MIRKWOOD RPG

[Gayahithwen]

Daegon slowed his steps when he heard some of the elves following him. Now, all he had to do was to find the Orcs again. He stopped and looked around to see who it was that was following him. It was the three girls. Smiling, he waited for them to get closer to him. When they came close enough to see his face, he had allready changed the smile into a desperate look.

"I need to save them. If not, I'm going there to die with them. I can't abandon them, as a captain can not abandon his ship!"

[ September 21, 2002: Message edited by: Gayahithwen ]

[Thalionyulma]

Rinurion was caught by suprise by the elf, Daegon. The other female elves followed in his direction, which caused him to worry. After a few moments he followed them.

He noticed that Daegon seemed to be leading them away from the elven path and he grew suspicious. He quickened his pace to match those of the elf girl, Sauche.

"Keep wary and be ready. I do not trust him quite entirely," the tall elf said under his breath that only Sauche and Gayahithwen would be able to hear.

Ahead he began to notice, the trees seemed to be thicker...

[Thalionyulma]

Rûdchamion felt the young wolf calm down a little. The elf too sensed the eerie quietness. It was too silent, like the woods was holding its breathe and was watching. He noticed as they drew nearer to Dol Guldur, the forest seemed more darker... with a taint of evil that seemed to linger about.

I know Khelek. But we must be prepared for the unexpected. I feel much will depend on our quest. We must not fail. Rest now. He tried to reassure the wolf pup.

"You must try to rest as well," he smiled at Anarya trying to calm her as well. "I shall keep watch, the rain bothers me not."

He laid down his pack. After adjusting his "armor", he kept his bow ready, though unstrung. He began his uneasy vigil.

[Dark-Caranthir]

The thing was an elf!
At least it looked like one, the face was haggard and more pale, but when the thing opened it's mouth Mornovarion paled. The thing had fangs! Mornovarion was shocked with a sudden realistation... Vampire!
'But they were all destroyed in the War of Wrath, weren't they?' thought Mornovarion.
"I know what you're thinking," the vampire said, "Vampires were all destroyed in the War of Wrath, Yes?"
Mornovarion nodded weakly.
"Well, we weren't actually destroyed, as such, we simply lost all our powers of shapechanging. And the elves took us and trapped us in caves, deep beneath the Earth. So when Lord Sauron rose again, he rescued us from our tombs. We joined to his cause, as have you..."
Now an orc entered the small room, carrying a branding iron and rammed it against Mornovarion's shoulder, as he screamed in pain, he could see the Vampire laughing.
And then he passed out...

[ September 06, 2002: Message edited by: Dark-Caranthir ]

[Thalionyulma]

Rûdhchamion was whetting his knife when he sensed his companions stir. It had been an uneasy, yet uneventful night. He had been in deep thought, and the dark elf could not completely shake off the dread that was growing in his mind. He pushed the thought aside for now, they needed to plot their path ahead.

The elves were soon eating a small meal to break their fast. The young mortal was still asleep, and they thought it best they let her.

“What direction should we take towards Dol Guldur?” asked Anarya suddenly as she finished her meal. She had noticed that Rûdhchamion seemed distracted.

“It would be best we stayed near among the trees but follow the stream that leads near there,” the dark elf answered still in thought.

The Hill seems less evil by day… yet the woods cannot hide the malice totally, said the young wolf. He too felt apprehensive.

They were startled by Taralphiel's shout as she cried out in her sleep. It was the dark elf who reached her first.

“What is it, Taralphiel?” Asked the dark elf, startling the young maiden suddenly. He rarely addressed her, and she quickly glanced at Anarya. The elf maiden looked quite concerned.

[ August 27, 2002: Message edited by: Thalionyulma ]

[Taralphiel]

Taralphiel woke up with sweat dripping down her forhead. Her breath rasped and she wanted to scream. She had trouble standing up and when Rudchamion asked her if her sleep was pleasant her leags faied her and with a yelp she fell.

Rudchamion leapt forward and grabbed her shoulders. 'What is the matter?'

Taralphiel beagn to shake 'They are coming. Terrible thing. Living dead. They know we are here' she ranted

'They are here!' she looked at him and saw a slight look of concern and dread.

The faces of the creatures appeared and blurred her sight. Their pale face and sunken eyes seethed with want of life and pain.

Taralphiel's voice cleaed and she spoke again 'They are here'

[Anarya SilverBranch]

Anarya picked up a water canteen nearby and handed it to the shaking mortal. Taraphiel took it gratefully and had her fill of the water. As she set it down it seemed as though sanity creeped back into her eyes and the smoke that had filled her distraught face cleared, leaving the Taraphiel Anarya knew.

"Now Taraphiel, try to breath slower," Rudhchamion coaxed.

Suddenly Anarya felt as though the wind had been knocked out of her. An ill breeze swirled around where they sat, kicking up and leaving as quickly as it had come.

"Something is about," Khelek warned, shaking slightly with cold and anxciousness.

"Its them," Taraphiel breathed.

Anarya looked over at the mortal in horror, "Who Taraphiel?"

"Them." was all the answer she got back.

[GreatWarg]

"There is some evil about. Those shadowy figures... there is something about them I do not like. They seem to possess queer abilities. They are following us and sending news of our journey to the Dark Lord. I do not think we can approach Dol Goldur in secret anymore. And there is also the Eye."

Even as he spoke, the wolf's eyes were watching the sky. Something covered in darkness was flying southwards, and blood was dripping from its throat. The pup shuddered, turning his gaze to the company.

[Thalionyulma]

The dark elf followed the wolf pup’s gaze. He too was horrified by the sight. He had heard of such, in whispered stories of creatures of darkness. Though it was now early morning, the sun was blighted by a thick dark cloud. The air seemed heavy with dread.

Several more dark shapes flew across the gray sky. Rûdchamion quickly motioned his companions to take cover among the trees. Anarya nearly dragged Taralphiel half way before the dark elf finally helped her to her feet, Khelek was close at their heels. They all crouched beneath a group of thrushwood.

Rûdhchamion signaled them to stay still. Anarya saw his uneasiness. He was gripping his bow tightly as he listened and waited. She too found herself readying her bow. The young girl was pale yet readied her knife.

[Anarya SilverBranch]

Anarya held her bow close to her, the arrow fitted neatly in the now taut string. She shivered against the cold and looked over at Taraphiel. She shook violently, from either the grey early morning chill or fear. Anarya soon began to shake as well then looked up into the sky again. It was beginning to lighten in the east, yellow as cream casing the black and silver blue to flee withe th rest of night into the west. No one dared to breathe.

"What were they?" Anarya spoke when she finally felt as though she could move.

"I know not," Answered Rudhchamion slowly, as if it pained him.

"Let us leave this place," Khelek said turning his pale blue eyes to the sun, "It reeks of the evil that has passed"

[Taralphiel]

Taralphiel continued to convulse and her eyes began to dart around. Anarya looked at her
'Where are they Taralphiel'
They are here...and there...'
Suddenly she gasped and let out a cry, thrashing her knife out backwards
'Behind you!' she yelled

[Dark-Caranthir]

Mornovarion opened his eyes.
He was in the woods, at least he wasn't back in the Dark Tower. But then he thought of all the lives he was about to betray, and began to weep. He cursed himself for being so weak-minded, so foolish. In the future, people would remember him, Mornovarion the Weak-Willed, Mornovarion the Traitor.
He began to look for a stream to drown himself in. But a voice rang in his head, "No, you must do the Lord's bidding, now!" With this a jolt of pain shot through Mornovarion and he set off north.

[Leighlei]

Sauche continued to leap from tree to tree, keeping a wary eye on the runaway.
(00c-Strike the tackle... hey, someone IM me when they post: all4vindiesel)

[GreatWarg]

Khelek spun around, eyes glaring. A figure quickly darted back, leaving stains of blood upon the ground. The wolf pup shuddered.

"Nowhere is safe anymore," he said silently. Khelek nudged Anarya. "They are waiting in the shadows for us."

[Anarya SilverBranch]

Anarya stood frozen. It felt as though fear choked her throat and quickened the beating of her heart, yet somehow in that one moment of ultimate terror and danger shards of a melody, a song long ago heard came into her memory, awakening her from her dreamlike state. Like pieces of a broken sword, gleaming and pure, they came.

"Do you know the song of the High Elves?" She asked rapidly looking over at Rudhchamion.

"I do!" said Khelek looking up at the elves.

"Then try to sing with me, and you and Taraphiel try to follow along with us. Perhaps it shall send these things away."

And with that the song began,

Snow-White! Snow-White! O Lady clear
O Queen beyond the Western Seas!
O Light to us that wander here
Amid the world of Woven trees

Gilthoniel! O Elbereth!
Clear are thy eyes and bright they breath!
Snow-White! Snow-White! We sing to thee
In a far land beyond the Sea

O stars that in the Sunless Year
With shining hand by her were sown
In windy fields now bright and clear
We see your silver blossom blown!

O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!
We still remember, we who dwell
In this far land beneath the trees,
Thy starlight on the Western Seas.

[Dark-Caranthir]

It was a pretty uneventful journey north for Mornovarion. Whenever something came out of the shadows to threaten him, it would pause and as if reconsidering backed off. Mornvarion coudn't understand it, he was an easy target. All the enemy had given him to protect himself with was an Orcish knife, admittedly it was a very good blade. One side had a serated blade and the other was sharp and pointed. But that wouldn't beenough to scare away the monstorous beasts in this forest. Another thing that bothered him was the bat that seemed to follow him, wherever he went...

[GreatWarg]

The stooping figures stopped, and quickly retreated into the shadows.

"That was a close one," Khelek commented.

"We will have to be more careful in the future. We do not want to be followed everywhere," Rudhchamion agreed, taking a deep breath.

[Thalionyulma]

The dark elf had stayed silent as the young elf maiden began to sing to the Lady of the Stars. As he listened, something deep within him moved him to join the song that he had never once sang before. But Rûdhchamion knew it for what it was, a song sung by the High Elven. And it seemed that he was no longer in Mirkwood, but another woodland. A place where the land was untouched by evil and the sky was bright under the light of the moon and stars. And as the song ended the fleeting vision faded from his mind’s eye, but stayed engraved in his memory like a wondrous dream that he had just awakened from.

He looked towards where the vile creature of darkness had come from. Not one creature was in sight, much to his relief.

“What was that song Anarya?” Taralphiel asked softly, her eyes shining in wonder. “It was very beautiful.”

“It is the song of the Lady of the Stars, the most beloved among the elvenkind,” Anarya answered, smiling slightly at the young girl.


Rûdhchamion crept warily out of their hiding place, looking around. Though there were no signs of any danger nearby, he could feel the eerie silence that surrounded the woods.

"We will have to be more alert in the future. I doubt that we have heard the last of those creatures," the dark elf said taking a deep breath.

[Taralphiel]

Taralphiel stumbled as the creature quickly recoiled from her dagger. She looked around to see the elves quietly talking. Anarya then began to sing in her own tongue.

Taralphiel watched the creatures retreat in pain as if some unseen force was smiting them into submission. Anarya's beautiful voice floated softly through the trees and Taralphiel felt herself taken away to a mystical place. It was filled with elves singing and dancing and beautiful houses and places beyond her wildest dreams...

When Anarya had finished she stared at her “What was that song Anarya?” “It was very beautiful.”

Anarya explained it was the hymn to the star-queen. Taralphiel smiled at Anarya, and Rudchamion soon gave a warning that the group should be on their guard.

Taralphiel looked around and began to walk alongside Khelek. Although he could not speak, the look in his eyes were more comforting that any words any of them could have told her. She wrapped her arms around him and whispered to him 'Thankyou'. She then stood up and asked the group what would happen next.

[Dark-Caranthir]

Mornovarion cut out of the woods for a short time now, the stifling dark air, which reminded of the dungeons he had been in not too long ago, had been driving him crazy, if he wasn't crazy already. Besides he needed food and whenever he tried to hunt, animals noticed him and sped off, even though he had been quiet and stealthy as only an elf can. He hoped to find a town nearby where he could spend a night at an inn and in comparitive comfort. The voice had protested, but Mornovarion had convinced it that it was for the best.
He had come to a town after a few days and after stealing food and money from a grocery shop had booked in at an inn for a night. While sitting at the bar surrounded by fat men drinking pints of beer, he himself only had a glass of water he noticed that there were other elves at the inn; an old female elf all in white and two younger women, probably her handmaidens. When Mornovarion moved to approach them, he would feel better talking to those of his own kin, than those oafs at the bar, the old elf silenced her two friends and got up and walked past Mornovarion. As she strode past him, she whispered, "I know what haunts you,". Mornovarion's eyes widened at these words, she knew! Something had to be done...

[GreatWarg]

For once, Rudhchamion did not look like he knew what to do. Though the draug had only known the dark Elf for a short time, he was well aware that the Elf had a quick mind. Anarya's sweet song of the Lady of the Stars had stayed the shadows and brought a gleam of hope and light back to the group.

"Well, Master Elf, I suppose you have another one of your brilliant schemes planned?" Khelek teased lightly. "Or shall we ask our young maiden what to do?" Either Rudhchamion was crushed by the last sentence, or he was thinking of something to say.

[ September 13, 2002: Message edited by: GreatWarg ]

[Anarya SilverBranch]

Anarya smiled softly looking into the shadows. The song had given her strength and made her feel braver than before. Taraphiel had taken interest in the song. Maybe someday, when they weren't in such a precarious position, Anarya would teach it to her. She watched Khelek and Rudhchamion exchange thoughts as they first exited their hidden hole in the thrushwood.

"Now we must go on, we cannot rest here any longer," Ruhdchamion said as Anarya and Taraphiel came out into the open, "Perhaps the sun shall warm this place and our path."

"Perhaps," Khelek thought gloomily.

"We should keep in mind that those things are replused by the name of Elbereth," Anarya commented as they started down the road again, "It may help in the future."

[GreatWarg]

Khelek trotted beside Rudhchamion, alert and tense. This part of Mirkwood was guarded little by the Wood Elves, for they did not come so close to Barad-dur. Strange things lurked in the shadows, and the eyes peering out would startle the draug and quickly blink out if he growled slightly. Anarya followed. Light were her footsteps, and her bow was gripped in her hand. She was chanting softly still, driving away the evil things of the dark wood. Taralphiel kept close, shuddering slightly, but staying as quiet as she could. Phantom beasts and things unseen in the shadows went through the young maiden's mind.

"How do we plan on getting to Barad-dur, Master Elf?" Khelek asked, breaking the silence. A twig snapped, and the company twirled around.

"Sorry," Taralphiel mumbled.

"I have not planned so far," Rudhchamion answered, after the group had been going on for some while again. "Our original plan was to come unseen from the north way. But because of the Enemy's spies, we may have to go around. A way which he will most likely least expect."

Khelek paused and looked up at the tall, dark Elf. Alarm was in his posture. "You do not mean to take the road eastward?" the draug asked, eyes growing wide and pupils narrowing.

"The way will be least expected. We will wait until high noon, where his fell spies will be hiding from the face of the Sun. We will have to keep hidden during the day."

"You do not know what the Enemy expects." Khelek refused to say anything after that, and a drear silence fell over the company again as they marched closer to the dreaded fortress. All was quiet except for the chanting of Anarya.

After several hours and many miles, Rudhchamion began to look for a place to spend the night. It would be dangerous to be caught wandering around in the sheer darkness of Mirkwood under the pale Moon.

"The Moon will not rise for some hours yet," Khelek warned, ears perking at the slightest creak of a branch, the snap of a twig, the drip of dew, and the silent padding of some unknown beast.

Rudhchamion grunted, peering at the shadowy forms of barely seen trees. "The trunks of these trees will have to do for tonight. We must be silent, and light no fire, nor stir. I hope we shall not be found before the Sun shines again."

Taralphiel and Anarya retired to one large trunk of a tree. Its large roots twisted and snaked through the ground, and its highest branches constantly creaked. Khelek and Rudhchamion took the other one. The dirt inside the trees was dry at least, although the scent of termites and other assortments of insects was stiffling to the draug's nose.

"Pray we make it through this night," Khelek said grimly as he curled up tightly.

[ September 17, 2002: Message edited by: GreatWarg ]

[Thalionyulma]

Rûdhchamion was still as he stood watch. The dark elf had left the young wolf resting inside the large tree and positioned himself between the two trees, hiding among the gnarling roots. He was alert for any sound and movement that was not of the forest. His sharp elven hearing heard even the leaves that rustled in the evening breeze ever so slightly.

It was true that he had not planned getting this far… at least not with companions. He had planned on coming alone. He sighed inwardly. How did he get entangled with the Elvenking’s troubles? He had simply wanted revenge for the senseless killing of his people. The killings were so coincidental to the beginning of trouble in Greatwood, nay, it was Mirkwood now. For even he, whose people had never troubled themselves with their kinsman could not but suspect the connection to all of it. An evil and dark connection.

A faint sound from his right caused him to stir. He cast a glance at where the pup was resting, but decided to scout alone a few meters ahead. Taking his bow, he crept silently towards the noise.

”What is it Rûdhchamion?”

The dark elf was nearly startled off his wits by the white pup who had stirred noiselessly. Quietly! I heard something ahead. Stay- He was just about to tell Khelek to stay where he was when he felt the white wolf’s muzzle touch his palm. Oh nevermind, come with me if you want, but keep quiet.

The white wolf hesitated a second to look back where the maidens were, then followed the dark elf.

[ September 18, 2002: Message edited by: Thalionyulma ]

[Dark-Caranthir]

Mornovarion strode up and down his room, he was debating with the voice; "I don't think we should do anything, I should leave now, noone will notice."

"She will know, she will warn Thranduil, then all will be over, you will have failed... and the Lord knows what failure means."

"Well then, what do you suggest we do, oh wisest of the Wise?"
This comment got Mornovarion a jolt of pain.

"I suggest we kill her, then noone will know, you will be free to continue with your mission,"

"But, but then I would be a... kin-slayer," he spoke the word with loathing.

"You will be one soon anyway, so why not get it over with, go".

Mornovarion had noted that the elven-maiden's room was one floor above his, and two rooms to the left. He had followed her back to her room. Sticking his knife in his belt, he clambered out of the room, climbed onto the ivy, and set off.

[GreatWarg]

They Elf and the wolf drew closer to the strange noises, an unlikely hunting pair. A snuffling noise, followed by the heavy tread of feet could be heard. It sounded like some beast prowling about.

"Is there any beast in these dark woods that sounds like that?" Khelek inquired the dark Elf quietly. "It may just be passing by," he added hopefully, peering into the darkness. A lurking figure caught the Elf's keen eye.

"Yes, it is a beast, but I do not know what it is," he answered, crouching low against the ground, a hand gripping with wolf pup's ruff, the other hand clutching his sword. "It may just be passing us by, or it may be a spy of the Dark Lord." The two were silent for a moment. The creature seemed to have paused, and continued sniffing about. A splinter of wood suddenly echoed through the dim wood.

"What has happened?" Rudhchamion asked urgently.

"I - I think it has knocked over a tree," Khelek answered uncomfortably. He imagined a large beast with lethal claws, ripping wood into shreds.

Suddenly Rudhchamiom laughed gently. He stood up, unafraid and sheathed his sword.

"What are you doing?!" the draug hissed, frowning up at the Elf.

"It is a harmless beast, looking for insects to eat. Watch."

The Elf carefully stripped the bark away from a rotting tree, revealing millions of squirming grubs, and a few other species of insects could be seen. Gathering some of this on a stick, the Elf gave a shrill call. The snuffling stopped. A large beast, black with a small crest of white rumbled over, snuffling cautiously at the Elf's outstretched stick. It moved closer. Then finally approving, it stuck out a pink tongue, lapping the grubs and snorting contentedly.

"There is nothing to worry about, Khelek," Rudhchamion reassured, slowly starting to pat the animal's head. The beast began lapping up the grub from the tree, eating with relish.

"It is a simple beast, spending all of its time looking for insects and grub to eat." Khelek sat down, still watching with disgust as the squirmy white grub were being slowly eaten.

"It seems much better to eat meat from a deer," Khelek sniffled unapprovingly. Rudhchamion smiled and laughed gently.

[Taralphiel]

Taralphiel slept uneasily. Her mind was a torrent of foul things. She felt something drawing nearer to her, searching her out, but she could not place it. She sat up to notice that Khelek and Rudchamion were both gone. She looked out and felt the presence again. She could not breathe. She gently roused Anarya.

'What is the matter?' she asked
'They are gone. Rudchamion and Khelek' she whispered

Anarya stood up and loked around. She took her bow and looked at her

'Can you 'tell' anything?' she asked
'Well, there is something seeking us out. More than one thing. I do not no if its intentions are good or ill'

Anarya made her way carefully across the forest floor 'Well we had better find out then'

[Dark-Caranthir]

Mornovarion clambered through the elf's open window. He crept silently through the room.
This was the older woman's room, the other two must be in the room next door. He walked silently over to her bed. He placed his knife on her throat just enough to wake her up. Her eyes slowly opened, but there was no terror in them.
'She must have known I would try and kill her' thought Mornovarion.
"Who else knows? Who did you tell? Tell me or I'll cut your throat," Mornovarion asked threateningly, but the woman would say nothing.
Eventually Mornovarion cut her throat. Her eyes rolled back into her head. Mornovarion checked for a pulse, but there was none.
He began to weep as he realised what he had done, but the voice spoke; "Fool, now is not the time for crying, she won't have told anyone,apart from those girls, you'll need to kill them to,"
Crying, Mornovarion crept through into the other room where the two women were sleeping.
He decided speed was now more important, and quickly slashed both of their throats. They didn't give up life as easily as the older woman had though. The second one had screamed before he had chance to kill her.
The door creaked open, and the bartender looked in. "I heard noise an..." His eyes widened in shock. Mornovarion leapt towards him, dagger outstretched. The dagger caught the fat man square in the chest. Mornovarion pulled it out quickly, he would die soon enough, and clambered out the window and clambered down the side of the building.

[Anarya SilverBranch]

The air was thick with the scent of the pine trees, old and green with age. Anarya went forward through them, her bow and arrow ready. Taraphiel followed bradishing her knife, the blade glowing white in the cool night air.

The sudden sound of a stick breaking underfoot sent both into a frenzy of readying their weapons.

"Who is it?!" Anarya called out into the shadowed eaves.

"Not so loud!" Taraphiel whispered back harshly, "They might not be friendly."

It was too late though, someone had already heard them...

[GreatWarg]

Rudhchamion and Khelek both heard Anarya's shout, and the startled beast clambered away quickly enough. They both ran flat out back to where they had left the maidens. Bursting through the trees, the point of one of Anarya's arrows greeted them.

'Rudhchamion!' Anarya cried gratefully, lowering her bow. 'I thought you and Khelek were some beast.'

'There really was a beast, but it is gone now,' Khelek replied, tail swaying slightly. 'A bug-eater.'

'A bug-eater?!' Anarya echoed skeptically.

'A bug-eater?' Taralphiel asked, confused. 'How do you know it's a bug-eater?'

'Because Khelek told me.'

Taralphiel looked at the young wolf, who was now curling up on the spot. 'Khelek told you it was a bug-eater?'

'It is called osanwe, a form of talking between those with strong minds,' Rudhchamion explained. 'Many travellers and Dark Elves have the ability to communicate with animals in this way.'

'Nice way of putting it short and simple for a Mortal,' Khelek scoffed, grooming himself.

'You have big words for a pup,' Rudhchamion retorted.

'And you have big tempers for an Elf,' Khelek teased back, now looking at Rudhchamion.

'Would we rather be caught arguing by a spy of the Enemy, or would we rather be going to Dol Goldur?' Anarya interrupted. There was silence from both sides. 'Good. See you in the morning.'

[GreatWarg]

Khelek rested his head upon his paws. It was his watch, and the dawn was still an hour or so away. The forest was quite eerie at night. The flapping and whirring of bats wings was most unnerving, and the snuffling and grumbling of passing beasts just as. Some of the more rude beasts would growls and snarl at the draug, and the eyes peering forth from the gloom were everywhere. Khelek sometimes rose to growl at them, daring them to come a step closer. Most of the eyes blinked out, only to return again.

=============================

Gayahithlum stubbornly stepped right up to Daegon. 'You are going to fight Orcs. We are coming with you. Just because we are maidens does not mean we cannot fight.'

Daegon was slightly shocked at the maiden's response. So shocked, in fact, that he could only mutter a few words. Weren't maidens supposed to be quiet and polite?

'Then it's settled,' Sauche said eagerly. 'We're going in together!'

===========================

Mornovarion stealthily continued on his way through the dark woods, going southwards. Stopping for a little rest, he properly cleaned his blade against a leaf with large droplets of dew gathered. Wiping his blade against his cloak to dry it, Mornovarion resheathed the Orc blade and continued on.

[ September 23, 2002: Message edited by: GreatWarg ]

[Anarya SilverBranch]

Anarya looked out into the night shadowed forest from her perch. Next to her the mortal slumbered peacefully, a rare occurence for Taraphiel. The waning moon was riding high in the west. A sudden sound made the elf maid jump and stir at her place, her hand reaching for her bow. Eyes in the forest peered at her with emnity, an indignation she had not meant to stir. Anarya felt her heart beating against her ribs with fear. She felt ashamed all of the sudden.

She glaced over at the tree across the way. Khelek sat up upon his haunches on his branch, challenging the night. Taraphiel slept without terror of the dark all around to her. Rudhchamion sat in the tree with Khelek, cutting away at a piece of wood, looking up once in while with his grey eyes to peer into the trees. Everyone seemed completely at ease, or brave beyond measure, except for Anarya.

She selfconciously tucked a curl behind her ear and slid deeper into the little burrow of the branch. Taking a deep breath Anarya sat, waiting for dawn's herald to ring soon. Waiting, just waiting for morning light...

[Taralphiel]

Taralphiel slept soundly. No vile visions haunted her. She woke for a brief moment and looked around. The elves and Khelek were not sleeping. But they did not seem afraid. Anarya was still wary it seemed. But that was to be expected, she thought to herself.

She marvelled at how peaceful her sleep was. Something was calming her nerves, more so than before. She felt safe in the company of the elves, but now even her dreams were guarded. She knew they were nearing a place of great danger, but she was comforted. It almost puzzled her. Something good was coming. She felt it. She could only wait patiently for it to arrive...

[Dark-Caranthir]

Mornovarion sat down against a tree panting and weeping. He had got a hang of himself after several minutes, when suddenly he heard a voice, "Stand up", he froze suddenly, but felt a sharp prick on the back of his head. So he didn't disobey. He stood up slowly. "Now turn around" Mornovarion did so and was shocked to see an elven maiden with a bow drawn in his direction.

[Thalionyulma]

Rûdhchamion sat hidden among the large gnarling roots of the trees. He would glanced occasionally at Khelek as the young white wolf would growl back at the nocturnal beasts of the woods. The dark elf smiled inwardly, the pup would learn the way of the wilds well – he was very spirited, but still quite young.

The dark elf cursed himself once more for agreeing to have the elf maiden along. Now there was an addition to the group – Taralphiel the half-elven. And he doubted getting into the Hill of Sorcery would prove nothing less than perilous. He was tempted once again to continue alone, but that would endanger… his companions.

His thoughts wandered to the task ahead. What he had heard earlier was not just the sound of the badger that was scavenging for food. It seemed to have been an unnatural beating against the wind. It had been but an instant, and then no more.

Towards morning, before the sun started to peek from the horizon, he had left them silently to forage alone for food. The solace helped him with his thoughts. As he returned he found the young wolf yawning then looking at him questioningly. The young maidens were stirring as well. He began to prepare their small fare of nuts, fruits and berries, and several fishes he had caught in a nearby stream.

“We best start early. We cannot use the straight road to Dol Guldur,” the dark elf began to explain his plan. They would follow a trail he had marked that would keep them hidden. It would be a slow trek, but caution was needed. He had detected orc and warg tracks several days old, going both south and north of Greenwood. Human tracks were from the east, and it looked to be even older.

“Are you certain of the tracks?” Anarya asked worried. North would mean towards Thranduil’s kingdom, towards home.

The dark elf guessed her worry and nodded grimly.

After finishing their morning meal, they headed towards the trail Rûdhchamion had marked.

[Thalionyulma]

The sky overhead was thick with dark clouds, it hid the stars that would have been shining bright and blunting even the bright rays of the moon. The air was had a foul hint of evil, as swirls of faint mist seem to crawl out from the very ground. An eerie howl could be heard followed by the baying of wolves as if in answer.

A large black shaped figure flew above the treetops, as silent as the evening wind, leaving a cold chill to those that was touched by its shadow. Enormous bat-like wings spread wide as it continued on towards its goal. A company of bats followed along in a frenzy, their squeaking sound heralding the one whom they followed.

The smaller orcs from the camp looked up, pointing towards the incoming creatures. Wázrárz came out from his tent as he heard the sound of wings. And a few moments later the winged shadow melted into a human-like form. Clearly a female form that sneered coldly at the orc captain. The large orc was not moved, though the smaller orcs of his battalion were clearly disturbed by the female’s presence.

“It took you long enough to return,” Wázrárz growled in greeting as he glowered at the vampire.

Her cold and empty laughter filled the air.

[Gayahithwen]

Gayahithwen caught up with Daegon, and by the sound of it, the others was doing allright as well.

"What are you going to do? One elf can't outrule those orcs, you know that!"

Inside, Daegon didn't know if he should smile or cry. This elfmaiden was actually buying his story! He didn't know about the other two - he had a feeling that the guard wasn't trusting him, but at least they followed him and that was all he needed for now. On the outside, he had seemingly calmed down and gained controll over himself again, in a way that ought to convince the maiden that he had lost all controll over himself and was just about to start thinking about what to do. He turned his head towards her.

"Well, I don't know. I.. I have you and the other girl.. and the guard with me, haven't I? But.. well, they wasn't SO many.. and four smart elves would probably utrule them... I hope."

***

The had run quite a bit now and even though they had slowed down the tempo a bit, they was still moving fast. Judging by it, Daegon thought, they would probably encounter the orcs pretty soon. In the same moment, Gaya stopped.

"Look over there" she whispered. "That has got to be the orcs camp, right?"

Daegon nodded towards her and smiled on the inside. Soon, sister of mine, you are going to become free! Even though I hate myself for doing this, I hope you won't hate me too much.. Struggling with himself, he closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them again.

"Yes. That has got to be it."

[Thalionyulma]

The orc captain frowned at the new arrival. Though he knew of Murú’s reputation, the vampire was also known for her cruelity – to both her enemies and allies. Her cold smile and piercing stare bore into him, and he felt her contempt. It mattered not much to him, the Dark Lord’s command was clear.

“Well?” Wázrárz inquired, if a bit impatiently.

“The pawns have been planted. Though the failure of the humans were known, and expected. The elf whom we released has reached Thranduil’s realm. Or shall we say elves?” Murú smiled mockingly at the large orc. His size did little to daunt her, she had after all been under the servitude of the Dark Lord’s Master at the time when any of these meager creatures even existed. “My pets have reported strange occurrences in the woods. I’ve added more patrols to the skies… they will be revealed eventually.”

The orc grunted, unmoved by her haughtiness. He had been angered by Micanar’s failure to return with the information he had needed. Though Wázrárz did not entirely believe that the human was actually dead. The easterly was very resourceful, he added grudgingly. The orc knew a small group was around the eastern eaves, though not towards what direction it was heading to.

“Will they do as they were bent into doing?” He said referring to the enslaved elves.

“Do you doubt my… abilities? The first was a mere weakling when he was released… in mind and spirit. Besides the other whom we could not completely enthrall was made to think that his sister still existed – though in a way she still does,” she chuckled softly. “ With that sort of inspiration, how can our plans fail?”

A rumbling, throaty chuckle too came from the orc. He could not help but delight in some of the vampire’s game with the slaves.

“Alive… but to what extent?”

[Taralphiel]

Taralphiel followed the group as they headed along the path. It was now leading them further into evil and danger. Secretly, Taralphiel wished she could turn back and see the place her mother had talked of for so long,the elven lands, but knew that that was dangerous for a mortal.

She watched Rudchamion and tried to sort the feeling that were moving in her. She sensed that overwhealming burden on his shoulders again, something carefully concealed. In Anarya she felt concern for him.

Taralphiel looked down at Khelek and thought 'Can he really tell my thoughts?'. She was surprised when he turned and looked at her with a desire to speak, or so it seemed to her. She smiled and said to him 'thankyou for watching out for me' then continued along the path.

[ December 04, 2002: Message edited by: Taralphiel ]

[Dark-Caranthir]

"Declare yourself, who are you and what buisness do you have in Thranduil's realm?" asked the elf, cautiously.
Mornovarion decided that he would have to fight and at least try and escape, if he was captured the voice would torment him forever. Silently drawing the orcish dagger, he spoke, "I am Mornovarion, and I come seeking sanctuary, I had heard that the elves of Greenwood had more manners towards strangers,". He smiled but could soon tell that his ruse had failed, by the look on the elf's face.
He didn't want to hurt any more innocents but he would have to do this, placing the blade about the elf's stomach he stabbed it in just enough so that it pierced her cloak and no more. He spoke freely now, " If you loose your arrow I shall stab you ere I fall, so we shall both die. Now, take me to the halls of King Thranduil, or I shall be forced to kill you..."
The elf however did not flinch, on the contrary, her face hardened as she spoke again,"I would not be the one to speak of manners, stranger. And if you truly believe that I am daunted by your knife point, then I pity you, for you are more foolish than you appear. I would sooner shoot you and die myself than bring you before King Thraduil unbound and carrying a weapon. Put down your knife, and you will live to kneel before the throne of the King of the Green Wood. If not, then you shall receive judgement from my bow. So choose, and choose wisely. And keep this in mind: My arrow is crafted by Anarya, finest crafter of arrows in all of Middle-earth. We shall see which weapon hits home first. The choice is yours, but choose swiftly, or I shall choose for you."
Mornovarion decided that if he could get into Thranduil's realm hewould have a much better chance of succeeding in his mission. "Do not hurt me, for I was daunted by your bow and I would dearly like to meet this Anyara of whom you speak with such high-regard". He said trying hard to look pathetic and wretched which wasn't all that hard.
He knelt down to put his knife on the ground, stood up on again and stood expectantly waiting for the elf to tell him what to do.
The elf's expression did not betray any emotion, but she spoke again, "You have chosen wisely,", but as she was motioning for him to stand up, there was a rustling from the bushes behind her...