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Post by Niphredil on Mar 25, 2004 0:40:39 GMT -5
The next evening a grand feast was prepared in honor of the travellers; a feast which Galadriel and Celeborn both attended (along with a multitude of their people). Food and wine were given in great abundance, and there was much singing and tale-telling. At one point the Hobbits (perhaps after a bit too much of the Elves' strong wine) leaped on to a table and began a rousing chorus, much to the delight of their Elven hosts. After awhile, Galadriel requested an audience with her guests.
"My friends, Celeborn and I have come to the decision--" at this Celeborn tried to not chuckle, knowing that he had had no part in this decision-- "that I will accompany you on your journey to Greenwood to see King Thranduil." This announcement was greeted with mixed reactions.
"Oh, how wonderful!" Violet and Andy said in unison.
"But my Lady," Amrod spoke up, "We could meet danger. Would it be wise for you to go with us?"
"I am afraid that I must agree with Amrod," Tancred said, casting an annoyed look at Amrod. he couldn't believe he, a knight of Arthedain, was actually agreeing with a lowly filthy Ranger! "Our road may be dangerous, and no place for a lady as high as yourself."
"Oh for goodness' sake, you!" Violet said. "If I can make it this far, then she certainly can!" Galadriel laughed gaily at Violet's pluck.
"I agree with Violet!" Andy said. "More than half our company are ladies anyway! I for one would be very happy to have you come with us, Lady Galadriel." He said this with a low-sweeping bow.
"Then it is settled," Galadriel said. "We shall depart three days hence. In the mean time, be merry and enjoy yourselves!" The party-goes went back to their food and the conversation they had been having.
Calen had been speaking with Nev. The two of them, having not seen each other in a few years, had done a lot of catching up over the past few days, talking about the going's on of their homelands and families.
"So how long do you think you will stay in Lorien? Or better yet, do you think you could come with us?" Calen asked Nev hopefully.
"I would very much love to, but I cannot," Nev said. "The time I've spent here has been wonderful, but I'm afraid I have tarried here for too long, and I should return home."
"Oh, yes of course," Calen said, a little disheartened. "When will you be leaving?"
"The day after tomorrow," Nev answered. "I want to get home as soon as possible. But for now, I think I shall turn in for the night. Maybe go for one last walk along Lorien's paths." She and Calen stood and embraced, and Nev bid goodnight to the others. She quickly left the glade the party was being held in, making her way along one of the many paths. After walking for about half an hour, Nev seated herself on the bank of the river. In the moonlight, she could see the faint outlines of swans paddling in the water near the opposite bank. She sighed softly, and began pondering what she would tell her parents when she returned home, without having found her runaway brother. So deep in thought was she that she barely noticed someone tap her shoulder. She looked behind her and there stood Gildor, one of the first Lorien Elves she had encountered.
"Good evening, Nev," he said. "Am I disturbing you?"
"Not at all, Gil, " came Nev's reply. "Actually I am glad you are here. I wanted to see you one last time before I leave."
And I, you, he thought. He smiled and took a seat next to her, trying to act as nonchalant as he could. " Do you think you will ever visit Lorien again?"
"I do not know. I hope so. It's so beautiful here, so peaceful," she said, glancing once again at the pair of swans across the river.
"Yes, it is beautiful," Gildor agreed, though he wasn't looking at the scenery.... He cleared his throat, and changed the subject. "Don't you think it would be fun to accompany those friends of your's on their journey?"
"Oh, it would be exciting, wouldn't it," Nev said, turning her head to look at him. "That would prove to be an interesting mission, what with the interesting companions you would have with you."
"Indeed they are," he said. "Hobbits, and an Ent! Never in all my long life did I expect to meet one of the Onodrim. It is honor to share her company."
"You're making it sound so wonderful!" Nev said, laughing. "And therefore making me want to go even more."
"Then go. And perhaps... perhaps I could go," he said, his voice low. He moved closer to her, his dark eyes meeting hers. Nev's pulse was rasied slightly, and she found herself short of breath.
"I should go. To bed," she added quickly, as she stood up. "Quel du, Gildor."
"Quel esta, Nevwethiel," he said. She smiled at him before hurrying off in the direction of her lodgings, leaving him sitting alone by the river. "Tenna ento lye omenta," he said softly. He laid back, placing his hands under his head, and spent the rest of the night staring at the stars.
Translations:
Onodrim ~ Elvish word for the Ents. Quel du ~ Good night. Quel esta ~ Rest well. Tenna ento lye omenta ~ Until next we meet.
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Post by Athena on Apr 1, 2004 17:51:43 GMT -5
Isotta walked softly through the night, the moonlight playing with the leaves. Each vein was highlighted in silver, this is more beautiful then all the riches in the palace thought Isotta to herself. However, although outwardly she was calm and composed, inwardly she was in turmoil, her thoughts rushing in every direction. Sinking down to the ground, her strange elvish garments fluttering, she rested her slim form upon a fallen tree and thought.
Hello my child
Isotta heard a voice and looked up, and there before her stood the Lady Galadriel. Isotta started, “Oh, I did not see you milady” Isotta stopped for a moment in puzzlement, Galadriel’s voice seemed to come not from any physical means, rather it was heard inside her head. As if sensing her confusion, Galadriel laughed gaily, and despite herself, Isotta joined in the merriment.
“Walk with me” spoke Galadriel, in her musical voice. Isotta instantly complied, and stood up next to the elf lady. After the two walked along in silence for a while, Galadriel once again spoke,
“You seem troubled” She did not continue, allowing Isotta time to compose her own thoughts and get them in some semblance of order.
“Do I” Isotta finally answered, “I know not which way to turn. I feel as if I stand upon the edge of a great precipice, poised to fall. Or that I am caged inside a protective bubble, shielded from all outside contact. To everyone I am treated as a thing made from glass, a pretty bauble, fragile and useless.”
“I think you judge yourself to harshly. Perhaps in your..previous life it was so” Galadriel noticed with amusement at how Isotta started at mention of her life in Minas Tirith. “Indeed, but rest assured your secret is safe with me.”
Isotta turned to look at Galadriel, her blue eyes starting to swim with tears. She tried to speak but found her throat stopped, she turned her head and the two continued along the path.
Presently Galadriel spoke once more, and Isotta turned to face the woman. She seemed old but young, the maiden and the crone. Gracefully Galadriel wiped the tears off Isotta’s cheeks, “You are surrounded by friends. They would do anything rather then suffer at seeing you hurt. Have no fear for yourself, when the time comes to choose you will know.”
“Must I choose?” asked Isotta desperately
Galadriel turned to face Isotta, as Isotta turned away, “Yes I suppose I must. But why must such choices always be so hard”
“You know the answer to that”
“Indeed I do” sighed Isotta, “Lady you know the ways and mysteries. How do I now when to trust, how do I know when to tell others of my past?”
“When the way is right” came the comfortless reply.
Far off in the distance a bird raised its voice in song. Presently it was joined by another and then another until soon a chorus was trilling its simple melody. The dark velvety sky hung over Lothorien like a tapestry, but far off in the distance a pink streak was seen. Dawn was coming and with it brought a new day.
Numair slept lightly upon the ground. He had scorned the bedchambers that the elves offered, wishing instead to stay as far from them as possible.
“Tisn’t natural to sleep in trees” sniffed Numair disdainfully as he casually got up from his sleep. Yawning, he stretched cat-like and turned to face Oracle who was washing herself.
“You seem to be quite enjoying yourself here” he said with amusement, Oracle stretched with pleasure, and purring wrapped her black body around his. “Soft” he whispered to Oracle, and he turned to face the opening of the clearing where faint sounds where coming from. With practiced ease he whipped a long dagger out from his leg sheath. “Who goes there?” he demanded, projecting his voice slightly louder.
From the opening came the dim forms of Isotta and Galadriel, mist wrapped around them and they appeared as fairies of old. Numair blinked with astonishment, and for a short instant he dropped his guard and lowered his dagger slowly.
For a long moment the three forms stared at each other, Galadriel’s face inscrutable, Isotta’s showing her earlier misery, and Numair one of shock moving swiftly to anger. At last Galadriel spoke but Numair could sense no hint of scorn within her words,
“Is it commen for you Men to raise a knife to the Lady of the Woods?”
“Lady, anything is common in these troubled times” answered Numair, Oracle hissed suddently, and batted her claw in the direction of Isotta. Isotta withdrew, her form timid and scared.
“Enough” commanded Galadriel, and she raised her hand imperiously in the direction of Oracle. Numair turned and noticed Oracle shake her head vigorously for an instant, and then turning slink off.
Galadriel blinked, and turning stepped closer to Numair till scarce a hair’s breath distance separated them. Numair turned to look into her eyes and closed his own. He could smell fire burning, the sounds of death, women crying. His arms trembled and from his grasp his dagger dropped to the ground. He felt his knees give way and a sharp pain came from the place where the blade..the cursed blade… No that thinking was treason! Unbidden tears sprang to his eyes and he cursed the elf women and all witches like her. Uneasily and unsteadily he took a step back, and then another. Anything to put some distance between them.
Galadriel to looked uneasy, and her hands came up to her forhead. “What manner of man or beast are you?” she whispered, staring intently at Numair.
“More then you will ever know” snarled Numair, trying to gain his previous self confidence.
Isotta had not failed to mark the exchange, and she came forward brusquely now and watched the swiftly retreating form of Galadriel into the forest.
“What are you doing here?” she hissed
Numair sat down easily and picking his dagger up, proceeded to inspect it with utmost care, ignoring Isotta’s question.
“Answer me!” she said imperiously, “I demand it!”
“Tall words Princess” said Numair casually, “If I remember correctly, you seem to be lacking a certain title. And its my job to make sure you don’t go off lacking your life”
Isotta stared at him sharply for a moment, then her old bravado gone, she opened her mouth to speak, and then fled once more into her compartments and toward the welcoming light of her friends.
Numair continued to casually inspect his dagger, then assured it was clean, he put it back into its sheath. Suddenly a pricking of his throat alerted him and he instantly froze. Katalyn laughed easily but something else belied her tone, not to mention her knife that was pricking his neck.
“Milady?” he asked, attempting to turn around casually, out of the corner of his eye he spotted Oracle lounging about easily watching the events, “traitor he hissed”
“No, good cat” spoke Katalyn, “Came right to me”
“And what is it that you wished to see me about?” asked Numair
Katalyn withdrew her dagger and sat down across from Numair, “our previous argument was a simple misunderstanding that should have no impact on our friendship”
“Friendship?” asked Numair cautiously
“Nothing more and nothing less” she assured him, “but it is nice to know there is another soul in this humorless land amongst such people in our company”
“Indeed it is” responded Numair, smiling but his eyes glinting and unchanged. Oracle leapt to her customary spot on his shoulder.
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Aladrien
Mate
"I love this guy. He's crazy!"
Posts: 47
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Post by Aladrien on Apr 4, 2004 21:55:37 GMT -5
Dawn came slowly. The sun rising through the trees cast long shadows across the ground and across the company. They all stirred every now and again, but they stayed asleep as long as possible. The day was going to be long and tiring; no one wanted to be the first to admit they were awake and ready to go. Birds chirped from afar and several elves could be heard passing by to check up on the group. It was nice to know they were in safe hands.
Arratil breathed in the sweet scent of the trees around him. The corners of his mouth curved into a rested smile and his eyes slit open. He looked left and right, but the company slept peacefully. It must be still early, he thought to himself. I wonder where Imthoron slept last night. He slowly drew back his bedroll and stretched. The morning air was warm and damp from the dew on the leaves.
Arratil stood, rolling down his pants that had slid up to his upper calves during the night. He tied up the top half of his undershirt and quickly dressed while the rest slept. "Imthoron," he whispered, trying not to wake the rest.
A tree shifted and two eyes appeared. "Arratil, you're awake," the entling stretched her branched and opened her leaves. "Lovely morning, isn't it?"
"A lovely morning to part, indeed," Arratil smiled sleepily. He noted, "A much needed rest."
Imthoron nodded in agreement and moved toward her friend.
The rest of the company awoke within minutes and soon they were dressed, packed and nearly ready to leave. Sorrow filled their hearts; many did not want to part with this lovely land. Though, they were all rested and ready for the journey ahead.
*****
Celeborn and his Lady Galadriel met the fellowship at the edge of the wood, next to a babbling stream that seemed to be flowing with a silver twine. Her hand rested on his crooked arm and a smile appeared on both of their faces. "We have must enjoyed your stay here in the Wood of Lorien," Celeborn began.
"We hope that you will accept these gifts as tokens of our gratitude and for your long journey here. We wish you the best of luck in the journey forth," Galadriel flicked her hand, signaling several elves forward, bearing gifts for the company.
"For you, Master Arratil of the Land, I give you this sword to help you slay your enemy with precision and so that you will always remember the time we spent together," Galadriel took the sword and sheath into her own hands.
Arratil's eyes glistened on the sword he immediately named Gem. Lowering his head, he knelt down on both knees. He did not deserve to be any taller than the Lady and her companion. His eyes moistened with joy as the Lady Galadriel lifted his chin with her free hand.
"Never think yourself lower than anyone, Arratil," she smiled and whispered these words. "Have confidence, my child."
Arratil took these words to heart and stood bravely. He took the sword and fastened it to his waste after removing his old sword. "Thank you, m’Lady. I will dispose of this stick I once called a sword." He took a step back and allowed the bearing of the gifts to carry on.
(Please, allow time for the other role-players to write about their gifts before leaving the Wood.)
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Post by Athena on Apr 5, 2004 17:55:45 GMT -5
Numair hung towards the back of the group, Oracle on his shoulder. He paid less attention to the proceedings of the gifts then he did to Kat. He continually craned his neck in an effort to see her, and then hide when she looked his way.
Far from being his customry self, he felt cranky and out of sorts. Up ahead, he heard his name being called.
"And for you Master Numair, I to have something"
Numair looked puzzled at Oracle. His lips pulling his mouth into a slight crooked smile.
Slouching, he walked casually up to Galadriel and waited. He noticed several of the elves looked shocked at the apparent disrespect he showed their Lady.
"And for you, I give this" said Galadriel softly, her eyes peering deeply at his. Instantly he looked down, looked anywhere but at those age less eyes.
The gift she held in his hand was a dagger. It was small, shaped like a leaf, looked sharp and deadly. Numair grinned to himself, perfect. With ironic respect, he bowed his head slightly and gently took the dagger. He then twisted it and flung it into the air, watching the light play upon it's silver engravings.
He caught it easily, and then slid it smoothly into a small sheath he had in his boot. Then feeling as if a gift of this magnitude deserved some manner of thanks, he spoke,
"Tis indeed a great and wondrous gift..milady" he added the last as almost a forethough. He then peered at the trees enterlaced over head. A long silence ensued and he waited, for what he did not know. He peered at the company, most of them appeared to be waiting for him to speak. Isotta stood towards the front, near the knight, Numair noted. Her fiery red hair caught the sun and formed a halo and for an instant Numair seemed to understand why Tancred was so engrossed into her.
Oracle's claws dug deep into his shoulder, at last he recalled himself and murmered "thank you" and started to stalk away in contempt, but Galadriel's cool hand upon his shoulder stopped him.
"Use it in good health" she murmered, her blue eyes peering vividly into his twany ones. She then leaned forward and he felt himself tied to the ground. Softly, soft as a butterfly, she planted a light kiss upon his forehead. Long after she had left to give gifts to the others, he could still feel the imprint of the kiss and the cool rush of air.
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Aladrien
Mate
"I love this guy. He's crazy!"
Posts: 47
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Post by Aladrien on Apr 8, 2004 23:55:57 GMT -5
"Would Imthoron the Entling please stand forward?" the Lady Galadriel held a fair-sized scroll in her delicate hands.
Imthoron did as she was told and took a step infront of the rest of the company. She blushed shyly to be the centre of attention, but she was anxious to know what her gift was. She had watched Arratil and Nuramir recieve their gifts and was quite happy for them.
"Imthoron, I give you this scroll as a token of our appreciation for your stay. Please, accept this map to Fangorn so that you will one day be able to find your way back home to the other ents," Galadriel handed off the scroll to Arratil who held Imthoron's gift for her.
"Thank you so much, Galadriel. You are too kind!" Imthoron was overjoyed and she stepped back out of the spotlight.
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Post by tancred on Apr 10, 2004 10:54:37 GMT -5
Celeborn and Galadriel beckoned Tancred forward. The Lady spoke, "Sir Tancred, Knight of Arthedain, our gift to you will serve you well in the lands you are venturing to now, and even ones that you may find yourself in far into the future." She held aloft a small disk. A silver broach with a small, faceted garnet in the middle. Carved into the silver and around the garnet were deep and dark runes. "Those are ancient runes of Doriath," explained Galadriel. "Carved by Daeron the Minstrel himself. They mark you as an Elf Friend. Should you be in any realm where Elves dwell, you need not fear them, nor fear not recieving help from them."
"A gracious and effective gift for the leader of the company," said Celeborn.
Tancred looked uncomfortably to the ground, and then to his companions. "Is something wrong, Tancred," asked Galadriel.
"We have no leader of our company," the knight sheepishly replied.
Celeborn looked entirely shocked. "The percieved tone was that it was not needed," Tancred tried to explain. "Or at least that it was not welcome. So, one was never designated."
"Interesting," mused Celeborn. "Still, I must insist upon one being designated now. If only for the simple fact that my beloved wife is accompanying you on this journey to Greenwood, and there should be someone in charge. Someone who knows the importance of the mission, yet knows that even more important is protecting the Lady of the Wood."
"Who would that be," asked Galadriel.
"You will have to pardon me my concern as a worried husband," said Celeborn. "I will name the leader. I will be sending some of my own guards to personally guard the Lady. They are loyal, and know the way to Thranduil's realm. The one in charge of them is Gildor, a border guard all of you have already met. I suggest he be leader of your company. I wish it so."
"You will find no objections from me, my Lord," said Tancred with a bow. The rest of the company did not raise any either (at least any that could be heard or sensed).
"Very well," said Celeborn, feeling much happier and relieved. "Pardon the interruption. Let us now continue with the parting gifts."
Tancred bowed again. After a smile from Galadriel, he turned again, and rejoined the others. The Lord and Lady then called forth their next guest....
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Post by Niphredil on Apr 10, 2004 12:12:47 GMT -5
Next, Galadriel turned to the Hobbits, Andy and Violet. First she looked at little Violet. " Dear Violet, my gift to you is this," she held up a small box inlaid with tiny silver leaves and flowers, and on a delicate but incredibly strong silver chain. "In this box is a medicine in the form of a powder. Mix a small amount with water and let someone drink it, and it will alleviate and even cure their ills." Galadriel placed the necklace over Violet's head. " Do you really think we will have need of medicine, Lady?" Andy asked, his voice quavering. " Do not be troubled, Andy," Galadriel said, with a comforting smile. "Our road is a long one; who knows when someone may get a tummy-ache from too much food or drink." "Well, I certainly wouldn't," Andy mumbled. Galadriel said, "Andy, to you I give this: a long knife, small yet large enough to be a sword for you." She handed him the knife, the sheath of which was inlaid with silver leaf patterns, similar to those on the little box given to Violet. "Oh, thank you, My Lady!" Andy said happily as he received his new "sword." Galadriel smiled at him, and turned to the next person who was to receive a gift. ~**~**~**~**~ Nevwethiel sang quietly to herself as she rode along on her horse. She had been gone from Lorien only a day, and already she missed it greatly. She smiled thoughtfully to herself as she recalled the wonderful days she had spent there. She was jolted out of her thoughts, though, when her horse stopped abruptly and would go no further. "Karnil? What is it you silly horse?" she said, patting the horse's neck. Suddenly a feeling of dread and fear came over her, but she did not know why. Karnil reared up. "Easy, boy!" Nev commanded. "Easy." Karnil settled down a bit, but he was still quite jumpy. Nev dismounted and led Karnil until they were some distance off the road, and then she stayed there, waiting, until the fearful feeling had passed. When it finally did pass, the sun was setting. She made up her mind to stay where she was for the night, and then make for Lorien again in the morning.
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Post by Mrs Dan Hawkins on Apr 13, 2004 8:56:49 GMT -5
Calen vaugly watched the other members of the company recive gifts and half listened for her mind was elsewhere, home to be exact.She realised with joy that she would be seeing her family sooner than she thought, her name being called jolted her back to the present.She looked down at various members looks of confusion over where she was and with a chuckle she jumped down from the oak she was sat in.She landed and then straightened before bowing towards Galadriel and Celeborn.
"For you Lady Calen of Mirkwood , i have this"
Galadriel handed Calen a small stone perfectly smoothed with runes carved around the edge, made of the lightest moonstone.Calen gaped at it.
"it will help you controlled your skills which i believe you will need on this journey"
"thank you my lady" Calen whispered not taking her eyes off her gift
Galadreil smiled in return and called Caran forward.
"For you Caran of Lothlorien, i have these" She handed him a pair of knives with intractate , delacate patterens of leaves and Elvish along the blades. " and a stern order to come home more often"
Caran laughed "thank you my lady and i will" he replied with a smile
*************
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Post by Daughter of Almost-Evil on Apr 17, 2004 12:39:18 GMT -5
Aspen was delighted that the company was to be accompanied by Lady Galadriel. As she thought about the tales she would have to tell when she got back to Rivendell, the young elf was plucked from the daydream as she was called to recieve her gift.
Aspen approached Galadriel, wondering what she would recieve.
"Aspen of Rivendell, I give you this." Said the Lady of the Wood softly, as she handed over a small folded bundle. As Aspen unfolded it she found that it was not only a gown, but one she had dreamt about, she had heard how much care and devotion was put into these. She was filled with pride as she thanked Galadriel and dissapeared into the crowd of elves, men, hobbits and an ent.
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Post by Athena on Apr 18, 2004 1:39:22 GMT -5
Galadriel once more smiled her mysterious smile and several of those assembled there wondered who she would call for next.
Galadriel's gaze fell upon the various members of the company, and at last stopped upon Isotta's pale face framed by her brilliant hair.
"Me?" breathed Isotta, blue eyes wide. Sensing the stupidity of her question, she flushed and slowly walked forward, at last stopping before Lady Galadriel.
"I labored long and hard over your gift Isotta. For what could one give such a lady as you who has jewelry and finery to spare"
Isotta kept her eyes downcast, and she muttered something under her breath, the back of her neck red. Galadriel calmly pretened not to notice it.
"But at last I came to this"
Galadriel slipped into Isotta's hand a small oval piece of blue crystal. It's depths cloudy. A small silver chain was attatched, the chain so tiny that only a glint of silver showed it's location.
Isotta bowed her head and Galadriel gracefuly slipped the stone around her neck. Isotta could feel the cool, heavy weight of it settle. With one hand, she held up the stone wonderingly, gazing at the light peirce through it.
"Tis indeed a thing of remarkable beauty my Lady" said Isotta, with a small curstey.
"It's not just for show, look closely"
Isotta continued to peer into the small stone. With a jolt she seemed to see a face beginning to appear, the face of her father and of her brother. Both of whom appeared to be in a bit of an argument. As if from far away, their voices came tinny to her ears.
"I'm telling you she's fine"
"Aye and who did you put to watch her? You couldn't use an imperial guard could you?"
"I told you..."
"I don't care about your reasons, and I don't care about her reasons. I want her found and brought..."
Isotta had heard enough, shaken she looked away from the crystal and waited for the revolving shapes and echos to stop coming to her.
Oddly, the rest of the company seemed to have seen or heard nothing. Isotta looked deeply at the crystal once more.
"It will show you those dearest to you. May it be a comfort to you when all other's are gone" came the soft voice of Galadriel.
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Post by tancred on Apr 26, 2004 0:55:46 GMT -5
Celeborn and Galadriel called forth Amrod. The Lady said, "Amrod, the life of a Ranger of the wild is not an easy one. It is frought with loneliness, and even the most skilled may find themselves lost from time to time. As to the becoming lost, we give you this." Celeborn held aloft a great bow, like to the kind the Elves of Lorien themselves carried. A quiver of arrows came with it.
Celeborn said, "The grip of the bow is made from the bones of a stag. Yet there is a clear stone set into it. And in that clear stone is a yet smaller stone, chipped in the form of an arrow. If you hold the bow with the wood facing skywards and the string facing earthwards, the arrow stone will always point to the true West. West because that is where all Elves hope to be one day. It is a special direction and thought to us. Thus, may you never become lost."
Galadriel spoke again, "And as to the loneliness, we can perhaps not help you much. Only say I this: stay true to your companions, and you will never be alone. A bond you already have with all of them, yet they could use some strengthening." She glanced briefly at Tancred. "Put aside all differences, real and percieved, between Rangers and Knights. You both may need each others' help one day."
Amrod bowed, and rejoined his companions.
Galadriel smiled upon Aranel. The Elf maiden blushed, and slowly stumbled to the Lord and Lady of the Wood. "Young Aranel," said Galadriel, almost laughing. "You are the stable mistress for Rivendell, and perform your job both well and humbly. You deem yourself rather unimportant, particularly in the company of so many great Elf lords and ladies that dwell in Imladris. I assure you, it is not so. All I have spoken to hold you in high regard. That great and bright refuge of Elvendom would be noticeably less so without you. You find your worth in your friends, have come to see your companions as your friends, and would feel both sad and crushed in esteem without them. The bonds of friendship are indeed important. Yet, in time, you will learn to find worth in and of yourself. Until that time comes, may you never be parted from your companions. In order to aid this, I give you three stones. My eldest brother, Finrod Felagund discovered these when he was delving out his once mighty realm of Nargathrond. In the deepest caves could these stones be found. Finrod discovered that when each stone was nigh each of the others, it remained an intense and pulsating red in color. The further away, the less crimson, and the pulses were slow and few and far between. This will aid you in keeping track of your friends should you be separated. The stone will pulse more swiftly and grow more red, the closer you become."
Aranel blushed profusely, accepting the gifts, and doubting the Lady's word that she was all that important. She curtsied, and rejoined her friends.
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Post by Lady Disdain on May 12, 2004 14:28:31 GMT -5
Katalyn shifted her weight slightly and wondered just how much longer this was going to take. If she never dealt with another ceremony, it would be too soon. Didn't the elves ever just do something without making a big production out of it? It was llike something out of one of the stories Mother Thalia used to tell. Everyone said she was crazy, but she told a decent story. Wonder if they'll give me a cordial made from the juice of the fireflowers? she thought smirking.
Nothing so dramatic, child.
Katalyn didn't bother masking her startled reaction, since as the lady was in her head no mask could serve its purpose. She met the gaze of the Lady of Lorien, and was chilled as usual by the expression on the elf's face. Kat couldn't understand why the others were so worried about her safety. The Lady of Lorien was the single most impressive being she had ever seen, and the idea that she needed a guardian was laughable.
The elf smiled, presumably reading her thoughts again thought Kat, who resented it.
Take care child. Your walls may keep out enemies, but they will also keep out friends. Remember, no wall is inpenetrable - better to have some friends with you should an enemy bring them down.
Kat's eyes narrowed but she refrained from any distinct response. Galadrial smiled again and spoke - this time aloud.
"And for you Katalyn," she said simply, indicating a carved sword that for all its ornamentation seemed practical enough.
Katalyn kept her reply as minimal, and moved back to the rear of the group. Sensing eyes on her she shot a look to the right, but whomever it was had averted their glance.
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Post by ~Kawaii~ on May 12, 2004 18:46:49 GMT -5
Mynarwen was the last to recieve her gift from the lady Galadriel. This was the first time she had seen the group since they had entered Lorien, she wasn't interested in the group, and only there to do her duty. When she was not needed she wasn't there.
Galadriel turned to face the Elf maiden and Myna seemed to be the only member of the group who was not shocked or amazed by what she saw. They stood looking at each other without words for a while, the blank looks on their faces leaving most of the group confused... all bar those who did not notice, and those who did not care.
After what seemed like an age to those who were watching, Galadriel handed Myna an object wrapped in black cloth. Myna took the gift and nodded in acknowledgment. Galadriel turned and went back to her husband.
"What did she say?" Aspen whispered.
"She said nothing" Myna replied coldly, "And she gave me nothing. As I see that was the next question upon your lips, and before you ask, it meant nothing."
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Post by Niphredil on May 13, 2004 19:13:22 GMT -5
Now that the gifts had all been given and received, the time had finally come for the company to depart from Lorien. The majority of the group went to their respective horses which stood waiting at the foot of the largest mellyrn of Caras Galadhon; Galadriel, however, took Celeborn aside that she might speak with him privately.
"My husband, why do you insist that there be a leader who 'knows the importance of this mission'? I have no doubt that each of these beings know how important it is; they would not be here if Elrond did not believe that they could do this task. Besides, they have come this far without incident."
"But--"
"And how do you dare to insist that the gaurds be there to protect me?" Galadriel asked. "I have lived more years on Middle Earth than all of those gaurds put together, and in those years I have seen and done much. Am I not a powerful Elven Queen? Keeper of Nenya, the Ring of Adament?"
"But most of them are not warriors, and if there were a battle they would fall," Celeborn said. "They could not protect you."
"I require no protection," Galadriel said in a chilling tone. "Celeborn, it is one thing for you to doubt their capabilities; it is an entirely different thing for you to doubt -- or rather, disregard -- mine."
"Forgive me my presumptuousness and haste, melamin," Celeborn said. "It is as though what is to come in the near future is covered by a thick fog, and I cannot see it. I fear for you."
"What will happen in the future will happen," Galadriel said gravely. "All of the gaurds in Middle Earth could not change that." An attendant came cautiously forward bearing the Lady's riding cloak; with a nod, Galadriel bid her come forward. The attendant fastened Galadriel's cloak about her, bowed, and left as quickly and quietly as she had come. Galadriel again faced Celeborn, and said, "Namaarie."
With that final word, Galadriel turned away from her husband and joined the rest of the company. She effortlessly mounted her horse, a beautiful and graceful white mare.
Gildor, the march-gaurd who had been elected unanimously by Celeborn to be leader, rode up on his horse, followed by two other gaurds. The three gaurds held their right arms over their chests and inclined their heads to Galadriel in salutation, and she in turn inclined her head slightly to them.
"Our journey out of Lorien will be a short one," Gildor said, speaking to the whole group. "It will only take us a few hours. When we arrive at the borders of Lorien and break for lunch, we can disuss where we will be going from there."
"I think we should discuss it now," Tancred said. "I think everyone should know now what possible dangers we are riding into, and I would advise you to--"
"I did not ask for what you think or for advice on how to lead this outfit, child," Gildor said condscendingly.
"Why talk about dangers when we are safe within the borders of Lorien, and especially when we already talked about them in Rivendell?" Violet piped up. "None of us are in the dark about where we're going; we can worry about those things when we come to them."
"Thank you, Violet," Gildor said, "for speaking so eloquently." In response, Violet gave him a bright smile.
"You're going to let her interrupt but I can't--" Tancred said, but he stopped talking when he saw the exasperated look upon Gildor's face.
Without another word, Gildor began to ride forth, Galadriel beside him, the rest of the company following in pairs, and the two other gaurds coming last.
Under any other circumstance, Gildor would have been quite happy to journey up to Mirkwood. But before he had been told that he was to go with Galadriel and this motley group to Mirkwood (let alone that he would have to lead them), he had been organizing another hunting party, one that would go south, near Rohan. He had been hoping that he could make a small detour to a certain village where lived a certain lady that had quite stolen his affections. But with these new developments it became clear that he would not be able to see this certain lady again for some time, if ever.
Now here he was, riding in the direction opposite of where he wanted to go. For this (and also for some child he had just met having the nerve to think Gil needed advice about leadership), he was not in the best of moods.
Do not be disheartened, Gildor, said a voice in his head, yet the voice was not his. Your path and her's will meet again.
He knew that it was Galadriel who heard his thoughts, and her words comforted him. The group rode on in comfortable silence, edging ever closer to the borders of Lorien.
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Post by tancred on May 14, 2004 11:26:13 GMT -5
The company rode under the last trees of Lorien. Suddenly, flat and treeless land opened up before them. It was a drastic change; eyes adjusted to the unbroken sunlight, and riders no longer had to worry about low tree branches, and so were able to sit erect in the saddle.
All save one. Isotta noticed that Tancred was still slouched in his saddle. He had said nothing for some time, and he almost seemed to frown. Isotta placed her hand gently upon Tancred's arm. "Is there something wrong," she asked.
The knight mumbled something inaudible. Yet, Isotta was a perceptive person, and smiled as she asked, "Perhaps you are feeling a bit down due to Gildor's terse words to you earlier?"
Tancred's eyes widened, as he turned to Isotta. "You noticed his tone also," he inquired. The maiden shook her head. "At least I am not the only one," continued Tancred. "I am sorry. I just do not take rebukes well. Even in small matters. Guilty conscience or feeling of inadequacy or something along those lines."
Isotta giggled to herself silently. "So the war-hardened knight has a softer side," she asked. Tancred blushed. "I would not worry so much," Isotta said in a comforting manner. "I think much is troubling our good Elven guard. Part of me thinks that maybe he saw your suggestions as a questioning of his authority as leader of the company, yet I deem there is more to it. There seems to be much on his mind."
"Questioning his authority," mused Tancred. "That was not my purpose at all. Far from it! Given the gravity of our mission and of the lady travelling with us, I merely thought to make a suggestion for the good of the whole company. I desire no leadership; we all have some responsibility to the group and to the mission, yet that is a greater burden I would not wish on anyone."
Isotta smiled, "Then worry not, my good sir. Gildor will realize that in time, if he does not already. As I said, he is more than likely troubled with other things. And so, let us also do--our minds on other things. Look! Is this not the mighty Anduin Vale a few leagues in front of us? I am in awe at its beauty."
"As am I," said Tancred, looking nowhere near the Anduin River, but rather at the serene beauty next to him.
Galadriel rode quietly in the middle of the group; her pace had slowed down, as she drifted into thought. She wished she and Celeborn had parted in a warmer fashion. They were not prone to showing great amounts of emotion in sight of others, yet this parting was almost cold. She shivered, as a physical cold crept over her. Galadriel pulled her cloak about her tighter, and draped her hood over her head. She sighed, and continued on after the others. *****************
At that moment, a large black bird fluttered down from the sky, and onto the ground. It watched the strange company that passed by before its eyes, took everything in, and then flew off eastward.
Hours later, and it allighted once again. Yet this was not the ground nor any tree branch or other normal perch for a bird. It was the thin, taught, and yet strong shoulder of Khamul. The Nazgul listened as the crebain chirped and cawwed its news.
"It is high time that group finally left Lothlorien," hissed Khamul. "Whatever kept them so long? A lazy member of their company, no doubt. The others kept waiting while one dragged their boots."
Khamul did not know the real reason for the unexpected delay, but it did not matter now. He was pleased. The princess of Gondor was still with the company, and she was his prime goal. Soon, she would be in his clutches.
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