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Post by Athena on Jan 16, 2004 17:58:44 GMT -5
Numair sat in the back of the tavern, his face cloaked in shadows. With a fluid motion he drained his cup of ale and mentioned to the server lass for a refill. Oracle sat in her customary spot on his shoulder, her claws digging into his shoulder and her green eyes tightened to slits, she gave a hiss of displeasure.
“I feel the same m’dear” murmured Numair, his eyes never stopping roving the other patrons of the bar, “But we must wait here for my information to arrive”
Oracle yowled her displeasure, “I know, I know” said Numair, wrinkling his nose in distaste.
Not long after, the bar wench came simpering up to Numair. She fluttered her eyelashes coquettishly and leaned far more then she should have had to in order to place the drinks on the table, while her loose blouse slipped and showed off quite a bit.
“Will that be all” she asked, knowing in her face
Disgust filled Numair’s face, and upon his shoulder Oracle hissed her displeasure, and Numair smiled upon the cat.
“Couldn’t have put it better myself, the décor in this place certainly leaves much to be desired.’
He slid from the table and began walking to the door, tossing a copper bit upon the table in payment for the drinks.
He forced his way through the drunken patrons, several of whom tried to engage him in drinks. He ignored them however and made his way to the door where he spied the familiar face of one of his informants.
With a low mutter of “Go” to Oracle, she jumped easily off his shoulder and reappeared moments later with a crumpled up piece of paper in her mouth. She appeared well pleased with herself and began preening herself upon Numair’s shoulder. Numair smiled fondly upon her before turning her attention to the note, when he finished reading it, he paused for a second and appeared deep in thought.
(will post more later)
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Post by tancred on Jan 17, 2004 12:04:48 GMT -5
The last night in the Last Homely House passed by quietly. Morning came all too soon for many in the company. Elrond summoned them all into the large courtyard inside the main doors. Glorfindel was there, as were Elrond's twin sons, Elladan and Elrohir. The Lord of the household spoke, "My friends, it is now time for your departure. I will not send you forth disconsolate and directionless. I have provided you all with a horse of your own, small ponies serving for the Hobbits. You also have a couple pack-horses that can carry your extra supplies. Watch after these strong animals, for the will serve you well and hasten your important venture. It will be difficult for them to tread the pass over Caradhras, but they should be able to do so."
"It should be warm for most of your journey. Yet, there will be extreme cold up in the Misty Mountains. And so, my sons, have provided you all with these." Elladan and Elrohir drew everyone's attention to a railing by the porch. Drapped over it were several gray, furry items.
"Warg pelts," the brothers explained with proud grins. "We slew many of them in a battle with them and their Orc riders last month in the Ettenmoors. They are extremely warm, even more so than a bear's hide would be. And they are also water proof, so they will keep you dry. There is a Warg blanket for each of you, as well as a cloak. Our sister, the Lady Arwen, and her maids have been hard at work in sewing a pelt into a cloak and hood form for each of you. May they serve you well."
"That is a generous gift," beamed Tancred. Cloaks lined with fur were a sign of rank in Arthedain. Only nobility or true trappers and hunters had them. And he had never seen ones made of Warg fur. "Thank you, Lords Elrohir and Elladan. And be sure to thank the Lady Arwen and her maids for us." He bowed.
"Other supplies you will find packed on to your horses' saddles," continued Elrond. "Bedrolls, tarps, bows and arrows for hunting, poles for fishing, swords for those who've had none, and most importantly food. Enough to last you a long time."
"There are maps. Yet, your path should be well known by those Elves from Lorien and Mirkwood that go with you. Your mission is known to the Lord and Lady of Lorien and the King of Mirkwood. They will be expecting you, and be able to provide you shelter, rest, and supply upon your arrival."
There was a silence. Finally, Elrond spoke again, and in a most seriously grave tone. "My friends, I can not impress upon you the importance of your mission. Your success will further the safety and peace of all good peoples in Middle-earth. Your failure...and things will not fare well for anyone. The Shadow in southern Mirkwood can not be allowed to spread. I encourage you all to be steadfast, endurant, loyal, and brave. May the blessing of the One, the Valar, Elves, and all that is good go with you."
Elrond, Glorfindel, Elladan, and Elrohir all bowed slightly. Each of the members of the company bowed low or curtsied.
Mounting their horses, they gallopped slowly out of Rivendell. As he looked behind, Tancred noticed a figure watching from a high window...the Lady Arwen. Their eyes met. He bowed in his saddle to her, turned, and made his way over the expansive bridge just outside of the Last Homely House's main gate.
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Post by Athena on Jan 17, 2004 15:53:37 GMT -5
Telumehtar paced up and down courtyard. He repeatedly craned his neck upwards to stare at the position of the moon. Anxiously he tapped his foot on the ground. Suddenly a dark shadow passed over him, noises rustled from around him. Telumehtar’s head snapped upwards, his gaze trying to pierce through the gloom.
“Whose there?” he called out sharply, trying to belie the panic rising in him, “show yourself!”
A small flame was struck, the noise of it hissing in the stillness. It cast the shadows in sharp relief and showed a man carrying the flame. The man was hooded and dressed all in black, and at his feet lay a large black cat with piercing green eyes. “As you wish” said the stranger, with a mocking bow, he drew nearer to the Prince, “…your highness” he added, the words fairly dripping with sarcasm off of his tongue.
“Your name sir?” said Telumehtar sharply, striding forward to get a better look at the stranger.
The man laughed mirthlessly, his deep brown eyes never leaving the Prince’s face. He tossed his hood back and bowed once more,
“Numair if it pleases your highness, Numair Queenscove”. Numair tossed a small waded up piece of paper so that it rolled to the Prince’s feet, “Look familiar?” he asked, his voice taunting and sarcastic
“I have no time for games” said Telumehtar, crushing the paper beneath his foot, “you as I am sure you are aware, have been ordered here because there is a job for you to fulfill”
“Ah yes, there’s that nasty word. Ordered you say? Well, I just don’t seem to know the meaning of that. And ‘sides, just what do you want from me O’ Prince?” his eyes glittering strangely in the light.
“A demand that you do your royal duty, to serve the Minas Tirith and her her people…”
A pregnant pause followed the Prince’s grand announcement, finally he sighed and continued, “And obviously you shall be repaid well for your troubles.”
Numair smiled a feral smile, “Now that’s what I want to hear, now what’s all this about a Princess…”
Telumehtar paused briefly and swallowed hard for a moment and then he began to speak. He told Numair of Isotta’s descion to run away and her motives. When he had finished, Numair appeared to be thinking deeply. At last he stirred and spoke, “And just what is it that you want me to do?”
“Watch her, make sure no harm befalls her, guard her with your life.” Telumehtar paused once more, “I, I have reason to believe that her life is forfeit if she returns to Minas Tirith” he said, speaking softly and rather nervously
“Interesting” said Numair, his deep brown eyes peering at the Prince’s face, “Very interesting… But, sorry, not interested”
Telumehtar’s started at him, shock showing in his eye’s “Is the price not high enough, what more can you possibly want!”
“I am no nursemaid” snapped Numair, “A mercenary yes, ask me to kill and give me your price and I shall do so gladly. However, I have no desire to watch over some helpless Princess that is more skittish then a colt”
“Do not dare to be so presumptuous to think me helpless” growled Telumehtar, his hand resting on his sword hilt and his face pale with fury. “There are other way’s to get a person to do what they wish, none of them as pleasant as money. Believe me, I have no desire for you to be NEAR the Lady Isotta, alas certain circumstances are beyond my control and you are my last resort.”
“Aww, isn’t that nice of the Prince to notice us ‘lesser beings’” snarled Numair, Oracle yowled in agreement
The two men stared fiercely at each other, the electricity between them almost tangible. It was difficult to tell who was angrier, and one more word or look would bring them both to battle. Finally after a moment Numair’s face changed oddly. Soon after, his face changed back to a more calm expression and he spoke,
“Fine, I accept your offer. I want my money in advance though, and the price has risen higher”
The Prince readily agreed and not soon after Numair was riding swiftly away from Minas Tirith. He rode upon a magnificent black stallion, it’s mighty stride’s eating up the distance between Minas Tirith and Rivendell, Isotta’s supposed location that she had told Telumehtar. For day’s Numair rode hard, hardly stopping to eat or sleep. Not long after, Numair finally rode up to Rivendell, it was mid-morning and the courtyard appeared to be a buzz of activity with people going to and fro. Numair looked around puzzled for someone to direct himself, with a small smile, he noticed Lord Elrond standing in a corner and watching the hubbub with an odd expression. Numair vaulted off of the stallion with Oracle on his shoulder. He strode forward quickely, pushing himself rudely past several people. At last he reached Elrond and he bowed a quick bow and spoke,
“Lord Elrond? Tis I, Numair Queenscove. I have been riding hard and I seek news of the Lady Isotta”
Elrond looked upon Numair for a moment, a slight breeze twirled some dead leaves to life as they flittered in the air. Numair felt his knees almost give way, the wise elf seemed to sense all that Numair was thinking. For a moment Numair almost felt as he had when he had been a child, being scolded by…. But no, he must stop that line of thinking. Numair shook his head and the spell was abruptly lifted and he felt like himself once more. Elrond peered attentively at Numair and finally spoke in a dry voice,
“Well master Numair, then you have just missed your lady. She rode out of here not long ago with a small company, they are on their way to Lothorien as we speak”
Numair bowed once more to Elrond and he then sprang to his horse, “Many thanks Lord Elrond, I fear I cannot stay as long as I would like in Rivendell as my present quest drives me onwards.”
Numair wheeled his horse around and galloped off in the direction that Elrond had indicated. By the sun and the marks on the trail, he was due to meet up with the company before night set.
Elrond stood and stared after the departing figure on horseback. His face seemed older and more lined with the wrinkles of age and wisdom. Glorfindel to stared at the retreating figure and confusion was evident on his face.
“My Lord?” he asked Elrond, puzzled
Elrond sighed deeply, “I know Numair seems to be not the most honorable of men.” And here a strange expression appeared on his face, almost as if he was looked through the boundries of time, “But for good or evil, each shall have their own part to play before their work is done. Good luck to all of you” he called out softly.
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Aladrien
Mate
"I love this guy. He's crazy!"
Posts: 47
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Post by Aladrien on Jan 17, 2004 18:38:36 GMT -5
Imthorons roots and trunk ached slightly, but after the cracking of her joints was through, she felt motivated. She hadn't run so much in her entire life. She lagged behind slightly, but with the breeze flowing, she felt superb. Few seemed to notice her thumping along, except for a quick glace over the shoulder by Tancred and Arratil, who had been riding beside her the entire way.
"How are you doing, lass?" Arratil's voice was jolted when he smacked down in the saddle.
"I'm well," she breathed steadily--in, out, in out-- making a near-silent humming sound. That noise was drowned out by the rustling of her branches.
"You are keeping up well, Imp," Arratil comforted and encouraged his friend. He knew they would be on the move for quite a long time, so he tried to keep her spirits up. His horse, Mica, coughed beneath him to warm his lungs. "Easy girl," Arratil's voice hummed as he gave her a gentle pat.
Imthoron stumbled on a rock, falling to her knees and slowing down. She quickly lept up and continued running as if nothing had happened, giggling as she did. The landing had caused the ground to shake slightly, spooking most of the horses a little. Tancred looked back again to see if everything was alright.
Imthoron chuckled to herself. I have waited so long for a journey like this!
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Post by Athena on Jan 17, 2004 20:41:34 GMT -5
The sun was setting and the stars shown bright in the sky. A light breeze had picked up and with it carried the smell of a fire and food cooking. Numair grinned wolfishly and called back to Oracle who sat upon his shoulder,
“Aw, aint that nice Oracle, they have dinner waiting for us”
Oracle purred in agreement, her nose appreciatively sniffing the air. As they drew closer to the make-shift camp, Numair could see signs of movement but no guards on duty.
“Bad form that, very bad form, just anyone could waltz in here and slaughter them all in their sleep.”
Numair grinned, “Theres all sorts of people round these parts.”
The stallion he rode to seemed to gain extra strength as they neared the encampment. With a low chuckle, Numair kicked his feet into the stallion and the stallion sprang into a canter as they rode right into the midst of the camp. People scattered out of the way of the horse’s hooves, and mare’s whinnied at the stallion as the stallion screamed back. Numair finally drove the stallion to a halt several feet before a tall blonde haired man standing before a frightened looking red haired women. Numair grinned once more, he had found his charge. He leapt from the horse and bowed deeply toward the women,
“Lady Isotta I presume”
Isotta stared at him once more How does this stranger know my name, I don’t know him, I have certainly never met him before she schooled her troubled expressions back to their former countenance,
“Aye good sir, pray I have never seen you before. Can I inquire to know your name?”
“My my my, such fine words from a noble miss, I can’t keep up with all that high talk, you’ll have to talk in common tongue for us regular’s to know of what you speak. Of course, you nobles wouldn’t DARE speak to one of us commoners, would be to worried about getting your dress dirtied”
Isotta blinked, puzzled, she opened her mouth to speak once more but Tancred stepped forward, his hand on his sword hilt and his voice dangerously soft. “Do you dare to presume to threaten the Lady sir” Tancred looked Numair up and down scornfully, “At the very least she was being only courteous to you and wanting to know your name. Your name which I for one would also wish to know. And what is the meaning of this? You barging into our camp with that giant brute of an animal. For shame sir, for shame”
“For shame sir, for shame” said Numair with a curl in his lip, mimicking Tancred. Suddenly his voice changed to a low hiss and he to put a hand upon his sword, Oracle upon his shoulder hissed in anger, “I have no desire to hear such speech from you ‘good sir knight’ I noticed you to have yet to introduce yourself. And the Lady mind is a…friend of mine, an acquaintance. I have braved a long and harrowing journey to find her, and I aim to follow her wherever she goes.”
Isotta grew angrier and angrier, How dare this man come and barge in like this. And an acquaintance of hers! Stuff and nonsense, she certainly would die before she was forced to deal with the likes of him. Her blue eyes flashed and she strode forward, no longer the meek and cowering princess. Before she could utter a word however, Numair took her roughly by the arm, so rough that she would have cried out but his next words forestalled any sign of protest. In a low whisper into her ear he spoke,
“Oh, I wouldn’t do that…princess, your brother sends his love by the way” she turned to face him, his eyes mocking her and daring her to contradict him. She tried to hide a sudden shudder by how he had said her former title. Swallowing deeply, she caught another warning look from Numair and turned toward Tancred,
“Indeed. It, it had been so long that I had long forgotten Sir…”
Numair interrupted as smoothly as if there had been no pause, Queenscove, Numair Queenscove. Aye me and Isotta go way back, me and her brother are, dear dear friends, closer then blood one may say. Same for the Lady Isotta and me” and he cast her a beaming smile. Tancred looked curiously upon Isotta’s face,
“Is this true?” he asked
She nodded weakly in yes.
“Then I welcome you Sir Numair, and I apologize for my harsh words earlier” Tancred stepped forward and held out hand to be shaken by Numair. Numair stared down coldly upon Tancred’s hand until Tancred withdrew it blushing.
“Do you mean to come with us on our quest Sir Numair?” asked Amrod, stepping forward to inspect the stranger for the first time.
“Just Numair” said Numair, “And this is my hard mistress Oracle” and he indicated the black cat staring balefully down upon all. “And yes, I intend to follow you all on your Quest, I have promised her brother that I shall follow her to the ends of the earth myself.”
“Her brother?” asked Tancred, staring down puzzled upon Isotta, this is the first I have heard of you having siblings.
“Oh the Lady likes to keep secrets close to her” said Numair airily, ignoring the desperate look Isotta shot him.
“Perhaps we should rejoin the others by the fire, bye the smell of things the dinner is nearly ready. Everyone there is awaiting us, except perhaps Arratil and the Entwife. I believe they went off to the woods together not long after they settled.” Said Amrod mildly, indicating the direction of which they had left.
“Indeed, food sounds like an excellent idea” said Numair, “I have scarcely had nary a bite to eat since I have set off for the road”
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Post by tancred on Jan 18, 2004 17:08:14 GMT -5
As the company ate, Tancred looked at Numair suspiciously. The knight was uncomfortable with having a stranger just ride up and join the company. A rather brutish and rude stranger, at that. How could he be trusted? The Lord Elrond, a good judge of character, had spoken with each of the company members personally, and seen them as worthy. Numair had had no test. Would he have passed Elrond's scrutiny?
Then there was the fact that Isotta had claimed to not know him, and then had changed her mind rather quickly. Even now, Numair had insisted she sit next to him. She didn't eat much of anything, and seemed quite restless. Numair put a stop to that with a hand about her arm. Subtle, but not subtle enough to escape Tancred's notice. Isotta seemed trapped. Tancred decided he'd keep a very close eye on Numair, and try to speak with Isotta alone at the next possible chance.
***********************
Hundreds of miles away, a large black bird flew against the wind. I perched upon a mountain cleft, and chattered into the ear of an equally large and black bird. The first flew back in the direction it had come from, and the second made all due speed eastwards.
And so it was that by this relay system, one fresh Crebain finally made its way to the southwestern section of Mirkwood. Divebombing down the long cold and extinct vent of Dol Guldur, it finally rested in the throneroom of the Necromancer himself. It chirped, the Necromancer and his second in command at Dol Guldur, Khamul the Easterling, listened, and then the Dark Lord spoke his mind.
"A princess of Gondor...so far afield and almost alone.... Interesting. Khamul, this is too good an opportunity; it can not and will not be looked over! Yet, I have much on my mind of late, and can not devote my full attention to this matter. I give you freedom of action in regards to the fair princess. Bring her before me, alive and well! How you do that, and what you do between her capture and her arrival here is entirely up to you."
Behind his black hood, the Ringwraith flashed an invisible and cruel smile.
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Post by Vortigen on Jan 18, 2004 23:02:32 GMT -5
As the second day of the journey passed the troupe travelled reached the borders of Eregion and the Hollin Ridge as they stepped over its stony crest they passed into the forgotten realm of Celebrimbor that had been long destroyed but still in that empty country they could still yet hear the sounds of dwarven hammers pounding in depths of the mountains. The fellowship chatted happily amongst themselves, Tancred and Isotta talked of distances and of destinations while Numair kept a close eye on her, Immothron and Arratil conversed lightly of trees and earth, the hobbits, Andy and Violet talked in length of recipes and entrees while Katalyn and the Elves walked in silence. As they descended the high crest and into the valley they were suprised to hear a fair voice singing. "There are none who live in this realm, war passed over it long ago" said Tancred As they neared a copse in the empty forest the words became clear: The night is passing and day breaks once more I say fairwell to the silver stars fairwell and may you find the heavens once more what drove you to leave that which you loved your journey has ended in darkness the flame of the skies has gone out and with it goes my hope and heart a great light has passed - into the west but it shall return The company stood on the edge of the clearing looking inward: in its center sat a single figure clad in darkest sable. "Should we approach" questioned Tancred "Nay, for I hear tell of the Enemy's foulest servants: nine riders they say dressed in darkest black each wearing a twisted crown and bearing a Ring of power" replied Numair "Do you think one of the Enemy's servant could sing so fairly" questioned Isotta But it fell on deaf ears, quick as a flash Numair was upon the stanger. "Who are you, and what are you doing in these lands" he said "Tell me Numair" began the stanger "since when have people learned to suffer your presence" said the stranger At this he stood and removed his hood to reveal a great length of black hair, a set of piercing green eyes and a pair of pointed ears. At this Mynarwen uttered a small scream. "Aegnor I thought you were dead" she gasped running up to him
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Post by Lady Disdain on Jan 19, 2004 3:51:48 GMT -5
Aegnor's sharp expression softened as the elf maid ran to him. He caught her in his arms swinging her round like a small child before setting her once more on her feet. The two began to talk rapidly in elvish to the consternation of the humans. From the smiles on the two faces - and indeed on the other elves - it was clear he was no stranger to them.
Tancred sighed and removed his hand from his sword hilt. Questions could come later, for now, the shadows were lengthening and this was as good a place as any to stop for the night. Besides he still needed to talk to Isotta about their mysterious arrival from the day before. For all her words she seemed terribly uncomfortable around the fellow. Tancred needed to talk to her soon, and without her new shadow.
After a very little time it was agreed that they would stop for the night, and that the strange elf was welcome to share their fire and company. As the night went on and drink flowed freely, the festive atmosphere increased. The elf was encouraged to sing again, which he did after a very little prompting. Not to be outdone, the shirelings began a chorus of their own that soon had everyone clapping and cheering.
Yet despite all the good cheer, several members of the party seemed strangely distracted. Neither Tancred nor Isotta seemed to be in a festive mood, as he looked only at her, and she looked at no one. Both were silent. Numair too seemed dispirited, and the looks he cast at the newcomer were ones of suspicion. Eventually he left the party, and made his way to the edges of the makeshift camp. Someone had to keep watch.
Someone was already there. For a moment Numair was alarmed, before he recognized her as the other woman of the party. What was her name? Oracle tightened her grip on his shoulder, her needle-like claws faintly pricking him through his leathers. He laughed to himself. "I cry you mercy, my dear. Of course a catly name is impossible to forget."
Katalyn turned at his words. She was a pretty piece. He wondered what led to her involvement in this. "Were you adressing me?" Her tone was mild and curious, which made rather a pleasant change after the hostile looks the Princess's knight in arms had been giving him all day. He decided the truth was simplest.
"I'm afraid not, I rather adressing my one true companion. Lady, this is Oracle." The womans eyes lit up, which made her appear rather more beautiful than before. He wondered if she knew. His opinion of her improved when she made no foolish baby talk or noises of disgust, but rather held her hand out carefully to Oracle.
To his surprise Oracle expressed absolute approval, not merely rubbing her head against the offered hand, but granting a few licks of her rough pink tongue as well. As far as he knew she had never accepted someone that readily. The woman drew closer to scratch Oracle under her chin. She was really very close. He should say something.
"Why aren't you with the others?"
She smiled, looking at him once more for the first time since she had seen Oracle. "Someone has to keep watch." She returned her attention to Oracle, who was voicing her disapproval that the petting had stopped. "And you?"
"Those were my thoughts exactly."
"Then, perhaps there is hope for this mission afterall." She resumed her position, cradling a purring Oracle in her arms, and after a few minutes, he joined her.
"There was no one on watch yesterday."
"Meaning you saw no one," the woman looked at him with an impish grin. Her hair, which had been so sensibly tied back during the day, had come down and was waving round her face. He suppressed a mad urge to run his fingers through it.
"I'm afraid you have not endeared yourself to m'lord Tancred." she said, apparently at random. Oh let her be at a loss for words as well
"He is none of my concern."
"Nor mine, but you concern him. Or rather your attentions to a certain lady concern him."
After a moment the possible implications of her sentence sunk in. "He thinks I am his rival?"
"Are you not?" she countered.
"My only concern is that the Lady Isotta remain safe."
"But of course. But as that is practically his only concern these days you must understand that he feels threatened." She looked keenly at him, "And the lady in question seems rather frightened of you than otherwise. You say her brother sent you?"
He schooled his face into one of disinterest, "I said nothing of the kind, lady, I merely said..." she placed a silencing finger on his lips.
"That the two of you were close, I know. Somehow you don't seem the sort to cherish long term relationships."
Was it his imagination or did that sentence suggest something more than a doubt of his closeness to the prince? She was eyeing him again, and he found himself very aware of her nearness.
"And you? What brings you into this?"
This time her smile held no humor. "I was given little choice in the matter. Given my choice, I would be elsewhere. As I think would you."
"Not at this particular moment," he said.
"And what would you have at this particular moment?" she asked, tracing her fingers down the braid of his tunic till her hand was resting on his upper thigh.
For all that he wanted to take her then and there, he phrased his next words carefully. She might not truly mean what she was suggesting. "I take nothing that is not freely offered."
She smiled, "I take where I please." And she kissed him. For a second he could do nothing, then he pulled her to him, crushing her in his arms, his hands searching for the fastening of her gown."
She laughed and pulled enough away that she could speak, "Not here, I've no wish for an audience. For all that they might learn something." She stood and began to walk away, confident that he would follow.
Which of course he would. She led him to a small hollow that was - conveniently - just out of earshot of the camp. And she was in his arms again.
"What of the watch?" he asked, although at this point he didn't much care.
"Let the others worry about that."
Well perhaps this won't be such a terrible duty after all.
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Post by Athena on Jan 19, 2004 18:09:49 GMT -5
As they sat at supper, Isotta was aware of Tancred seated on her left and Numair seated on her right, both making her uncomfortable. For much of the meal she merely toyed with her food and tried to pay no heed to either of them. As it ended, each person at the company split up to their respective positions. Isotta was dimly aware of all but her, Tancred, and the hobbits still being seated. At last however even the Halflings were sated and they to got up to leave leave, leaving Tancred and Isotta behind. For a moment both were silent, each thinking their own private thoughts. At last Tancred courteously got up and bowed toward Isotta,
“Milady, a moment with you please, preferably somewhere private where there is no danger in being overheard.:
Isotta bit her lip nervously but swiftly rose from the table. She took Tancred’s proffered arm and together they walked toward the edge of camp. Tancred after eyeing the nightlife that surrounded them finally began to speak,
“Milady, for the short time I have been favored with your presence I have learned little of your history.”
Here Isotta made a move to speak but Tancred interrupted her once more, “Nay let me finish.” He stopped for a moment as if to compose his thoughts once more, “But in danger of angering you. May I say that Sir, if he is even deserving of that title which I doubt, Numair is scarcely the sort of company that such a lady as yourself might keep. Mr. Queenscove has already shown himself to be a rude and brutish man. Tell me Isotta, is he indeed a relation of yours?”
Isotta bit her lip and looked down upon the ground. In no way could she tell Tancred of her relation to the Royal Crown. It had moved beyond mere secrecy into danger. She shuddered at the thought of what the enemy might do to her in hopes of goading her father to retaliation. And she already suspected that Tancred suspected her. Finally she turned her head, her blue eyes meeting his.
“Sir…”
“Tancred, simply Tancred” murmured Tancred, also staring deeply into her face. Isotta felt as if the ground was threatening to tilt, a loud buzzing was in her ears and her voice came as if from afar.
“Tancred” she said firmly, trying to belie the panic rising within her, “Master Numair, is, is” and here she faltered and turned her head away from his, “A good friend”. She turned to stare at the ground, tears springing to her eyes and her heart feeling as if it broke in two.
Tancred stared at her and gently took her head in his hands to stare at her once more, “Then for your sake Isotta, I shall suffer his presence. I do not doubt that you have a story behind yourself, and I hope with time I shall earn your respect and trust to…”
“No” said Isotta in a low voice, putting an arm on Tancred’s shoulder. “Don’t say it like that. You have earned my respect and trust ten times over, it is just that circumstances beyond my control…” she drew in a ragged breath and she found that she was slightly shaking. In a calmer voice she continued, “I, I just can’t. You must believe me” and she stared up at Tancred, praying he wouldn’t be angry and that he would understand. Tancred stared down at her for a long moment, his eyes caught on the gleam of the Gondorian brooch featuring the White Tree. When he turned his eye once more, he noticed that Isotta was crying.
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Post by Vortigen on Jan 19, 2004 21:52:03 GMT -5
The evening was quite enjoyable to Aegnor and he felt enlightened to be once more in the company of people. For a long while he chatted with the elves who told him of the members of the company and of the mission that they were on, soon though Aegnor became interested in the smaller members of the company. He went to where Andy and Violet sat and struck up conversation.
"In all my travels I have never seen such a folk as you." said Aegnor somewhat awkwardly in the western tounge.
"We are hobbits sir elf, halflings" replied Andy "and we here you are on of the old elves who saw the old tales come true"
"Yes Master Halfling I am now old enough to call even the the race of men young for I was alive when they awoke on the shores of Cuiven and I have seen the light of the Silamarils of which the old tales tell" said Aegnor thoughtfully
"Then you too have had your life ripped away by war" replied a teary Violet
"Lady Violet a war most be fought for this shadow would consume us if it was not, but when darkness breaks the sun shall shine out ever clearer and spring blooms once more, even under the snows of Angmar spring flowers may bloom once more"
At this Violet broke into tears sobbing something about death and destruction. But Aegnor was distracted something flew across the night sky, it was very high and very small but still noticeable to his elven eyes. But he was distracted by Amrod coming to question the members of the company.
"The Lady Katalyn and that wrech Numair have been missing for quite a while" he said looking towards the forest where Tancred and Isotta's dim forms could be seen.
"Oh let them stay missing ... its no great loss" interjected a still weeping Violet
At this moment Oracle sauntered into the camp looking very full of herself, she stopped and gave Aegnor a haughty glance and then continued towards Numairs gear.
"I do not think they are two who would like to be bothered" smirked Aegnor
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Post by tancred on Jan 21, 2004 11:56:41 GMT -5
When Tancred saw that Isotta was crying, he gulped inwardly, "Oh no!" He said outloud, "Oh, Lady Isotta! I am dreadfully sorry. I did not intend to make you weep. I should not have pressed so."
"No, it was not you," sighed Isotta. "Its just that...I can not speak of it. I wish to. I just am prevented from doing so. You understand?"
"I understand," replied the knight. "And I believe you when you say you'd like to tell me, but can not."
Isotta breathed a sigh of relief. A huge sigh. Yet the tears remained. Tancred placed a gentle finger under her chin, and raised it so that they looked into each other's eyes. Tancred continued, "I know that something keeps your lips sealed, so that you can not tell me. I will not pressure you to reveal anything to me. Yet, know that if you ever do wish to speak about what troubles you, I am here. I will help you in whatever way I can. And be extremely honored in doing so. I am ever at your service, Lady Isotta."
"Thank you," said Isotta. "Thank you very much. If I can ever tell you, Tancred, I will. One thing...."
"Yes," the knight asked.
"If I am to stop addressing you as Sir," said Isotta, "then you must also refrain from addressing me as Lady. How does that sound?"
"As you wish, m'la...err...Isotta," replied the knight with a slight blush. "If I can help it. I may slip every now and again, so I beg your pardon in advance."
"It is good enough," laughed Isotta. She was much relieved; if Tancred and the others did not call her by a title of respect, she could adjust to this environment more. An environment where she was on equal footing with everyone else. It might also help her remain hidden from her royal past, a past that was a danger to her even now.
Tancred bowed, and kissed her hand. "Come, Isotta," he said. "The night air is chilly. We should return to camp before we are missed."
Side by side, and ever so slightly hand in hand, Isotta and Tancred walked slowly back to camp.
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Aladrien
Mate
"I love this guy. He's crazy!"
Posts: 47
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Post by Aladrien on Jan 21, 2004 15:32:08 GMT -5
Imthoron hid herself amongst the rest of the trees to try to fit in. She kept very still and out of sight, though she could still hear the chatter of the rest of the company. She rarely heard Arratil:
"Arratil, would you like something to drink? Anything to eat?" Tancred would ask over the others. When he recieved no response, he would raise his voice, "Arratil?"
"Hmm? Oh, yes. Right. Food? No. Thank you anyway," was all Arratil would reply.
Imthoron didn't want the others to watch her sleep. She was afraid they would pick at her leaves or kick her roots as she slept. She didn't want them to cook her apples without permission or mock her as she was in her unconscious state.
Imthoron could see sparks fly from their roaring fire. She shuddered and huddled back even more. Fire would burn her to a crisp. It would kill her leaves, turn her branches to ash and reduce her to dust that would blow away in the wind. She would be nothing more than a distant memory.
Another tree rustled beside her. Perhaps it was another ent just like her. Instead, Arratil appeared.
"Imp? Imthoron? Where are you, young entling!" Arratil weaved in and out of all the forests, tapping on the trunks of the trees. "I know you're here. I heard you breathing."
Just then, he tapped on the trunk of Imthoron. She giggled and emerged. "You used me weakness, goon!"
"I was only trying to find you. Why are you s far from camp. I bet the others would love to hear your stories! They really do like you, Imp."
Imthoron hoomed and looked to the smoke rising. "It's not that. The fire...it will burn me," Imthoron shuddered as she watched the fire pop and crackle before her.
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Post by Lady Disdain on Jan 23, 2004 8:03:18 GMT -5
They both fell asleep afterwords, and it was several hours later when Numair awoke. Katalyn lay fast asleep, curled up next to him, and as it was not yet day, he made no move to wake her, but just pulled her closer to him, till her back rested against his chest.
She looked so much softer, more fragile in sleep than waking, like a vulnerable child, though he doubted she would appreciate the comparison. He would have to find out her age, after all for all he knew she was little more than a child, and if that was the case, well, he'd have to stop this. He was no corrupter of children, although, he thought with a grin, it was obvious she'd been corrupted long before he got to her. She'd even suggested a few things that he'd never heard of, and he'd had his share of women. All the same if she was less than eighteen he would have to end things.
At that moment, Katalyn stirred, though to Numair's surprise she did not wake. After a minute he heard her begin to murmer under her breath, "No, no please... please don't... Jamie...beg you...don't do this..." She began to tremble and he realized she was crying.
"Kat? Kat wake up. Its just a dream Kat." The girl showed no signs of waking. He sat up and began to chafe her arm. "Kat you must wake up."
Suddenly eyes flew open and her hand struck out wildly, knocking against his jaw - although fortunately it was a glancing blow.
She turned to him, and he could see the look on her face go from fear to surprise and - he thought - realization before settling into a closed mask of indifference. Even nursing a sore jaw he had to admire her self control. You would never know to look at her that she had been terrified a moment before.
He decided to make light of things. "I hope madam," he said, indicating his jaw, "that this was not a message you meant for me. I would be happy to pass it along for you if you will only indicate the intended recipient."
She made no indication that she had heard, but instead stood and began to dress herself.
"Kat, it might help if you'd talk about it, you know."
She turned to him, but now she looked angry, "There's nothing to discuss.'
"Nothing to discuss? Kat you just back-handed me across the jaw."
"I'm sorry, did I hurt you? I should have been more careful had a realized you were so fragile." Her tone was biting. "And my name, sir, is Katalyn."
"You didn't seem to mind my calling you Kat before."
"And if it were still 'before' then there would be no problem. As it is now 'now' you will not adress me so informally."
Numair found himself growing angry despite himself, "Are you ordering me you little slut?"
"Funny how the woman is only considered a slut after the man has had his fill. I notice you made no moral judgements before when you were seeking to get between my legs."
"That was 'before'" he said drily, "This is 'now'."
She had been braiding her hair back, but as he spoke, her mask of anger slipped and he could once more see the fear and hurt from before, which must have been lying just beneath the surface. Deciding to try again, he stood and went to her.
"Katalyn, please. It will do you no good to keep whatever this is bottled up inside. Tell me, who was Jamie?"
"It is none of your concern, " she said, tying the end of the the tail back with cord.
"But it could be, if you'd let it."
"You assume too much. I let you have my body for a night, not my mind and not my spirit. My affairs are my affairs alone and you would do well to stay out of them." She paused, and her lip curled in contempt, "You had best dress yourself, and return to camp before the others wake."
Without another word she turned and stalked off in the direction of the camp.
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Post by Vortigen on Jan 23, 2004 19:11:58 GMT -5
Aegnor sat before the dying fire starring into its glowing depths, thinking of this new mission to counter Sauron. He remebered what Mynawen had told him of the fellowship and their stories of them Katalyn and Issota seemed the most mysterious, he knew of Numair and wondered what foul deed the Lady Issota had done to earn his attention. He looked up to the stars once again to see what tale they told this time he saw no sign of the fowl that had circled earlier. But it was the light of Earandil that caught his attention shining brighter than the others. He lost himself in memories and visions of his past.
It was the light foot steps of Katalyn that awoke him from his nostalgia in the faint hours of morning. She stepped into the clearing looking around but did not acknowledge Aegnors prescence. He sniffed dryly but respected her code of silence. Several minutes later Numair stepped into camp glaring at both of them. He walked to his things and whispered something to Oracle and walked back out of camp. Aegnor looks to where Katalyn sits:
"The others should be waking soon" he says not really meaning anything
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Post by Athena on Jan 24, 2004 21:45:28 GMT -5
Angrily Numair stalked back away from camp, this time Oracle trailing him. That, that insufferable women was there, taunting him. He understood that she desired to keep her past private, heavens knows that he to wouldn’t tell anyone his past for the world, well perhaps Oracle. At the thought of her name he glanced down, her knowing green eyes peered up at him quizzically.
“Meow” she asked
“It’s nothing” he murmured, leaning his hand down to help her up onto his shoulder. “I say, I shall never understand women, entirely to emotional.” Oracle glared balefully at him, “Oh no, not you m’dear. And yes I mean the Lady Katalyn” he said sarcastically. He paused for a moment and then resumed his tirade. “I say, steady on. She had no business doing that to me. I am most certainly not in the wrong. And no I don’t care of her thoughts upon the matter, nor do I wish to repair matters between us. Both of us have received what we wanted, a momentary night’s pleasure, there is nothing more to be desired.”
If Oracle had been human, her look would have been one of insufferable know it all hiding a cough. As it was, she jumped haughtily down from his shoulder and strode down the path before him, her expression on of supreme smugness. Numair walked along behind her, his eyes rolling. At last they reached a good vantage point from which to watch over the rest of the camp, and to keep watch for others coming towards them. Numair had lead a varied career and life, and was well practiced at watching for danger. The silence of the air was at last broken by his speech once more,
“In all my day’s I have never seen such a improperly run camp as this one here is. Tis a miracle to me that they weren’t all slaughtered in their sleep with no one standing guard. Some people here are even from the military, you would think that they would realize that they are in more danger here then they have ever been in their lives. Even the animals can sense the evil growing, everyone but these foolish people. Military pah!” he exclaimed, as he spit in disgust. Oracle yowled and agreed, puffing her black fur up in anger and in indignity.
“I’m glad someone listens to me. I say, we really ought to appoint some matter of leader, not that anyone else could do very good job of it, and none of them have seen nor have experienced real hardships like you and me. They are like a disorderly flock of sheep, what could Lord Elrond have been thinking when he let them go. But alas, none of this is my concern, I just need to keep the ‘ickle princessykin’s safe from harm. Though it’s odd, I’ve seen the looks that the knight has cast upon her, and those she has cast upon him. I do wonder what the knight would say when he learned of his intended lover’s past eh?”
Numair leaned his back against a tree and closed his eyes reflexively. The sun was dawning and the welcome warmth of it felt good on his fevered skin. Though his eyes were closed, his weapons were held close at hand and his ears were alert for any sudden sounds. Oracle got up on his chest and began kneading her paws busily into his shirt. “Oh fine, here” he exclaimed, drawing out a cloth covered parcel. Carefully he unwrapped it and broke the loaf of bread in half, giving that portion to Oracle and the rest to himself.
“Aye, I nicked it” he said, smiling at Oracle’s stare, “breakfast time, great feast eh?”
At last the two finished eating and they rested companionably in the morning sun. Finally Numair sighed and spoke, “You’re like an old dog with a bone Oracle I swear. I have no interest in Katalyn, quite the opposite in fact. I was merely trying to be courteous but she would have none of that. For once I was being civil to a lady, aye and don’t you look at me that way Oracle, I will have none of that from you!”
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