The Shadows of Umbra RPG

[Elenna]

This is the actual role playing thread for Ainabeleth of Lothlorien's RPG, the Shadows of Umbra. Please ask her permission to join by posting in the discussion thread before posting here. Follow all of the Freestyle RPG Room rules, and have a good time!

--Elenna

A tall, injured, Elf rode fast down a road leaving a cloud of dust trailing behind her. She had a stern look on her fair face and her hair was dirty matted. Blood ran down her cheek and her knuckles were white. She approached a large wooden gate, leading to the city of the Wood Elves. The gates creaked open for her and left puzzled guards scratching their heads as to who she was and why she was in such a hurry.
Nearby elves stood and watched as she went galloping to the King's palace. A tall blonde haired man stepped in her way.
"Away you fool, I stop for no one!" she called.
"Stop this horse immediately." he commmanded with a stern voice and stubbornly kept his position.
She pulled the reigns and the horse came to an abrupt stop right in front of the nobley dressed elf. The leather saddle strained and the woman slid down off of the saddle. The horse sighed into the mans face and he gave a sour look and stepped to the side. His lips parted ready to speak but she said,"What business do you have stopping me on my own personal business."
"I am the king of this forest and you are disturbing the peace," He said
mocking her rudeness, " Where is it you come from and why are you in such
haste?"

Ainabeleth, noticing her mistake in talking to him in such a way, bows and says," I am Ainabeleth Quelleur of Lothlorien and I...was in search of my brother
who disappeared into the Grey mountains 2 months ago. Please excuse my appearance, I had a small battle with a warg and I lost my direction. I believe this is the city of the wood elves...am I mistaken?"
"No you are not mistaken my lady. This is the city of the wood elves and you are tired and injured from your journey. Please come to my palace and my servants will clean you up and give you boarding for the night."
"Oh thankyou ma' lord. I am lucky to be in the hands of such a fine King." The king led Belle, as she liked to be called, to the great oak door of his home. She stepped onto the oak floors and gazed about in wonder at the amazing carpentry and the intricate corbals and mantels. The king gave a light whistle and servants scampered out into the great hall. He whispered to them and they looked up and smiled at Belle.

[Amanaduial the archer]

"Tallin! A stranger comes along this path! On horseback!"

Tallin Wolfsoul looked up from a small scroll she was studying as Jet came bounding towards the tall oak in which she sat. His muscles bunched under his thick black fur as he leapt into the tree beside her and the branch she was on rocked slightly.

"Woah! Jet, calm down- its a good thing this is a strong tree!" the elf replied to the wolf in her usual voice as his mind voice reached her head. "Its not like you to get excited over one stranger-"

"Not one stranger! Oropher is coming this way as well! With several other elves- they will meet about here." A female wolf had appeared beneath them silently; Obsidian, otherwise known as Dia. Jet leapt down and rubbed muzzled with his mate. With a sigh Tallin rolled up the scroll she had been reading and glared at them.
"And why does this bother me?" She demanded grumpily. The wolves exchanged a 'look' before Dia spoke.

"Well Tallin, we know how you love news of Oropher's cub... Dia said slyly before jumping out of reach of the elfs hand.

"Oh, what are you like you two!" Tallins tanned face flushed red though and she was glad the wolves couldnt read elven and human expressions. She glared at the wolves for a moment more, but as ever she couldnt match their hard yellow gazes. Inclining her head slightly she signalled for the two wolves to jump up beside her as she heard the sound of hooves approaching from both ends of the path.

She watched the stranger exchange words with Oropher, taking in the strangers ragged, injured appearance. Warg inflicted injuries. No way would the doctors at the palace be able to deal with them- later on someone would come looking for the "Wolf-woman." Still, she might as well make their job a bit easier and go to them- she was curious about this womans story. As the group on horseback set off at a more sedate pace, Tallin and her wolves followed, melding into the shadows with expertise borne of long experience.

[ November 03, 2002: Message edited by: Amanaduial the archer ]

[ August 18, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[VanimaEdhel]

"Hwestlaeriel! Sell nîn! Telo! (My daughter! Come!)" Fileglinniel yelled into the woods to Hwestlaeriel.

"I am coming, Mother!" Hwestlaeriel called back. She swung down from the tree and sprinted through the woods. She was, at the moment barefoot. The cool, moist earth felt good on her feet.

The mid-size cabin loomed up in front of her. Her mother was standing at the door.

"Hwestlaeriel!" Fileglinniel said, scoldingly, "You know that I need you here with me."

"Yes, naneth nîn (my mother)," Hwestlaeriel said.

"Well," Fileglinniel sighed, "Will you get started on dinner? I have other things to attend to."

"Yes, naneth," Hwestlaeriel said, sighing.

Fileglinniel held her daughter's chin, a comedic scene, as her daughter was about two inches taller than she, and looked into her eyes.

"Mel nîn (My love)," Fileglinniel said, softly, "One day you will leave. Your ernil (prince) will come and carry you away on his bright, shining horse."

"I do not ask for a prince, naneth," Hwestlaeriel sighed, "I just want a way out of here!"

"And you will find it, my beloved," Fileglinniel said, gently standing on her toes and kissing Hwestlaeriel. The beautiful Elfwife then bustled off, going about her business.

"Ai! If only it were that easy," Hwestlaeriel sighed to herself. She went over to the fire and began to prepare a dinner for her family.

"Ai, Dantilaision a Berethion, man garin si (Alas, Dantilaision and Berethion, who do I have now)?" Hwestlaeriel murmered to herself.

[ColletteTook]

T'was early eve as Faryn bustled about the halls, lighting the oil lanterns upon their silver brackets in all their glory and splendor as their carvings threw shadows upon the walls.
She was but a servant within these fair walls, working honestly in hopes of earning merit. She hoped in vain.
As she lit the last lantern upon the third hall, the King himself was escorting a ragged visitor down the hall.
Faryn automatically lowered her eyes to the floor. "Fiona!" he called at her, not knowing or caring or the servants' real name. "Please kindly escort Mistress Queller to a hot bath and comfortable room"
"Yes ma' lord" she said meekly, beckoning the decrepet-looking girl behind her.
The winding hall led to a room that was decored Crimson and Silver. "I shall send a medic for you Miss" she murmured before drawing her hot water in a gargantuan silver basin.
She started towards the door, but her curiosity over powered her. "Who are you?" was all she could ask.
Belle gave her a queer look before answering back just as curiously "I am tired, i am hungry and I am also dirty, pleased to meet you Fiona"
"Faryn" she said, and then disgracefully bit back her prideful tongue, and scuttered out of the room to summon an herbalist for the queer guest.

[Amanaduial the archer]

"Faryn."
Tallin heard the servant girl correct the stranger and smiled; she knew Faryn and knew of her irritation with the King getting it wrong all the time, let alone others being introduced to her by the wrong name.
"I mean...its Faryn ma'am." Faryn corrected herself quickly, realising she may have spoken too sharply to Oropher's guest. "Ill just go and get the healer..." She backed out of the door and jumped as she heard Tallins voice.
"No need." The elf smiled as Faryn whirled around wide eyed to see her leaning against a pillar as if shed always been there.
"How did you...Oh never mind." Like most of the inhabitants of the palace Faryn knew of the wolfwomans strange ways. "Will you-"
"Of course."
"She has-"
"Warg wounds. I know." Smiling at the servants bemused look Tallin walked into the room, her woles closely behind her.
As they got into the elegant and spacious guest room, Tallin nodded towards the curtains, already cast in shadow, providing a good hiding place for the dark wolves.
"Oh, Tallin-"
"Im sorry Dia. Shes been hurt in a fight with a warg; I dont think shell be all too comfortable with wolves." Tallin cut off her friend and the pair slunk into the shadows.
The healer heard the bath running and decided it would be easier to look at the strangers wounds when they were cleaner. Settling herself in a chair near the bathroom door, she settled down to wait.

[ August 18, 2003: Message edited by: Amanaduial the archer ]

Belle sat in her new beautiful room and admired the stone carvings and wood crown molding. The gause dressings on her wounds made them itch, but the down comforter on the bed made her feel much better. She thought about the servant that had helped her, was Faryn her name? Well, it didn't matter, she thought about the way the girl had cringed and shyed away like a dog. (OOC no offense). It would be quite funny to see her go on an adventure and facing orcs, goblins, wargs, or whatever unknown creature that lived in the world. Belle fell asleep thinking and staring out at the moon and stars.
Belle awoke to whispering outside her room, she slipped out of the co ers and tiptoed across the smooth wood floors andacross the tightly woven rug and put her eyes to the keyhole and saw the servant, Faryn, speaking with one of the others.
"Do you think the woman will survive?"
"I don't know, but what I do know is that she will need much more help than we can offer, her wounds go deep."
"I know an elf who lives in the forest who could be of great help because of her knowledge of herbs and other medicines."
"Please, get her quickly, the kings foil won't last long."
"I will"

And with that, the two separated. Faryn started for Belle's door and Belle limped back to be and pretended to sleep. The servant entered the room and set a breakfast tray on the nightstand and started for the door again. Belle sat up, stretched, and yawned and said," What time is it?"
Faryn looked up and smiled a weak smile,"I believe it is 8 o'clock miss."

[Amanaduial the archer]

OCC: Youve kinda contradicted my post there Belle!

"8 O clock? My my, what a time for someone on such a mission to wake up."

The droll voice of Tallin made both of the others jump. The elf stepped out of the shadows, hoping Belle didnt see the wolves moving there.

"Who is this stranger?" Belle asked Faryn suspiciously- with reason Tallin supposed, as she had just melted from the corners of the room. Well, climbed in the window anyway. Same thing really...

"Tallin Wolfsoul, healer and strange wood woman who no doubt goes around eating children. Isnt that right Faryn?" The servant smiled but Belle looked perplexed but Tallin carried on. "And you are Ainabelleth Queller, from the Golden Wood. Am I right?" She smiled slyly as she sat down.

In a flash Belle was on her feet, her sword, whihc had been lying on the table in her hand with the blade hovering near Tallins throat, her look changing from perplexed to suspicious. The healer stared steadily back at her until a low growl emmitted from the corner. The woman looked up sharply then winced and sat down on the bed, holding her shoulder. Tallin saw the blood seeping through the elegant nightshirt and was by her side quickly.

"The quick movement has set the wound bleeding again." She said quietly to Belle, inspecting her shoulder. Another growl came from the corner and Tallin looked around sharply. "Jet!"

She turned back to Belle, who was wearing a perplexed look.
"I will tell you later, I need to dress these wounds n-" She started; she wasnt reay to introduce a woman badly hurt from a warg fight to pair of adult wolves, but the other elf interrupted.

"No! Whatever is in that corner is not human or elf and I fear it means harm. Show yourself!" The shadows stirred as the wolves started to come forward but stopped when Tallin glared at them, speaking furiously in mind to them. "Well Thankyou very much. I told you to remain hidden!"

"She was holding a sword to your throat."

"What sort of demons are they? Or are they...I hear there are wargs near here!" Belle exlaimed, starting to panic, reaching for her sword again. Tallin looked dead at the elf. "Youre sure you want to see them?"

"Yes!"

The healer sighed impatiently. "This is sooo not a good idea." She muttered. "Alright...Ainabelleth of Lothlorien, let me introduce to you Jet and Obsidian Lunia of Mirkwood."

The two wolves padded silently out of the shadows into full view of the others in the room. Belles eyes widened...

ooc: oh sorry hehe i didnt see your post i was going to fast.

Belle's eyes widened. The wolves walked slowly to Tallin and sat by her side. Belle, realizing the animals' obedience, giggled to herself because she was so frightened. Belle sat down on the oak chest that lay at the foot of her bed and turned her arm to Tallin, silently signaling for Tallin to redress her wounds. Tallin sat petting her pets. "Cough cough" Belle said half jokingly. Tallin broke out of her trance and smiled but secretly laughed at Belle's arrogance.


ooc: Belle isnt really arrogant or stuck up, she is just a little spoiled from her recent help

[ColletteTook]

Faryn was seen puttering about the room later that evening, anally straightening and dusting things she had alrady dusted or straightened thrice ( three times ) before.
Miss Belle (As she had come to call her) sat amoungst her silken,fluffed (doubly by Faryn),pillows like a savage queen of the wilds , watching her doings with folded hands and a smirk.

CRASH!

"Rat Droppings!" Faryn cursed aloud,sweeping down to pick up the shards of prissed, painted porcelian that was once a tea cup full of scalding tea. Faryn was lost in her thoughts and had aimlessly grabbed the tray from out side the hall (with her elbow).
To her suprise, "Miss Belle" began to laugh aloud as she had neve done before. "On an adventure!" She laughed, clapping her hands.
Faryn had no idea what this outburst meant, but was sure it was some jest about herself. She straightened up, face red with humiliation but never the less, prideful and patronizing all the same. She quited at last, seeing as how the timid maiden's feelings had been burned for little or no reason of her knowing.
She finished cleaning up the tea mess and brought back a fresh cup, her usual meek but warm smile replaced with a frown that was not of her airy-fairy self.

[ November 05, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[VanimaEdhel]

Later that evening, Hwestlaeriel stood in front of her looking glass. She carefully untied her hair and let it flow down. It now reached just below her backside. She combed it out for a bit. The dusty blonde of her hair was nearly the same color of her skin.

She quickly slipped out of her gown and put on a robe. She licked her fingers and put out each lit candle in her room. She slipped through the cottage and out into the night.

She stood briefly under the stars, looking up. The stars glittered above her.

"Daemithroch!" Hwestlaeriel hissed into the night. A gentle clatter of hooves could be heard, then the misty-grey colored horse could be seen emerging from the night.

Hwestlaeriel carefully slipped up on top of Daemithroch. The horse cantered quietly into the dark. Trees slipped past Hwestlaeriel as she moved deeper into the woods.

Suddenly, the trees ended. Daemithroch stood still as Hwestlaeriel slipped off of him. She had reached her pond. It was only about twenty yards in diameter and, at deepest, was about seven feet. The moonlight glimmered on the water.

Hwestlaeriel slipped out of her robe and quietly climbed into the water.

**********

Hwestlaeriel swam for about an hour. She knew that her parents would probably look in her room at any moment to see how she was. She quickly climbed out, slipped back into her robe, and mounted Daemithroch. They silently cantered back to the cottage.

Hwestlaeriel dismounted. Dameithroch briefly nuzzled her, then trotted into the night. Hwestlaeriel slipped into the cottage and moved into her room.

She put her robe away and climbed silently into bed. She rested in the Elvish manner, with her eyes open, and let her thoughts drift.

Her mind drifted to fields and castles, heroes and maidens, romance and tragedy, and all other adventures that she had never experienced. She silently cursed that she had never been out of the forest or even more than a few miles away from her cottage.

She sighed and went back to her thoughts, allowing them to quench her desires for heroism for at least one more night...

[Amanaduial the archer]

The wolves sat at Tallins side, watching Belle curiously. The woman had given a small laugh when she saw them go directly to the healers side- strange.
"I thought you said she would be scared. That was why we were skulking in the shadows." Dias voice came reproachfully to Tallins mind.
"I know. Im sorry Dia, and Jet. Shes strange, even for an elf..." She looked up as the elf coughed jokingly and smiled as she returned to the world outside of her mind. Getting up she left the two wolves sitting by the chair. Jet looked around furtively then jumped onto the comfortable chair, but Dia remained in a sulk, watching the elf theyd know forever.
"We're true wolves. We dont skulk."
"Usually." Jet broke in, grinning. Dia turned her head and glared at him then commenced watching Belle.
"Shes a strange two legger. Almost arrogant, almost scared, almost violent...strange."
"Tallin trusts her Dee." He leant down, rubbing her muzzle with his own and she returned the gesture to her mate. "And you trust her dont you?"
"Of course Jet." She stood, watching the elves talk and laugh together. She sniffed and her ears perked up. She had smelt the lingering smell of the kitchens that floated around Faryn. Slyly she looked at her mate. Jet grinned again and nodded; the pair followed the servant to the kitchen, invisible almost in the shadows as she got a new cup.

[Brinniel]

In a small village outside of Mirkwood, there was a tavern. The tavern was quite ordinary. It was not large, but neither was it small. The tavern was not old, yet it had stood for many years. Business was slow that night, but the stormy weather was not the cause.
In the corner of the tavern, sat a dark, cloaked figure. The small figure did not appear intimidating, yet all avoided it. Slender hands held a pipe, which the cloaked figure smoked. This mysterious person sat there, as if waiting for something.

Several minutes later, a man dared to approach the figure. Though he was quite drunk, as he could not walk in a straight line, he seemed unusually focused and rather furious. He did not stop until he was ten feet from the figure. The figure leaned back, its arms crossed, showing no fear of this man.
"Take off your hood, fool," the man said. "And let me speak with you."
The figure stood up and pulled off its hood, revealing a woman. The woman was not beautiful, nor was she ugly. She had long fiery red hair, that would stand out for miles. Her skin was rough and tanned from spending many years in the sun. Her eyes were a brilliant green, but were also cold and piercing.
The woman, Raye she was called, gave the man a smirk and responded to his words, asking," And what is it you would like to speak to me about?"
"You know what I have to say," the man growled. "You cheated me on that last game of darts. I want my money back."

At this point, several of the others in the tavern had just begun noticing the man's confrontation with Raye. Many fled the building, afraid to see what was to happen to the man. Others sat in their seats, huddled together, speaking in soft whispers.

Raye paid no heed to the others, though. Her focus remained on the man.
"Oh, what a shame," she said, unmeaningfully. "If you had only told me that before I spent all your money for myself." Raye pulled out her dagger. The drunk man, whom Raye considered helpless, did not see the dagger which Raye concealed behind her back.
"But then again," she continued. "I suppose we could have a rematch. If you win, you get the remainder of my money and if I win, I get nothing." Raye began to walk towards the drunken fool. "You would like that, wouldn't you?" Raye and the man stood face to face, separated by only a few inches of air.
The man nodded, no longer furious with the young woman. "I would like that very much," he said.
Raye could see that the fool was completely ignorant of her lies and did not realize his fate. This satisfied Raye. This man would go down without a fight.
"Unfortunately," she told the man. "I don't do rematches with anyone." She thrusted the dagger into the man's stomach.
The man doubled over in pain, but Raye did not release the dagger. "Perhaps you will remember that next time you come across me."
The man was turning rather pale, but still he nodded.
"Good," Raye, said pulling the dagger from the man's stomach, using it to slice his throat. The man fell to the ground.
An easy kill she thought, staring a the dead man. By far the easiest yet.
She picked up her belongings and headed out of the tavern. The others who remained in the tavern cowered as she strode past them.

Outside of the tavern, Raye stood in the dark, rainy night pondering. For half her life, she had spent her days doing exactly what she had done moments ago. To her, killing was amusing and it did not do much harm, as the men she killed were nothing but drunken fools. But the fun was starting to wear off. Raye began to wonder if she could do something more with her life. She turned to her right, facing the path to Mirkwood.
Raye did not like people. But she knew that she couldn't spend the rest of her life avoiding them. If she had to communicate civily with anyone, it would be with the elves. At least the elves were smart and not so ignorant as the men. Raye did not want to go to Mirkwood, yet something told her that it was the right path to go. She shook her head, muttering nonsense to herself. And without further hesitation, Raye began to walk towards Mirkwood, unwillingly.

[dragoneyes]

A young woman sat in the corner of the tavern, she was one of the few who had stayed, her cloak was drawn around her and her hood was up, all that could be seen of her was her dark green eyes, highlighted by the burning fire. She looked at the body in disgust, she had seen people die before, but she had never seen anyone be killed. She walked outside and saw a shadow of a woman dissapear down the road towrds mirkwood, "You don't want to go down there young miss," said a loud voice behind her, Arrelle jumped and turned, the bartender, quite a large man, wearing a dirty apron, was standing right infront of her with a worried look on his face, "That's not the first person she's killed y'know, it's like a hobby o' hers." It was as though he had read her mind, she had been thinking of going and following the other lady, but now she wasn't so sure. She lowered her hood, letting her dark brown hair fall about her shoulders, she smiled "I wish to see the elves anyway, I was on my way there, when I stopped here."
"Elves? They're strange folk too y'know, don't live in the best places neither, Mirkwood is no place for a well-spoken young lady like yourself."
"You may have dissuaded me from following that person, but you cannot stop me from going into Mirkwood."
"As you wish miss. Now, if I may say so, night isn't the best time for goin' into Mirkwood."
"Very well, I will stay the rest of the night here. I'll leave at sunrise mind you."
"Very good, miss. I'll take you to your room now." He led her to her room and she handed the money over, the bar-man left and shut the door behind him. Arrelle took off her cloak, and lay on the bed thinking of her home back in Gondor.

[Amanaduial the archer]

"So your brother just...vanished?"

Tallin had been listening with rapture to Belles story. However she was beginning to see a few snags. Belle propped herself on an elbow on the bed, looking down at the other elf leaning against one of the bed legs with her legs crossed. Tallin shifted her position.

"You intend to go looking for your brother?"
Nod.
"In the grey mountains?"
Pause. Nod.
"And this is the bit that really gets me...you intend to go alone?"
Pause. Then Belle sighed.

"What else can I do? I must find my brother."

"Ever wonder why he went missing? Maybe he just settled down or something but other things inhabit those regions and those surrounding it."

"Things? Like what?" Belle was curious. Tallin frowned, closing her eyes. She had never been that far from Mirkwood, but the memories of the wolves work differently from those of men and elves. They had not at first trusted her; their memories pass on the tales and trusts of old generations and they knew of elves, but did not hold so much fear of the mirkwood elves as of others. Dark elves. She remembered the visions, the pictures, the tales Jet and Dia had told her.

Tallin did not tell this to Belle. "There are...there are others who live there." she said carefully. "I fear you would not stand a chance of passing through alone."

Belle remained silent, apparently thinking. Tallin grinned and looked up at her. "I really let myself into this one, didnt I?" She said sardonically. The other swung her legs down so she could look Tallin in the face properly. She stared at her for a moment uncertainly.

"You seriously mean..." She started quietly, continuing to stare at Tallin. The other held her gaze steadily, a small half smile on her face. Then she broke into a grin. "Really?"
Nod.
"Oh Tallin, thankyou so much!" Then she paused. "Will..." She stopped.

"What? Will the wolves be coming? Well of course. They are, in a way, my only family."

Belle looked up sharply. "Can you read my mind?"

"I am not reading your mind!" Tallin laughed. The other didnt seem to notice she hadnt directly answered her question. "However, methinks you still need a little more help than one elf and her wolves. Even though we are pretty fantastic." She added, grinning.

[ColletteTook]

Faryn poked her head around the door, from where she had been listening to the rolling mornful voice of Miss Belle tell her story.
she bustled with an aire of obliviousness, behind the clean linens that obscured her entire upper body, looking as though she were a floating heap of laundry.
Her face went slack and pensive as she silently let her nimble, skinny fingers toss old linen in a heap and spread the new, hands trembling in utter excitement.
The mere prospect of adventure, why- who wouldnt be excited.
Keep to you work Faryn, lass, Miss Belle's buisness is not our place she thought to herself, and re-fluffed the pillows (Again!).
Or is it? Tallin can take care of herself, but Miss Belle needs a bit of looking after so she doesnt hurt herself. Just may be our buisness.her head thought back at her.
Belle and Tallin witnessed the young maid's internal struggle quitley smirking at eachother, and fighting laughter.
Oh I'd dearly love to go if they would have me! Yet I fear that if I would ask they'd laugh at me, and my heart wont stand that she decided glumly, and folded over two quilts at the bottom of the bed.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Or is it? Tallin can take care of herself, but Miss Belle needs a bit of looking after so she doesnt hurt herself. Just may be our buisness.

Tallin sent the mind message as if it was one of Faryns own thoughts. She knew she probably shouldnt do it, but they needed all the help they could get.

Faryns forehead wrinkled slightly as she fought her inner battle 'with herself'. She didnt probe though, but winked at Belle, and began to speak loudly.

"Well, twould certainly be a quest for one noble and loyal."

"Indeed." After a pause Belle had caught on. "Though not only warriors can be of help. Kindness and other talents are also important."

Tallin stole a look at Faryn and tried not to grin. The servant had gone completly still, still bowed over the knots she was undoing, but her fingers werent moving. Tallin sighed elaboratly.

"And your brother lost in the Grey mountains. And not help can come to him except his own sister." She sighed again. "Its a pity we'll never be able to go."


"Oh no, why!?" Faryn burst out then gasped and covered her mouth. Belle spun around, a broad grin spread across her face as she started to laugh in delight. A small smile spread across Tallins lips as well as she stood in a fluid movement and stepped closer to Faryn.

"We do not have enough people; two elves, even with Jet and Dia, are not enough to go to the grey mountains. Every other person would help though...?" She tilted her head to one side inquiringly, a habit she picked up from the wolves, wating for Faryns answer...

[ColletteTook]

Faryn set down the sheets ungracefully and a new emotion washed over her as she heardd herself speak words she never dreamed would eminate from her lips.
"Take me with you! I will help if i can! I promise! On my honor, I promise!" and right then she bound herself to Miss Belle.
Belle smiled graciously and nodded a slight bow, and Tallin stood, hands on her hips in a heroic positon, knee deep in wolves.
"May I travel with you to find your brother?" she asked quietly then.
"We need al the help we can get"
Faryn tryed to express her uttermost emotions, but found she could not find the words, save few undiscernable elvish mutterings and a burst of tears and an "Oh Thank-" but was cut off in sobs for near no reason.
She nodded, wiping her tears "I shall finish my work, and relieve myself of duties tonight, at your leave Miss Belle" and bowed proudly.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Tallin stared after the door where Faryn had just marched proudly out for a moment. Then she gave a long low whistle.

"Well, Miss Quelluer, if we can get that reaction from a few more people, we're well on the road to the mountains!"

[dragoneyes]

Arrelle slept peacefully in her bed, it was very soft and hard to get out of, yet she had to, already the light of day was starting to peep over the horizon. Quikly she got up and dressed, packing everything away neatly. She went downstairs to the bar where alerady the bar-man was waiting.
"Hello," he said "Your horse is ready and waiting for you, but before you go, there is some freshly cooked bread here for your breakfast." He presented before her a plate of sliced bread, the aroma was delicious.
"Thankyou." said Arrelle graciously taking all of the bread, she ate one slice then wrapped the rest up and put it in her bag. She turned and walked out the door,
"Good luck!" said the bar-man Arrelle smiled and went round the back of the tavern and there was her horse, a piebald mare, tied up outside patiently waiting.
"Hello Lorran, how are you today?" said Arrelle stroking her horses smooth fur.
"We're travelling again today I'm afraid." she said, Lorran snorted in protest but let Arrelle climb on all the same,
"Come on then." she said gently urging her horse on, Lorran walked on, then broke out into a trot, up the road towards Mirkwood.

[VanimaEdhel]

Light streamed through the windows. Hwestlaeriel looked at the little windows and slid out of bed. She quietly got her robe on and went into the kitchen.

Suddenly, two hands came, easily lifting her up by her waist. She shrieked and struck at her "attacker".

"Daro (Stop)!" came the familiar voice, letting go, "It is all right! I am sorry! Calm yourself!"

Hwestlaeriel shrieked, turning around, "BERETHION!"

She jumped on the tall, handsome Elf, giving him a big hug.

"Muindor (brother)! You have returned!"

"Of course I have, Hwesta," Berethion said.

"But, where is Dantilaision?" she asked, looking around.

"You know him. He is on his own."

"You left him?" Hwestlaeriel asked, accusingly.

"No, it was the other way around, little sister, I assure you," Berethion said, the tall Elf smiling down at her. He was an even 6'7" while Dantilaision was 6'5". They both were as fair as their sister and had similar features, reflecting those of their parents.

"When will you leave again?" Hwestlaeriel asked.

"As soon as I may," Berethion said, grabbing some cheese from the table and preparing to eat it. Hwestlaeriel slapped his hand, "Ai! Why did you do that?"

"You know you have to wait for our parents!" she said, a gleam in her eye.

"Yes, yes, I know," he said, smiling. He continued, though he already knew what the response would be, "So, what do you propose we do?"

"I know not," she said, the gleam in her eye. Next thing he knew, she had pulled the dagger from where it was always tied to her thigh and it was pressed against his throat, "What do you think?"

In a flash, he easily pushed her not-too-strong arm down, and tackled her, pushing her out the door. She landed hard on her back, laughing.

"Now, little sister, we all know I am stronger than you, so, will you give up now?" Berethion knew the answer would be negative.

"But I am swifter, dear brother," she said. She brought her knee swiftly up into his stomach, causing him to roll off, and she rose to her feet. She ran through the forest, laughing. She heard him running behind her, laughing as well...

[dragoneyes]

Arrelle stood infront of the forest, it looked very forboding, she was much more of an open meadow person. Lorran walked on into the forest, at first it was dark, the trees and weeds battled for sunlight and nothing on the ground lived, but the path was well trodden and it was very hard to lose.

Before long the trees grew further apart and became a lot more welcoming. The first signs of civilisation began to appear, a well here, an old swing there and it wasn't long before the first of many dwellings could be seen. Arrelle trotted up the street, nodding to passing elves while admiring where they lived, their homes looked as though they were woven round the trees and had been lovingly made many years ago, it was like nothing she had ever seen before.

Arrelle continued, listening to the birds calling to one another, until she reached the town gates where two guards stood.
"State your name and business."
"I am Arrelle and I am just visiting this fair place and will move on soon."
the gaurd looked Arrelle up and down, he noted the lack of weapons, just a simple bow as far as he could see, then he looked at her face, a kindly face if ever he saw one. He smiled
"You may pass." he said as one of the gates opened,
"Thankyou." said Arrelle as she and her horse walked through.

The gate closed behind her, she looked around, somehow it was lovlier this side of the walls, she wouldn't have thought that was possible. She walked slowly on gazing around, lost in the beauty.

[ November 16, 2002: Message edited by: dragoneyes ]

Belle decided to go wandering about the palace, afterall she had been in her quarters for the two days she had been there. She wandered out throught the dimly lit corridors and into the extravagant gardens. Finally, she spotted King Oropher. He seemed to have been walking around as well. "King Oropher," said Belle, relieved that she found him,"I have been meaning to ask you something. Faryn, one of your servants has been very kind to me, and I was wondering if I could take her with me on my journey. I will pay you if need be." Oropher thought to himself quietly and said,"I will give her to you for, lets say....thirty gold pieces." Belle nodded and pulled out a suede pouch and pulled out five ten-piece coins. She handed him the coins and said,"The extra twenty pieces is for the hospitality and kindness you have shown me." He nodded and Belle bowed and turned and headed back to her room. She couldn't wait to see the look on Faryn's face, for an adventure was just what that girl needed.
Belle pulled herself into her sheets and quickly fell into a deep sleep. The next morning they were leaving and she knew that she would not have a comfortable sleep in a long while.

In the morning:

Belle awoke to the rapping of Faryn on her door. "Come in," Belle said groggily. Faryn walked in and looked at Belle, waiting to hear about what Oropher had said. Belle smiled and nodded her head and Faryn jumped up and down with excitement. Faryn rushed out of the room to pack her things while Belle packed hers. After about an hour, Belle and Faryn met Tallin out in front of the stables. Belle unlocked the fence for her horse and quickly prepared the horse for departure. "Do you plan on bringing more people along with us?" asked Tallin. "Yes, but I can not wait much longer, I hope to meet more people on my way to the mountains. I have waisted enough time already." "Very well," said Tallin and she mounted her horse. Oropher lent Faryn one of his horses and she quickly mounted it with great excitement.

OOC: Sorry to powerplay sooo much, but this RPG needs to get on with the plot.

[ August 18, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

Tallin had not ridden a horse in years. A lot of years. She hadnt tried talking to one before either. She looked sceptically at the sleek stallion standing in front of her and hoped that its mind would work in approximately the same way as the wolves.

"Good morrow, fine Stallion." She tried tenatively. The horses ears straightened up and it shook its head, looking around for the animal that had talked to it.

"I tried to tell you Tall. Its a dumb beast." Jet was sitting some way behind Tallin with Dia. She had told them to stay hidden in case they scared the horse. Dia had commented that that would involve changing species. Tallin ignored them. She stepped towards the horse, laying a hand on its nose and looked into its liqid eyes.

"Friend, it is me who speaks. By what name can I address you?"

The horse looked in as close to astonishment as it could get. Then it nodded its head to her slowly. Its mind voice when it came was deep and mellow, like the soft warmth of the sun. "I am Delroth, stallion of Rohan."

"Of Rohan? Oropher has honoured us indeed!" It didnt hurt to use a little flattery. "I will remember you great status when , or if you give me permission to ride?"

Delroth looked a little taken a back. But of course mistress. And you may tell the large dogs to come out of the bushes now." There was a smile in his voice.

Tallin smiled back and whistled at the wolves before mounting Delroth. A shiver ran through her; they were off!

[ August 18, 2003: Message edited by: Amanaduial the archer ]

[dragoneyes]

ooc: I was kind of waiting for Raye but it doesn't really matter.

Arrelle wandered down the road, at quite a leisurely speed as the road was almost deserted. She rounded a corner and there were three travelling companions atop horses and walking next to them were two wolves. Two wolves? Waht were they doing here? Lorran was a bit jumpy, the old cart-horse in the stable next to her own used to talk of evil wolves when she was just a foal and so they naturally made her a little weary.
"Calm down Lorran, they can't be wild wolves, they won't hurt you, calm down now." said Arrelle in a soft voice, but Lorran couldn't help it, she just wasn't comfortable around wolves. Lorran started backing away,
"Lorran! Walk on!" said Arrelle starting to get angry
"Don't be stupid, walk forward!" Lorran walked forward a little, and as the group approached she pushed right up the opposite side of the road and tried to rush quickly past but she made eye contact with one of the wolves and she froze. Suddenly she reared up went spinning away in blind panic, Arrelle held on tight trying to calm Lorran down as well as trying to stay on. Lorran rose up once more and threw Arrelle off. Arrelle immediately sprund up and grabbed Lorrans reigns, despite her stinging side she just managed to get control of Lorran as the three travellers came running up, looking worried, the wolves were nowhere in sight.
"Are you alright?" asked an elf with brown hair and piercing blue eyes.
"Yes I'm fine," said Arrelle blushing,
"I've made such a spectacle of myself though." she added.

[ November 19, 2002: Message edited by: dragoneyes ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

OCC: Ok so Im not taking a back seat! Sorry about rushing you dragon.

Tallin saw the horse and its rider roound the corner in front of them and noticed the horses fear of the wolves immediately by its flattened ears and wild eyes. She looked down at the pair by her side.

"What?" Dia said reproachfully. "I didnt do anything! 'Scuse me one moment while I go and switch species." She added in a mutter. She had been stroppy with Tallin ever since shed been proved worng over the horse issue. Tallin sighed and gave a small smile, but she would have to sort it out later with Dia; right now there was one large frightened horse and an edgy and embarrased rider heading straight for her. The horses wild eyes were swivelling around looking for an escape and its rider was getting just as agitated trying to control it. She tried to steer past hastily but suddenly the horse froze, its eyes locked with one of the wolves, frozen in an endless moment. Then, breaking out of the trance the horse reared and bolted forward, throwing the rider off; however, the woman jumped up, whirling around and grabbing her steeds reins and holding on stubbornly until the horse calmed down. Her speed and skill impressed Tallin, who swiftly dismounted to greet the newcomer.

"Are you all right?" Belle called forward, before also dismounting. The woman looked up, her cheeks pink with embarrasment with a bashful smile.

"Yes Im fine. Ive made such a spectacle of myself though." She replied a little sheepishly. She glared, but rather dubiously at the wolves. Dia gave Tallin an injured look and lay down muttering and Jet followed suite.

Tallin smiled at the woman; she had made a similar entrance when she had first met Oropher, but with her it had been falling out of a tree. She stepped forward.

"I am sorry about that. My wolves, as they keep reminding me-" She glared at Dia. -"Cannot help their species. Im sorry for the upset though. My name is Tallin Wolfsoul." She held out a hand.

The woman took it, a look on her face as fif she almost recognised the name and smiled, but she looked a little puzzled.

"Your wolves."

Oh boy... "In a way yes. They are my family in a way." The woman looked astonished and considering this is the scale of things Tallin didnt blame her. Belle and Faryn saved her from explaining further as she too introduced themselves. "I am Ainabelleth Quelleur of Lorien. This is Faryn or Mirkwood." Faryn looked rather please at being given a title. "What brings you here to Mirkwood Arrelle?" She continued.

[ August 18, 2003: Message edited by: Amanaduial the archer ]

[Brinniel]

Raye had followed Arelle through the forest. She had spotted her the previous night, admiring her horse.
Raye's last horse had disappeared several months ago, and since then she had been in great need of another. Raye had many other chances to steal a horse, but they had all been somewhat a disgrace. But this horse- the horse this girl rode was perfect. She was a beautiful, strong horse, and Raye could see that she had traveled many miles before. If she could just dispose of the girl, the horse would be her's.

Unfortunately, Raye was closer to the city than she had thought. Through the trees, she could see the gates and the guards who stood there. Raye stopped and waited for the girl to pass. She dared not take another step; she did not wish to risk in giving herself away. She waited as the girl approached the guards.
"State your name and business," Raye heard one of the guards say.
"I am Arrelle and I am just visiting this fair place and will move on soon," the girl responded.
"You may pass." the guard said as one of the gates opened,
The girl, Arrelle walked her horse past the gates and disappeared.

Now was Raye's chance. She approached the guards calmly and steadily, her eyes focused on the gates. She was barely two feet from the guards before she stopped.
The guards looked at Raye warily; they sensed the danger of her presence.
"Let me pass," Raye said.
"You must tell us your name and state you business first," one of the guards responded.
"My business is none of your concern," she smirked.
Before either guard could bring up his sword, Raye had hit one hard against the head, leaving him unconscious. She grabbed the other guard, one hand tightening around his neck; the other held a dagger which threatened to penetrate his throat.
"Open the gates," Raye demanded. "Say that I may pass."
The guard nodded, turning pale. "You may pass," he gasped.
And to Raye's pleasure, one of the gates slowly opened.
"Thank you," she said, throwing the guard to the ground. She kicked him hard, and then he too went unconscious.

When Arrelle, the girl Raye had been following, came back into sight, Raye could see that she was off her horse and talking to others. Cautiously, Raye approached them, trying to avoid any chance of being seen. As the shapes of wolves came into view, Raye groaned. Instantly, she knew that they belonged to Tallin Wolfsoul.
Great, she thought. Just what I needed.
Though Raye had never spoken with Tallin, she had seen her many times and knew of her ways. Raye despised Tallin. So many times she had wanted to kill her, but Raye knew better than that. Tallin's wolves always watched and protected her, and Raye knew that they could be quite dangerous. Not until she had killed her wolf friends could Raye kill Tallin.
The others that stood with Tallin and spoke with Arrelle, Raye did not recognize. An elf and a servant, it appeared. Not much of a threat.
It appeared that Arrelle may join this strange company. Raye did not care. It was the girl's horse she was still after. Though it would be more difficult to steal a horse among a group, Raye would not give up so easily. She needed this horse desperately, and she would not let minor glitches in her plans ruin her chances. No, that horse would belong to her.
Raye grinned openly as she remained hidden in the shadows.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Tallin continued walking but she felt uneasy; it was as if someone was watching her. She glanced at the wolves but Dia was sulking and Jet was attempting to comfort his mate. She shook her head and told herself she was being silly, forcing herself to concentrate on the new woman.

Arrelle was very easy to get along with, smiling easily as she fitted into the group even after her original embarrassing start. She told them how she had come to Mirkwood, how she felt fate had led her down this path, a notion that seemed to entrance Faryn. Tallin nodded and smiled absently. She was sure she had seen something moving in the shadows, and the only thing that moved so silently through shadows was a predator...

She caught Jets eye. The wolf looked up gloomily, upset at Dias moodiness. Tallin smiled and put her hand lightly on his back to comfort him. "Jet, look in the shadows just over there." She said careful not to look. Jet sighed, walked forward sniffing carelessly at something then looked vaguely in the direction Tallin had indicated. His eyes widened slightly but he didnt react otherwise.

"I see it. And ideas?

Tallin glanced around, following a bird trail over the forest then let her eyes wander down to the shadows. Once again, just a faint movement, as slight as if it was almost not there. But it was the liquid movement of something confident and used to stalking other creatures...a predator...

"I dont know Jet. Tell Dia will you?"

"Definintely. Ill keep an eye on it dont worry." He slunk back to Dia. Tallin turned back to the three others, half joining in the conversation, trying to keep the sense of unease off as day turned to dusk...

[dragoneyes]

Arrelle walked next to Lorran, resting her hand on the horse's warm neck. Lorran was slowly getting used to the idea of working around wolves but Arrelle didn't want to try riding her until she was completely fine, it could take just one of the wolves to something unexpected and Lorran would bolt again.

"So, you've heard what brought me to Mirkwood. What brought you?" asked Arrelle,
"Well," said Faryn "I came here to work originally, but miss Belle turned up just the other day and she was injured badly and I felt I just had to come along with her." Arrelle turned to Belle, shocked,
"You were badly injured? You do not look as though you have been."
"Well, I had a good healer." She said simply, smiling and looking at Tallin, but Tallin wasn't listening and seemed to be in a world of her own.

"Where is it you are planning to go?" asked Arrelle, eager to find out where such a strange selection of people would be going.
"We're travelling to the Grey mountains, to find my brother," said Belle with a determined look on her face.
"Oh," said Arrelle but she didn't continue because Lorran was getting nervy. Arrelle shot a suspicious look back at the wolves but they were doing nothing out of the ordinary, but Lorran's ear were still twitching in all directions and her eyes were wide, as though she was trying to spot someone following her.

[Amanaduial the archer]

The daylight around the group was quickly turning to dusk. The sun was sinking down below the tree line, sending vibrant colours over the forest when Belle called for the group to stop.

As they made a campfire, Tallin noticed that she was not the only one who seemed uneasy. Loran, Arelles horse seemedw as uneasy as the wolves although, she reasoned, it could just be because of the wolves.

Stretching, she settled herself with her back against a tree with the wolves lying around her.

"Jet?" Tallin didnt open her eyes as she sent the message.

"Always watching Tal. Dont worry." He snuggled into his mate and gave a great sigh. Within in minutes, the makeshift camp was almost full of sleeping figures.

In the darkness, another smiled...

[ November 26, 2002: Message edited by: Amanaduial the archer ]

[Brinniel]

Though the sky was filled with stars, it was the time of the new moon, and therefore it was quite dark. Raye liked it that way. She liked the darkness. Unlike most humans, she had perfect vision during both day and night. Raye had hardly slept in the past few days. But that did not bother her. She could go for weeks barely sleeping at all.
Tonight Raye was more anxious than usual. She would finally get that horse. But Raye also knew that this theft would be dangerous, especially with those wolves. Raye did not usually steal from groups. But then again, she hadn't planned to; the one she planned to steal from started alone, after all.
There was a chance Raye could get caught, but she didn't believe it all too likely. Raye was a swift mover; she could come and go in the blink of an eye. She had never been caught stealing before. And she had never even come close to being defeated in a duel. She would not fail at this.

Raye waited until all were asleep. Even Tallin's wolves seemed to have drifted. Raye watched Arrelle's horse closely. She seemed to be rather uneasy. She already was growing suspicious of Raye's plans. Raye would have to come up behind the horse quickly. She would have to mount her and flee the scene before the horse was able to wake the others.
Raye smiled to herself. This couldn't be too hard at all. With elven rope in her left hand and a long knife in the right, Raye approached the horse swiftly and silently.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Tallin heard small sound, the sound of someone stubbing their toe. Her eyes flicked open but she remained still.

A tall, cloaked figure, the hood of its cloak thrown back to reveal long hair, its red gleam still visible in the light of the embers of the fire. Raye.

Tallin cursed inwardly; this was something she could do without. Not that she was feeling bad or anything, but Raye was always something she could do without...

The woman was creeping towards the horses, a rope in her slender hand. The hand that has killed many. For one rather unheroic moment she thought of just pretending to be asleep before mentally slapping herself. She knew Raye was not cruel to animals, or not as cruel as she was to humans and elves, but it was the principle of the thing. Her hand crept to her side, fingering one of the many throwing knives concealed on her person.

"Dia? Get up."

"Whuh? Ow, man, never bang your head on a tree branch first thing in the evening-"

Tallin winced at the noise and hushed furiously but the wold had already made more than enough noise to alert the murderess. She had frozen and slowly she turned to face the tree Tallin was leaning against.

"I know youre there, dog-tamer. You can stop hiding behind them now." She mocked softly, not waking the others but so her voice carried. Tallin gritted her teeth against the insult, standing.

"Whats a beautiful nightmare like you doing out here then Raye? Oh, sorry, I forgot your brief span as a Lady of the Night..." The elf countered. Raye stepped forward, a long knife gleaming in her hand.

"You'll regret that girl." She leapt, as smoothly as swift as a fox towards the elf and her wolves....

[ColletteTook]

<< ooc:many apologies, i have not been able to get to my computer for some time, but im back and i have read most.>>

bic: Faryn's heart was content, hovering over the merrily crackling fire making sure "Miss Belle" was warm enough, fussing over weather she had enough quilts or not, giving even her own to make sure she stayed warm until she insisted that she was being more of a hinderance than a help, was when she finally fell back to toasting bits of bread on a stick, when there was a sudden noise, and there was a whirl of happenings, and a knife appeared from somewhere, and in that instance , Faryn's sword was drawn and ready in her hand, and she hovered just behind Tallin, should she need any help, and just in front of Miss Belle, should she need protecting.

[Brinniel]

As Raye approached Tallin, she noticed another behind her. She paid no heed to this girl though; Raye could tell that she was just a servant girl. Her eyes remained focused on Tallin.
Raye pointed her long knife at the elf, who was slowly reaching for her own weapon.
"Tallin," the servant girl whimpered.
Raye couldn't help but smile. She loved it when others feared her.
"What is it you want?" Tallin asked.
"I simply wish to be left alone"
"Alone?" Tallin almost laughed at that. "You are the one who invaded our camp. Leave us alone!"
Raye moved her knife closer to Tallin. "If you shut up and let me do my business," she hissed. "Then perhaps you will see daylight again."
The wolf-tamer opened her mouth in response, but if anything came out, Raye would never know, for it was at that moment that one of Tallin's wolves lunged at her with a menacing growl.
Before the wolf had even reached her, Raye swung her long knife into its side. Unfortunately, the knife had penetrated the thick hide enough to only slightly injure the animal. As a result, the wolf gave a large howl, waking the rest of the camp.
Raye quickly glanced around at the other. Only having just awoken, they all looked quite dazed and confused in what was happening. It would not take them long to realize, though. When that happened, Raye would be outnumbered. As much as she wanted to kill them all, Raye had never fought this many at once before and did not yet wish to take the chance.
Dodging Tallin and the servant girl's swords, Raye fled from the two, her feet quick as lightening. She headed straight for Lorran, the horse Raye desired so much, and mounted her. The horse whinnied in fear, but Raye was able to calm her by whispering in elvish. Then she kicked Lorran hard, sending off the horse into a gallop. The two fled into the night, disappearing from the sight of the astonished company.

As Raye rode, she muttered to herself in disappointment. She had the horse, but she had not killed even one of the members of the group. This was not natural for Raye to do. Not once had she ever let one of her victims walk away alive. And she wouldn't.
Raye would be seeing this strange company again. She would bring them all to their death.

[dragoneyes]

By the time Arrelle had stood up and drawn her sword, Raye had jumped onto Lorran and galloped away.
"Lorran! Come back!" she cried running after her horse.
"Arrelle." Said Tallin, "You will not catch up with them, your horse is unfortunately a fast one." Arrelle turned back bewildered,
"But... but she has my horse. That's my horse she's got!." Arrelle was at a loss, she couldn't see why anyone would want to steal from her.

"Leave it Arrelle, it's not likely that we'll see her again" said Tallin plainly. Arrelle turned on her,
"You wouldn't say that about one of your wolves would you?"
"Well, no but-"
"No buts, she's been my travelling companion ever since she was a foal, I'm not going to give up on her now!"
"Look," Belle said, interrupting the dispute, "This is no way to get anything done is it? Now I say we should finish resting here and then continue on after Arrelle's horse."

[Amanaduial the archer]

Tallin gasped furiously as Dia howled in pain as the long knife scored a cut in her side. She dived forward at Obsidians assailant, but already the woman was on Lorran and galloping as fast as she could away. Drawing back her arm, Tallin threw one of her knives after her as hard as she could. The weapon only grazed Rayes arm though as she turned off the path into the forest.

Cursing, Tallin started walking back to the others, catching Arrelles arm as the distraught elf ran past her.

"Arrelle, You will not catch up with them, your horse is unfortunately a fast one."

Arrelle turned on her angrily."But... but she has my horse. That's my horse she's got!"

"Leave it Arrelle. Its not likely we'll see her again."

"But if we do..." Jet growled, licking his mates side. Tallin grinned grimly at him then turned back as Arrelle pushed her angrily.

"You wouldn't say that about one of your wolves would you? No buts, she's been my travelling companion ever since she was a foal, I'm not going to give up on her now!"

Tallin opened her mouth, then shut it, kneeling down to inspect Dia's side. She could feel Arrelles glare on her.

"Look," Belle said, interrupting the dispute, "This is no way to get anything done is it? Now I say we should finish resting here and then continue on after Arrelle's horse. We'll get her back. Dont worry, its only a horse."

Tallin winced at the last bit. Oh man, shouldnt have said that! Arrelle transfered her glare to Belle but Tallin cut in before she could say anything.

"Wait. We may carry on our original route-"

"But-"

"Like you said before Arrelle, no buts." Tallin attempted a smile. "Dont worry. We havent lost Raye yet."

"Raye? Oh you know her do you? Are you in league with her then, huh?-"

"What? Oh yes, shed really attack my wolves then wouldnt she." Tallin said, raising an eyebrow. She sighed and carried on more gently. "I know Raye through long and rather painful experience. She hates me, and the feeling is mutual."

"Why?" Arrelles voice was less angry now. Tallin didnt reply immediatly, pausing, remembering when she had first met Raye. She took a deep breath. "Lets just go. We want to reach the mountains before winter sets in dont we and at this rate, summer'll be gone in a flash."

Her wolves picked themselves up and followed Tallin as she set off. After a second the others followed.

[Brinniel]

It was mid-day when Raye saw the small company approach. She had been waiting for them, waiting to kill. It was a silly thing to do; sneaking up on them would be smarter. But Raye wanted to confront them. She was curious what would happen.
The company stopped a few several feet from Raye, their weapons drawn. Raye did not reach for her's.
"What is it you want?" she asked smoothly.
"My horse," the girl, Arrelle, cried out. "You stole her from me and I want her back."
Tallin didn't seem to happy about the girl's quick remark. She turned around and whispered something harsh to her.
"So," Raye said. "You want your horse back. And why is that? Where is this strange company here going?"
"To the Grey Mountains," the elf beside Tallin said. "I am in search of my missing brother."
"Oh, the Grey Mountains," Raye couldn't help but laugh. They were so foolish. "You will not come back alive then. No one has. There are dangers there that one could not even imagine."
"And how would you know that?" the servant girl asked, her eyes glaring.
"Why, servant girl," Raye replied. "I have been there myself. You won't find anyone who knows the Grey Mountains better than me." Raye smiled. "Say, how about this? If you let me keep the horse, I'll take you through the Grey Mountains. Deal? I mean, you don't have to accept my offer, and if you don't, you will get your horse back, girl. Unfortunately, without me, you would all likely die horrific deaths. Hmph. Not that I would care."
The others continued to glare at her, their looks skeptical.
"Choose quickly!" Raye demanded. "For I do not have all day."

[Amanaduial the archer]

I mean, you don't have to accept my offer, and if you don't, you will get your horse back, girl. Unfortunately, without me, you would all likely die horrific deaths. Hmph. Not that I would care."

Tallin forced herself not to smile as Jet performed the mind version of rolling her eyes. The girl was being melodramatic, something Tallin really couldny stand, but she was curious; why did such a one want to come? Tallin knew the woman knew much about the mountains... but the others, she couldnt expect the others to accept her offer, surely...

Belle appeared to be deep in thought, fighting with herself inside. Then she turned to Raye. "You proved to be sneaky, violent and a thief. You also tried to kill one of the wolves." She spoke carefully of Rayes bad points, but Tallin immediately knew with a sinking heart what was going to happen. "But you are a skilled fighter, and if you tell the truth of your knowledge....then I will accept you."

"WHAT?!" Jet and Dia yelped together outraged, then both started mindspeaking together.
"Tallin, you know of the ways of these strange elves, she must be jesting, surely-"Jet started to reason before Dia cut in.
"Tallin, tell her to take that back immediately. No, wait...if she comes, I will repay he for this cut. Oh, well said that elf-"[/i]

Tallin ignored them both, then slowly she smiled. Raye looked surprised at her reaction and glared at her.

"Well then. Welcome to our group." The wolf tamer murmered. She bowed mockingly to Raye then turned to the others as Belle spoke again. "Come then, we'll go." The elf seemed relieved that they hadnt been at each others throats straight away. "We have an elf to find!"

[dragoneyes]

Arrelle was glad at the wolves apparant shock at this, hoping that Tallin was going to follow their lead and reject her, but to Arrelle's dismay she accepted and everyone seemed to carry on as normal, Arrelle was outraged.
"YOU'RE LETTING HER KEEP MY HORSE?!" Arrelle yelled.
"Yes we are," said Tallin calmly "At least you can still see her, so stop complaining." Arrelle was fuming, she wanted to whip out her sword and strike Raye down where she sat, but she knew she wasn't good enough to and that she was the one more likely to get struck down, so instead she glared at Raye, who smiled triumphantly back.

"Do want to ride with me while you have no horse?" asked Faryn tentatively,
"Yes, thankyou." said Arrelle, trying to sound grateful, but sounding more angry than anything. She mounted behind Faryn, gritting her teeth and still glaring at Raye. She was putting her murderous hands all over Lorran, Arrelle would get her horse back, her mind was set on it.

[ December 01, 2002: Message edited by: dragoneyes ]

[ColletteTook]

"One weak link will easily break the chain with but a tug"
The words that her Grim and Gram had always said to her, now echoed through her head as she stared at the girl.
Raye glanced over. "What?!" she half-snarled, looking annoyed.
Faryn turned her head away with a shrug and carried on her uneasy thoughts to herself. She feared that Raye would cause distrust, and uneasiness in the company, and make a weak link in "the chain", and then become a merciless tugger upon them.
The tress rose dark around them, and the path wound ahead, deserted and yet to be trotted upon by their feet. She could see the sky through the tree tops, a deep azure, with a little puff cloud here or there...and then suddenly from no where Belle said "What lore do you know Faryn? Sing us a song!"
Faryn thought for a bashful moment and then giggled as she started:
"Troll sat alone on his seat of ston, and munched and mumbled a bare old bone;
For many a year he gnawed it near, for meat was hard to come by! Gum by!
In a cave in the hill he dwelled alone, and meat was hard to come by.
Up came tom with his big boots on. Said he to the Troll "Pray, what is yon? for it looks like the shin o' my old nuncle Tim, As should be a-lyin' in graveyard.
Caveyard!Paveyard!
This many a year has TIm been gone, and I thought he were lying in graveyard.
"My lad" said the Troll 'This bone I stole. BUt what be bones that lie in a hole? Thy nuncle was dead as a lump o' lead, afore I found his shinbone.
Tinbone! Thinbone!
He can spare a share for a poor old Troll, for he dont need his shinbone.'
Said Tom: 'I dont see why the likes o' thee without axin' leave with the shank or shin of my fathers kin, so hand the old bone over!
Rover!Trover!
Though dead he be, it belongs to he so hand the old bone over!
'For a couple of pins'' says the Troll and grins, 'i'll eat thee too, and gnaw thy shins. A bit o' fresh meat will go down sweet! I'll try my teeth on thee now!
Hee now! See now!
Im tired of gnawing old bones and skins, ive a mind to dine on thee now.
but just as he thought that dinner was caught,He found his hands had hold of naught. Before he could mind, Tom slipped behind and gave him the boot to larn him!
Warn him! Darn him!
A bump o' the boot on the seat, tom thought, would be the way to larn him.
But harder than stone is the flesh and bone of a Troll that site in the hills alone. As well set your boot to the mountains root, for the seat of a Troll dont feel it!
Peel it! Heal it!
Old Troll laughed, when he heard Tom groan, and he knew his toes could feel it.
Tom's leg is game, since home he came, and his bootless foot is lasting lame. but the Troll dont care, and he's still there with the bone he boned from it's owner!

There was an uproar of laughter from the rest of the company, even Faryn thought Raye to be smiling a bit from the corner of her eye, as they continued on, with lighter hearts.