was well and he explained why he came. “I must ask you of a favour. We have rather high guests arriving to Rivendell in a few days. If you would ask someone to chose a living place for them. I am not sure exactly how many will come, but the group will not be too large. Also they might need medical attention, if you can please take this responsibility yourself for you are one of the best healers we have.” He concealed the worry that the guests might need help right away even if he hoped their trip should go well. “Also, one more thing. In a few hours would you possibly check whether Lord Elrond is well.” He knew she would understand what he meant because it was not the first time he asked to check on Elrond and waited for her response.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Now if I could just find that," Eamane was muttering to herself when there was a knock on the door. "Come in!"
The sudden and only slightly unexpected appearance of the Marchwarden was still a bit of a shock, but luckily he exchanged pleasantries before she actually had to respond. "I'd be only too happy to arrange lodgings for the Lothlorien ambassadors. The Lady Celebrian is among them I hear?" At his surprised expression she added, "There is a rumor flying about that she comes to an arranged marriage with Lord Altenen, among others." Others that worried her actually, but Glorfindel had enough on his plate with the Mirkwood people causing trouble...
She smiled at Glorfindel's request. "I'll be checking on Lord Elrond this evening. He has not been resting as he should thanks to this wretched situation with Mirkwood and Lorien. As if there isn't enough trouble in this world without elves fighting elves."
Eamane looked out at Imladris. She turned back to Glorfindel. "I know my duties well, but I would prefer to not use them on a battlefield, should Imladris be sucked into this madness." Nor did she want to see the Marchwarden in her ward for anything other than a visit. The thought sent a chill to her heart, though he would never know it.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond retired to his quarters, but peace of mind would not come to him. His thought was greatly troubled by all that had transpired earlier...He found the attitude of the Mirkwood elves disturbing; but even more so was the unusual crypticism of Glorfindel. "He knows more that he shares", he thought, abstractedly looking at some documents on his bedside table. "And he does not wish to worry me; but I know, as well as he does, that we may well have a traitor in our midst...I see no other way confidential information might find their way out of Rivendell...I shall have to pressure Glorfindel for some answers later on; his hesitation can only mean one thing: he knows-or otherwise guesses- who our spy may be and that is something I must find out..."

He paused his thinking, looking out of his window; in the distance, he saw Lord Altenen talking leisurely at the Mirkwood ambassadors; Glorfindel approached them, and the elves of Mirkwood left, obviously for their rooms. "Mirkwood and Lorien", he thought now, his musings diverted to the subject that occupied him the most these days, "...and a war that may no longer be avoided! How did it come to this?" He'd asked the ambassadors of both realms that had come to him, but none had provided a satisfactory excuse for the upcoming war; they had said something about mithril mines and wealth, but Elrond found it hard to believe that was the only reason." Another...kinslaying", he thought bitterly, " I have no wish to see that horror happen again! And I will not involve Imladris in this...messy situation."

He observed Altenen struting along the wall of Rivendell. " Celebrian...coming to explore the possibility of a marriage with Lord Altenen", he smiled faintly; that was what everyone thought...and he was glad this piece of information had not come to the attention of anyone; it couldn't, he reminded himself, as he was the only one who knew it...Galadriel hoped to ensure his own alliance with Lorien, through his own marriage with her only daughter-or Celeborn's niece...that nobody, save Elrond himself, knew was also coming to Rivendell..."Both the Lords of Lorien and Thranduil of Mirkwood wish for my alliance..." he sighed now; the balance seemed extremely fragile...

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel listened to Eamane with a sad smile. What she said exactly reflected the mood of many in the realm. “Thank you Eamane.” He said trying to conceal the ill mood. “I suppose it is impossible to hide any news from general knowledge. I won’t be surprised if everyone had found out before those who should know of it did. I would also like not to use my skills against my kin, however if it comes to war…” He did not finish. “I’m sorry I should even speak of this.” He was about to leave when another thought crossed his mind. “Eamane I am currently going back to the Elrond’s estate to check the guard posts. If you are not too busy would you like to accompany me there so you can check on the Lord right now?” Although Elrond promised to rest Glorfindel was still worried that he might not.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Of course," Eamane said. "Just let me get my..." She rummaged around on the table near the door, before liftingher cloak to reveal her Healer's bag. "Here it is." She smiled a bit sheepishly as she fastened the cloak with a brooch at her throat.
"Lose it?" Glorfindel asked with a slight smile.
"Of course not," Eamane said. "I found it." To her inner joy, his smile grew. He did not smile enough. She lifted the bag and added, "Let's go then."
They walked through the city, and Eamane had to stop and speak with every elf they passed, for she had treated many of them at some point or another. Though she was cheerful in her greetings and sincere in her questions, she was ever aware of the tall elf at her side. And the irritation he felt at her frequent pauses. "Relax mellon nin," Eamane murmured at they approached the wall around Elrond's estate. She smiled at his expression even as the sentry appeared.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond's musings were interrupted by a timid knock on the door; a sentry appeared, as he opened. He was a young elf and he bowed low, nervoulsy. "My Lord", he started, but Elrond interrupted him. "What is the matter? Have I not given instruction not to be disturbed for any reason?" he said strictly.

"You have, my Lord", the youngster said, feeling unnerved at the expression on his face, "but Lord Glorfindel and the Lady Eamane, seek an audience with you...";he paused, looking at Elrond uneasily. The Lord of Rivendell sighed; as expected, Glorfindel had come to check up on him, he thought and smiled mirthlessly; his old friend had been so worried that he had even brought the young healer to make sure he was well. "Very well. Show them to my study; I shall be along shortly".

[Ladypain]

"Relax Mellon nin."
"I didn't mean to rush you." He said seriously. The sentry approached them and Glorfindel send him to ask for audience with Lord Elrond. Young elf hesitated but did not dare disapprove the Marchwarden’s request. Glorfindel was sorry he had to send someone. He knew Elrond would not be too excited by another interruption. He silently waited with Eamane for the sentry to return. Soon the elf appeared bidding them to come to the ruler's office. He escorted Eamane into the room and than excused himself leaving with wide stealthy steps before Elrond came into the study.

[Charmander]

Thranduril stood at the edge of his balcony, looking across the lands of Mirkwood. In the distance he heard the sound of hooves quickly approaching. He bent his mind to discover who was approaching - it was a member of the party sent to Imladris! He felt urgency but was unable to get a better reading. He called for his servants to prepare some refreshment in the Hall of Fathers and bid the rider to appear before the Lord.

Thranduril waited patienly as a pair of footsteps came closer to the hall. The double doors slowly swung open and his manservant appeared with Beleg, a squire of the party to Imladris.

The two crossed the large hall filled with statues of the Valar and came to the dais at the front of the room. Behind the dais stood a large statue of the two trees, both illuminating the room and creating an eery glow behind the Lord of Mirkwood.

Beleg bowed low to the Lord and said, 'My Lord, I have been bidden by the head of the party to make haste to inform you of the dealings with Lord Elrond and the ambassadors from Lothlorien. I was able to sneak away unnoticed before Lord Elrond insisted that we be escorted around Imladris.'

Thranduril bid the manservant bring refreshment for Beleg, 'And what news have you brought me? What has been the outcome?'

Beleg slowly looked Thranduril in the eyes and stated, 'My Lord, there seems to be an impasse. Lord Elrond seems unwilling to commit to Mirkwood or Lothlorien. It is our understanding, also, that Lord Altenen is to marry the daughter of Lord Celeborn, Celebrian.'

Thranduril sat back in the dais and looked out across the room. Studying each statue for answers. He looked at Beleg and said, 'Is this all you have to report?'

Beleg nodded to the Thranduril and was promptly dismissed.

Thranduril sat silently for some time in the vast hall. He thought, 'So it is to be an alliance proposed between Imladris and Lothlorien - through this marriage? And Elrond has forseen some doom, perhaps, and is being cautious with my ambassadors. Of all the impudence! I must delay this union - at any cost!'

Thranduril beckoned for his manservant, 'Call my captain forward, have her report to me at once.'

The manservant quickly departed in search of the captain, leaving Thranduril to mull further the information he had received from his scout.

He thought, 'I must do what I can to protect my people and my land. I will not allow the Lord and Lady of Lothlorien to take what is rightfully mine!'

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Coward," Eamane muttered as Glorfindel left. His lack of response, joking or otherwise made her frown. "He's hiding something..." she thought. She cleared her face with a smile and turned to the other door of the study as Lord Elrond entered and bowed. "Hello my lord." She lifted her head and her gaze skimmed his face. "You have not been resting." She frowned. She had put down her bag and now put her hands on her hips. "Are you trying to make my job difficult?" she asked, trying to bring a smile to his face. He looked exhausted.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna countered the blow with one of her own, took a step to the side, whirled and with a ring of metal, her knives were crossed at the throat of one of her soldiers. She sighed. "How many times have I told you to guard your left Riel? That's the third time this morning." She released him by stepping back and sheathing her knives. "You've told me you practiced. Who did you practice with, a tree?"
The other elf stood and was about to answer when the king's manservant cleared his throat at the edge of the field.
Sarna nodded at the young elf at her side. "Nevermind. You go find Toron and get some real practice in. We'll have to try again tomorrow."
She smiled at the manservant. "Come to fetch me to the King I take it?" The servant nodded. "Very well. Do I have timie to clean up?" At hois expression she nodded. "All right then let's go." He lead the way to the Hall of Fathers.
'He doesn't often speak to me here... something's up.' she thought as she bowed before her king.

[Charmander]

The manservant closed the door behind him and Thranduril looked at Sarna. He was glad she had arrived, whenever he need her, she had always done as bidden. He knew he could entrust her with this task.

Thrandruil spoke softly at first, 'I have a task for you Sarna. One that I can entrust only to you. I know that you will not let your lord down.'

Sarna nodded as Thranduril continued, 'It has come to my attention that our ambassadors in Imladris are not faring as well as I had hoped. I have received word that Lord Elrond may be taking steps to ally with Lothlorien - we cannot allow this!'

With this last statement he stood and descended from the dais to stand face-to-face with Sarne, who was familiar with the Lord's manners and did not move but awaited his command.

Thranduril collected himself and said, 'I need you to intercept a party leaving Lothlorien. I understand that there is to be a union, marriage if you will, between Lord Altenen and Celebrian, the daughter of Celeborn and Galadriel. We cannot allow this.'

Sarna spoke for the first time, 'What would you have me do my Lord?'

Thranduril stopped pacing the floor and stood a meter away from Sarna with a wry smile on his face and said, 'We will do what we must. What we must to ensure the safety of our people and our land. I want you to intercept the party leaving from Lothlorien. Take a small host of troops - no more than you see fit. Use stealth and subeterfuge to surprise the party - apprehend the young maidens and bring them back here. This will allow us to have the upper hand, and win this war.'

Sarna stood quietly processing all of Thranduril's orders. She looked up to see that he stood still, waiting her response. She spoke confidently, 'If it be the will of the lord, then it shall be done.'

She bowed low and left the hall to do as the Lord commanded.

Thranduril walked back to the dais and sat down quietly, quickly lost in thought.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna left the Hall of the Fathers deep in thought.Such a task as she had been set was not going to be easy. Nor was it quite to her liking. This squabbling with Lorien had escalated greatly if Thranduril was willing to risk kidnapping the daughter of Galadriel. "Another kin-slaying... and Mirkwood will suffer, as it ever has, since the days of the Necromancer," she said softly in her quarters. She shed her weapons with ease and changed quickly to her forest garb. As she did so, she went over a list of possible troops on this venture. 'No more than five I think. Any more and we'll be tripping over each other. A maid of the Wood will not need more guard than that. Celeborn has strict thoughts on the role of ladies in his court, even with Galadriel as wife.' She snorted as she strapped a dagger to her ankle and turned her thoughts back to the matter at hand. 'Toron would do well as tracker, and I wouldn't mind the Prince at my side either. His is the only bow to rival my own.'
She left her quarters in search of Legolas. She had not seen him since her return from watching the banks of the River Anduin the night before, but that wasn't unusual. She found him gone from his room, and met Riel in the hall outside it. From him she learned of the Prince's departure to Rivendell two days before. Scowling, she told him to gather the soldiers she had selected and meet her in the outer courtyard, ready to leave in two hours.
"Eru help us if there is truly treachery in Rivendell," she said as she returned to her quarters for her things.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel felt Eamane’s accusing glace on his back. He thought it was the second time today he was accused as a coward. Perhaps he deserved it. Secrecy was never his strongest game and anyone who knew him well could always see if he had something to hide. His attention was caught by a shrill voice outside as he was completing the check up on the posts. To his great discontent he recognised already familiar Lorien guest who was arguing with the guard. He unwillingly hurried to the location worried her loud yelling can be heard inside the estate. “I demand to see Lord Elrond!” She complained once again. “This is outrageously rude.” Glorfindel tried his best to be as polite as he could to calm her. “My Lady who have offended you? Perhaps I shall provide better service to you for handling the offenders is my job.” She saw and recognised him before and although Glorfindel didn’t do so well in disguising his ideas it worked. He gallantly offered her his hand hardly listening to the boring and casual complaints meanwhile leading her away from the estate and inserting the absolutely meaningless compassionate phrases pretending he is filled with attention. He opened a side gate letting her out first. “I will do everything I can to help you situation.” He said with a smile as charming as he could manage and than quickly locked the gate leaving her confused and uncertain whether she was insulted or not.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Before Elrond could respond a faint sound caught her ears and she glanced out of the window. At the sight of Glorfindel strolling away, a smile on his face, arm in arm with the Lorien ambassador, her fingers tensed and then relaxed as they rested on her hips. 'He's just trying to get her away from the compound' she told herself before returning her gaze to meet that of Elrond.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian threw a hood of the grey lorien cloak over her hair now blending in with the rest of the group. The Lothlorien guards rode in semi circle around her and Ithildiel with Haldir in the lead. She thought their departure to Rivendell would come later however Lady Galadriel suddenly changed her mind in fear that the news of their trip became too well known and she hoped to avoid the danger by early departure before anyone had a chance to devise any plans. Few swift messengers came between Lothlorien and Rivendell who were soon to reach Imladris with the news. Celebrian puzzled over the last words to her from Galadriel. She wanted no message to be passed to Lord Elrond but Celebrian felt he was the one Galadriel wanted her to see. She wondered who the Lord she heard so much of really was for she never saw him before. Not far off in the distance she noted a line of trees that marked the first Imladris borders.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel sighed with relief finally having rid the estate of all the nuisance of guests. He planned to visit the military quarters just in case there would be any news for him and then to go home to get some rest as well. The Marchwarden hardly had more sleep than Rivendell Lord in the past few days. His dreams for several peaceful hours failed to accomplish. As soon as he reached the head quarters information from Lothlorien came in that Lady Celebrian was well on her way to Rivendell. Glorfindel estimated probable speed she would travel with and that of the messenger and understood he must departure immediately to intercept her group. He selected four more sentries to accompany him and they came riding out armed several moments later.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

(OOC: You have been busy!lol Ok, here I go!)

Elrond was faced with Eamane as soon as he entered his study; a little surprised, he noted Glorfindel's absence.He had expected to dismiss the young healer quickly, as to discuss the situation, once again with his Merchwarden, but it appeared Glorfindel had had other duties to attend to. "Or simply no desire to confront me...", he thought dismally.

"You have not been resting." She frowned. She had put down her bag and now put her hands on her hips. "Are you trying to make my job difficult?" she asked, trying to bring a smile to his face. He looked exhausted.

Before he had the chance to answer Eamane's question, a racket from below and the mention of his own name, drew him, along with the Lady healer, to the window; he saw Glorfindel leave the compound, arm-in-arm with the Lorien ambassador, a lady of Galadriel's court; unnoticed, he glanced over at Eamane; her feelings for his old friend were no secret to him-although Glorfindel had never seemed to have noticed-and he now saw a cloud pass over Eamane's eyes, a cloud she was quick to suppress, before turning to face him again, a stern look in her eyes.

"Do not give me that look", Elrond said, a cool smile on his face. "Have you forgotten who it was that taught you in the healing arts? I have no need of rest; I am not weary nor am I ill. Worried, perhaps, and greatly distressed...but not physically impaired in any way...This whole affair with Lothlorien and Mirkwood is liable to drive any sane elf insane!" he tried to sound more cheerful and carefree than he felt; his heart was heavy with some unidentifiable distress.

"And Glorfindel worries too much...though he is part of my worries as well", he added. " I know he means well, but I also know he tries too hard to keep events from me, so as not to add to my worries...and only managing to worry me further", he broke out, only half-seriously-or so he tried to make it."In any case...you are not needed here, young lady", he concluded stubbornly, ignoring Eamane's reprimanding expression.

(OOC: OK, Elrond is not a really easy patient! :p )

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

They were close to Rivendell now, Ithildiel thought, looking around, as she rode in the lead. Haldir had fallen behind, as rearguard and she felt oddly uneasy; a strange sense of vigilance came over her, increasing with every passing mile, as they now drew close to the borders of Elrond's realm. She was still a little unnerved by Galadriel and Celeborn's sudden change of plans, though she fully understood their reasons; the element of surprise was never a bad idea...all the more so, if there was even the slightest possibility that enemies-namely, Mirkwood-might have known of their departure.

She glanced around uneasily, once more; there was something in the lands they were crossing now, some unnatural quietness...Motioning for one of the guards to take the lead, she fell back, riding beside Celebrian, pulling her cloak aside a little at the same time, so that her long knife could be easliy drawn, if need should arise;she had kept her weapons concealed since they'd left Lorien, knowing full-well how Celeborn would react to her going to Imladris armed like...like a man, she thought now, smiling despite herself.

Still smiling, she slowed down her horse to match the speed of Celebrian's mount; her cousin didn't know, but Ithildiel had seen her conceal a pair of double knives under her long cloak before they left and was a little puzzled; to her knowledge, Celebrian had only had rudimentary weapons' training and that was done in secret...if anything happened, the guards would do everything to protect her. She noticed Celebrian didn't seem too happy, riding in the midst of the garrison, surrounded on all sides by armour-clad elves.

"Are you tired?" Ithil asked, noticing her cousin's pallour, under her heavy hood. " I think we'll be there before nightfall..."

[EamaneSilimaure]

"As if I could forget your training my lord. It's that training that tells me you are exhausted beyond your endurance." Eamane's face was as stern as his.
She put a hand on his arm.
"Please, allow me to help you. You must rest, if you are to have a clear head for the coming councils."
She bent to her bag and lifted it again. Opening it she removed a small packet. "At least drink some tea, and sit down."
'On the bed preferably, as I don't know if I can lift you,' she thought going quickly to make the tea before he could stop her.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel did not get to ride too far to greet Lady Celebrian’s escort. At the gates he was intercepted by another message. Although the Lady set out earlier than expected her travelling pace was much slower than he thought and she has not yet entered Imladris borders. On the other hand Prince Legolas was spotted and the border sentry has reported a pack of orcs trailing him. Glorfindel heartedly cursed everyone for not being able to stick to the original plans and of course he was not informed of this when needed. He was confused by conflicting messages and also worried because Elrond warned him about the possible threat from the orcs. Prince Legolas was first expected to arrive therefore Glorfindel chose to alter the route and help him first. Lady Celebrian did not appear in any immediate danger. There better be a lot of orcs to fight or I’m going to break something he thought in sheer frustration.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

(OOC: NOT that easily!lol )

Elrond smiled faintly. Eamane's intentions were obvious to him,her mind an open book right now but he did not speak, while she prepared the tea; he pretended to be busy with some papers, as she poured a small amount of a white powder in his cup. He appreciated her sentiments...and her attentiveness, but now really was no time for sleep...there was just too much to do. He realised, not without some amusement despite his exhaustion, that he was beiing a very bad patient. "But I am no patient", he thought to himself, "and I need to keep a clear head...No sleeping herbs for me, if I am to sleep-a prospect he found next to impossible with all that he had on his head at the moment-it must be natural sleep..."

Eamane passed him a cup of tea, smiling kindly. "Very well, Eamane", he sighed, feigning compliance. " There is always time for a cup of tea, I suppose. And the way you make it is superb". He sat behind his study, cup still in hand, but did not drink.

[EamaneSilimaure]

'It's not like I'm poisoning him or anything. 4 hours of much needed rest is a gift.' Eamane told herself, as she passed him the cup. She smiled kindly, her bedside manner perfect beyond any doubt. She had had a good teacher.

"Glorfindel has put me in charge of finding lodgings for our coming guests." She said, trying to get him talking so that he would relax and take a drink. He seemed amused about something. "I was thinking the guest houses at the edge of your estate. On opposite sides of course, but near to you just the same, as they have higher status than the ones here now."

She glanced out the window again, trying to hide her nerves, and went to prepare some tea of her own. Returning to the desk she put it down before going to the window. She could see the main guest house from there.

"It really is a lovely house."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

(OOC: lol )

Elrond admired Eamane's coolness, despite her apparent anxiousness. As she prepared her own tea, he smelled his own; the distinct, but faint smell of sleeping herb came to his nostrils. He was right, Eamane had been trying to get him to sleep. He was not sure whether to smile or be furious at the healer's action; he knew, though, she was only trying to act in his best interest and could hold her no grudge for that;he had always had a soft spot for her, having trained her himself. As she placed her tea on his desk, turning to look outside the window, he was swift to exchange his cup with hers.

Eamane came to sit across from him, taking her cup in her hands, eyeing him anxiously. Elrond smiled and took a small sip of tea.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian grew weary with each mile they rode. She found herself a poor rider and wanted to get off the horse at least for a brief period. She didn’t suspect their trip would be so difficult for her to endure. Used to the restful shadows, cool forests and crystal cold hidden streams of Lothlorien she suffered from the heat under direct rays of the sun. The heavy cloak was not helping her condition at the crest of the summer, which was one of the hottest in ages. She avoided looking at the bright sun reflections on her escorts armour. Celebrian was not comfortable being surrounded by guards and their presence made her nervous as if some trouble was about to befall on them. Her cousin slowed down and sided with Celebrian. "Are you tired?" Ithildiel noticed her condition. "I think we'll be there before nightfall…” Celebrian answered. “I should be fine however it will not do us any good if I arrive to Imladris exhausted.” She called a bit little louder. “Haldir. We need to make a stop.”

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel rode swiftly ahead, after Celebrian's request for a stop. Swiftly,the elven guards came to a stop; they had come to a small clearing, and they all dismounted; Ithil had a feeling everyone was happy for the break from the march. She knew their orders were to reach Rivendell as soon as possible, but was afraid for Celebrian, knowing this was her first trip so far away from home. Leaving her horse to the care of one of the guards, she stretched leisurely, before going to her cousin; Celeb was keeping her cloak tightly wrapped around her despite the stifling heat, Ithil thought worriedly; was she not feeling well?

"Celebrian", she said softly, as she came to her cousin, who stood uncertain in the middle of the clearing, "are you all right?What's the matter, mellon nin?"

[Ladypain]

Celebrian answered to her cousin. “Lothlorien is ever so silent, yet the birds and wild life does not cease to whisper in its woods. These glades are unusually quiet. I find it strange and unwelcoming as if we are watched.” She laughed nervously. “I probably appear foolish with these childish fears.” She held the cloak wrapped around her as if it would protect her from unexpected danger. “Poor adventuress I make.” She was disappointed with her own endurance. Unfamiliar surroundings enveloped in tension and heat intimidated her.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel smiled uneasily; so, her cousin,as well, had noticed the unnatural quiet...she knew the sentrieswere restless, too; Haldir had already told her they would have to move on and do so quickly.

"You are quite right", she said calmly, "it IS too quiet in these lands; I do not like it either...but we are well-protected and close to the borders of Rivendell....we'll be fine", she added, hiding her worry from her cousin. "will you do me a favour now, mellon nin?"

Celebrian looked at her puzzled. "Will you remove your cloak? It is not healthy for you to walk around in such heavy raiment in this heat", she smiled, pushing her own hood back and her cloak, too; stealth had commanded wearing them in the woods, but she felt it unnecessary now; her knives and bow gleamed in the sunlight.Celebrian nodded, a little uncertainly; gently, Ithil removed Celebrian's hood, allowing the light breeze to cool her flushed face. "That's better", she gave her cousin a naughty smile. "Now, tell me...what is it that really bothers you?It is not only the heat and the quiet of this place, is it?Are these the tell tale signs of tears I see upon your face?" she asked, concerned and greatly worried.

Around them, the land seemed entirely still...

[Charmander]

The Hall of Fathers had grown quiet, Thranduril had been lost in thought for hours since the departure of Cpt. Sarna. He knew he could rely on her to give Mirkwood the advantage in the coming war. He stood and left the Hall of Fathers and went back to his quarters.

He looked across the lands of Mirkwood from his balcony and thought of his son. His thoughts strayed back to their last conversation. Thranduril had called him to a council meeting, all his captains and adivsers were present. A great debate was ensuing as all were concerned about the growing uneasiness of relations between Mirkwood and Lothlorien. He decided to call his son forth and have him seek counsel and assistance from Lord Elrond.

Thrandruil spoke sternly, 'My son, I need you to go to Imladris and seek counsel from Lord Elrond. You must curry his favour to Mirkwood so that we will have the advantage.'

The room grew silent as all present wished to hear the response of the young prince. Many thought him much like his father. Legolas stood silent for a moment to collect his thoughts, then looked his father in the face and said, 'I will go Imladris, as you command, but I do not believe that there will be any victory through other channels. I believe we must speak directly to Celebron and Galadriel, see if we can not come to an agreement that will lead to far less bloodshed.'

There was a sharp intake of breathe as all present turned their gaze from son to father. Thranduril responed, 'My son, in this matter I will not abide any notions than my own. You will do as you are bidden and send word of your success. Leave at once.'

Legolas bowed to his father and said, 'As you wish, my lord.' The last words being spit at the lord of Mirkwood.

A sharp knock at the door prematurely woke Thranduril from his thoughts. He was being beckoned to a meeting with his advisers.

[Charmander]

Legolas had left Mirkwood in a hurry. His fathers orders could not be disoyed, nor should they be - he well knew. He had been riding for days for Imladris and had slowed his progress because of unusual activites. He had not had time to dwell on the last words he spoke to his father, more out of anger than hate. He wished his father valued his opinion as much as he did his counsellors. He had traveled much of Middle Earth and felt wise beyond his years, despite his young age. He wanted to play a more prominent part in the dealings with Lothlorien and felt his visit to Imladris would not hasten a solution by any means.

The forest around him had gotten less dense and he felt vulnerable in this vast plain. As he thought this a long horn blow could be heard above him. To his dismay the young prince had been spotted by a band of orcs. He had been riding for days and was uncertain if his horse could make a mad dash for Imladris. He spoke quiet words to the horse to hasten to the Ford of Bruinen, which was many leagues away. As he did this he pulled out his bow and an arrow and began to size up the Orcs. There were at least fifty and a handful on Wargs. Legolas had wished he had listened to his father's counsel in this; he should have brought an escort.

As Legolas looked up the hill that the Orcs were quickly descending he could not help but notice that something seemed to glimmer at the top of the hill. It was a bird of some sort, a hawk perhaps...did the lady of the wood have control over animals? Had someone informed the Orcs of his passing? He did not have much time to mull the thoughts. His horse raced towards Imladris as he shot arrow after arrow.

To his dismay the prince quickly realised that he did not have near enough arrows to kill the Orcs from a distance. He could not allow them to get any closer, he knew not where more may appear. As the last arrow from his quiver was shot he looked forward and saw help arriving. Apparently word had reached Imladris that he was in need.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel with more sentries followed the border guard where he claimed the Mirkwood Prince was assaulted. Soon the lead became unnecessary for the forest was turning to plane and he saw a figure fighting them off from the distance however the rider appeared to have being running out of arrows to keep the enemy at bay and the orcs were gaining on him. Glorfindel gestured the sentry into a semi circle that would lock on both sides around the field for he didn’t want the orcs escaping. The orcs too excited by their chase at first didn’t notice the Rivendell elites who changed their course to intercept the band from aside. When orcs finally heard an approach and turned to face new enemy their shift came a moment too late and Glorfindel ran his horse through their hoard knocking down many. The sentry advanced into close combat. Swords fell against crude weaponry and the skirmish was brief ending as quickly as it started. The elves cleared the field and none of them were severely hurt. Glorfindel now turned his attention to an elf they came to greet. He slightly bowed as much as a mount would allow him. “I assume I have an honour to speak with Prince Legolas?” He said.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

(OOC: Great writing, LP and Charmander! :grin: )


Elrond opened his eyes slowly...the room around him was oddly dark and quiet; Eamane had left. He lay on his bed, warmly covered by the heavy coverlets, but had no recollection of how he had come to be there.

"Eamane..." he thought, trying to clear his mind, " both of the cups were drugged...I think I might have taught her a little too well", he thought hazily, still drowsy from his sleep. "That is exactly what I would have done..." He could not feel upset at her, though; he smiled faintly; he was quite proud of her, although she had outsmarted him in this instance. He felt extremely queasy and he knew the sleeping solution was still at work; the compound felt oddly quiet and his sleep had been disturbed by dreams of war and blood, yet he felt more refreshed..."There nothing for the dizziness, but to sleep the herb off", he thought, all his senses still numbed and went back to sleep...

[Eomund]

Haldir judged the way thigns were harshly, as he knew the threat of orcs was too great and if they would not be ready to leave before nightfall to Imladris, then they would be in serious trouble. He called two of his riders and said them to scout ahead and be on their guards. Aswell he did send two of his best units to guard the rear, they were told to move about 300 metres behind the escort and to blow their horns in the first trouble.

Haldir went a little more ahead and he heard footsteps in the dark and then he saw birds fly out from the woods. He rode back to others and yelled: On horses, we ride now. Quickly. Soldiers mounted their horses so quickly as they would have been under an attack already.

[Ladypain]

The introductions were brief after which Glorfindel ordered return to Rivendell. He still had to greet Lady Celebrian. He rode in silence trying to hide his frustration at their riding temp which was much slower than he desired but he understood the tired mount of the Mirkwood Prince would not be able to keep up. In addition he was uncertain how their guest would react to receiving no formal welcome from Imladris Lord who Glorfindel guessed was sleeping. He imagined Elrond angry having to miss the arrival of both parties.

When at last they reached the gates Glorfindel ordered the sentry back to their stations leaving only the four he initially chose to go with him. He turned to Legolas with an apology without really revealing where Lord Elrond was and asked one of the sentries to show Mirkwood Prince to Eamane who would know where young elf’s residence should be and to see to their guests needs. His party rapidly left leaving the Prince to wonder.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithil looked at Celebrian, waiting for an answer that was not forthcoming; Celeb seemed lost in thought. As she finally opened her mouth to speak, there was a fuss across their small encampment; Ithil sprang to her feet, knife drawn and ready. The elven escort looked around, struggling to get at their weapons, forgotten in the leisurely stop.

A party of elves, all clad in black and brown, bearing no insignia whatsoever to reveal their identity, stormed the small party that was still fumbling for their weapons. "Protect the princess!" called Ithil and moved towards Celebrian, standing in front of her, eyeing the swift invaders anxiously. They were no more than ten, a woman in their lead; she looked strong and well-versed in the art of war; her eyes fell upon Ithil and the princess of the Galadhrim, still too dazed to react. Ithil heard Haldir calling their escort to arms. "Celebrian", she said anxiously, her eyes still upon the other woman, "whatever happens, stay with me, OK?"

[Eomund]

((i was almost right))

Haldir rode to the soldiers and yelled :" Protect the princess." But after seeing that enemies were closing up, he yelled: "Ride out of here Celebrian, ride now...we'll hold them off" and Haldir tried to closen to the princess but hewas pushed away...

[Ladypain]

Celebrian was uncertain how to respond to her cousin’s question. She wanted to share with Ithildiel but the shyness stood as a barrier. At last she opened her mouth to share when a strange action stopped her. A net suddenly fell on two guards on the opposite side of the glade behind Ithildiel’s back and two more characters jumped from the surrounding bushes knocking down her escort. The words and cries muffled in her mind. “Stay with me.” She watched a tall woman charging directly at them however Haldir intercepted her at the last moment with an attack so swift it was barely visible to the eye. The woman dodged drawing her weapon and Celebrian saw surprise brush over Haldir as the two tangled in struggle. The princess stood motionless mesmerized by the battle around her when a forceful arm wrapped around her waist and jerked backwards. The rude jerk brought Celebrian out of stupor and she pulled her knife deeply slicing it into the hand. With unexpected energy she ripped herself out of the iron like grasp and turned to face her opponent. Although it was impossible to tell who it was completely covered in brown Celebrian saw sudden spark of anger in strangers eyes and she saw the shine of steel. She jumped backwards deflecting the blow with her long knife surprised by her own calmness. A motion right behind her attacker captured her attention and she suddenly stretched her free arm pointing to several mounted sentries emerging from the Imladris borders. “Look!” She cried.

[Eomund]

Haldir noticed the sentries and fought with much greater force now, he stabbed the elf but armor was imprenetable so he just rushed towards the princess who was in deep trouble as Haldir had noticed. Haldir then plunged his sword into the enemy but it jumped backwards and ran away. Still the great woman warrior still fought but it could be seen that she was also wounded by Haldir.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithil was about to attack the strange woman who seemed to be leading the group, when Haldir came between them, engaging her in combat in her stead; stunned,she saw Celebrian attack one of the elves that had tried to seize her; as soon as Haldir injured the woman ,their attackers fell back, as suddenly as they had come forward, leaving none behind; Ithil noticed they carried off 2 of their group that appeared injured, just as she saw a group of mounted sentries galop swiftly towards them from the side of Imladris. Immediately, she recognised the crest of Elrond upon their armour.

She hurried to Haldir who was preparing to give chase. "Stand down", she said. "It seems we are out of danger". As she spoke to her old friend, the Rivendell elves were dismounting. One of them, their leader apparently, approached her and Haldir, observing the scene of the obvious fight. "I am Ithildiel, niece of Celeborn of Lorien.I travel to your land with my cousin, the Lady Celebrian, Princess of Lotlorien", Ithil stepped forward, addressing the other formally. She glanced sideways at Celeb, who was observing her bloodied clothes numbly. "We need to get to Imladris and swiftly; it seems we were ambushed by bandits a few moments ago; your arrival and our resistance warded them off, but we'd appreciate an escort; we have some injured...Further explanation will have to keep!"she added, seeing the question coming and in too much of a hurry to debate further. The elf nodded and soon, they were being safely escorted into the realm of Rivendell.

(catching on, I see, Eomund! ;) OK, now we wait for Sarna-aka Eamane- to post, I think...unless you and LP plan that little investigation she's talking about in the OOC!And read the whole RP! ;) ))

[Eomund]

Haldir checked during the ride casualties and for heavens sake only four men were injured and others were allright. When they reached the gates Haldir commanded the men to move to stables and then to escort Princess to the Council.

Haldir said to the Princess: " In a moment we'll come back, wait at the door of the hall."
Then they went, they moved quickly and those who had been hurt were ordered to go with the healers who had come.

[Ladypain]

As their party reached the Imladris borders Glorfindel finally noticed a fight ahead of them just outside their realm. He hastened his horse assuming Lady Celebrian has run into unexpected problem however he could not tell for sure through chaos and trees who he should be helping. As they approached the scene closer several figures broke off from the glade and ran. He regretted having to take too few and now could give pursuit. He stopped by the glade and dismounted going towards a tall blonde elf he judged the leader of the group by the designs of his armor and a beautiful noble Lady standing near him. His assumption was correct as the elf maiden addressed him explaining the situation. He bowed simply introducing himself as Glorfindel and offered any assistance prior to going. He normally would speak more however he was too tired by insane events and preferred a silent role of a guide. The Lothlorien elves were given brief, competent orders by their leader and soon they were ready to continue their trip. They reached Rivendell without any farther problems.

[Ladypain]

The fight ended. Celebrian stood indifferently observing the red spots on her dress. She was too stunned to carefully access the situation around her. On the ground she spotted the cloak she lost in a fight and picked it up wrapping it around her once more. Celebrian’s mount was brought near but she didn’t have the courage to attempt anymore riding fearful she would fall off. Finally she was carefully lifted into the saddle ahead of Haldir and she spent the rest of the trip clinging to his armor.

[Ladypain]

As soon as they have arrived to the city and ordered horses into the stables Glorfindel saw a party approach them that made him cringe. Lord Altenen in all glory surrounded by his private armed sentries approached them. Glorfindel had no choice but to introduce them to Lady Celebrian. The Lady gave evaluating look to an elf with light brown hair cut unusually short, brown eyes, somewhat bend nose, thin lips. Overall Altenen had somewhat rapacious facial expression although it was not unpleasant. He bent low before the Lady speaking. “My Lady may I welcome you to Imladris. I have taken responsibility to offer you and your escort quarters in my household. Where my private sentries might protect you from any harm. If you would please follow me.” The Lady appeared startled but she responded with a light smile although she did not feel like laughing. “Thank you Lord Altenen. I appreciate your troubles however will you sentries also protect me from malicious gossip?” She tried to joke. “As I said they will protect you from everything.” Said Altenen in haste and Glorfindel suppressed a chuckle at the Princess’ confused expression as if she was wondering whether Altenen was joking or he was foolish indeed. Glorfindel chose to interfere. “I am sorry Altenen but the Lady is tired by her journey. Before making any decisions where she must stay I recommend she is examined by our healers.” He offered his arm to escort the Lady before Altenen found what to say and motioned both Lady Celebrian and Lady Ithildiel to Eamane’s private ward. Luckily the healer already returned from her tasks and Glorfindel left the maidens in her care excusing himself to leave.

At the ward entrance he stopped to converse with an elf he came to know as Haldir. “I apologize for the lack of formal welcome by Lord Elrond to this party however your visit came unexpectedly early. If you allow me I shall report this incident to the Lord. Meanwhile if I may suggest you are shown to your real place of residence.” He pointed to an elf maid whom Eamane appointed to show everyone to their quarters. “If you have no farther questions I must go.” Said Glorfindel. He felt it was vital to retort everything to Elrond and he deeply hoped the Lord of Imladris was already awake.

[Eomund]

Hadldir met the elf who had come to meet them with the sentries at the ward entrance, elf known as Glorfindel said:"I apologize for the lack of formal welcome by Lord Elrond to this party however your visit came unexpectedly early. If you allow me I shall report this incident to the Lord. Meanwhile if I may suggest you are shown to your real place of residence. If you have no farther questions I must go."

Haldir replied: "No, I have no questions caun" and Haldir saw Glorfindel moving abroad to the Lord's rooms.

Now Haldir folowed the healer to his rooms and then took off his helmet and soonfound himself moving to the way Princess should be.

[Charmander]

Prince Legolas was most wearied from his journey. He had been shown to his quarters at Imladris by the healer, who seemed out of sorts when they had met. His room overlooked the valley and he imagined the sun would wash into his room in the morning. He went out to the balcony to look upon the splendour of Imladris and was awed. He had often heard his father speak of Imladris as being a great city among elves. It had an enchanted feeling to it, even the plants and trees seemed more robust, different than those found in Mirkwood. Despite his departure he still missed his home. He enjoyed traveling, but found himself happiest at home where he was often able to collect his thoughts. He took a deep breath and pictured Mirkwood in his mind. A flood of memories washed over him. His last confrontation with his father had gone less than well. Thranduril was a great leader, this Legolas knew, but he was uncertain that his father was completely clear-headed about his decisions, especially of late. A new adviser had risen from the ranks, Legolas shuddered to think of him. He made evereyone uneasy, even the unshakeable Cpt. Sarna, whom he had wished to speak with before his departure. He tried to leave word for her but did not have time. His mind hazed back to his last meeting with his father

Legolas had quickly left the meeting and headed straight for his quarters. His father had made it very clear that he was to do as he was told. He thought himself more of an equal to his father and knew he would be displeased with his comments at the meeting. He immediately began to get his things together as he heard a sharp rap on the door. Thranduril entered before Legolas was able to respond.

Thrandruil spoke before his son could open his mouth, "I am glad to see that you are making ready to leave." He walked across the room and then back, pacing. "I do not ask much of you, but obediance in public is one of them."

The Lord of Mirkwood stopped before his son and gave him a stern look. Legolas knew that his father would not be pleased until he had said his part, he stood silent waiting for the torrent to begin anew.

Thranduril spoke softly, "I can appreciate that you are trying to do what you believe best. I am wise beyond your years, have seen and lived more, in this I will not be denied. You must make Lord Elrond know of the truth between Mirkwood and Lothlorien."

Legolas could hold his tongue no longer, "Father! You have always told me to speak my mind, to see from all angles - this is what you told me would make me a great leader. But you have not done so and now ask me to do as you will not?"

Thranduril did not care for the tone in his son's voice and said, "I will not abide this behaviour in my house!"

Legolas responded, "Then it is good that I shall be leaving soon enough!" He froze as he uttered those words. Never had he meant to be disrespectful to his father. He knew the hardship and war that he had endured, but this close-minded behaviour was unacceptable.

Thranduril spoke quickly, "If this is how you feel then by all means please depart. But rememeber this my son," he stepped close to Legolas as he moved to pass him, "As your father I have done all that I can to make your life better than mine once was. Do this for me, and we will see the glory of Mirkwood restored!"

With that Thranduril left, leaving his son to make his long trip to Imladris.

Legolas woke from his reverie as a bird swooped before him. He was glad to be in Imladris, but believed his chore would be near impossible to acheive. He knew of Lord Elrond, but had never met. One of the most learnd of all elves - how could a young prince convince a wise elf of something that he himself did not believe whole-heartedly?

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

((OOC:I just have to say..fantastic posts everyone!!I have a lot of catching up to do!)

Elrond rose, at last, feelinh more rested than he had expected; his spirits had greatly improved and he felt tremendously invigorated by his sleep. "Never underestimate the healing power of sleep", he smiled to himself as he changed into a dark blue robe. The one he had been wearing had been wrinkled from his sleeping in it and he did not wish to look grungy, not with those meddlesome Mirkwood ambassadors here...would not want to give their forked tongues even more to speak of, he thought, his mood changing again; the good spirit brought to him by the much needed rest was leaving him. He sensed something was happening...something did not feel right.

He left his quarters and descended into the compound. He saw a couple of the guards looking at him uneasily, before noticing Altenen, casually chatting with a few of his own bodyguards. He approached him quickly. "Altenen", he said, as both the Lord of Arms and the sentries bowed low before him and Emrond motioned them to stand, "what is going on here?" He had already seen a few elves, in full battle armour heasding for the stables on his way out.

Altenen gave him a cool smile. "We have got visitors, my lord", he said calmly and though Elrond did not notice, there was a sly glimmer in the other one's eyes. "Both the Prince of Mirkwood and the Princess of Lothlorien have arrived...Did you not know of that?" he asked, feigning naivete. "Elrond did not reply, giving a killer look to his Man-at- arms. "Where is Lord Glorfindel?" he asked coldly. "He went to show the ladies of Lorien to the healers' ward", Altenen replied, still sounding innocent. "Is something the matter, my Lrd?" he asked concernedly. "Go and find Glorfindel at once", Elrond said, his voice cold as ice; Altenen cowered in his gaze right now. "I shall see him in the healers' ward in 10 minutes". Altenen bowed again, but Elrond stayed him. "Do not waste my time with useless bowing. Go". Altenen had no choice but to go as swiftly as he could

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel watched Celebrian anxiously, as they rode into Rivendell. She appeared to be in shock, she thought, nervous herself, as she rode by the side of Glorfindel. Her cousin clung on to Haldir's armour, and she could see her hands shaking even from where she was.

"So, this is the fabled Glorfindel", she thought, trying to divert herself; a glance she had exchanged with Haldir told her he, as well, was worried for the Lady of Lorien. "The marchwarden of Imladris..." She had known at once who he was, though she did not know his name, and had to admit she had been impressed..."We'll need to take Celebrian to a healer", she addressed him now," I am greatly worried for her". Glorfindel nodded, but did not speak, his keen eyes still scanning the brush around them.

Soon, they had come into Imladris, where another elf greeted them. Glorfindel had seemed less than happy to see him and,judging by the expression on Haldir's face, their old friend and escort had not liked the elf either. Ithildiel thought he seemed...too poised and sure of himself for her liking. She was about to step in, when he offered to put them up at his home, but, luckily, Glorfindel had done it for her; Celebrian seemed lost at his attitude and Ithil had got enraged with his manner to her kinswoman. As a maiden escorted them to the healers' compound, Ithil fell by Celebrian's side. " So, that was Lord Altenen", she whispered, only heard by her cousin. "Cannot say I like him much", she added indifferently, concealing her dislike for him. "Are you OK, nildenya?" she asked softly, seeing all colour having drained from Celebrian's face.Not waiting for an answer, she put a supporting arm around Celebrian's shoulders, fearing she might faint.

[Eomund]

"Defender, chief of defense, marchwarden, no name of those is useful if you cant ake and destroy a handful of enemies with an escort, i wish we had killed them. Then it would have been a shock to the enemy. I wonder who the enemy is." Haldir said to one of his soldiers, actually a lieutenant - taidron - second-in-command after himself. "I wish that Lord Elrond speaks of that during the council, and didn't someone mention there were to be a feast after it."

Taidron replied: " I don't like that lord, whatever he was, hmm, Aidron, no Altenen... he was suspicious. Sure he hopes that Celebrian is wedded to him for he would be third in Rivendell and actually more powerful than Imladris itself... wonderful.

Could not the attackers be some of the tree-elves; you, lord, or someone else shouted it was an elf, elves."

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel nearly collided with Altenen at the steps to the Elrond’s estate. Altenen was running like a pack of orcs was chasing after him armed with bows and spears. “Glorfindel.” Altenen quickly recovered and now was observing Marchwarden in utter pleasure. Marchwarden was fairly wrecked from the lack of sleep and having to spend several hours galloping around Imladris fighting orcs and greeting various parties. “Lord Elrond really wants to see you in healers ward in ten minutes. It concerns our guests.” Glorfindel created a dry smile. “Thank you. I shall report there immediately.” Glorfindel tensed. If Elrond could forgive him for sending Eamane he certainly would not forgive having to miss both parties and in addition having to find out about the events from Altenen. Glorfindel cast a suspicious look at Altenen wondering how that elf found out of Lady Celebrian’s coming before he brought her to Rivendell.

As they made this brief exchange Elrond appeared at the end of the hall walking towards them. Even from this distance the elf could tell how angry the ruler was. Glorfindel walked towards Elrond however he deliberately slowed his footsteps arranging the last of his energy for this affront. Grinning Altenen closely followed him. At last two parties reached each other. “I found Glorfindel My Lord. If you have no farther things to ask of me may I please go?” Said Altenen with annoyingly ceremonial bow. Elrond nodded. “You may go.” Altenen bowed again before quickly retreating. Glorfindel was ready and calmly looked at Lord of Imladris. “You asked to see me?” He said.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna sped into the trees, followed closely by the others. She held a hand to her side, where the Lorien elf had managed to slash her. When they had gotten to the meeting place, a safe distance from the ambush site, she held up a hand to halt her soldiers.

"What's our status?" she asked Toron, leaning against a tree..

"It's clear. We were not followed. Riel and Kelumo are both wounded," Toron said, coming to rest at her side.

Sarna looked around. Alcon was wrapping Riel's ribs. "I told him to guard his left," she muttered. Kelumo was winding a bandage around his hand, where the Princess, who had been thought a maid unversed in war, had slashed him. "I wasn't expecting the Rivendell elves to show up like that, nor such a strong defense. The elf I faced was Lothlorien's head of defense, I'm sure of it."

"We're going to have to try to get into the city now," Toron said.

"I know. And with security in the city on such a high alert that Imladris' sentries came out almost before we attacked, it will take some plotting," Sarna said. She stood to go to Riel, and couldn't control her grimace.

"What is it?" Toron asked.

"Just a scratch," Sarna snapped. "We'll rest here for now, but we must move off again. They'll send trackers." Quickly she pulled a cloth from the pack she had hidden at the base of the tree, and bound her wound. She walked among her men. Alcon and Kelumo were the only ones not wounded. They were tending their weapons now, and she told them all to rest.

Taking a seat back at the tree, she stared into the afternoon light. It was different here, out of the dimness of Mirkwood. She went over the battle in her mind. It had gone off perfectly, on the parts of her men, but she had not planned for all circumstances apparently. The day passed into evening, and still she sat in silence. In the light of the stars, she turned to Toron, where he waited and she smiled. "I have a plan."

((OOC: How's that for a return? :) ))

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

((OOC: Great return, Eamane! ;) ))

Elrond observed Altenen depart, obviously quite pleased with himself, then eyed Glorfindel furiously for a few moments, not failing to notice his marchwarden looked pale and haggard and in desperate need of rest."Follow me", he said dryly, leading the way to a secluded chamber, not too far from his own quarters, where they could speak unheard by all.

"What is it than Altenen told me? And why was it Altenen the one to tell me that we had so many new arrivals in Imladris?" he said,once they had settled down -Glorfindel slumping into a large armchair- his voice cold as ice. "I am told both the Prince of Mirkwood and the Princesses of Lothlorien have arrived and both parties met with trouble on the way...and I was sleeping, none the wiser, thanks to you!And it is Altenen who informs me of all of this...that is your duty, not that pompous idiot's! What have you to say for yourself? Start by telling me all that has happened...and do so quickly. My patience is growing really thin right now".

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

" I am quite all right!" Ithil said coolly, to the maiden who had led them to their quarters; Celebrian had been taken to the room next door and all she really wanted was to be left alone, so as to check on her cousin. Celebrian had not uttered a single word to her since the attack in the glade outside Rivendell. "Very well, my lady", the maiden said coyly, "Lady Eamane, one of our best healers, shall be with you shortly". "Hannon le", Ithil uttered a hasty thanks and, taking off her cloak and bow, but not her knife, went next door; she entered Celebrian's room without knocking;her cousin still sat motionless in her blood-soiled travelling clothes. Ithil concealed her concern, and her own weariness, as she went to sit by her side. "Are you all right, mellon nin?" she asked softly. "I think you are safe now...please, talk to me", she implored. "What is the matter with you?"

Celeb turned to look at her, her beautiful eyes threatening tears, when a knock on the door startled them both, "It must be the healer..." sighed Ithil, not really grateful for the interruption, but relieved for the arrival of help. "Come in", she called; a slender elven maiden with red hair and a very fair and kind face walked in, a little nervously.

((OOC: seeting the stage for meeting Eamane... :blush: ))

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel exchanged his leisurely stretched position in the armchair he usually had for straight posture as to avoid irritating the leader farther. “Unfortunately I can only offer more riddles than questions.” He was trying to speak calmly but a ring of frustration came out few times as he made a long speech explaining the events. “As soon as I left your estate I was told Prince Legolas was attacked by a band of orcs. We managed to get there in time to bring the visitor to Imladris unharmed. As soon as we got here other news came in of Lady Celebrian approaching our borders. I was not so lucky to reach her in time before she was ambushed right outside of Imladris. The attacking group fled when they saw our approach. No one can tell yet who those were and we could not pursue that group because Ladie’s escort was rather worn and I was not sure if there were more surprises.” His frowned darkly continuing. “When we got to the city Altenen already knew Lady Celebrian was coming and went out to meet her. I just hope he didn’t find this out before I did.” He made a mental note to shake out of the guards who betrayed this information. “I escorted the Ladies to Eamane and was on the way to report all of this to you when Altenen caught me. I absolutely had no spare minutes to come see you earlier.” ~Besides you probably would not be able to see me earlier anyway.~ He thought intensely scanning Elrond’s expression.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond looked at Glorfindel, his rage evaporating as the Marchwarden spoke of all that had come to pass while he was resting; he was still pretty upset that he had missed the arrival of both the expected parties and not at all pleased to have to go to them in private now and greet them as he should have already done.

"Very well", he said coolly, when Glorfindel was finished with his report; the marchwarden stood up, stoically awaiting orders. "My order to you now", Elond said,maliciously enjoying the nervous look in his friend's eyes and feeling tempted to send him on a patrol, "is to go and rest. I shall have to arrange a feast for all our dignified guests tonight...You will be needed there".Glorfindel bowed and turned to leave, but Elrond's voice stopped him. "I shall send Eamane to check on you as soon as I have a little talk with her, as well", he said irritably. "She is with the Ladies of Lothlorien", volunteered Glorfindel, before leaving. Elron watched him turn towards his chambers, before heading off to the healer's compound; courtesy commanded he greeted the ladies first and it would be a bood chance to speak to Eamane, too.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Mae Govannen ladies," Eamane said softly, bowing, before hurrying forward. "I am Eamane Silimaure, head healer here in Imladris."
She looked at the dark haired girl first, scanning her for injuries. "You aren't hurt, other than tiredness, which is easily remedied." Eamane nodded at the girl before stepping close to the blonde. Her blood-spattered clothes were worrying.
"Is this your blood or anothers?" Eamane asked, touching gentle fingers to the cloth, and looking into her eyes. The glassy look she met there made her frown.. "I need warm water, and blankets." Eamane said firmly to the standing girl. "Tell the elf in the hall. He will know where to get it."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel did not miss the worried look in the healer's face as she glanced over at Celebrian, something that made her distress just increase. "She is not injured", she told the healer, after telling the apprentice outside to fetch all that Eamane requested;when she came back in, Eamane was looking at Celebrian, trying to check for wounds; her cousin was no great help, still motionless and pale like the graceful marble figurines that adorned the room. " But I do think she is in shock...though I will not be the one to tell you how to do your work", she added hastily, trying to conceal her nervousness."Will..will she be all right?" she ventured to ask a while later, as the healer still lingered over Celebrian...

[Eomund]

Haldir and the lieutenant were talking so loudly that they didn'tsee nor hear Glorfindel until they bumped into eatch other for Glorfindel was obiviously sleepwalking and now wasn't the best time for that. "When will the feast occur?" asked Haldir but Glorfy just hmmphed and went on. Haldir and his companion now tried to search for the healing houses. Haldir saw an elf and when he started asking him a question, he noticed it was Altenen, still he asked: "where are the healing houses?" Altenen showed him the direction and they went on. They were about to reach the door when a high voice asked: "Who are you?" They turned around to see that that was Elrond. Haldir said: "We are of the escort that was to protect the Lady of Lorien, i'm Haldir and this is Echtan. Lady is here."

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane took the water and blankets when they appeared, keeping her eyes on the face of the girl. Gently she laid her down, and covered her with the blankets. Trying to calm the other girl, she spoke softly, stating what she was doing, and why she was doing it.
"I'm covering her, to keep her warm. And now elevating her feet as well. Sometimes shock is caused by fear making the blood rush to the rest of the body, rather than the head. If you would bathe her hands, as I do her face, we'll get the dirt and blood off, make her more comfortable as well."
Eamane smiled at the worried girl. "She'll be fine, I imagine the battle was a bit of a surprise. Especially if, as you say, she drew blood rather than lost it." She looked back at the girl.
'Now, which is the Princess? Both are too good for Lord Altenen... so I can't go by that,' she thought, looking up at the dark-haired girl again. "You can hold her hand you know. It's all right." She smiled kindly.

[Ladypain]

Everything felt like a bad dream or rather a nightmare. Celebrian was carried, walked, moved around very much like a doll. Her memory registered most of the events around her but she could hardly respond to them. She finally gave into shock and only later gentle voices and touches that freed her skin to breath as the dirt was getting washed off allowed Celebrian to somewhat shake down the stupor. She found Ithildiel’s hand in her own and lightly gripped it. The fog before her eyes began to clear and she curiously observed the room pushing herself to sit down. Her glance stopped on an elf maiden with hair she marveled as golden red. Celebrian understood she was the healer she overheard the blonde elf who escorted them spoke of. The presence of this woman was comforting and green eyes looked at her kindly. Celebrian was grateful and wanted to tell her this. “Thank you…” She tried to fetch a faint sound she heard few times. “Eamane.” She said with a soft smile.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"You are most welcome My Lady," Eamane said, smiling back. "I only wish you could have come into this fair city under better circumstances."
She offered the girl a glass of cool water, with an herb or two added in. "This may taste a bit unusual, but it will refresh you and bring everything back into focus. I imagine you are feeling a bit scattered."

Eamane smiled at the two girls. "I was put in charge of arranging proper quarters for you and your escort, so you can be assured that they are good ones." She waited for them to introduce themselves.

[Ladypain]

Finally dismissed, Glorfindel allowed himself to sluggishly walk down the corridor almost asleep. This caused him to bump into someone and he issued an apology that was hardly possible to take as such. Something else was said to him but Glorfindel didn’t care to listen and decided he will have his rest even if some balrog arises from darkness and burns the lands to crisp. The corridors stretched awfully long but he finally entered his room never bothering to lock it for he assumed only a fool would chance coming to do evil to a chief of security. Unlike Altenen and most other Lords Glorfindel didn’t care for a house filled with servants. He could do everything on his own and helpful insistences irritated him. The only thing he had is a maid who would come to clean his apartment every three days and preferably when he was not there. There was no one to distract him. Glorfindel removed heavy armor and weapons dumping them near the couch in a small living room. Normally he would tidy himself and put everything to its places before getting to his bedroom but he figured if he is to spend anymore time doing anything someone or something would show up and interrupt his peaceful intentions. Glorfindel plopped on the couch in utter pleasure than with a cringe pulled a knife sheath behind his back and also deposited it on the floor. In a few moments he was lost in deep sleep.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian obediently accepted the glass. The content refreshed her and she now fully understood the words directed at her. She noticed the questionable glace Eamane gave them and was about to name herself when two voices by the ward, one unknown and another belonged to Haldir captured her attention. She threw a curious look at the door and next moment was up on her feet at the sight of a dark haired elf that entered the ward. Celebrian rose bewildered with one hand holding edges of a blanket around her, in another hand she still held the glass, her mouth slightly opened. He was the one she saw in her mother’s mirror.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane heard Elrond and another elf speaking in the corridor. Eamane moved to the other side of the bed, between the door and her patient.
'I do hope he won't reprimand me in front of the guests,' she thought apprehensively. She was given no more time for worry, because upon Elrond's entrance, her patient took on a look of shock and stood, staring at him.
"My lady, you must remain in bed," Eamane said, putting a hand on the girl's shoulder. She was clinging to the blanket as if it were a lifeline and her blue eyes were wide as could be. Eamane took the empty glass from her hand and set it on a table, still keeping a hold on the girl. 'Perhaps she is frightened of yet another stranger come upon her.' Eamane thought. She spoke then to ease the girl's mind. "Lord Elrond of Rivendell has come to greet you my lady, as is proper. There is no need to fear. Please, my lady. You must rest." She tried to gently push the girl back into the bed.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond was stopped at the door of the healing ward, by a strange elf he had not seen before; his raiment revealed him to be one of Lothlorien, probably one of the escorts of the Lady Celebrian. He demanded to know if and when there would be a feast; Elrond glanced furiously over his shoulder, towards Lord Altenen, who he had seen talking to the stranger as he was approaching. "If he has opened his mouth about a feast or anything else that he has no businees talking about", he thought, in cold anger, "I'll flay him alive!" "There will probalby be a feast tonight", he addressed the Lorien guard, "if the Lady Celebrian and the Lady Ithldiel are up to it...I hear you were attacked on your way here...and you have arrived much earlier than expected", he added coolly, as the elf, intriducing himself as Haldir walked with him into the healers' ward; right outsied Celebrian's room, Elrond stopped him. "There are none but healers and their patients allowed from this point on", he said, his tone revealing plainly he would accept no argument."As you, Master Haldir, seem to be neither, I would suggest you go and secure your Ladies' quarters", He summoned a young healer he knew to be Eamane's apprentice to him and directed him to show Haldir to the chambers already prepared for the Lorien party. "You may take as many of my household guards as you require", he told Haldir. "And Lord Glorfindel will assist you later on; for now, he will need the aid of the healers, as well, I think". Haldir uttered a swift "Thank you", then bowed and left, following the healer. Elrond went into the room, after knocking.

Eamane was there, sure enough, and he cast her a stern glance; the young healer looked away swiftly, blushing a little. Then Elrond's eyes drifted to their guests: By the bed sat a beautiful, dark haired elf-maiden, clad in raiment not unlike the elf's he had encountered just outside; her blue eyes seemed even darker with concern right now, as she held the hand of the golden haired maiden that lay on the bed; it was on this maiden his gaze now stood. On seeing her, he knew he looked at Galadriel's daughter; long blond hair, like living gold-so much like her mother's- and her eyes...like a clear mountain pond...On seeing him ,the maiden sat up suddenly and stared at him, her expression a mask of pure shock; Eamane and Ithildiel-for he assumed, and quite correctly, the black haired beauty was Celeborn's niece, who was like a second daughter to the lord of Lorien-tried to soothe her, but she remained agitated, looking at Elrond as if she could not believe her own eyes.

The Lord of Rivendell felt significantly put off by this behaviour; it made him very uncomfortable. "Eamane", he addressed the healer sternly, trying to maintain a cool facade, "is something the matter with the Lady Celebrian?"Eamane looked at him nervously, busy with trying to get her patient to lie back down; Ithildiel stepped forward. "We are happy to make your acquaintance, my Lord Elrond", she said cordially. "I am afraid my kinswoman has had a rather...unpleasant experience on our way to your realm...She is still a bit weary and shocked after what happened to us". "You must be Lady Ithildiel", said Elrond,mustering all of his cordiality. " I have heard much of your beauty and manners from your uncle, my lady..." he added, kissing her hand gently. He glanced uneasily over to Celebrian. "Are you sure your cousin is merely...shocked? Perhaps there is something more the matter with her..." he said dryly, seeing the young elf still staring at him,unblinking.

[Eomund]

Haldir bowed and left to command the men to secure the doors of the hall and other exits, but he didn't want any Rivendell elf here for some case. Soldiers were armed lightly than to be able to go into battle, but for guards - too heavily. Haldier knew something was not right, hehoped to speak about the battle with Glorfindel as soon as he can. Even if he knew that walls and passes separated him from the enemy, he also knew it was coming closer, a hint and maybe Haldir have put a army before the doors.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithil was relieved to hear Eamane tell her that Celebrian would be OK...and even more so to hear her cousin speak. "You had me really worried, mellon nin", she said, sitting by her side and taking her hand that felt so cold right now, in her own.

"I thank you, to", she addressed Eamane, smiling at last. " I had been so worried for her; we have grown up together...she is the closest thing I have to a sister..."She paused, hearing voices in the corridor right outside, one of them definitely Haldir's. He was addressing someone cordially and the other's voice sounded deep and commanding; she noticed Eamane listening attentively, too, as she put aside all the medical supplies she had brought and had, fortunately proved unnecessary. Moments later, there was a knock on the door; Eamane bade the knocker to enter and a tal elf, dark- haired, with grey-blue eyes and clad in a dark blue robe entered, with the air of high authority all about him. Eamane looked at a him nervously; Ithil was about to ask who he was, when Celebrian sat up suddenly, shedding the warm blankets they had covered her with; her hands held the sheet tightly, so tightly her knuckles had turned white...but her face was even paler than the soft white sheet. She stared at the newcomer in complete shock; unwittingly, Ithil felt angry at him. As Eamane moved to soothe her cousin's fears, saying that the Lord of Rivendell had come to greet them, Ithil stepped forward; Lord Elrond seemed seriously disturbed at her cousin's behaviour and she felt she had to say something...at least, make a proper greeting, though she was usually quite bad at such things.

We are happy to make your acquaintance, my Lord Elrond", she said cordially. "I am afraid my kinswoman has had a rather...unpleasant experience on our way to your realm...She is still a bit weary and shocked after what happened to us".

Elrond was swift to reply, though apprently still unnerved by Celebrian's behaviour.
"You must be Lady Ithildiel", said Elrond,mustering all of his cordiality. " I have heard much of your beauty and manners from your uncle, my lady..." he added, kissing her hand gently. He glanced uneasily over to Celebrian. "Are you sure your cousin is merely...shocked? Perhaps there is something more the matter with her..." he said dryly, seeing the young elf still staring at him,unblinking.

Ithil lloked at him, irritated herself now:"What do you mean to say, My lord?" she asked coldly, casting him a darker glance. "There is nothing wrong with my cousin, mentally or physically, as you seem to be implying", she continued, her voice colder with every single syllable. "And you offend both her and myself by these words, uttered or simply thought of".

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond did not expect such a reaction; and he realised he had been more than a little offensive....which was not his intention in the first place. "I can't go off brekaing my nerves out on everyone else", he reprimanded himself silently, facing the gleaming blue eyes of the maiden before him; she was beautiful, he thought despite himself...and both she and her cousin, now lain to rest upon her pillows once more, thanks to Eamane's bedside manner, were....ethereal...he had never seen the likes of them before; inwardly, he smiled at Galadriel's cunning;surely, she would know his reaction to her daughter and niece, when she had planned their trip to his realm. He noticed the long knife in Ithildiel's belt for the first time, before speaking again: "I apologise, my lady", he said with an entirely disarming smile on his face, "I phrased my thought wrong, it seems, and I meant no offence...I merely worried for your kinswoman's condition...Will, she be al right, Lady Eamane?" he addressed the healer now. Eamane nodded. "Then I shall need a word with you, right now", Elrond continued. "My lady", he bowed slightly to Ithil as Eamane left the room."The Lady healer will be right back to tend you", Elrond said coolly, as he followed Eamane out.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel looked at Elrond intently...as he proceeded to apologise, although she knew he had not at all misphrased what he wanted to say...but kept silent, not willing to upset Celebrian further; moreover, she had to remember they had come on a diplomatic mission...She sighed; she was never any good at siplomacy, it always felt too two-faced for her liking. Eamane left, following Elrond, who tried his best to sound cool and pleasant as he left, but in vain.

Ithildiel went to check on Celebrian lying on her back,staring abstractedly at the ceiling. "Are yo all right? What happened?" she ventured to ask, checking her cousin's forehead; it was cool as ice and sweaty. "Why...Why did you react this way to Lord Elrond?"Celebrian did not answer and Ithil wished Eamane returned; the kind healer had already earned her trust with her soft manner and kindness. She took off her knife abandoning it in the windowseat and sat by Celebrian again; Eamane was right, she felt really tired, but could not abandon her cousin...she sat quiet, holding Celeb's-who was motionless again and paler still-hand in her own, waiting...

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond motioned Eamane inot an empty room, a few rooms away from Celebrian's chamber. The healer looked nervous and avoided eye contact. "Well?" Elrond asked. "What do you have to say for yourself?Putting me to sleep...nay, drugging me with sleeping herb like that", he said furiously. "Whoever told you to do that?" "As if I didn't know already", he thought to himself, eyeing her sternly, waiting for her to answer.

((OOC: Playing with myself lol...and I wrote a full page, I think... :blush: ))

[Ladypain]

The presence of Imladris’ Lord was mesmerizing. Celebrian tried to respond to the greeting but her mind blanked leaving her as a mere listener. She was gently but persuasively laid back down despite her weak protest. She could not see him anymore and concentrated on his voice exchanging phrases with Ithildiel. He certainly had a right to say what he did. She would feel odd if someone was staring at her instead of saying the appropriate greeting. Never the less she felt deeply hurt by a quick made remark. Soon she felt the room nearly empty as the healer followed to speak with the Lord. Celebrian opened her eyes upon an accidental pull on her hand and noticed her cousin. Ithildiel also looked tired but as usual would not surrender to over awing situation. Celebrian tried to smile at her cousin. “That was most embarrassing.” She said.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane looked up at him and frowned, hiding her nerves. "I was doing my job My Lord. You needed the rest, I made sure you got it. Neither of us knew of the early arrival of the guests, and there is nothing you could have done to prevent any of the events up to this point evenif you had not be asleep."
She smiled a bit. "Besides, you are looking much better."

"As for the ladies, they are both healthy." Her expression said she did not think that his remark had been appropriate either, but daren't say anything about it now. "Celebrian was speaking before you entered. She had been in shock before that. If I didn't know better I'd say you put her back into it. I don't know how, or why." Eamane frowned at the floor, trying to think of something to help the girl, if it wasn't fear, as she had supposed at first. She tried not to react to the stern expression on Elrond's face, though the student in her quailed nervously.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

“That was most embarrassing.” She said.

Ithil smiled, more relieved than she would admit, lest her cousin think her condition was really serious. "It was a bit, I'll have to confess; and the Lord of Rivendell is really imposing and I felt daunted against him, but his manners..." she made a grimace of dismay. "I can't believe what he said about you!" she exclaimed, irritated.Silence fell between them momentarily, Celebrian regaining some colour on her cheeks.

"And what happened to you when you saw him, anyway?" Ithil asked, sighing, a little wearily-tiredness was slowly creeping up on her, she felt it plainly."When you saw Lord Elrond...you acted as if you had seen a ghost..."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond listened to Eamane's nervous apology, maintaining a really stern glance; Eamane was progressively blushing and still avoided his gaze. Finally, he spoke:"I do not appreciate it when those I hold high in my trust plot behind my back, even when they do it with my best interest at heart", he said, his fury finally dissipating. "Had you not drugged me, I would have, at least, been able to greet our visitors and avoid ill-rumoured gossip and the intervention of others in my affairs". Both he and Eamane knew he was referring to Altenen. "Now, I fear I must entertain wicked impressions...not to mention that I have to apologise to the Lady Celebrian for my behaviour", he sighed. "I was a bit out of line back there...", he paused, realising he was thinging out loud, and changed the subject."In any case, you may return to your duties...tend the maidens-Lady Ithildiel also seems in dire need of rest; then take a look at Lord Glorfindel...he seemed really exhausted when I left him and I commanded him to rest;I want you to make sure he is doing that exactly", he said sternly. "I shall be to greet the Prince of Mirkwood...once I've done that, I'll expect you to report to me with news of both the ladies and my Marchwarden". Eamane nodded and elrond left her, hastily going outside again; Altenen still lingered by the doors. "Make yourself useful, Altenen". Elrond said abruptly and not waiting for the other to reply, as he passed by, "and summon Lady Daewen to my office...Tell her to await me there". Altenen left, obviously displeased at Elrond's manner.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian sat up gently pulling her cousin to sit by her thinking Ithildiel also could use a glass of water. She hoped the healer would return soon. “He was probably as dismayed as we were. Maybe the rudeness was covering the surprise. Our arrival was unexpected.” Celebrian stopped not believing in what she was saying. She addressed another question Ithildiel asked. “I probably did see a ghost.” She paused recreating an image from Lorien. “Ithil…Remember how we talked about what we saw in the mirror. It…was him. I think I told you before. The image from the mirror.”

[EamaneSilimaure]

...Then take a look at Glorfindel..."

Eamane's heart stopped, until he finished his sentence, saying that the Marchwarden was exhausted. Her heart beat again. She knew that, she'd been trying to get him to rest for three days, but he'd been running about after those ambassadors, trying to keep them from pestering Elrond, and there was no stopping him.

She saw Elrond speak to Lord Altenen, who was still in the corridor on her way back to the ladies rooms. 'What is he still doing here?' she wondered, frowning. Taking a deep breath and trying to keep her thoughts from traveling to the hopefully sleeping Glorfindel, she reentered the room.

She had obviously interrupted something, as both ladies looked up at her in surprise. 'Interesting...' she thought, smiling warmly at them both.

"If you both feel up to it, I'll take you to your quarters now, where you can rest in peace. You've one of Elrond's guest houses. I prepared it myself," she added.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithil looked at her cousin numbly for a while. "You mean to tell me", she finally asked, "that the face you saw in the mirror...was Lord Elrond?" Surprise was obvious inher voice, as was perplexement. "That certainly explains why you acted the way you did when you saw him...though his behaviour was inexcusable;I have never seen a more obnoxious elf!" she remarked, a little moodily."But...but are you positive...are you sure...?" she asked, moments later, her voice gravely serious.

Celebrian had no time to answer...Eamane returned and they both looked at her startled. The healer smiled uneasily, knowing she had interrupted something.Ithil returned a nervous smile, as the lady offered to escort them to their quarters. "We would love that, my lady", she said, concealing, once more, her more emotional than physical tiredness, as they followed Eamane to the guest house prepared for them.

[Ladypain]

“I could not have made a mistake." She cut off father explanation as Eamane came back. If you both feel up to it, I'll take you to your quarters now, where you can rest in peace. You've one of Elrond's guest houses. I prepared it myself. “We will be delighted to do so.” Answered Celebrian almost same time as Ithildiel. She forced herself upwards feeling she could walk if necessary. Celebrian still kept the blanket not willing to see the dried blood on her dress. First thing she planned was to take a bath and change the clothes. She unconciously reached out for her cousin’s hand and they followed the healer to their quaters.

[EamaneSilimaure]

As she escorted the ladies, Eamane tried to act the part of tour guide, at least through the small part of the city they were passing. "It is not far, the Healing Ward shares a wall with the edge of Lord Elrond's compound, as he is himself a healer. He taught me all I know." She added, trying to bring him a bit higher in their estimation. 'I can't apologize for him, but I can at least try to alter their opinions a bit,' she thought.

"Imladris is a place of knowledge and sanctuary for all who come here. I have even treated dwarves, though they often dislike turning to elves for help, they do so when they have no other choice. There are none here now however, as they have gotten word that we are troubled." Eamane stopped talking. She hadn't meant to bring up anything of the reason for their presence. In fact, as a healer, rather than a politician, she wasn't supposed to know the situation.

She lead them into the compound, where they encountered both Rivendell and Lothlorien guards. 'Drat those sentries. These girls are about to drop they're so tired.' Eamane frowned and said, with all the authority she could muster, "Let us pass. We go to the guest house." After some arguement, they were allowed through and into the house.

"I hope this will be satisfactory," Eamane said motioning to the furnishings. She smiled proudly. It was a fine house, second only to it's companion building on the opposite side of the compound, and Elrond's own of course.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian couldn’t help a light smile listening to the brief tour. The presence of this she-elf was comforting and judging by minor remarks the healer dropped she knew more than she spoke of. Celebrian found interest in mentioning of the Lord of whom the princess knew so little about as she examined the city with curiosity. The shock she experienced before nearly disappeared and she only wished to clean up to feel more relaxed. Celebrian only became troubled upon finding a dozen guards around her future estate and agreed to it with a sigh. Sending away everyone was not possible due to recent events. Hoping the security will be less strict in the future she entered their assigned house. It felt peaceful decorated by elegant furnishings. The air in the room was fresh with a scent of violets and some wild flowers. She approached the windows finding appreciation of a view. “Thank you Eamane. This house is lovely.” She softly took the healers hand. “You will come to visit us later? Wont you?” She was asking sincerely for she thought she might find the healers company pleasurable besides patient and healer relationship.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Of course I will My Lady," Eamane smiled. "It would be my pleasure." She squeezed the girl's hand in return. 'She seems to have regained her composure admirably,' Eamane thought. She reached into her bag.
"These are the herbs I put in your drink earlier. If you get some rest, and then drink this in cool water, it will continue to help you regain your energy."
Handing the packet to Celebrian, she smiled again. "Now I must go. I've another patient to tend." A cloud passed over her eyes, but they cleared quickly. Touching both girls on the shoulders, she smiled into their eyes. "Get some rest. You are safe in these walls. This is Lord Elrond's estate."
Then she turned and left them, closing the door behind her, brushing aside the aid of the irritating sentries as she descended the stairs.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian accurately placed the packet Eamane gave her into one of the drawers on the table. She was glad with the healers response. Celebrian slid across the room and locked the door blushing at the thought of someone intruding their room again. She encouragingly looked at her cousin. "Where do you supose our belonings are?" She casted down the blanket and slid into next room to examine the house.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane knocked softly on the door to Glorfindel’s quarters. When there was no response she slipped inside. With luck, he was sleeping. It was dim and she reached to light the lamp by the door. Taking a step into the room, her foot touched something. She smiled wryly looking around. It looked like he had simply shed his belongings on his way to his bed. What looked like the contents of an armory were strewn about, along with his cloak. She stepped carefully over the weapons and picked up the cloak. Following the trail, she found Glor sprawled on the couch, deep in dreams.

“He didn’t even make it to the bedroom,” She murmured, stepping closer. She stared at him for a long moment. When he slept she could look her fill of him, something denied her when he was awake. Even now, at rest, there were worry lines on his forehead. Shaking herself, Eamane took the cloak and hung it in the wardrobe. It smelled of him… like wind in the grass, and leaves in the sun. Breathing deeply she closed the wardrobe. She quietly gathered his weapons and laid them neatly on a table, as she wasn’t sure of their places. It would never do for him to wake and not know where things were. She set the dagger closest to him on the table by the couch. She knew he would want something near… Just in case.

She surveyed him from head to toe. He was filthy, two battles, hard riding, and dealing with ambassadors all morning had left their marks. But there was little she could do about it. Then she stared. “The man didn’t even take off his boots,“ she said frowning. Gently and carefully she pulled them from his feet.. “I hope you appreciate this when you wake up Marchwarden,” she whispered, setting the boots on the floor. Then taking a blanket from the foot of the bed, one she herself had made long ago in fact, and covered him with it. “Sleep well melindo…” she murmured barely audible. She touched his face with one gentle fingertip before walking back to the door.

[Aletheia]

Lady Daewen smoothed the dark saphire fabric of her gown. She had just recieved a summons from Elrond, Lord of Rivendell. She stalked ellegantly out of her quarters and into the courtyard, her dark chesnut hair glimmering like the fire that matched her mood. what could he possibly want?she thought, it must have something to do with the banquet
She was always short tempered, though she masked it well, but today her mood was black. The kidnapping she had planned had utterly failed, making her wrath brim over.I must collect myself before I meet with Elrond. It would not due to place any mistrust of me in his heart...

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Where do you supose our belonings are?" Celebrian asked, exploring the house given them, anxiously. Ithil smiled, opening the most obvious place-the wardrobe, that was a room in itself. All their dresses-2 whole trunks of them, that had made the Lorien guards frown many times along the journey, namely, every time they had to unload them,so as the horse carrying them could rest-had been hung up neatly in the lavender wardrobe; their bedrooms, too, were adjacent, sharing a door to the wardrobe andthere was even a small sitting room, with a bookcase of its own. "It seems Eamane went into a lot of trouble for us", Ithil commented warmly. "I like her, I feel we can trust her..." she continued; a smile from Celebrian told her her cousin felt the same way. "But for now...all I really want is to get out of these travelling clothes", she sighed. " A warm bath and some sleep...I hate to admit that I need that; we got very little rest on our way here, though...And..." she was going to mention the ambush, but stopped abruptly, not wanting to upset Celebrian now that she looked better.

"I had no idea you were versed in the way of the sword, mellon nin..."she said quietly, responding to the inquisitive glance from Celebrian."I'm glad for it, though..."she smiled approvingly. Celebrian beamed at her. Two maids came in; "Lady Eamane sends us to tend to you, my ladies", one of them said cordially; Ithil noticed she looked at both of them, apparently shocked with the way they looked; she exchanged a conspirative glance with Celebrian...they had certainly seen that look before, every time they went playing in the forest of Lorien. "We are thankful, ladies", Celebrian said kindly, as they went to fill the giant bath-tubs that stood in separate rooms next to each of the bed chambers.

After a long hot bath, Ithil felt more tired than before...or more relaxed, maybe. Dressed in a long white silk nightgown, her hair still wet, forming locks around her face and on her back, she went to check on Celebrian; her cousin was already asleep and looked really peaceful. "Sleep will do her good", she thought, weary herself and went into her own room and lay down, tucking herself warmly within the soft covers...putting a small dagger under her pillow, just in case; moments later, she was fast asleep.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond made his way to the Prince of Mirkwood's lodgings, deep in thought. He had already regretted his manner towards the Ladies of Lothlorien, but there was nothing for it now "I shall have to make an apology, if we can have that feast arranged tonight", he thought to himself, hoping Lady Daewen had got his message by now. She was the only one who could manage such a task on such short notice, he thought appreciatively, as he came to the guest house prepared for the elven prince. Legolas was in his rooms, exploring the house provided for him; he turned, upon hearing someone enter. Elrond thought he looked a lot like his father, but there was a kindness and sincerity in his clear eyes he had not seen in Thranduil for a very long time. They bowed to each other, then Elrond asked."So, young prince of Mirkwood, I trust you found everything to you liking?I hear you met with trouble on your way to us..."

[Charmander]

The young prince heard footsteps approaching, as he turned he knew immediately that this was Lord Elrond. Elrond asked."So, young prince of Mirkwood, I trust you found everything to you liking?I hear you met with trouble on your way to us..."

Legolas responded, 'You must be Lord Elrond - I am most pleased to make your acquaintance. I have found everything to my liking, the rumours of Imladris are true, I can think of no more peaceful a place.' His gaze fell past Lord Elrond and into the forest outside. He continued, 'I did indeed meet with some trouble, but was most grateful that your Marchwarden was able to assist. My quiver was empty and I hoped that hand to hand combat would not be required. I thank you for your generous hospitality.' At that last statement the young prince bowed again. He was anxious to be on better terms with Lord Elrond than he feared his father was.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond smiled courteously at the young prince of Mirkwood; he was definitely much more well-spoken and polite than his father. "I am glad you were caught up by my marchwarden", he said, "before any harm came to you; orcs have been sighted at our borders...and the guards now seem less than effective, I fear...If you are feeling up to it, there will be a small feast in the evening, in honour of all our guests; as you may have heard, the Princesses of Lothlorien are also with us right now, they arrived shortly after you did..." he paused, checking Legolas's reaction to the news; he did not mention anything of the ambush, unwilling to refer to that, until he knew more. "If it would please you, Prince Legolas, we would be honoured to have you", he added cordially, then looked at Legolas intently, awaiting his response.

[Charmander]

Legolas bowed to Lord Elrond and replied, 'I would be most honoured.'

Legolas tried to hide his surprise that the Princesses of Lothlorien had reached so quickly, he had hoped he would have had far more time with Lord Elrond - this would make his appointed task that much more difficult.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond registered the dismay and surprise in Prince Legolas's expression."I was right", he thought, "in thinking Thranduil sent his son to us with a purpose to sway me to side with him; yet, the prince...does not seem too happy with his role in this whole situation", he continued his musing, looking at the prince steadily. A servant knocked on the door and came in hastily. "My Lord", he addressed Elrond, bwing to the prince of Mirkwod, as well, "I am sorry to distrurb ou, but the Lady Daewen is expecting you in your office, as you requested and sent me to look for you..." Elrond sighed; he had almost forgotten about Daewen, with all that he had had to do, since he had woken fro mthe sleep Eamane had induced upon him...a sleep he found himself now grateful for. "Prince Legolas...it seems I have pressing matters to attend to", he addressed the young elf cordially. "We shall have a longer talk after tonight's feast, I hope".Legolas nodded, bowing cordially and Elrond left in a hurry, dismissing the servant. He needed to speak to Daewen...a feast had to be prepared and in a hurry.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian listened to her cousin excited. Imladris was beginning to prove the rumours as one of the most hospitable places in ME. Everything was of elegant craft and chosen with good taste. Although exclusively intrigued by an immense wardrobe, she found the bath far more appealing and as soon as it was filled Celebrian freed herself of dirty clothes climbing into warm water. She got a handful of rainbow sparkling bubbles and blew on them. Most landed back inside the tub, so large it was. The initially tense excitement began to shift into overly relaxed posture as her body was massaged and rubbed with lotions. Celebrian asked the maiden to bring her white lace nightgown. Dressed into it she kindly thanked the maiden dismissing her and went to her room. She cuddled between the soft, fresh sheets and her eyes closed sending princess to happy dreams.

( :blush: This post had to be made a little bit earlier)

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel was frowning for there was not a sight of the sea. He was looking for it but instead before him stretched stinking marches of wasteful lands. His feet aced having walked hundreds of miles, he barely could pull them out of the sludgy mud, distorting roots and plants kept tripping him until he got stuck. He was lost and nearly despaired. A warm breeze came than. It swirled around him bringing familiar scents of grasses and herbs, it whispered something he could not clearly understand but the tone was comforting. It removed him from the cold wastelands and relaxed into a sunny grassland smoothened by winds. He now was less tired and he thought he should trust the wind to lead him to the sea but it twirled around him once more and with a soft peck on his face came away. Glorfindel smiled reaching the spot where the touch was with his hand. He felt his heart lightened by a gentle spirit.

[Aletheia]

Lady Daewen drummed her fingers impatiently on an finely carved desk in Lord Elrond's office. She had sent a servent to find him, and was vexed at having to wait, yet her eyes bore the only outward sign of her anger, turning into deep pools of jet black.
Suddenly she heard footsteps approaching and turned, all anger swept from her face as she fell into the role of a devoted counsellor.
"My Lord," she said in a voice sweeter than honey, bowing elegantly, "You called for me, and I have come to do your bidding. How can I be of service to you? Mayhaps you have called on me to organize the feast?" But as she looked at him a strange light came into her eyes of veiled malice long concealed.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond walked in to his study hurriedly, and was greeted by Daewen, who bowed gracefully, as soon as she saw him enter.

"You called for me, and I have come to do your bidding. How can I be of service to you? Mayhaps you have called on me to organize the feast?"

"Daewen", he said, sitting behind his desk and motioning her to sit across from him, "I am sorry to have kept you waiting, I was quite busy. But I see news of the upcoming feast has already reached your ears...We have some very important people in Imladris and I thought that, given...the unusual conditions of their arrivals, a feast might be a good way to...put the rumours to rest and entertain our guests in the way customary in our land. The question is...can we arrange everything by tonight?What do you think?" he asked calmly, though a million things occupied his mind.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"I have a plan," Sarna told him with a smile. "Alcon will return to the king with news of our... failure." It irked her to say it, but the king must know the truth. "Riel and Kelumo go with him for proper treatment."

"You could use treatment yourself Captain," Toron said.

"I have already treated it, and as I told you, it's a mere scratch. You and I are going into Rivendell," Sarna said shifting her weight a bit.

"Into the city? But it is madness to try to get in and out again undetected, with a captured princess!" Toron exclaimed.

"That's why we are going in the light of day, and they will have full knowledge of out presence. We go as the lost escort to the Prince. Orcs separated us from him and our horses were lost. So we will arrive in the morning, after we are sure we cannot be tracked here." Sarna looked around. Riel slept, Kelumo fussed with his bandaged hand and Alcon stood guard. Nodding, she turned to Toron. "Make sure you have other clothes. They know us in these. It must be appropriate for an escort to the Prince."

She rose and walked to Alcon. "You fought well today," she said softly. "Better even than I, for they drew my blood, but not yours."

"You faced the Marchwarden of Lorien. I saw the marks on clothes." Alcon told her.

She smiled at his loyalty. "In the morning you, Riel and Kelumo are returning to Mirkwood. Do not protest," she added when it looked as though he might. "You will take news of our actions to the king. Toron and I are going into Rivendell. The others cannot come, as Kelumo's wound would be seen, and Riel's is the most severe of us three. We will continue the mission, the layout has merely been changed. Is this understood?"

"Yes Captain," he returned, though she could see disappointment in his eyes at being sent home.

"I trust you to get the others home safely," she told him, as if in confidence. As expected, the sharing of responsibility cleared his eyes and she smiled. Now to plan their approach on the city, to avoid the site of the ambush and clear suspicion from them. She returned to the tree and sitting, began the more delicate plans.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane left the quarters of the Marchwarden, smiling softly. She locked the door behind her out of habit, though she had found it unlocked. She began the walk back to Lord Elrond's estate. She was to report Glorfindel's status of 'definitely asleep' now that she had confirmed it. She sighed. It was too bad that it took orders and tricks to get those two to rest. They worked so hard all the time, and now with the threat of war hanging over their heads it was compounded tenfold. As cheif healer, she had treated many in the past few weeks for stress and exhaustion. "These politicians get themselves all in a lather about trivial things, and then they wonder why they need me to come put them to sleep!" She muttered.
She bumped into someone and flushing looked up. Lord Altenen glared at her before passing onward. 'Oh dear I hope he didn't hear me...' she thought nervously before continuing on her way. She thought of the Ladies of Lothlorien. 'That man is not good enough for the Princess. She is too kind and she must be too smart for him. She'd be bored out of her mind within an hour of their marriage. But who am I to tell the leaders their business. Just the one in charge of their health, body and mind,' Eamane thought, sighing. 'Both girls seem quite nice.' She smiled. 'I wouldn't mind being better acqainted with them both.'
She had reached the estate and nodded to the sentries, for they knew her well. She glanced over at the guest house where she had placed the Prince of Mirkwood. 'Perhaps I should stop by to welcome him,' she thought. 'After I speak with Elrond of course.' And she continued up the stairs.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel shifted in his sleep. His left hand stretched far out beyond the couch hit the edge of a table and slid past it discovering an armed knife sheath. He unconsciously wrapped his fingers around it and tucked it between the straight-backed of the couch and pillows close to the head. He shifted from lying on his back to the side and pulled blanket over his head at the same time bending his feet to hide them under the blanket which was made to cover shoulder to toe but not over the head. His knees however planted against the back of the couch preventing him from cuddling and he pulled the blanket back. A light pout expressed on his sleeping face as he struggled to fully wrap himself in a cozy object. Finally he settled with a blanket over his head, left hand resting over the knife sheath.

[Aletheia]

Daewen settled into the chair across from Elrond, trying to keep direct eye contact with him as she focused her piercing gaze.She waited as Elrond spoke,
I see news of the upcoming feast has already reached your ears...We have some very important people in Imladris and I thought that, given...the unusual conditions of their arrivals, a feast might be a good way to...put the rumours to rest and entertain our guests in the way customary in our land. The question is...can we arrange everything by tonight?What do you think?

"I was aware of our nobel guests and thought perhaps you would do such. A wise plan, my Lord, to put these rumours to rest," she spoke coolly, " It would be my pleasure to plan such an event, just as it would be my pleasure to put these visitors as ease....
You must not trouble yourself further with this, my Lord, for I can see that many things vie for your thoughts. Leave everything to me", she purred, and her eyes narrowed and grew dark, " I will plan everything."
Bowing low, daewen excused herself and steped out of the office.
fool she thought, already you have set the board in my favor
Smiling coyly to herself, she rounded a corner and found herself face to face with Rivendell's healer, Lady Eamane. Daewen clenched her fists beneath the dark velvety folds of her sleves and fiegned a smile.
"Lady Eamane, how good it is to see you. I had heard you were kept busy by our fine guests. I pray you have not not wearied yourself overmuch," she lied.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane took a quick step back at the sudden appearance of the Lady Daewen, counselor to Lord Elrond.
"Hello Lady Daewen. I am not wearied, but thank you for your concern. I merely arranged lodgings for the guests and welcomed them here. That is no hard task." Eamane replied, smiling at Daewen. She knew the woman had once had her eye on Glorfindel, because she watched carefully for such things, as she did everything that concerned him. 'I didn't expect to see her just now, though I suppose I should have. She can get people moving with preparations even faster than I can,' Eamane thought. She waited for a response. One never knew quite what to expect from Daewen.

[Aletheia]

"I am pleased to hear that," Daewen said, though in her heart smoldered a fire of malice,"I only feared that with your duties as healer it would be an extra strain on you to have the burden of such tasks laid upon you as well." And her eyes looked straight at Eamane as if she could see through her.
Daewen had percieved that this woman had some deepining intrest in Glorfindal, whom Daewen had once loved. He had spurned her attentions, casting her aside despite her beauty and cunning, and this had drawn the everlasting furry of Daewen on him and all those who loved him. Now, as she looked at Eamane, she felt a bitterness come upon her anew, for though Eamane looked much like herself in face and form, the healer had both the respect and regard of Glorfindal. Daewen held her head a bit higher in an effort to soothe her pride, and she addressed Eamane again, "What is it that calls you from your duties, friend, that you should leave your wards and seek the Lord Elrond, for that is where you are headed, is it not?"

[EamaneSilimaure]

"It is my duty as healer to take to heart the health of all who come within these borders, and that includes our guests," Eamane said, noting Daewen's sudden chin lift. "So it was no extra burden."
As she spoke, she studied the woman before her. In looks Daewen was a darker version of herself... and she had thought at times in temperment as well, though she would not voice such thoughts. Eamane responded cordially enough, but there was an unconcious stiffness to her words. The counselor worried her..
"I am to report on... a patient... to Lord Elrond," Eamane said, reluctant to bring up the Marchwarden in such company.

[Aletheia]

Daewen instanly noted Eamane's sudden reluctance, and it peaked her intreast.
"A patient," she said, "you would not by some chance be refering to the wounded marchwarden, would you? Why not send a servent on such a menial task as report giving!" Daewen scoffed. She wanted to trap Eamane with her words and trick her into revealing her feelings twords Glorfindal.
the trap is set, lady, now all you have left is to fall into it, she thought, but inwardly she wondered to herself if this woman, so alike her self in some ways, was not almost her match in poise. This thought disturbed her greatly, and suddenly she felt a cold wind blow against her, filling her with a sense of forbode. But she hardened her heart and willed herself to maintain control, for she was ever lustful of power, and weekness did not sit well with her...

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Someone in such a postion as the Marchwarden deserves the attention of the Chief Healer Lady Daewen, I would not dishonor him by sending a mere servant," Eamane said carefully. "The Marchwarden was not wounded, merely fatigued. You are not often on the outside of information my lady, I am surprised that it seems to be the case in this instance."
It was true that this was the case, but Eamane wondered if mayhap Daewen expected Glorfindel to be hurt at this point in time. 'No. She wouldn't dare... would she?' She looked at Daewen in yet another light. 'So many ways to see her... which is the right one?' she thought. At least she had one up on te counselor this time around.

[Aletheia]

"The Marchwarden was not wounded, merely fatigued. You are not often on the outside of information my lady, I am surprised that it seems to be the case in this instance."

Daewen's furry overflowed within her heart upon hearing Eamane's remark, yet she replied coolly, "I am happy to have been wrong. Certainly Lord Elrond will be pleased to hear such news!" and you also, though you have escaped this time.... "I cannot stay to have idle chats though, as I must prepare the feast for our guests. I will not keep you from your errand no longer, Lady healer. Namarie!" And she strode away into the darkness of the courtyard.
not wounded!!! Is Thalion such a incompetant fool that he cannot oblige me even in this!!! Daewen had expected Glorfindal to be wounded, and she was outraged that Eamane, of all people, should be the one to show her her mistake. I will kill Thalion when next I see him!
Daewen made her way throughout the corridors of Rivendell untill she made it to the room where Glorfindal was staying. She turned the handle cautiosly, not wanting to be heard by the sentrys posted nearby, and was startled to find the door locked shut. this is Eamane's doing! Curses on that interfering she-elf!
Daewen stalked away and made her way twords the kitchens of Rivendell, she had a feast to prepare and some 'tables' to set!

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Namarie Daewen," Eamane called after her. There had been a troubling flash of fiery green in her eyes before she had concealed it again in pleasantries. 'Of course Elrond would be glad to hear that his Marchwarden was not hurt, but he knew that already... why was she so surprised?' Eamane thought taking the few more steps to Elrond's door. It was partially open and it occured to her that he may have heard their exchange. 'We said nothing untoward... though there were certain undercurrents in that whole conversation that I would prefer he be aware of, I cannot in all conscience reveal my thoughts without proof.'
She knocked quietly and then stepped inside. Bowing she said, "I have come from the Marchwarden my lord," she smiled at Elrond. "He is well, and sleeping soundly."

[Eomund]

Soon after the army was placed, Haldir left the building to wander outside, he was thinking and thinking and thinking, about the attack, Altenen, Elrond, Prince of Mirkwood, and he was guessing someone was missing from this place, Imladris. He understood that Glorfindel was tired but he wished to speak with him. The question was in time. And soon after it Mirkwood was in his mind,it was about two to three times as large as Lorien and was the largest elven realm in middle earth. He calleed it the Empire: and at that same me he remembered - The emire is nothing - Impera de nessimo

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

You must not trouble yourself further with this, my Lord, for I can see that many things vie for your thoughts. Leave everything to me", she purred, and her eyes narrowed and grew dark, " I will plan everything."

"Very well, Daewen", Elrond said, concealing a feeling of...of uneasiness he felt coming from his advisor's side; there was something odd about Daewen today, or was he being suspicious of everyone and everything around him, in light of the things Glorfindel had told him and his own information? He had seen in his Marchwarden's mind that he believed one opf the household to be, if not a traitor, definitely not entirely devoted to himself and Rivendell. "Daewen has been here for some time now", he thought, trying to put his mind at ease, though vainly, "and is a faithful advisor; never has her advise led this land astray. "It will be as you deem fit; just make sure we have a proper feast ready by nightfall", he said at last. Daewen bowed and left, and Elrond remained more uneasy than before.

Right outside his study he heard Eamane's voice; she and Daewen were exchanging greetings, it seemed...but something, as ever when those 2 met, seemed tense. "Glorfindel", he thought, trying still to relax. HE was under the impression both ladies had a crush on his Marchwarden, though Eamane , for one, was always much too subtle to allow her feelings revealed; Daewen, on the other hand...she had flirted his Marchwarden persistently, only to lose all interest in him, when it became apparent he had no interest in her at all. Though he never knew for sure, Elrond always suspected there had been somewhat of an unpleasant scene between the two...ever since Daewen had seemed to almost ignore Glorfindel and never spoke to him, except on matters of state.

"A patient," she said, "you would not by some chance be refering to the wounded marchwarden, would you?

Daewen's comment caught his ear and attention. He peered out of his window, careful not to be seen. Daewen seemed more than a little surprised at Eamane's explanation that Glorfindel was no injured at all. "IF Altenen has been going around telling people Glorfindel is injured, I'll personally see to it that he is dipped in the Bruinen and left to drown!"Elrond thought angrily; Altenen always had a knack for spreading....false information, a trait that had often caused problems in Imladris.

Daewen left in a hurry and Eamane came int ohis office, walking as swiftly and gracefully as ever; Elrond was quick to step away from the window before she came in.

"I have come from the Marchwarden my lord," she smiled at Elrond. "He is well, and sleeping soundly."

"Good", Elrond gave her a soft smile, "Let him rest; I think he deserves it. I also trust the ladies are resting quietly, as well; the maids you had assigned to them informed me they are sleeping."Eamane nodded, saying they needed rest, as well. "So, would you like to tell me what has passed between you and Lady Daewen before leaving to take a look at the prince of Mirkwood?"Elrond asked now, feigning ignorance. " I saw the two of you talking; you did not seem happy with the exchange".

((OOC: Daewen is really creepy!If I wasn't playing Elrond, I'd be really worried!lol )

[Charmander]

After the departure of Lord Elrond, Legolas was left alone in his room. He looked down at himself, for the first time, and realised how he must have appeared to the Lord, still wearing the muddied clothes from his trip from home. He soon noticed that a bath had been drawn in the adjacent room. He was glad for quick service after such a journey and soon found himself deep in thought in a nice, warm bath.

The Lord of Imladris seemed reasonable enough. He was polite and courteous, especially when taken into account that he had been inundated with guests over the last few hours - all of whom needed his attention. He greatly wished to see the Princesses of Lothlorien, he had met the Lady Galadriel when he was much younger and was awed by her beauty. He stopped his thoughts there, realising that should his father ever learn he did not foster some malcontent for Lothlorien he would be most dipleased. Legolas did not wish to be at odds with his father, he still had much to learn about ruling an entire realm. He did not look forward to doing so alone, but had yet to meet any that would complete what was obviously missing.

It had grown darker since his arrival, as he got out of the bath he pulled on warm robes of a lavender hue and went out onto the balcony to think more on all his tasks that were laid before him. The young prince was greatly wearied, but felt claustrophobic indoors - some peace and quiet outdoors would be most beneficial.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"It was nothing of consequence my lord. Mere pleasantries. She inquired into my health, hoping I was not overly wearied by my guest tending today," Eamane said. "The Lady Daewen seemed to think that the Marchwarden was wounded. He was not, and she seemed surprised at that."

'There. I've told him all I safely can... I've no proof for anything else, only a healer's suspicions.' she thought smiling just a bit. "As for not seeming happy with the exchange," Eamane added, "As you know my lord, one is never sure after a meeting with the Lady if they came out ahead or behind, or if they even came out at all. That's why she makes such a good diplomat." She smiled at him. "Now I would like to get to the Prince before too much longer. I've rounds to make and Daewen tells me there will be a feast, for which I must make my own preparations. If you will excuse me," Eamane said, bowing and turning to leave the office.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Actually", Elrond said calmly, stopping Eamne in her tracks, " I think I will not excuse you just yet, Eamane...I think there is more than you say to me; and Lady Daewen has been acting...more secretively than ever these paste few months. If I did not know any better, I would swear you were all conspiring against me."

He noticed the uneasiness in Eamane's face-an uneasiness that only confirmed his suspicions-and manged a really crafty smile. "But all that shallbe dealt with after the feast, I think; for the time being, I have a personal favour to ask of you".

[EamaneSilimaure]

"If I did not know any better, I would swear you were all conspiring against me."

Eamane had turned back and as he said this, she tried to hide her shock. She had not meant to sound like... that. She just didn't have clear proof of... well anything really. Clearing her face, and her whirling thoughts, Eamane replied, " A favor my lord? How may I help?"

'Curse that she-elf for unsettling me this much... and am I really that bad at hiding things? Even if they are just thoughts? Elbereth help me...' she thought, trying to calm herself.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond continues smiling, his face unreadable; however Eamane tried to hide it, he knew his comment has struck home. He could sense something was amiss with all the current situation: the war, the ambassadors, the traitor within his own realm; his awareness of it all was one of the blessings-or curse, as another might call it- of the ring that even now hid upon his finger, unseen and unfelt by all but himself. After the feat, much would have to be cleared up, he decided and said, noticing Eamane turn pale, as she waited for him to reply.

"I would like you to keep an eye on Lord Glorfindel tonight", he said calmly. "I worry for his health greatly...he had not slept in 3 days, I believe, and I would appreciate my chief healer...and one of his dearest friends"-hepurposely stressed dearest, knowing full well how high in his reagard his Marchwareden kept Eamane; often he wondered how it was Glorfindel ahd neve noticed how deep the young healer's feelings for him really ran..."I would apprecaite it if you looked out for him tonight...and order him back to bed on the first sign of fatigue; he is invaluable to the realm...and he needs to remain in top shape, even if that has to be done against his will", he jested, seeing Eamane flush. "Well, will you be able to do this?" he asked lightly.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"...one of his dearest friends..."

Eamane's heart gave a thud... but inwardly she sighed. It would always be so. Now she was being asked to watch over the Marchwarden... a task she took gladly, for she would have done so anyway, but more secretly. Now,Elrond had all but given her permission to force him to his bed if she deemed it necessary. As she had the lord himself earlier in the day. She flushed, remembering her trickery.

"Well, will you be able to do this?"

"Of course my lord," Eamane answered, nodding. "He shall be well taken care of, though he will notice and may protest, I protest better." She smiled.

'I will do this, and if my heart can stand to see him in his finery and not fall at his feet... we will see what happens...' she thought.

[Ladypain]

Soft edge of the blanket rubbed against his nose and caused him to sneeze waking him. Glorfindel sat up on the couch lazily pulling the blanket off his head. The room was a mess, so was he. His waking mind recreated his path to the couch before he fell asleep. He rose trying not to trip over the items he dropped near the couch but they were not there. Glorfindel carefully examined the room understanding someone came in while he was sleeping and changed the order. The weapons and armour were laid on the table and his cloak was hanged in the closet. Cleaning up the room was only possible of a woman and the only one he could think of doing so was Eamane. He smiled thinking Elrond could have send her to check on him although somewhat regretful he missed her coming. His foot moved off the rug and touched the cold floor. He pulled it back just noticing his boots were taken off. He was still holding the blanket. ~An act of courage.~ He called it gratefully marvelling how anyone could take shoes off of someone as filthy as he was. He accurately folded the blanket frowning at the stain on it. He valued items Eamane gave him and didn’t want the ruined. Glorfindel dragged the dirty bloodstained clothes in the bathroom dumping them into a pile. He imagined the maid would be most upset with enormous work he just gave her cleaning those up. The water was nearly cold but it didn’t matter. He energetically scrubbed all dirt off.

His mind became clearer with the cool shower turning to business. The ambush bothered him. Direct investigation was not fully legitimate for the incident occurred outside Imladris borders. He had to do it by himself and preferably in secret, not from Elrond but Glorfindel didn’t want anyone else finding out. Before going though he had to gather as much as he could about the ambush. Haldir could provide valuable insight on their attackers. Glorfindel was positive that Lorien chief of defences had a keen sight and noticed details others would not think of. Ignoring rather vast abyss in his stomach Marchwarden decided to immediately speak with Haldir. He remembered Elrond mentioning a party this evening. Another obstacle to investigation became this feast he had to attend. The appeal was getting something to eat before launching on another trip that could last all night. Glorfindel pondered who might benefit from killing Lady Celebrian or capturing her. Another possibility was some Lorien private affair which he had no business investigating.

Satisfied with the refreshed state Glorfindel dressed into a formal dark grey outfit with few intricate silver ornaments. It was of elegant making and well fitted to his figure. The outfit could have passed as a party dress with an addition of white collar and cuffs although it was also most perfect for sneaking in the darkness. Ready to go he pushed the door and found it locked. Slightly grumbling he released the lock and than closed the door again. Although he almost never locked the rooms when he was inside he wouldn’t leave the door open when he was away. Marchwarden departed in search of his colleague.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I will do this, and if my heart can stand to see him in his finery and not fall at his feet... we will see what happens...'

Eamane's last thought echoed in Elrond's mind, making him doubt his decision to ask this favour of the maiden, who was now taking her leave. He wondered, and not for the first time, if he should...casually mention to Glorfindel-rather, not mention openly, it would be quite inappropriate, but he could hint to him- of Eamane's feelings; he thought they might not be without response...but then again, he might be mistaken...

"And such a confession is not mine to make..." he thought now, as he ordered his servant to draw up a bath for him; soon, he would have to prepare for the feast, he thought; somehow, all the energy he had gained from his much needed sleep, seemed drained now...he felt exhausted again, his mind weary with thought and bearing his body down, as well.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane left Elrond's study, thoughtful. An entire evening in Glorfindel's company, when he would be at his most charming. It would be heaven and hell all at once. Of course, If all else failed, she could pull out her very proper healer persona, and rely on that to get her heart through in one piece. Up to now she had managed to avoid such situations, since she first realised her feelings and nearly made a fool of herself in front of the party of Men who had come for counsel. So long ago now... so long she had loved him.
Eamane looked up suddenly, confused at her surroundings. 'So deep in thought was I that I've gone in the wrong direction. I was supposed to be heading to the house of the Mirkwood Prince, but it seems my thoughts led my feet to these guests instead.' Shaking her head, she started to climb to the door anyway. 'Might as well check on the ladies. Their light is on, so they are awake, and they will want to begin preparations for the feast soon.' She waved away the sentries who came to investigate her presence and knocked softly on the door.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian knew she was almost awake but continued to muse the room through the grid of her eyelashes. It was one of those moments between the dreams and awakening that she thought everyone deserved to have. A soft knock at the door and disturbed voices interrupted her play and she threw a velvety robe over her nightgown rushing to the door. To her delight she saw Eamane and dismissing the guards with a gesture she motioned the healer into the house. “Good afternoon, or maybe good evening? Please come in. I can hardly tell so long I have slept.” Noting the healer is somewhat tired she motioned Eamane into an armchair. “Would you like something to drink?” She smiled shyly. “Perhaps we could use those herbs you have given us?” Celebrian rushed to the table on the way peeking into her cousin’s room and softly closed the door shut before pulling out the packet Eamane had given them before. “I am sorry I very much have forgotten what exactly are these for?”

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane smiled at the cheerful greeting and sat gratefully in the chair Celebrian offered. She had not sat down in hours. But she was used to that. An offered chair was always welcomed however. At the girl's question she laughed. "The herbs, when added to cool water make it more refreshing, and they aid in reenergizing you after a long day. Tis different kinds of mint, among other things. They clear your head if you lose focus as well, which is why I gave them to you earlier today," she explained. "Which reminds me, how are you feeling after your nap?" Eamane smiled kindly. She took the packet from Celebrian and emptied the contents into the pitcher of water on the table. She then poured out a glass of the fragrant liquid for each of them.
"There we are," she added, taking a sip. "Much better."

[Ladypain]

“I feel much better. The Imladris is charming and feels very welcoming although I initially missed to see what it was like outside the city.” She lightly frowned at the memory and made a small sip of the water. “The maids you have send were most kind and helpful. I would love to see more of Rivendell and Ithildiel will probably also wish to do so as soon as we are fully awake. You are up on your feet again?” She now took Eamane to a couch and sat down with the healer smiling.”

[EamaneSilimaure]

"I'm very glad that you are feeling better my lady. But I think a full tour of the city will have to wait," Eamane said with a smile. "There is to be a feast this evening in honor of your arrival, as well as that of the Mirkwood prince."
Who she had yet to meet. Something that would haveto be remedied shortly.

[Ladypain]

“How exciting.” Said Celebrian although slightly worried on the short notice. She didn’t know if they would prepare in time to hide all evidence of the past weariness. “It would allow a more proper introduction with the Prince and well as with the Lord Elrond. Our arrival was most untimely and I have not spoken to him, instead stared quiet rudely.” She lightly blushed. “He must have being offended.” She paused slightly nervous. “Eamane, I only heard very general information about the Lord. If you could…” She wasn’t sure what she wanted to know and struggled to express it. “What is he like?”

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Lord Elrond was not offended my lady, only worried for your health," Eamane assured her, wondering at the blush that came to Celebrian's cheeks. "As for what he is like..." She paused to choose her words carefully. "He is most kind, and take his duties very seriously. He is a healer as well, and taught me all I know." She smiled in memory. "He's kept this city a place of peace and sanctuary for a very long time."

[Ladypain]

Celebrian avidly listened to Eamane. Similar phrases she heard before but she was pleased to hear them from someone who knew the Lord closer. “This very much confirms what I heard.” She said. Last words hurt her as she realised her realm is partially responsible for what disturbs the peace or what the healer described as the sanctuary and she was listed among those who would do it. She wondered why someone is willing to destroy the peace of others to keep themselves safer and her heart aced to think it was her father who was willing to do it.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane smiled and touched Celebrian's hand, offering a little comfort. "Imladris is also a place of knowledge my lady. If an agreement can be reached, it will be reached here," Eamane said softly. Then knowing she had likely spoken beyond her role, she released the girl's hand and stood.

"I truly feel we will be friends. Now, thank you for the chat, and the drink. Make sure Lady Ithildiel drinks some of the water as well. You'll both need it, to ready yourselves for the feast. I must go meet the Mirkwood Prince and then make my own preparations." She walked with Celebrian to the door. The girl was quiet now thinking over what she had said. Eamane turned to her and put a hand on each of her shoulders. "Relax my lady. Worry not for politics tonight. It is a welcome feast, in your honor, and for your enjoyment," she smiled. "I will see you there." She smiled once more before leaving the guest house to cross the estate to the other.

Now to make a favorable impression on the Prince of Mirkwood, who had been left to his own devices all day long. 'I hope he is not angry for the neglect.' Eamane thought as she hurried through the dim lights of the lanterns scattered around the grounds of Elrond's estate. She climbed to the door. There were fewer sentries here. In fact, she saw none. She knocked softly on the door and waited.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel woke up...or rather half did so, but stayed curled up in her blankets, unwilling to leave their warmth; the light in the room had grown dim. "It must be almost evening", she thought, not sure if she was surprised or just didn't care."I've been asleep for quite some time, it would seem. I wonder if Celebrian is awake yet".

As she became more aware of the room around her-sleep leaving her despite herself-she thought she heard voices in the next room...Celebrian's chamber. "Looks like our kind healer has come to visit us, once again", she thought, as she fumbled out of the coverlets, at last. "I really hope we have not put her into too much trouble...having to take care of us like that, when I would bet many here had greater need of her skills". She found a soft heavy silk robe neatly spread out upon a chest at thefeet of her bed and put it on, shivering a little after the warmth of the bed she had just left. She was going to open Celebrian's door and greet the healer, as well, but as she did so, thd external door of their guest house was closing and she heard Celeb bid Eamane goodbye. She walked in to her cousin's room; Celeb came in moments later, smiling cheerfully. "Well, it seems I missed the Lady Eamane's visit", Ithil said, not concealing her disappointment at the fact; she ahd really liked the healer and had been hoping to talk to her again; she felt that, when Eamane had escorted them here, both herself and Celebrian had been too weary and unwilling to address the healer properly, despite the fact she had instantly earned the trust of both.

[Ladypain]

“You slept so peacefully I didn’t want you disturbed.” Said Celebrian with a light worry in her tone. “We will definitely see Eamane today.” Her eyes lit with excitement. “She told me a feast would be held tonight because a lot of new guests arrived.” She cast a look at the late evening outside. “I just hope we have enough time to prepare before it begins. Oh, Ithil I really want to make a better impression than our recent arrival.” She lightly hoped to her feet crossing the rooms and asked for warm water returning before Ithildiel could respond. Than nearly laughed observing her cousins still somewhat sleepy expression. “I know what you need!” She poured a glass of water and mixed some herbs in similar fashion as the healer has done earlier. “They are most refreshing. It is what Eamane gave us.”

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel took the glass and held it for a while, not too quick to drink; she was never too mbig a fan of herbs and potions; she had to be really ill to allow healers to give her such drinks. "What is this mix supposed to do?" she asked her cousin, a little uneasy; she smelled the crisp scent of mint in her cup and it felt refreshing enough, but she did not decide to drink.

"And...what did Eamane tell you? Did you say something about a feast?" she asked, sitting on the couch Eamane had sat previously, cup by her side; she pushed a few locks of hair away from her eyes; she was still a little sleepy. "Tonight? Do you really think there is enough time to prepare?" She looked at the sky outside the window. Dusk was already coming.

[Ladypain]

“She did not say that much only that Lord Elrond will be there and Mirkwood Prince also arrived. Eamane didn’t provide too many details. I suppose it will be magnificent. We will try not to be late, however if you remain so sleepy we will never make it on time.” Lightly laughed Celebrian. “Do not be so suspicious both Eamane and I drank this mixture and it is most refreshing.” She set the glass firmly into her cousin’s hand. “Drink.” She demanded.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel looked at her cousin, standing across from her, smiling still cheerfully.

"Fine", she said, smiling herself, "I'll drink; but you do know how much I hate these kinds of things, especially when I don't feel ill at all". She emptied her cup quickly, feeling a little refreshed as she did so...and definitely more awake.

In fact, she was awake enough right now, to notice Celebrian was...exhilarated, her cheeks flushed with excitement. "I see you woke up in a really good mood", she remarked, her own spirits rising, as well.She got up in one swift motion, going to take a look at their closet.

"Is it just the prospect of the upcoming feast", she asked, fumbling around the dresses, seeking two that would be appropriate for the event mentioned," that is behind this...unexpected but happy change?And...did Eamane speak at all about..." she hesitated..."your potential future husband?" She chose her words carefully; somehow, she could not picture Celebrian beside that pompous creature called Lord Altenen.

[Ladypain]

As he proceeded to find Haldir, Glorfindel saw Beliwedat lurking among the guests. Avoiding various obstacles appearing between him and quickly disappearing spy required much agility however he soon caught up to the elf. “ Good evening.” Said Glorfindel to him. Beliwedat immediately turned to his chief with respectful attention. “I would like you to do a small favour for me. Thirty minutes after the party begins please send a sentry for me, saying that you need to see me urgently.” Beliwedat nodded before disappearing in the crowd. Glorfindel did not need to explain anything to the elf as to why he wished to do what he did. Beliwedat trusted if his chief had a good reason for all orders and if necessary would come up with believable story if anyone were to try finding out why Glorfindel was summoned away from the feast. The elf proved his loyalty on all occasions and satisfied Marchwarden proceeded to find Haldir.

Glorfindel found Lorien Marchwarden conversing with other sentries by the guesthouses close to Lady Celebrian’s quarters. He recognizably nodded to the group. “Lord Haldir may I have a private word with you?”

[Eomund]

"Yes, in a moment, Lord, i have to check few things out first." and Haldir whispered something to his friend who left the building.

"Why did you want to speak?

[Ladypain]

Celebrian stumbled in her enthusiasm. “I never asked her about Lord Altenen.” She confessed. “I will probably get to know him better during the party. The first impressions are often inaccurate.” At least she hoped hers were. “Lord Celeborn wouldn’t chose to marry me off to anyone awful.” She sometimes called her father in the formal titles because her parents were never particularly affectionate, at least did not show it too often. Overall she was even more alienated by their recent decisions and behaviour. Celebrian ran her hands through the wardrobe choosing several dresses she liked the most and spread them out on her bed. “Which one should I wear?”

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel shot a brief evaluating look at Haldir. He judged Lorien chief of defences was not the type who would waste time circling around the issue. “What can you tell me about the ambush?” He inquired directly. If Lorien chief were to answer he would proceed with investigation. If not, it was probably some private business to Lorien and he would stay out of it.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel decided to discard the matter...for now; she did not believe Lord Celeborn would marry her cousin to someone...unseemly, either, but she had disliked Altenen on the first glance...and she did not think anything would change her mind of him;he felt...sneaky and sly and oddly wicked. And the look he ahd given the both of them when he had seen them was almost...orcish, though she would rather be able not to think this way of her future...cousin-in-law, if that came to pass.

And cElebrian's cheeriness could not be countered. Ithil was as excited about thisfeast as her cousin and more than willing to put aside all grim thought for tonight. She looked at all the dresses spread out on the bed. "Hm...If only I could choose!", she smiled. "Some of these gowns are my favourite, as well!!And I can't decide what to wear, either!" she complained, laughing.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian pointed to two dresses. One was satin in royal blue with sapphires. She preferred lighter colours but it was most beautiful and favourably highlighted blue eyes. Another dress was in yellow golden colours. It consisted of a silky white layer and another transparent gold thrown over it. This robe most beautifully matched with pearls. “How about these two? Which one would you like?” She beamed.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithil looked at the gowns for a while; they were 2 of the most formal dresses they'd brought along and she thought she couldn't really decide...not fast anyway. "I think I would choose the blue one for myself", she finally said, smiling a naughty smile."Gold is your colour, mellon nin...I think you'll look absolutely dazzling in the golden gown...more dazzling than the very sun, if it would shine in this hour still. What do you think?"

[Ladypain]

Celebrian laughed concealing a blush at her cousin’s remark. “At times I wish we can compete with the skies in their magnificence but it is a wilful thinking on my behalf. We shall be with the colours that suit us the best and royal blue was always yours.” She looked into Ithildiels eyes very much blue like her own but just a shade darker smiling at the beauty. Than she picked up golden dress and disappeared in the change room emerging some time later and spinning gracefully before a large mirror. She tried to adjust the two unfolding mirror halves from the third main one to take a look at her back.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithil smiled at her cousin's comment. "I always thought you looked positively radiant in golden colours", she laughed. "Simply... brilliant, as if made of light yourself", she continued, making Celebrian smile, a little abashed.

She too retreated into her bedroom and emerged moments later, dressed in the blue gown;Celebrian was trying to see her full reflection in the full body mirror next to the wardrobe room when Ithil returned, all dressed up. "As I was saying...exquisite!" said Ithil appreciatively, pausing to gaze at her cousin; "How do I look?" she asked shyly.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian looked at her cousin admirably. “Oh mellon nin, you are most beautiful. Alright I take my words back about not being able to compete with the skies.” She laughed now that attention was taken off her. “What would you like to do with your hair? You could add something and maybe slightly pull them back from the neck.” She slid back into the wardrobe and after a while came out with a bow same colour as the dress with a small sapphire in the middle. “What would I do with my hair? Should I just leave them the way they are and just wear a tiara?” She picked up a brush and combed her long hair.

[Charmander]

That bath had been most relieving for the Prince. Since his departure from Mirkwwod he had an abundant amount of time to think of his fathers orders and the importance his impression on Lord Elrond would be for Mirkwood. Lord Elrond seemed much more even-tempered than his father, he was not sure how the Lord would react to his message from his father. He thought the message itself was to win over the Elrond, a most vague notion, giving the Prince great leeway in achieving this goal. His father had also mentioned a union amongst Lothlorien and Rivendale - he must find out more information - had not Lord Elrond mentioned a feast? He would perhaps find more answers to his questions and a solution to Elrond's favour.

A soft rap on the door shock him from his thoughts. He walked back through the living area of his chambers, immediately missing the cool air on his face. He unlocked the door and half expected to see Lord Elrond.

[Eomund]

@ I say that we were szambusxhed unknown, en emies, there were about 5/6 me3n `and the were definetly elves, i know what i hit. We injured two or tghree of them, including captain....@

((sorry, i sam at me mothers copm zsand i cant write hrere))

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Hello your Highness. I am Eamane Silimaure, chief healer of Imladris. I came to see that you are well, and comfortable in your quarters," Eamane said smiling kindly. "To have come so far alone, and then to meet orcs at the end of the journey must have been most exhausting." He stepped aside to allow her entry. She smiled again. "I won't stay long. I also wanted to remind you of the welcoming feast to be held this evening, in your honor, as well as that of the Ladies of Lothlorien."

He was not what she expected. From her experiences with the other Mirkwood ambassadors, she had thought he would be more...fierce-looking and obnoxious. Instead, he had the second bluest eyes she'd ever seen. They were blinking at her quite astonished. "You did know about the feast didn't you? Someone told you... didn't they?" Eamane asked, suddenly struck by the thought that she was to have told the prince about the feast near an hour ago, and instead she had gone and chatted with the other guests.

[Charmander]

To his astonishment it was not Lord Elrond. A woman entered his quarters and said, 'Hello your Highness. I am Eamane Silimaure, chief healer of Imladris. I came to see that you are well, and comfortable in your quarters. To have come so far alone, and then to meet orcs at the end of the journey must have been most exhausting. I won't stay long. I also wanted to remind you of the welcoming feast to be held this evening, in your honor, as well as that of the Ladies of Lothlorien. You did know about the feast didn't you? Someone told you... didn't they?'

Legolas was astonished by how quickly this woman spoke, he was a bit taken aback and at a loss for words. He quickly collected himself, smiled and replied, 'My lady, Lord Elrond did inform me of the feast when he welcomed me some time ago. Thank you for your concern - I am wearied from the long journey and perhaps should have waited for an escort before leaving Mirkwood.' He laughed a little as he said those last words, knowing full well that it would have saved everyone involved a great deal of time and effort had he taken the time to wait for an escort.

The lady healer smiled at this remark and Legolas continued, 'You say the Ladies of Lothlorien have arrived, I hope they found their trip here more safe than my own?'

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel took interest in the last remark. “Were there any markings to indicate the rank or did it come through other deduction? Could you describe them to me, especially their captain? How seriously was the injury?” Glorfindel wondered why Haldir said captain rather than leader. The difference in two words clearly distinguished between some random bandits to more or less professional group. If the attackers were fully disguised he could still find out about their build, such as height.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane's smile fell away. "Unfortunately, they were ambushed just outside our borders, and not by orcs," she paused as it seemed to her that he paled. He asked after them, concern evident in his voice.
"Both ladies are safe and well," she assured him. "Now it has been a trying day for all of you." She glanced out at the stars and then back at the Prince. "Time now for some enjoyment. So ready yourself for the feast, and I will see you there. Forgive me for running off like this, but I've my own preparations to make." She smiled at him again. "Welcome to Rivendell Legolas of Mirkwood. Namarie." She turned and left the guest house.

As she hurried through Elrond's Estate she passed his sentries, as well as one or two of the Lothlorien guards. Soon however, she was in the city proper, and headed for her own apartments. The prince's reaction to her mention of the attack had certainly been interesting. 'Perhaps he merely thinks that his people will be blamed for it, considering current affairs.' she paused in her thoughts, smiling at a mother and child who were walking home as well. 'Or perhaps they are at fault and he worries for them. Bah! I am no good at intrigues!' She unlocked the door to her home and entered, now muttering, "Give me a sword wound, or a sleeping sickness and I can handle it admirably, and swiftly. But mysteries are beyond me. I work in truths. The body does not lie." She put down her bag, for the first time that day. 'I'll have to replenish it tomorrow from the stores.' she thought absently, walking to the wardrobe and surveying her dresses. "What to wear..."

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna left Alcon and moved to crouch next to Toron. “They know their jobs, now I’ll tell you yours.,” she said softly. “We are going into Rivendell as advisors to the Prince. We would have arrived earlier, but we were attacked by orcs and our horses were lost..”

“But the Prince may not go along with this,” Toron said. “He know no one was sent with him.”

“Yes, but he doesn’t know if anyone was sent after him. As we were. The attack also allows us to shed any suspicion about my wound, should it be noticed. No one saw our faces, and as long as I leave my hair down, I won’t be recognized,” Sarna said dryly.

“Do we go armed?” Toron asked.

“Of course,” she said. “Everyone knows it is madness to travel Mirkwood unarmed. However, we cannot act as a Captain and Lieutenant in the army for this. We are mere advisors to the prince, with some skills in arms. That is all. Until we get news from the king as to what he wants us to do, we lay low, but inside the city is safer than here. By midmorning, they’ll be looking for us.” Sarna smiled. “So we’ll walk right through their front door.”

“Hide in plain sight,” Toron said with a fierce smile.

“I knew there was a reason I picked you for this job mellon nin,” Sarna squeezed his shoulder. “Now rest. I’ll take the next watch.”

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel took the bow, a little too slowly. "Actually..." she said, a smile of crafty amusement upon her lips, " I think I may have something better..."

Leaving Celebrian a little astonished by her tone, she went into her room and tooka little bundle of black velvet from her saddlebags, that no one had gone through; she returned to Celebrian. "Your mother gave these to me, before we left; she said they would be handy...I think she kenw some such occasion would occur". Unfolding the cloth carefully, she produced 2 tiaras, sparkling in the soft candlelight that illuminated the room; both intricately carved; one in gold, skillfully made in the shape of a swan with its wings outstretched and set with amber stones, the other in the shape of a vine, with tiny leaves and flowers blooming all around it, madeof mithril and set with blue saphires; both were dazzling,and Celebrian stared at them, in awe. "Well", Ithil, smiled again, "What do you think?"

[Ladypain]

Celebrian looked at the tiaras for a while. “You don’t suppose we might be overdressed? We don’t know what kind of party this will be.” She licked her lips a little nervously hoping it was in fact the type of party where you wear the most formal outfits. “Both of these match the dresses so well.” A light sparkle lid in her eyes as she took Ithildiel’ hand sitting her cousin down near a mirror. “Let me help you arrange the hair so the tiara fits them the best.” She eagerly used this opportunity. Celebrian secretly enjoyed brushing someone’s hair but her mother rarely allowed her to touch golden locks and Ithildiel also didn’t highly enjoy overly long combing procedures. “It might be exciting to meet some many new elves. The guests in Lorien are rare. We will probably get an opportunity to speak with Master Elrond.” She beamed almost playing with long dark curls.

[Eomund]

" I wounded the captain, right near the left shoulder, you ask how a captain, well, his or hers armour was carved with Ithildin and he or she had a sword with many runes on it, i just couldn't read them... Captain was tall and had long dark hair i think, but they were under cloaks so i dont know for definetly."

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane turned suddenly. A woman stood behind her smiling. "Oh Ninde you scared me!" She smiled at the woman who had been her friend, and lady's maid for many years. "I won't be needing your services tonight mellon nin. But our guests will. The Ladies of Lothlorien came without maids themselves, so I would appreciate it if you would go help them prepare for the feast. They will want to make a fantastic impression tonight I imagine."

Ninde smiled. "I'll do yours first my lady," Ninde said. "And you're to wear the sage green tonight." 'Looks good with grey,' the woman thought smugly. "You sit, I do a quick braiding, and then I'll head over to the Ladies."

Eamane laughed. "You have ever been more decisive about clothes than I." She sat in the chair Ninde pointed to and within moments, a few careful braids had been added and twisted into her red-gold hair. When Ninde reached for the small box of accessories, Eamane stopped her. "I'll have no decorations tonight. The Princesses will shine all the more for it."

"You'll need just the one, to hold the braids as they are," Ninde insisted, lifting a delicate mithril butterfly, and clipping it into her hair. "And now I go. Take care as you dress not to muss your hair mellon nin. Namarie." The slender blonde left then, quickly.

Eamane spent a moment more admiring Ninde's work, before hurrying to pull the sage green dress from the wardrobe. She didn't even consider wearing a different dress. Once she had it on, she was glad of that. The full skirt fell in soft green folds, like heavy moss. The bodice was fitted, and the sleeves long bells, through which her hands could barely be seen. There was intricate silver embroidery at the hems and neckline. Eamane pulled a silvery grey sash from the wardrobe and tied it carefully at her waist. She surveyed the effect in the mirror. "That will do." She suppressed a thought of what Glorfindel would say, for such thinking led to madness. "Now to wait for the summons."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Overdressed?" Ithil smiled. " I do not think so; I think this is one of those occasions where you put on your very best gown and spend the evening chatting politely with a whole bunch of strangers", she added, feigning vexation, as Celebrian sat her down and started combing her hair softly. "And I think a tiara, for you, at least, is quite appropriate; you are the princess of Lothlorien...you ought to remind people of that!" By 'people' she meant Lord Altenen, though she did not say that; she had not cared for his behaviour towards her cousin when they had met him earlier; she felt he needed to be reminded of who it was he was being so...careless towards.

We will probably get an opportunity to speak with Master Elrond.” She beamed almost playing with long dark curls.

Ithil turned to look at her, extracting a protest by her cousin; her abrupt movement had tangled her hair again. "Lord Elrond?" she said, teasingly. "Ah....that explains it...all this fervent activity to look as pretty as you can-though I'll have to say...you already look perfect! The Lord of Rivendell...the face you saw in the Mirror..."

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel nodded. Apparently whoever ambushed the party was prepared well in advance as well as determined to leave not too many tracks of their doing. There weren’t that many striking details Lorien Marchwarden could tell him. He decided to proceed with investigation before asking any other questions. “Thank you, Haldir. I appreciate having this information." He said.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian blushed half angrily half in protest trying to return her cousin in the appropriate position in front of the mirror. “Don’t you think we should take at least some interest in the only image I clearly caught in the mirror and take effort to understand it better by getting to know him?” She asked slightly irritably. “I assume the Lord will be preoccupied with many other things and I would like his attention.” Not without enjoyment she lightly jerked her cousin’s hair trying to release the brush that got tangled up in curls although making sure it wasn’t hurtful.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond lay back in the large bathtub, already feeling invigorated by the sense of the hot water covering him; he felt awake again, and utterly relaxed, his worries melting away in the steam that enveloped the entire room. It had taken a long time for his bath to be readied, as almost everyone in the household had been apparently busy with the feast; it seemed Daewen had drafted all the help she could get to get everything ready in time.

His mind relaxed and his guard down, his thought shifted inexplicably to the visitors from Lothlorien and Mirkwood...though he found the image of the ladies of Lothlorien lingered in his mind a little more than the young prince of Mirkwood. The Lady Ithildiel was without a doubt one of the prettiest -not to mention fieriest-elven maides he had ever encountered, but Lady Celebrian...his thought stopped, the image of her looking at him startled as she had,froze in his mind: she was...even as shocked as he had seen her...the most beautiful creature he had seen in his long life; the resemblace with her mother was obvious, though Celebrian had a freshness...a radiance that had already caught his eye.

He had already regretted his hasty words towards her almost the moment he had uttered them. "I behaved like...an ogre", he thought, as he at last slipped out of the tub and wrapped himself in a warm bathrobe. "I must make amends, toninght already, if the chance arises"; he moved into his bedroom, and took out a formal outfit in silvery grey, decorated with subtle silver embriodery around the clasps and sleeves; it wasn't a robe, but closely resembled the army's uniform in design."This will do nicely", he thought, dressing hastily. Still his thought was on Celebrian; he puzzled at that greatly, but could not really stop himself from thinking about her...and found it utterly difficult to think of anything else. "Guilty conscience", he jested to himself, quite unsuccessfully, before summoning his servant.

"Go and find Lord Glorfindel, Lord Erestor, Lady Eamane and Lady Daewen...have them come here; and then summon everyone to the feast", he said abstractedly. "Tell the Lords it is my wish that the Council of Imladris and myself arrive at the feast all together", he added; the elf left and Elrond picked up one of his books, but could not read...still, Celebrian's thought swam restlessly in his mind.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Ouch!" said Ithil, though not really in pain, as Celebrian pulled the brush out of her hair. "I suppose you are right", she said thoughtfully, "but I still think it's strange...to be honest I thought...I sort of expected Lord Altenen to be the one you saw in the Mirror...and it's Elrond...I wonder what that means..."

[Ladypain]

Celebrian disguised a sudden pause in her heart, as she knew Ithildiel was watching her reflection in the mirror. “Master Elrond is a ruler of Imladris and he is the one who will have a final say in the conflict we are involved in not Lord Altenen. The mirror gives advice on big issues and not other rather minor on bigger scale affairs. However, if we are to consider those interpretations you speak of than what about that other image you saw?” She teased. “As I recall someone with blond hair and blue eyes and as I recall mesmerizing?” Light knock on the door interrupted them.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithil saw her cousin try to mask her nervousness and felt unnerved herself; she was only guessing...and she certainly did not mean to upset Celebrian, merely trying to put her own thoughts in order; she was so confused...

However, if we are to consider those interpretations you speak of than what about that other image you saw?” She teased. “As I recall someone with blond hair and blue eyes and as I recall mesmerizing?”

Ithil laughed at the tease. "Well, I have seen nobody here yet to match that description", she jested. "You can be sure I would point him out to you the second I saw him...and I may yet", she laughed; Celebrian laughed as well.

A light knock on the door interrupted them. "Enter" said Celebrian, wondering as to who it might be. An elven maiden came in, bowing; another followed her. "My ladies", she said, "I am Ninde;Lady Eamane sent me to see if you needed any help with your preparations for the feast; is there anything we can help you with?"

Ithildiel looked at Celebrian, not sure how she should respond to this; her own hair was almost ready,flowing softly upon her back, and they were both dressed-they always preferred taking care of themselves, both feeling uncomfortable with maids serving them hand and foot..."Do you think we shall need someoneto help us finish with our hair, My lady?" she addressed Celebrian,using the formal greeting, almost without realising it.

[Ladypain]

“Thank you Ninde we are nearly ready. We may not need any help for now.” Celebrian smiled at the maid who was awing at them. The expression on the maidens face revealed some disappointment. Celebrian felt a little sorry for the she-elf for it was only natural to be a little curious about new visitors. “Almost ready…however I still need to finish my hair. Would you be so kind to do it for me?” She beckoned the Ninde into the room and surrendered her gold and silver locks into another’s care. “Lady Ithildiel will also need to finish with her preparations.” She beamed a formal title to her cousin.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithil smiled at the formality in her cousin's voice, amused; the elf dame, now combing her cousin's hair meticulously, seemed awestruck with them, on seeing them. "Well, I suppose this means we are properly attired, to say the least", she thought observing the whole procedure, seeking to forget her worries, even if it was only for tonight; she hoped many of her questions might be answered at the feast...

Ninde finished with Celebrian's hair, and placed the tiara over them cautiouly; her cousin now remided her of Galadriel more than ever; she had the same magnificence, but an even more...ethereal grace. Ninde looked at her with the utmost admiration, even as she finished with Ithildiel's hair and set the mithril tiara upon her hair. "You are ready now, my ladies", Ninde said, in all due courtesy. "I believe that when the summons are heard, someone wil be here to escort you to the Great Hall;now, if you do not need me any further, I shall take my leave..."she added shyly, bowing deeply as she left. Ithildiel turned to Celebrian, a soft smile settling upon her lips. "And I think you are fairer than the stars themselves tonight, mellon nin", she teased her, maikng her blush. "Though, I'll have to say", she continued humourously, looking at her own reflection, "I do not look that bad myself".She had finally decided not to spoil Celebrian's evening with her own worry;her cousin was so excited it was a pity to make her fret over mere suspicion and concern with no apparent reason for it.

[Ladypain]

Knowing Elrond will be soon sending for him as the party was about to begin Glorfindel directed himself towards the ruler’s office having finished the business with Haldir. He blanked his mind of the plans to sneak out making a list of things to be thinking about once he is in what he called a ‘telepathy range’. Elrond too often for his liking intercepted random thoughts. As he entered a corridor which led to the rulers office a servant approached him with message that indeed the Lord wished to have nearly everyone entering together. Glorfindel let the servant go reaching the right office in several hasty footsteps and knocked.

[Aletheia]

Lady Daewen had nearly finished overseeing the preparations for the feast.
It would be a grand affair, formal and lush, every detail seen to in perfect calculation. She had sent her maid-in-waiting, Lossiel, off to see that the cooks prepared evrything on time, and then had removed herself to her appartments to freshen up for the celebration.
Daewen took great pride in her appearance, and usually draping herself in finary for a feast would have pleased her, but tonight her mind was still realling from her confrintation with Eamane and the discovery that the marchwarden was indeed unharmed.
Upset, she dismissed the servent girls that came to help her and readied herself alone. Going to her wardrobe she pulled out an elaborate gown of crushed emarald-green velvet with ornate gold and scarlet embroidery and a low neckline. Daewen slipped it over her slender form and then added a finely tooled mithril belt at the hips. She brushed her waist-length hair untill it shined and then pulled some of it up in a delicate braided coif, finisheing it off with a circlet fashioned of tiny leaf-shaped jewels. She looked stunning.
Pleased with her appearence she made her way back to the grand hall to oversee the final prepations. I wonder if Glorfindal will grace us with his presence she thought sarcasticly as a sly grin crept over her face.

[Eomund]

Haldir went to his troops, which consisted of great lords and he said them to be ready for the feast, soon he went back, thinking over the ambush again and again. Soon he found himself wlaking around the gate, and he decided to go out in the evening to control the clearing to see if any tracks or things were left behind by the enemies. He also went and put his sword to his belt but underev the cloak.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane was looking through her scrolls that listed of medicinal herbs and various plants when there was a knock at her door. Putting away the scroll, she went to the door. A servant of Elrond stood there. "Yes?" she asked.

"Lord Elrond requests that you meet his party at his office so that all Rivendell representatives can enter the feast together," he said.

"Thank you," Eamane said. "Could you tell me who it in that party?" She hid her nervousness behind a smile."

"Elrond's advisors, Lord Erestor and the Lady Daewen, as well as the Marchwarden my lady," he answered.

Eamane nodded and the servant turned to go. "Thank you," she called again. She grabbed her cloak to sheild her from the night air. Disdaining her slippers in favor of bare feet, she went out and headed for Elrond's estate. The servant had gone in another direction. Feeling the soft loambeneath her feet she smiled. 'It isn't like I'll be dancing, and no one will see my feet but me,' she thought. Pulling up her hood she hurried through the city.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

There was a knock on the door. Elrond put down the book he had been trying-quite unsuccessfully, for his mind was elsewhere entirely. "Minno", he said, coolly collecting himself. A little to his surprise, Glorfindel came in, all dressed up and ready. He seemed significantly rested, thought Elrond relieved. "Maybe putting Eamane up to watching over him tonight was unnecessary, after all", he thought, as his Marchwarden went and seated himself in one of the sofas.He seemed cool and relaxed, thought Elrond, but there was something...some restlessness in his mind that he could also sense; he could sense nothing specific, though, and he decided to discard it...he had already decided to leave all questions till the morning.

He sat across from his Marchwarden, who was looking at him anxiously and smiled calmly. " Not that I am complaining, mellon nin, but it has not been five minutes since I sent Tillon to inform you, Erestor, and the ladies Eamane and Daewen to assemble here; how is it you have answered the summons so swiftly? I hope you have received all the rest you needed..."

[Charmander]

Legolas bid farwell to Eamane as she quickly departed. He was most concerned that the maidens from Lothlorien had been attacked, and not by Orcs - which meant most likely elves. He wondered, had his father's madness stretched further still? He seemed most unreasonable at their parting, but to have an attack on the Princesses of Lothlorien would be most imprudent. He thought then of his father's advisor, Thalion, always he was giving his father advice that seemed to affirm his father's beliefs about the malfeasance of Lothlorien. It seemed contrived at best - but Legolas was never able to divorce his father from this advisor and had long since stopped trying. Now more than ever he wished he had taken the time to talk with his father's most loyal captain, she would certainly have known if an attack had been planned. Perhaps he could send word back to Mirkwood without his father's knowelgde.

Legolas walked into the bathroom and looked at himself in the mirror. His lavender raiment was befitting of his status, but, he thought, perhaps I should wear my crown. If this feast was indeed a big event as Eamane indicated then he must be certain to look his best. He found it among his things and arranged it in the midst of the braids upon his head. He was uncertain where the feast was to be located and thought, Imladris can not be so large that he can not find his way. He exited his chambers and began to meander the area, his two assigned guards bowed and fell in line behind him. They did not speak directly to him as he made his way around the grounds. He thought, surely they would not allow him to go in the opposite direction?

[Eomund]

Ithildin Haldir thought but, only from Moria and Erebor are the places to get Mithril now, and from Mithril you make Ithildin, so the most northmost guards of The Naith should have reckoned it's coming to Moria, only other way is to go to Laketown and then to Erebor, where dwarves dwelt, but that is too easy for Mirkwood elves, but the Runes... runes...

There was said: Lake - that was for sure but there was more...i could not read them, it was like Dwarvish in Elvish Runes, it seemed like Captain of Bodyguard or something like that, or they could have been just assasins, that is a reason for their numbers. Mercenaries, or hired men from everywhere but who would want the Princess dead, only one person, and he wants all dead.... He could not have done that. I atleast hope that war would come and after it, after the peace we would go against the Ulaire... they could have hired the merceneries.

[Charmander]

Thranduril sat quietly in his chambers. He was disquieted by the lack of communication from both his son and Cpt. Sarna. Both should have reached Rivendale, Sarna should be on her way back with the two girls. He believed it masterful to have his son arriving at Rivendale around the same time the Princesses of Lothlorien should be arriving. He had his trusted advisor Thalion to thank for that brilliance. Thranduril knew that Celebron and Galadriel would not immediately suspect him for the kidnapping if his own son was in the same area and in harms way!

A manservant knocked on the door and annoucned to the lord that three of the party with Cpt. Sarna had returned; Alcon, Riel and Kelumo. The latter two being injured and being escorted to the healers. Thranduril was not pleased with this turn of events. Why had Sarna sent back three? Had her plan changed or was she awaiting orders? He ordered the manservant to have Alcon report to him at once and then find Thalion to hear said report.

Thranduril made his way from his inner chambers to a smaller room where he often held council. He settled himself down behind a large desk and waited.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel left the office door open. He relaxed into the sofa his mood lifting despite the sneaky task ahead to which he began to look to with amusement. It was long since he engaged in any activity farther in the wilds away from the city. “My arrival is a coincidence with the order. I was in the corridor right beside the office when the servant caught me.” He responded to Elrond. Light footsteps reached his ear. “The questions about answering to summons should be directed to…” He nodded at the door just as Erestor entered with a knock. The advisor had always responded to Elrond’s orders appearing within ten minutes no matter where he was fetched from. The speed astounded Glorfindel on various occasions. Glorfindel greeted Erestor after Elrond did without moving an inch from the seat and only got up when Daewen and Eamane entered almost at the same time. He elegantly bowed to them.

[Aletheia]

Thalion was out practicing his marksmenship with a fine new longbow when word arrived that King Thranduril hd requested an audiance. He put the bow & arrows back into the finely carved quiver and pulled it into place on his back. Picking up his thrown off cape from the forest floor, he strode off to meet with Thranduril, the wheels of his mind ever turning in thought to how he would weave his own designs into the report he would give the King.
He knew Daewen was most likely furious with him now, and this put him in even more ill spirits. He hated her, hated her tempers, but loved her addamantly nonetheless........
He tried to collect his thoughts as he stepped into Thranduril's chambers.
"My King," he said, bowing low, "How good it is to see you looking so well! But I percieve that you have not called me here to exchange pleasentries. it is a report that you desire, I deem. Your captain, no doubt, has told you some, but my Lord, I will tell you this. The ladies did arrive in Rivendell unscathed and well, no kidnapping took place.
Your son Legolas is also arrived in Imladris, though my Lord surely knows this, and all matters regarding his son." And the eyes of Thalion looked straight at the King witha keen glance.

[Charmander]

Thranduril bowed in response to Thalion's greeting. "My King," he said, bowing low, "How good it is to see you looking so well! But I percieve that you have not called me here to exchange pleasentries. it is a report that you desire, I deem. Your captain, no doubt, has told you some, but my Lord, I will tell you this. The ladies did arrive in Rivendell unscathed and well, no kidnapping took place. Your son Legolas is also arrived in Imladris, though my Lord surely knows this, and all matters regarding his son."

Thranduril repsonded, "So you have spoken with Alcon on your way here?" As Thranduril spoke these words Alcon appeared at the door and bowed.

Alcon said, 'My lord, Cpt. Sarna bid me return and bring you tidings of our endeavor. We met unfortunate resistance close to Imladris. The Marchwarden of Imladris wounded two of our men. Cpt. Sarna was also injured, but would not leave her duties. She remains in the area of Imladris, I know not to what end. I fear she may be entering the city in pursuit of the Princesses of Lothlorien."

Thranduril and Thalion listened closely to this account. Once Alcon had finished Thranduril asked, "Is this all you have to report?" To which Alcon responded in the affirmative and was dismissed by the lord.

Thranduril looked at Thalion as Alcon departed and said, 'Cpt. Sarna was unable to take the advantage when she had it, will she have a better opportunity within the walls of Imladris? It grows more dangerous for my son if she chooses to enter Imladris under any pretence that involves Mirkwood. You are my trusted advisor Thalion, you certainly have a better solution."

Thranduril looked at Thalion, a tall elf, dressed conservatively, and awaited his response.

[Aletheia]

Daewen had been lighting the candels in the great hall for the feast when a servent tapped her on the shoulder, giving her a start and almost causing on of her long, draping sleves to catch fire.
"What is it that is so important that you would disturb me while I am about the work of your Lord!?!" she questioned him.
"My Lady,"he said humbly," it is on the business of my Lord that I have called you. Elrond asks that you meet him in his study immediatly."
"What is this," she mused alloud, and then turning to him asked, "Was it only me he summoned, or will others also be there?" and she looked at him sternly.
"The Lady Eamane I also gave this message to, and also the marchwarden, Glorfindal. But, Lady, I would ask you not to tarry firther and be on your way speedily," and he bowed and left her.
At this, Daewen turned and left in haste, and made her way to Elrond's study.
Upon her arrival there, she was met face to face with Eamane, clad in a garment much like her own but less ornamented. Daewen gaev her a haughty look, but then turned and entered the chamber. Glorfindal turned and bowed elegantly as the ladies entered the room, and Elrond rose from his seet in greeting.

[Aletheia]

Thalion had kept silent, watching as Alcon gave his report to the King. Only after Alcon had left did Thalion speek again."My King, long have I sought to advise you well, and long have I held only your best intrests in my heart," Thalion spoke, "I know you fear for the safety of your son, and now it seems that even those whom you trust would put their own selves before the the Prince. If Captain Sarna does indeed choose to follow the princess to the very walls of Imladris, things could grow dim indeed, yet we may be able to use this to our advantage still. But my Lord, I wonder at this; that while the Captain had the upperhand, she failed to capture the ladies, and that now she herself does not come back to seek your counsel, but instead goes rashly into the valleys of Rivendell with narry a thought to the safety or will of her leige." Thalion came and stood beside the king, and he grasped his hand as if in friendship.
"The time has come, My lord, to choose those in whom you would place your trust. But I would counsel you in this, that you would allow Sarna to make her way into Rivendell, so that she and the Prince might have a better advantage, being granted acess to the princesses.....perhaps we can even use Lothlorien's own ambassadors against themselves."

[Charmander]

Thranduril trusted Thalion with his life. He knew his advisor had the best interests of Mirkwood at heart. Thranduril sometimes wished that his son were more like Thalion, willing to look at the bigger picture rather than the appearance of justice. Legolas always seemed caught up in the appearance of being a just leader, whereas Thalion knew what was at stake and made decisions accordingly.

Thranduril returned the grasp of Thalion and said, 'You speak wisely my friend, as always. I do wonder at her rash behaviour, but she is always prone to such actions when she has not succeeded the first time.' At this the lord laughed and Thalion smiled in agreement. 'There is rarely a need for a second assault.'

Thranduril continued, 'You are correct. The ambassadors of Lorien can easily be manipulated by my son if not Lord Elrond himself. All that is required is the proper opportunity. If Sarna poses as a liason for my son she will have access to as many places as he, if not more. She will be able to grab the young maidens and flee before anyone is the wiser. Thalion, please have a message sent to Sarna as to what her actions should be to kidnap the two princesses. Have her pose as a member of Legolas' party, lost in the woods perhaps, or delayed for some other reason and have her keep a close eye, she will know when the time is right and take advantage. I thank you kindly my old friend.'

[Aletheia]

Thalion listened while the King spoke, smiling in aggreement to the comment about Sarna."Wisely spoken, My Lord! I will do even as you say. I will send my most trusted messenger to capt. Sarna, and she shall make her entrance into Imladris under the guise of Legolas's liason. I think that you will find that once they are inside, it will be easy to work things in our favor," thalion said, for he knew the plans of Daewen, "All shall work out for the good of your Kingdom, my leige and my friend!" And Thalion bowed to the king, and took his leave.
Once in his appartments, he summoned Tulcollo, his squire, to him, bidding him to make his way in haste to Captain Sarna and deliver the King's message to her."And see to it that you speak with the Lady Daewen, who also resides in Rivendell." And then the squire left in great haste.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond rose to greet Daewen and Eamane, a little surprised; he did not expect them to arrive together, that was for sure; a glance swiftly exchanged with Glorfindel and Erestor told him they were at the very least, just as surprised.

"You look radiant tonight, my ladies", he said politely;he noticed Daewen give Eamane dark looks; tonight, omre than ever his advisor and the Chief Healer of Imladris looked like siblings; sometimes he was really taken aback by their uncanny resemblance; but there was a force...a rigidity in Daewen Eamane never possessed. Lady Daewen was a hardened politician, he thought; Eamane was a physician, a kind and gentle nature, though hard enough when need arose. "You might want to make yourselves comfortable, my ladies; we shall await for our guests to take their places in the Hall before joining them", he said, motioning them to sit down in the sofas that stood almost all around his office. Glorfindel moved aside, so that Eamane could sit by his side. "Is it me", thought Elrond,"or is Glorfindel acting...a little too cheerfully tonight?" Daewen sat at the other side of the room, folding her long skirt gracefully.

[Ladypain]

Daewen and Eamane entered together. They did look alike. Yet, Glorfindel could hardly find in them any resemblance. Daewen was taller, darker eyes, features slightly sharper as much as her character was also a blend of sudden mood changes and separately highlighted emotions. He could not deny she possessed charm but it was more of the attraction children would find in gothic tales and perhaps dark mystery. He much rather liked the smoother kinder Eamane. She had a quality to attract and make almost anyone comfortable around her, perhaps that’s why she made such a brilliant healer. Even what they were wearing was only superficially similar but there was too much brightness in nearly poisonous emerald green meanwhile the eyes rested easily on its sage version. Glorfindel moved aside allowing Eamane to sit down and placed himself near her. He was glad Daewen sat down on the opposite side of the room. ~I wouldn’t mistake the flickering of superficial fireworks with sunshine. ~ He thought.

[Aletheia]

Daewen suppressed the first idea that crossed her mind as she saw Eamane sit down next to Glorfindal. I'ld like to stab them both here and now she thought, absent-mindedly folding the fabric of her dress and running her long fingers over her dagger, Serkruth, concealed in a small sheath above her ankle. She looked up when she realized Lord Elrond had been speaking.
"Forgive me, your grace," she purred, "My thoughts have run away with me, and I am anxoius for tonight's feast. I pray you will find my preparations for the feast appropriate for such grand company as our guests." Daewen smiled charmingly but her eyes travled once again to Eamane and Glorfindal.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane had deposited her cloak in a room off the hall near Elrond's study before continuing there. She met Daewen in the hall, and though she smiled a polite greeting, neither had said a word. The counselor wore a brilliant emerald green gown that shimmered and glittered with ornate gold embroidery. Eamane's own simple sage green gown seemed even more muted and soft in comparison. She was suddenly glad she had allowed Ninde to add the butterfly to her hair. Though the thought shamed her, she wanted that simple sparkle, if only to prove to herself that Daewen was not the only woman who could.

The surprise on the faces of the gentlemen in the study upon the ladies arrival together was nearly comical and Eamane smiled brightly. All three were looking their best... and Glorfindel was quite dashing in simple dark grey. He moved aside for her to sit down and she did so. Her heart gave a sudden thump when he sat down next to her. 'Tis only that he did not want to sit beside Daewen...' she told herself. With surprise, she realised that her sash matched Glorfindel's clothing nearly perfectly. 'Ninde...' she thought with a rueful smile. Her lady's maid had long suspected of her feelings, and had done this before, finding through routes unknown the wardrobe choices of the Marchwarden and matching Eamane's gowns to them.

Looking up, she saw Daewen glance in her direction, the brief flare in her green eyes was hot. Eamane frowned and refocused her attention on the conversation.

[Aletheia]

Daewen continued to speak, though her attention was now fully switched to Glorfindal, and she continued to eye Eamane. Her glance looked something like a lioness stalking its prey right before the kill. "Lord Glorfindal, forgive me for asking, but do you plan to crawl through Rivendell's bushes tonight? Or perhaps the marchwarden did not see it fit to dress in vain finary for a mere feast, however grand it may be," she said in a tone that conveyed a haughty amusement. Daewen laughed, and it sounded like the tolling most beautiful silver bells, yet their was another tone in it, subtle and nearly unheard, that reminded one of a cold steel blade."I see you have dressed to match, sweet lady healer, but then again it is wise of you, a bolder color would not have matched your meek and mild disposition." It might of sounded like a teasing compliment, between good natured friends, but Daewen knew Eamane would pick up on its veiled meaning.

[EamaneSilimaure]

'That vixen!' Eamane thought, going pale with anger. 'If she thinks I'm going to sit here and ignore the insult she's got another thing coming!'
Eamane's normally calm grey-green eyes flashed their own fire as she responded coldly, "The Marchwarden need not glitter and preen link a vain peacock to show his merit to our guests." Eamane took a breath, trying to calm down. They were in Elrond's study after all. 'I hope she's intelligent enough to catch my meaning with that. As for her remark about my own dress... I'll not dignify it with a response.' she thought fiercely, glaring at Daewen.

((OOC:Daewen is soooo :evil:!))

[Ladypain]

Completely ignoring any dressing remarks on his behalf and only slightly worried Daewen might be onto his plan Glorfindel felt a sudden flash of anger towards the councilor as it touched Eamane. He spoke the thought he recently had out loud. “Although the flickering of superficial firework lights is intriguing I wouldn’t trade it for natural sunshine. Too much flickering blinds away our true virtues although for some who have something to hide this might be convenient.” He was looking at directly at Daewen however seen the furious short-lived flash in her eyes decided this was not the place for farther insults he changed the tone to a more friendly one. “As for myself, crawling through the bushes is rather appealing however I would not dare to deliberately miss a feast Lady Daewen worked so skillfully to prepare in their favor.” Although he couldn’t lie to Elrond or someone close to him Glorfindel had no guilty conscience doing so to Daewen. “The reason for my rather sad color choices as keenly Lady Daewen have pointed out is a devious plan to disguise any evidence of a poor table manners after the feast.” He smiled disarmingly to everyone in the room.

He was slightly laughing at Elrond with the remark. Glorfindel didn’t have poor manners but during one of the most formal feasts where the etiquette required seven forks the to be placed by the plate he never bothered to pick a right one despite somewhat infuriated looks Elrond gave him sometimes. Glorfindel didn’t think a dead duck really cared what type of fork he used on it.

With the last remark Glorfindel got up and picked an apple from a fruit bawl that was on Elrond’s table than plopped himself in an armchair nearly in the middle of the room placing one foot on another and juicily sinking his teeth into it. He tried to disguise a big grin at the sour facial expression Daewen made at the deliberate manner he ate the apple. Erestor stood in the corner pretending to be interested in a decoration outside the room his face turning magenta. Finally Glorfindel choked on the apple and coughed worsening the situation because he was trying to hide the satisfied laughter.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Although the flickering of superficial firework lights is intriguing I wouldn’t trade it for natural sunshine."

Eamane's heart gave another thud at Glorfindel's comment and she glanced at him. There was anger behind his eyes... on her behalf. She had to swallow her own smile as her head suddenly felt light and her heart full. Then as Glorfindel charmingly smoothed over it all with a snap of wit, she let her smile free. His movement from the sofa to the chair left her momentarily saddened, but Daewen's expression was so priceless that she could not remain so for long.

As the Marchwarden bit into his apple, she caught his eye, knowing her own sparkled with laughter, and he choked and began to cough to hide his own amusement. They had both sparred with Daewen and it seemed rendered her speechless.

"Do you need some water Marchwarden?" Eamane asked, suddenly concerned as his cough worsened.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel was slightly worried on how Eamane could perceive his actions. Catching a sight on her shining eyes intensified his enjoyment. As he choked he desperately tried to stop coughing and only healers somewhat worried voice helped him cease the laughing. “No need but thank you My Lady.” Glorfindel managed between the coughs. “It would be a shame to die in presence of two best healers in Imladris.” He finally more or less normalized the breathing.

[Aletheia]

Daewen listened to Eamane's remarks with intrest. She had caught Eamane's meaning, but it did not offend her that she thought her as vain, for she knew she was, and figured she well had reason to be. Her comment had hit home with Lady Eamane, and seeing the usually gentle healer so angered gave Daewen a cruel sort of sense of accomplishment.

Her attention refocused on Glorfindal as he began to speak, “Although the flickering of superficial firework lights is intriguing I wouldn’t trade it for natural sunshine. Too much flickering blinds away our true virtues although for some who have something to hide this might be convenient.”

Hmmm, he thinks Im hiding something, how very perceptive of him, she thought condescendingly, too bad the fool doesnt know the half of it...
But he is hiding something as well, else he would not have so readily come up with an explanation as to why his choice of clothing is so plain. What secrecy is he planning, I wonder? Whatever it may be I will know of it!
She watched with disgust as he took an apple an deliberatly ate it in front of her.Imbasol!she thought. For a time she was speechless, and seemed to be thinking, and her hand reached tword Serkruth with desire.But she answered them in a tone like silk, "I can see that my remarks have offended you both. Come now! They were meant only in jest, let us make ammends before we partake of the feast! Shall we forgive eachother, friends? For tonight is a night for merryment and joy, not wrath and envy. Would you have our guests think that in Imladris dwell such fools that they would fight even amongst themselves?"
And she graced them all witha fair smile.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane nodded and smiled, relieved at Glorfindel's response, and her eyes continued to sparkle. Then Daewen recovered herself enough to remark smoothly,

"I can see that my remarks have offended you both. Come now! They were meant only in jest, let us make ammends before we partake of the feast! Shall we forgive eachother, friends? For tonight is a night for merryment and joy, not wrath and envy. Would you have our guests think that in Imladris dwell such fools that they would fight even amongst themselves?"

Eamane returned Daewen's smile with one of her own, and in a voice soft and calming as velvet responded, "Offended my lady? Of course not! We are all friends here. For what are we to make ammends?" Eamane avoided the eyes of both Elrond and Erestor. 'I'll not apologize for turning her own words back on her!' she thought fiercely.

"As for our impression on the guests, I imagine we will present quite the united front, especially at such a lavish affair as this feast is bound to be. Since you of course arranged it all," Eamane paused and added. "I'm sure they will appreciate all the trouble your servants went to." She was nearly shocked at her own boldness, but the woman deserved it. She waited for a reaction, her eyes fastened on the councilor.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel almost choked in laugher again. Daewen received back more than she anticipated in insults and now was trying to slip away through her usual diplomatic call to peace. He had a most innocent smile as he supported what Eamane said. “How can anyone take insult in hearing you laugh in that melodious tone Lady Daewen? We were merely mirroring as what we perceived as a good humor. Hearing a friendly interaction would surely give our guests opinion of our most excellent understanding and union rather than division.” He was fairly sure the joke was on her.

[Aletheia]

Lady Daewen smiled, but beneath her long sleves she dug her nails so deeply into her own flesh it bled. She was aware of their unspoken mockery beneath their tones of feigned friendship, and it infurriated her. But if bitting her tounge ment the difference between having Elrond's trust or no, she would do it. You laugh now, but you will weep when all I have planned comes to pass. You will beg Illuvatar to rescue you from your immortality so bitter shall your days turn! But she said nothing, and bore no sign of malice outwardly, and her face seemed calm and serene as a warm lake under bright stars, and her grey-green eyes took on a peaceful cast like a dove. If someone who had not met her before saw her then, they would have thought to have seen a vision of Elbereth herself, so finely did she wear her mask.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel stretched his hand getting another apple and playfully threw it several times into the air catching it each time. He momentarily considered a size of the lump it would make on Daewen’s forehead if it was to hit her and than took a bite. He stretched in the armchair with the most ingenuousness and half closed his eyes observing the peaceful mask under which lay fury. She hid it well but he knew she was angry. This did not bother him as long as it would be directed at him only. His glance suddenly fell on Lord of Imladris and he now struggled to keep the cool front. Elrond did not look happy.