RP 36: Redemption

[chrysophalax]

As they journeyed east from Imladris, the company each found themselves lost in their own thoughts. Maedhros remained morose, dwelling on the task before him. So lost in his dark meanderings was he, that he failed to watch the skies closely. Nildadari saw as it were, a great shadow skimming across the face of one of the largest mountains.

Clutching Maedhros' arm, she pointed. "Lord, the Dragon! Has he seen us, do you think?" A great dread fell upon her heart and she drew her cloak more closely about her. Caimare walked next to her, aware of her growing fear.

[Gothmog]

Travelling up from the depths of the Misty Mountains a somewhat ugly figure came grumbling all the while. Why did that dragon have to be so big. It cannot get to a chamber close to my Throne room. It was of course the ruler of the Orcs of the Misty Mountains, called by some of the less-well informed "The Great Goblin". Magnus had sent message to him that they needed to meet and the scorch marks on the back of the messenger hinted that it was urgent.

He entered the back of the large cave in which Magnus waited.

Well old friend, why have you have dragged me from my comfortable throne room all the way up here. What is so important. And more importantly, just What is in it for me???

[chrysophalax]

Magnus took no notice of the Goblin King's foul mood, in fact, he was rather pleased with himself at having stirred the old goblin's curoiusity enough to make him put in an appearance.

"Greetings, friend goblin! I bring you news that I believe you will find intriguing. An ancient foe of mine is heading in your direction, one Maedhros by name. He along with his "noble" brothers wrought havoc among your noble kin long ago and now he has returned, seeking two of his own kin. I need your assistance in delaying him from his task, as I believe I am near to finding those whom he so doggedly seeks."

Upon hearing the name of Maedhros, the Goblin King's face grew red with anger. Magnus rumbled in amusement. "I have in my hoard a certain gem, one coveted by the dwarves...this shall be yours if you catch but one of the party which accompanies him. I care not what you do with it, but Maedhros himself is to suffer no harm, mark me!" Magnus lashed his tail for emphasis knocking several underlings to the ground. "Come, are you ready for a little sport?"

[Elfarmari]

Barahir looked up at the sky.
"I have not the sight of the elves, but I too feel the evil presence. We would do well to get as far from this place as possible before stopping. Maedhros, will you tell us where we are headed? I may be able to help us find hidden paths the dragon or his minions do not know." With another glance at the sky, "I do not know much of dragons; does darkness dim their senses? Or are they as keen as wraiths? Travelling by night may be necessary."

[Gothmog]

Despite his rage at the mention of the name Maedhros. The Goblin Kings eyes lit up at the thought of the gem Magnus offered.

So You want him delayed but not harmed?
I hope you have a good reason and a suitable end in mind since you want me to let him go......

Very well. I will have one or two of his companians captured and brought into the mountain. At the least they will provide some enertainment for a week or so. He grinned. And that cursed Elf can spend a month searching the caverns of the mountains. He will find no more than the echo of their screams to keep him happy. Do you know what path they are taking over the mountains?

[chrysophalax]

"Maedhros' company appears to be only a day or two's march off from your front door. He is wily and sharp of eye. I have no doubt that he knows I am in the vicinity, therefore I believe I shall send him your way more swiftly. Besides, I grow tired of terrorizing the Men of Dale. That lesser wurm Smaug dislikes it immensely when I encroach upon his territory." Magnus looked westward, extending his sight in the fadiing light. It looked as though his quarry had gone to ground and his claws itched as his hunting instinct was aroused.

"Watch the foot-hills carefully. I know that they will attempt to enter one of the passes close by here as unnoticed as possible, so be wary!" With that he scattered rocks in his wake as he flew into the western sky.

[Maedhros]

Maedhros looked at both Nildadari and Caimarë. Yes, the dragon has seen us. He has been keeping an eye on us for a long time. This time he has wandered to close, he must have something wicked in mind for us. We must be doubly careful, for I sense the foul smell of orcs around these Mountains.
We shold look for a swift and safe way across these mountains, and try to avoid those orcs. We are not enough to withstand a massive attack from them. I wonder, if these are the same orcs that attacked us before we reached Rivendell.
As to where are we going Barahir, we are going east. Exactly where, I do not not, but we must be careful, because Magnus will lead us to his lair and I fear that he has already found or is very close in finding the twins.
A dragon senses are not dull by darkness. They were bred by Morgoth Bauglir in the foul caverns of Angband. Darkness is a part of them.

[chrysophalax]

Nildadari and Caimare went on ahead of the others, while Herugurth and Eve took up the rear-guard. Maedhros was concerned for Earitila, it seemed as though she hadn't spoken in days and her face was wan. He sought to engage her in conversation, but she only shook her head and pulled her cloak more tightly around her.

As night began to fall the Elves searched the skies as each of them began to feel more and more oppressed by thoughts that the Dragon was out there somewhere, searching tirelessly for Dior's sons. They could see that soon they would reach the mountains and that there their cover would run out. Bedding down for the night, Nildadari, who was too edgy to sleep, took first watch. Little did she know that the Dragon would soon be the least of her worries.

[Gothmog]

The Goblin King watched as Magnus flew off. He then turned and went back into the mountain and his throne-room. He gave orders for the mountain-sides to be watched for Maedhros and his band. Within a very few hours orcs were all over the mountain seeming to squeeze out of the very rocks themselves. There was no part or path that did not have at least half a dozen watchers.

The Goblin King sat and waited for news of just where Maedhros and his party were.

[Elfarmari]

Awakened by some instinct, Barahir stood up and walked silently to Nildadari.
"We are not safe here. Some evil stalks us. We must awake and continue our journey. I know not what my heart warns me against, but my mind fears orcs, stirred up by the dragon which pursues Maedhros. Help me wake the others."
Within moments all traces of the camp were gone, and the company was moving eastward, following paths unknown to orcs.

[Gothmog]

At least that is what he thought. He did not realise just how many orcs were at the command of the Goblin King or how well they could see all that moved on the mountains. Soon news was being taken to the king of movements approaching the foothills.

[chrysophalax]

Magnus flew low over the encroaching forest and as he flew, he thought he detected movement below. Lower he flew, scenting the wind. His evil heart lejoiced as he scented Elves, Men and horses. obviously travelling together. Knowing that orcs were issuing from the mountain-side at his back, Magnus swooped low and set the woods alight in an attempt to drive them into the open.

[Turgon]

'How the wind blows!' the brigand grumbled. 'Do you hear it?'

The rushing of wind could be heard in the treetops above, it was almost as if some fell spirit was swooping unseen over their heads. Turig was uneasy, feeling a fear the like of which...

'The Dragon! Get down!' Somebody yelled. 'No, run, run... the woods are aflame do you not smell their burning!?!' Cried another.

Turig looked around, the company seemed in some disarray; spurring his horse forward the brigand rode towards Nildadari, drawing spear and shield as he did so. 'We must flee!' He yelled. 'Or die like rats caught in trap... Come on! Ride! Ride!'

[EverEve]

If there was any hope left in her that her heart had been wrong, that it was just the tension in the air that made her fear the mountains so, it left her the moment they reached the foothills. O! how she had tried to warn Maedhros! But he was as stubborn as ever, and waved her worries aside. But now, the dragon was upon them, and, if her heart was right again, orcs were soon to come. 'How foul these mountains can be!' she thought to herself.

But, alas, for the moment had come, and they had been discovered by that foul worm. Her horse quivered underneath her, shaking with fear of the horrible creature its sensitive nose detected. 'Fly! Nora-lim!' she cried. Flying behind Turig, she followed.

[Elfarmari]

Alfirin and Barahir followed Turig's example, drawing swords and urging all to follow. "Do not allow yourselves to be separated! I fear what evil's the dragon could think of should he have a prisoner." Barahir circled around and positioned himself behind the rest of the company.

[Maedhros]

If Magnus wants someone, then by Manwë upon Taniquetil, he shall have me then. Careful, we have to stay together. Is that a cave that I see in the mountain. We might take refuge inside of it, but we must be careful for orks.

[Gothmog]

Maedhros and Barahir stood guard at the mouth of the cave while the rest checked the inside. The cave seemed to be about 30 yards long and 10 yards at its widest with no other openings visible.

Just as Turig reported this to Maedhros there came a hail of black arrows aimed at the cave-mouth. One shattered on the rock beside Maedhros' head and the three of them dived for cover within the cave.

We seem to have been spotted said Maedhros. I could not see how many there are, I do not think it is a large band but we are traped in here for the moment.

[chrysophalax]

Nildadari heard Turig shouting as he rode toward her and as she turned her horse, she felt a burning pain in her thigh as one of the orc-arrows grazed her. She felt a surge of anger that blinded her to all reason. Pulling her bow from where it hung at her back, she nocked an arrow and let fly at the first orc that showed itself. In her rage she failed to notice how many of the stealthy creatures there were creeping slowly through the trees, encircling her. Turig however, realized her plight and called to her, trying to bring her to her senses.

High above, Magnus watched gleefully as the orcs harried Maedhros and his companions. Swooping close to the earth, he goaded Maedhros, saying, "What will you do now, Elf of the West? I have discovered the hiding place of your kinsmen. How much longer will they be safe from me think you? One day? Two?" he rumbled deep in his chest, knowing the hatred he fueled in the Elf. "Enjoy these playmates while you can, my ancient enemy, for soon come the time for all dalliance to end!" So saying, he soared higher on his enormous wings, then headed into the East.

[Elfarmari]

"Do not believe the dragon. If he indeed knew of these kinsmen you seek, would the still be unharmed? Would he not wish to bring them to you, to show you the torments they suffered? The words of a dragon are not to be believed. Come! One of our own is about to be captured if we do not come to her aid! Go, vent your fury on the orcs, and return with our companions. I will hold this entrance." Barahir watched briefly as Maedhros strove with himself before returning to the task at hand. Alfirin and Barahir stood one either side of the cave entrance, behind twin boulders, swords drawn. No orc would enter that cave.

[Turgon]

Seeing the Elf-maid in trouble, Turig rushed from the cave mouth, bounding from rock to rock as he desended the slope towards the tree line. 'Stay on guard!' he yelled to the rangers as he darted passed them. 'We have nothing to fear from this vermin!'

A cold fire burned in Turig's eyes, his hatred for the soldiers of darkness went beyond all reason. Memories of his dead wife came back to him now, driving him to a fury even the most savage of the orcs would have quaked to look upon. For they had twisted his mind, as surely as the Dark Lord had twisted their foul bodies.

Nildadari was slowly being cut off from her companions, he could see shadows beneath the trees circling round the her horse. Yet the Elf-maid was fighting valiantly, her bow singing as she shot arrow upon arrow into the goblin ranks. It would not be long though until her quiver was emptied.

With a mighty leap the Brigand launched himself from a rock just above the uruk position, crashing like a thunderbolt into their rear. Thrusting his black spear deep into the belly the nearest orc, he drew an axe from his belt and readied his shield.

'Come on you filthy maggots!' He growled, his voice deep with hatred. 'I am Turig Blackheart; do you dare stand against me?' The goblins jeered at this, but Turig payed them no heed, rushing forward with a cry of vengance upon his lips, using his shield like a battering-ram to break through the uruk line - his axe flashing this way and that, felling goblins like they were so many trees. He would make it through to Nildadari... this time he would not fail.

[Gothmog]

No orc would enter that cave.

So they thought. But little they knew of the ways of the Orc. About half-way down the right side of the cave a hidden door quietly opened and out came six Orcs. They made their way silently to the opening of the cave and dived upon Alfirin and Barahir. Alfirin was taken by surprise and stunned by a blow to the back of his head. He was then dragged back through the door by two the Orcs leaving Barahir to battle the other four.

Nildadari Loosed her last arrow she was dragged from her horse and pulled towards another small opening in the mountain. As Turig forced his way to her three very large Orcs stood in front of him. His shield knocked one of them to the ground but his charge was halted. He struck at the closest of the two remaining Orcs and opened a large wound in its side but the third closed with him and struck a mighty blow with its crooked sword and split his shield. But Turig discarded the wreckage and returned a two-handed blow that split the Orc from crown to waist. As he took the axe from the body the Orc he had knocked down first was rising just in time to meet the sharp blade. Looking around for Nildadari he saw her being pulled into a cave. With a scream of rage he made for the opening after her.

[chrysophalax]

Nildadari fought like a mad thing as the orcs carrying her along a dark passageway. Ahead she could see Alfirin, apparently unconscious, being dragged roughly along by the filthy creatures. The passageway opened out onto a large room from which several tunnels exited. Oily torches burned in cressets set in the walls and she coughed, finding it hard to catch her breath. The nearest orc dug her in the ribs and she jerked her arm free and elbowed it in the face. It snarled, fangs dripping yellow gobbets onto the cave-floor. Recoiling in revulsion, she again struggled wildly but they held her with more strength than she would have ever given them credit for.

They took one of the tunnels to the right and became to run faster, the reason becoming obvious to her keen ears. Someone was following.

The remaining companions set about looking for a way to follow, hoping to reclaim their friends. Maedhros saw where Turig had just managed to slip inside as the door had closed and they began searching for anyway to gain entrance into the mountain.

[Snaga]

Eäritila put a soft hand on Turig's mouth, as she slipped out of the shadows. She seemed to shimmer ever so slightly, now he could see her at all: her elven beauty was ethereal: he blinked, as if trying to awaken. His eyes widened in surprise, for he had not seen her for some time, but he could not recall that she had ever been away. How did she appear here, now?

She spoke so quietly, it was like the merest breath of wind on a still grey day. 'You move too loudly, you will be found. These foul creature can hear and smell you even if it is too dark to see. I will go first! Guard the way behind me, and follow as quietly as you can. Fear not! I will not lose them.'

She removed her hand from his mouth.

'But how...' he began, but the echoes of his hoarse whisper stopped him.

'Later!' he thought he heard her reply with amusement. But in that instant, she was gone, and the darkness closed in about him again so deep he wasn't sure he hadnt imagined it.

He continued more cautiously and carefully, making no sound. Then he came upon a slain orc, killed with by a single knife wound to the neck. Then another. A third was a little further on. Eäritila's blade was sharp! he thought...

[Gothmog]

The Orcs had no wish to meet the mad-man who followed them in to the caves. They had already seen enough of his axe. They traveled through the tunnels as swiftly as they could taking many turnings to try to throw their pursuer off of the trail. Deep inside the mountain they came to anouther cavern with several openings, they split into four groups and used different routes from there to confuse the one following them.

They were all heading for the throne-room where thier King was waiting for them. Once they got there the Orcs would be safe and it would be time to start having some fun with the captives.

[Turgon]

Turig made his way though the inky blackness of the Orc-warren, crouching low as he went - though the tunnel was more than large enough to accomodate him. It was almost as if the the weight of the mountains were pressing down on him, and it made him uneasy. As he struggled on through the darkness his sense of hearing and smell became sharper, and yet he dearly wished he could blot them out. The smell of decay was all-purvading, and every now and then a cry of torment would rip through the darkness making him start, becoming louder and more frequent as he drew further into the darkness.

He silently cursed the Elf-maid for leaving him alone, just when an elf's sight would prove useful too. Still there was nothing to do put press on, Nildadari was in desperate peril, and he doubted Eäritila could do much to help her. A knife in the dark was one thing - but a whole nest of orcs was quite something else. What was she thinking?

[Gothmog]

Three of the groups of Orcs had made it to the throne-room but only one of the captives was amongst them. The Goblin King laughted delightedly thinking of how this one would scream over the next couple of days. Even while he enjoyed his thoughts he demanded to know where the other 'guest' was!!

The last group of Orcs was at that moment running down the last passage to the throne-room. They were but minutes from the entrance with the second captive. Not far behind them came the sounds of a man following them. They could see the light from the entrance to the cavern now.

[Maedhros]

Damn those orcs, that pathway is now closed to us. They have taken Nildadari now, by the Valar, they will not harm her. Our company has been divided.
Eäritila and Turig are ahead of us. We must move fast Caimarë, your sister need us.
Wait, is does that shadow hides an entrance or do my eyes deceive me. Come, we have no time to waste.

[Snaga]

Earitila watched and waited. Turig was near... and loud. What was it about the mortal kind that in their fleeting presence in Arda they were compelled to make so much noise? The orcs would hear him... if he could not be stealthy, he would have to be a distraction. She waited for the melee to unfold. Concealed in shadow she silently fitted an arrow to her bow.

'One, two, three... three orcs dead before they see the first fall to the floor. Four five six... another three will fall before they can react. Then move! Seven eight nine, perhap ten before they see me. I must make them each arrow count! After that they will be upon me!' She was perfectly poised, with little hope in her plan, yet having no fear either.

'Elbereth A Gilthoniel' she ran the words through her mind. 'Though I am far out of reach of all starlight, send me your grace and strength!'

The moment approached.

[Turgon]

The brigand could see torchlight up ahead. Dim and distant at first - but as he drew closer to the source, it became clear that a great fire was roaring. Clearly some Uruk settlement. He had heard that the Orcs of the Misty Mountains made their dwelling in deep delved caverns beneath the earth - if the raucous clamour echoing about the tunnels wasn't enough to signal their presence.

Coming to a halt a few feet from the cave mouth, Turig hefted the axe in his hands, and readied himself for the battle ahead. Tactics were of no use here. Besides, the brigand had ever been an advocate of simple force, why change now? And so with a quick prayer to whatever powers those damnable elves believed in, Turig charged.

And 'Filthy, pot-bellied, pig-stickers!' was his battle-cry.

[Gothmog]

As Turig charged in to the cavern he saw that it was not 'some Uruk settlement' that he had found. It was the Throne-Room of the Great Goblin himself and furthermore....It was Full of Orcs!!!

He could also see just ahead of him the group of orcs he had been following and at last could identify their captive. Nildadari! With no thought of his own fate he charged straight at them. His battle cry caused the orcs to laugh and jeer, one called back "Hello Pig". And with that Battle was joined.

Far back in the cavern on a raised platform, the Great Goblin watched the fight from his throne with the other captive Alfirin by his side, with many orcs preventing his escape. Alfirin recognised the one charging in and despite his capters shouted "Save her! Get her out of here Turig", though he was beaten harshly for this.

[Snaga]

Earitila sighed, and let fly her first arrow. Straight through the the throat of the first orc that held Nildadari. And the second fell dead, an arrow in its eye. For an instant she was free. The third slew one right in the midst of a sword thrust at Turig.

Orcs screamed, and looked around.

The fourth arrow and fifth arrows, took those closest to Alfirin. THe sixth sped straight at the neck of the Great Goblin... This one must hit home!

'Get that elf-witch!' screamed a goblin-guard, blackened tusks protruding from his snarling mouth.

Even as she danced away in the shadows she watched its flight... agonisingly slow it seemed. If she could kill him, then the confusion would aid their escape.

The Great Goblin leapt from his seat in a rage. The arrow struck! But in his thigh... embedding deep into the wiry flesh of his leg.

Three more arrows... three more dead. Now they were all freed but surrounded. She rolled forward under a scimitar swipe, flung her spear to Nildadari, and drew her sword, eyes burning bright.

[chrysophalax]

Nildadari snatched the spear (spear?) out of the air and rammed it through the nearest orc-neck. She then used the butt of the spear as though it were a quarter-staff and took out the orc that had struck Alfirin. Surprised that Turig had been the one to lead the company in her rescue, she paused momentarily and nearly paid for it with her life.

The Great Goblin, maddened almost to blindness, grabbed a crude sword from the floor where it had fallen and began slashing wildly around him, bellowing to his minions to kill the prisoners and damn the Dragon and his foul mutterings! Those orcs nearest Alfirin and Nildadari backed them into a corner. She placed herself in front of the injured Ranger and drew a wicked-looking dagger from her boot, then smiled, screaming defiance in their faces.

Despite her bravado, Nildadari was grabbed and quickly disarmed by two large orcs and flung into a far corner. Alfrin struggled to his feet, calling to the others to save her.

[Gothmog]

Alfirin was dragged into the mass of orcs leaving Nildadari alone in the corner. The Goblin King ordered a troop of Orcs to go after Earitila.; Despite his rage the orcs were none to happy to do so and only slowly crept into the tunnel.

Turig, although still alone in the cavern was not worried about the odds. He just waded in with his axe. But if more help did not arive soon he would manage only to die with the one he was here to save. He had already felled three of the orcs surrounding Nildadari but was being surrounded himself.

[Maedhros]

Damn, as we made our ways into the caves, we encountered some Orcs resistance along the way.
I almost let myself loose, but I was able to contain myself. Even thought all this time has passed I still remember my torment in Thangorodrim. Luckily the company had not suffered any losses and we seem to be closer to our destination.
I can almost feel the presence of Turig and Nildadari. I will not be able to live with myself if they become hurt because of aiding me in this quest.
Caimarë led our way into the caves, and it has he that first noticed Turig in a fight against Orcs.
I killed the last Orc that was harrasing him.
Well done Turig, you have done as I hope you would do. Where is Eäritilia and the others?

[Gothmog]

With the last of the Orcs surrounding Turig and Nildadari dead Maedhros looked around. At the far end of the cavern next to the Great Goblin he could see Alfirin.....

Between them and the company was an army of Orcs, far more than they could hope to fight. The Great Goblin had his crooked sword ready to strike, there was no way that the company could reach him before that blow fell. Alfirin shouted out "Maedhros in the name of the Valar Get Nildadari and the rest out Now".

[¤-Elessar-¤]

Alfirin looked up, and in the milisecond of thought he had, he came upon the fact that he had time for one blow. The Orc was far too large to take down in one blow, and blocking his crooked sword would not work. His mind and eyes looked down, and settled upon the gnarled leg of the beast. He brought his sword, heavy from wounds and weakness, up in a desperate stroke. He hit the goblin's knee with a sickening crack, and he fell to the ground with a tremendous crash, his sword flying from his hand.

He turned around and pointed his sword at the goblins. They, being less even than orcs, took two things into conisderation. Their great leader had fallen to a man. This man was standing there, pointing his bloody blade at them. Many of them ran, into the dark recesses of the cave. But there were still a few, maybe ten or so, that would bar his crossing. Alfirin knew that he was in no condition to fight them off, he saw behind him the smouldering remains of their fire. He reached his free hand into his tunic, and pulled from it a small flask. He picked up a half-burnt log and poured the ale on the red end. It ignited in a flash of heat and light. The goblins were startled by the sudden blaze, and retreated a step. Alfirin took the chance, and ran at the right side of the goblins, pouring ale over the one closest to the wall of the cave. He tossed the torch, and the now lighted goblin ran screaming from his opponent, into the rest of the still-standing goblins. In the seconds of confusion he created, he ran toward the end of the cave.

At the entrance he looked up, found a suitable root, and hoisted himself up. He sat there, at the entrance to the cave, hidden in a small bush, while the goblins came, at last with confidence, out to search for he and his companions. He wondered vaugly if they had gotten far enough away...

[EverEve]

Eve stood outside of the cave. She had lost the others in the confusion of the attack of the Orcs. Surely they wouldn't have gone in? But, unless her Elf-ears decieved her, there were faint yells and battle cries coming from the darkness that was the cave. Alas for her companions if they had gone in. That place was no doubt filled with Orcs. With a sigh and a heavy heart, she wiped Orc-blood of her blade. There had been a brief scuffle nearby involving herself and the orc-scum, which had ended with those few who had managed to avoid her fierce blows, running in terror. With another sigh, she re-sheathed Vulcan, and prodded Malanna to walk towards the cave. The poor beast was exhausted, and scared out of his wits. She severely doubted he had ever seen an Orc or Goblin before, let alone be joined in a rage-filled battle with a group of them.

As she neared the cave, her aprhension over her companions grew. She dismounted her faithful steed, and continued on foot. She looked around. She saw several dead bodies lying scattered around the floor of the cave. At the sound of a faint moan, she looked up, startled. It was then that she saw Alfarin. "Dear Illuvatar..." she murmured, as she neared him. "What has happened?"

[Gothmog]

As Alfirin watched the lesser Goblins leave the area Two black arrows of the Orcs came flying out of the cave. One took him in the throat the other in the heart. He fell from the bush dead.

[Maedhros]

We were aghast when we heard Alfirin's words. We fought our way to the direction of the scream, we heard a struggle and saw several dead Orks in the vicinity then we heard Eve, who was kneeling outside the Caverns, weeping tears. Too late... I thought. We had slained many Orks, yet their numbers were too great for a confrontation, and he had Turig, Nildadari wounded and many others were tired of the battle.

I took Alfirin's body up, we must depart these caves now. We had been able to disrupt the Orks, and it will take them time to follow us. Caimarë and Eve, you must lead us East to these woods, so we can have piece for a while and bury our friend, and attend the wounded.

We must go fast, Caimarë said, these woods are perilious and the Orks will mount a raid and go after us. As we began our March, Caimarë took Eäritilia's supplies while Heregurth took Nildari's.

As I looked at Alfirin's face I wept because of my failure, it was my duty to protect every member of this company and this is the second time that I have failed. Namarië, Alfirin...... I don't know where Men's fëar go after death, but I have seen them depart from the Halls of Mandos to where they go from there I don't know but I have faith that it's a better place.

The dragon I thought...... that filthy beast must have had something to do with this. Even this far away, I still feel his presence, even though I cannot see him, I know that he's there. You will pay for your deeds, evil servant of Morgoth.

[EverEve]

Eve had watched in horror when she saw those arrows fly. She had known they would fly true. Surely this was her fault! If only she had run faster! If only she had thought quicker! If only...

Oh! how she had rushed to his side, only to find that she was too late to be any good! It was then she could no longer hold back her tears. As the first hot tears of pain and grief dropped from her eyes, she let out a terrible scream of rage and boundless sadness. Eve murmured softly over his head 'I am so sorry, Alfirin. I should have been able to save you.' And then she had sat quiet and weeping, touching the still-warm hand of her companion's corpse. If only she had been there sooner...

At long last, she heard Meadhros calling her out of her trance-like state. She knew she had not the heart to try to lead them into the woods. She was filled with too much sorrow; too shocked to be of any use. Her kin seemed of little comfort at the moment, for she was too guilt-stricken to think of much else at the moment. It was then she swore that she would have revenge on that Worm who had brought such pain to this Company. It was then, unbeknownst to her and him, that she and Maehdros became allies in yet another cause...

[Gothmog]

As the company left the cavern with Nildadari and Turig, with one last effort of spite the Goblin King grabed a Bow and arrow from the nearest Orc and shot. The arrow was heading straight for Nildadari!!!!!

[¤-Elessar-¤]

As Maedhros walked from the mutilated body, he found something in his hand, something he had not conciously picked up. It was the amulet that he had, so long ago, found curiously hanging from the neck of Alfirin. He looked at it, and suddenly, as though a mist had parted, he recognized it. From ages and ages, and a true lifetime in the past, it came to him. It was the symbol of his house, the symbol of the house of Feanor. His jaw slacked as he stared into it, as though something lay just beyond it's surface, an unknown answer to an unknown question.

And then it came to him, once again from the mist.
It was simple.
It was astounding.
It was painful, a wound to the heart and the soul.

Alfirin had been his nephew, the son of his wandering brother, the minstril Maglor... And he had been too late to save him.
Indeed, he felt, he had more than wrote a license for his death.

[chrysophalax]

Nildadari was saddened by the noble death of Alfirin and failed to see the peril speeding toward her. Pain and darkness filled her mind and she only knew that she was grateful for the rescue by her friends.

The Goblin King laughed harshly, triumph in his voice, yet to Nildadari, in her present state, he could do no worse than he had done and she had no more fear of him, only of the closeness and dark of the caves themselves.


Outside, perched far above them on the mountain's west-ward face, was Magnus, watching eagerly as the company began to emerge from the cave. His tongue lolling in anticipation, the great Dragon prepared to start a land-slide that, with any luck, would diminish the company further.

[Turgon]

Nildadari could no further, no matter how much Turig cursed her and urged her to move. Some blackness had settled on her spirit, she stood stock still on the slope leading down to the rest of the companions, her pale face a mask. The Brigand knew not what to do, surely there were orcs abroad in the foothills.

'Damn you Elf-maid!' Turig cursed. 'You'll get us both killed! We must move, and quickly too!'

Nildadari stared blankly at him, did she even know he was there? It was then that the shot came speeding from the shadows. Turig caught the faint hum of an ill-fletched arrow, and diving at the Elf-maid, knocked her to the ground. The two of them tumbling some distance down the rocky slope.

And as the two of them lay there, tangled together in uneasy embrace, and with Nildadari's breath playing sweetly across his face, Turig leant down and placed a kiss upon the soft-curve of her lips. Unknowingly almost, yet to him it seemed the most natural thing in the world; as natural as killing...

[chrysophalax]

Turig's kiss awoke her from the mist that had shrouded her mind and she lay for a moment in his arms, the taste of his lips on hers. Suddenly her eyes widened in horror as she stared upward and beheld the Dragon. She screamed, grabbed Turig and rolled aside under an out-cropping of rock as from above rocks came crashing down the mountain-side.

The others had managed to flatten themselves just inside the cave-mouth and as soon as the dust settled, they moved quickly down the slope, in hopes of finding Turig and Nildadari still alive. The fact that the Goblin King was still very much alive hastened their departure greatly.

Seeing the company scatter down the slope, Magnus launched himself from his high perch and dove down upon Maedhros, who turned swiftly and raised his sword defiantly. "Come ahead, fell beast!" he cried. Greater among your kind have I fought and yet lived!" Magnus slitted his eyes and hung in the air above them. "Brave words Elf-lord! Are you yet brave enough to save those whom you seek? I have rumour of thier dwelling place at long last. Soon their ancient guardian will think himself too cunning and my time will come to consumate your ruin!" The great Dragon laughed cruelly and spouted gouts fo flame down at the company before winging away north-eastward.

[EverEve]

Dust was swirling around the company, finally settling. In that moment, the small band of companions scattered. Eve stood alone, with no one beside her. She lunged out of the cave, hand on sword-hilt, blinking in the sunlight. Above her, the sun's light was momentarily blocked out by a terrifyingly large something. Looking up, she saw Magnus and flashes of fire, and not so far away from where she stood, she heard Maehdros curse it. Eve herself could hardly keep a harsh and bitter diatribe behind her lips, but in the end she did. "Maehdros, come! Help me find the others. We've barely enough time as it is. Those foul creatures will be out from under the mountain as soon as the sun's light is gone. We must be on our way to Mirkwood by then," she said. "Come!"

[chrysophalax]

With powerful strokes of his wings, Magnus headed for the western edge of Mirkwood. A certain wizard was known to dwell there and it had only recently been discovered by his spies for certain that he harboured two companions. These companions, both Elves it had been told him, had been observed being changed into bears. His tongue lolled in evil satisfaction. Radagast the old fool! He must be slipping not to think that someone would eventually discover his charges.

What a stroke of luck! Now he would have his revenge on one of the most ancient Houses among Elves and send Maedhros back to Mandos, vow uncompleted. His joy was such that he scorched an entire flock of sheep as he flew over and never bothered to eat a one of them.

[Elfarmari]

Not far from the cave entrance, Barahir dispatched the last orc left above ground, and slowly sank to the ground in exhaustion. What orcs lack in skill or intelligence, they made up for in numbers. After most of the company had gone down the tunnel, the foul orcs had blocked the entrance it, stopping Barahir from entering. More had come up from the woods, a hunting party of some sort apparently. Barahir had been forced to retreat to the trees to avoid being surrounded. Barahir feared the worst for his friend Alfirin, and although he was no King or elf-warrior, the orcs stood no chance against his wrath. Nonetheless, it had been a close call. The orcs were almost too many.
Sitting against a tree, Barahir assessed his situation. He was not seriously injured, but had many small wounds on his arms and legs. Pulling himself to his feet, walked towards the cave, hoping to find his friends. He arrived just in time to see the dragon fly away. A quick glance at the scene told him what he feared. Alfirin lay lifeless on the ground. Guilt crossed his mind fleetingly, but passed. The past could not be changed; Alfirin would not have wished to have his life saved by another anyway. Barahir knelt down beside his friends' body, kissed his lifeless brow, then bowed his head. His grief was too great for tears.

[Maedhros]

Yes, he must make haste. The others are hereby, I can hear their voices now. Come, I yelled, the dragon is in haste and heading east. Eve and the others begin to gather around. The dragon mocks me, for he knows of my torment and pain, and he would like nothing more than kidnap the twins that I once searched in Doriath.
As for the Orks, i don't think they will dare hinder us. If they come nevertheless, I will deal with them.
Caimarë and Eve, please lead our way. Our time grows short.

[Turgon]

The company made haste to leave that place of sorrow. The death of Alfirin had affected them all - Maedhros more than most. Yet another follower fallen into darkness, another companion lost. His mood was darker than the clouds gathering about the mountain heights. Just when leadership was needed the elf-lord had withdrawn into a world of pain.

They made the eastern foothills at nightfall, and making a cheerless camp amongst the rocky scree the company bedded down for the night. Most of their provisions had been lost in caves of the Great Goblin, and there were still many leagues to cross before they reached the eaves of the Mirkwood.

It would be a weary march.

[chrysophalax]

Dark forces were beginning to make their presence known throughout Mirkwood. An ancient evil was stirring at the southern edge of the great wood and with the advent of the discovery of Dior's sons by one of the evil minions of this power, Magnus had cause to rejoice in his dark heart. "Soon Elf-lord! Soon you will once again know suffering as you fail once more to save your kin. It will be my privilege to send you weeping back to Mandos."

As the company made camp, Nildadari found herself drawn to Turig, but told herself what had happened culdn'y have been real. She shook off what she felt was a moment of weakness brought on by the death of Alfirin and the orc attack. The fact that she caught him glancing her way several times as they bedded down and Maedhros took first watch, only made her the more comfused. At last, weary with trouble, she slept fitfully.

[Maedhros]

Mirkwood is the name of this ancient forest, Caimarë told me, then he went to sleep near his sister Nildadari and Turig. Heregruth as always kept a watch near Eve.
As I looked into the sky, i kept my watch on our party. Eäritilia seems very tired from this last ordeal, she seems like she wants to say something to me but when I go near hear, she lies down to rest. We all need our rest, she too, our times grows short and now our real quest begins.
Barahir seems fine, he is still a little wounded but he should be fine.

As I looked in deep in the forest, I'm haunted at the image of the place, it brings me memories of Doriath, that day when we attacked Dior and his people, the day that some of my brothers died. It was in a forest that my people abandoned the twins to perish in the forest. How could that happen with my own people? Had we become that perverted?
The dragon mocks me, even from afar i can feel his mind. From the very beginning of the quest, I have felt his presence, it's what we called Osanwe. He can grasp only certain parts of my mind as I can of his.

He has showned me that the twins lie in the protection of an ancient maia (wizards as they are called now). Was it a slip or is he baiting me. This time it's different Magnus, my purpouse is noble and remember, Day shall come again, the Night is passing.

[EverEve]

The night, with it's darkness and silence, wrapped itself around the small company. A mixture of grief and anxiety was so heavy on Eve's heart, it seemed that she could hardly breathe. As she bed down for the night, the true reality of what had happened that fateful day. And it was almost more than she could bear.

In the pale light of night, Eve observed her grief-stricken companions. Faintly, she could see the outline of Maedhros. His usually straight shoulders seemed slightly slumped to her eyes. Next to her, she could see Herugurth. She knew he would always be there. Slowly, her eyes became too heavy to hold open, yet, for a long while, sleep would not come...

[Mormegil]

Night turned to day, and Herugurth awoke from a night of broken sleep and strange dreams. Instinctively he turned to face Eve, making sure that she was OK.
As Herugurth glanced around the camp he saw that he was the first awake. He got up and strolled through the trees to see if he might catch some rabbits for beakfast. And sure enough, ten minutes later he returned to the camp with three slung over his shoulder.

As he entered the camp he saw that Meadhros was awake, "I thought you'd deserted us" Meadhros whispered to him.
Herugurth laughed and slung the rabbits to the ground, "No, just out getting some breakfast"

Herugurth began to skin the rabbits, and as he did this he asked Meadhros "Where are we heading next?"

[Gothmog]

They had escaped from the Great Goblin and were now able to continue on their quest. But the dragon flying around and causing land-slides on the mountains had attracted attention. In the shadows of Mirkwood something Dark and malignant turned its thoughts towards the place where they rested.

"An Elf, moreover one that should not be here in Middle-earth and in company looking for something. I must find out more of this strange thing."

As they prepaired to move on the creature in Mirkwood kept watch to find out where they were going and why!!

[Turgon]

Turig eyed the brace of coneys greedily, by his reckoning he hadn't eaten in two whole days. Even the hardy brigand had his limits. The battle under the mountains had taken much out of him, alas he was no leaf-nibbling elf, even now his stomach groaned in displeasure at it's empty state. He felt sure it was that which had woken Nildadari from her slumber. She gazed at him even now, making he feel most uncomfortable, and was that accusation in those bright elven eyes? He did his best to put the events of the previous day out of mind, wary of the reaction of his companion to that stolen kiss.

'Are you going to cook those?' he grunted to Herugurth. 'Or is the custom of your people to swallow small animals whole?'

Nildadari almost choked at this statement, the dark-elf was not a one to take such statements lightly. Turig however seemed unconcerned, and the elf-maid breathed easier when the brigand smiled and began preparations for a small fire. 'I thought not - roots and berries are more to your liking, eh? Just hurry up and skin those coneys elf... I for one refuse to march on an empty stomach...'

[chrysophalax]

Wondering at Turig's sudden gruffness, Nildadari rose from her bedroll, picked up her bow, slung her quiver across her back and walked off some distance from the camp, both to survey their surroundings, but also to escape her internal confusion each she met Turig's eyes with her own. "Fool!" she said to herself angrily, "He is mortal, not one of the first-born! What are you thinking?" She wished for once she wasn't on such distant terms with her sister, that she could confide her thoughts to her. But she turned away from those thoughts even as they sprang into her mind. She was far too independant for that.




In the north-west corner of Mirkwood, strange shadows and shapes drifted among the trees, shadows that had no business being where they were. Magnus sensed the stirring of malice that seemed to be coalescing near a certain cottage, no more than a mere hovel in truth, wherein dwelt what passed for a simplw man and his two companions ...

[Lhunithiliel]

Caimarë had woken up very early. It was still night although the stars high above were fading and the sky was growing pale. He first listened carefully. Silence. Sweet music could not have been more tender to his ears and soul than SILENCE ! After the fight under the mountains and the horror that almost broke his heart seeing his beloved sister being captured and then badly injured, after the burning sorrow at Alfirin’s death, after the terror under the shadow and fire of the fierce dragon, now the air was cool and SILENT! He was still lying his eyes shut and all his senses perceived with utmost delight that pleasure.

Then Caimarë opened his eyes and without even stirring he looked as far as he could. He saw the fire almost dead by now and he saw the silhouette of the Lord Maedhros by it. The High Elf sat motionless, his soul either floating far in the fair gardens of Lorien or his mind burning with heavy memories. Whatever the reason was, the Lord from the West sat still, his head bent and not a sound coming from him.

Caimarë then slowly roleld to his right and looked upon Nildadari. She was still sleeping. Her face was so fair and calm. He remembered how he used to love watching her sleep when they were but children. He still did. She looked so fragile and tender! Nothing like the brave elf-warrior that these hard times and cruel lands had turned her into!

A sound came to Caimarë’s ears. He listened. Herugurth! Where was he heading to? Hunting, perhaps? The thought came simultaneously with a sharp sense of hunger that he felt. Caimare smiled. Hunting!! We’ll see who’s a better hunter here!
He waited for Herugurth to disappear into the wood and got up quietly and slipped out of the camp as stealthily as a shadow.

The wood was dark, yet Caimarë could feel the presence of wildlife around. He went deeper among the bushes and the trees – a shadow amidst shadows in the coming early morning.

He now felt every part of his body – still young and strong. The fight on the previous day brought no serious wounds to him and now the cool morning air was healing what pain could have been left. He felt alive and full of desire to live all the years and ages of the immortal life the Gracious Eru had envisaged for him. Suddenly his thoughts were turned away from the forest, from the hunt from his little contest with Herugurth. He thought of Maedhros.

Ever since he first met him, Caimarë had felt deep respect for the High Elven Lord. So proud and yet so sad was he! For ages he had lived – alive and dead, having a fate to awe at…and to pity, perhaps. Strange! Caimarë felt no anger, no resentment towards the unfortunate hero of the past ages! No anger! No resentment! No!! Respect and sympathy – that’s what filled the heart of the young elf.

“I don’t care what he did in the past!”, his thought ran swiftly and as cool as the air around him. “Whatever he did he must have had some vital reason.” An oath… He sometimes had heard Maedhros speak of some oath! “That must be! A High Lord could have never broken an Oath! Not Maedhros!”

And at that hour of the Sun rising above the hushed wood , without knowing it, Maedhros gained a friend, a most loyal and trusted one in the face of the young elf Caimarë!

For in that particular magic moment when light pierced the shadows of the night, Caimarë swore a life-lasting allegiance to the High Elven Lord from the Blessed Realm.

Late! He was late! Now Caimarë remembered about the hunt and feeling a little annoyed, he involved all his keen senses to action.

Yet, now he felt somehow differently. He had found a cause, a purpose, an aim to live for and he felt complete!

[EverEve]

As the first rays of sun were making their way into the sky, Eve awoke from what seemed an endless night of troubled dreams. Her sleep had not been wonderful, but she at least she was more alert than she had been yesterday. Slowly, the Elf sat up and stretched her muscles. She looked around. Where was Caimare and Herugurth? And Nil for that matter!

Eve stood up, strapping her sword to her waist, and picking up her bow as she went. The fire was all but dead now, only the embers glowing softly near the bottom. It didn't take her long to realize she wasn't hurt badly at all. Bruises and some cuts here and there, but honestly nothing too bad.

Still stretching somewhat, she wandered over to the fire, near where Maedhros stood. "Good Morning..." she said to him. "Are you alright? Yesterday was hard on all of us...especially you..."

[Lhunithiliel]

Light were the feet and sharp the vision of young Caimarë while he was searching for game in the woods. His arrows sang as did his soul and the death they brought to the wildlife was like the mercy of Eru the Creator.

Elves, however did not hunt like the savage Easterlings, killing without any reason. Soon Caimarë gathered enough to be proud of.

“Herugurth shall finally have to admit my skills!,” smiled he and looked around to find the path to the camp.

And he truly saw one – a thin black ribbon winding around the mighty pillars of the ages-old pines or shying under the tender shadow of the leaves of the low bushes…

Caimarë stopped for a moment and wondered. He could not remember seeing this path before. And as it seemed, it lead to a direction a bit North – East from the camp. He looked around and listened. He could hear faint noises coming from his companions and he smelled the smoke of the camp-fire that someone had already revived in the cool morning…

“Well”, Caimarë thought, “everything seems quiet and calm. Someone has already brought breakfast. I bet Herugurth! But lunch will be abundant!…. Now, let’s see where this path will lead me…”

And thus, Caimarë carefully stored the hunted game on the branches of the nearest tree and after he had assured that the “precious trophies” were well hidden, he ran along the mysterious path.

North and a little East it lead and soon Caimarë noticed that it became straighter and wider. No tracks there were… at least no such of dangerous beasts or wild folk, nor elven or human… The soil that covered the path was strangely fine and totally black. Caimarë stopped for a moment and looked back to look at his own tracks on the path. There were NONE! It was as if he had flown not stepped on the firm ground!

“How strange!”, thought Caimarë. He hesitated for a second. Now he knew not what or who had passed along the same path before him and what of who might be waiting behind the next turn… But he also felt a strong desire to continue on! It was as if some power commanded his thoughts and his whole being – Go on! Find it!

Find it?!!!! What??!!!

No more hesitations; and the young elf ran on whereever the path lead.

In a few moments, for Elves run swiftly and Caimarë was very good runner, the young elf had passed quite a distance and he noticed that the path became wide as a road. On both sides there was dense vegetation, but he could see walls hidden under it.
Old walls. Ancient walls! …. And that strange speechless call that he was feeling!… It had become so strong… almost unbearable!

Caimarë slowed down his pace yet went on along the black road.
It was so quiet! Now he realized that even the usual humming of the wood insects was not to be heard, nor the merry singing of the birds… NOTHING!

He felt as if he had fallen into another world…. Or … could it be in another time?!

As he was thinking in wonder, he suddenly froze.

He could not believe what his keen eyes were looking at….

[Elfarmari]

Barahir lay, ignoring those around him. Not for the first time in his life, he envied the Eldar. Not for their beauty, their knowledge, their strength, or their long life. Only because of their knowledge that they would be reunited with their loved ones. They knew that upon dying, they would go to the Halls of Mandos. Here would all the Eldar be gathered, to be reembodied after purifying themselves. While not seeking death, the Eldar had little reason to fear it. It was not an ending, not a permanent separation. For men, the gift of Ilúvatar was to leave Arda, where Mortals went after death was a mystery. There was no way of knowing the fate of a friend killed in battle, a parent struck by old age, a sister murdered before her time. All these separations Barahir had now experienced, but this latest was the most harsh. After his mother's death, he had been comforted by her peace, by the knowledge that she had a full life. After his sister's, he had sought revenge blindly, finding comfort in this. Upon finding the murderer in the company of Maedhros, his plan was thwarted, but soon his attention was shifted to his friend, whom he had known for all his short years. Alfirin did not deserve to die. Not after finding, after all these years, his kin. Not after finally meeting his father's brother. Not after finding a cause he could live for. Not after being given the hope of acceptance by his people should this quest succeed. Not after finding life for the first time! All his life, Alfirin had searched for his identity. Finding this, he was in the same instant branded a murderer and outlaw. Barahir had willingly joined him in exile, and because of this Alfirin had joined him in seeking revenge. If only Alfirin could have lived to see their quest succeed! If only he could have lived to be recognized for what he was: the son of Maglor, the elf-lord doomed by the Silmarils and the Oath to wander the shores Middle-Earth until the End.

At least Alfirin had been allowed to meet his kin, to find a company where he was indeed treated as an equal.

Barahir could not clear his mind of these thoughts. If only, if only, if only. There was no reason to ask, no purpose in continuing to ask these useless questions. There was nothing else to do but try to fufill what they had begun-- to help Maedhros find redemption.

Having come to this conclusion, his thoughts strayed to the company. An Elf-lord, the brother of his friend's father, returned from the Blessed Realm, Elves who had lived in Middle Earth for many lives of men and were counted young, an outlaw, the murderer of his sister. This was perhaps the strangest. Upon finding Turig, he had forsworn his revenge temporarily, but unwillingly. Now, he pitied Turig, and understood him as he never thought would be possible. Now, they were the only Mortals left in the party.


Coming to an uneasy peace with himself, Barahir slowly sat up, leaning against a tree. Caimarë was gone, probably hunting. Herugurth was preparing his catch over a fire. He heard Eve speak to Maedhros. "Good Morning. Are you alright? Yesterday was hard on all of us...especially you..." A wave of bitterness swept over him, with the thought what did these elves know of hardship? They did not know the pain of death and separation. As soon as it came, it passed. Maedhros knew pain. He knew, had witnessed the pain. He had seen the bitter fruit of the kinslaying and the Oath. This is one who knew pain and bitterness. This is one Barahir could follow, would follow, until his death.

[YayGollum]

*not far to the north from where Caimare now stood, a bent figure in a brown cloak walked beneath the leaves accompanied by two companions, his two companions spoke softly to each other and the old man looked at them fondly, remembering --->

Many lives of men ago, he had found two elven babes in a forest, bodies laying all about them. They were hungry and crying and he had felt pity for them. At the time, he had been a spirit, one of the Maiar from before the creation of the world, and for the first time in his known existance, Radagast was bewildered. Before anything further could happen to these two, he found a bear couple and spoke to them, asking them to guard the twin boys. After overhearing the Valar speaking of the imminent destruction of the lands west of the Ered Luin, he made haste and sent the boys eastward with their bear guardians. Not long afterward, he and his fellow Istari were sent into the east, and he eventually found the boys in the forest of Greenwood the Great. Having assumed human form, he found that the twins were wild as they would have been, being brought up by bears. He won their trust and assumed their guardianship, bringing them to live with him in his dwelling in the north of the forest. His decision to keep them secret was not only for their safety, but for his companionship, even though he would not admit this even to himself. --->

A raven lighting on his shoulder shook Radagast out of his reverie and he listened as it spoke to him* "I have news. A party of elves and men have entered the forest and a few of them seem to be heading this way. Also, a dark spirit has been seen coming from the south. It is heading toward an old tower where we saw a young elf all alone. Be on your way and I will swiftly bring you word if I or my kin spy anything else." *the twins looked to Radagast curiously, for news that the ravens brought was always of interest to them* "Elured, Elurin, strangers have entered the forest. Until I can discover if they are of any danger, hand me your bows and quivers and go back home. Now be still." *the twins laid their bows and quivers on the ground and as they stood still, Radagast extended his hand and pointed his staff at them, muttering words of power.* In their place stood two brown bears looking up at him intelligently, one snorted to the other and they turned and began shuffling away from their mentor. Radagast's brow furrowed in concern* "A spirit in the south, eh? I remember from Saruman's last council that Sauron was on the move. I certainly hope that it is not he." *as he walked away, he did not notice the two bears turn back south for they had heard that there was one of their kin in trouble, and for the first time in their lives, they chose to disobey their guardian*

[chrysophalax]

A sudden chill swept through Nildadari and she headed back to camp, with the feeling that something was not right. There she saw Herugurth and Turig, still grumbling at each other, neither sparing her a glance. She didn't see Eve, but knew she was near. Maedhros too she sensed and Barahir as well, but Caimare...where was her brother? The hair on the nape of her neck stood up and she went to tell Maedhros that her brother might be in danger.

Turig watched as he passed by and his glance did not go unnoticed by Heruguth. Frowning, he tossed the dressed rabbits at Turig and bade him keep his eyes to himself. Turig responded with a rude gesture and was treated to a colourful stream of Elven profanity.

[Gothmog]

As Caimarë looked at the ancient tower he felt a strange presence, dark and baleful. He looked around but could see nothing but the trees and shadows. Whatever it was, it was close and it was evil.

As soon as Caimarë started heading towards the tower, the dark shape in Mirkwood had moved out to meet him. From the shadows the dark one watched as Caimarë looked all around and he thought "So you think that you can wander around here alone and be safe from me? Well it is time that I had words with you to find out just what you and your companions are doing in land". With a swift thought one of his creatures moved out to take the Elf prisoner.

Caimarë saw the creature but could not believe what he was seening. It could not be! The Nazgul had not been heard of since the fall of Sauron in the war of the Last Alliance!! Before he could do anything about it the Wraith struck him with the hilt of his sword. The last thing he heard was a hissing voice which said "My master wants you!"

The Necromancer of Dol Guldur looked on and then commanded that the Elf be brought to the dark tower within Mirkwood. "Soon I will know all he can tell".

[Maedhros]

As I sat here in the camp, I can't help but smile at the words between Heregruth and Turig, then and just then I noticed that I haven't smiled for a long time, my deeds and actions were dictated by an oath.

Just as I began to relax a little, I sensed something evil, a presence that should not exist in this place. I see Nildadari coming towards me, she seems anxious about something. Before she can speak I say: We must make haste everyone, evil is nearby, we have to depart now.

Nildadari then tells me about her brother Caimarë who is missing from our camp. We must find him before that evil presence. Led the way Nildadari, no one could track your brother better than you.

[chrysophalax]

The others began to hastily break camp as Nildadari ran on ahead. Her brother was the only one she had ever felt close to, who seemed to understand her and she would not allow anything to happen to him. She could sense his fear and it spurred her on. She put all thoughts of Turig out of her mind in her concern for her brother. She gritted her teeth, vowing to kill anyone that touched him.


Magnus circled lazily overhead watching the unfolding scene below him. He saw the transformation of the twins and he saw in which direction they went. His evil heart rejoiced. "Now, is the time, son of Feanor! Now is the time you will pay for presumption in returning. Your brother's kin will die and there will be nothing you can do. But first...this ancient one has worked his last magick." Magnus stooped and flew down to land before Radagast who drew back in surprise and narrowed his eyes at the Dragon.


"Forgive my curiosity wizard, but I happened to observe a most wonderous thing. I saw two Elves become bears. How is this possible? And more importantly...why?" Magnus settled down and stretched out his fore-legs, extending his claws lazily. The wizard froze. "What in Iluvatar's name was a Dragon doing here? Yavanna, give me cunning." he thought as he calmed himself. "Great One, where have you come from? I am known to every bird and beast in this forest and in the lands here abouts, but never have I beheld a creature so intimidating." The Dragon's eyes became lidded and he dug his claws into the soil. "Come now...let us not bandy words. I know that you are the guardian of a great Elf-lord's kin, an Elf-lord who's flesh I greatly desire. Give them to me and live. Give them not...and die." He rose to his full height and towered above the wizard. Radagast appeared to fall to the ground, then disappeared.

Magnus roared deafeningly and flames shot from his gaping maw. In anger so great he could barely see, he leaped into the air, and flew south.

[Turgon]

Turig cursed silently as he saw Nildadari sprint away, though he could not help but admire the ease with which she leapt from rock to rock. She had the grace of a mountain lion - fierce and fleet of foot, her hair trailing in the wind like a mane of tawny silk. But once again it seemed that trouble had found them, grabbing his axe and the beaten wreckage of his cloven shield, he jumped to his feet and sprinted after her. Alas - he was no elf, the mossy rocks were treacherous, and his booted feet found little purchase on them, he soon found himself falling behind. More than once he stumbled, crumpling into an ungainly heap with a string of profanities upon his lips.

'Nildadari!' He yelled upon one such occasion, as he lost his footing and tumbled headlong into a gulley. 'Curse you! Slow down...' Again when danger loomed the company had fallen apart... weren't these elves supposed to be the wise ones? Pulling himself to his feet Turig yelled again, he had lost sight of the elf-maid all together now. 'Damn you wench...' he muttered as he set off in search of her. 'You'll get us all killed...'

[chrysophalax]

Nildadari paused in her head-long flight as she heard Turig's cries from behind her. She was desperate to find her brother, but now her heart was divided. Cursing herself, she re-traced her steps and found Turig swearing heartily as he fought his way back up the side of the gully.

She stood at the top, her hands on her hips as she watched. She admired his determination and the fact that in his own gruff manner he seemed to care for her. "If only I thought he truly cared for me..." she thought, then shook her head. "We must aid Maedhros before anything else can take place." She crouched down and extended her hand to him, then pulled him up the last few feet. Looking him over, she satisfied herself he wasn't hurt, then turned and they ran side-by-side toward where she knew Caimare to be.

[Gothmog]

Caimarë awoke to pain and darkness. The Pain however was just because of the Blow that knocked him out and soon eased. The darkness was a different matter, he was in some kind of cell. Before he could start looking around a door opened and two orcs crept in. Caimarë would have quite happily strangled the pair will little difficulty but for that which stood behind them just outside the Cell.

He had not been mistaken then. It was one of the Nazgul. Sauron was no more so who then could control even one of these?

At the command of this creature the orcs grabbed Caimarë and dragged him out of the cell and along a corridor. At the end of which was a large door. Like the walls of this dark place they were black with a symbol carved into them. As they got closer he could see that it was the likeness of an Eye, open and with no lids.

The Door opened and Caimarë was brought before the evil presance within. Strong willed as he was there were few indeed even of the great Elf-Lords who could stand before the dread Necromancer of Dol-guldur. The will of this creature bore down upon Caimarë who tried as best he might to turn aside the questioning. But even as Finrod long ago he failed and fell. In doing so all that he knew was laid bare to the mind of Sauron The Necromancer.

So it is Maedhros returned from Mandos to seek the ones guarded by the wizard in these very woods. And Magnus is seeking them also. I think it is time that I spoke to that Dragon. But perhaps this Elf will be of some use to me.

With that He turned once more to Caimarë and spoke to him. "You will go back to your friends and that faithless leader. But when I call you will do my bidding". Caimarë was led out of the tower and sent with a troop of orcs back to the tower where he had been captured. At least when the company "Saved" him from the orcs it would not look like he had been released.

[Lhunithiliel]

Caimarë was brutally thrown down on the ground by the Orcs and they left him there lying near the ancient tower he had found this very early morning.
Long echoed in his mind the odious laughter of the hideous servants of Morgoth while they hurried away!

Then came silence. This time Caimarë did not enjoy it. For it was not the healing and peaceful silence of the woods but the one in his mind. Like a heavy black darkness it was! Darkness - eating his bright and keen elven mind! He tried to fight it. He tried to clear up his senses.

And then came the pain!
It cut his mind as a sharp blade and Caimarë shrieked aloud surprised at feeling it. And together with it flashed a red lightening! Right inside his head! And as if looking from aside with some inner sight Caimarë saw the eye – staring at him, lidless, flaming, red, commanding…
He could not escape from that vision! The eye held his mind, his senses, himself ! And it emitted commands and pain…. Such a sharp pain!

The young Elf cringed and took his head with both his slender hands, trying to free his mind from the vision and the pain it was bringing to him.

It passed…. He sighed with relief… He tried to remember what had happened to him… He tried to remember who he was and where he was…

Friends… Nildadari….. Maedhros….
Fair names and fair faces appeared in his tortured mind ….
Maedhros! Nildadari! Friends!…. He must warn them!…

Warn! Of what?… He made a new effort to think clearly … And the red lightening inside his mind was swift to strike again!!!! The pain returned and the burning eye set in flames his head with even a more fierce power.

He gave up…. The pain faded and the vision in a moment did as well…

And it was silence again…. And Caimarë let the darkness fall all over his mind. One thing he did understand – he could not fight it, cause it came from the eye!

He lay on the dusty road leading to the mysterious tower – senseless, miserable, not knowing who he was and what would happen to him. He cared a little about the future now.
When he woke up it was dark. The first thing the bright elvish eyes saw was the sky above and the thousands shining stars that adorned it. Caimarë took a deep breath and sensed the cool air that filled his weary body with some strength and relief. He stirred and lifted from the ground. He was all alone in the middle of nowhere…

For a few moments Caimarë sat and listened but could not hear anything else than the noises of the night. Slowly…very slowly and as if with utmost caution he let his thoughts flow. He did not understand why he should be cautious with his own thoughts, but somehow he knew he had to be careful with what he was thinking…. He felt as if he had to protect his mind from some horrible disaster.

Then he remembered everything - about his companions and about his hunt in the woods while the day was still young and fresh……He remembered finding a secret road and how this road had lead him to a strange tower…He remembered how he was surprised to see no tracks of his feet on the dust on that road….He remembered…. A blow ….and …..

Darkness!
He remembered no more!
Darkness filled his mind and…......fear.

[Snaga]

Eäritila walked lightly behind Maedhros, but her mind stumbled blackly. Her escape from the tunnels beneath the mountain had been simpler than she would have guessed, but part of her was still filled with the noisome darkness.

Tangles of brambles seemed to bar their way out of the steep sided valley, but whether by instinct or some elvish magic they made their way through hidden paths never faltering. The scent of nettles and wild flowers thickened the air, but Eäritila heeded it not. The air chilled her and she shivered, and wondered for it seemed the first time that the world had seemed so cheerless.

In her mind she ran endlessly through tunnels of blackness. Running. On and on. Faster and faster. But she was not running from fear but towards it. Drawn not from evil but to it. And then her feet would splashing to water and she would jolt back to the bright and cold of the mountains… but for a moment. For the waking world seemed but a dream…

There was Maedhros. Why did he look at her like that? She began to open her mouth to speak… but stopped. Anger grew.

The dark waters hissed and she shuddered. She backed up and the ripples scampered on the edge of her dream. Eäritila paused in the darkness and listened for the sound of orc-feet behind her. Silence except a whisper. What was that? She remembered a thought but couldn’t reach it. It dangled tantalising, niggling. She groped towards it and then recoiled from its touch. It felt loathsome, appalling, but intriguing.

She looked around wildly, where was she? Waters dripped, was there rain on the leaves? Gnarled trees curled and grasped towards her. Maedhros was ahead, shining, like light in a doorway. Blackness closed around her.

She was back in the cave and there seemed to be a boat but no oarsman. A hiss, was it fear? Her bright eyes strained, she could discern noone but the feeling of evil grew. There it was again, like a voice in her mind. She stared out across the water, fixated. Then, she shook herself and she sat hunched down and thought. How long had she stood and stared? She did not know. The boat had gone, like a dream.

I must get out! Our quest awaits! I must find Maedhros. Maedhros! She thought of his fair and timeless face, sad and noble. Noble? What is his claim to nobility? Remember your kin, your home in Alqualonde. What are you doing here? Your father, your family gave you not their blessing. You broke allegiance to your people to come hither, to the dark places of the earth, full of foulness and despair. And for whom? He who slew your people. Maedhros stood proudly at the prow of white ship, but blood dripped from his sword.

She shuddered, and almost cried out. She roused herself and was stumbling off the path, tangling into thorn-bushes blindly. Ai! Elbereth! Blood was before her eyes. It was the blood of mariners of the Teleri hacked down by savage swords, it streamed into her eyes as she cried. Ai! Vengeance!

No.. but it was her blood, a savage thorn-needle had cut her. The pain aroused her. ‘Where am I?’ she cried violently, raging. ‘Where is the black king? The Eye is upon us!’

[Elfarmari]

Barahir had followed Maedhros, but became worried when he saw the strange behaviour of Eäritila. He felt great evil ahead, but had not the senses of the Eldar. He saw her watching Maedhros, saw her eyes cloud up with . . . . what? Rage? Fear? Vengeance? He could not tell. When she ran madly from the path, paying no head to his cries, he followed her. Her violent cries shook him. Uncertain what to do, he simply knelt beside her.
"I know not of what you speak, but great evil awaits us. Were it not for Caimarë, I would urge us to flee this foul place. Come, we must not be separated, we must follow Maedhros."
Eäritila's eyes smouldered when she heard the name.
"What has brought you to hate him? Have you not followed him this far? Had you not good reason to forsake your kin to help him fufill his quest? Do not allow this evil being to estrange even our company, if you hold Maedhros in contempt now, you are only bowing the wishes of the Black Foe."

[Snaga]

'The Black Foe?' cried Earitila wildly. 'Where?' She swung round, as if expecting to see him. 'Where, where is he?'

Then she looked at Barahir, her face in fearful apology, and hugged him desperately. 'I am sorry. I don't know what is amiss with me... my dreams are drawn back to the blackness of that cave. I cannot shake it.' He felt her shuddering in his arms.

Then she drew away becoming aware of herself once more, and stood proudly again. She forced a pale smile. 'You are right of course. Now is not the time to break faith... come! let us go. I... I am better.'

She stared ahead at their path, and would meet noone's eye. The gleam that Barahir had often seen in her appeared clouded now.

[chrysophalax]

Two young bears trotted swiftly through the trees, eagerly scenting the air. The brothers had been intrigued to find that one of their race was so close and in danger and they had been warned to stay hidden, yet this time something was different. It was not long until they came upon mingled scents, both Elven and something...other. Something that raised the hackles on their backs. Instinctively they growled and split apart, both looking anxiously for the one they now knew to be in grave peril.

[YayGollum]

Radagast watched the dragon fly off and let out a sigh of relief. He shook his cloak as he allowed himself to become visible again, then suddenly remembered the twins. If they had done as he told them, the dragon would not find them, but he knew that with a dragon around, you can never be too careful. With a little concentration, he quickly transformed into a stag and leaped off to the north towards his hut. Even before he burst through the flap and saw that noone was there, he knew that they must have disobeyed him. There were no tracks, no scent, no signs whatsoever that they had been anywhere near recently. He caught the eye of a raven that was perching on a tree and eating some bug. "Tell your brothers to follow the dragon. We could be losing the elves to it this day!" The raven finished his snack, then lazily flew off. Radagast glared as well as he could as a stag and ran off to try tracking the elves from where he last saw them. He remembered what the dragon said about an elf-lord in the forest and wondered what that had to do with his wards.

[Maedhros]

As we neared the Tower, I could sense the feeling of unesiness on my companions.
That black mists, invisible that came out of the Tower, I have felt something similar a long time ago....

Our father was slained, Morgoth feined a treaty with us. I convinced my brothers to trick Morgoth and to end this war. I was the one who was fooled by that evil Vala. Just when my party was being defeated I saw that some of them stopped fighting, I felt with each passing moment black thoughts entering my mind, trying to extinguish my will. Our party was destroyed, and I was made captive with the purpose of stopping the war against Morgoth.

All of the time that I spent in Thangorodrim, the pain, the agony, I can still remember the dark thoughts of surrender, hopelesness. I just wanted to die but I couldn't forsake my being, my will nor my word. When Fingon came, it was easier, he could have ended my torment with death. That would have been an honorable death, Morgoth's will would have been twarted, and I had survived my trial. Yet my friend saved me in my time of greatest need.

I feel now the thoughts of Eëaritila and Barahir in my mind and I'm shamed. Are they wrong for doubting me, who participated willingly in the Kinslaying of Alqualondë? Me, who instigated other kinslayings as well. Am I better than this servant of Morgoth?
The answer doesn't comes from me, but from Manwë, who sees most clearly the mind of Ilúvatar. He saved me once when he send Thorondor to aid Fingon and he gave me another chance to redeem my faults.

Nildadari and Turig had gone ahead of us, wait I see them now. Quick follow me and be prepared. We must use secrecy to rescue Caimarë. There's a little door which suits our needs.
Heregruth, who shall be with me in the front. Nil, Eäritila and Eve will be in the middle. Turig and Barahir will be in the back.

Hang on Caimarë we are coming, I will not let anything happen to you.

[Turgon]

Turig did his best to put all thoughts of Nildadari out of his mind, blood and hard-struck blows, now that was something he could understand! For now Nil would be a comrade in arms, someone whose back he would watch just as she would watch his own. It was simpler that way, emotion in battle often lead one into the grave. Perhaps once again he was shying away from his feelings, but in all honesty...

Just then Turig heard a low moaning coming from the woodland to his left. First an almost imperceptable mumbling and then rising and falling like the tides of the great ocean, a name. 'Nil... Nildadari... Nil... Nildadari...' He turned quickly to Barahir, but it seemed the ranger had heard it already, drawing his sword the young warrior was sprinting towards the source of the cries. It was Camarië's voice.

'Nildadari, Maedhros!' The erstwhile brigand yelled. 'Quickly, we have found him!' With that Turig turned on his heel and following Barahir set off down the narrow trail. The path was thick with tangled briars, no wonder they had not seen it when they passed by. The brigand cursed silently as he followed hard upon the Dúnadan's heels. He just hoped they were not too late.

[chrysophalax]

Nildadari ran swiftly at the sound of Turig's voice, fear of what she might find filling her mind. She saw Turig, Barahir and Maedhros already gathered around Caimare and she fell to her knees at his side. "Caimare...ai! What has happened to you?" she said softly as she ran her hand over his brow. He opened his eyes and found they would hardly focus...Then he heard the sound of raised voices not far off. Maedhros drew his sword and along with Barahir, went to discover what new peril lay at hand.



In stag form Radagast leapt swiftly through the woods, scenting the wind for the twins. Never had he felt such panic in all his long years as he felt now for the young Elves. "Iluvatar...why did they not listen? Has the accursed blood of Feanor risen in all its pride at last to claim them?" He ran as swiftly as he could, desperate to reach them before the Dragon could spot them.

After what seemed an eternity, Radagast found them , loping along, noses to the ground, searching, scenting, wuffing to each other at each new smell the wind carried their way. Radagast transformed with a thought and cried out to them. They stopped and spun about, snarling. When they saw the wizard, they shuffled in the leaves, growling softly. At a gesture from Radagast, they returned to Elven form and immediately they began talking at once, telling him that the Elf they sought was close, very close. "Fools!" he shouted, his patience gone. "Know you that the Dragon seeks you and the son of Feanor as well? He will kill you both if he finds you!" The urgency in Radagast's voice and the sudden appearance of tears in the old one's eyes gave them pause and they glanced uncertainly at each other.

At that moment the trees parted and they spun, only to be confronted by a tall Elf-lord, power emanating from him as visibly as the sun which shown above. Elured gasped as he moved toward them slowly, a look of wonder and something...was it pain? on his face. Barahir hung back, unable to guess what this moment meant to Maedhros. Above, an enormous shadow blocked the sun...




With a shriek of triumph, Magnus plummetted from the sky. At last his moment had come. But first, he would make him suffer....
He landed in the midst of the group, lashing his tail with devastating force. Barahir flung himself to the ground as it swung over his head, reducing a sapling to splinters. Turig burst through the trees only to stop dead at the sight of the Dragon in all his glory, towering above Maedhros who stood fearless, undaunted by Magnus' display. Coiling swiftly around, Magnus pinned Elured to the ground as Radagast flung himself instinctively in front of Elurin. "Maedhros, Elf-lord..." the Dragon hissed, "Behold, at the moment of your triumph, you fail yet again. Do not be so foolish as to think that I will not kill this one whom you love." He snatched him up, his claws digging cruelly into the young Elf's side. Elured cried out in terror. "Radagast....help me!"

Elurin struggled to get to his brother, but Radagast kept him down, his heart wrenching within him. "I will come for you, Dragon! You will never be able to hide from me!" he cried. Magnus rumbled low in his chest. "You have doomed this one to death with your words, old one. But not here, not now. Know that I will take great pleasure in finding his heart, for it has been too long since I have savoured the sweetness of Elven flesh!"

The Dragon launched into the air, Elured's cries ringing in their ears. Radagast leapt to his feet and attempted to change into a giant Eagle, but he found himself weak, too drained to complete the transformation. He turned to Elurin, "Come, let us find the Dragon and rescue Elured." Elurin made as though to follow, then turned again to Maedhros, who's eyes were shining as flame. "Kinsman, come with us! Help us save my brother!" Maedhros nodded grimly and they set off in the direction whence the Dragon had flown...toward the Tower.

[Snaga]

Eäritila cried out with grief. 'Ai! The cursed worm! What ill-fortune dogs our steps?'

Her hands had fitted an arrow to her bow. I marked you once before, and I will do so again! she thought. But she did not shoot, for fear of harming Elured. She threw her bow down in angry frustration.

'This is your fault!' she said to Maedhros, her eyes flashing dangerously. 'Your selfish quest has brought danger upon these twain. For them the long ages of the world have brought but peace and innocence, except when you are nigh!'

She stared at him, and a storm raged behind her eyes. She felt the shocked eyes of the others upon her. Then, suddenly ashamed, she lowered her head. 'Forgive me, I don't know why I said that...'

[Gothmog]

Within the Dark Tower, the Necromancer looked out on the group during Eäritila's tirade. It seemed that the thoughts of some at least of the companions could be guided. This along with the presence of the elf Caimare should make it easy to start trouble between the followers of Maedhros.

[Lhunithiliel]

In the total chaos, confusion and pain Magnus brought , Caimare was forgotten. Even Nildadari had stepped away from him and she was still standing there tense and trembling with fury for not do being able to do anything to prevent the tragedy.

Meanwhile Caimare had found strength to get up on his feet and when Nildadari turned back face to her brother she saw him holding his blade with both hands, ready to strike... What at?!
Even the High Elf-Lord could do nothing to fight the malice of the mighty dragon. Caimare felt bitter and he could feel the immense grief that was cat over their little group.
Then he heard the words of Eäritila.
"'This is your fault!' she said to Maedhros, her eyes flashing dangerously. 'Your selfish quest has brought danger upon these twain. For them the long ages of the world have brought but peace and innocence, except when you are nigh!'"

"Ney, fair maiden!" - Caimare's voice, though very quiet, as if banged in the momentary silence that had fallen. "It is not Lord Maedhros to blame for the misery and misfortune of these lands! There are powers - evil and monstruous, that take pleasure to see faith destroyed, friends parted, kins lost... "
Caimare was speaking with difficulty, yet his voice was getting stronger. Now everybody was looking at him and Nildadari quickly returned to him and tried to hold him. He now seemed so fragile... Yet, there was some strange fire in his elven eyes - a firy look she had never seen. Caimare stood firmly still holding his blade.
He made a pause while his words reached everyone's troubled mind. Strange, but one by one they all looked at the tower.
Then Caimare's voice came again.
"I know who rules there! I know what he wants..." He stopped and people could see his kind face now tortured as if by some severe pain.
"Caimare!" - Nilddadari cried. "What is it?! What pain makes you suffer so much!" And she cried.

"He is perilous beyond any evil I have ever seen or heard of", went on Caimare with a trembling voice. "Flame he masters ....and ...Orcs... and wolves ... But no friendship he has with the Dragon"...

[Snaga]

'Come let me tend you. You are hurt, I perceive! But where is your wound?' said Eäritila quickly. She felt the looks of concern and even suspicion upon her, and welcomed a chance to change the subject.

She sat him down, and knelt beside him, but saw no bleeding. Only pain and torment of the mind: her eyes met his. She flinched away, suddenly, her mind filled with horror. 'Ai! Caimare! What has happened?' she cried, her hands over her eyes.

Slowly she took them away, and tears were making crystal paths upon her face. 'Alas, some terror is upon him. His cure is to finish our task. There will be no other healing.'

She straightened, and turned her bright eyes towards the tower defiantly.

[chrysophalax]

Elured screamed in terror as he was lifted from the ground and Magnus snapped at his face, silencing the Elf. "Silence, young one! There will be time and enough for that later for where I am taking you, the one who will be your companion has been at a loss for living company for a very long time. I'm certain he will be more that pleased that I bring him someone to amuse him."

The Elf could hear his brother calling for him and for the first time in his life, he knew fear, fear so over-whelming that he felt he would go mad. Radagast had always protected him, where was he now?

[Snaga]

Then Maedhros led them on, and the tower glowered down at them, so the golden rays of the sun seemed to lose their potency, and a cold fear seeped into the hearts of them. Maedhros seemed not to heed it, and his step was light and confident. His will held them to their course.

Turig stayed close to Caimare, fearing his pain would return. And though he did not waver, all could see him wincing at the sight of the dark tower.

Earitila walked, and fingered her bow. 'I must not doubt my course now!' she told herself. 'I must persevere, if only to rescue Elured from that foul worm of Morgoth!'

The thorny bushes seemed to close about them, and groped talons at their clothes, and their leaves turned from green to near black, as though a sickness corrupted their growth. They twisted in foul form, and the smell of growing things seemed to fade to a noxious scent of decay. The path was hard and stony, grey jagged shale that crunched, and dissolved into unclean muddles at their feet. Clouds chased across the sky darkly, and the sun hid her face. A bird flew and sat upon the leafless branch of a dead tree that haunted their route. Earitila looked up at it, but shuddered for its eye was unfriendly. With a harsh call it shook its unkempt feathers, and took flight.

The tower, that had from afar, seemed to be of not great height, now loomed up on huge pier of rock thrush out from the mountainside. They saw a wearisome climb was a head of them, as the path scrambled up the steep slopes. Here and there, they saw evidence of orcs, and other beasts besides. Turig's sharp eye saw a discarded iron shoe at first. Later there was a sign of some dispute between their foul kind: a pool of blood, and a headless corpse, cast aside and hanging upon the claws of the thorn-bushes. Earitila saw the grisly signs of ravaging teeth, as though some predator had torn at the remains. Wolves, perhaps.
At other places their filth was strewn and smeared, and flies swarmed. Earitila's stomach churned in growing disgust, and she sighed. A Elbereth! Gilthoniel!

She turned and paused seeing Turig and Barahir labouring up the gruelling climb, as the air thinned and they left the dreadful thorns and found themselves on a barren incline of harsh rock. They were forced to scrambled up a way that was broad and clearly marked, yet hard and steep, so their fingers ached from clutching at cracks in the rock. After a great effort they reached a narrow ledge, hauling themselves onto it on by one, each helping the companion who followed. Earitila glance upwards. At the top of the slope was the base of the tower, and it was now but thirty or forty feet above their heads, but the way disappeared. Earitila said to Maedhros who had stopped, 'You have missed the path! Surely this climb is wrong.'

But he put his finger to his lips, and said in a voice that was scarce more than a whisper in her mind, 'I came this way so we would not alert the guards. Look up!'

Earitila craned her neck, to peer up above them again. At first she saw nothing, but then saw the form of orcs, as they stood guard by the gateway into the tower above. Three or four she thought.

[chrysophalax]

As they began the ascent, Nildadari could feel Caimare's pain returning, his thoughts dark and conflicted. She gritted her teeth in an attempt to keep her head clear. The Dragon's appearance this time had shaken her and fear was threatening to over-whelm her. Too much had happened. She had nearly died..twice, had almost known love, her brother had been captured by a foul spirit and was now a mere shadow of himself. With all her heart she wanted to turn to Turig, to bury herself in his arms and feel safe...safe... she nearly laughed aloud. What could that word possibly mean?

A fey mood came over her and she began climbing faster, giving no heed to silence or stealth. She only wanted to kill, to cause the same pain and grief she was feeling to her enemies. Maedhros cursed under his breath, knowing the guards above her surely spot her.

[Elfarmari]

Barahir saw Nildadari climb faster, abandoning caution. Before the guards atop the wall could spot her, Barahir caught her heal, forcing her to stop her careless advance and take shelter behind some bushes.

"I have no elven-senses, but even I can feel your pain and confusion. Let Maedhros lead; he knows more of strategy and battle than you or I. What good would it do any of us for you to be captured? There will be time to cause our enemies pain without risking ourselves. We must be stealthy if we wish to save to two elves we seek."

[Maedhros]

We were almost in the gateway, there were four guards there now. I bade the company halt, we are far too many to take them unawares.

Heregruth will come with me, the rest of you follow us when I give the sign. We are about to enter the Tower of the greatest servant of Morgoth, our only hope of success is in our secrecy. Only the Valar knows what we will find in there, but we cannot break this tower by force alone. We must find the Necromancer as fast as possible and rescue Eluréd. These dark thoughts in your heads will only get worse as we deepen in this Tower, focus on good deeds and they will get you through.

I went up with Heregruth. Some tricks work the same no matter when they were invented. Heregruth threw a rock in the opposite direction of the guards, they were momentarily distracted, which gave the opportunity to slay two of them, and when they saw me, they didn't notice Heregruth besides them, they were dead before they could draw their scimitars. We hid the bodies and gave the signal. Now it's when the danger begins......

I remember, I was in the Fortress of Himring, after the Dagor Bragollach, I dwelt with a strong folk and with my brother Maglor, and then from nothing came my brothers Celegorm and Curufin. I was glad at their coming but why were they alone, what happened to their folk and why were they in such shape.
Are you ok, me and Maglor asked. Yes they answered, we were attacked by a band of Orcs and our company was slained. Curufin's horse was stolen and so was his precious knife.
Then where is Huan, your hound Celegorm, it has always warm my heart his presence and loyalty. But when I saw the looked on their faces, I knew that they were hiding something from us. They would not touch again the subject nor I asked them about it again. I found out about their deeds later though.
Our time had grown short in ME, Morgoth was going to destroy of all the Eldar if we didn't unite against him. My friend Fingon understood this also and he gave me his help, I was sure that my cousin Finrod Felagund would have helped us with his force of Nargothrond, especially now that he was aided by Celegorm and Curufin in the Bragollach. It was then that they told me the truth about their departure from Nargothrond. How they intended to blackmail Thingol with Lúthien and how they left our cousin Finrod to die with Sauron. I almost raised my own sword against my brethen. We are fighting Morgoth, who is the evil of this World, the slayer of our grandfather Finwë, we do not use his methods as our own. Shame on you. After that day, I saw them with different eyes. I vowed that if I could somehow avenge my cousin I would do so. And now here I am.......

The Inside of the Tower was filled with barely lit hallways. It is odd that this place is not that well guarded. Has he expected our move and is tending a trap for us. It doesn't matter now, there is no going back from here. As we moved through the Hallways, we encountered some resistance, fortunately we had the advantage of surprise and they hadn't notice our presence in the Tower.

We had gone up two levels, I feel his presence more strongly now, his conjures of my awful deeds in my mind are almost overwheliming me, but I will not let him get the better of me. I survived Thangorodrim. But where is Eluréd, I cannot feel his presence.
There is something about this Hallway, about that door. Is that is where the Necromancer lies? But where is his guard? We have slew some, but not that many. Is it luck or are we doomed? Be prepared for anything. I will go first. I kicked the door down, and there there was someone sitting in an elaborated chair. His eyes cold as death, and he said:
"Welcome Maedhros, I have been expecting you ........."

[Snaga]

The dread that had been upon Earitila had grown tenfold with every step they climbed. Now in front of this door she halted, her mind recoiling as from an unknown horror. She was rooted, and even as she heard the words spoken to Maedhros, in her mind a voice plaintive and persuasive spoke. In her mind's eye she saw her father, weeping on the quay of Alqualonde, the dying body his brother in his arms as life ebbed away. And the sting of sea spray was a tears as the blood-stained ship of the Teleri passed across the sea, and the voice said: 'When will your people have vengeance? How shall this be put aright?'

And she put dropped her bow with a clatter, so that she might block her ears, and in her heart she cried: 'Nay! I will not listen!'

Then she saw her father, stricken as he found the berthing place of her ship Lintaiwë was empty. 'Where now is my daughter?' he seemed to ask, and was answered: 'She has betrayed you, and gone to Middle-Earth with Maedhros, son of Feanor.' And she saw his rage, and her heart filled with shame and pity of a sudden. And the voice said. 'Strike him down now... strike Maedhros down and regain your father's love, and gain vengeance for your people.'

And she could not move or speak for the thought grew within her, and she fought it with all her strength.

[Elfarmari]

Barahir had long ago put thoughts of revenge and bitterness behind him, but in this dark stronghold all evil was magnified. A voice inside, not entirely his own but not entirely alien, called him a coward, a traitor to his sister for failing to exact revenge for her death, a failure as a guardian of her and of his mother, a coward for allowing the Elves to stop his revenge, an outcast from his own people. Why had he not killed Turig? Turig was a bandit who killed anyone in his way with no regard for life. Why had he joined the elves as a companion of a murderer? Why had he defended Alfirin? What good had it done either of them? Alfirin was dead and Barahir was an outcast, following an elf with blood-stained hands on a hopeless quest.

No. Barahir refused to listen to the voice. He knew from whence it came, he knew the blackness in the heart of that Dark Lord, he knew that Sauron desired nothing more than the destruction of all who opposed him, all of that was good.

With little hope in his heart, but with a resolve undaunted by the black thoughts of the figure on the throne, Barahir stepped through the door, feeling the Dark One's presence as an almost palpable gloom. The tall ranger stood stolidly behind Maedhros, not knowing what the Elf Lord would, or could, do now.

The dark whispers in his mind continued, but Barahir did not listen. While guilt and insecurity raced through his mind, his eyes remained fixed on Maedhros while with his whole being he prayed that Eru would not let this quest fail. The Elf-Lord stood tall and proudly, not with the pride of arrogance but with the conviction that he was right, that this time he would not allow evil to prevail. The Dark Lord sent his shadows and doubts throughout his fortress, but the minds of the company he could not penetrate. As Melkor's influence from the Void is through long-planted seeds of mistrust and hate, so could Sauron spread his wishes. He can put many things into the minds of Elves and Men, but they do not belong to him.

[Lhunithiliel]

Caimarë stepped into the twilight of the entrance passage of the tower. Cool air and silence embraced his senses yet did not bring relief nor pleasure. Some of his companions stood around him, but some have gone too far inside the halls of the tower. Maedhros was not around. Where had he gone? Was he safe?!
Safe!!! Who could be safe in this place where pure Evil reigned in all its powers!
Caimarë took a closer look at the faces of his companions. Strange! They all seemed as if wandering in some distant worlds, far from here – the reality that needed from them the utmost caution and vigilance!
“This is his work! “ thought Caimarë. “He is a Master in conquering and ruling minds!” Oh! Caimarë knew the twisted delight the Black Power felt when playing with his mind and he was now sure the same had befallen on his friends. He could see the tense expressions on their faces and the fire in their eyes lit by the painful struggle to free themselves from the grip of the evil thoughts treacherously creeping into their minds – getting stronger and stronger….whispering evil words….drawing pictures of despair…calling for revenge and death… confusing, evil, putting on fire any cool reason and any good intention and belief…..

And then…… in the evil dusk of that evil place, in that evil hour, in that evil-heavy silence …a sound was herd! A most unexpected it was! Yet, so healing, so freeing the mind, so strong with the light it was bringing….
For Caimarë sang! Very quietly, almost whispering….but the flow of the elvish song broke through the twilight and through the dark thoughts that had almost completely enthralled the minds of his friends.
And it won over darkness and Caimarë’s companions broke from the perilous state the evil breath of this place had brought them into. And the dark thoughts of despair or revenge and suspicion disappeared and the company breathed again with ease.

Caimarë’s song hushed away. And it was again silent and dark, but no fear nor tension they felt any more.

“Come!” Nildadari said. “We should hurry on ! We have to find Maedhros.”
“I know where he might be” said Caimarë quietly. “Follow me”

And he led the group through the passages right into the very heart of the tower of Evil.

[Snaga]

At Caimarë's song Earitila woke with a start. Dark dreams vanished as if a beam of light like the sword of Menelmacar had hewn clear through the night. She gasped, perceiving how close her peril was. She recalled words spoken perhaps in haste yet never once regretted, as she alighted on the shores of Middle-Earth, and taking up her bow she murmured them again, and as she did her voice grew in strength and resolve

'Therefore I shall go with you, wheresoever you shall go. Your task shall be my task. And I will not have peace until it is accomplished, nor yet shall I let you turn from it. Even my life I will give to its end, yet shall I say this too: your life too Maedhros, shall be forfeit to its completion. Turn aside, and I shall slay you for your treachery, yea and gladly knowing the ills you have done. This do I swear in the name of all the peoples of the Teleri, and in the name of Manwe, Lord of the Blessed Isle, and I hold all the Valar in witness. For such a terrible oath thou spoke once before, and so I take this one for the undoing of its evil.'

Then befell the battle between Sauron, most fell captain of Morgoth, who is called Gorthaur and Maedhros One-handed. And in that battle there was little aid that any of the company could give the son of Feanor, for the Dark Lord was a foe beyond any of them, and in that moment even as they through off the shackles of their bewilderment they were set upon by many foes that came at their masters bidding. And they were led by Khamul, black-hearted Nazgul and with him came a host of orcs. Earitila's bow sang, and the swords of her companions ran with black blood. But Maedhros was beyond them, and fought alone with Sauron, and they fought with arms and with song;

Forth sprang Maedhros
Meeting menace with rage
Danger darkening his face
Lunging and leaping
Sword held left-handed
Sweeping and cleaving

But up loomed Gorthaur
Awful and demonic
The mace falls crashing
Shattering, destroying

Then Feanor's son was not dismayed
And Felagunds fall he recalled
In days far-off in Tol Sirion
And lifted his voice in elven song

His voice was strong
His words were clear
A defiant song
Of victory near
Oaths kept
Trust regained
Wounds healed
Wrongs arighted

But Sauron laughed
And darkly chanted
Of hearts hurt
Friends betrayed
Fortresses fallen
Kinsmen killed
Of pain and danger
Of fear and death
Of staunchness stained
And despair defeating

Yet Maedhros then recalled the light
Of glorious Valinor Undimmed
Before the coming of Ungoliante
Before the death of Feanor's father
Then burning bright gem-fire white
And golden Tree-light forever gemmed
Shone in his elven eyes undaunted
And shone too clear for Sauron Gorthaur.

Then Maedhros striding chasing beating
Sauron hiding fleeing retreating
Darklings creatures fearing quailing
Darkness clearing, evil failing.

[chrysophalax]

In the face of Feanor's son, Maedhros the One-handed, Sauron and his minions fled the field, wailing away south-ward to the crumbling fortress of Dol Guldur, there to feed his ancient malice.

Another, much more pressing danger soon drew the attention of Maedhros' company, for Magnus had not been idle. Elured was suffering, caught in the clutches of the great Dragon. He was alone atop the highest parapet of the tower and with all his strength he called out for Elurin. They had never been separated and the terror that filled his mind made him easy prey for the machinations of the Dragon.

Below in the lower reaches of the tower, Elurin stumbled and nearly fell. He clutched the wall as he felt his brother's call. Nildadari was nearest to him and she when swiftly to his side. He looked at her with wonder, for he had never seen a female of his own kind before. She bore his scrutiny briefly, then asked him what was wrong. "It is my brother! The beast has taken him and he is frightened. We must save him!" The pleading lookin his eyes in addition to the fire that within him fueled the strength in her own heart.

"Maedhros, lord!" she called, her voice high and clear as it carried through the rooms nearby. After a moment, Maedhros came and stood with them, looking in earnest at his kinsman. Nildadari told him of Elured's plight and his eyes kindled to flame. Magnus had plagued him too long...it was time to destroy the Dragon, once and for all.

[Maedhros]

The evil dragon rejoiced at the pain that he inflicted on Elúred, yet he would not kill him. The sheer pleasure that the dragon got from tormenting me with the twin is sickening.
There was a great uproar, the dragon flew down from the Tower and was waiting for us in the ground.

To many have died already. For how many deaths will I be held responsible? Elúred has only one chance for survival, the time has come to expunge my sins, my trial has come.

I remember .........
Maitimo, come on to meet your other grandfather, Mahtan.
Yes, mother I'm coming.
Oh, so this is my first grandson, and he has our hair too. Hello young Maitimo. I visited you often, but you were too young to remember me. I see that you have the inner fire of your father, yet you have the copper hair of your mother. My friends call me Rusco, young Maitimo. Because we share the same color of hair, I will call you Russandol.
Thanks, I think grandfather Mahtan.
I see that in the future young Maitimo, you will face great trials. Always remember, do not let your pride get the better of you. You will have great responsabilities ahead of you. In time, the fate of your house may rest on you my boy.
Father, don't tell Maitimo these things, he's too young for that.
No, he's not my dear Nerdanel. My grandson in time, will become someone of tremendous importance. Remember this well, Heru Maitimo Russandol.

After all this time, it seems that I had failed Mahtan. I still remember the pain of the Silmaril, all the vain things that I did in order to preserve my pride, my vanity. All the slayings and killings. We had r