Shadows Over Arthedain

[Halasían]

Annals of the Dúnedain
Shadow over Arthedain
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(This story began as a two-person collaborative effort formerly titled Lady Rían of Annúminas, but has expanded in my mind into a much wider writing project. It became something not seen in the initial intention It is very much a work-in-progress, and I'd like to ask for any comments to wait 'til it is finished. Thank you)
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I was standing on the shores of Lake Evendim, with the darkening skies and emerging stars to the north, the Twilight Hills siloette the skies. There I stood, thoughts still dark from the twenty years of battle and war and death. It was peaceful here, not like the Weather Hills or the northern steppes. Silence iI dwelt in, it washing over my mind, easing its pain when I heard movement....

There in the lamplit street walking toward the lake was a lady. She smiles as she walks toward me, and I suddenly think of my appearance. Hard are the ways of a Dúnedain soldier of the Kingdom, for the times are darkening. Yet this lady walked toward me. I smiled awkwardly as she came beside me, and I nodded a greeting.

'Mae govannen'

I said, and I looked again at her. She was dressed in the thinest of white silk, and the warm summer breeze fluttered the long gown. I swallowed, trying not to make it obvious that I noticed her beauty, and I stammered...

'I am Silvanis of the Eastern Watch, and I have not been long recently in the city. Forgive me if I don't know how to act.'

I gazed at her as her long blonde hair danced in the breeze, and a smile came over me. What did she think of this nervous soldier?

It was the days of King Araphant, a good ruler of the Northern Dúnedain realm. But he knew that his days were darkening, for we were only a shadow of the greatness of Arnor of old. After the fracturing, the realms of Rhûadur and Cardolan fell into the shadows, and now only Arthedain stood. But the presence of the darkness of Carndûm gave little rest to the Dúnedain, and it was there, in war and attrition, did I serve my King. Ere twenty years have passed since I left for a time, only a year it was said, but the faces of the veterans then told otherwise. The kingdom was slowly being bled out, while the numbers of new families and children born grew ever fewer. It was all part of the shadow that reached its hand over Arnor.

[Dragon]

do you want us to continue the story, or give our opinions?

[Lady Rían]

Looking out the window I saw a man standing near the lake. He looked tired and weary from travel. But I knew his face the same. He has returned, after so long, Silvanis has returned to Annúminas!

I ran downstairs and out the door as fast as my feet would carry me. As I drew closer I slowed my pace. Smiling, I walked toward him. He stammered as he introduced himself nervously.

He looked the same as I remembered him, as the breeze blew at his slightly greying locks. He was as beautiful as ever, stronger, and leaner. He looked wonderful. I looked into his eyes. They had seen much since I saw them last. They were wiser, but still tender.

"Welcome back Silvanis. It has been a long time..perhaps you have forgotten me..? "

I leaned close and planted a kiss on his cheek, in the hopes he would remember me. But the road was no doubt long, with many new faces along the way.

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~Rían
Lady of Annúminas

OCC: Snowy! Wow! A thread with my name on it!!
;) *blushes* :p Thank you! *kisses and hugs*

[Halasían]

My mind swam as she kissed my cheek, and I thought back to when I was last by the lake near the old city of Annúminas....

.... I was a young man then, before I left. I would walk quietly by the lakeshore west of the city, where the tall grasses waved in waves in the wind. It was a place where I would go to be away from people, to think of life, and the path I was to walk now that I rode with the Dúnedain Rangers. I was raised in the finest of the Dúnedain studies and knew well the lands. I often visited Imladris, and I learned the lore of the elves there and in Lindon, and was an able craftsman and warrior.

Yet, the years passed and the time had taken me far and wide, spending much of the time in the northwest reaches and the Ettenmoors. At first there were battles withhill trolls, orcs, & the wild wargs of Carn Dûm, but later the evil that stirred there became more cunning. The watch had been long and hard, and I would go long in the wild lands, seeking, finding, and killing those who would plunder the lands of Arnor. I had excelled in tracking and stealth through these years, and I was Dúnedain, I had become ever weathered and burduned with the years.

I remembered now the last time I was in a city... 10 years ago in Fornost and Bree, and 20 since I was in fair Annúminas. I did not fare too well now amongst people, for the smell of death was upon me. I preferred when I came for supply to go to the Forsaken Inn east of Bree, for few questions were asked and fewer answers given, and one such as I, though known by some, could come and go without stirring much attention. Yet much could be learned by one of keen hearing and knowledge of the languages by being quiet by ones self by the large stone fireplace... But now I was in Annúminas, and I tried to dress well and act well, and the sights and sounds aroused the memories of my youth...

"Welcome back Silvanis. It has been a long time... perhaps you have forgotten me..?"

Her words echoed through my mind as I turned to her. Her smile was broad and cunning, and she was beautiful. The time had moved on her as well, and I remembered the girl that arose from the grasses that day, that summer day, one much like this one, though it seemed ages ago.

'I have not forgotten thee ... though it has been too long since I had the honor to be in your presence.'

the breeze off the lake rippled her gown and their hair entangled as they stood. He thought back to the day he had last seen her. It was a Midsummers Eve Ball, and the memories of that day was both joyful and sad. It was the next day he was to go to the watch in the northeast, before evil stirred, and it was to be a tour of a year...

She couldn't help but notice the sadness wash over me for an ever brief moment, and I struggled to push it out. Smiling, I finally said,

'Would thee care to walk with me this evening by the lakeshore?'

[Lady Rían]

“Yes. I would love to”

I smiled. He held out his arm, and I hooked it with mine and we began walking. A slight sadness had washed over his face, quickly replaced by a smile. I could practically see the memories racing through his mind, and felt the same bit of sadness of days long past. It had been so long ago, we were so young. But thankful I was he still remembered that day. The day we met…almost twenty years ago…The day we fell in love..

…...The sun was shinning high on a hot summers day. There were no clouds to offer comfort from the blazing heat. The wind was blowing off of the lake, and I lay in the cool grass. The grass was several inches tall and therefore held much coolness still to the ground. It was so tall, I was practically hidden from anyone coming upon me. Thus how Silvanis happened to find me there.

I heard the hoofbeats coming, but thought it all to be in my dream I was having, so I paid it no mind. They grew louder as they came closer, the earth beneath me seemed to shudder. And before I knew what was happening they were upon me. I sat up straight to find out what was going on, and there before me was a horse and rider, coming on fast. I screamed and dived back down flat in the grass, just as the horse jumped over me. My heart was beating wildly as I tried to catch my breath. I lay still, I couldn’t move just yet. I heard the horse whinny to a stop, and the rider dismounted and came running back to see if I was hurt.

“I’m sorry I’m sorry! I did not see you there! Are you hurt?”

With his assistance, I sat up slow, as his voice echoed about my head. His breathing came heavy, and his voice was melodic and sincere. I lifted my head and gazed my eyes upon him. The sight of him sent my heart beating wildly again. He wore riding clothes that were dusty from his journey. His face was smudged with dirt, and his hair had been tossled by the wind. But still.. he was the most beautiful man I had ever seen. He had captivated me from the start.

“N..No. I’m fine.” I stammered nervously, as he helped me to stand.

“My name is Silvanis.” He introduced himself politely with a bow, but his eyes never wavered from me.

“I am Ríannon… B.But everyone calls me… Rían.” I smiled as his eyes continued their glances.

“Rían….That is beautiful….” His words trailed off and somehow I did not get the feeling he was meaning my name. I selfcounciously checked myself to make sure everything was in order, and I realized just how awful I must have looked to him. My dress was worn and torn in several places, and there were blades of grass stuck about on it, as well as in my hair. It was at that point I figured him to say his respects and move on. But he did not.

“Would you like to ride with me?”

I smiled and accepted. I could not remember a time that I felt that free, and full of joy just being in his presence. And for the rest of the day we rode a ways, then we would walk and talk about things. I learned much about him and his life growing up. I hung onto every word, taking them into my heart. I spoke of my life, of my father and his service to the King that had led me in and around the palace at times. That is when he asked me to the Mid-Summers Eve Ball that was to take place the next night.

“M’Lady I am hardly worthy of thy hand, but if you would do me the honor or accompanying me to the Ball tomorrow night…”

The next day we set out about the city streets, there was much anticipation in the air of that night. Decorations were going up, banners and ribbons of all kinds. Bakers were baking, seamstresses were finishing up last minute alterations for many of the ladies dresses… a dress.. I did not really have one fit for a ball… I stopped and watched through a window at the beautiful silken gowns inside. I had seen gowns like these.. when I went to the palace, they belonged to the beautiful ladies of the court, royal and noble. Our family was not royal in anyway, my father was in the Royal Guard, and my mother came from a respectable house in Rohan. But that was as close to any royalty as we got. My father was paid well enough for us to live comfortable. But he would never spend his money so on foolish things.. like dresses you might wear only once… Silvanis must have noticed me staring at the dresses, for he grabbed my hand and we rushed inside the shop.

“Which one do you like?” He asked. He was still holding my hand.

How could I choose? They were all so beautiful. How could I choose…What did I mean choose? There was nothing to choose for. He looked as if he would buy one for me, but how could he afford it? But he continued to ask. I said nothing, but my eyes never wandered from the white one in the window.

“I’m sorry son, we don’t have time to alter any more dresses today.” The head seamstress snapped as Silvanis took the dress from the window. He ignored her and handed me the dress.

“Go on, try it on.” He smiled at me. Then he smiled at the seamstress as if he knew something she did not.

Stepping behind a changing wall, I put on the dress. It fit perfectly. No alterations needed. How did he know just by sight that the dress would fit so well? I found out later that it was because he had memorized every line and curve of my body. I stepped out to let him see, he was still wearing that beautiful smile.. but no longer wearing his skin vest. He walked over and took my hand and kissed it.

“M’Lady.. you are beautiful.”

That day I fell in love with silk. That was the very first silken gown I ever had. Though I have many now, there is none quite as special as the first.

As we walked out of the shop, I looked longingly back, watching as the seamstress held up Silvanis’ vest, examining it as if deciding what to do with it. We walked on the rest of the morning and into the afternoon enjoying each others company. We talked more, and had lunch under a tall oak. I felt at ease when I was with him, In comfort.

Later that afternoon, we parted ways to prepare for that night. I told him I would meet him there at sundown sharp. I then immediately went back to the dress shop.

[Halasían]

Thoughts there were of years gone by, of the grass wavering in the wind and a hard ride on a hot day. Of the day when beauty incarnate arose from the ground before me!

Yes... It was the days of King Araphant, and though the armies of Angmar had been long quiet since the days of King Araphor, there were stirrings again on the eastern frontier. But the Midsummers Eve festival was a time of joy for the remnents who still lived in Annúminas, and the old palace was alight and the grounds decorated, for Fornost could not compare to the beauty that was Annúminas.

Rían was therein the beauty that was Annúminas, and she grew from the grasses before me, and I felt my heart pierced before I was able to slow my horse. Though I did my best to appear calm, I was trembling inside. It took all I could muster to ask her if she wanted to ride with me.

Tha day I will always remember, and its memory I have held to for may a year. Yet if only... if only the years could have been different! Ah but that day... the day I got her a silken ball gown, and yet had little of my own to wear to such. Surely her father, wished his daughter to marry royalty, even Prince Arvedui, but it was not to be in the political ways, and Rían's heart was her own, for she had mine for the taking that day.

Yes, her face when she first wore that white gown, I see it as plain as if it were today! Yes... ever did I hold to these memories of that day.. and the night and the ball. Alas, when we parted after that day, I wished only to return to her presence, and so I turned and watched as she went back in the dress shop again...

[Lady Rían]

“Excuse me” I said to the seamstress. “I was wondering if you still had the vest that my friend sold you this morning.”

“What? Oh, that old thing? No, I don’t have it. I sold it.” She snapped. Clearly not in a good mood, only hours away from the Ball. I hung my head, I was too late. “But Old Bludger may still have it, I sold it to him, he is the fur trader down the street. Now if you will excuse me miss, unless you are going to buy something I suggest you get out of the way.”

I rushed out of the dress shop as fast as I could and down the street to Bludger’s fur shop. The shop was fairly deserted, dark and damp. I did not like the feeling of this place. Nor did I like the look of Old Bludger. He was a grumpy old man, with only one good tooth left, and by the looks of it had not had a bath in a year. I could have walked out.. I should have walked out, but I felt so bad that Silvanis had given his vest away for me.. I just had to get it back for him. I cautiously approached Old Bludger.

“Can I help you with anything pretty lady?” He asked. I did not like his tone, or the way he was looking at me.

“I..I am looking for a skin vest. The woman at the dress shop told me that s...she sold it t...to you this morning.” I stammered.

“Yessss. I think I still have it.” He grinned evilly as he named his price. “Two Hundred.”

“But.. I only have fifty.” I replied. That was my life savings. I was prepared to give it up for Silvanis. For even now as I stood there. I ached inside, missing his presence. But I did not have enough, I turned to leave but before I got to the door, Old Bludger stepped in front of me, blocking my path to the door.

“You can have it for fifty… if….” He looked me over with his eyes. “..You..give me somthin in return..”

Feeling very uncomfortable I backed away, but he moved with me, getting far to close. He was much taller than me and seemed to tower over me by at least a foot or more.

“I..I don’t understand.” I was frightened. I continued to back away until I could not back up anymore, pinned between him and the counter. His dirty hand caressed my face.

“Such a beauty you are..an hour is all I ask..”

I gasped realizing what it was he wanted in return. Terrified I ducked under his arm and ran for the door. It seemed so far away, my heart was beating fast in a panic. I almost got to the door when I felt a hand grab my arm. He had me. I was not going to get away.

“No! Please! Let me go!” I yelled. I pulled trying to escape his grasp.

“Rían!”

I heard a voice call, and instantly I was released. I ran to the door and fell in Silvanis’ arms.

“Are you alright?” He asked kindly, brushing a few locks of hair from my face. I was still breathing very fast. He looked at me and knew something had frightened me. He looked up at Old Bludger with accusing eyes. They held each others glances sternly, even as we turned and walked out the door, the last thing I heard was that voice.

“The offer still stands!”

We got a safe distance away and we stopped, and Silvanis turned to me. I was crying.

“What were you doing in there?” He asked as he wiped my tears away. “That man is dangerous!”

“I..I.. was trying to get your vest back.”

“Oh, Rían,” He pulled me to him and held me close. He was so moved by what I had tried to do. I held to him tightly, and I am sure he felt me tremble. Though he did not know the full reason why.

“I do not need that. I need only you.” He said softly and kissed the top of my head.

After assuring I was going to be okay, we had to part ways again, but we loathed to. Even for the short time it would be, I did not want to leave him. I did not know if he knew what happened to me in Bludger’s shop, but he knew I was shaken up. Added to the fact he did not want to leave, he escorted me back to my home where I was going to get ready for the Ball.

My father was already ready to go, when I arrived. He was eating supper, for he would be working that night, and not enjoying any of the festival at all. I sat down with him though I did not eat, and I told him the news I would be going as well.

“I am going to the Ball tonight too father.” I was excited.

“Oh?.” He asked curiously. “Now Rían.. as much as I would like you to go and enjoy this festival, I am working tonight. And I do not wish you to be there alone.” He continued eating as my mother moved back and forth from the kitchen. “You never know what loons might be out there.”

“But I will not be by myself father. I was asked to go.”

“Oh, by who dear?” My mother asked, obviously listening in the midst of her many trips to and from the kitchen. “Oh my! Did Prince Arvedui ask you?” She gasped, getting excited.

My mother and father had always hoped that beyond the political bounds the Prince would choose me as his bride, for being at the palace at times he had seen me and noticed me well. But it was not meant to be, for I was not in the Royal line, so that would have never happened. As it was the Prince had given up on me, for he was bethrothed to Firiel, the daughter of King Ondoher of Gondor.

“No. Because Prince Arvedui is set to wed Firiel of Gondor by the end of summer.” My father interupted. He did not try to contain his disappointment. I guess my mother had not heard the news.

“So who are you going with dear?”

“His name is Silvanis. He is a Ranger.” Just saying his name brought a smile to my face, and the longing in my heart to see him again. I continued smiling, but my father had stopped eating. I did not notice as my mind drifted off to Silvanis. “I think I’m falling in love with him.” I added, glowing. My father dropped his fork and it crashed to the plate, startling both me and my mother.

“Absolutely not Rían. I will not have you consorting with one of their kind!” My father snapped, wiping his mouth with a napkin. He was obviously through eating now.

“One of what kind? What are you talking about?” I did not understand. What was wrong with being a Ranger?

“They are wanderers. And so are their hearts. They have a different woman in every city they travel. You are not his first and you will certainly not be his last! He will forget about you and not come back!”

My father did not have a way of explaining things gently. His words seared my heart, and I felt tears welling up in my eyes.

“You speak of them as if they are all that way! You do not know him!” I cried as I stood up and tore myself away from the table, running upstairs, I could no longer keep the tears from coming.

“I have seen enough to know!” He stood up angrily calling after me. But I was already gone. He sat back down resting his head in his hands. My mother could no longer stand there not saying anything.

“Hollinstadt! How could you upset her like that?!”

“Believe me Rohanion, I have seen them. I know what they are like. What makes this one any different? They make these women believe that they are the only ones for them, then they are off with another sprouting the same nonsense. They never return. I will not have someone like that taking advantage of my daughter!”

“Yes, they have a very bad reputation Hollin, but do not judge this boy before you meet him.” She placed a hand on his shoulder. “It’s only a ball. They are not to be wed for pity sake.” She smiled as she went back into the kitchen, leaving my father with those words to think about.

Upstairs, I sat on the end of my bed crying, and I held the white silken dress to me. I could only think of the words my father had said. And it hurt. Silvanis was not like that! He could not be!… I had only known him for two days, and already he had captured my heart, filling a void, and giving me hope. I felt an ache inside when I was not near him. He filled my every thoughts… I love him…

I don’t know how long I sat there crying. But suddenly I heard a voice from the door. It was my father’s voice, and it was a lot more gentle now.

“Rían?” He stood there. Trying hard to find the words to speak. “Are you ready?”

“Where am I going?” I weeped softly.

“To the Ball…” He sighed. “A wise woman once told me..’Judge not the man, without sight first.’ I am sorry Rían, my daughter. I will do my best. Now get ready. And I will be your escort.” He turned and started to leave the room adding, “What better way to arrive at the Ball than in the company of the Royal Guard.”

We both smiled, and I finished getting ready.

[Halasían]

It would be an evening to remember. I went dressed in the best I had, a white silk shirt that was rather sheer and had billowing sleeves cinched tightly at the wrist, and a thick, smooth black vest and matching leather pants. I cleaned my black boots as they were the only ones I had, and they looked fair. I had no jacket or cloak that would pass muster at the palace, for I was yet assigned mine, but the night was a warm one, warmer than most Midsummer days, and the breeze from the south was indeed warm. It was as though the desert winds of Harad had found themselves lost and have come to Evendim, yet when the breeeze calmed, you could feel the coolness of the air from the lake. It was a beautiful night.

I had arrived early, wanting to be there when Rían arrived... if she arrived. I knew if she did, her father would most assuredly be with her for he would be curious as to who had asked his daughter to the ball. Rían had told me her father was of the royal guard, an elite position to have in the armies of the King, yet I was a new recruit to the army, and had orders for my first assignment after the long and hard training. I was assigned to the Rangers of the eastern border, which was the hardest and most rugged outfit to be with. Their reputation was that of hard men who kept to themselves, yet it was they that kept the increasing activities of dark forces to the north at bay. But I had my first posting, and I was proud to have made it.

There were many at the palace grounds, where soft glowing lamps were hung about the decor on the palace grounds, and there were banquet tables and low tables to sit at upon the soft, fresh cut grass, and a large open space where I was sure the dance would be. The Royal musicians were setting up and some were tuning, and I was asked to help move some tables where fine craftsman wares were displayed to be sold. Standing around, one so fair came up to me, and asked me,

"You are one of the new men?"

'Yes, awaiting my first post!' I said proudly.

"You will be a Ranger of the eastern front. You leave tomorrow and serve for a year. You will report to Dúriel, commander of the east. He will be in Fornost in three days time."

I was stunned that this man was telling me my post, but then I noticed what he wore on his breast. He was high in the command ot the King, so I wanted to impress him, and thought he would escort my out of the presence of such royalty. I could only stammer...

'Yes... yes sir!'

"I wish you well on your journey, yet tonight enjoy the ball. I dont believe I know your name ....?"

...'Silvanis, Silvanis of Evendim' I said looking at the entry gate that had been made. A coach had arrived bringing the early guests, but it was not Rían.

" You are awaiting someone?"

'Yes I am, Rían, lady of Annúminas, daughter of Hollinstadt, Royal Guardsman to the King, and Rohannion, fair lady of Rohan.'

He looked at the door and his face softened at my mention of Lady Rían. He smiled slowly in a way that spoke of a hope and dream lost to reality of the days, and he looked at his hand where a nice jewelled ring dwelt. His other hand went over it and he smiled ever more before he looked at me.

"Yes, Rían.. such beauty here in Arnor..."

he paused before smiling and continuing...

" You do well to call to one such as she, and I wish you and she well. I will come and talk again when the ball is going, for I need to be away from the heavy formalities I have to do."

'What do I call thee sir?' I asked him as he did not give me his name...

"I am Arvedui, prince of Arthedain, heir to the kingdom of Arnor. I hope you dont hold it against me. You are a good man Silvanis of Evendim, and the time I see coming, and may yet be on my watch that we will need men such as you evermore."

He took something out of the pocket of hs fine deep blue velvet coat and he pinned it on my vest above my heart, He had another to put on my shoulder, but he looked and saw he was being summoned, so he set it in my hand.

"This is a ranking of the order of Arthedain, of which I am empowered to give. I am supposed to give them for valor, yet I see in your eyes that you have it already and will prove yourself worthy, and I may not be able to award you properly at the time. Now, If you will excuse me for a time..."

I stood there in awe. The Prince heir was a common soul, and seemed to hold his position in a distance, yet not. I looked at the deep blue jewel in my hand, a stone of valor in the armies of Arthedain, and then the one on the vest. I did not deserve to wear such, and I would take it off if it was not placed there by Prince Arvedui. But I did not place the other, but stowed it securely in the tight vest pocket that the other was pinned on. I brushed my vest, and I looked at my attire... so plain in light of those arriving, and so I stayed by a tree near the entry, watching for Rían.... how will I tell her??

[Lady Rían]

The western sky was a warm red, as the sun was setting low casting its last remaining efforts across the horizon. The ride to the Palace was long, at least it felt that way. For I wanted to get there as fast as I could to see Silvanis again. His eyes how they sparkled when they looked into mine, his voice and his words how enchanting, as he captivated every fiber of my being. I dreamed of dancing with him through the night, and of the first kiss I hoped to receive. The ache inside of his absence was replaced by the flutter of anticipation. Tonight would be a wonderful night.

My heartbeat quickened as the coach slowed. We had arrived. We had to wait in line as many were in front of us. My father gave me the royal treatment. When we pulled up in front of the gate my father stepped down, and in very royal fashion opened the door, bowed, and took my hand to help me down, wearing the white silk gown that Silvains had got for me earlier in the day. Then he hooked his arm with mine and escorted me through the gate.

“Who is she?” “Must be a Princess.” “Maybe not, but royalty for certain.” I heard many whisper.

Many heads turned in my direction as the endless stream of guests continued through the gate, but my eyes were looking elsewhere, I was looking for Silvanis. As we entered I saw him standing under a tree. He was not looking my way at first, he looked deep in thought until the endless whispering caught his attention, and his eyes met mine. Something about him seemed to glow as he walked towards us. Standing before us he gazed in my eyes, bowed low, and said.

“Good evening My Lady. You are the beauty that illuminates this night as well as my heart.”

“You are Silvanis?” My father asked.

“Yes sir.”

My father’s eyes looked him over, stopping and staring at the jewel that was pinned on his vest. I too noticed it. He had never worn it before. My father seemed to recognize immediately what it was. And was actually pleased, he smiled.

“The jewel of the order of Arthedain… for nobility and valor. You must have done a great deed in your service for such a high honor.”

Silvanis looked nervous, like he wanted to say something. But my father seemed so impressed, his tone and eyes changed. He looked at my father and then to me, but he could not speak.

“I leave my daughter in your care. I trust you will take good care of her.”

“Yes sir”

“We will meet again later this night, you can tell me of the tale of valor.”

My father took my hand and placed it in Silvanis’, then he smiled kissed me on the cheek and proudly walked away to his post. I smiled. Finally I was alone again with him. I wanted to wrap my arms around him in delight, but I refrained. Something about his eyes told me something was wrong.

“You look wonderful this evening.” I smiled. I looked to the jewel on his vest. “The jewel is beautiful, as are you M’lord, I didn’t know…”

“I didn’t….” He interupted.

“Is there something wrong?”

“We need to talk..”

He took me by the hand, and led me back to the tree. I did not know what he was about to tell me would change my life. I did not know that this would be my last night with him.. for the next twenty years..

[Halasían]

Yes, I remember every detail of that night even now... Rían and I walked silently through the grass toward the lake. Soon one of us would have to speak, yet right now we held each other's hand and stepped silently. We were lost in thought of that night.... that beautiful, most happy night... and the sad, painful morning after... I stopped and turned to Rían, not really knowing what to say after so much time bewteen us. My eyes caressed her face, ever beautiful, yet the strain could be seen there. I could see in her eyes that she, as I, was deep in memory of that night...

I waited nervously, seeming an eternity yet it went so fast. I watched for Rían as everyone arrived, and passing thoughts as to how to tell her of my sudden posting. Would she leave me there, thinking I had known? Surely the Prince would tell otherwise? Will she wish to be seen with a Ranger of the eastern march?

Time for the mind's hurried thoughts came to an end when a lady, dressed in white silk, was walking toward him with an escort of a Royal Guardsman. Surey it was her father, and so I braced myself for the upcoming questioning... I could feel the heat as I fought back the perspiration, for walking and riding out in the grass with her was one thiong, to be here at a royal ball, and all that has happened suddenly with the Prince, and meeting her father... I was worried...

'Good evening My Lady. You are the beauty that illuminates this night as well as my heart.'

.. is what I blurted out nervously. Her father, Hollinstadt of the King's Guard took note of my recently given award, and I would have to tell him how I got it... yet the hardest thing I had to do was tell Rían... Words escaped me in short bursts, as though I had to force them past the lump in my throat. She could see there was much on my mind, and after my few yet hard to say words with Hollinstadt, he entrusted me with his most beautiful and beloved daughter. Rían could see the concern on my face and we stepped away to where I was standing before by the tree....

'Lady Rían, there is much I wish to say to you, but it all trips up in my mouth and throat. You are by far the most beautiful woman here! And the joy I had hoped this night for us has slipped away. I have been assigned to duty starting tomorrow...'

'I could see the smile fade slowly from her face as she feared the worst. I had to finish what I would say...

'...I am leaving in the morn for Fornost, then for the eastern marches for a years duty...'

I could see the wetness in her eyes as she stood before me frozen. I took her hands in mine and looked her in the eye...

'Prince Arvedui assigned me this night as I arrived and awaited you. So excited I was to be with you I arrived early. Oh if I was arriving now or later, I may not have this assignment...'

"He... he assigned you? tonight?? Why???"

...she said softly, her voice almost breaking into the tears that were welling up in her eyes.

'Yes, yet I will return for thee, for ever since this day, I see you everywhere, and you are inside my eyes when my eyes are closed. As you arose from the grasses before me, my dreams have come true, yet why could it not have been weeks ago when I rode through the grasses? For I would have this time to spend in your presence. yet now I will be apart from you after this night...'

her hands trembled, and I could say no more. It was as if I had taken my blade and run it through my heart. I drew her to me, and she leaned into me, and my arms went about her...

[Lady Rían]

As I walked with him, hand in hand now, by the lake. I did not know what to say. Long years had passed, and though I never stopped loving him, and I had searched for him long for many years. My despair had led me to give up ever seeing him again. Yet here he was, holding my hand, yet, he seemed to be at a loss for words as well. I had hoped that not too many years had passed that would have left nothing between us, for even as he stood here, turning me toward him, looking in my eyes, my insides fluttered, and my heart rate quickened with the touch of his hand. But my thoughts were ever on that night, bringing back the emotions felt back then. The sadness came back to me… and cut me once again.. when he told me he was leaving…


….Twas like a knife piercing my heart as I heard him tell me of his post. He was leaving me. I could not breathe, I could not speak, my hands trembled. My mind thought back to what my father had said only hours before. ‘He will forget about you and not come back’. I could not hold back the tears. He pulled me to him, wrapping his arms around me, and I leaned into him. We stood embraced that way for what seemed like hours, when actually it was only a few minutes. I cried and he held me. Neither of us spoke a word for a while, as the sun was a fiery red like the blood spilling from my heart, then faded to darkness.

How could this be? Why? Just when I found love, he was being ripped from my grasp.
No.. please… not tomorrow.. please..

With one arm around me, he held me tight as I cried, stroking my hair with the other. I buried my face in his shoulder, wetting down his vest with my tears. He kissed my temple.

“I am so sorry Rían. I will return for you… I promise.”

His voice trembled, and I almost swore I felt a teardrop on my shoulder. The night that was going to be so perfect, felt shattered. Holding me at arms length, he wiped my tears away. I could see the wetness in his eyes. In the distance I heard the Royal musicians begin to play.

“Let us have this one night.” He said, trying hard to salvage the evening.

We could have just sat in the dark holding each other that night and it would have been fine with me, but the darkness would hold no happiness for either of us. I understood he wanted to make the best of this evening. It was best to immerse ourselves into happier things. He hated to have disappointed me and bring sorrow to this night. But I was thankful he told me now.. instead of later.

I sighed, at that moment I wanted to tell him how I had fallen in love with him. How he had filled a void in my heart, how he made me happy with his presence, how he gave me hope…. Hope… there did not seem much point to it now.. in fact it might only make it harder on him to do what he must do if I tell him…

“Yes.” Was all I could say.

“Are you certain my lady? We could leave if you like.”

He must have still saw the pain in my eyes. I know we would have left that night, if I had insisted on it. He was so kind to make me feel as comfortable as possible with the ill news. Now I tried hard to hold back the tears. He was right. I wanted to be happy.. for just one more night.

I nodded my head and mustered a smile. He smiled back, and embraced me again. In parting his lips came close to mine, I thought I might receive that kiss from him I had so been hoping for. But perhaps he too, did not want to for the deeper pain it would cause when he was gone.

He took my arm and we walked and followed the now smaller streamline of people still arriving, though late.

It was dark now and the soft glowing lamps lit up the courtyard. It was a beautiful sight. Everyone was now mingling about the banquet tables, and eating. Royal waiters walked to and fro carrying trays of wine, as the musicians played on soft soothing music. I saw the area where the dancing would be. Many people were gathering there now, as one song had ended and another began.

“Would you dance with me my lady?”

I accepted and he took my hand, and we stepped in with the others, moving to the music. Silvanis was a wonderful and a graceful leader. He held me close when the music was slow, our hands linked. He looked at me longingly when our movements caused us to step apart. It felt so safe and comforting to be in his arms, I began to forget he would be leaving in the morning.. that this was our last night together…

[Halasían]

Yes... the ball, my orders, and my love for Rían all came to head that night, yet there was much more to happen....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The pain of seeing her cry, and as her tears ran down my vest and darkened spots of my silken shirt, I held her. I loved this lady so much, for I had never been touched so before, and yet who would understand?? I would try to make this night the best I can for her, and I know what I wanted to do...

'M'lady, will thee dance with me?'

I asked, and still with wet eyes, we danced. Silently holding each other we moved about the floor, and it was noted by most the beautiful lady in white silk dancing with the plain black leathered man in the white shirt. For immassioned they danced, ever moving softly in each others arms, or moving wildly about, shocking some with the boldness of the dance. For they were in love with each other, and they were heartbroken knowing they would be parting after the ball for a year, or so they thought. Long they danced, and little thought was given to food or drink until the band paused to rest, and there was some announcements to be made.

King Araphant stood up on a royal podium, and his voice carried out over the grounds...

"Ladies and gentlemen! Thank you for attending this Midsummers Eve Ball! I have a few things to say, and my son, Prince Arvedui will say a few words, and we will get back to merrymaking, for it is needed and will be remembered in the days ahead.

First, I am sorry to say this will be the last Midsummers Eve Ball to be held here by the lakeshore in the fair city of Annúminas until brighter times again return to these lands. As many of you have heard, there is a darkness to the north and east that raises its hand against Arthedain. Ever have we been opoosed since the days Isildur and his sons failed to return home from the great war, and ever my heart speaks that this same darkness opposes us now. But we remain faithful! And we will oppose this darkness wherever it is found! And with the posting of our youngest and strongest men this night, we step ever closer to forever ending this shadow that ever has been upon Arnor.

But this is to celebrate life and happiness, that which is ever less in our realm. Let everyone smile and enjoy the food and dance, and know that to the royal wedding of my son Prince Arvedui, and the Lady Fíriel, daughter of Ondoher, king of our southern bretheren of Gondor, there will be again a festival and ball in which I hope to see you all there. And now my son, Prince Arvedui..."

I stood and applauded lightly with Rían, for though the King sounded re-assuring, one could tell he strained to put that forth. The theme was dark, yet the feeling I had there was one of extreme love and happiness, yet deep sorrow and loss. And I held Rían's hand tighter as Prince Arvedui started to speak...

My friends, ladies and gentlemen! My father speaks of darkness that will not come upon him, but awaits my days I feel. Yet they are long away in the future. Right now I wish to acknowledge the royal musicians, and the cooks of the fine fare. May you all enjoy this night, for I have had to give out orders to many who had completed their training and schooling, though I had wished to wait til morning. I give honor to you all!"

I could see him looking at me, and his eyes were captivated by Rían. The weay he looked at her sent a wave of jealousy through me, yet remembering he was betrothed to the Lady Fíriel... I instinctively moved closer to Rían as he looked, and he turned away as he spoke more...

"So, to all you soldiers out there who will be leaving in the morning, I wish you all well and know you will do Arnor proud. Now enjoy this night, and lets make this the best Midsummers eve ball ever!"

I felt the feelings in the air. There was reason we were called early. The watch on the east was not going well, and it was in the air of the King's voice, and in that of the Prince though he covered it well. I looked to Rían who must of felt something as well. I turned to her as the music started to play low while people went to get food on their plates, and my blue eyes fell into her hazel ones. I took her hands and drew her nearer, and as we slowly came ever so close, I kissed her softly on her lips. It was intense with heat as the simple kiss ended, and both our eyes opened and stared widely into each others. I wanted to say something.. how much I loved her or an apology for being so bold. Her eyes spoke in her silence that she wanted to slap me for my boldness or return the kiss.. for an awkward moment we just stood and swam in each other's eyes, and I could see her love for me pour out, and I hoped she could see my love for her pour out to her. My hands slid around her, one around her waist, the other up to between her shoulderblades, caressing the soft silk against her skin.. and I took her lips to mine once again, evermore filled with passion. Long it went, and we were oblivious of all around us. I finally broke in a gasp, and holding her to me, I whispered into her hair,

'm'Lady Rían, I am falling in love with thee...'

My words were barely out when she took my lips to hers again, and she gasped words of love to me and we hugged and started to sway ever slightly in each oither's arms. Danced we did, and I only took notice of one thing the brief time my eyes were open, and that was Hollinstaadt and Prince Arvedui talking, and looking at Rían and I....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[Lady Rían]

“I think I already have… I love you Silvanis.”

My heart beat wildly, my breath came fast, and this time it was I that took his lips to mine, with much passion and intensity that spoke of my love that had been quietly yet fiercely building. Joy surged through my heart as I held him and we swayed. He loved me and I loved him. And our love poured over each other like a roaring river.

I did not see my father and the Prince talking. My eyes were closed holding to Silvanis. Lost in a daydream of life and love, walking in the amber fields hand in hand for the rest of our days. I heard his voice calling.. calling to me.. ‘Rían! Rían! I love thee!’ Yes! Silvanis yes! I love thee! ‘Rían!’ A voice called again.. but this time it was not Silvanis.

“You two have gained quite the attention out there in the dance. You looked wonderful.” My father said, a wry smile on his face. I smiled gracefully, but I felt something amiss.

“Rían, my daughter. Be a dear and bring us some wine.”

“But father I…” I began to protest. I did not want to leave Silvanis’ side for a moment, I still clung to him, his arms around me.

“Now. Rían.” His voice snapped. Not loudly, but with much assertion. I was taken aback. It was clear to me now that my father wanted to talk with Silvanis…. Alone.

I took my leave pulling away from Silvanis unwillingly, and walked away slowly, looking back over my shoulder I watched as my father put his arm around Silvanis and began walking the other way.

“I would ask you your tale of heroism that earned you that jewel, but his Highness has told me he gave it to you himself this night. For future deeds not yet done. He seems to take a liking to you, so does my daughter. But I wary.”

They stopped walking and Silvanis turned to my father.

“I’m afraid I don’t understand you Sir.”

“Do you love my daughter Silvanis?”

“Yes Sir, with all my heart Sir.”

“Temptation Silvanis. Long nights away from your homeland. The heart and the body seeks just one night of comfort.. and then another. And so it begins…. The reputation of ‘The Wandering Ranger.’ Wandering the different lands… and…there are women in these lands, that pray on the wandering Rangers… Most of the Rangers succumb to these temptresses. They will tempt you... what promise can you give my daughter that you will not fall to that temptation?”

My father looked down on him with eyes of steel. His words were harsh and direct. He wanted answers. He wasn’t about to let anyone take hold of my heart, then only to leave and shatter it, to broken promises.

Silvanis’ eyes held my father’s for a moment. He did not speak right away. Perhaps he was thinking of an answer.. or perhaps his eyes had caught sight of me…..



I had made my way to the bar that was set up near the eating tables. All the waiters were there refilling also. My eyes kept looking back watching Silvanis. It looked like my father was really digging into him with questions. I felt bad for Silvanis. And my thoughts drifted again to my fathers words from earlier in the evening. Why was my father doing this? I bet if it was the Prince my father would not be questioning him so….

I felt a hand touch my shoulder. I turned my head slowly to see the face of Prince Arvedui, he looked at me wistfully.

“Lady Fair, there is no beauty in all of Arnor that compares to the lady before me.”

“Your Highness.” I bowed low.

“Rían…In all our long years, you have never called me that.”

He smiled. It was true..I had never refered to him with anything but his name. I never really looked upon him as being anything but a boy.. a man. Not an heir to the crown. We had been friends for quite some time. Always in the hopes he would get swept away and fall in love with me, my father kept me close to the palace as often as possible when I was growing up. Arvedui was a wonderful man, beautiful, tender hearted and kind. But as of late I did not feel close to him anymore.. our lives had since drifted apart. It was not meant to be. And we both accepted it… and moved on..

“ I see Silvanis has taken a fancy to you, he is a good man. My happiness abounds for you both.”

How could he be happy for us? Silvanis was leaving me in the morning, and our love would not be given the chance! I became angry. My thoughts raging. He had given Silvanis his post.. Why?… Was he jealous of our love? If he couldn’t have me, would no one else?….

“Then why are you sending him away?!!” Bitterness, anger and sorrow filled my voice as I spoke sharply. I gasped, and Arvedui was a little shocked. What was I doing? He was the Prince! Even as a friend, I had no right to speak to him in such a manner.

“I am sorry M’Lor.. Arvedui. Forgive me.”

“There is nothing to forgive my lady Rían. I understand. This is a very emotional evening for you. And I apologize for that. But I was not the one who ordered him away. Commander Dúriel of the east requested him. I don’t know why. Heard of his skill in training I assume. He is one of the best… but…”

He saw the sorrow in my eyes and it touched him.

“I will renounce the order if that is what you wish. I have the power to do that. However.. it is his first post.. and with a decline… he would in all likelihood be exiled…”

Rangers, and especially first years, were not allowed to decline any post. That was just the way of it.. If you were given a post.. you go… or they don’t want you. Silvanis had trained long to be a Ranger.. Who was I to take away his dream? It was only for a year after all… wasn’t it?…

“You would do that for me? Why?”

“Because I want you to be happy. I cannot bear seeing you in sorrow and despair Rían. I care too deeply for you. I always will.” His eyes held mine with pity and concern.

“My love?”

There suddenly came a voice from behind him. He turned, smiling when he saw her, he held out his hand and took hers pulling her close to him. She was beautiful. The most beautiful lady I have ever seen, flawless and perfect, her gown was of a emerald green, rich in design with a touch of gold here and there, though she sparkled like a diamond.

“My beloved! Come! I want you to meet someone. This is Rían daughter of Hollinstadt, fair lady of Annúminas…. Rían.. this… is my beloved Fíriel, daughter of Ondoher, King of Gondor.”

“Pleased to meet you Lady Rían. Arvedui speaks fondly of you”

She bowed her head graciously. Smiling ever more. Even her voice, her words were as beautiful and perfect. I bowed in respect. I was silenced I did not know what I could possibly say that would compare to the words of this Princess. She turned to Arvedui.

“My love, your father is looking for you.”

“Thank you beloved. Tell him I will be there shortly.”

Still holding her hand he kissed it, then he kissed her on the cheek, and she walked away. This made me ache inside, I missed Silvanis already. He turned back to me, still glowing from the presence of his love. His eyes met mine again, and his glow diminished slightly. He could see the answer in my eyes.. see the pain clearly.. he knew I would not let Silvanis be exiled.

“Rían… It is only for a year… he will return..”

He placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder, but I was not so sure. He turned me to him and saw the tears welling up in my eyes. He drew me to him and embraced me. A hug for understanding and comfort. But I was not comforted.

[Halasían]

I encouraged her to do as her father asked after he snapped at her, and she did as asked and I was alone with Hollinstadt. He questioned my award, and knowing it was yet to be proven, I was quite uncomfortable in his stare....

'Can one know all things of the future? If I could do so, I would ask now for your daughter's hand, and we be wed before I go. But it is not the way of the Dúnedain, and so I will give my word of betrothal to you, and when I return, we will be wed if it so pleases Rían...'

"Now you wait a minute! You barely know my daughter, and yet you ask for her hand? She will be wed to one who is no Ranger of the wild..."

...'yet its the Rangers who fight and die to keep Fornost and Annúminas free of evil, and the future of Arthedain in its daughters from being ravished by the evil men of Carn Dûm! You may despise me for loving your daughter Rían, and you may not respect my not having any experience, but I will prove to you and Rían...'

"You need not prove anything to Rían, for you will surely not marry her. You have come and obviously took her heart in a day... how, I know not, but ... and now you will go off and she will be alone suffering. It will be my hope that she will soon forget about you after you have been gone."

I looked toward the front of the ballgrounds, and I saw Lady Rían there with Prince Arvedui as he kissed her, and the heat boiled inside me. Surely the the other lady there was Fíriel, The Prince's lady of Gondor, but... the Lady Rían looks so eligant and lovely in the royal court. I looked away and quickly to myself.. a rather plain, rough hewn compared to those around me. I had not noticed the stares while with Rían, but now... my mind raced... I was posted to go, and by the Prince... maybe... maybe she... maybe her father was right.... for he wished her to marry one of the royal house or at least a royal guardsman....

'NO!'

I drew back to hit him in my building anger, but instead pushed by him and went out the gate. The looks and stares followed me a bit, but I could hear the mumblings, and so I walked away. What would they tell Rían? Why did I let him get to me? I paused in my steps and thought of returning, I could not let him decide our fate as such, and so I walked back, and slipped back inside the gateway. I saw Rían having words with her father, and looking around franticly for me. It was then her eyes caught mine.To her I would make my promise, and to her I will be betrothed! I will honor her and her alone...

[Lady Rían]

“I do hope you will enjoy the rest of this evening. Take heart in what is left of this night. Do not be troubled with the fate or the will of the future. Treasure this night! Cherish it! And always remember it. You and Silvanis will be my guests of honor this evening.” Arvedui took my hand and kissed it. “Farewell for now Lady Rían.”

He was right. I could not let my heart be troubled this night on the thoughts of what was to come or the absence of Silvanis. This night, would be all I would have of him…My heart lightened. I would give my heart to him this night. I will bind myself to him, and my heart will go with him on his journey. I will stand beside him in this task. I will pledge my life to him this night!

As Arvedui left, I turned to find Silvanis. I looked toward my father and there I saw Silvanis angrily walk away. He headed for the gate… Why? Blood boiled within me and I headed straight for my father, the obvious cause of Silvanis’ fury.

“What did you tell him? What did you say??!!” I demanded as I walked up to him.

“Nothing that needed not be said. Forget about him my daughter, trust me.. he will forget about you.”

“Forget about him??!! I love him!” My voice began to shake.

“You do NOT… LOVE him! You barely know him!!” My father answered with fire and anger building.

“I know enough of him to know I want to spend the rest of my life with him!”

“Lies! All lies! He tells you what you want to hear! He is a Ranger, I will not have my daughter wed to a wild and reckless, unstable, unwilling, walkabout Ranger!”

“How dare you..” I whispered, tears in my eyes, flowing uncontrollably. “How DARE you tell me who I can and cannot wed!!”

Our voices carried and people began to stare. My father looked around nervously. Not the way a member of the Royal Guard should behave.

“Keep your voice down. This is neither the time nor the place to discuss this any further Rían.” He put his arm around me and began to lead me away, to make it look nice, like everything was okay. “Now come, I have someone I want to introduce you to, his name is Prince---"

“No! Enough of this!” I stopped and freed myself of his arm. “You are always throwing me at the feet of Princes and Royal Guards!! Enough! Can’t you see they don’t want me?? Can’t you see I don’t want them!! We are not Royalty father! Yet you continue to pretend that we are!” I cried.

“I just want what is best for my family.”

“No father.. you just want what is best for you… and your status here in court. You do not care what is best for me.. nor what I want.”

And with that I could take no more. I turned quickly and left my fathers sight. He sighed and turned and left in the other direction. That was the last we spoke to each other that night.

Frantically my eyes began searching for Silvanis. I saw him finally coming back through the gate. I ran to him, throwing my arms around him and holding on tight, I did not want to let go.

“I’m sorry Silvanis! I’m so sorry for my fathers words.”

I trembled as the words came out. And so did the tears, rolling freely down my cheeks.

[Halasían]

Returning to the grounds I saw Rían with her father, and she was having words. She stormed away from him crying, and my blood burned at his attitude toward his daughter, and such as his status. But I restrained myself from going to him, and Rían found me and I lost myself in her arms.

'I Love thee Rían!

I held her to me, her tears soaking into my shirt. My hands pressed into her back as her silken dress rustled with her movement. I looked back and saw the disdainful look her father was giving us, but I let it bother me none. This was to be a joyous night, for I would have to be away to the east.

We walked toward the gate together, and I relieved one of the royal waiters of a bottle of Evendim 1910, and with Rían still sobbing, we walked out and made our way toward the lake. We were silent, only holding each other as we walked, and the stars in the clear night sky grew brighter as we distanced ourselves from the lights of the festival grounds.

Coming to tle lake shore, the water sang its quiet song as the warm summer breeze caused the water to lap at the shore. I kissed her cheek and said,

'Beloved, may it be not sad that this night should pass, for if it be your will, you will be my wife! But there are obstacles to overcome before it will be seen as a good thing in your house. And so beloved, I hold my betrothal to you, and in my heart we are husband and wife, though I will have to prove myself upon the battlefield and in my walk to your father. I love thee Lady Rían, and I swear this oath to you. I take thee with me in my heart forever until we meet again, and I will only wish for the hurrying of days until that day does come....'

Who was I fooling then? But how could I know? And now I walk again with her beside these shores, and I wonder what all befell her in the passing years, and especially the year after which I did not return as promised. And she asks if I had forgotten her.... Oh how the years burdun me now! Oh how I love her so.....

We held each other there beside the lake then, and after a time we sat in the tall grasses not far away from the shore. Her shining eyes beamed in the starlight, and I was aching, knowing I would be leaving in a few short hours...

[Lady Rían]

"Beloved, may it not be sad that this night should pass, for if it be your will, you will be my wife!...And so beloved, I hold my betrothal to you, and in my heart we are husband and wife....I love thee Lady Rían, and I swear this oath to you. I take thee with me in my heart forever until we meet again, and I only wish for the hurrying of days until that day does come...."

Heart racing, my body was tingling all over, I could barely stand, I could barely find the words to speak. Could this be? This war bound Ranger was pledging his life to me. How could I live without him for an entire year! ? How was I to know that it would have been much longer.

"Silvanis! My love... are you asking for my hand?" A smile crossed my face. I tried not to show the utter excitement I was feeling inside. But I had to be sure my hearing had not failed me nor that I did not misinterpret his words.

"If you will have me." He said, dropping to one knee. "Will you?.... Have me Lady Rían?"

Gasping and no longer able to stand, I dropped down in the grass with him. He took both of my hands in his, awaiting my answer. My hands were shaking, my heart was beating so loud I was afraid I would have to shout over the beats in order for him to hear me.

"Yes." I managed to squeak out, my voice quivered. "Yes. Ever and always Silvanis. I love thee."

Elated, we held each other fast. Parting only to engage in long kisses, full of joy and passion. I felt his entire body tremble, as he gripped me tightly, pressing his lips to mine, feeling his strong arms hold me in love.

"I am afraid I have no ring to give thee, but I give to thee my word, I promise I will return for you. In one year, no more. For I could not bear it any longer." His voice started strong, but ended in but a whisper, full of emotion.

"I will be waiting." I whispered back. And I did wait. For a long, long time.

Oh how those words rang true in my heart once again. He promised he would return to me in a year. And then we would be married. But he did not return. So many years had now passed. I wondered now after all this time if it would still hold true.

Standing here now, on the shores of that same lake where he made that promise to me, I felt the tears well up in my eyes. I felt the questions burning in my mind. Why? What had happened that he was not able to return? I ached inside to know the answers, but I was not sure if I really wanted to know, and what harm it would cause my heart.

He took a step toward me, and gently put his arms around me in an embrace and a feeling I long remember. And a new one. It was not a tight embrace, but a gentle one. An embrace of an apology. It took me back again to that night as he began to hum that song. That same song... He remembered the song...

Our bodies began to sway and he kissed away the tear that had escaped and was rolling down my cheek...

In the distance we heard the Royal Band begin to play. surely there was a dance now at the festival grounds. Oh, how I wanted to dance with him. The music was slow and soothing, and seemed perfect for the moment. Silvanis rose from the grass and held out his hand to me. Taking it in mine, I stood now before him.

"My lady. My love. I would be so honored, if you would dance with me."

Before I could respond, he wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me closer to him. Very close. Our lips grazed each other lightly. Toying with the idea of meeting again.

We began moving slowly to the music. It was not very loud, so Silvanis began to hum the melody of the music as we danced. I giggled and smiled and buried my head to his shoulder. And for that moment so brief.. I forgot he was leaving in the morning.

[Halasían]

We danced it seemed for hours, long after the music had ended, but we noticed not. The grasses flowed beneath our feet, and the wind sang out a chorus in song as we moved about in each others arms. The night deepened and we drew together, and her eyes beamed as though Varda made them and brought them from the skies. We held each other close and my hands caressed her back. Her silken dress felt so good against her skin, and soon my lips took hers to mine....

.... the light of day approached the horizon as the morning dew of the Midsummers day clung to grass and tree. Nestled in each others arms we lay, and the scents of morning arose from where we lay as we awoke. I held dear Rían to me and we spoke not, for our eyes spoke all that needed to be said. We remained there together as one until the sounds of horses could he heard coming into the city. The Northern command arrived with those from the western steppes, and I would be joining them to depart for Fornost with the rest of the company of Annúminas....

Yes, I was called to duty, and my duty was to the Kingdom of Arthedain. And we went east and north, and we held vigilence against the darkness that pressed us evermore and unrelenting from Carn Dûm. Of the lore of Arnor that was beheld in the libraries of Annúminas and Fornost, there ever is accounts of the Dúnedains struggle against the dark powers. Of the days of King Arveleg I, his reign was that of war, aand it finally took his life at Amon Sûl and there was much loss. But the strength of Arthedain then prevailed, and so it was now, though our strength evermore seemed to wane while that of the Witch King seemed to grow evermore. Dark were the day seen ahead, and it was spoken on the faces of the veterans who have seen too much of war, the commanders who could do little more than order their forces to where they thought the worst threat would come, and the hesitant doubt in the faces of the new men like me. Yes, the coming days would be hard.

In the days after I left Annúminas and Rían, my thoughts were ever on her. I thought of the troubles I had with her father on Midsummers Eve, and I grasped in hand that which i wore about my neck... her scented silken scarf. I thought of the dance and also the betrothal of Prince Arvedui and Princess Fíriel, and my own betrothal. I missed her so bad!

But time moved on, and the raids in the east were evermore persistant. Our numbers were evermore lessened by death and our duty time was extended by several months, and we stayed evermore on our own to protect those we loved. The days went by and the seasons changed, and through the heats of midsummer to the icy chills of the northern winds we held our watches. We took the fight to the enemy in the hills when we could, but how was I to know that I would lead seven men into the deeps of the Ettenmoors to find that which we suspected? And that this mossion would lead me evermore into the deeps of the wilderness? And in a years time I would find myself east of the mountains and in the realm of the Northmen by Laketown?

Long I was there, and the ways of the Ered Mithrin and the Mistys and Ettenmoors were learned to great peril. And much stores of weaponry was destroyed. but death was all I knew of friend and foe. Evermore did I grow calloused and unfeeling as the deeps of the adversary that opposed us were learned at great cost. . . . the cost to those that were with me. . . the cost of my love for Rian, and now I again walk the shores with her. Older, wiser, years passing away from us. Has another chance been given us? Can I scale the walls of my years and give her a life she wishes for even now? Or has death, war, and indescretions robbed us of our lives together? I look at her now, lines of graceful care upon her face and her eyes focused on a single blade of grass, yet her thoughts moving as deep as mine, on what we had, and what was lost to the evils of the day...

"Dear Rían, the years have passed. Tell me that which you have done whilst I was away at war? For I have seen much and have done much, that which if you would know you would not be here speaking. But I wish to know that which you thought when I came not back from the east, and my letters stopped coming? But if you care not to remember and tell, I will understand."

I sat in the grass with her now, so many years after we lay here through the night, holding her hand and stroking the back of her palm, watching as her breaths raise and lower her beautiful form...

[Halasían]

I listened to the silence that the wind broke withthe rustle of the grass. My thoughts flashed to the death... so much death, and many whom I had known since we were kids fell. Our morale was crumbling before our very eyes, yet stioll hope was held in the thought the young prince Arvedui would carry the day. Would Gondor answer the call for aid? Would the King ask for their aid? Not while we held sway over the steppes between the North Down and the Ettenmoors. Yes, death was all around, and it will always be with me. How can I give Rían that which she desires now? The years have been very kind, and surely she had many others seek her hand, but still she awaited me?

Oh but the ales and mead of the Forsaken, where the men would rest and relax and let off their steam before having to march north or east again. Why did I stop writing her? She would answer in time, but as our situation grew evermore grim, all life left me. I was dead though I marched and fought and gave orders. my last letter I sent to Lady Rían was largely unintelligable and dark, for the flickering lamplight in the winters night at the Forsaken Inn was dark... dark and cold. It was no wonder she didn't write me back, and it seemed in my black spirit that all hope was lost....


A bird flashed by and broke my thoughts, and I looked again to the Lady Rían as the wind wrapped its caress about her silken body... Her mind was deep in thought....

[Halasían]

Was it a bird?? lots of yelling and movement took hold of me, and Kaldiri said as he stood...

"He's awake!!!"

Elendur jumped down and looked into my eyes.

"Great Silvanis! You pick a fine time to come to. Are ye able to fight? We have orcs moving on us and they are smarter that orcs should be. I think there are men commanding."

I sat and then stood, and my head felt like it would split open. My hand went up and the cloth soaked in blood around my head told me I was wounded. What was it I remembered last?? I stood.

'Yeah.. I think so... where's my sword?'

Elendur looked off and directed a group of men to move north. He barked orders to stretch the line, and he turned to me with a sword.

"It was Kylo's. He fell a day after you were wounded. Your's was embedded in two orcs and a tree, an the woods burned in the battle."

'Kylo is dead??'

I muttered questingly as I took the sword. It was none too soon as three orcs came over the steel ravine and flew in on them. Elendur caught a blade across his cheek but they were quickly dispatched just in time for more to come over.

It was soon chaos, and a hell i will never forget. To wake up to such an attack, and see men fall who you lived with, shared most everything, and enjoyed the time off the line was a sobering reality. We pulled back a ridge where the archers took down their assault, but we lost the first line of ridges, and in so we lost our advantage of seeing over the grasslands to the east. this would not set well in future campaigns, nor with the commanders, but for now we were not strong enough to re-take the ground. The Dúnedain were getting weaker, and the enemy was strengthing and getting ever more cunning.

For three days we bided our time, with sharpshooter archers taking out targets of opportunity. We lost Darian and Genese this way, but Halas and Seon did the same of them with good effect. The time of calm allowed me to further heal, and ponder the visions and such I had while unconscience. Oh how he longed to be in Rían's arms again, making love in the grass near the lake! The scent of her hair! Her soft skin in my hands! Her eyes.. oh to look into her eyes again!

My daydream was interrupted by the dispatch rider, and everyone longed for news of home. No letter from Rían.... What did I expect? It has been years since I had seen her, When I left her in the grass that Midsummers morning....

"Ok men.. listen up!"

Elendur called out, and everyone turned their ears to him. The relief will not be coming, but we did get a detachment of the Fornost guard to join us. Our relief was routed north to counter moves some hillmen made into the Twilight Hills, and so they will be long in coming...

'I wonder what these lads from Fornost did wrong to get this assignment?'

I muttered as we looked at the clean kids in their well mannered uniforms. They were so young looking, but in reality they were our ages. Elendur signalled Halvarlin, our group commander, to him, and he was told where to position the Guards. Every little bit helped, but what was this saying about the kingdom? Were we lesser Rangers becoming too few that the elite outfits are being sent to the frontier? What they would like us to believe is they wanted to be sure all contributed to the defence, but I think the King knows the war will be won or lost in the Weather Hills.

They were ordered to move in line that night, and the next days sun was bright and clear. The orcs hated the light, and it took more out of the hillmen among them. With Rían an ever fading memory, it would be a good day to die. We moved up in stealth pending the order to attack....

[Halasían]

The battle went well, and we pushed the enemy out of the hills and drove them back eastward across the grasslands. But it seemed too easy, and I had to question whether we really won as our wounded were tended, and our dead buried. I sat down with the names of those I knew not long enough, and I fretted as I started to write them down. I wanted their names to be remembered, and this record would be all that their loved ones would come to know... if it survived.

"It was a hard road this day eh Silvanis?" Elendur said as he come to sit by me.

'yeah, too many dead, and too many more wounded who will die. And then there are thoise wounded who will live...'

I scrolled out a name upon a parchment. Eldoran, an man of Bree who enlisted to defend his home from the incursions of the hillmen and orcs from the north and east. He said that the first line of defense was the Weather Hills, and if they fell, then the settlements would be overrun. And now, he will be prepared upon a funeral pyre, and the guard will escort him home to his wife and daughter, and he will be put to rest and they will live their days as one of the widowed and fatherless.

"You writing your girl back home Silvanis? The one back in Annúminas?"

I paused, remembering when I would write her every chance I got. I would send them, and I would get answer. But I haven't written in a long time, and I looked down at the parchment and quill.

'No, I cannot think of balldancing and passion in the grass when there is so much death. And her father hates me, and is sure to have me stationed here forthwith until I am dead or we take Carn Dûm. Meanwhile she is there with the palace guard and other high folk of eloquent speech. She is a princess in all manner of look and deed.... no, there is no one.'

Elendur looked at what I was writing and he asked,

"How many did your company lose this day?"

I paused as the names passed through my mind. Faces I put with each one, and I was frozen...

"Silvanis? I asked how many you lost."

I was shaken, but regained my composure.

'Lost sir? Today? If you count yesterday, 12.... 7 slain and 5 wounded and can no longer fight.'

I thought of the kid.... kid, he was maybe a year younger than me... who took down three warg riders before he was un horsed, and then he stood and held his own against the beasts before losing an arm to a mightty bite. I killed it before it could finish him, and i went withthe tide. We were driven, and he lay there crying for his mother and girl. If he lives, will she want him?

"Well Silvanis, you will be pleased to know your company is going off the line for awhile. I was supposed to give you this yesterday, but our predicament would not allow for it on short notice."

I took the crumpled scroll that bore the seal of King Araphant, and I broke it open. I looked at Elendur and he said,

"Yes Silvanis, you have made leutenent, so now you are officially my right hand. You know you have been that for some time now. You write the letters and that is a burdun none but I should hold."

Elendur would do it if he could, but he did not have full use of his right hand. he could hold sword, and move his arm well in battle, but he could not close his hand to write. I had taken the duty of writing the kin of the dead from him after his wound for he saw me writing Rían all the time.

'I guess I should thank you, and send my praises to the King.' I muttered.

Elendur barked, "Dammit Silvanis! can you not be so cynical? Besides, you get to take your company south to Bree, and you can take the dead with you. You leave at first light tomorrow"

Elendur got up, and looked at his scrolls. He had promotions for several who had shown leadership in battle, but a couple he could only place upon Darius, a maimed, dying man, and upon the pyre of Hildor, of whom was one of three I would take to Bree.

I waited not for the morrow to go, but informed what was left of my company that I was indeed officially in command, and that we were to go to Bree for pyre delivery, recruit training, and south watch for a time. If I could squeeze some Rest and relaxation for the men in I would, but I wasn't told that the King's counsel would meet me there a week after my arrival.

[Halasían]

There were two that we were taking south, and Elendur sent me off with a smile. But his smile really spoke of the slow deterioration iof the situation. Here I was his second, and I was off south. It really spoke of how desparate things were. We could only hope we hurt the forces of Angmar so that they will not attack in force anytime soon.

The ride south was uneventful, and in its own way restful. Stopping at a house where Aeris, son of Ames, mother lived, was a grieving time. She had lost her husband a year earlier, and now she will have to bury her son. A fair looking woman Annafey was, appearing too young to have bore a son the age of Aeris, but her eyes betrayed the pain in her heart. She was alone now.....

The burial was brief and we stood at attention in our best battle outfits. our formal dress were all packed away and stored in Fornost, awaiting our return in victory. Will that day come?

The evening found us at the Prancing Pony in Bree. We had bivouaced north of the city west of the road, but this night I let the men have leave until noon the next day. The ale was free flowing and some got a bit rowdy, but all in all the men remained well behaved.... I left Caritas in charge at Bree and I went out for an evening ride...

The next day brought us together , and I arrived at noon proper. Casitas had the men in ordered ranks, and I rode by in review. Some swayed as they stood, and some smiled. I dismounted and asked them how they wer feeling, and a chorus of voices went up in agreement that the night was well needed. But now we had yet another burial to attend, and it would be a hard one....

[Halasían]

Rain. Falling sometimes in torrents, sometimes as a misty grey drizzle that soaks everything it touches. Eldoran's wife stood there like a statue, uncloaked against the weather. The wind rippled her black silken dress except where it stuck to her skin. I offered her my cloak, but she refused being covered, and as the words were spoken over Eldoran, I could not bear to hear it. I had just spoken some words about his valiant nature and his love for his wife and men, but to see this fine man of the Dúnedain put to rest, I turned away and walked toward the wood. The wind rained down water from the tall trees,, and the greyness was eerily silent. I lost myself there.

A hand touched me, and I realize the service was done.

"Sir? What are your orders?"

I looked around, then said,

'Let the men relax.' we will gather in two days to ride north.'

With a nod he was off, and I turned to look at the trees again. What did it all mean? The days were ever darkening and the strength of the Dunedain was declining. How much longer could we suffer so? I turned and I could see the men moving back toward town. They would be at the Pony again, and I went to the grave to pay my last respects.

"You knew him well?"
a voice soft and sad I heard behind me. The start turned me around so fast, it was the black silk clinging to skin that stopped my instinct. I was not in battle here, except with myself.

'Yes. He spoke of you much.'

She fell toward me and I wrapped her in my arms, foir her tears flowed freely.

[Halasían]

We were on our way back north now, our fill of ale and relaxation. The men did this each in their own way. The ones with family near spent their time there, while others wiled their time away at the inns and taverns. I spent the first night and day comforting Eldoran's widow Argael, and the second night and day comforting Annafey, Aeris's mother. The night we were to gather at the encampment, and the men came trickling in through the night. By first light, all were there, somber, hungover, sleepy, but to a man ready to ride proudly back north. I was one of the last to arrive.

My battle was with myself. So long ago, near the shores of Evewndim, in the grasses in the wind.... Rian.... it had been so long ago now, and the evil he had seen and done.. all for the people of Arthedain..... it was distant and who would lie with her when I am dead and brought home on a pyre? Who...

My thoughts went dark as the vision of her was evermore faded in my eyes. She was my strength, for so long I held to her, but now I hold to these men...

The ride north was uneventful if wet. The rain stopped not, only changed in intensity. We rode again into camp, dismounting and appearing fresh and clean. But our faces knew of what we had come to, unlike new recruits. The fresh faces that came when we left not so long ago now already appeared hardened. We were away for a time, but the battles ceased not.

[e.Blackstar]

Wow....I was confused at first 'cause of the perspective changes and stuff but me likey!

[Halasían]

Thanks blackstar. I am making an effort to clean it up as some of the font colors were used when TTF had a light backbround. BEing that I can't edit the thread title or the posts made by Lady Rian, I may edit and clean it up amd re-post it in a new thread. Until then, this is it. I did add a bit to the first post.

[Valandil]

... I spent the first night and day comforting Eldoran's widow Argael, and the second night and day comforting Annafey, Aeris's mother...

So Rian's father was right? Silvanis did NOT stay faithful to Rian? How sad... :(


.... Rian.... it had been so long ago now, and the evil he had seen and done.. all for the people of Arthedain..... it was distant and who would lie with her when I am dead and brought home on a pyre? Who...


I'm not sure what the underlying (no pun intended) feeling is - does he not care who would... or does the thought cause him anxiety or something?

I'm not sure now if Silvanis REALLY loved Rian or was simply an opportunist. :confused:

[Halasían]

Thats why I need to clean up the time perspective. This has grown well past what was intended.

I guess if you are looking at it in the standard good/evil - moral/immoral formula of many fantasy stories you could interpret it that way, but something I learned from Glen Cook is that shading or greying the boundries of good and evil makes for some interesting stories.

I plan on editing this whole thread next weekend.

[Halasían]

It had been some weeks since we returned, and it was as if we had never gone. We held our line of watch, and they sortied and probed to find our weakness. We had taken to sleeping during the day for they would move at night, and we had to be ready. We usually were.

The long days of summer helped our cause and the raids seemed to happen less, and we took to doing some raiding of our own. We used to do these raids before, and they were effective in keeping the enemy wary. but with the shortage of men, we stopped the practice for sometimes it would prove costly if something went wrong.

I myself was on one of these raids that went wrong. There were five of us who destroyed a cache of food we had discovered, in the wooded vales of the Ettenmoors. We thought we could be in and out, but we were discovered by a wily hillman. Surely he knew of our tactics, for once long ago the Dunedain lived in Rhuadur. But they had long since mingled with the wild hillmen or came west, and our bretheren were not there any longer. But this raid I was on.... it was a success in what we accomplished, but it was a failure in that two out of five of us were shot down by archers as we tried to make my escape. I myself had my horse slain from under me, leaving only two to return to our lines. I remember the days spent in the wild, dodging the hillmen and tracker orcs. Somehow I made it out to the grasslands, and i managed in time to walk back to the Weather Hills.

It was what I didn't know about then that had affected me so deeply. While I was lost, Elendur was called back to Fornost, having only returned days before I did. The commander left in charge was Amisul who was slain shortly thereafter. One who had overall command was the captain of the Fornost Guard, and he was Dêor, one of Hollinstadt's men. Maybe he was sent to watch me? no... he was sent by order of King Araphant, and it was his part to fight here with us though he worked hard to return again to the city guard. Part of this was a favor he did on his own for Hollinstadt... he reported me as being killed! Elendur did not know this, and neither did anyone else. Just word back in a letter, and I did not know....

So the letters did not come, and Rian dispaired at the news told her, and dark became our days....

[Halasían]

Though the letters from Rian ceased, I continued to write her. Little did I know that they went through Dêor before the curior got them, and my letters found only the flames of his cookfire. In time I dispaired with no word, and I wrote a simple scrawl on a parchment to send. But I did not send it out for the curior.. I gave it instead to Caritas, who had recently been wounded again and earned leave to Fornost. He would carry my letter and promised to personally deliver it to Lady Rian. This brought me some semblance of peace, but my word I now sent I would not change...

Caritas gathered his gear as I sealed the parchment I wrote. he said to me,

"Still writing your girl?"

'Yeah....' I replied expressionless...

'... even though its been several months since I have heard word back from her. Not since before the Ettenmoor raid, or Eldoran's funeral ride even. I has been a long time.'

"You miss her don't you.... Tell you what, I'll look her up as I am going first to Fornost."

My eyes lit for a second. It had been now nearly a year since any word came from Rian.

'Could you give her this?'

I handed him the parchment, and he readily agreed as hew stowed it in his gear.

"Of course my friend! I must go, the caravan will be off soon, and I get to ride as rearguard. You have a good time with the wet-noses... they arrived this morning."

With a hug and some back slaps, Caritas was off and I took to sharpening my sword.

[Elora]

OOC: My one and only OCC serves as notice that I have been asked to assist in the completion of this project by it's author Halasían and have happily and gratefully agreed to do so.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Laurinquë moved with customary smooth speed through the streets of Fornost. It was not an unusual sight to see this lady about at such an hour. She nodded at the men stationed along the way, familiar with each's name and they with her own. It was early evening, and a caravan of men returning was due within the hour. Laurinquë was on her way to settle them into a city that like as not was unfamiliar to them. It was one of many small ways she found to aid the Dunedain, her people, a small comfort but important in dark times such as these. For all of the comfort, though, a poignant thought twisted through her stomach. Her brother would not be with this caravan, nor any other. He was not coming home ever again.

She pushed this mercilessly to one side, nodded to a soldier who stood by the gates and stepped through. Not a moment too soon, either, for the caravan was just starting to pull in. Men's voices called over each other, competing commands and demands that all had to be met and she could meet them. It was for this reason she was here. Laurinquë had displayed in many ways throughout the war, her keen sense of organisation. She got things done.

Pack horses kicked up dust that hung in the last light of the day. It tickled her throat and caught in her blonde hair. Laurinquë paid it no mind, accustomed to the bustle of soldiers moving in or out. She moved through the gathering crowd of men, jostling as needed tired and weary Rangers until she found the head of the caravan just arrived. He swung down from the saddle, a bone weary cant to his shoulders, and eyed her up and down.

"Who are you," he asked, plainly expecting a man. Laurinquë flicked a brief smile at him.

"I was about to ask you the same question. I hope you're Caritas." she replied and shielded her eyes from the glare of the setting sun to get a better look at the Ranger she had been sent to meet and assist.

"Why's that?" he asked.

"Because it's late, it's getting dark, and I can't decide whether I fancy less reporting that the expected caravan didn't arrive or heading out into the night to find out why not."

The man smiled and shrugged.

"Did we keep you waiting? Aye, I'm Caritas." Laurinquë smiled in relief and looked over the men still arriving. Then she issued a stream of instructions about where they and their horses should be lodged, where the injured should go, where particular commanders in attendance at Fornost were stationed and for how long, and where food, ale and a hot bath could be obtained.

Caritas took it all in his stride. From her manner and her bearing, he recognised a woman accustomed to some authority.

"As for you, you likely have reports to make too, but they can wait till you're rested. Is there anything else?" Laurinquë asked Caritas.

"What's your name?" he persisted. Laurinquë flushed at her oversight and smiled in a self-deprecatory manner.

"Laurinquë," she replied. Caritas chewed that over momentarily and recognised it.

"I knew your -" he started and trailed off when her smile faded. It had been a long time since Caritas had seen a woman smiled. Laurinquë pushed dusty blonde curls back from her face and let the freshening evening breeze cool her skin.

"You knew my brother." she said softly, nodded once in acknowledgement, and gathered the skirts of her dress in her hands to take her leave.

"I'm sorry," Caritas said hurriedly as she turned away. Laurinquë, so named for the golden flowered tree of now spent Númenor, looked over her shoulder to the Ranger she had been speaking with, not unkindly.

"You were not to know, Caritas, nor are you the first to say as much." Laurinquë did not smile, but nor was there anger there. Caritas dropped his hand and let her move on. The sun had set and torches lit the area by the time the wounded had been sent for healing and the dead to their final rest. Those able to walk had emptied out, sent for lodging or to their sweethearts and families by Caritas. Horses had been collected. It was quiet evening again. Another job was done. Laurinquë stood by the light of one torch and stared hard into the growing darkness beyond this final boundary of Fornost.

Where had her brother been buried out there in the night? Did the stars keep his grave company, or was it in the cold shadows of some desolate hill? She wrapped her arms about herself and tried to recall lighter days now some 20 years passed, before the war. It was not easy to remember. Sensation shivered up her spine shortly before Caritas spoke, startling Laurinquë somewhat.

"I don't suppose you could do one more thing to help me, Lady Laurinquë, he said, coming to stand beside her. Laurinquë had recovered her equilbrium in that time.

"How may I further aid a Ranger on his furlough," she said, a faint smile to ease his apprehension curving her lips. It was a sad smile though, Caritas thought. He studied this sister of the Ranger he had fought beside a moment. Her brother's steel ran through her spine sure enough, he deemed, and though the years may sit heavy in her thoughts they were light upon her features.

"You would seem to be a woman who knows all there is to know in Fornost," Caritas said. He was trying to be light, but years spent with fighting men made this a difficult feat indeed.

"You would seem to be a man unaccustomed to flattery," Laurinquë responded, and this time she laughed lightly. Caritas fell silent, soaking up the soft sound of a woman's laughter. He smiled wryly at himself.

"Well then, I'll come right to it. I forgot where you said the Rose and Sword inn was... and,"

"Oh, I'll show you, Ranger. Valar forbid I let a Ranger get lost in Fornost on his first night." Laurinquë said, turning towards Caritas with a friendly smile that helped push back her sorrow.

"And there is something else," Caritas said. Laurinquë raised a golden brow playfully at him. She missed jesting with her brother easily, like this.

"I was hoping you could direct me to where Rían, Lady of Annúminas lives. I have tidings for her that she will be glad to receive, from another of my brethren."

"Silvanis?" Laurinquë whispered in the flickering light. Caritas noted her smile had dissolved anew.

"Aye," he said, uncertain and wary now. Laurinquë's eyes were hard to read. She sighed and shook her head.

"Come, I'll take you to the inn and we can discuss this matter there." She said mysteriously. He was weary and he didn't need Laurinquë to say as much to know it. So he fell into step with this golden haired lady and was glad beyond words to come to the inn, and moreso a table and a chair and a full tankard of foaming ale.

Laurinquë, said little, knowing instinctually that silence is often what a recently returned soldier needs, not endless blather. She held a smaller tankard of the same dark ale in front of her and shook dust from her hair. In the better light of the inn, Caritas could see her more clearly, and realised that she was wrestling with tidings. Concerning Silvanis' sweetheart, he wondered? When Laurinquë brought her eyes to meet his, he noted that they were a silvery blue, changeable, and filled with questions and uncertainty. What was it that she had to tell him?

Whatever it was, she did not begin until after she had seen him eat a sizeable meal of lamb stew and fresh vegetables. Certainly, she was wonderful company compared to his usual meal mates. She used cutlery, didn't steal his food when he wasn't looking and didn't belch after eating. Caritas belated recalled that fact after he had forgotten and force of habit took over. Her eyes widened and she actually laughed.

"Well, you've fed and watered me," he said, "When shall you inform me, Lady Laurinquë?"

"Perhaps, yes... I will return tomorrow, after you have rested." Laurinquë evaded and stood of a sudden. Caritas shook his head and demurred, but she would have none of it.

"Tomorrow morning, after breakfast," Laurinquë said firmly, her mind decided on the matter.

"How will I know if you will return, and when that time that will be?" Caritas protested. Laurinquë smiled down at him from where she stood.

"You don't have to, Ranger, but I do and I will." And with that, she was off and Caritas was consigned to a comfortable bed and his first proper night's sleep for longer than he could remember. Unfortunately, it was broken, by dreams of battle, of death, and the msysterious woman who had greeted him upon his return to the city.

Laurinquë's night was no easier. She did not so much as walk to the house her brother had left her, but ran. Her mind tumbled with thoughts that would not let her rest... So she rose, acknowleding defeat, and by candle light wrote the most difficult letter of her life - to a ranger she had never met, concerning Rían, Lady of Annúminas.

[Halasían]

Life had not been easy for Rían when the official letter came reporting Silvanis dead. Even before, his letters stopped coming even though she wrote still. Now, with her father giving her the news, she was crushed. For days on end she lay in her room in the dark, until one morning she came forth.

Cold and silent she was, but she again took part in the affairs of the house. Her father had alot of social commitments and she again began to accompany him and her mother. She was in pain, but she worked at drowning and numbing it. If they were at the dinners, she imbibed silently in the wine and spirits.

It was not long before Kallam, long time friend and ranking commander of Prince Arvedui's guard, would come more and more to the Palace and dine with Hollinstadt and his family. It was Kallam who Rian's father Hollinstadt wished her to marry if she couldn't marry the Prince, and Kallam always did fancy Rian. But Silvanis came into her life and turned her away from him, and he had despised this Ranger. But now with Silvanis dead, he again thought of her. As the days went on, Kallam called upon Rian more and more, and she would accompany him to high social functions of both the King and the Prince, and at the Mettarë festival, they were wed. Rian smiled again and appeared happy, but deep down the shadow of Silvanis was never far away.

Kallam was happy to be married to Rian, and she would always be by his side when he was in the city. But he was often off to Gondor on the business of the Prince, and she lingered about her living quarters with her wineglass. Rian found an advantage to living in the Prince's palace wing in the home of Kallam... her little sister Ráinna wasn't nosing about her business and watching her every move. So Rian would go out at night in disguise, and she would go to the inns and taverns and drink wine and watch the soldiers, longing for Silvanis to be one of them. But he would never come.

Soon she would come for the company of those like Silvanis, talking and drinking and comforting the soldiers of Arthedain, and so it was this night when she came to Caritas.

The next morning, Caritas was up early. He was waiting for breakfast to be served as le looked for Laurinquë. She came and sat with him as they both ate. Laurinquë was clearing her throat to speak of that which she could not say to him the night before. But Caritas waved her off from speaking...

"As things are, I will not have need to call upon Lady Rian. Surely you must have known of her and could not speak of it? It is ok Laurinquë. Her secret is safe with me."

Laurinquë's face looked puzzled. secret? What did he speak of? She pondered his words as her hand held a sealed parchment under the table...

[Elora]

Laurinquë shifted in her seat, uncomfortably aware that Caritas watched her closely. Her cheeks flushed and her thoughts pulsed swiftly. She stared out the window into the early morning a long moment. When Laurinquë brought her gaze back to Caritas, the intellect behind them gleamed silver bright at him.

"Caritas, I know well enough just how perceptive you and your brethren are. Have you forgotten my brother so readily? Think you that I do not know well the clever wiles of a Ranger?" Caritas was taken aback by the subtle accustations that lingered beneath the surface of her words. He was dealing with a woman who trod between court and war, and did so nimbly. All he had meant to do was make it easier!

"I have no idea what you refer to Lady, and I have no care to find out. I speak plainly, nothing more or less." Caritas did not need to raise his voice. Laurinquë frowned at the rebuke all the same.

She flushed, a delicate hue colouring her cheeks and making her eyes all the bluer, and then brought her hands and the letter she had spent all night labouring over to the table. She pushed it towards him, clearly unhappy and uncomfortable.

"It is all in here anyway. Rían married elsewhere, unhappily it is true. That is no secret, save perhaps from Silvanis and you also - I had mistakenly thought."

With that, Laurinquë stood abruptly again. It was the second time she was in a rush leave within a day.

"I apologise profoundly if I have offended you, Caritas. My brother's memory demands better treatment from one such as I," she finished and was off again, or so she thought. Caritas was already onto her. He was up and out of his chair and standing before her. Laurinquë gave up untangling her pale green gown and crossed her arms under her chest. Pride meant that she met his gaze. Colour still suffused her cheeks. Caritas threw his hands up and shook his head.

"Clearly we both had a long night,"he said. Laurinquë nodded slightly, reluctant but honest. "And clearly we do not mean to offend each other."

Laurinquë nodded more emphatically. Caritas gestured towards her newly vacated chair, the one her skirts still clung to such had been her haste in rising and was faintly relieved when she took her seat again with smooth, efficient grace. The letter she had provided sat, bright white, unopened and beckoning on the table between them when he sat again.

"I am sorry, Caritas." Laurinquë said after a moment, and actually smiled at herself in self-deprecatory manner that was both disarming and unexpected in a noble woman.

"I have never met Silvanis, but I am sure he deserved a better lot in love than that which has been given to him," Laurinquë said after a while. "How did you know of Rían? Last night you did not."

Caritas shifted in his seat, wondering how delicate he should be. In the end, he opted for discretion. Still, Laurinquë had the wits to know exactly of what he spoke. Her eyes grew wide and she fell silent a moment.

"Oh," she said eventually. "Well, I didn't mention that in my letter. I didn't think it necessary to do so, on top of everything else... What will you do?"

Caritas blinked at her and said, "Me? Why... what can I do? Rían makes her own decisions and if this is how she choses to spend her life and her family's good name, what can I do.... besides, meddling in another's affairs is women's work - or so I though..."

Laurinquë smiled, warmly and with considerable humour. Laughter shimmered beneath her response to his flustered comment.

"No... I meant what will you tell Silvanis?" she corrected him. Caritas felt relieved a second time that morning.

"Oh, that.... what did you say?"Laurinquë pushed the letter towards him. Caritas unfolded it carefully and read through the script Laurinquë had set there. He read it twice, nodded and refolded the letter.

"Well?"Laurinquë prompted.

"Well, I think you've said enough... and the rest... well, that is something that I had best tell him when I have to." Caritas summed up. Laurinquë laughed drily.

"Oh, I see your mind plainly now, Ranger! You'll leave it to me to be the messenger with bad tidings, and either upon your deathbed or his, only then will you feel you need to saying anything further." This time, there was no accusation beneath the surface. Caritas grinned back at her and shrugged in a close approximation of a ruffian.

"I think that would work nicely. Some tea, Lady Laurinquë?" he inquired, all manners after a whole night in the comforts of civilisation.

Laurinquë nodded, and added, "You'll need to buy me with more than tea, Caritas!" she said.

"Oh, what did you have in mind, then?" he replied, gesturing for tea.

Laurinquë seemed to grow shy, an unusual state for her he guessed. She studied him through her lashes, as if weighing up her request. Then, as the tea arrived, she answered him.

"Since you do not need to seek our mutual accquaintance this day, perhaps you could tell me... of my brother." Laurinquë spoke softly, and braced herself for Caritas' rejection or refusal.

Neither came. Caritas poured out the tea instead, and told her, "Gladly, Lady Laurinquë."

An hour and then another passed, and Caritas told a Ranger's sister all he remembered of her brother. As he spoke, he watched her expression. Sometimes it was sad, other times thoughtful, always proud and, also there, was a deep happiness and gratitude that warmed his heart to see.

"Thank you, Caritas.... I cannot begin to describe how much I have longed to hear those answers." It was Caritas' turn to flush now. He cleared his throat and looked around the room, debating his next question.

"What of you, Lady Laurinquë? Surely you are married... or widowed..." he ventured.

"No, neither Caritas. Who would I marry? The wounded that come in, reaching for comfort? Those too frail or precious to risk in war? Come now, don't look at me like that!"

Caritas looked innocent and surprised all at once. Laurinquë waved her fingers at him, swishing them through the air in a distinctly feminine gesture.

"My life is certainly full... and perhaps it will be blessed also in the years to come. I am too busy to be lonely in any case, and certianly I would not like to find myself as Rían does."

Caritas smiled at her, and their talk turned in another direction as Laurinquë spoke of ridiculous rumours, court gossip and the like - harmless, and assiduously avoiding the subject of Rían. Still Caritas was fairly certain that Laurinquë would never come to the straits that Rían evidently had. Also, he was certain that such an intelligent, compassionate woman would certainly have been courted, in peaceful times.

It was midday before they parted company, and Laurinquë left him with an invitation to attend the evening meal at the house she had shared with her brother. Caritas watched her depart, a slim silhouette encased in fresh minty green, and wondered if he had acquired a new friend at court, and if he would call for dinner that night. It was a brief wondering, for Caritas had more than enough to do. Reports to make, orders to receive, supplies to organise. Laurinquë had already told him where each could be done. He tucked her gently worded, yet honest, letter to Silvanis into a pocket and was on his way into the afternoon.

[Halasían]

Caritas spent the morning with Laurinquë, and it did not go un-noticed the darkening of his face at the mention of her brother. But he hid it quickly, and told of the deeds great and small..

"We could never pronounce his name, and even with the hardness that come with battle and death he still had this innocence to him, so we called him 'Kid'. Now he was in Kalinor;s command, but we would sometimes serve together on the north post. He was a good tonk player once he picked it up... cleaned me out a few times he did."

Laurinquë didn't press for details of his death, which was a good thing, but Caritas felt he owed her a little information...

"He died well in the service of our King m'lady. High in honor will he be remembered in the Eastern Watch, even if it is by the name of Kid."

When they parted, an invite to dinner came, and Caritas thought for a time whether to take her up on her kindness. Meanwhile he went to deliver notes and letters to those who had relatives in the city. Reports were delivered and he went to the physician to get his woulds checked. He would live, and a good bath he got. He stored his battle wear and borrowed gear that was more appropriate for the city.. clean black leatheers with the rayed star upon the breast of the vest. Darkness was approaching as he thought of Laurinquë. What chance would he have with such a woman. He would go for dinner, and he would leave the parchment for Rian with her. He could not deliver it now...

He found the house where Laurinquë lived. He hoped he was not late for the evening meal she spoke of. He tapped on the door, then quickly pushed back his long dark curly locks, wishing he had cleaned up better. She opened the door and the glow of firelight spilled around her through the door.

Am I late?"

..he asked.

"No, come in!"

She said softly as she back in. Caritas stepped in and closed the door.

The food smelled good and they ate and talked, mainly of life and things of joy. But after the meal and some wine, Caritas seemed to withdraw into thought. He fumbled throughthe letters he was givin by various folk to take with him to the Weather Hills. One was Laurinquë's letter to Silvanis. Next to it was also the letter Silvanis wrote to Rian...

"I don't mean to spoil dinner, but I cannot deliver this. If you ... no..."

He held out Silvanis's letter but withdrew it. Caritas then got up from the table and walked to the fire and tossed Silvanis's letter in the fire. It lit the room brightly for a moment, then Caritas said,

"I cannot do it, and it will be me to carry the news to Silvanis that his beloved Rian has married high in the palace, and it will be me who teslls that his beloved Rían lives the part of a common nightwench."

Laurinquë's eyes lit up. She had written a letter to Silvanis, but mentioned not the latter. Caritas stood quickly...

"My pardom m'lady.. It is late...I must leave in the morning...."

Laurinquë stood and got to the door first where Caritas paused. They stood there silent, eyes locked and searching each other for answers....

Yes... twenty years.... She waited a year.... but the news I had been killed wormed its way through her. Yet after 20 years Rían was here with me now after all these years. The sight of her had indeed stirred the longing of the young soldier of yesteryear. But I was not the same man that made promises that could not be kept. She was not the woman she tried so very hard now to portray before me. In a way I had indeed died so long ago when word came to her, and in a way she did too. Here, 20 years later she tells me she had waited, and I went along with it for a time. But little did she know of word that had come back to me in the east. Caritas my friend was so honest....
Yes.... we danced again like days of old Rían and I. We shared wine, and again we lay beneath the stars watching and singing, So it was that I had her again. But the dream that enveloped us there in the tall grass of midsummer was not the same dream....
....all through the night I saw in my mind first Caritas, then Kallam, and then soldiers young and old, together and alone...
... the stars began to fade in the east when I arose. Rían lay asleep, and I left two gold coins upon her before I walked away... she would know where to find me.

[Elora]

Laurinquë stood, certain and unsure both and painfully aware of how bold she must seem to Caritas. She was, afterall, blocking the door. He could easily push past her, but courtesy held his course. She stared back at him and he at her. There were things she wanted to say that she had not been able to. He was leaving tomorrow. He may not be back... so many did not come back... and he left with a burden he had not wished for when already he carried so much on his shoulders. All Rangers did.

"I..." she started, staring up at Caritas. Firelight send shadows spinning over his features. It danced in his dark curls. He watched her, patient or impatient she could not tell.

"Please," she started anew in a soft voice.

"Yes?' Caritas asked, watching her face closely. Laurinquë sighed, impatient with herself.

"Perhaps there is something I can do to help," she said.

"Oh?" Caritas said, still not certain enough to assume what she meant by help. The layers of meaning, though, were distracting to say the least. The pair stood close, staring at each other.

"I know how you struggle for supplies... the treasury is stretched thin by this damned war." Laurinquë started. Caritas nodded, silent. Was this what she meant? Treasury and supplies?

"I took the liberty of doing a little this afternoon to remedy that. What I could obtain for you and your men shall await you tomorrow. Horses, weaponry, clothing... food too and some medical supplies. It is not enough, not by far, but it is something." Laurinquë paused, hoping she had not somehow run afoul of the Ranger's close knit society and sense of honour.

Caritas stared at her a moment. "How? he asked, "Why?"

"Do more here than greet incoming wounded and soldiers, Caritas. My brother's brethren are like my own, I suppose... and I would not sit on my hands when I could do something so small when you need so much." Laurinquë brushed it aside, an inconsquential thing.

She knew people. She could not help but know people. Powerful people whom in her role had come to rely on her to aid wounded sons. Powerful people whom relied on her to give a true account of the toll the war was really taking.

Before Caritas could say anything further, Laurinquë moved onto the next matter.

"As for Silvanis... I can see clearly enough that you carry a heavy burden there Caritas. You have been drawn into this sorrow, but not by your own doing or will. He is dear to you, is Silvanis... and so, if you wish it, send Silvanis to me and I shall be the one who tells him of his beloved."

Again, Caritas asked, "Why? You do not know him!"

"You did not know me, Caritas, and yet you brought to me the tidings of my brother. His name was Uinendil, named for our mother saw the light of Uinen in his eyes just as she shines to calm the sea.

"You brought me peace, Caritas. Can I not return the same to you in this time of war?"

Laurinquë reached a hand across the very short way to Caritas' forearm.

"It will not matter so much if Silvanis despises me for the tidings, Caritas."

Laurinquë looked long, up into Caritas' face, and wondered at the turn of his thoughts. They had grown closer still together and her hand was still upon his arm. She flushed and withdrew it.

"Will you be there tomorrow morning, my lady Laurinquë? Caritas at last said. His voice thrummed through her, so close were they.

"Aye, m'lord," Laurinquë whispered.

Caritas took a half step back to bend over her hand. He held it gently cradled between his own two hands. In his, her own was so small he could easily have surrounded it with one. Laurinquë felt his lips brush over her hand and a whisper of something otherwordly shivered through her. Her eyes were wide, caught unawares, when he looked up at her.

"Then I will think on it tonight." Caritas said.

Laurinquë pressed a kiss to his brow, grateful for his consideration.

"Rest well, Ranger, this night," she bade him and stepped to one side. The door was his now. The impression of her lips on his forehead lingered still. Long blonde curls had fallen around her shoulders now. Had she dismissed him?

Laurinquë stared at Caritas still, watching expectantly, but for what he could not say. He nodded, and crossed the threshold into the suddenly cool night. When he turned back, he saw she was watching him from the window.

Should he go back? Caritas hovered by the gate and then caught a hint of a smile from Laurinquë. He felt his tension ease as he watched her lips curve upwards. No, she was no nightwench and she had said she would be there to bid his party farewell. He could see her then. There could be no promises in these times. Promises.

Caritas walked the short distance back to the inn, mulling over what Laurinquë had said by the door.

"Uinendil," he tried and grinned. The Kid had died a year ago, but he had figured out his name thanks to his sister.... and his sister had arranged supplies as well. His sister was a useful person to know. She cooked better than his brethren as well, and smelt better. She didn't look down her nose at him neither. In fact, when close, she looked up a little which pushed her hair back and brought those quicksilver eyes to his...He didn't know what to make of her suggestion concerning Silvanis though.

Caritas got to his room wearing a faint smile of his own. He had enjoyed the evenin