RPG #53: The Cries Unheard

[Elbereth]

The Cries Unheard is an invitational RPG only.

Please PM me to join or post a request in the RPG #53 Discussion thread if you wish to participate. THANK YOU!



PROLOGUE

Upon the dawn of the Fourth Age, the western world celebrates the destruction of Sauron and the Shadow of the East. The world is anew with hope, for a new day is upon them all. At long last the Heir of Isildur is crowned King of Gondor and Arnor and the might of the Dunedain is lifted up and their glory is renewed. Peace and harmony become commonplace as prosperity grows in the land. And before long the struggles and hardships of those during the years of the War of the Ring are forgotten as the the people settle into the ease of their peace filled lives.

However, in the western lands of Valinor, the Gods are not at ease. With the Shadow gone in the East, the sight of the Valar are now allowed to travel further into Middle Earth and into the lands beyond, and they soon find that all is not at peace in Ea. Beyond the stretches of Middle Earth, in the far eastern lands beyond Khand and Far Harad a great evil has grown. However, this evil was not created by the hand of Sauron, rather it was the product of the evils of men.

The cries of the two Wizards of Blue, Alatar and Pallando, long called but never answered can now be clearly heard in those distant lands, and the Gods are full of woe. Dismayed, Manwe summons the great lords of the Valar to council in the Halls of Taniquetil.

[Elbereth]

Sitting about a large round giltedged table, 13 of the 14 Valar Lords have gathered and the room is a buzz in debate over the proper solution to this new found evil. Sitting at the far side of the table, furthest from the door of the great hall, Manwe reports to the Valar of his visions and of the cries he heard in the far eastern distance of Middle earth. Elbereth, who sits to his right, also reports of hearing the faint calls of the Blue Istari in the East...but is unable to determine their exact whereabouts. To Elbereth's right is Yavanna, who is listening intently to the reports, while her husband Aule sits next to her inwardly fuming with anger. Next to Aule, there is Mandos and then his wife Vaire, Lorien, Este and then Nienna, who is dabbing her tear-filled eyes with a handkerchief. Glancing at Nienna's emotional reaction, Orome sighs, but remains quiet and attentive to all around him. Next to Orome, is Tulkas who like Aule, holds back his anger as Manwe further explain the evils that he has seen and the cries that they have neglected to hear all these years. However, Ulmo's chair, as usual is left unoccupied, for Ulmo has never concerned himself in the councils of the Valar, regardless of his high standing amoungst them.

As Manwe and Elbereth finish their speech, they then open the floor for comments from the Council.

[Elbereth]

Aule: What I can't understand is why we couldn't hear their calls sooner. ARE WE NOT VALAR! Have we not the ability to to hear the faintest of voices and the see the smallest of beasts from afar, farther than any other being both living and dead!!

Manwe: Sauron's hand stretched farther than we knew, and his strength was great. I felt that his destruction and influence was greater than we anticipated. Yet I never guessed that his influence stretched farther than the borders of middle earth.

Yavannah: That land has long been a wasteland, and shrouded in darkness of that cruel beast Ungoliant! It is no wonder we have neglected it. Why any being would venture into that land is beyond comprehension.

Nienna: And yet they did...and we are to blame for ignoring that region. *stiffles a sob*

Elbereth: Now Now! Let's not dwell on what we did not forsee. Our duty now is to find a solution.

Tulkas: (standing abruptly) Yes! We must take action! Something must be done and soon! We have waited long enough as it is!

Manwe: (stands and gives Tulkas a warning glare to sit down) Both Tulkas and Elbereth are right. We must find a solution and take action right away. However, we must realize that our new enemy lies not with one evil...but with a great many. It will take more than just Istari to resolve this problem. For the evil lies in the hearts of the evil men of that far distant land.

Mandos: And it is not our place to kill these men, for their fate lies in the hands of Illuvatar alone.

Manwe: We must also realize that even we, the Great Valar, know little of this far eastern region... nor do we know of the people that inhabit those lands. I believe that only Alatar and Pallando fully comprehend the evils of these people, and until we find them, our powers will be useless in defeating this growing evil in the east.

Orome: So are you suggesting a search party?

Manwe: That is exactly what I suggest.

[Elbereth]

Aule: You do not suggest that we send more Istari once again to Middle Earth! We have already sent out our five best Istari and only one has returned!

Tulkas: (not waiting for Manwe to respond) Yes! I do not trust the Istari! They are too weak and vulnerable! I say we return to Middle Earth and whip those men back into shape ourselves!

Manwe: Please Tulkas! Let's not be hasty. It is no longer our place to return to the lands of Ea. The world no longer understands the Valar. Our presence would only create more ill than good. Although, Aule you are correct. Our best Istari have already done their work...we must find a new solution.

*The room is silent for a great while as the Valar brainstorm for a solution. Then as if thinking out loud Elbereth replies softly although her statement hits the others as if she had yelled out.*

Elbereth: Then perhaps we should return to Middle Earth in human form as the Istari had done before.

*the rooms stirs in protest ...but Elbereth stands her ground*

Elbereth: Please...Please! Hear me out! We have already sent two of the finest Maiar in all of Ea to that distant region. I am sure you will all agree that Alatar and Pollando's wisdom and goodness are amongst the strongest in the land. Only Olorin's power is greater. And yet the two Istari were overwhelmed. Our best bet would be sending Olorin once again to Middle Earth, but alas, he has done all he can do in Middle earth...he has done his job well...and deserves his rest in Valinor.
Tulkas is right! I say we send one of us! But let us go in flesh and forfeit our powers for that time...

Aule: What you say may be true Varda, but who do you suggest go. Who amoung the Valar are willing to leave Valinor, to be subject to the pains and ills of mortality. And to forfeit our powers....THAT'S SUICIDE!!!

*Elbereth sits silently, her head held high as shouts of agreement fill the halls. Then as the cries reach a fevered pitch....Elbereth stands up with great majesty and authority*

Elbereth: I WILL GO!!!

[Elbereth]

*The Valar gasp in horror and disbelief*

Este: VARDA....NO!

Elbereth: Este, If I do not go...who among you will.

*Elbereth stares at each Valar one by one. The room remains silent*

Manwe: (somberly) Is this really what you want to do Varda?

Elbereth: It is.

A sadness falls on Manwe, but he realizes that there is no other solution and he also knows that his wife would not change her mind once her mind is made up.

Manwe: Then you shall go....but not without your powers.

*Elbereth attempts to protests but Manwe holds up his hand for her to stop*

Manwe: It would be useless to send you to the dangers of those unknown regions powerless. You shall have your powers, but your strength will be lessened and you will be subject to the emotions and pains of mortality. And...*he pauses briefly as his face falls in an expression of sadness* ...You shall break your ties that bind you here in Valinor. A young maiden you shall be, and one without a husband. *he looks down, unable to face his wife.*

Elbereth: Manwe! How can you say this!

Manwe: (Looking at her now, love in his eyes) In my heart Varda, you will always be my wife...but as a human you must be able to create new alliances and this will be done only through a proper marriage. Please understand.

*a tear falls down Elbereth's cheek, but she knows that it must be done, and she consents to the terms willingly*

[Elbereth]

In her chamber, Elbereth dutifully prepares for her journey to Middle Earth when Ilmare, her handmaiden, enters the room.

"Varda, please excuse me. Yavanna and her son Yavalda are here to see you. Shall I send them in?"

Placing a ring of intricately weaved crystal, into a velvet pouch, she looks up at Ilmare and smiles warmly. “Yes of course Ilmare, send them in.”. With a slight bow, Ilmare leaves the room and then returns moments later with Yavanna and her young son Yavalda.

“Yavanna, I am so glad you have come to visit me before I leave.” Elbereth says crossing the room joyfully and greeting Yavanna with a friendly embrace. Yavanna says nothing, however, her warm, pitying smile reveals her mind. “Yavanna, I know you are concerned about my decision to enter Middle Earth, but I assure you it is the right thing to do. I promise you that I’ll be …”

“Varda, please listen to me. I do not believe it is right for you to travel to Middle Earth alone. No please, let me finish what I have to say. My dear friend, you may be a great Vala, however, you will find that life as an immortal human will be very overwhelming. You will not be able to see or hear all, as you have in the past…you will experience sensations that you have never had to experience as a Vala. Your emotions will cloud your mind rather than guide you. One must not endure this alone.”

With great patience Elbereth listens to Yavanna’s words. “Yavanna, I am well aware of the consequences of my journey. I know what I will have to endure and I am prepared to face that. However, if you heard the Istari’s cry as I have, you would endure the pains of mortality to save them too. I will not be persuaded to remain in Valinor, idly doing nothing, while they suffer unheeded in the unknown wilderness of Ea.”

Yavanna smiles knowingly, “Yes, I know it would be impossible to change your mind Varda. I have come today, to convince you to take a companion…my son, Yavalda. He has long been fascinated with all matters concerning Middle Earth. He is very knowledgable and more importantly, longs to visit the world beyond Valinor. He may also be helpful to you, during your transition into humanity. As he is a Maiar, his transformation will not be as traumatic as yours will be. Please Varda, to ease my mind, say you will take him with you.”

Elbereth smiles warmly at Yavanna and then turning to Yavalda replies, “Well Yavalda, let me hear what you have to say for yourself.”

“Your majesty, it would be my honor to serve you in your journeys abroad. And I do long to see the great forrest and rolling hills of the great lands of Arda!”, Yavalda replies excitedly.

Laughing, Elbereth embraces the youthful Yavalda and agrees to take him as her companion.

[Turgon]

Chapter One

Yavalda was ill at ease, the voyage had not been to his liking; he was a creature of forests and of mellow fields, ill suited to a journey upon the trackless sea. Huddled in the bow of the ship with his cloak pulled close about him, Yavalda muttered Ulmo's name over and over, hoping in his heart of hearts that the Lord of Waters would remember his promise to stay the wrath of his wayward servant, Ossë. Yavalda had ever been wary of Ossë's moods. The Lady was resting below, and that was some comfort, for who would dare hinder her? and yet... and yet...

'Aiya Yavalda!'

The Maia started at hearing his name cried aloud in the vast emptiness of the ocean, thinking at first that Ossë himself had come to mock him in his fears. Yet it was not so, the voice was fair and elvish, not the the rushing, roaring voice of the Lord of Storms. An elven mariner stood before him, a smile playing across his delicate features. 'Yavalda, be at ease, for we draw near to the coasts of Middle-earth. Can you not hear the crying of the gulls? And look to the east there - Ered Luin! Our journey nears its end!' Yavalda stood and gazed out from the bow of the ship.

The elf spoke truly. The Hither Shore slept darkly beneath a black-bellied sky, and looming large before them, the great expanse of the Ered Luin stretching across the horizon with a gap-tooth smile of welcome.

'Hmm... I can smell forests and green grass growing...' Yavalda murmured.

'Indeed...' replied the mariner. 'Lindon is fair land, and my kindred have lived there many ages. Before the world was broken we dwelt there, though soon the time will come when none shall remain, and the very mountains will mourn our passing. But come, now is not the time for unhappy thoughts! Go find your lady and tell her that the Havens are in sight. Soon you will taste the hospitality of Círdan, and all we be well again!'

[Ciryaher]

Koldhram gazed out from a high tower in the Ered Luin. "It is indeed as magnificent as you spoke, friend. Tell me, though," the dwarf said, pointing off towards the Gulf of Lhun, "Are those the sea-havens of the...elves?"

Avnulgar nodded solemnly. "Indeed, those are the homes of the great sea-vessels and their masters. We have occaisional dealings with them. They need metals and stone, and we need some of the finer things they make as well. Why do you ask, though?"

The other pondered, running his fingers over his beard. "I should very much like to see them. I do not know why, but I think it would be very...interesting to visit with the Tall Ones."

"And what of your Hall, Lord Koldhram? Are you not anticipating a fine son within soon?"

Koldhram waved his hand and turned away from the window. "You know that it will be some time off. I will leave my abode in the best of hands, I assure you," he said, reassuringly.

-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-

The next day he set off down the path through the mountains, winding its way down and west towards a small hill in the great forests. He arrived within a few hours and was greeted happily by his clan. The same evening of his return, he held a council and told them of his plan.

"Brothers and kinsmen, I am departing on a journey to the Havens of the Elves south of here. I do not know how long I will be, but I shall return."

The others nodded, "Who will journey with you, Lord Onyxhelm?"

"I shall take with me only four. You, Kar'raz, shall go, as well as Vakhma and his brother Dakhma, and also Brellam of the 2nd Guard. This small party will appear less hostile to the Elves, and I would not want them to think we are some invasion."

Kar'raz stood, adjusting his belt. "So we are settled here, then? I say we depart on the morrow. What say you, Lord?"

"That sounds good to me. Let us take feast this eve and get rest for the journey ahead," he said, and the council broke and dismissed.

[Elbereth]

In the confines of her small cabin below deck, Elbereth sat in deep meditation unaffected by the merciless shifting and rocking of the Elven ship. Although, she had been away from her home in Valinor for several months, her mind never departed from Manwe her love. Often in dreams, Elbereth would return to him, and he would comfort and reassure her that she had made the right decision. Knowing that she had reached the end of her journey to Arda, Elbereth went to her cabin, and fell into a deep trance, returning to Manwe one last time:

“Elbereth, the time has come. You must now be strong. There is no turning back once you change.” Manwe whispered in her ear before he returned to the shadows of her mind.

“No don’t leave yet. Hold me once more.” Elbereth pleaded. Manwe came back out of the shadows and embraced his wife.

“I can not delay this any longer, you will be arriving upon the shores of Middle Earth before long. Are quite sure you ready?” Manwe asked as he wiped away a tear from Elbereth’s blue-green eyes.

“I’m ready.” Elbereth replied bravely, her chin held up high.
Manwe smiled lovingly at his wife and kissed her deeply before returning to the shadows.

Filled with anxiety Elbereth cried out to him, “My love! Will I ever see you again?”

Manwe’s shadowed figure stopped and turned. “My dear, you have not yet turned human and yet you’ve let your emotions rule your speech. You know well, we shall meet again when your mission is complete. Do not despair my love. Although we are far away, I shall always be with you in spirit.”

Staring into the shadows, Elbereth whispers, “I love you Manwe, I always will.”

Then averting her eyes, she turns and looks up into the great light behind her. Taking a deep breath she enters the light, its white brightness engulfs her and before long all she knows, all she feels is the light.

-----

Moments before, Yavalda had reached the door of her cabin, when he heard Elbereth’s cry to Manwe. Alarmed, he opened the door and entered her cabin. The room was dark, but he could see Elbereth sitting in the center of the room in a deep trance. Yavalda stood there several moments staring at the Valar in wonder. Then suddenly, Elbereth lifted her head, her eyes wide open and stared into the darkness above her. Then in a clear voice, Elbereth sang out.

“ELE UTULIEN , TINTALLE VARDA! NUVALMET FIR…NAI ERU!! NAI ERU!!! ”

The room then filled with the purest, whitest light and Yavalda fell to his knees, overwhelmed by the brightness. Elbereth’s song echoed about the room in repetition, like the song of the waves against the shore filling the Ainur and sending them into a deep sleep. Then in a violent jerk, Yavalda and Elbereth were awoken and the darkness of the room returned.

"Land Ho!!!" Bellowed the Mariner above.

[Elbereth]

“Land Ho!!!”, bellowed Earendur, the Mariner, asthe boat approached the shore. It had been almost 5000 years since the Mariner had last set foot on the shores of Middle earth and the very sight of this lush green land set his heart souring. As the sound of seagulls filled the air, Earendur became lost in fond memories of old, as he now turned the ship toward the coastline, and steered cautiously through the chopping waters toward the docks. A weather worn but cheerful smile brightened his handsome face.

“Captain, sir! I must speak to you urgently! Sir… Sir!”

Coming back to reality, Earendur turned to his attention to the steward who approached him swiftly and with great anxiety.

“Have the passengers been alerted that land is in sight? And are they quite ready for the arrival?” Earendur questioned.

The steward looked anxiously at the Mariner. “Captain sir, I don’t know how to tell you this…but the passengers…well…the passengers…” He then looked to the ground skittishly, searching for the right words to say. Annoyed Earendur replied, “Well now…let’s not fumble about …what about the passengers…are they quite ready for the landing?”

The Steward looked fearful before he answered, “Sir, the passenger are...are not quite themselves…they’ve ...well Sir, they’ve changed.”

“Changed!! What do you mean changed!” The steward tried to answer but lacked the words. Angered, Earendur called over his first mate, Carnthir.

“Caranthir steer the ship to shore. I want to get to the bottom of this.”.

Handing the ship over to his first mate, Earendur followed the steward to the guest cabins, where he was lead to Elbereth’s chamber at the far end ship. The door was opened a crack, and light filtered into the hallway causing eerie shadows to dance about the walls. Looking up in fear at Earendur, the steward opened the door to the room and moved aside so his captain could walk in. However, upon entering Earendur stopped short. Lying in the center of the room, unconscious was a beautiful young maiden, being propped up by an unusual looking Ent, who was muttering softly to her in Quenya. The Mariner recognized the muttering to be an ancient prayer, and one that he had not heard since his youth several ages ago. However, it was indeed a strange sight. Not understanding the scene before him, Earendur blurted out awkwardly, “What is the meaning of this!?!”

The Ent stopped his muttered prayer and looked up at the Mariner, with a kind understanding, but said not a word in response. Instead the two merely exchanged stare for stare. Then from within, Earendur heard a voice, “Do not fear what you do not understand. Look closer and you shall know the truth of it.” And then in that instant… Earendur knew what had happened to the Valar and Maiar, and he also knew that they would need help during these first few hours.

[Elbereth]

The first few hours of their arrival was a blur to all involved. After the ship pulled into the dock, the crew helped both the weakened Ent and the unconscious maiden out of their cabin and onto dry land, while Earendur, the Mariner set out in an arduous task of finding his old friend Cirdan, the Shipwright.

Cirdan had long been rumored to have left the shores of middle earth after the last ship departed for the west. However, knowing not to believe local legend, Earendur continued his search. It was near midnight when Earendur heard word of his whereabouts, however, it would not be until morning before he could be reunited with him.

Meanwhile, as Earendur searched the Grey Havens, the steward did everything in his power to help accommodate the ailing Ent and maiden. As the Valar Lords had predicted, Elbereth’s and Yavalda’s tranformation would be a painful one. Eru did not want the Ainur to return to Ea and interfere with his plan once the west was hidden from Middle Earth. Therefore, those of the Ainur who choose to take on earthly form and live amoungst the children of Middle Earth would be subject to all the pains and emotions of mortality, and for an Ainur who is unaccustomed to such feelings, the pains of life are at first most unbearable.

[Elbereth]

It was the first hour of dawn when the Mariner and his steward, bearing the weary Ent and the unconscious maiden at last arrived at Cirdan’s lighthouse atop the Tower Hills. The lighthouse stood, shrouded by the early morning mist, a single beam of light shining through the dense fog toward the dark waters of the Gulf of Lhun. During these silent hours Cirdan greeted his weary guest.

“I assume the maiden is Elbereth and the young Ent there, that is Yavanna’s son.” Cirdan said matter of factly as he helped his guest into the cozy lamp lit kitchen.

“I assume they are?” the Mariner responded seriously, but yet uncertainty lingered on his tongue. “She is a Valier, is she not? She shouldn’t be this weak.”

Taking a seat at the kitchen table, Yavalda lifted his weary head and responded. “She is a Valier, and that is precisely why she is weak. It is not easy for a Vala to change to flesh. It is not the same as Maiar. They were not meant to become flesh. Their powers can’t be contained in such a weak shell. She shall be weakened for quite some time. I will need your help Cirdan.”

Cirdan looked at Yavalda seriously, but uncertainty and weariness were in his eyes. “I admit I was longing to return to the West as promised. My sea longing is greater than it has been and I am weary of this world. But my service I will give you, as it is my duty to the lords of the West. You shall have my assistance for as long as you need it.

[Ciryaher]

Koldhram sucked on his teeth as he and his companions espied the northern gate of Forlond. "Well, friends," he asked, "Shall we forth?"

The others nodded and grunted in agreement. "Lord, what if they are hostile?" asked Kar'raz in a hoarse whisper.

Brellam roared an answer, "They wouldn't dare! Besides, we can put up a stout fight!"

The King waved his hand to silence them. "There will be no need of fighting. Come," he said and trotted towards the gates. The others followed close behind until they arrived at the silver, enruned gates. They stood uneasily for a few minutes, waiting for a sentinel to challenge them, but there was nothing. At last, Koldhram rapped on the gates with his hammer. "Travellers from the Silver Hill request admission!" he called out.

[Aerin]

Grey eyes opened and looked out upon the tangle of green foliage that grew everywhere. Young green things pushed their way out of the ground, while creepers and vines hung down and created a lattice-work of lacy greenery. The sky over head was a deep blue, dotted with the ever increasing clouds; a storm was on its way. Sunlight gently filtered down and illuminated the forest floor, shining with a soft brilliance.

A bird called; the slight movement of her head revealed where she sat, motionless on a boulder. Moriarrna's long black hair was braided and hung down her back; her grey eyes, that had seen many years pass, gazed out from a pale face that held much wisdom.
Time would pass, as it always had; she would still remain, looking out upon the forests she inhabited.

[Turgon]

'Well spoken Master Círdan...' Yavalda replied, placing a firm hand on the elf-lord's shoulder. 'Our journey here is of the utmost urgency, though more than that I can not say... your help though will be greatly needed in the coming days, as will your council. These lands are strange to me, though maybe not so to My Lady, she, it is said, can see all that passes in the wide lands of Middle-earth, alas I'm am not so well sighted.'

The Maia paused then as if lost in thought, glancing westwards back across the seas. Then turning to the Shipwright he smiled. 'Hmm... come now... let us take the Lady to a place of rest; then perhaps you can tell me how things stand... Who are the powers in this land? What dangers await the unwary...? I have little time and much to learn...'

[Elbereth]

“Yavalda, let’s not be too hasty. You are neglecting your own fatigue…I understand you are anxious to fulfill your mission, but that must wait. I will give you all the answers in due time. Come now, I have prepared you a room.” Círdan then led the Ent to a spacious room in the cellar. “I was hoping to set you up in one of the bedrooms above…but I didn’t expect that you would be an Ent….hmmm no…never an ent…” And then he laughed. “Oh my, please forgive me for laughing but you are indeed an unusual looking Ent at that…but please don’t take mind to what I am saying…perhaps I am not familiar with that species as I once was... rest now.” Yavalda simply shook his ent head and said nothing, accepting the mattress offered to him and fell into a deep sleep. Shortly after, Círdan returned upstairs and took the sleeping Vala into a nearby bedroom, before he returned to the kitchen and fixed the tired Mariner and Steward some breakfast before they departed.

As the two seamen sat down to eat, their conversation turned to their preparations to depart for the West. Such talk rejuvenated the seamen as well as their appetites and they ate heartily. However, Círdan sat silent throughout the talk, nodding occasionally to the men when they addressed him and by the end of the meal, Cirdan’s plate was barely touched. By midmorning, the Mariner, Earendur and the Steward bid Círdan farewell and departed for the Grey Havens and then onto the West.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

That evening, Cirdan and Yavalda talked long of the current affairs of the day. Yavalda was saddened to hear of the death of King Elessar, but was even more dismayed by the news that the legendary land of Lorien, of which he had heard in stories and had longed to visit, had also passed away with the fair Queen Arwen Evenstar only a few months past. Then, with great enthusiasm and animation, Cirdan told Yavalda of the great battles fought in the East, of the evil men of Khand and Harad, and of the brave leadership of King Eldarion, the new Emperor of Arnor. However, as his stories turned to the fate of his own folk, his expression became dark and mournful, for he knew his people was a race that was fading.

Then as the last of the wine was finished and the fire had died down to a low flame, the conversation came at last to what should be done concerning the two missing Wizards of Blue and the still unconscious Vala that lay unmoving in the next room.

[Ciryaher]

The dwarves waited for some response, but when none came, Kar'raz skeptically noted, "Perhaps there are no elves in the Havens, after all..."

Koldhram looked at him and scowled in contemplation. "You," he said, looking inquiringly at Brellam, "You have a grapple and coil, do you not?"

"Yes m'lord," the captain grunted and lowered his backpack to the ground. He pulled out a length of rope with a three-pronged hook tied securely to one end. Understanding his lord's intent, he held the coil in one hand and a length with the hook in the other and began twirling it in a slow circle. With an almost inaudible grunt, he flung it over the wall, then slowly began walking towards the wall while bringing in the slack. at last, the line was taut and they were at the foot of the wall. He then turned to face the king.

"Brellam, you will ascend first. If you see nothing, then I will come, followed by Kar'raz, and lastly Vakhma and Dakhma. Very well?"

The others nodded, and Brellam began pulling himself up. At first, he climbed with both his hands and feet on the rope, but he soon found that it was easier to walk up the slightly back-angled wall and pull himself. He hoped that the others had not taken notice of this and flushed red, but continued up as if nothing had happened. The wall seemed to get taller as he went up, but he proudly made no comment, and was at last heaving himself over the battlement and knelt panting on the stone. There were two well-shodden feet under his eyes.

"Do you see anything, comrade?" Vakhma called up from below.

Brellam slowly looked up and beheld an elf bearing a stern expression. In the common language of western men, the elf spoke, "Lo! Is this some manner of assault upon our mighty walls? Are the dwarves become of vile sort?"

It took some seconds for the dwarf's mind to compute this. "No...I come from the house of my lord," he replied haltingly, but picked up speed as he remembered the tongue, "We come on no fell errand, and wished only to seek the company of the Fair-Folk."

Koldhram's head appeared over the battlement, and he gave a shout of surprise, nearly forgetting to hold onto the rope. The elf held his spear at the ready in two hands, but Koldhram simply scrambled over the ledge and landed on Brellam, who had not yet thought to stand. The two stood quickly, but did not draw weapon or buckle shield.

There was a noise of an argument and Kar'raz was pushed onto the walkway by a hand, which was soon followed by the face of Vakhma looking around from behind the stone. He too was pushed up and over and finally Dakhma flung himself over the battlement onto his brother and Kar'raz.

The elf stood, his face stricken with puzzlement, as the others clambered onto his wall. As they all realized where they were and stood uneasily, a grin broke across his face until at last he was shaking with a laughter that resembled the music of water splashing over a rocky ledge in a forest stream. Koldhram smiled slightly and seemed to be trying to speak while his associates turned red with embarassed displeasure. At last the elf ceased his merriment and looked down at the dwarves, his lips smiling pleasantly and his eyes shining. "Speak now your business here in the Northern Haven of Forlond. Why do you seek the company of we, the Fair?"

Koldhram bowed deeply. "Lord Elf, we seek only to visit this fair city, of which our tales speak distantly. Payment we have in plenty for lodgings..."

"That is well. Come, then. I am named Eruresto, of the Guard. Speak thy names in return, and let me deem whether or not you are courteous folk."

"Indeed, I am Koldhram Onyxhelm, Lord of the Silver Hill," he bowed again and gestured singly to each of his companions, "And this is Kar'raz, Chief of the Armoury; Brellam, Captain of the Second Guard; Vakhma, the silversmith; and his brother, Dakhma, the gemcutter and mapmaker." Each of the dwarves bowed as they were addressed.

Eruresto smiled and bowed, "Come now, my friends! I will take you to the master of our fair city, and let him speak as lords must to one another." He chuckled and led them along the wall to a tower, which they descended. As they walked through the streets, he spoke once more, "It is perhaps better for you that many of the Forlondhrim are away in the Harlond. I hear that emissaries of the West have come...but perhaps not. No matter," he finished, and then walked on wearing a silent smile.

[Elbereth]

As Cirdan and Yavalda talked in the main room, Elbereth slipped in and out of consciousness in the dark bedroom nearby. Her powerful spirit was fighting to gain control of her new body, however her efforts only resulted in exhausting her. This new body was weaker and more fragile than she had anticipated, but not even her will or desire to awaken could help her.

Frustrated, Elbereth’s mind cried out; “Help me! Le nallon si Eru!”, but her silent cries were unheeded. She then slipped into unconsciousness once again.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

“ The Lady Elbereth, she is essential to your mission. Do you not believe that she will waken soon?” Cirdan asked Yavalda earnestly.

Starring into the dying embers of the fire, Yavalda let out a low murmur, like that of a deep woodwind instrument, that was as unfamiliar to him as it was to the ancient Elf. “Hoom Hrum, mon…” He then paused in awkwardness before he continued on. “Hrum..hmm..um…yes, the Valier, she struggles, but will not awaken soon…hm…hoom…and yet we can not remain here idle while the Istari remain hidden and in danger, I must leave right away… hoom mon….um hmm…” Yavalda then fell into an embarrassed silence.

Taken aback by Yavalda’s sudden and unexpected change, Cirdan laughed aloud. Yavalda looked at him in aghast, which only made Cirdan laugh louder. “Oh my dear Maia! Ho Ho! I do believe your transformation is nearly complete. I almost forgot how humorous the Entish speech can be!! Please forgive me!”

Then from deep within his Entish form, a rumble began to build within Yavalda, until it could not be mistaken for anything other than laughter. “Hrum mon! I guess you are right. Hoom..hmm.. This speech is a bit unusual mon, even for me!” He then rolled his eyes in embarrassment and chuckled to himself. This amused Cirdan, and the two continued to laugh heartily for quite some time.

[Turgon]

It was with a weary heart that Yavalda set out from the Havens. He was leaving the Lady behind, and worried greatly about her health. He visited her one last time before he left, for in his heart he knew he would not see her again for many long years. She looked pale and wan as he entered the room, and he stayed with her for many hours, singing softly to her in a deep baritone: songs of home, songs of Valinor. When dawn came he was loath to leave her. Yet she was in good hands, and this was a journey that could not wait.

So it was that with the rising sun at his back and the wide lands of Middle-earth before him the ent set forth. It was not long before he had left Mithlond far behind him, his long strides eating up the miles. Having studied the Maps of Círdan intently he had decided to make first for the Tower Hills, from there he would get a good view of the lands lying hard about. Whither then? He knew not... but he had taken the first steps, and they were always the hardest to make.

[Elbereth]

The lady Elbereth remained confined to her bed for several weeks, falling in and out of consciousness, her condition never improving from one day to the next. Beside himself with worry and not knowing where else to turn, Cirdan took it upon himself to search for Moriarrna, the Elven witch of Forlindon. Moriarrna’s legend was infamous in the lands around the region and she was believed to have unusual powers of healing. However, the elven witch was not easy to locate in the vast lands of Forlindon, for it is said that her location changed with the seasons, and any who did find her lair were loathed to find it, for it was well guarded by what many described as an army of elven archers. Regardless of the rumors, however, Cirdan was resolved in his decision. It would have to be risked.

Almost immediately after making his decision to take Elbereth to see the elf witch, he began to busy himself with the preparations. Leaving the solitude of his self-isolation, Cirdan returned to the marketplace in the Grey Havens to purchase a carriage and various supplies for his journey. Indeed, Cirdan had not felt this alive in a long time, and much to his surprise, he looked forward to the journey ahead of them.

During the evenings that Cirdan sat by Elbereth’s bedside, he would tell her of the journey and with great excitement in his voice share with her all that he had done and planned. And although, Elbereth could not respond,Cirdan knew that she consented to his decision. For during her rare moments of consciousness she would open her eyes and smile kindly at him, showing to him her approval.

Therefore at dawn, on the eve of the Winter solstice, three months after Elbereth arrived on his doorstep, Cirdan and Elbereth departed on their search to find the Elf witch, Moriarrna.

[Elbereth]

The wind was howling mercilessly as the small wooden carriage rattled down the pathways toward the harbor. It seemed that from every direction, the snow flew at Cirdan, blurring his vision and making him lose sight of what lay ahead. It seemed that every few feet, Cirdan had to stop to clear the pathway ahead of him, and at this rate, he estimated that they would be delayed another three hours before they reached the harbor where his ship lay in wait for their journey across the Gulf of Lhun to Forlindon.

Inside the carriage Elbereth lay, wrapped in elven robes, her mind filled with anxious dreams. For too long, she had been a prisoner in this mortal body, and her mind began to regret her decision to leave Valinor, and she longed to return to the home she had always known.

Frustrated, Elbereth willed her mind towards the west, until she was able to carry herself over the Western seas. All about her on every side there were endless stretches of water surrounding her. She could feel the cool wind rip across her face and the ocean spray damp her skin as she flew over the violently crashing, dark blue tides. So many miles passed by, but still the sea never bated, continuing endlessly before her. ‘Where is it, where is Valinor?’ her mind cried. But alas it was hidden from view.

Never before had Elbereth felt such intense emotion as she did now. Her heart was filled with despair. However, once she began to feel that all was lost, she was able to see the first glimpses of the white peaks of Taniquetil ahead of her. Her heart filled with joy as she willed herself to go faster. Then just as the full sight of the Great lands of the gods were before her, she heard a great cry that nearly stopped her flight.

“Land Ho!”

Distracted, Elbereth tried to push forward again towards Valinor, her home, but as she did the lands began to fade and vanish. ‘No! Don’t go away!’ her heart cried. Then suddenly great bells filled her head and another cry was heard in the distance, only loader than the first. “Land Ho! Land Ho!!” Then suddenly, Elbereth was snapped back to reality and to the situation she was in. She once again fell into despair.

“Elbereth! We are here! We are in Forlindon, just as I promised you! Fear not maiden, it should not be long until we will be at the great Elven city of Forlond! The people of this city will be sure to know of where to find the elven witch, Moriarrna so that she may be able to cure you.” With a gleam in his eyes, Cirdan expertly guided the ship into the Port of Forlond.

[Ciryaher]

Koldhram and his companions were invited to a feast, in honor of this strange yet happy occurence. Though the winds howled outside, the hall was merry and the air was filled with the scents of delicious food and drink.

The King was in a friendly conversation with a captain of one of the elven vessels. "So you've seen these 'Undying Lands?'" he asked, somewhat amazed.

"If I had, I wouldn't still be here," said the elf, grinning.

"Ah...haha!" Koldhram laughed and raised his mug.

At that moment, the doors opened and a figure stepped in. In a strong voice, it spoke, "Lord Cirdan has arrived with guests of great portence. We humbly implore that they be allowed to take sustenance here, with you all, so that they may rest."

The Mayor of Forlond, Réion, stood and bowed. "We would indeed welcome Lord Cirdan to our hall, as well as any guests he brings with him. Let--"

The dwarves simultaneously banged on their tables and shouted, "Aye!!"

Réion smiled and nodded to the herald, who bowed deeply and exited.

[Elbereth]

Momments later, the Herald returned with Cirdan at his side.

Cirdan then went around the room to greet his old friend Mayor Reion. Then seeing the Dwarves gathered around the room he greeted each in kind...paying special respects to Lord Koldram.

"It is indeed an honor to be of your acquiantance, King Koldram. However, I regret that I will be unable to join you in this grand feast. If you please excuse me, I must take my leave from you all to speak to the Mayor Reion in private concerning matters of great importance."

However, not wanting to leave the merriment of the room, the Mayor replied, "Cirdan, my friend...is your message really one that requires such secracy? Please speak freely, you are amongst friends in these halls. "

[Elbereth]

Cirdan looked about the hall at the faces that surrounded him. Kindly faces of Elf and Dwarf stared back at him, welcoming his speech eagerly. 'Can I really trust them', thought Cirdan.

His thought then returned to Elbereth, who he had left in a sitting room next to the dining hall, and to the message that Hempdread had imparted to him before he left.

"It is imparative that we find a cure for Elbereth. Our mission depends on it. But I can not delay, I must move on. I leave her to your care, Cirdan. But please keep the mission secret for no one must know who she really is. They would not understand."

Then returning his gaze to the Mayor, Cirdan began;

"I need your help Reion. You have been a friend of mine for many ages, therefore I have complete trust in you and in those you deem to be trustworthy. However, what I will reveal to those in this room must be kept in the greatest of discretion. Do I have your word that what I say will be safe with you and those in this room?"