Varda
Vala, Council
Posts: 1,041
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Post by Varda on Mar 25, 2012 18:10:24 GMT -5
Fainan:
Legolas' eyes hooded uncharacteristically at the mention of the ring. "You have indeed found a danger to Mirkwood, and with unfortunate timing. I have business that must be taken care of that will take me away for some time, or I would lead an investigation myself. This must be reported to King Thranduil, but for now we need to consult with the wisdom of Lord Elrond. Among you, however, I recognize a lore-master of our own. Lady Meren, have you light to shed on these matters?"
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Post by Indis on Mar 25, 2012 19:03:09 GMT -5
Meren
Meren gave a brief bow to the prince and smiled slightly at him. "Well, I did not see the ring, but it is clearly not a good sign, and we would do well to research the disposition of the known rings of power." As for the sword, the runes are not entirely familiar to me, but they appear to be based on the Cirth, and apparently an elven variant rather than a dwarven one, which suggests considerable antiquity for the letters, at least. Like the speech of the Black Land, which uses (or shall I say abuses) Tengwar, these are used for a non-elven language that may be a variant of the same tongue. I have little familiarity with it in any form; just from the sound of it as the letters are pronounced, it is certainly unpleasant to the ear."
The weapon itself is unremarkable except for the inscription and for its aura. It is the worse for me that I have had a fair amount of contact with that fell thing, and I can say with some certainty that it has been ensorcelled in some way that is reminiscent of the miasma that comes from the south of our forest. It managed to depress most of us during the trip, despite my wrapping it well to block its emanations, and worse, it began to corrupt our dwarven companion, though he appears to be recovered. Nevertheless, we have been keeping it out of his sight and hands."
In any event, I request your permission to consult with the lore-masters of Imladris, including those of high rank, if it should prove necessary to obtain the information we need not only to deal with the sword but also whatever may await in Angmar. Imladris and its knowledge offer an opportunity not to be wasted."
She looked hopefully at Legolas.
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Varda
Vala, Council
Posts: 1,041
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Post by Varda on Mar 25, 2012 19:43:45 GMT -5
Fainan:
Legolas said, "It is time that we all went to see Lord Elrond. We have much that he will need to consider. Be so kind as to join me?" He strode briskly out of the garden, not really watching to see if they had accepted his invitation.
Fainan made a brief bow as he went past, wanting to smack her own head for not doing so on first meeting, and followed. So, they were to meet the fabled Lord Elrond. She tried to remember everything she'd been taught about the ancient wonder and wished she had listened more closely. He had refused the High Kingship of the Noldor formally at least, although all the Noldor seem to have clustered around him anyway and called him lord. Current information came to him constantly from the multiple races that passed through Imladris. He was possibly the greatest lore-master and healer in all Middle-earth, just the one who might be able to help them.
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Varda
Vala, Council
Posts: 1,041
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Post by Varda on Mar 25, 2012 20:13:54 GMT -5
Fainan:
Legolas went straight to the great library and there stood the great Elrond himself, high on a ladder struggling carefully with a delicate book that seemed to be too tightly jammed into the shelf against the wooden edge. It came loose suddenly and he barely caught it with his other hand. The ladder teetered but he leaned forward bringing it back in place.
Legolas had reached the ladder within seconds of seeing the situation. "Nice catch," he said cheerfully.
"Oh, it's you. Who are all these people you've brought?" Elrond managed to look dignified even climbing down a ladder.
Legolas made introductions, as far as he was able, letting the visitors supply their own names. "They have quite a story to tell of what they've seen in the Great Wood." He summarized briefly and said, "Perhaps they have more to add?"
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Post by Indis on Mar 26, 2012 12:17:38 GMT -5
Meren:
Events had moved much faster than Meren had anticipated. Within a few hours of arrival in Imladris, they were to meet its fabled Master! With mixed emotions--excited anticipation of the meeting and fear that she would in some way bring shame to herself and her kinfolk--she followed Legolas as he strode toward the library, looking about her as much as she could as she matched the prince's pace. The library itself was a place of wonder, filled with riches she hoped to explore soon. At the sight of the Master himself seeking and caring for a volume and his informal but welcoming response to her prince, she felt far more at ease at the thought of interacting with him. Surely he would sympathize with her eagerness to learn. With that thought, she waited for her turn to speak.
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Post by arienv on Mar 28, 2012 6:43:28 GMT -5
Frali:
Frali gave his face a short splash and changed into clean clothes while the friendly Noldo waited outside his room to take him to see Gloin and Gimli. With a smile and polite nod he adressed his guiide: "I am ready, let us go to see my kinsmen."
The Elf nodded and led him to one of the many alcoves in the garden of Imladris where two dwarves where in a lively conversation. "Master Gimli, Master Gloin, here is a kinsman who wishes to see you." With a bow to all three dwarves the guide retreated politely.
"Frali, my lad this is a pleasant surprise!"Gloin exclaimed and gave the young dwarf a warm hug while Gimli beamed at him and took his turn in hugging when his father let go of Frali. He laughed in return and a happiness filled his heart that he had not known since the journey from Erebor had begun. "By Durin's beard, it is good to see you! As it would seem I am here to bring an update on the situation in Erebor which is still the same as when you left - at least it was at my departure. That is as far as the messenger of Mordor is concerned. " Frali's face sobered up. "As far as attacks from the orcs go and fell creatures turning up around the lonely mountain goes they have increased and the road through Mirkwood has grown more dangerous"
With that Frali launched into a full report of their journey only leaving out his plunge into the enchanted river on their first attempt to cross it. That was too embarrassing to mention even to his kinsmen. Instead he enhanced his part in the fights against the spiders and the orcs, making only a short mention of the orcish sword that seemed to have vanished for now. Still, the regret of losing it somehow crept in Frali's voice.
Gloin looked at his young relation and just said: "I understand your wish to keep it as a token of triumph and bounty, lad, but I am sure you can pick up many better things in the days to come. Apart from that orcish craftmanship is poor - if you need new weapons I am sure Lord Elrond has enough in stock or maybe even can get something crafted for a warrior of your skill. There is no workmanship better to be found in Middlearth than the one here in Rivendell."
Frali looked at Gloin, not quite trusting his ears. "Then you think I have done well during this journey? Not made a fool of myself?"
Indignantly the older dwarf shook his head. "Of course not, young fool! You have shown these Silvan folks that you are no coward and know how to handle an axe and sword! And your throwing axes - not many would have remembered to collect them after a fight, so you have shown a clear head and sense of practicality. And I know you well enough, Frali, to know you would have shown no impoliteness towards any of your companions, or have you, maybe in anger by accident?"
Frali shook his head and blushed. "See then - I see no shame in anything you have said and done, lad, just be proud to be one of Durin's folk and one with skill and courage. " Gloin looked fondly at his young kinsman and Gimli nodded in agreement. He added: "These elves can seem a bit intimidating and distant at first but believe me, lad, they are not so bad and can take their stand. Just remind them that you are one of Durin's children and let the past not come in between you and your companions."
Thus the three dwarves spent time in pleasant conversation and the afternoon went by.
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Eonwë
Vala, Council
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Post by Eonwë on May 12, 2012 4:06:55 GMT -5
Elrond frowned for a brief moment at the book in his hands, and called over another elf. He passed the book to this elf and whispered something quietly to him. The elf bowed and turned away as Elrond’s “Hantal, Erestor” followed. The doors to the library were closed behind him. The library now empty but for the five of them, Elrond motioned to a table nearby, devoid of books or scrolls.
“These then are the elves who accompanied Auros from Mirkwood? I understand a Dwarf was also among your company. What of him? And there was another besides?” Being informed Frali had gone to speak with his own people, Elrond nodded. Returning to the party’s tale, he said in a low voice, “The Rings of Power are not objects of light conversation, even in Imladris. Take care in discussing them. I have ensured we will not be interrupted, so for now you may speak openly of your concerns in this matter, and of your journey.”
Elrond listened as they spoke of the journey through Mirkwood and back, the encounter with Calaron, the finding of the sword and the discovery of its unusual properties, and of the mission with which Thranduil charged them. At the end, Elrond was silent for a moment, considering these tidings.
“Of the Rings of Power,” he started slowly, “I can tell you no more than you may already know. As I have said, this is not a light matter to discuss. However,…” Elrond rose from his seat, walked over to a shelf – one that did not require a ladder to reach – and, gliding his finger along the spines, found a bound volume and slid it from its place. He set the volume in front of Meren. “This will tell you all of which it is permitted to speak on this matter.” Walking to another shelf, he withdrew another bound volume, somewhat thicker than the previous, and set it in the center of the table. Placing his hand on it and looking at Calion, he said, “This volume contains descriptions of conditions like that you speak of in your brother, afflicting both Quendi and Atani. Included among these conditions are sufferings from dealing with the Houseless, and a condition seen in some elves of the First Age, who, being captured by the first Dark Lord, were released by him to sow mistrust among the Eldar. Something in here may be of use to you.”
Raising his hand from the book, he added, “Neither of these volumes contains techniques, only observations and consequences. To seek to utilize the arts of the Enemy is folly, a lesson learned all too often through hardship.”
Taking his seat once more, Elrond addressed the group. “For now, the hour is not good for your departure. As you know, I have sent scouts to gather tidings. Not all have returned, and until they have, any trek would be unwise. In the meantime, the hospitality of my house is yours. You are free to take in the beauty of Imladris, or make use of my library to aid you in your coming tasks. I will send for you once it is safe for your departure, and we may consider your tasks with greater clarity. I will give them more thought in the meantime.”
Observing the time, Elrond rose from his seat. “I am afraid there are matters to which I must attend. Before I go, is there anything else you wish to discuss? If you are uncomfortable with the orc-sword, I can have one of the smiths of my house take it into his keeping. I am afraid you will find most of those learned and practiced in such lore occupied by other tasks at this time. Otherwise, I would encourage you to handle it as little as you may, and do not bring it forth from your chamber until I call for you.”
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Varda
Vala, Council
Posts: 1,041
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Post by Varda on May 12, 2012 11:53:11 GMT -5
Fainan:
Fidgeting uncomfortably, Fainan brought herself to speak. Her tone was deferential, for this was one of, perhaps even the greatest of all living elves. Who was she to disagree in any fashion?
Who was she? She was a scout of Thranduil in service to the Greenwood, mirky though it might be currently.
"Lord Elrond," and her voice managed not to squeak. "Thranduil, our king, did not send us to take our ease in the wonder of your house but to be about the chase. The longer we wait, the farther ahead our target travels, until he may go to ground in the ruins of Angmar and become almost impossible to deal with except on his terms. I doubt we would find them acceptable."
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Eonwë
Vala, Council
Vala and proud member of the Valar Guild. A quarter century of Tolkien fun.
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Post by Eonwë on May 12, 2012 15:12:18 GMT -5
"Delays in one's mission are never easy to accept," Elrond said, "but do not think of this time as wasted. The realm of Angmar fell long ago, but the malice of the Enemy lives on there. Many leagues yet lay between you and your destination, and they are no less treacherous. Take this reprieve to gather your strength for the road ahead, and to prepare yourselves for what must be done. Learn what you may of what you seek,.. this 'Crooked Staff,' or at least of signs that may point you in its direction, and how to dispose of it when you have it. It would be better to meet your foe prepared with this knowledge."
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Varda
Vala, Council
Posts: 1,041
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Post by Varda on May 12, 2012 21:48:39 GMT -5
Fainan:
"You are right, of course," Fainan said, and stepped back. Just how fast could they learn what was necessary? Maybe she could at least drag materials to Meren as fast as the lore-master pointed at them.
"Lady Meren, you have but to ask and I will hunt down whatever books or materials you need," she said with a low intensity.
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Post by Indis on May 13, 2012 7:45:40 GMT -5
Meren
In spite of the awe she felt in the presence of the fabled Herald of Gil-Galad, Master of Imladris, that rendered her near speechless, Meren cleared her throat to signal that she had something to say. Elrond turned to her with a reassuring smile.
"Hir Elrond, I thank you in advance for all we shall learn in this lovely place and its blessings to fea and hroa. With respect to the sword, I should be happy to entrust it to one of your smiths who might be knowledgable about such ensorcelled things, both to keep it out of the way of our dwarven companion--lest he suffer a relapse--and to gain any further information, however great or small, that the smith could provide."
She paused a moment as if to gather her courage then continued, "And with your permission, I would be grateful for the opportunity to consult from time to time with such members of your household who might add to the knowledge to be found in your library. Always with respect for their priorities, of course." She looked eagerly at the volume that had been placed before her and at the shelves and cabinets that surrounded her, then at the Master of Imladris, her features radiant with hope and enthusiasm for her task.
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Eonwë
Vala, Council
Vala and proud member of the Valar Guild. A quarter century of Tolkien fun.
Posts: 1,323
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Post by Eonwë on May 19, 2012 4:39:14 GMT -5
Elrond nodded. "If any of them find time from their duties and if they wish to help you, you are free to seek their aid."
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ArPharazon
Member
King of the Land of the Star
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Post by ArPharazon on May 19, 2012 8:52:48 GMT -5
Calion:
Giving a swift bow, Calion smiled at the master of Imladris, and spoke. "Thank you, Lord Elrond, for your hospitality and the access to your library. Though I am eager to perform the task King Thranduil has put on us, and also to find my brother and free him from what has taken hold, perhaps one of these Houseless you speak of, it will be good to prepare. If we don't know what we will be facing, one of us might be next to fall possessed. And even if we find and detain him, it might do us no good if we don't know how to solve his condition. The knowledge in this room might be our greatest weapon in times to come."
Looking down at one of the books, he added, "I just hope it will not be too late, for my brother or our main objective."
Letting himself relax, Calion's eye caught the daylight coming from one of the window, and curiosity caught him. If, after all this reading, there was still time before the departure, he would have to go out and explore. But for now, there was at least one book to explore instead.
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Eonwë
Vala, Council
Vala and proud member of the Valar Guild. A quarter century of Tolkien fun.
Posts: 1,323
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Post by Eonwë on Jun 3, 2012 17:26:08 GMT -5
"One more admonition before I go, then," spoke Elrond in a low voice. "All the lore we have on the Houseless tells us that one must be freely admitted to the Hroa of a living individual. I do not know by what deceits or coercion one would have gained admission by your brother, but it is best to consider this, and be wary in yourselves of such as may be used against you. Once admitted, it will be incredibly difficult to separate."
With a nod to the group, he said, "May your research prove fruitful for your coming tasks." Leaving the library, he was joined by Erestor, and on the way to his next engagement the two discussed which of Rivendell's weaponsmiths could be spared, as well as a healer to be sent to examine the Dwarf Frali.
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Post by arienv on Jun 30, 2012 14:19:40 GMT -5
Aranwe Gildarion was in the small chamber he used as laboratory when Elrond came to ask him to examine a dwarf called Frali. As he was only familiar with Gloin and Gimli the healer supposed that this Frali must be a new arrival. Elrond explained quickly what the task was and also mentioned that he might be found in the company of Gloin and Gimli. The healer bent his head in agreement. "It shall be done, my Lord. I hope the dwaves are still in their usual haunt and i won't have to chase them for hours."
With that remark and a quick bow to Elrond Aranwe hurried to one of the balconies that looked towards the distant mountains and sure enough he saw the dwarves deep in conversation. He slowed down his pace and walked with purpose towards the one dwarf he didn't know. During his apporach the Noldo studied Frali's facial expression and manner of movement for anything that might point towards any remnants of shadow still lingering in his mind.
Frali:
The three dwarves just had decided to leave their cosy balcony and go to visit the forges of Imladris when they saw one of the Noldo approaching them. Frali noticed that he was obviously the strange elf's target and bowed politely. "Hail and well met, my good elf. Do you have a message for me or my kinsmen?"
Aranwe smiled at the formal tone and returned the bow. "Well met indeed, my good dwarf. I am Aranwe Gildarion, Healer in Lord Elrond's household and my only message was to find you, if you are Master Frali?"
The young dwarf nodded. Aranwe turned to Gimli and Gloin before he explained any further. "I am sorry to have interrupted your meeting and disturbed your privacy, Master Gimli and Master Gloin, but I am afraid this is a matter of some urgency and Lord Elrond awaits my return with an answer."
Gimli nodded understandingly. "Do not be unseemingly concerned, Master Aranwe. The keeper of these Halls cannot be left waiting unnecessarily in these eventful days. Young Frali here is a kinsman of us who has just arrived from a long and exciting journey from Erebor. If you need more privacy we shall leave you both alone or maybe you want to return to the house?"
"It might be best indeed if we go to the Healer's Quarters " Aranwe replied. Gloin and Gimli nodded and smiled reassuringly at Frali. "We shall meet you later, lad. " Gloin said. "It cannot be long now that dinner is served and I have never seen any elf missing the chance to endulge in the pleasure of Lord Elrond's table, especially when it comes to wine." With a knowing wink at Aranwe the two older dwarves retreated to the Hall of Fire.
During the short walk to Aranwe's surgery which lay close to the centre of Imladris with its herb garden and a lively fountain that was fed from one of the numerous mountain streams the healer asked Frali many questions about the events on the journey and stressed especially skirmishes and fights.
Frali was a bit surprised about these questions but answered them dutifully and truthful. He could not refrain from hiding the pride in his voice when he mentioned the number of orcs and spiders he had discarded of. With a grin the young warrior mentioned the "decoration" they had left at the ford of the Enchanted River. "That taught them not to meddle with Durin's folk, ha!" Then he sobered a bit. "Well, not for very long. They kept following us, and unfortunately i lost one of my axes so I was pointed to an orc sword which I used instead for the rest of the way." Frali's face shadowed as he mentioned the sword and quickly the Healer led him into the spacious room that served him as examination room. It contained a couch and a desk, two chairs as well as various cupboards with bandages, medical instruments and potions.
"That sword .. interesting weapon that seemingly." Aranwe said gently. "Look me in the eye, Frali, give me your hand and tell me everything you remember about the sword. Shape, form , any decorations maybe and any feelings that this weapon has stirred in you." With that the Noldo gently pressed Frali in one of the chairs and took a seat in the one opposite him, taking care that there was no desk seperating them.
The young dwarf raised his eyebrow surprised and slightly suspicious he answered. "Why do you want to know this? The other elves were quick enough to take the thing away from me. Why didnt you just have a look at it yourself to find out about the looks or decorations." A trace of defiance crept in Frali's voice although he did not register ist.
Aranwe just looked calmly at him and answered. "I could have done that indeed, but I need Your answers, Master Dwarf and your own words. This is what i was sent to do by Lord Elrond and this is what i will do. I am sure you have enough memory and knowledge of orc-weapons to do this for me?" The Noldo was alarmed at the dwarf's reaction but he kept up his professional manner and eye contact. He also hoped that the friendly tone of his voice the challenge was spoken in, took some of the edge off it.
Frali hesitated a bit but then slowly nodded as if something tried to hold him back, then shook his head to clear it. Then he nodded, moved his chair closer to the tall elf opposite him and offered his hand. "Well then, why not ... It is just a sword, and a badly made one at that." At the same time Frali thought Just a sword .. maybe not.
Aranwe smiled and accepted the dwarves hand, then he locked eyes with his opposite. "Speak, Master Dwarf, and do not be afraid. Nothing will be held against you."
Frali nodded with a shy smile and launched into a description of the orc sword, its make and its use during the fights. Then he moved on to the cleaning of the blade and the finding of the runes, the strange feeling that first seemed to emanate from them and then quickly vanished. "That was when I first thought of showing it to Meren, a Lorekeeper who travelled with us" Frali admitted "but I thought I would have it back straight away". He grimmaced slightly at the memory, but his hand stayed firmly, even if lightly shaking, in the Healers hand. In automatic response Aranwe concentrated, reached within himself and started to stream warmth, hope and cleansing powers into Frali's mind.
"What happened then?" he pressed on.
Frali reddened, but still didnt try to retreat or break contact that somehow had grown much more than merely physical. He felt himself speaking more openly, more self- confidently and more aware of the good intentions of the healer opposite him. "Meren didn't like the look of the runes .. nor did the other elves, not even the touch of it. She decided to keep it - to show to Lord Elrond, she claimed. And I ..hmm she gave me a small elven sword she had spare in her supplies and sent me to bed." Frali drew the well crafted weapon and looked at it for the first time with the eye of an expert weaponsmith. A beautiful thing indeed and deadlly sharp as well. He sighed and took hold of the healers hand again who smiled encouragingly. "I must admit that I wanted to take back the sword, I wanted to steal it if I could but Meren made sure that I had no access to it." Then he laughed and all shadows that still filled his heart vanished, feeling much lighter and freer. "That is pretty much the story of this sorry affair, Master Aranwe. One thing you might want to know is that once that sword was away from me I began to see more of the surroundings, the beauty of the mountains and the tranquility when we entered this valley."
There was nothing but admiration, reverence and lightness in the dwarf's countenance and voice now and with relief Aranwe finally broke contact and let go of Frali's hand.
The Healer walked to one of his cupboards, opened it and took out a small bottle containing a golden liquid. He poured two small cups for himself and Frali. Handing the drink over to the dwarf he explained. "I think we have deserved this - facing the shadow and overcoming it is no small task, for neither of us. It restores energy spent, hope and strength of mind. It leaves no room for anything the Enemy might try to do to both of us." Frali nodded and downed it, saluting the Noldo with it first. "You have risked much for me, Aranwe Gildarion. And I thank you from all my heart. But now I must take leave and get ready for the pleasures of this place that my kinsmen mentioned. I trust I shall see you later on there?"
"It is a pleasure to have been of service, Master Frali. If my duties allow it I shall indeed meet you later on in the Hall of Fire."
With a smile and formal bow Aranwe watched the young dwarf walk towards his assigned room. Then he sighed and hurried to find Lord Elrond with his report.
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