A long dead foe reawakens...

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen had been sitting in her favorite chair, in one of the many bars she went to. Just then a blood stained man staggered in. He spoke very quickly, and had trouble with almost every word. It sounded something like this:

D-d-dragon...d-death...H-h-help

Then he died, on the floor. The men around him gasped. There were no dragons. The last one around was Smaug and he was long dead. But they took notice of the poor man although none of them did anything. For in there minds they were brave, but in there heart of hearts, none of them would stand up to a mouse. Lossen then sighed and rushed over to the mans side. Looking up into the faces of the others she said,

Is anyone going to help?

The other men just laughed.

Aw he is probally just halusnating. said a drunk.

And what if he isn't?

They never thought of that. Some beer mugs rolled over and some hit the floor. There was dead sielence threwout the crowds. Maybe the bar wasn't the best place to find help but at least it is a start.

So who amoung you will come with me. Who amoung you is truely brave enough to face a dragon?

[Seraph]

OOC: I'll join if you want

“I think he’s beyond help,” a young silver haired man said sardonically.
His face was almost a sickly pale colour, and he had a scar down his left cheek.
He stared intently at the dead man.
“Probably demented” he thought to himself. “Or taken some sort of hallucinogenic”. But something had killed him.
“It wouldn’t do any harm to investigate” he said thoughtfully.

[EverEve]

Eve Ainalosswen had been sitting silently in the darkest corner of the smoky bar. Her cloak was pulled low over her eyes, and the glowing embers of her pipe were all that could be clearly seen of her. She had been staring, uninterested, at the scene around her for an hour, when the man had come in. With a shock, she had sat up straight. No one in the bar seemed to notice, or maybe they just didnt care, when she stood up and moved closer to the center of things.

The man spoke of death, and of pain and fear. Those were not strangers to the Elf. Lossen alone was the only other she had seen who had the courage of mind and heart to face a Worm. Except, perhaps, that young man who had just spoken...Maybe he too...

Eve cast back her hood, and her elven-fair features were revealed. She strode foward. Her sword, Vulcan, or Gorsew, was unsheathed. The mighty Elven blade of old shone in the pale light of the Pub. The jewel glitterd, and the mithril of the blade and hilt seemed to glow.
Eve walked over to Lossen, and placed her fair-skinned hand on her shoulder. "I, Eve Ainalosswen, shall face this foe. I will stand by your side, and face the very fires of the dragon's breath with you."

[Astaldolosswen]

OOC:might I join?

[Astaldolosswen]

*Astaldolosswen sees the man rush in and immediately sat up. When she saw Lossen Vana go by the mans side, she went over by her and said* "I will go with you as well. I shall help you out on your journey."

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius faced Eve Ainalosswen.
“You don’t honestly believe he saw a Dragon do you?” he scoffed.
“He was probably delirious from his wounds. Nevertheless I’d like to find out what did happen. And you ladies will need a chaperone” he said in a condescending manner.

[WarriorMay]

OOC: :D I love RPGing with people I already know! Mind if I tag along?

IC:

May stood up and took off her hood which revealed her elf ears. She stood tall among the men and walked over to Lossen.

"I may be of service to you." she says bowing her head.

[EverEve]

Eve glared at the man, Stratmarrius. "I do not know what happen, but I intend to find out because I am not entirely certain it IS NOT a dragon. And, I assure you, I am in no need of a chaperone. I have travelled many lands since before you were even born. I believe I can handle myself better than you know." Eve turned to Astaldolosswen and May, "And I doubt that you need protection either. Nevertheless, the more the merrier. When do we depart?"

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen looks up at the croud that has taken notice of the poor man. She nods it may not be a dragon but there was danger from the way the man came in she desided that with this help she would find out what the problem was.

It is a sight for sore eyes to see that there is still some hope left in some of the hearts in middle earth.

She smiles at them, then in puzzlement:

Do any of you have horses they would be most usefull to have in the journey. If not some will be ready for you when we start our journey tommorrow before the sun rises.

She strode off her dog at her heals following.

Make sure you get a good nights rest and lots to eat. This may be the best you will have for awhile!

[WarriorMay]

May takes a look around the bar. There were many faces men staring. She slowly walks out of the bar to her horse, Iarbeleth. She then whispers, "We are leaving in the morning. Our trip to Mirkwood will have to wait until after."

She unties Iarbeleth's reins and walks her around before surrendering to the night.

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius chuckled to himself.
“A Dragon indeed! Elves can be so naïve. But perhaps I can get a reward from the man’s family if I solve his murder”.
He set down his empty glass, and headed out into the night.
“Still” he muttered to himself. “This little trip could be interesting”.

[Lossen Vana]

Overhearing the (Dwarf?) she gives him an evil glare as she heads up the stairs. She reads his mind.

So I see that the bar might not have been the best place to get help from with all these treasure hunters but at least it will be help.

She continued to walk up the stairs, then took the key and undid the lock to her door. When she entered the room was afray, like someone was searching for something. Her dog growled menicngly, as she strode down the stairs at a clip. She had a nervous expression on her face and she was eager to move on. She desided that it wasn't an importance at the moment to ready the rest of her crew, but as they looked into there rooms they would find the same thing.

It is best we leave now. It seams that there are spys, and they know we are comming. Take what you will now and mount your horses will will find a safe spot to rest in the middle of the deep woods.

[EverEve]

Eve shouldered her pack, filled already with her supplies: two full water skins, lembas, her pipe, among other things. She walked out of the bar, and let out a long, sharp whistle. Moments later, a grey stallion came galloping into veiw. He came to a quick stop next to his lady, nickered softly, and thrust his nose into her hands. "Hello, my friend. We have another long road ahead of us, Windrider." She walked around to his side, and mounted. Eve road Elf-fashion, and she did not need bridle nor saddle. She arranged her pack so that it did not crush her bow or her quiver of arrows, for no doubt they would be needed in the near future. Then, she waited for the rest of her companions...

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen Vana was already outside, her horse had all her packs on him and, then she mounted him. It was slightly crouded considering that she was use to riding him without any of the supples on him. She looked at the other elf and wondered why she was out and ready.

I didn't summon for you, and it is still to early. What has happened so that you join me out here at this hour?

Her horse trots about abit in a nervous prance, but Lossen steadys him. Then speaks to him in elfish.

Aretgo, you know we have to wait for the others boy.

He still was very nervous as if he senced something in the woods watching. Something evil. Then her horse quited down and the thing was gone. Lossen then looks over at the first elf.

I do not know your name miss. And if we are to journey together I would like to call you by it (and not Hey You LOL). My name is Lossen if you don't already know that. And the Black greyhound is Mor Ros and my horse is Artego.

[WarriorMay]

May leans against the side of the wall, her hood covering her face. She hears the voice of Lossen calls for Iarbeleth and walks over to Lossen.

"Good morning. Tell me, when are we to leave? I wish to buy some supplies."

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen looks over to May.

We have met before and it is nice to see a famliar face on this journey but as for buying supplies I don't think we will have the opertunity to do that for awhile. I think we must leave with what we have. If that man staggered in from so close then the murders must not be far. So I would like us to stay together at least until we are out of this cities boundarys.

She sighed and wished that she would have been able to had a good nights sleep. It was bad enough that everyone with her might have to skip breakfast, but that was the type of adventure and danger that they wanted.

It is best that you barder for what you want with the people at the bar. But be careful we don't know who may be our friend yet.

Her horse gives an angry snort and begins to prance again ansious (sp) to get on the road and journy. Rasied by elves he was smart and knew of the dangers around the bar and wanted to get Lossen away as quick as possible. Lossen then pats her horse, she to senceing something out in the woods.

[EverEve]

Eve silently stroked the muscalar neck of her strong steed. "I could not sleep. I am always restless the night before I leave on a quest. Some call it a curse and a hindrance, but I call it a blessing. I am not troubled by dreams and there is more time to get ready. 'Sides, sometimes I like to go off on early morning rides," she said with a smile. "My full name is Eve Ainalosswen. But most people call me Eve. Easier than the whole thing."

Eve heard May approaching, and turned to see her coming towards them. "Good morning! Almost ready, are you?"

[Lossen Vana]

Well then it is nice to meet you. I would say this would be a nice night for a ride but not in these woods. I fear there may be some sort of spy working in there this eve.

Pats her horse and wonders if the others are comming.

[WarriorMay]

May quickly grabs her hood off her head as she hears Lossen speak of them meeting before. She then sees the friendly face. She could not get a very good look the first encounter.

"Lle au'? (You again?" May says smiling. "Nae saian luume’ (It has been too long)."

She turns to Eve and bows her head. "‘Good morning. My name is Tárakaliel, or May in the common tounge. I come from the lands of Mirkwood. And you?"

[Lossen Vana]

She smiles and speaks back in elfish.

Yes it has been to long. But I knew it was you. I could sence your vibe. It will be nice to journy with someone I know.

Her horse quiets as he sees May.

It seams my horse remebers you too!

[Astaldolosswen]

*Astaldolosswen called for her white stallion Estel (meaning Hope in Elvish), full with her provisions, as he was coming, she mounted him.*
"Why hello May, it has been very long. I didn't think I would meet you again, and hello Lossen. I haven't seen you in a while either. If we are ready we can go. May, if you need supplies, I will provide you with some. I have more than enough for the two of us."

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen looks around.

Do you think there will be any others or is this our fearless troop?

Her dog sniffs at the outer ridges of the forest and gives a low growl. Lossen looks over.

Well there is no time to wait. So we might as well head on anyway I think my dog found something.

Mor Ros runs off into the woods. Lossen and her mighty stead follow close behind.

[Seraph]

The silver haired man silently rode up to them. He carried two sacks, one with his armour in the other with provisions in.
“Leaving without me?”
His hand was stained with blood.
“I had a run in with some of the locals. It seems this is no ordinary murder, there is great evil at work here. I will go with you if you’ll let me, if not I’ll take another road away from here.”.

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen stopped her horse for a second then she turned around.

Come if you want to. But I hope you know that this quest will be long and dangerous!

She then contiued to follow her dog. Who at the moment was standing ontop of a tiny little halfling. He almost looked like gollum except his skin was more of a greenish tone. Lossen then dismounted from her horse and went over to the creature. Who was truely evil but truely afraid.

[Glory]

*follows the trail of blood when she suddendly is attacked by a big dog who jumpes out of the bushes* "oh my god!" *she quickly moves to avoid the dog to bite her and grabs her sword*

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen called off her dog.

I'm truely sorry. If I'd had know I would have kept Mor Ros with me.

Mor bent his head down low looking shamefully at Lossen.

It is alright Mor you didn't know better.

She said just to him.

[Glory]

*sighs and pats the dog in the head* "it's allright I wasn't hurt..... but I'm afraid you're in a rather dangerous place you should leave...."

[Lossen Vana]

Nods.

Yes I agree with you there are many spies at work in this forest. Let us go back to the others to see if we have anymore who are joining us. I would really like to get out of these parts quick as possible. My goal is to reach a small settlement near weathertop, in two weeks. It seams people have begun to settle there after the Ringwraths left the place. But let us not talk here. Let us do it someplace safer.

She gets back onto her horse and begins to ride back toward the others to tell then of the plans.

[Astaldolosswen]

*sees Lossen coming back and says* "Shall we be going? There is plenty of evil in this village and my steed does not want me to be harmed because of him. Let us get moving quickly so we will be out of harms way."

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen heads back and looks at the others.

What way do you think is the safest and quickest to weathertop?

[EverEve]

Eve sat upon her horse, still and silent. She shifted uneasily, and fiddled with the stone on her sword hilt. The hilt was familiar to her touch and it comforted her in some small way. The black leather grips molded perfectly to her palm; the blade perfectly balanced and sharp. Her horse pranced beneath her, anxious and wary. To give him something to do, she turned him and trotted over to where Stratmarrius stood with his horse. "I bid you good morning," she said softly. "If we are to journey together, I think it best that we do not feel resentment, or any such feeling, towards eachother. I wish to apoligize for my harshness last night. Truce?" she said.

[WarriorMay]

Nobody has seemed to notice May slip away. But she returned closely behind Glory. "I went to pick up my arrows." she told Lossen.

She called Iarbeleth and mounted. "Do you think there are anymore coming?"

[Lossen Vana]

She shakes her head.

No I think not and even if they are we need to get a move on. This forest looms with unseen dangers.

The cold frothey air sweeps around them. The moon was high overhead. There were no stars but heavy black rain clouds. Lossen guided her horse forward.

I usally never travel at night. But after the events that have just happened. I think I will make an exception. We shall take the road to weathertop seeing that there isn't a reason why we shouldn't it also will give us warning to on comers.

She then leads her horse up the long dark twisting path. There were large trees down on the road and it looked as if there had been a huge storm where they were going. Just then the clouds opened up and out poured hail and freezing rain, mixed with lightning bolts that seamed to be setting parts of the forst on fire.

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius faced Eve.
“I can assure you I feel no resentment or ill feeling whatsoever towards you my dear” he said smiling.
Was it Eve’s imagination or was there a dark mocking behind that smile?
“We’d better catch up to the others,” he said, mounting his horse.

[Astaldolosswen]

*Astaldolosswen says a word in elvish to let her horse know that he can go. she rides next to Lossen, May, and Glory. She quickens the pace for she does not like the feel of the forest, even though she loves the trees and forests of her homeland*
"This forest is old......very old. It has many memories, but it is filled with darkness at the moment."

[Lossen Vana]

The rain and lightning come down harder, making a circle of fire around the travelers. Mor Ros growl and, Lossens horse bucks.

[YayGollum]

OOC: Where on Middle Earth is this group anyways?

IC: *with the superly heavy rain going on, not too many people notice the giant eagle hopping up to them, looking ungainly until lightning flashes again* "Hello! How are you doing tonight? In a hurry? It looks like it! Need a place to dry off for the night or are we running away from something? I'm just asking because I have a friend who was curious about you. Truor Tupnm. The king of the Beornings. Has anybody heard of him?"

[Lossen Vana]

OOC: near the Prancing Pony. Just outside of Bree.

Lossen looks up at the bird then at the surrounding flame.

Yes we could use a dry place to stay. But at the momment I prefer wet.

she points to the flames.

And yes I have heard of him.

[YayGollum]

*looks dejected for a second, then mad because he had to fly out here for nothing* "Oh, you prefer wet right now. Got it. Now I have to stay with you until we get there. He's just staying in a little group of trees not too far ahead. Hi, I'm Knockondor! Who are you people? Any reason you're moving in such a hurry?"

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen rolls her eyes then points to the flames once again.

If you really don't mind could you help us? If you do I will tell you the whole story!

The flames begin to close in on them even more. Making it hard to breath over the smoke.

[YayGollum]

*finally figures out their problem* "Oh, you want my help, don't you? Well, I don't want to get my feathers singed!" *thinks for a minute that seems a little too long to the group, then jumps on the fire to spread it around so the rain can put it out faster, hops in a nearby puddle to sooth his talons, and uses his wings to push the smoke away* after things are calm again ---> "Everyone okay now? You humans panic too much!"

[Lossen Vana]

She shakes her head.

And I could say things about your kind, but I won't. Lets not talk here. Take us to your dry spot.

Lossen sees that the rain had killed the fire due to the birds help.

Thank you though.

She said in thought speach.

[YayGollum]

*looks all over the place, trying to figure out where that voice was coming from, then finally looks down at the elf* "Was that you? How did you that? Nevermind. I don't want to know! Can't you just talk to me like a normal little human? The way you do it is just too creepy! Well, follow me!" *hops down the road since he hates having to fly in the rain until he sees the copse of trees he left Truor at* "Here we are! Right in there. I'll be back soon. Truor asked me to scout for anyone else nearby." *flies off while the group heads for the trees*

OOC: I'm so sorry for making you people move! I know that some people hate it when someone else makes your characters do anything.

[Lossen Vana]

Lossens rolls her eyes at the bird. Then follows after him on her horse to the dead trees.

I only did that to get even for not helping. We could have died.

She then dismounted and set up a quiet spot.

We shall rest here for the night and then if I trust him. We shall let the bird be our guide to Weathertop.

[YayGollum]

*a short Beorning with a raven on his shoulder and a white horse beside him walks up* "There you are! Come on in! I already have a fire going up ahead." *while leading the way, he gestures to the raven on his shoulder* "Shadowflaps here saw you guys and he's always curious when he sees groups of people running around for no good reason. I sent Knockondor out to bring you here. What's the situation? We're always ready to help out when there's a hopeless cause or fun to be had!" *sits down at the fire and looks interested*

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius irritably tried to rub the streaks of soot from his face, while he eyed the Beorning suspiciously.
“Can we trust him? Why is he so eager to help?” he whispered to Eve.

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen looks over, and in thought wispers to all the members of her party.

Stay on your gaurd.

She then looks at the Beorning, then bows.

Thank you for welcoming us into your house at this hour.

The wind howls outside and the windows rattle. Then Lossen looks back at the Beorning.

I have some quetions to ask you. They are very important and may aid us on our long journy. But first if you don't mind, can we have a bite to eat?

[YayGollum]

OOC: Woah! sorry I gave you people the impression that we were in a house! As far as I know, it's just a group of trees with a fire in the middle! *hangs head in shame*

IC: *pulls a pack with all kinds of Beorning goodies in it over* "Sure, let's eat! Do you people have food? I have plenty of honey cakes to go around." *grabs some cakes and starts devouring them*

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen looks at the food then her group.

Those look deliosus (sp)!

She grabs one and then another for her dog.

Yes we have food. But after the rush we made leaving Bree last night, I don't think it will be enough to get us to Weathertop.

[YayGollum]

OOC: delicious.

IC: *pulls some mead out to wash the cakes down* "Well, we could always send one of your group with Knockondor or my horse Anthrax here to get more food for you. Bree isn't too far away, and either of these guys could get someone there pretty fast. Whatever you decide. In the meantime, does your group need to rest, or will we be moving on? What is the problem anyway? You seemed like you were in a rush."
*Knockondor makes an undignified landing behind Truor and hops over* "Hi, everyone! I didn't see anyone else close by. Need anything else or can I go hunting?"

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen shakes her head.

I don't think it will be good to go back. There is many dangers there but with help like you said, I trust that we might beable to get something.

She then pets her dog.

If anyone wants they can go back to bree with the eagle, but they would have to take Mor along.

She then thought speaks her group.

For I still don't trust then yet, and at any sign of danger my dog would warn you.

She then looks at the bird and his friend.

Yes we were in a hurry. A man died yesterday preaching dragon. He looked as if he came from far away. Then I found my room a mess as if someone was serching for something. This made me want to leave the town even if some important clues were still there.

[YayGollum]

*chokes on his mead when he hears something about a dragon* "Oh, a dragon you say? Really? Ah, I don't know about this. I've run into a dragon before. Not much fun. It sounds like you're on a quest for information. You want to protect people. Admirable, but very dangerous." *talks to Shadowflaps privately for a while, then the bird flies east* "I just told him to warn my people in the vale of Anduin. You can't be too careful when dragons are involved. Well, we're ready to help you, but I gotta tell you that we're not stupid enough to not be afraid." :D

[Lossen Vana]

And that is a good thing to for a dragon is a mighty advasary.

She shifts in her seat.

I have heard rumors of disaters that nobody could explain in Dale. Some say it is magic, but I think that is where our problem lies. Dragon or not. So that is where we are headed.

[YayGollum]

*puts his food down* "Dale? I have friends in Dale." *glares at the direction Shadowflaps just flew off to* "My spies should have heard of this. Oh, well, I have been out adventuring lately. Now I want to help even more! Just tell me how we can help and we'll be there!"

[Astaldolosswen]

*she goes over by Lossen and says*
"If we need more food, then I can take my stallion to Bree with the eagle. We are very quick together. I can also defend myself if needed. If you want to send Mor with me, you can, otherwise, I'll go by myself with the eagle."
*grabs a honey cake to eat and some mead to drink*
"Thank you for your kind hospitality."

[YayGollum]

"Ah, don't even mention it. I got plenty. So, why are you interested in this little adventure? Selfless acts of pity with you, too?"

[Lossen Vana]

Nods. And speaks in thought to her.

Yes go with the eagle. We need the supplys, and I trust you enough not to have to send my dog with you.

She then looks at the eagle.

Yes there has been many unexplainable deaths there. It is like one minute a persons there and the next they are gone never to be heard from again. I hear it is worse then when Smaug was there because at least they could see him. I hear they are calling this the Black Death.

[Astaldolosswen]

*nods to Lossen*
"I will go after I eat a little something and give my stallion something to eat."
*she gives Estel(her horse) some hay and oats. then mounts him and says*
"I will return in a little while. Eagle? Are you ready to go?"

[YayGollum]

*Knockondor looks up from preening himself* "What? My name's Knockondor, not eagle, little biped! Yes, I'm ready! Let's go!"
*Truor goes back to eating, looking blown away by all of this information* "Worse than Smaug? I've heard stories about Smaug and I can't imagine much worse. We don't have much time to waste, do we? Huh. And it's a mystery as to why people are dying. Doesn't sound good. Maybe Radagast can help."

[Lossen Vana]

Radagast the brown?

She shakes her head.

I don't think he can help.

Then she thinks for a second.

Wait a minute is Black Death usally the name of a pleauge? What if that man just called it a dragon and it is really a deadly pleauge?

Of couse she still couldn't explain the disapeances, but it did explain the dying.

If it is a pleauge then it might not be safe to go back to Bree.

[Astaldolosswen]

*before Lossen had said anything, Astaldolosswen was already gone and speeding off toward Bree for supplies.*
"How far do you think we have to go Knockondor? I hope it isn't very far because I think that something very wrong is going to happen."
*gets lower so there is less wind resistence against her horse so he can go faster*

[Lossen Vana]

Before she could stop it. Astaldolosswen had already ridden off to town. Well the only thing she could figure to do is wait.

[WarriorMay]

May stayed silent for awhile. She had nothing to say. She had been in the Prancing Pony, and she was only here to help out.

"What is this 'deadly pleauge' you speak of?"

[Lossen Vana]

Remeber the man that came in and died?

She shifted in her seat again.

What if the name of the Black Death is swift and trerable like a dragon. And he really wasn't talking about a real dragon? What if he infected the intire town of Bree?

[Seraph]

“I would fight any foe, but how can we fight a plague? I think we should find out what we’re up against before we go much further” Stratmarrius stated.

[Lossen Vana]

I agree with you whole heartedly. Honestly if the dead mans body at this point hasn't been thrown in a potters grave I shall like to inspect it or find somebody who knows bodies. I know this may sound very gross but I was wondering if somebody would go fetch the body?

She almost winkles her nose in disgust. Getting a dead body. Then she turns to the birds.

Do you know anybody who is good at giving autopsys?

[Seraph]

“I’ll retrieve it if you want, I’ve seen plenty of corpses” Stratmarrius said. “In fact I’m responsible for most of them” he said matter of factly.

[Astaldolosswen]

*she arrives at the town of Bree in a matter of minutes and goes to the shop to buy food and equipment. after she buys the food and equipment, she mounts her horse as quickly as possible and races back as quickly as possible*

[WarriorMay]

"I will stay here. I do not feel like fetching someone's body." her heart knew that she wouldn't be able to do it. The man's body should be put to rest.

[Lossen Vana]

She understands her companies destress, with the body and nods. Then she looks at them.

I promise that when we are done inspecting his body we shall give him a proper funeral and burial. It is only right and fair.

She sends Seraph off with great haste.

[EverEve]

Eve had been restless all evening, though silent, and in the background. Suddenly, she stepped forward. "Lossen," she began. "I am very grateful for the hospitality of our host," she siad, as she indicated Truor, "But I have always suffered from a restless spirit. I would go with Stratmarrius if it would not displease you. I have no problems with dead bodies, and my horse could catch up, and keep up." she waited for Lossen's descision.

[Astaldolosswen]

*she had passed up Stratmarrius and was wondering where he was going. she turned around and caught up with him.*
"Where are you going?"
*continues at his pace*

[Lossen Vana]

That is fine with me. The more the merrier.

[Seraph]

“I’m off to find and bring back the body of the dead man from Bree. We need to identify how he died. I only hope a disease didn’t play some part in it, as Lossen
Speculated.” Stratmarrius informed Astaldolosswen

[Astaldolosswen]

"Thank You. I better get back with the supplies now."
*turns around and heads back to the camp. she goes even faster then before so she can get back to her companions and give them their supplies*

[Lossen Vana]

I do hope your right.

Sees Astaldolosswen comming down the road. The rain is letting up and there is barely any lightning.

[WarriorMay]

"There are many other possibilities." she says suddenly. "We should find out where his wounds are and how they were formed, ."

She turns to Lossen, "You don't think there is really a dragon involved? Do you? There hasn't been a dragon in ages."

[YayGollum]

*Knockondor drops whatever supplies he was told to carry, then lands next to Truor* "There you are. Time to go yet? This little lady stopped along the way to talk to one of you other people. Something about a disease? Should I leave?"
*Truor starts securing some of the new supplies to Anthrax* "Calm down, Knockondor. We don't know what's what yet. These people claim to have talked to this man before he died. They must have been somewhere near him and I don't see them getting sick. Either way, I'd like to talk to Radagast. We Beornings have always looked up to that guy. If it is some kind of sickness, he knows a lot of herb lore that could help."

[Glory]

*stares quietly at the others, she has an unbelieveable ability to avoid people to notice she is there*

[Lossen Vana]

She hoped it wasn't a pleague, and in her heart of hearts she knew it wasn't. She had had some disturbing dreams about a dragon and some how feared that that was what they were facing.

Yes go and talk to your friend even if it isn't an illness and it is a dragon. A wizard is a powerful thing to have on your side.

[YayGollum]

*finishes his packing and glares at the rest of the stuff, wondering if these people reallly want all of it* "Woah! Slow down, lady! It's a long way to Radagast's house, and it just happens to be on the way to Dale. You were going there, weren't you? You all seem like the kind of group that would want to help others with no thought for your own safety. Tell me if I'm wrong." *Knockondor snickers at the thought of people actually being selfless* :D

[Lossen Vana]

Yes we are on our way to Dale. But I was hoping to see Elrond and stop in Rivendell. If we go to your friends will will be able to go threw Rivendell. We may be able to get more people for our quest that way.

[YayGollum]

*grits his teeth and tightens a strap on Anthrax until he's kicked* "Argh! Sorry! You say you're going to Rivendell? Ah, if it's alright with you, I'll just wait outside. I've been through that area before and there are plenty of dry places to stay. You guys can go through that..." *trying to hold back negative sounding adjectives* "...elf town without me. Anyways, Radagast lives in northern Mirkwood, so you don't have to worry about going out of your way."

[Astaldolosswen]

*perks up when she hears that they are going to Rivendell*
"That means, that while we are there, I can visit some old friends."

[Seraph]

As he approached Bree Stratmarrius sensed movement behind him. He turned to see Eve riding towards him. He started to slow down, but found there was no need, as she easily caught up with him.
“What is it? Afraid I was deserting you all? Have no fear”.

[Lossen Vana]

Yes we will be going to Rivendell. Master Eagle I sence that you are disturbed about that, why?

She pets her horse, who then nuzzles Lossen with affection.

[YayGollum]

OOC: sorry about that. I should specify. Truor was talking. *hides*

IC: Truor ---> "I'm just not a fan of elves. Ancient history. These three wouldn't mind going with you if you need them to, but I'm fine with waiting outside. Shadowflaps has been there before. He says they have nice bird baths." *the raven on Truor's shoulder bounces with excitement and starts extolling their virtues again* "Oh, be quiet! I don't care how nice their bird baths are! They'd probably just shoot you without even thinking about it if they're hunting."

[Glory]

*grins as she hears Truor's words* "Not a fan of elves, indeed" *laughts she finds pretty funny the idea that the bird is more exited than the owner to go there*

[YayGollum]

*glares at the crazy laughing person* "What? Would you be a fan of the people who killed your mother? Argh! Okay, nevermind. I wouldn't be surprised. You heroic types forgive and forget, right?"

[Glory]

*smiles warmly* "well not all the elves are like that. Some of them only want peace and like to watch the nature and such things. Is not my fault you mother bumped into evil elves.." *then she turns and sits in a corner between two trees*

[YayGollum]

"I would like to say that all elves are evil, but I've run into a few unique ones. Oh, but those elves loved nature alright! According to Radagast, they had been out hunting, they saw my mother while she was in bear form, and thought she'd be a nice rug or some other barbaric trophy! Argh! They must have been very good at slaughtering animals because they just left her there. She was able to crawl back to Radagast's house with what she had gone into Mirkwood to get in the first place. Some herb he needed to keep me alive. This was my birthday. Please excuse me for holding a grudge." *calms down* "Argh! Where are those friends of yours?"

[Glory]

"they come and go as they please." *closes her eyes* "if indeed those elves killed your mother they weren't much of nature lovers..." *yaws* "Otherwise they wouldn't have felt like killing a creature just to make a rug.." *she opens her eyes and looks at Truor eyes* "just for the record, you should watch what you say about elves when you talk to one of them" *closes her eyes and seems to fall allsleep*

[Lossen Vana]

Well the elves at Rivendell aren't like that. These elves you speak of were probally dark elves or drow.

She rolled her eyes.

[WarriorMay]

"Sometimes elves just aren't what people expect them to be." she says looking over to the group. But it was very sad to her ears to here of an elf, just like her, would kill someone.

[Lossen Vana]

She nodded in agreement. Then she turned her head and looked out the "window" of leaves, wondering where the others were.

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius and Eve dismounted their horses and observed the town of Bree. It was normally an amiable place, but there was an almost palpable feeling of danger in the air. It was now a dark and foreboding place.
“Perhaps you should stay here” Stratmarrius advised.
“I told you I can take care of myself” Eve said indignantly, and strode on ahead.
Stratmarrius followed.
It had almost stopped raining, but the streets were laden with murky puddles, some almost boot level.
Stratmarrius fell like there were eyes watching them, from the shadows.
“Let’s just find the body and get out of here” he said, anxiously flexing his sword hand.

[WarriorMay]

She turns to Lossen and says in elvish, "You don't think something happened? It's taking an aweful long time."

[Lossen Vana]

She shrugs her soulders.

I honestly don't know. But I do have this feeling that something is wrong.

[Glory]

*Opens her eyes and says in the common tonge, she does not wish to exclude Truor from the conversation* "danger is near however I think they are safe ...for the moment" *closes her eyes and seems to fall alsleep again*

[Seraph]

“I think they’ll probably be keeping the body in here,” Stratmarrius said.
They were in front of a small building. The lights were off.
“Guess no one’s home” he said.
He forced the door open and they stepped inside.
Several bodies lay within, covered by sheets. Stratmarrius lifted one of the sheets.
“It’s him”.
He wrapped the sheet around the body, and hoisted it onto his shoulders.
They left the building and went into the small alley outside it.
Five masked figures were waiting for them. They each carried swords.
Stratmarrius lowered the body to the floor.
He faced the men with a look of barely concealed animosity.
“Run away. Or I’ll butcher you all” he threatened.

[YayGollum]

*forgets about his arguement with the crazy elves for a minute and looks around for any danger* "What danger? I don't see anything." *looks down at the sleeping elf* "Can't be anything too dangerous! Hey, Knockondor, go check things out, okay?"
*Knockondor grumbles for a couple minutes, then flies off, mostly looking for juicy bats*

[Glory]

*says without opening her eyes* "you don't see it but I feel it, do not worry this treat shall not attack us today"

[Lossen Vana]

Something troubles me in my mind. I think there may be something wrong at the mourge.

She shutters then takes up her wepons.

I fear if we do not all fight then one may die!

She gets on her horse and rides back to Bree.

[YayGollum]

*glares at the sleepy elf again, then watches the other one leave* "Argh! Now what? Your friends need saving? Great!" *looks up for Knockondor, but gives up on him and mounts Anthrax, who protests halfheartedly* "Maybe they've run into the only danger nearby?" *Anthrax bursts out of the woods and starts following the other horse's tracks*

[Glory]

"ohh well I wanted to rest before spilling blood..." *she stands ups and runs behind Lossen's horse while she does this turns at Truor and asks:* "you don't like to fight, do you?"

[Lossen Vana]

Turns in the saddle and sees Glory following behind. She then looks forward and sees the ninjas. They were dressed in yellow silk with a black dragon symbol on there back. There faces looked badly scared as if something had slashed them at one point or another. Lossen dismounted and began to shot them with her arrows. They all died quickly, from the wound.

[YayGollum]

OOC: Ninjas? On Middle Earth? Did I miss something? :confused:

IC: *looks at the elf as if she's crazy* "What did you say? Of course I don't like to fight! The only people I know who do are thought of as crazy and usually die early!"

*after catching up with the other elf and seeing the dead bodies, Knockondor lands on top of them and looks as if he's done a good job* "Look! I found the danger! Too bad they're dead. I'm hungry!" :rolleyes:

[Glory]

*stares at the bodies* "well you took them all off so I think I won't kill today" *turns at Truor* "I never said I liked to fight :rolleyes: ..so don't stare at me as I were evil :p " *then pats Knockondor and says looking at the corpses* "yep you found the danger...you know..you can eat them if you want"

[Lossen Vana]

Shutters at the thought. The looks over to the one carring the body.

Well since we are all here. Why don't we look at the body now. Insted of lugging it all over the place?

[Glory]

*shudders*"oK I'm going to stay behind the bushes until you guys finish with that" *says whiles she looks at the body with an expression of intense repulsion *

[YayGollum]

*Truor throws his hands in the air in frustration with the crazy elf* "Why do people always assume that Beornings love to fight? My father was a bad example, huh? I only assume that elves love to hunt." *he then notices Knockondor on the bodies and the other people examining some corpse* "Argh! Knockondor! Get off of those bodies! We don't know if there's some kind of plague around here!"
*Knockondor hops off, then checks out the other dude, but stalks off when he sees that this one is dead, too* "Me? Eating something that's already dead? What do you people take me for? A common vulture? Ha! I eat those guys for snacks!" :eek:

[Seraph]

“No disease caused those wounds,” Stratmarrius remarked.
He went to examine the dead men. He noticed the dragon motifs on their clothing.
“Another reference to our fabled dragon. Who are they some sort of cultists?”

[???]

wHAT ARE YOU GUYS TALKING ABOUT!:confused:

[Glory]

((OCC: ??? read the first page if you want to understand better our quest.))

IC: *smiles* "I've never said I thought you liked to fight I just asked you if you did...the one assuming things is not me" *blinks at Truor inocently, she looks at Knockondor and roll her eyes* "well if you are not going to eat them we should bury them..."

*she turns at Stratmarrius without looking at the corpse*"if afraid you could be in the right track"

[Seraph]

“Bury them?” Stratmarrius exclaimed incredulously. “I doubt whether they would have show us such courtesy. Let’s just leave them for the scavengers”.

[Glory]

*nods at stratmarrius* "You're right, they probalbly wouldn't have shown that courtesy, but I'm not going to lowering myself to act like they would have acted.." *smiles warmly* "if you don't want to do it I understand, I'll take care of that if you don't mind"

[Seraph]

“Be my guest” Stratmarrius gestured. “But we shouldn’t tarry to long, we’ve already drawn enough attention to ourselves” he said, folding his arms.

[Glory]

*swiftly buried all the bodies*

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen looks over at the piles of dirt and thinks. Connecting some of the clues.

I have been thinking.

She says breaking the silence.

Did you see the Ninjas? They had the marking of a Black Dragon on there back. Either they are who will will be facing in Dale or they are in line with a Black Dragon. Which I'm thinking is most likely.

She shifts in her horses saddle. Thinking that Black Death and Black Dragon sound all to simalar.

Well let us ride out of this place, and away form the danger. To Weathertop!

[WarriorMay]

OOC: Sorry I didn't post, I've been at my grandma's. She's sick. :(

IC: May watches the others quietly.

"Weathertop it is then." she says looking at Lossen. She mounts her horse and looks around. She scans the area looking for anything strange.

[Lossen Vana]

She begins to go forward on her horse at a slow trot. She too was watching the surrounding lands. As she troted a few more paces more Ninja (a new breed of orc) jumped out with there sword flashing. Since there was no notice they would be dead before any of them shot them with an arrow. The only way around the ten was hand to hand combat.

[YayGollum]

*Knockondor had been gliding and hovering to stay with the group, but as soon as the orcs came out of nowhere, he flew off* Truor ---> "Argh! He's so useless sometimes!" *Truor jumps off Anthrax and brings his shield to bear while he works his seldomly used sword out of it's sheath*

[Glory]

*grabs her sword out from its shealth the sword glows red as she slashes a big ugly orc with it* "take this nasty moster!"

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen then slashes two dead with a fatal poison she had put onto her blade. Only 6 to go. And those looked worse then the first 4.

[Glory]

"erm, what an ugly creature!" *grabs her sword and retreats to the bushes, just to run toward them and take two on them down, but during the struggle she got her arm wounded and start to bleeds* "a wound? dear lord not again! " *almost faints but manages to remain consciencious (sp?)*

[YayGollum]

OOC: Conscious?

IC: *after Anthrax has already kicked and trampled another one of the orcs, Truor finally gets his evil sword free and since it wasn't very well made and is more of a club than a sword, he knocks weapons away from the two orcs that gang up on him, then starts turning into a bear which freaks them out for about two seconds that give him time to pull out some of his throwing knives and stab the dudes, he sees the last guy approaching and decides to curl up behind his shield for a minute* "Argh! What's the sense of keeping so many animals around and not having them help out?"

[Lossen Vana]

The ninjas were dead, all of them, and as they died the bodies distegrated into a fine dust. Looking at Glorys wound says

I don't think it is posioned but I think we better wrap that up.

She says a few healing words and the bloods stops just enough for her to get the bandage on. She then makes Glory a tea made from healing erbs.

Here drink this and you shall feel no pain.

[Glory]

*drinks the tea* "today it hasn't been my day, huh?"

[YayGollum]

*Truor peeks out from behind his shield and wonders where the last guy and all the bodies went, but quickly dismisses it as unimportant* "Everyone okay?" *Anthrax whines about having to help Truor and Knockondor flies back down to them, pretending that he never left*

[Glory]

*laughts as she sees knockondoor coming back* "you little thing! (even though his size doesn't justifies the "little") come on! come with Glory! (*hugs him*) don't let those monster scare you again, I'll protec you, okay?" * looks at knockondoor with tenderness and pats him in the head then turns at Truor finishes her Tea and says:* "I'll be fine is not a deep wound"

[YayGollum]

*Knockondor tries his best to assume the humanlike expression of confusion while being hugged* "Woah, lady! I am the strongest of the northern Misty Mountain giant eagles! The biggest and scariest! My father is the lord of the eagles! Come on! Me? Needing protection? Nah. I just uh, didn't want to get my talons scratched by those little guys' swords!"

*Truor takes a look at the lady's arm and sees that it's fine, then scowls at Knockondor* "Stop lying, bird! You're the smallest giant eagle I've ever seen and your parents are just your average scout eagles! Argh! When will you outgrow that habit?"

*while Truor checks out Anthrax's hooves, Knockondor passes for looking sheepish at everybody*

[Glory]

*smiles and says to knockondoor* "sure, sure....you don't need protection" * roll her eyes and nods* "but don't leave us like that again ...I'm no fool, you know" *winks then turns at the others and says* "we better head to weathertop now, we're lossing precious time here"

[Lossen Vana]

Waits to see if Glory feels better before setting off. She is glad that all the members of her company made friends so quickly. It would be necicary on a quest like this.

[EverEve]

OOC: Wow...you guyz post fast! Sorry I disappeared again, I got grounded from the computer :(

IC: Eve grimly wiped blood off of her sword. "Blood smells foul, doesn't it?" she said, to know one in particular. "We really should be going, Weathertop is a ways yet, though it shouldn't take to long on a fleet horse....." her words slowly died away into silence, as her thoughts overcame. She looked anxiously at Glory, knowing the sting of a sword feels anything but good....

[WarriorMay]

May hands Glory a white cloth, "For later, if you need it." She smiles and follows behind Lossen heading for Weathertop.

OOC: Sorry, I just started the new semester and I've had soo much to do!

[Lossen Vana]

It was early in the morning as the company set out. Artego was galloping at a good speed, and all things were going well. Then Lossen thought of the Orc Ninjas.

I think we shouldn't take the main road. It might be dangerous and we do not know who or what we will meet.

She turns and waits for her friends so that she can lead them threw the dark woods.

[Astaldolosswen]

OOC:sorry about not posting. i've had homework, friends over, and like May, i have also started a new semester at my school.

*catches up to them and says*
"You are right Lossen. After seeing those ninja orcs, we might not be safe on the main road. We need to get to Weathertop quickly though. I say we get going and we get going now."

*waits for everybody to continue on behind Lossen*

[Glory]

OOC: Lol sorry it was weekend and I had nothing better to do :rolleyes: ...but don't worry i'm busy too i just had psicology exam today.

IC: *smiles at Eve* "Dont' worry my friend, I'll be fine I'm a fast healer." *takes the white cloth May handed her * "thanks this shall be usefull" *whistles and Isílme comes runing almost from nowhere, glory smiles and mounts on her. Rides behind the others* "here we go!" *looks at lossen with seriousness (as much as she can express being a careless person)* "yes, you're right we should avoid the main road"

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen turns her horse toward a dence patch of trees. Just large enough in space so that they were able to ride threw on horse back. It was a very beautiful day and a good one for making miles.

[Glory]

*smiles as she sees the blue sky* "a perfect day!" *she says entusiasthically (sp?) then looks ahead at the trees surrounding them* "this shall be a long journey"

[Lossen Vana]

As they walk deeper into the dark forest, the trees seam to surround them, and blocks out the sun. It gets to a point where the trees are so thick that they cannot ride on thier horses anymore and need to dismount.

Looks like this is going to be a long walk.

She said getting off her horse.

[Glory]

"yep a long walk" *dismounts* "go away!" *Isílme rans away* "so lets go." *sighs* "a beautiful day with no doubt... come on we have along journey ahead" *says whiles she begins to run swiftly*

[YayGollum]

*Truor, walking next to Anthrax, discussing horse religions, sees Shadowflaps flying back and stretches out his arm for him, Knockondor sees him and is about to eat him until he sees who it is, the raven lands on Truor's arm and glances at the eagle warily, then reports*
Truor ---> "Thank you for telling them. Did you happen to see Radagast while you were there?" *after going back and forth with Shadowflaps for a while, he turns to the group* "Well, the Beornings know about the orcs and what might be a plague or a dragon. Shadowflaps didn't run into Radagast. oh well. Hey, why are we even going to this Weathertop place? I've never heard of it. What's there that's useful?"

[Lossen Vana]

We are going to weathertop to replenish our supplies. Now that the humans have begun to settle there again it should be a save place to also get a rest.

She hikes threw the now merky part of the woods. It seamed that there was a dark cloud as thick as pea soup in the air, and you couldn't even see your own nose.

[YayGollum]

*Truor looks desperately for his nose, but gives up after two seconds* "Oh, I hadn't noticed that anyone had populated another town nearby. Huh. Too bad I didn't know, or I would have seen how nice their bars are. We have time to stop for a drink, right? I don't see why you're rushed. Dale is too far away to worry about what's happening there now."

[Glory]

"maybe but there is no harm in travelling fast" *sighs*

[Lossen Vana]

She shakes her head.

There is a rush if people are dieing and anyway how in the world do you expect to see what you are drinking, let alone be able to pour anything in this fog?

The fog continues to swell around the group, making it hard to breath.

[YayGollum]

"You complain about the fog. There won't be any inside a bar. Why don't we get on the road now? Anthrax is complaining about the not very firm walk here, and we'll see the lights sooner from there anyways."

[Lossen Vana]

With a heavy sigh she knows that he is right. She turns around and says loudly to her comapany to do the same thing.

[Glory]

*turns and tries to look around she doesn't know if she is with the other or not she can't hear their voices* "er...something is not right in here" *she turns around and calls for the others* "Lossen!!!!! Truor!!!!!!!! May!!!!!!! eve!!!!!!!!" *shudders seems that she is alone keeps shouting until she gives up* "I guess I'm lost...."

[Astaldolosswen]

*since her eyes have adjusted to the fog, she looks to see if everyone is with them. she notices that Glory is missing.*
"Hey, has anyone seen Glory?"

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen shakes her head and yells no to the rest of them. Then in a low whisper sends her dog out to go look for her. Mor smiled at the task and set off, sniffing high and low. He then barks as he walks letting Glory know where he is in the fog.

[WarriorMay]

OOC: Sorry if I don't post a lot. There are just some family and friend issues...hope you understand.

IC: May stays close to group. She looks around the in the fog. Iarabeleth, her horse, suddenly gets scared because of the fog. "Whoa...calm down...Iarabeleth." Iarabeleth backs up right into a tree.

[Lossen Vana]

The tree sudenly grabs the horse, not to harm it but just from shock. It seamed that the forest was alieve and angry from the trespassing.

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius bumped into one of the Elves.
“Damn it! I can’t see a thing in this accursed fog,” he said irritably. “Does anyone know the way out?”
He then sees one of the trees move. He unsheathes his sword.
“What the devil is that?” he said, in disbelief.

[YayGollum]

*Knockondor instinctively flies up to as high of a branch as he can, but lands roughly back on the ground when the thing shakes him off for no good reason* "What was that? Trees moving when they shouldn't? I suggest a retreat!" *tries to make himself look small when he notices that the trees are a little dense and he wouldn't want to be knocked down again*

*Truor holds Anthrax still while he tries to find a quick way out* "Anybody know what kind of trees these are? Not very friendly, if that makes sense."

[Glory]

*Mor finds Glory laying peacefully under a tree* "ohh good dog! I was wondering if they were going to come back for me!" *pats him on the head and scratches him then looking at the tree she says* "Do not worry he won't harm you" *the branches seems to move away from the dog, mor growls nervously* "wich is the fastest road to weathertop in these woods?" *a branchs moves and points to a direcction, Glory nods. While Mor seems to be confused* "Don't worry we'll cach up with the others at weathertop, they'll meet us there"

[Lossen Vana]

Mor was happy that he had found Glory. And licked her face. But the trees on the other hand were not happy to be trespassed apon and pointed Glory into a deeper fog. Hoping she would be lost forever.

The rest of the group on the other hand, was getting attcked by very unhappy trees or ents. It seamed that the forset by the Shire had increased in size over the passing years, and had developed into full grown ents with a hatred for humans and anything else that passed threw there woods. But who would blame them after all the other creature would distroy anything in there path.

The ent that had grabed the horse then sprung to life. His eyes opened although he couldn't see anything threw the fog, and got more angry.

Fog I hate it.

He muttered, then he looked down at the frighten horse and almost in confusion dropped him. Then he said a few words and the fog over the travelers lifted, but only enough so that the ent could see them.

Humaniods? Gagh! There gose the whole forest! And I honestly thought that we were safe!

He muttered again. Looking down apon all of them. He then put is large arms onto his waist.

Why have you trespassed onto my lands?

He said in a booming voice. One so loud that Artego slunk back in utter fear.

OOC: Um just wanted to mention Glory that Mor is under my control. And for everybody else the ents are too. Of course if you want to make the "trees" throw you around no problem. ;)

[YayGollum]

*as soon as the Ent starts talking and acting civil, Truor recognizes it as an Ent and straightens up* "Excuse us, sir. We did not know that we were trespassing in anyone's land. Believe me, if I had known, I would have suggested that we leave sooner! If you call off your friends here, we'd be more than happy to leave peacefully."

*Shadowflaps congratulates Truor on acting like a king and taking charge, mostly because he had been trying to train him in courtly manners, Knockondor backs up into Anthrax and starts muttering about how awkward it is when you try to land on a sentient thing*

[Lossen Vana]

The ent looks down at the one speaking. Then picks him up.

You may not have know what you were doing. But now that you do, I have to punish you eather way.

He points to the trampled grass. And distroyed seedling of the trees.

You have distroyed life by coming into my forest. How would you like it if I trampled you?

Then one by one a swam of Ents came and picked them all up and droped them into a stone cage. The only one that wasn't captured was Glory because she was too far away and the ents were too slow.

Mor growled in the direction of the trouble. It was all up to Glory now to save them.

[YayGollum]

OOC: I'm just wondering. How did we end up in the Old Forest when we were going to Weathertop from Bree? Or is this some other place that I don't know about? oh well. I guess I should just wait for this Glory person since the cage wasn't really described in detail and I don't even know if Shadowflaps could get out.

[Lossen Vana]

OOC: I said it is an extention of the forest outside the shire. Like the one that Tom Babideil (sp) takes care of. Actuuly this is his forest. And the cage has high stone walls that allow little light in and little light out. It has bars at the top, also made of stone, and weaved with rose bushes with extra sharp thorns.

[YayGollum]

OOC: Got it. Thank you so much. Doobedoobedoo...I always thought that the Old Forest where Tom Bombadil lived was to the west of Bree and that some marshes and Weathertop were to the east of it. Maybe I'm just crazy. *runs away and waits for the Glory person*

[Astaldolosswen]

*she doesn't like being in the stone cage. it feels like being in a cave and elves aren't very fond of caves.*

Glory, please hurry and find us. We need your help. Please follow Mor to us since he usually knows when his master is in trouble.

*tries to find Lossen in the dark, stone cage*

"Lossen, do you think you might be able send a message to Glory through telekineisis?"

[Lossen Vana]

I will try but it may be too far. And I don't really know where we are.

She trys really hard and only gets a few muffled words threw.

Glo.....Help....Cage....Mor....Hurry!

The she stoped feeling drained from the expeience. The ents looked down apon there captives. Some knew what they were and other only heard legends. But all in all they really didn't like what they caught. They began to disguss what to do with the grass killers, and desided that they would drown them (seeing that the pit they were in had no escape for any sort of water. So slowly the began to empty there roots into the cage and slowly filling it up with water.

[Astaldolosswen]

*feels the water coming in*
"Oh no, water is coming in through the hole at the top of the cage." *she says sternly* "We need to get out of here and we need to get out of here now."
*she pulls out her sword Megil 'en Eledhwen and its glowing brightly. she knows that she can use it to their advantage and she starts to focus on her sword and it gets brighter. it finally gets so bright that she can hardly stand the light, but she continues to focus on her sword. it finally forms a defensive barrier around her and the others in there so they don't drown from the water.*

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen is nearly blinded by the light but was glad when she stopped feeling the water. It then began to rise over the protective sheild and over flo at the top, after almost an hour of the water doing that. The ents stopped pouring it in. They went over and looked in and saw that there captives were still living. Some of the ents gasped and other got angry. One or two got so angry that he jumped up and down apon the earth making an earthquake of a sizable perpotion knocking rocks of all sizes into the cage. The top smashed off and came dropping onto them like a ton of bricks. Lossen looked up in fear still trying to contact glory.

[WarriorMay]

May and Iarabeleth both stay as close to everyone as possible. Shaking with fear there isn't much May can do.

Glory, where could you be?

[Astaldolosswen]

*she concentrates even more on the power of her sword, even though it is starting to hurt. she does not want the others to be harmed. she hopes that the ents will stop with the water and the rocks for her concentration is really starting to hurt her. she would ask the others to help her concentrate on her sword, but then she would lose her concentration and the barrier would break. she puts a message into her mind for Lossen.*

Lossen, can you tell the others to try their best to concentrate on my sword. It will make it a whole lot easier on me and make the barrier even stronger. Tell, them please, before I give out.

*just as she is about to give out, she feels a new strength within herself. she uses the new strength to concentrate on her sword*

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen who is very afriad turns to the others.

Stay strong and concentrate together! That is the only way we will live.

Lossen looks around it seamed that alot of the water had splashed out leaving just a small amount of room for a bird to get threw the top and maybe go for help.

[Glory]

*glory wanders nearby following Mor who is leading her to the others* "May I find them soon I have a bad feeling.."

[Astaldolosswen]

*she is relieved as Lossen tells the others to concentrate on her sword together. she then has enough strength to keep the barrier up and strong. she then hopes that the ents will understand that they are no harm to them and will let them go*

[WarriorMay]

Iarabeleth starts to panic and buck. But May still concentrates hard.

Glory, where are you? We need you!

[Astaldolosswen]

*she puts all of her strength into one blow so the magic of her sword will show the ents that they are no harm to them. the light from her sword blasts through the top as hard as it can and she still manages to keep the barrier up. she has enough concentration to say to the ents in elvish*

"Elmë nauva lá car any úmëa ya elyë. Elmë tul arwa sérë, elmë áva mer ya mar sinomë." (We will not do any evil to you. We come in peace, we don't wish to dwell here.)

*she hopes that they will understand*

[Lossen Vana]

The ents hearing the elfish look down into the cage, or rubble. Some get a sad gloomy look on there faces then others go and take them out.

We did not know you were elves. I guess that your magic was hidden by ours. We would like to make it up to you.

It was well known that ents and trees alike respected elves because elves were the ones who taught tham how to speak and be who they are.

[Astaldolosswen]

*stops concentrating on her sword and says*
"Thank you for recognizing us for what we are. We are sorry if we made you think otherwise. I am sure that I speak for all of us when I say, you are truely amazing creatures and we have to earn your trust and respect. We forgive you for what you have done, as you did let us go when you recognized us as elves."
*smiles since they are now safe with the ents*

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius kept quite, and tried not to draw attention to himself, hoping the Ents wouldn’t notice he wasn’t an Elf.
Inwardly he cursed the Ents, and imagined what he’d like to do to them.

[YayGollum]

*as soon as they're all free, Knockondor flies straight to the nearest real tree and tries his best to look stern at the Ents, Truor sends Shadowflaps off to find that Glory lady, then turns to the nearest Ent, making sure that he's standing on a fallen piece of cage*

"All right, Ent. I've run into others of your kind and they were never like this! I've walked through what I thought was the only place on Middle Earth where your kind existed and none of them ever showed up to punish me for stepping on their forest floor! They did, however, come to save one of my companion's lives.

I always thought that you were a lot like us Beornings. We keep to ourselves and help out if we think it's necessarry. Neither of us like orcs. Things like that. Yes, I'm a Beorning. I'm no elf, and no offense to the ones in my company, but I'm proud of it! What's this about you letting us go because you thought we were all elves? You try to kill me just because I'm not an elf? Argh! Prejudice, and I tried to be civil! Shadowflaps knows I tried! oh well. Now that you've seen these elves, you'll just let us go? Put me back in that cage! If you hate me for something I can't help, you might as well!"

*Anthrax worries for his friend's saftey after his outburst, while Knockondor gets ready to save his life*

[Lossen Vana]

The ent looks down apon the speaker, then looks at the elves and thinks to himself. This is why I hate other races. With a sigh he looks down apon the elves once again.

I would kill him, but I guess he is your friend and I have already do enough to you.

He glares at the non-elves.

Yes we do keep to ourselves, and we would have had you not stumbled onto OUR land!

[YayGollum]

superly sarcastically and getting out of control (Shadowflaps would have stopped him) ---> "Oh, thank you, sir! That makes everything okay! You won't answer my questions. You won't pay attention to what I have to say, even though it's the same thing this elf says. Makes all kinds of sense! Oh, I deeply respect the Ents of the north now! Argh!" :rolleyes:

[EverEve]

Eve had been standing silently in the background, agreeing with all that Truor had said. Stepping forward, she cleared her throat. "Regardless of what has happened, I won't lay blame on either party, for it can be argued over all day, and a conclusion never made. May I suggest that we move on, and that we let the subject die? I beg you too let us leave in peace, and we shall not trouble you again." Eve retreated to her former place in the back of the group. Under her, Windrider shifted from side to side, anxious and tense. Nothing the Elf could do would calm him, for he was nervous to be so small around creatures so large as the ents...

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius grabbed Truor by the collar, and looked him in the eyes.
“Are you trying to get yourself killed, hmm? Well there’ll be plenty of opportunities for that soon enough. You shouldn’t concern yourself with what others think of you”

[Astaldolosswen]

"If I would have known that you weren't going to kill us because we were all elves, I might have thought that over, but I didn't want the others to die because I didn't try to do anything. Please, respect the others as you would us. They are not as unrespectful as you might think."

[WarriorMay]

"They didn't know." May said. "I didn't know of Ents in these parts either."

May slightly bowed to the Ents as a sign of respect.

[YayGollum]

OOC: Truor has a collar? I didn't know that. oh well. :rolleyes:

IC: to the Stratmarrius dude ---> "I shouldn't care what others think of me? Yes, it's painfully obvious that you believe that, but I, on the other hand, have to represent my race to the best of my abilities. I didn't ask to be king, okay? Mind letting me go now, friend?"

[Seraph]

OOC: Maybe it was his…chest hair?
IC:
Stratmarrius patted him on the shoulders, though it clearly wasn’t meant with affection.
“Not at all “friend”. Come on are we leaving this forest or what?”

[YayGollum]

"I'm kind of waiting for this Ent here to give me permission before I set foot on his forest again. Maybe he thinks he'll carry us all out of here while he steps on his forest for us? Or maybe I should just ask Knockondor to take us all out with many trips? I don't know. I'm not in charge here. Calm down."

[Lossen Vana]

The Ent looked down and got angry at the difiant (sp) one. He was about to crush him when he remebered his promise.

I will let you leave my forest in peace. And I will tell you the quickest way to Rivendell. Considering you are elevs I assumed you are going back home. But it will be hard. There are trolls on the short cut but there is also a pile of untouched gold in the waters.

[YayGollum]

*when Knockondor sees that the Ent is about to crush his friend, he flies down in front of him, but when the Ent decides against it, he feels stupid when he sees that he landed on a dead branch, and hoping that the Ent won't want to kill him for dishonoring the remnents of an ancestor or something, he steps forward a little so the branch can't be seen anymore* "Trolls on the way to gold? I see nothing wrong with that! Rivendell isn't far from my eyrie. What do you say, Mister Ent? Are you going to tell us where we'll find this treasure?" to Truor ---> "So helping these people won't be a total loss!"

[Glory]

*glory finally reaches the others (apparently with Shadowflaps help), she had been standing quiet hearing at them a while, now. She just shakes her head without understanding why ents would be so mean specially with creatures like the Beornings who are quite much more natural creatures than monsters like the orcs*

[Lossen Vana]

The ents couldn't understand why a beoring would be so mean to them. So he scrached his head.

Along time ago back when this was no more then a valley. Some people came threw here. There was a habbit, some fat little guys and a wizard. They defeated 3 trolls and left a pile of gold in the waters protected by an enchantment. Now many years had gone by since then and trolls have moved back there. I suggest that if you are going to go that way you go only by nig-er I meant day. That way you can safly be in and out and get the gold.

Lossen looked at the others:

So shall we be heading on?

[YayGollum]

OOC: Ack! Truor isn't mean! He tried to be nice! The Ent was evil! He was offended when the dude tried to kill him! I'm sooo sorry! Maybe other characters don't mind so much that they're about to die! :rolleyes:

IC: *Shadowflaps lands back on Truor's shoulder and he steps off the pieces of the cage, watching the Ents warily* "We're ready to go anytime. Knockondor will be happy to get his treasure. Sounds like we'll get to this Weathertop place first, if I follow this Ent correctly, though. I could use a good night's rest away from his forbidden forest! You can bet that I won't be trespassing in here again!"

[WarriorMay]

May mounted Iarabeleth, "I'm ready to go, whenever you wish."

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen mounts her horse and as quickly as she went into the forest she came out, leading them in a large valley.

[EverEve]

The trees and their shade suddenly were gone, and the sun could shine with it's full brilliancy upon the small company once again. Eve blinked and raised her hand to shade her eyes. At long last there was a clear path ahead of them, nothing to hinder them that her far-seeing eyes could detect, and she urged Lossen to greaten the speed further.

[YayGollum]

*noticing the increased speed, Truor, who's been walking next to his horse Anthrax, who's holding most of the group's supplies now, calls Knockondor down to ride on* Knockondor ---> "Why do you want to ride on me? I hate it when people ride on me! I'll carry you around like a sheep I'm about to eat, if you want." *after Truor adjusts his armour so the crazy eagle's talons won't dig into his shoulders too much, the two cruise above the others, watching out for this Weathertop place*

[Astaldolosswen]

OOC:I am soo sorry for not posting in a while. I had friends overnight and I couldn't get online. Just today I found out that my neighbor's had to kill one of their horses because she had an intestenly(sp?) infection. I am soo sad because she was only 7 years old and thats kinda young for a horse. She was soo playful and then she had to go away for good. *is very sad. a teeny tiny tear rolls down cheek*

IC:*She goes the pace she has to go to keep up with the others, but wonders why the Ents only spared them because there were elves present. She knows that Ents aren't usually like that. So she starts to wonder what is going on and if there really are trolls in the area again. tells Lossen*
"We have lost much time. We need to make up for the time we have lost."

[WarriorMay]

Iarabeleth is restless and wants to move around. "I agree, we must move faster. The Ents kept us long."

[Lossen Vana]

She too nods in agreement.

Yes we must make haste but we must also plan our travel time out perfectly. We will be going threw troll country in a matter of days and if we don't go threw in first light it may be the end of us.

She and Artego incressed the pace, moving quickly over the rough hills and valleys.

[Astaldolosswen]

*her and her stallion pick up the pace as well*
"If we do run into some trolls, we can just kill them. I have my sword and my bow and arrows. If we just keep going through there with no stop during the light, then we will be just fine. But we must make sure that we do not linger long, otherwise, it will be the end of us."
*they pick up a bit more speed as her stallion is used to it*

[Lossen Vana]

Artego and Lossen speed up, they then stop suddenly as they were nearing the borders of troll country and it was getting late. Lossen then desided it would be a good time to make camp before the dangerous ride tommorrow.

[Astaldolosswen]

*she sees Lossen slowing down and slows down herself. her stallion is glad to slow down as he was getting tired even though that was quite a short distance they went. he was used to worse, and she wondered why he was so tired.*
"I'm glad we're stopping. For some reason, my stallion is very tired. I'm going to check him out when we stop and give him some water. This is very unusual for him to be tired after going such a short distance. He has gone faster for a much longer time than this."
*worries for her horse as she is very close to him*

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen gets off her horse and lets him lose to wander. She then gose over to the other and pets the horse on the nose.

After all the stress we have been threw I can understand why your horse would be tired. I'm sure he will be better by tommorrows ride.

[Glory]

*glory nods in agreement, as she dismounts and tries to set a fire*

[Astaldolosswen]

*she dismounts Vanya Ninquë and leads him to some water and tells him to drink up and do not do anything that would make him more tired. after he is done drinking he goes and grazes and then decides that just for tonight, he would lay down on the grass instead of standing.*
"He should be fine by morning. At least I hope he is."
He better be alright. Otherwise, we might not make it through the troll's territory. He has been through a lot since I first got him. He is getting older and still has not made any offspring for himself. I hope he gets to do that before this is all over.

[Lossen Vana]

I hope so too because he sure is a fine horse and his ofsping would be beautiful.

[Astaldolosswen]

*looks over at Lossen*
"I know. I've been trying to get him to, but he doesn't want to I guess until he knows that I will be done traveling around and helping others, but I would rather see him happy and see him have some offspring. I guess he hasn't found the right mare."
*looks over at Vanya Ninquë and he looks to beautiful in the light. with his white fur shining almost like a silver to the eye. his mane blowing in the wind as he rests.*
I sure hope he finds the right mare and soon. I want him to have offspring so I might have the privilage of raising up a new horse as I know that he will not live as long as me.

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius half collapsed onto the ground from exhaustion. He was even paler than usual, from lack of sleep. He surveyed the area around the camp.
“I think someone should keep watch, especially after the strange things that have occurred. I’ll do it myself if no one else will”.

[WarriorMay]

OOC: Now, we don't want the same problem with Artego and Glory's horse...

IC: May lets Iarabeleth go to wonder around and rest. May searches in her pack, and finds a carrot and feeds it to Iarabeleth. Iarabeleth wonders closer to the other horses.

"I will do it Stratmarrius, you need rest."

[Astaldolosswen]

*looks over at Stratmarrius and sees that he is exhasted.*
"No that is quite alright. I will keep the first watch. I will be trying to watch my horse anyways. I am truely worried about him. He has never been this tired before in his life. I will most likely be awake all night making sure that my horse is alright."

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius lay himself on the ground, his back turned from the others. He wrapped his cloak about him. He was soon asleep. He slept soundly, his usually perpetually stern face peaceful looking.

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen then starts up a fire and begins to make food. Of couse she uses already choped wood and desides not to disturb the trees anymore. It was pitch black and no stars shined over head. Lossen sighed. Then her dog began to growl. He only did that in danger or fear but whatever it was Mor didn't like it. Lossen got up and looked around. Her keen eyes seeing before her a pack of trolls heading this way. It seamed that troll contry had grown since the last time they were here. Lossen then alerted the others and hoped that even in there weiryness they would be able to escape the trolls.

[EverEve]

"Aye, perfect timing! I suppose it would be too much for us too have one quiet moment!" the Elf muttered under her breath, clearly annoyed. She jogged over to where Seraph lay sleeping, and jarred him awake. "Up! Time to go again," she called, as she leapt upon her steed. Windrider had yet too tire, for was he not a the former leader of a wild herd that had once lived near the borders of Rohan? The stallion reared in the sudden excitement, but stayed silent, and awaited her command. "Make haste," she cried softly to her companions, not wanting to arouse the suspision of the trolls. "We must leave quickly..."

[Astaldolosswen]

*she sees the trolls coming and starts to panic as her horse is very tired still. she then whispers to the others*
"My horse will not make it. I will try to hold them off while you get away. I can take them on my own."
*she doesn't wait for them to say anything, but grabs her bow and her arrows and grabs one, and fits it to her bow. she takes aim at the lead troll and then says*
"Get out of here now! I will hold them off and meet you at Weathertop. I have been through worse then a few trolls before."
*she grins a little and then after checking her aim, lets the arrow go. she aimed for his throat as usually they don't have a lot of armor by their throat.*

[WarriorMay]

"I am not leaving you here alone." May said, "There's nothing you can do to make me leave."

She grabbed her bow and an arrow, aimed it and fired. She successfully shot one in the head. Iarabeleth came to May's aid, allowing a fast escape when needed.

[Glory]

*shakes her head* "I won't leave you *looks at the others*, May, lossen and Stratmarrius should go away and stay thogether, Eve and I will reach you guys later" *looks at the seriously*

[Astaldolosswen]

*looks at May after she is sure she that she killed the lead troll.*
"Very well. I am only staying because my horse will not be able to keep up. I am glad that you will help me in defeating these trolls."
*she takes another arrow and she takes aim, and shoots it into the throat of another troll.*
"Three down, still more to go."

OOC:How many trolls are there?

[Glory]

*shakes her head then nods at the others* "seems like we'll stick together" *pulls out her bow and shoots a couple of arrows at the trolls* "erm disgusting creatures"

OCC: I have no idea...guessing mmm maybe two for each one of us to fight...

[Astaldolosswen]

*draws another arrow, takes aim and shoots another troll in the throat killing him instantly*
"Very well."

[WarriorMay]

May draws out another arrow and fires. It ends up in the troll's eye and it runs in pain. She shoots another one, killing the troll. "Ah ha!" she said.

[Astaldolosswen]

*she draws another arrow, takes aim and kills another troll*
"We will stay strong, and defeat our enemy before they even know that we are here."
*takes another arrow and aims and kills another troll*

[Lossen Vana]

In the dark Lossen could make out at least a dozen or so trolls, they had smelled the food. Lossen then took out her bow and arrows.

We would never abandon one of our own.

She began to shoot, but her arrows only lightly dinged there heavy skin.

[Astaldolosswen]

*she pulls out another arrow and aims and kills another troll.*
They must know about us by now. We have been killing them off one by one, we have killed about 10 trolls all ready. I hope they will not attack us.
"We have killed about ten trolls, and it looks like that there are still about a dozen or so left. I hope we can defeat them before they get here."
*she pulls another arrow and aims, and kills the next troll in line*
They don't stand a chance against elves, a man, and a beorning. Unfortunately, the eagle most likely won't attack for fear of being hurt.

[Lossen Vana]

The Trolls charge in rage, the sun was begining to creap up in the sky and suddenly one by one they turn into stone.

I think we should move on now.

[WarriorMay]

May mounted Iarabeleth but continued to shoot arrows. She drew out two and fired them at one troll. "That is a good idea."

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius leaned against one of the troll statues. He rubbed his bleary eyes.
“How long will it be until we reach our destination?”

[Lossen Vana]

I should think in a week or so we should reach Weathertop unless of course those Ents put us off corse.

She mounted her horse and began to ride threw the lands the trolls had come threw.

[YayGollum]

OOC: Argh! Yes, I'm sorry that I don't have a computer at home!

IC: *Anthrax is seen not too far away, looking up for Knockondor and Truor, Shadowflaps lands on his back and the two walk back over to the group, looking abandoned until the crazy eagle drops Truor kind of unexpectedly behind them and lands heavily, trying to look innocent*

"Hey, everybody! I kind of lost you back there! It looked like you had settled down for the night. I saw a fire and everything. Truor was ranting about smelling some good food, but I was catching some bats for dinner. By the time we decided to come down, we saw you were in some kind of fight. I thought it would be best to let you handle it yourselves. Infighting is never good when we're out to save the world, right?"

*after securing some of Anthrax's load on Knockondor, Truor mounts his horse and turns to the rest of the group* "sorry about that. I saw the trolls, but Knockondor here kept saying you were just fighting with some friends of yours and that we should keep out of it. oh well. I'll be riding Anthrax from now on."

[Lossen Vana]

Lossen shakes her head at the bird and rider. Then she continued on. It was high day when they reached some cave that belonged to trolls. Lossen desided to go around and look. First she shot a dozen arrows in the entrance to make sure after nothing came out she went in. The cave was empty and around her was gold and Mirthril vests. She took one and put it on. Then she looked around at the gold, calling the rest in.

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius’s eyes lit up with avarice.
“There must be a small fortune here” he exclaimed. “And it’s all ours”.

[EverEve]

Eve Ainalosswen's eyes widen as she saw the riches. "Nice! Beautiful stuff....." Eve paused with uncertainty. "I wonder who it belonged to." She knelt beside a Mithril chain-vest that had a row of small throwing knives upon its sash. "Not to complain, but do you think its right? I've no objections really, but....Oh,well. Never mind me. Just my over active Elf concious again." She said with a smile.

[WarriorMay]

May looked around, she picked up one of the Mithril vests and called in Iarabeleth. Iarabeleth came in and May took the vest and put it in her pack. "I do not need to wear it now, I'll save it for later."

She patted Iarabeleth and continued to look around.

[Astaldolosswen]

"I do not need a mithril vest. I already have one on, and I do not need any gold. I will let you take your plunder first, then if there is any gold or anything else left, I will take it to Celeb Tauronrim to see if the King and Queen can find a use for them."

[Lossen Vana]

I do not know who this treasure belonged to but whomever it belonged to they are long dead.

She pointed to the corpses and bones on the floor, and then packed up some of the gold into his pack, and took a golden bow, encrusted with jewels. Being an elfish bow it was light and easy to carry. Laying down her old bow she then continued to scoop up heaps of gold. Her greed over powering her. It was becoming late and the troops still hadn't moved out of the hole yet. Lossen had not been watchful that it was becoming troll time and the owner of this cave no matter how abondoned it looked would be comming home.

Lossen could hear heavy foot thuds outside the cave. When she looked up she saw a troll. He must have stayed in another cave during the day and now seeing the trespassers swung at them with his mighty club wanting fresh meat for his dinner.

OOC: You can't kill him with arrows because he blocks with the club. Don't kill him in your post. He is too strong and will kill you. The most you can do is run over past the club and hit him with your blade.

[Seraph]

Stratmarrius turned round to face the beast. It was large even for a troll, and it’s mottled skin had many old scars. It bellowed fiercely at the intruders.
Stratmarrius, who had earlier changed into his spiked plate armour charged forward.
The troll swung its immense club at his head. He ducked out of the way just in time. The club collided with the cave wall, sending rock fragments flying. Stratmarrius sliced the troll’s arm, but it was merely a glancing blow. He was roughly thrown to the floor. The troll loomed above him. It brought down its club. Stratmarrius braced the impact with the large spikes that protruded from his gauntlets. But there was enough force to almost break his wrists.