Guild of Elves: Rhun

[ms Greenleaf]

"RIGHT NOW IT DOES NOT MATTER WHOSE FAULT IT IS JUST RIDE...and Beth try and keep your emmotions in check."

[Earendil]

As Earendil galloped closer and closer she saw the pass in which to take but it was filled with a fog that she had never been met with before it was darka nd grey and no one not even herself could see through but she knew she had to get through and so she rode at it with great speed toward the unknown evil...

[Bethelarien]

Bethelarien, suddenly aware of her stupidity in putting Isal's life in danger, fell silent. Charmiana was right. She leaned against Isal, taking comfort from his new song, and rode on, safe in the circle of his arms. Turning her head slightly so he could hear her, she spoke. "My love, it is not your fault that I lost control. I have no one to blame but myself." She paused. "I only thank Elbereth that Radagast called me back before I got you killed." Having said that, she turned her attention back to Asfanora, urging her to greater speed, content to listen to Isal's whispered song.

[Rasec]

The mist before them looked so massive that Rasec, for a moment, thought that it could not be overpassed. But then Glorfindel, Radagast and Earendil rode towards the mist and entered the pass. Rasec followed them and so did the rest of the company. The remnant orcs were left behind, for they would not enter the pass being not able to see among the mist. The eyes of the elves were keener than ever. They, save for Glorfindel and Radagast, could barely distinguish what was about them.

But no longer after it, they heard the sound of water. It sounded like a clear waterfall, but when they reached the origin of the sound, it was but a nasty sea. The mist began to fade. The sea now touched the feet of the horses. The company stopped. All about them was now silence, but Rasec could exceptionally hear a distant murmur. It could be the wind, and though Rasec did not know what it was, he knew it was not just the wind.

- This, my friends, is the Sea of Rhûn - shouted Glorfindel. - I do not know what the enemy has done to it, but I am quite sure that it did not look like that before. The beasts that we look for may not be far now, for I can smell them in the air. They fear us, companions, and we do not fear them. That means that we have already won one part of the battle.

The company was silent, but inside their very hearts they felt honour. Rasec galloped to his father and stood beside him. Then he spoke.

- There is no time for speaking - he said loudly and clearly. - We are about to face our enemies, and you all know what to do. May the glory of Eru Ilúvatar and the power of the Ainur be with us. Let us go ahead!

The horses neighed. The company of Glorfindel the White rode onwards to the last battle against Pallando.

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmiana rode up beside Rasec and drew her sword.
She could sence the evil for it rose up like a putrid scent.

Whatever they had done to this place Charmiana did not want to think about. And yet she rode on as she knew she must... into the darkness. Inot the hands of whatever was out there. She braced herself saying quietly..."some may not return after this but let their names be honered as heroes.

[Frodorocks]

Lhunsoroniel thought desperately to herself "No! I will not let anyone die!" but knew that she was being foolish. She grimly drew Sting and waited for battle.

[Emowyn]

Emoduil drew his fathers sword and blessed it against his head, before riding forth, "For the Mark of Rohalath!" He shouted, the firast words he had spoken with deep meaning or force...

[Earendil]

"do not ride into battle knowing some shall die ride to battle knowing that you are all heroes!" and took out her sword and rode ahead after Glorfindel and Radagast...

[Isal Celebalda]

Saddled behind Bethelarien, Isal roared "We shall fight with the power and the strength of the melody! For Eru Iluvatar! For the Gwuitlon! For Middle-Earth!"

[ms Greenleaf]

One tear slid slowly down Charmiana's face for though they were brave they would not all live..."FOr Middle Earth" and Charmiana rode up

[Bethelarien]

Bethelarien heard Isal's cry behind her, and determined not to lose control of herself again. She would fight with passion and with honor, but not put any of her companions in harm's way. Whispering to Asfanora, she urged the horse on behind the others, and readied her bow and arrows. Though it was somewhat awkward with Isal behind her, she wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

[Maeglin]

Together the company crossed the pass and saw, far down below, the great fortress of the Ithryn Luin, its tower rose up hundreds of feet into the air. A swarm of orcs could be seen around the tower, "We must use stealth, and go in the back way," Radagast said, "They will have a secret tunnel for escape somewhere near-by, let us find that and take it into the fortress, so as to avoid the orcs."
"Very well," responded Glorfindel. "Can you use your magic to help us find the passage?" Radagast then yelled something in a strange language and pointed his staff towards the surrounding hills. Far off on the other side of the ring of hills an opening could now be seen. The company rode along the tops of the hills, making slowly for the entrance.....

[Rasec]

While they rode to the passage, a dark cloud was formed over their heads. It suddenly began to rain, and a fetid smell was hanging in the air. The horses stopped galloping, for they felt annoyed with the smell. The members of the company all looked at each other questioningly. Rasec approached his father and Radagast.

- Pallando knows we are here, does he not? - he asked - He is doing magic right know, father, you cannot lie to me, for I feel it. Do you think it is better not to hide it from the company?

Glorfindel hesitated and there was no reply. The clouds got bigger and the rain was now terrible. Rasec was looking intensively at his father, but he said nothing. The white elf dismounted and shouted loudly:

- We will have to abandon our horses here. The Istar is using his magic to control the weather and put the smell in the air. Let us continue walking, companions, and may our horses have a good end.

Every body dismounted immediately, but no body wanted to leave their horses. Some took a long time to bid them farewell.

- We have no time - Rasec shouted. - Our horses will survive, do not worry. Come now. We have a battle to fight.

They reached the passage with difficulty, for the rain did not let them see at all. Radagast tried to use magic to undo Pallando's spell, but the evil atmosphere was too heavy. There were no orcs blocking the passage, so they all entered silently, and the rain was left behind. Now they were in a cold dark chamber, and the only visible thing was the fading light of Radagast's staff.

[Frodorocks]

As Lhunsoroniel trudged through the dank passage, she thought of the sadness of the elves parting with their horses. She knew that Pallandos wouldn't bother himself with mere horses, it was the orcs that worried her. She comforted herself with the thought that the horses are more intelligent than the orcs would ever be.

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmiana who was near Rasec felt the chill of magic and knew its source to be both strong and evil.."Rasec I feel a -"

"Do not speak of it" he replied "they are not ready"

[Bethelarien]

Bethelarien, walking next to Charmiana, heard her words to Rasec. "I feel it also, Charmiana," she said, and then fell silent. She knew that something powerfully evil was bending its will toward them, seeking their destruction. Still, she did not fear death. Fate's hand was stronger in this than anything. Bethelarien squared her shoulders and straightened a bit, keeping her hand close to the hilt of her sword. She was ready.

[Earendil]

Earendil was soaked by the rain and her hair was dripping into her face and she could feel a chilling wind pass through her and and a chill ran down her spine she knew they were headed for evil...she gripped her necklace arund her neck and walked along in silence...

[Emowyn]

After bidding a found farewell to Rhonabwy, he sent her back to Rohan and walked at the end to the company. In his heart he was filled whith deep saddenss, but it was no the weather, for he was of elf kin, and the rain nor wind bothered him, and tall he walked on. It was the presence of darkness and evil which chilled his heart.

[Maeglin]

Glorfindel and Radagast led the way into the passage, "It will take us 2 days to go through this accursed tunnel, and what then will happen, I do not know."

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmiana rode up to Glorfindel..." I cannot see an end to this hell hole. If we go for two days what will happen next. I know that nothing can be for certain but surely you have some idea. I am afraid--- I am not used to being without idea of what will happen next..." Charmiana unconcionsly gripped the handle of her sword.

[Bethelarien]

Though Bethelarien herself did not like the prospect of two days in this dark hole, she tried to sound positive. "Patience, Charmiana. Everything will be revealed in due time."

[Earendil]

Earendil walked up to Charmania and puts her hand on her shoulder "whatever comes...you will know that we are right here fighting beside eachother...all of us together facing an evil upon middle Earth...i'm proud to be in the presence of each and everyone of you..." and she smiles at everyone, looking at each in the eye...

[Rasec]

All was dark and silence. The air was hanging heavily upon the members of the company inside the chamber. The light of Radagast's staff was but a weak grey flame. But then Rasec had an idea that would help all. He unsheathed his sword and started walking close to the Wizard. The weak light of his staff was sufficient to reflect on Rasec's blade and illuminate part of the place. "I have a smart son" - Glorfindel thought, smiling.

The beggining of the first day through the passage was exhausting. After walking about thrity miles, the company reached what seemed to be a small hall. There were four unlit torches hung on the dark, dusty walls. And when they entered this hall, Radagast's staff seemed to work better, for the light of the gem shone brighter, and suddenly Galáphix reflected the light on the ceiling, and all about them could now be seen. Not much there was to be seen, though: the four torches roughly disposed; the dust on the walls, on the ground and hovering in the air; a narrow open to a new passage. The company decided to stop for a while. They still had some food and they wanted to have a meal.

- Do not take long, though - said Glorfindel. - Pallando still think we are outside, and if we linger in this hall, he may perceive our presence in the chamber.

[ms Greenleaf]

During the short break Charmiana walked over to Rasec onn the way over he saw her shiver, he looked worried. Charmiana smiled, "I can sense the evil but it is so small compared too---oh Rasec I do not think I will ever get over it." Charmiana took a deep breath and calmed herself "I do not think that we have been descovered yet, unless this evil likes to play cat and mouse."

[Rasec]

Rasec looked deeply inside Charmiana's eyes and felt the illness of the evil on her mind once again. But he dared not to read directly her mind. He approached her and abraced her completely and strongly. Her chin touched his shoulder and Rasec could feel a tender tear roll down her face and reach his shoulder. Charmiana's body was cold and she was still shivering, but Rasec's hot body gave her warmth, and she was comforted.

- There is always hope, my lady - he said softly. - And I shall be by your side when hope reveals itself before you.

The elf maiden smiled and looked happy. They abraced each other again and stayed there, comforting themselves for a while, until the company decided to move on.

[Frodorocks]

Lhunsoroniel looked at Charmiana and knew that she wasn't feeling well again. She wished that Charmiana and the others could be happy, that the whole world could be rid of evil. But that was why she was here. She gripped the hilt of her sword. She would fight to the death and then some to bring peace to Middle Earth. She thought of her friends fighting in Harad and wished them luck. "Do well my friends." she whispered to herself. "The fate of Middle Earth rests on us."

[ms Greenleaf]

If I can stop this evil...maybe it will stop affecting me Charmiana thought, with this new ennitiative CHarmiana left the hall with the others.

[Emowyn]

Emoduil quickened his step slightly till he was level with Rasec, he lowered his voice so that the rest of the company could not hear.
"For many days now, a shadow has been growing in my mind, getting stronger and darker as we draw close to our destination. I also have noticed that not only was this hall not guarded, but there is a silcence here whic unsettles the soul. it is too quiet, the air hangs around us in clotted fumes, muffleing the silent screams of the danger awaiting us. Somthing draws near, I can feel it!"

[Bethelarien]

Bethelarien walked silently, bow in hand and ready. The complete silence was unnerving. It was too quiet, too still. The air was oppressive. She noticed Emoduil draw closer to Rasec to speak with him, and wondered what they both were feeling. Again she turned her attention ahead, trying to be prepared for anything that came at them. Continually, her eyes were moving, scanning the shadows about them. Something was not right...

[Maeglin]

At length the company came to a long and winding stair, torches were lit on the walls ascending with the stairs, "We are expected," said Glorfindel, "there is no other reason for the torches to be lit, Pallando is making a mockery of us, well, let us prove him wrong!" He began slowly ascending the stairs, which seemed would have no end.....

[Earendil]

Earendil felt an unerving feeling and turned to Emoduil who was beside her "this silence chills me...do you get that feeling that something awaits us at the top of these stairs?" Earendil asked looking worried of what lies ahead...she gripped her bow hard...as she continued to walk up the never ending stairs...

[Bethelarien]

Bethelarien walked behind Emoduil, her bow before her. She had been uneasy anyway, and Glorfindel's words had only confirmed her suspicions. This wizard was expecting them. She kept her eyes and ears open, straining for any sign of imminent danger.

She could sense the absolute evil ahead, growing ever closer.

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmiana drew her sword and readied her knives though she suspected that most of the real fighting would be done by the wizards...she looked at Glorfindel and wondered what he was thinking.

[Frodorocks]

Lhunsoroniel unsheathed Sting, and saw that it wasn't glowing. "Either Pallando has decided to attack us with something other than orcs at the top of these stairs, or they truly do go on forever." she whispered to her companions.

[Emowyn]

Emoduil nodded at Earendil. "The silence unsettles the air around us. Whatever awaits us at the end of this climb will be of the darkest evil." He smiled slighty and placed a hand on Earendil's shoulder, "You are a strong fighter. You will over come this..." His smiled faded as his voice trailed off. His hand tightened around the hilt of his sword and he looked down sorrowfully. In his heart, Emoduil knew that somehow, this battle would be his last.

[Earendil]

Earendil smiled back then it faded as she looked up at the top of the stairs once again...she knew that she probably wouldn't come out of this battle alive...whatever awaited them at the top of these stairs she knew she would not hold back and that she must no matter what get Glorfindel through everything and to Pallando...

[Rasec]

The hearts of the members of the company were heavy. The hand of the shadow was darkening all about them. The stairs semed to be unfinishable. The gem of Radagast's staff was shining, though fadingly. Holding a sword close to the gem would not make much difference anymore. But from Glorfindel a fair light was been emanated, probably conceded by the power of the Valar.

The minds of them were disturbed, save for Glorfindel and Radagast's. Rasec began to read his companion's minds, and he was worried to find out that they all had thought they would die that day; and though he did not dare read Charmiana's mind, he knew she was also thinking that. He stopped and spoke loudly.

- Listen, my companions. There is an evil here, and we are about to meet it. We are about to stand before the Istar Pallando. And the closer we get to him, the more disturbed your minds get. Do not be deceived by his power! It is his power that lies in your minds to make you weak! You must fight the will of Pallando to enter your minds. Let us use the power of the enemy against itself!

[Emowyn]

Emoduil raised his sword and tightened his grip, "By the wil of Eru I shall not let this demon enter my mind!"

[Bethelarien]

Bethelarien took heart from Rasec's words, though her mind was still troubled. She glanced at the ring she bore on her right hand, and rubbed it gently with her thumb. Though it no longer had power, it was a source of comfort to her, and keeping Vilya with her reminded her of her father, and his courage.

Thinking of her family, she determined not to let this evil overtake her. If this Istar, Pallando, were to defeat them, Middle-earth would cease to exist as they now knew it. It fell to the members of their small band to conquer this powerful evil. Softly, so that she could barely be heard by her companions, she began to sing a song of Valinor, a song to Elbereth, to give them hope. Then her song changed, and she sang of the great deeds of the Elves, and of Men, hoping to give them all courage.

[Earendil]

Earendil heard Beth's song and her heart felt lighter...she held her bow in her hand and with the other she gripped her necklace aruond her neck and although she was no longer in dismay she began to think about the things she has left behind and through all her traveling how many hearts she has lead into pain and how many friends she has left behind...and from that moment she decided that when she was out of this horrible land she would return to Rivendell and stay as long as her traveling spirit will let her...she missed her home now and yearned to return to it...

[Frodorocks]

Lhunsoroniel heard Beth's beautiful song and instantly felt better. It really is true, she thought to herself, elvish music does have healing qualities. She looked around and saw that the rest of the company looked better too. Lhunsoroniel smiled a smile of gratitude at Beth, for she couldn't stand to feel the despair of her comrades.

[Bethelarien]

Bethelarien continued on, walking and singing softly. Every sense was alert, and she watched cautiously for the enemy to appear. Though she was apprehensive about what they were to face, she hoped it would be sooner rather than later, for she disliked very much sneaking around, waiting for doom to find them.

[Maeglin]

Glorfindel heard the song and many visions entered his head of things long past: He saw in his mind the Kinslaying of Feanor, and then the Battle of Unnumbered Tears, he then saw in his mind the fall of his city of Gondolin, and his fight with the Balrog, in which he fell from the High Place. He then saw his return to Middle-Earth: his battle with the Witch-king, and the prophecy he had told to the Witch-king that come true. He saw his rescue of Frodo and his friendship with Aragorn. His departure from Middle-earth with Elrond the Wise. And then he saw his fall on the borders of Lothlorien, which had taken place just weeks ago, and then his return and defeat of the Dralrog. He now knew that Pallando's will and Bethelarien's song were fighting with each other in his head, giving him both good and bad visions of his past. He was becoming exhausted from the mental battle, and they were approaching the top of the stairs......

[Rasec]

"There is no other way" - thought Rasec. "The enemy is upon us. Battle is unavoidable". The end of the stairs was close. Rasec could even see the light of the chamber coming from the narrow door at the top of the stairs. He closed his eyes and a cold breeze seemed to pass through all his body inside. When he opened his eyes, they gleamed intensively blue, and his face seemed to have some colour again, for it had been pale for a long time inside that tunnel. Rasec looked around and all was clearer. He approached Glorfindel.

- I have an idea, father - he whispered. But the white elf signed for silence.

The company stopped. There were only about 10 degrees missing to the door. Every body looked at each other. Tears of pearl streamed down some of theirs faces. The heroes of Middle-Earth were about to fight for the peace of their lands.

[Frodorocks]

I will not fail you, Leto my love. Lhunsoroniel thought to herself, readying herself to either help save the world and her friends, or die trying.

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmiana drew her sword ina fleud motion that reflected the power withen, she prayed silently to god knows who and prepared herself. Then selfeshly was glad this was only her first life. She caught herself though and stopped now was all that mattered, maybe when she had time she would ask Glorfindel about death.

[Rasec]

The lights went off. All was dark and silent. Radagast the Wizard tried to light the place with his staff. It did not work. Glorfindel tried to glow his white body light. It did not work. Every thing about them seemed to be fading. But Rasec had an idea that saved all. He whispered Charmiana's name and she was beside him. He held her hand and told her to do the same with whoever was beside her. With his other hand, Rasec held his father's, and he held Radagast's. When they were all connected by their hands, Radagast, the first one up on the stairs, began to go up again.

Not long it took for them to arrive at the chamber. It was all dark, too. Darker than the deep halls of Moria. They all passed the narrow door, and when they were inside the chamber, the last one of the queue, Earendil, held Radagast's hand, forming a circle. It did not light the place, but at the least it brought hope and courage for the company.

Suddenly, they heard a noisy sound. It sounded distant, but it became to approach. And slowly the sound became clearer, and the company finally knew what it was, for the torches of the chamber were lit again. All their heads turned to the top of the chamber. An old tall wizard was standing on a stage, rather higher than where the company was. A strong blue light was shining from his blue robes. He was holding a blue staff with a black pearl at the top of it. His face was tough, and his eyes were arrogant. He was the Istar Pallando.

[Emowyn]

Emoduil repleaces his sword and drew his bow in two smooth and quick movments. He fitted it with double arrows and aimed it towards the blue wizard, how ever he did not fire, even though in his eyes he wanted to.

[Frodorocks]

Lhunsoroniel drew Sting and glared at Pallano, her face wrenched in hatred. "So you are the one who's been causing all of this evil!" she accused rather lamely.

[Bethelarien]

Bethelarien, having been next to Charmiana, drew her bow, fitted an arrow, and fired it at the wizard in one swift motion. He easily deflected it, and Glorfindel glared at Bethelarien. She lifted her chin, believing that she had not done anything wrong. She fitted another arrow to the string, but this time held her fire. Next to her, Emoduil was doing the same. She waited, somewhat impatiently, for the Istar or Glorfindel or Radagast or someone to do something.

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmiana noticed Bethlarien and sighed she threw down thwe others bow and grasped her hand "The circle MUST be complete." Then she sighed for she understood the urge to draw weapon and also knew the pointlessness. She stared into the haggard eyes of the wizard with utter defiance he was not made up of evil as had been the other creature she shivered at the thought of the othwer creature. NO he had chosenb his path but was not of the same degrree

[Earendil]

Earendil looked up upon the wizard with great hatred how long she had awaited to kill this man of whom she loathed so much...his eyes were void of emotion his face so cold. and so she couldn't help but she drew her arrow out and held it up and aimed it at him...but she knew that firing at him would not work...so she stood silently aiming her arrow straight at him..."you are the one that caused us pain...the one we loath...the one we hate...the one who tortures without regret...today is your last..."

[Maeglin]

Glorfindel looked around at his companions, all of whom had drawn their weapons. "Stop!" he commanded them, "do not attack him, lay down your weapons, he will use them against you with his magic. This battle is for Radagast and myself alone, the time for the rest of you has not yet come." Then Glorfindel drew his sword Glorsil and it gave off a silver light, while Radagast drew the ancient sword Glamdring. Together they walked forward towards Pallando, while the others followed and formed a circle around the 3 men. "So you come at last," Pallando said to them in a deep voice, "I have been expecting you. I will do to you what Saruman and Sauron the great could not, I will destroy you all and Middle-Earth will be mine!" Suddenly a large band of orcs appeared and attacked the companions, and Pallando fled to another part of his great tower. "We do not have time to play these games!!" shouted Radagast, and he let off a great blast and a flash of blinding light from his staff, and all of the orcs dropped dead, the wizard seemed to rise up and show his true power and glory at this point, and swiftly he and Glorfindel went on after Pallando, while the others stayed and fought off another group of orcs.....

[Bethelarien]

Bethelarien turned to fight this new group of Orcs, though every fiber of her being wanted to be with Glorfindel and Radagast. Pallando was the real enemy here, not these stupid Orcs. Still, if she didn't fight the Orcs, they would kill her friends, and that was not acceptable. She fought fiercely with her companions, though her thoughts went with Glorfindel and the wizard. Bethelarien also watched her companions, knowing her healing skills would be needed by the battle's end.

[Frodorocks]

Lhunsoroniel, seeing that none of her friends were near her to get hurt, swung Sting on a clean circle, killing a small group of orcs. She wished that she could help to destroy Pallandos, but knew that she didn't have the power to destroy him, and in a way, she knew that she was helping to destroy him.

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmianas sword swirled in and out of the ranks of orks. Her dance beautiful and deadly protected Glorfindel in his battle. Would he live even if he did detroy the dark wizard... She drew her thoughts away from that posible outcome. Hmm I wonder where the others that went to harad are doing. Even as she thought this another ork was slaughtered

[Maeglin]

Glorfindel and Radagast pursued Pallando up a long flight of stairs, into the upper floors of the great tower. He lead them into a great chamber at the very top and onto the roof. However, when they crossed the threshold into the chamber leading to the roof, the doors slammed shut behind them, it was then that they realized they had been led into a trap. On one side of them, within the chamber, were 2 monstrous Balrogs that had shut the doors to prevent the escape of the Elf and the Wizard, and on the other side, waiting at the top of a ramp leading to the roof, was Pallando. They were stuck between 2 of the greatest and most evil powers in Middle-Earth. "Well we're in a fix now Mr. Glorfindel and no mistake."

OOC: I just had to make him say that, it was too hard to resist.:D

[Rasec]

Rasec was feeling stronger than ever. He knew he could be helping her father and Radagast, for his power had grown greater since he met Glorfindel and found out he was his father. Since his mother appeared to him, it seemed that his skills had become even keener. The sword and the bow were more easily used by him. It seemed that, even though his mind was with Glorfindel and Radagast, he was fighting faster and was being very brave.

Suddenly Rasec remembered of his companions in Harad. "They may be fighting Alatar by now, as we fight Pallando. I miss them, and I wish he had not got apart. I wish them courage, strength and power."

The orcs about them were not few, for Pallando had a great legion of these nasty creatures. The company would kill them all, Rasec knew that, but many would be hurt afterwards. Rasec's sword gleamed brightly while he swirled it towards the orcs's necks. He suddenly heard a noise. A great noise coming from the entrance Pallando, Glorfindel and Radagast had entered. Rasec guessed that the dark wizard had locked his companions in a chamber, so none else could enter. But Rasec the Dawnstar, son of the White Elf Glorfindel and the Lady Lyrathòr, would do everything to help his father to defeat the enemy of Middle-Earth.

[Bethelarien]

OOC: Come on, guys! Post!

IC: Bethelarien fought valiantly, yet so gracefully it seemed as though she danced on air. Her mind began to wander, finding these orcs so easily slaughtered. And then, she felt a sharp stab of pain, and her side felt on fire. She gasped, shocked momentarily, bending slightly. Then she straightened again, delivering the death blow to her unfortunate enemy.

Her head spun. Bethelarien knew she was losing blood, and dangerously quickly. She stumbled over to Rasec, her face pale, her lips tight. Her vision began to get blurry, and then the world went dark.

[Rasec]

Rasec was shocked. Bethelarien lied in great pain by his side. He stepped towards her and caught her in his arms, taking her a little away from the group that fought the orcs. The elf maiden could hardly breathe, so great was her pain. Rasec did not know what to do, for he thought her wound was beyond his healing power.

But then, Rasec closed his eyes and laid his left hand on his forehead. And his right hand he laid on Bethelarien's. A great gleaming flash of pale white light appeared on Rasec's head and began to run through his left hand, then to his arm, to his chest, passing through his right arm and hand and eventually entering Bethelarien's forehead. After a few seconds, she was not pale anymore, and she had a profound breath, though she did not open her eyes. Rasec had just instinctively lessened her urgent pain, but had not yet healed her wound. Rasec looked at her with relief and then heard a voice in his mind. He closed his eyes.

There she was. The Lady Lyrathòr standing graciously in the middle of nothing. All about her was light. Rasec could not feel himself, his body, but he looked down and saw that he was there.

- Of course you do not feel yourself, son - she said suddenly. - We are inside your mind, and it surely cannot hold your body. We see ourselves and each other because we have the power to see our very souls. - Rasec did not answer, just looked at his mother wondered and smiled. She smiled back and continued. - I shall not greet you, son, nor shall I ask you how you are. For I am always with you and you are always with me. The only thing I came to say is that you have just gave the first step on your evolution. You had not yet perceived it, but now I think you already know. I have conceeded you great powers, for the Lord Celeborn has approved your courage and respect, and so has consented you these powers. I congratulate you for having surprised the Lord, and congratulate the first time you wiselly used your new healing power. Go on, son, the road is long! You can finish to heal your friend completely. May the force be with you.

Saying that, the Lady approached Rasec and kissed him gently. They hugged each other, and she gradually disappeared into nothing. "I shall come back to Lothlórien to see you, mother." - he thought.

Rasec opened his eyes again and looked around him. The company was still fighting the orcs, and Bethelarien was still lying on his arms. "I will heal you, friend, hold on!" - he whispered in her ears.

[Emowyn]

Emoduil had spent his arrows and slain many an orc, but now he battled on with his sword in hand. This battle was not going to be easily won!

[Bethelarien]

From somewhere deep in the back of her mind, Bethelarien sensed Rasec. She knew he was trying to heal her, but there was something else there, something that her befuddled brain couldn't think of. Darkness was all around her, yet she could make out the barest light, far away. Desperately, she reached for it with her mind, hoping to end the hopeless darkness about her. Yet she was powerless, maddeningly powerless. Her fate was in Rasec's hands.

[Isal Celebalda]

Suddenly, a ghostly and beautiful music appeared. It was the song of courage, strength and joy that had been heard so long ago. The party had first heard it when entering the misty pass. The party had rode into fog, into battle, and they had won. The song had come from a bard of the party, now gone, now forgotten. Where this bard had gone, nobody knew. Nobody even noticed his disappearance... and this is what was meant to be. Summoned by the strength of the Valar, he had left along with all memory that the party had of him.

Now, hearing the music, memory of the bard returned. In the midst of the battle, the party remembered. The song gave the same great courage and rage that it had originally, and the battle intensified further.

From nowhere, the forgotten figure of once great friend and great bard appeared. Surrounded in a ghostly white light, the figure of Isal Celebalda shimmered and blinked into existance, bow in hand. As Rasec finished his healing, Bethelarien opened her eyes and saw before her the love that she had lost so long before. Grasping her hand, Isal pulled her up and kissed her passionately. "I have returned to you love, from far away. I had to attend a greater purpose, but now I return to fulfil my destiny."

With his bow glimmering with white, Isal kissed Bethelarien once again and with that, he ran into the fray.

[Bethelarien]

OOC: I almost forgive you, Isal!

IC: Bethelarien, shocked at the return of her love, paused for a moment. Turning to Rasec, she thanked him profusely. "Perhaps I will be less careless next time, my friend," she said wryly, then followed Isal back into the fight, sword drawn.

[ms Greenleaf]

After watching the resurection of Bethlarien Charmiana decided to stick near the elf. She might feel better but Charmiana doubted she was at her best. Charmiana had a scratch on her left cheek that was dripping a bit but other than that she seemed unharmed.

[Frodorocks]

Lhunsoroniel had seen Bethelarien go down, and had covered for her and Rasec while he healed her. Now she was back in the thick of things, thrust here, block there... she began to wonder if the orcs were endless.

[Maeglin]

Glorfindel and Radagast now realized that they were trapped, and prepared to fight and die, for they knew that they had little to no chance of survival. They drew their weapons and began to fight fiercely with the Balrogs, but it seemed that they could do nothing to harm the great demons, and a growl that sounded uncannily like a laugh was heard from them. Glorfindel saw that his sword was useless by itself and took out his mace, and when the Balrog swung at him he blocked the blow with his own sword and sent the mace crashing down into his enemies weapon, shattering it and the mace.

Radagast, meanwhile, was having a great mental battle with his opponent, for this was a Maia, one of his own kind, and could enter his mind and speak with him. He seemed to be struggling against some great unseen will. He swung his sword at the balrog and at the same time used a great spell to knock his enemy backwards; the sword fell from the Balrog's grip. Glorfindel then smashed it with his own sword. Their opponents were now furious and swung their whips at the 2, the whips wrapped around them and they were held in place so that Pallando could do what he wished to them both.

Pallando chanted a spell and a great burning sensation went through the Elf and Wizard. Then, as if by some strange magic or power, everything before their eyes faded, and they saw in front of them the great Olorin the White and Turgon, King of the long fallen city of Gondolin. "We are sending you a message by the power of the Vala," said they, "listen closely, for we will not be able to repeat it after it has been said." Olorin then said to Radagast, "Old friend, now is the time to disobey your mandate and reveal yourself in your full power, cast off your human form and fight as your true self, you will then be able to defeat your enemies. This is commanded of you by Manwe himself, you cannot lose this battle." Turgon then said to Glorfindel, "Glorfindel, chief of the House of the Golden Flower of Gondolin long ago, I tell you this: do not give up this fight, you have a son waiting for you, do not let him down. There is a greater power within you that you have not known about, now is when it will be revealed. Use it wisely and use it well."

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmiana 's sword flashed and spun . Balrogs... damn. "GLorfindel keep its attention." and with that she jumped up and aiming for the creatures eye she stuck her sword deep into its eye. Her sword was stuck---

[Maeglin]

The Balrog let out a terrible scream and Glorfindel was able to free himself from the whip that was holding him, he then took out his bow and aimed dead center for the Balrog's chest, he released and a golden arrow went speeding into the Balrog. It lay dead on the ground before them, it's last flames withering out.

Radagast was still struggling with his enemy, and before Glorfindel or the other's could go and help him, a sort of invisible barrier stopped them, and they saw Pallando laughing with an evil grin on his face. They then saw for the first time the ring upon his finger, it was shining a brilliant blue, and they deemed that the barrier was being produced by the ring. Then more orcs came up the stairs and into the room, keeping Glorfindel and the others distracted from helping Radagast some more. Radagast was slowly being defeated, but suddenly, as the others watched, his human body seemed to fade away!!! Very slowly at first, but then quickly, an angelic form appeared, and the body was gone, and all now knew that they were seeing the Aiwendil the Maiar, the true form of Radagast the Brown. Great and terrible he stood, towering above the rest. Then with a great and heavy blow of his sword he smote down his enemy, the servant of Morgoth.

All now turned towards Pallando, for there was no one else left, and to him Aiwendil said this: "Fool!!! Old friend, do you think that I do not know of your treachery from long ago?! Yourself and your friend Alatar traveled here to the east hundreds of years ago, yet you never returned, unlike the other traitor, Saruman. But I know that you were ensnared by the evil will of Sauron long ago, and helped to find men in these lands willing to fight for him, but you failed, and so kept yourselve's hidden in these distant lands, until now, when you deemed yourself powerful enough to defeat us. But I tell you now, you shall not win!"
"We shall see," answered Pallando, but a great fear could be heard in his voice.
Glorfindel and Aiwendil then walked forward together and drew their swords. A fierce battle then took place: Glorfindel leapt forward and swung his sword at Pallando, but the wizard held his staff out and stopped him in mid-air, sending him crashing against the wall. Aiwendil then held his staff out and swung it around his head towards Pallando, but his opponent blocked it and then made a quick manuever with his sword, but Aiwendil quickly ducked the blow. They then stared into each other's eyes, "this shall be the last time we meet while the world exists, my old friend," Aiwendil told him. Pallando let out a great yell and then he too took on his true form, and everyone watched while a fierce battle raged. It looked as though 2 beacons of light were fighting atop a great tower, and it could be seen from miles around, so great was the light emitted from the 2. They continued fighting on: twisting, turning, jumping, ducking, blocking, nothing like it had ever been seen before. Glorfindel watched in amazement the whole time, but when he finally regained his strength he realized that he had to do something: he once again went running towards the 2 and sent a heavy blow towards Pallando, but again he was sent away by the staff of Pallando, but this time he went rolling across the roof, and it appeared that he had fallen off.
"Father!!!!" Rasec yelled, and he went dashing forward.
Aiwendil now fought more fiercely than ever, and suddenly, with a quick blow, he cut the ring from Pallando's finger, and a great scream was heard. Pallando was now irate, and with his remaining hand he chanted a spell and at the same time swung his sword towards Aiwendil, Aiwendil was sent flying across the room and crashed into the others, unconscious on the floor, for Pallando had always been more powerful than him and still was.
"Now!!!" said Pallando. "I will defeat the only son of the mighty Glorfindel the White!!" He swung his sword towards Rasec, who blocked the blow, but was no match with Pallando with a sword in his hand. He did not last long, for Pallando broke his sword within seconds, and then placed his hand around Rasec's throat, telling him that he would now kill him just as he had just killed his father. But suddenly he let out a great scream, and Rasec saw a silver blade go through him from his back, for Glorfindel had not fallen after all, but had held onto the edge of the roof of the tower, and was waiting for the right time to leap back up. As he put his sword through the Maiar he said this to him, "No one touches my son, and lives! Go now!! Wander through the spirit world as Curunir did, or enter the Void as Sauron and Morgoth did, I care not, but you will never return to Middle-Earth again." Pallando then crumpled to the ground and lay in a heap, and as everyone watched a silvery-grey mist rose from the body, looked longingly towards the West, and then disappeared upon a gust of wind.

OOC: Yayyyy!!! That's pretty much it, if anyone wants to add anything do so now, or very soon at least, I'm going to post the rap-up of the whole thing in the Rivendell thread and then see if we can get it put in the RPG archives!!

[Rasec]

There was a profound silence. All looked tired, but a new strength seemed to have awoken within their hearts and minds. They looked at each other and smiled. One of the enemies of Middle-Earth had been defeated. Bethelarien hugged Isal, Charmiana hugged Rasec, and all others hugged each other with tears on their faces. Tears of emotion, caused by the very feeling of goal reached. After all had been hugged, Aiwendil floated above them and spoke with his clear voice.

- Our task is finished. We have defeated the only remnant evil of Middle-Earth. You have fought with braveness and courage, and I am sure that all the Ainur and Eru Ilúvatar are proud of you. My task on this land has already finished as well. I will now leave to where I came from. To the place that all of you will one day go to. I must thank all of you and congratulate all of you for being the most valiant Elves of the History of Middle-Earth. Namárië!

Saying that, he raised his arms and was involved by a great brown light. And slowly it faded into nothing, and he was gone. Every body knew they would miss Aiwendil, even more as Radagast. But they also knew he would miss them, and they would all be complete this way.

And then, Glorfindel turned to Rasec, who instantly remembered the destiny of his father: to go back to the Undying Lands, from where he was sent back by the Valar. Tears began to stream down both of their faces, and they hugged strongly.

- I do not want you to go, father! - said Rasec among tears - Not long have we known we are father and son, but I had always felt in my heart that you loved me. Now that I have met you, father, I shall not let us part!

- You must be strong, Rasec - replied Glorfindel. - You must understand that my time has come, that I no longer belong to this land. If that is our fate, let it be so! We shall meet in Valinor, son. You still have much to do in Middle-Earth. Much of your power shall still be needed.

- I shall not disappoint you, father. I shall remain here and do every thing I can to help Middle-Earth. But when the pain of being far from you becomes unbearable, I shall sail to the West to be with you. Believe, father. My soul, mind and heart shall never abandon you. Gerich meleth nîn, ada.

Glorfindel then turned his eyes towards the rest of the company and spoke.

- You have proved your quality, companions. And also you have been loyal to me and to each others. I, representing the Valar, concede you great skills and powers to govern Middle-Earth from now on. Nadath nâ i moe cerich!

With that, Glorfindel the White raised his right arm, and from his hand, a white light began to shine, and suddenly there was an explosion of gleam. When the gleam faded, the company was not in the tower of Pallando anymore. They were on the top of a mount, the Sun was rising and they could hear their horses down there. They had new clothes on, wealthy elvish clothes with precious stones, and also new weapons. Glorfindel was still in white, though it was cleaner, and his son Rasec was wearing white and silver prince clothes, and had a silver crown on his golden-haired head. Glorfindel approached his son and spoke.

- I amar prestar aen, han mathon ne nen, han mathon ne chae a han noston ne 'wilith. You are not yet complete, Rasec the Dawnstar. - Having said that, he set his hand up and looked intensively into Rasec's eyes. He instinctively did the same, and they fastened their hands. The splendid white light around Glorfindel passed to Rasec, and both of their faces became younger and even more beautiful. - Now Dawnstar is not your title anymore, it is your second name. For your title has changed. My powers and skills have passed to you. You now are Rasec Dawnstar the White. Namárië, son. Namárië, friends.

- Namárië, ada - answered Rasec. - Ú i vethed, nâ i onnad!

Glorfindel also raised his arms and was involved by a white light, which faded into nothing. He was gone, but much of him had remained. One by one, the members of the company held each others' hands. The Sun, the magnificent star of the dawn, shone in the sky. And the white light of Rasec, among the heroes of the world, shone on the Earth.

[Rasec]

OOC: In order not to mess up my beautiful post, I'll write the translations of Sindarin and Quenya here.

- Ú i vethed... nâ i onnad! This is not the end... it is the beggining.
- Gerich meleth nîn, ada. You have my love, father.
- Nadath nâ i moe cerich. There is still much to do.
- I amar prestar aen, han mathon ne nen, han mathon ne chae a han noston ne 'wilith. The world has changed. I feel it in the water, I feel it in the earth, I smell it in the air.
- Namárië. Goodbye; farewell.

'Rasec.

[Isal Celebalda]

As the sun began to set, the company were still in ther same spot, simply awed. Eventually though, they had no choice but to depart. Their great quest was completed, and the sense of finality was upon them - they knew it was time to go. One by one, sometimes alone or sometimes in pairs, members of the company said their farewells and rode away.

Glorfindel, Rasec and Radagast had done more for Middle-Earth than anyone since the legendary hobbits Frodo and Samwise. The world had been spared from an evil, and was free - for a while at least.

The last two left were Isal and Bethelarien. Isal turned to his greatest love, placed his hand on her cheek and whispered softly to her: "I am sorry I could not be there for you in your time of need, my love... I do not know why I was summoned by the Valar, all I know is that when I returned I felt stronger and more powerful than ever before."

He paused, in thought, before continuing "And yet I did not have any important role in the battle to which I was returned. But I cannot think it that the Valar blessed me for no reason." Worried, his head drooped. Bethelarien lifted it up to face hers, gently, and kissed him softly upon his lips.

Smiling gently, he returned the kiss. "How can it be that a kiss gives me such hope, feeling, power? I know not. But I now know this: I have a purpose! I must great a saga! A song and composistion to be sung through the ages to relate these events for all of time... The acts of this party must never be forgotten, for they have been both valant and true."

Kissing her once again, Isal wrapped his arms around her waist. "I now have my purpose, but what about you? What do you intend to do? My task can be carried out anywhere at anytime... so I beg of you, my love, wherever you go I wish to stay at your side. We parted so long, I cannot bear to leave you again. Let us ride together, travel together, live together and die together!"

As Bethelarien nodded her agreement, she kissed him once more. The sun finally dipped behind the hills, and as the stars appeared the two lovers mounted up and with one last gaze around them, they left.

The final members of the party had departed and so the adventure was truely over. High above, the stars gleamed and glinted. Isal gazed up, and murmured "Rasec, my lord, you spoke the truth."

"Ú i vethed, nâ i onnad..."