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Post by Amarië on Jul 25, 2003 19:54:41 GMT -5
Amarië paced back and forth in front of the bar, a hobbit lass walked towards her, 'Everything is in place. Do you want me to open the inn up?'
'Have you checked everything? Are all of the roses ready? The stables are clean?' she answered.
'Yes, yes and the bushes are trimmed and there is a rose in every room and on every table and the thorns are all cut of-' the hobbit lass wad interupted.
'Okay, I guess its time. Open the Inn!' she said. The hobbit lass scurried off, soon followed by Amarië. She was an elf maiden with emerald green eyes and dark brown hair. She wore a white gown that touched the floor, covering her elven boots.
At the door the hobbit lass was standing welcoming every person that walked in. She held a basket of red roses and handed one to every person that walked in. 'I'll take it from here, Lila. Please go tend to the guests horses.'
'Yes, ma'am,' she said walking away to the stables. 'Welcome to The Red Rose Inn!' she said everytime someone walked in, handing them a rose.
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Post by Firondoiel on Aug 6, 2003 16:09:49 GMT -5
The townsfolk scurried here and there about their everyday business. The street was filled with noise and chaos. No one noticed the cloaked figure that made it’s way through the crowd. Firondoiel peered out from under her hood as she walked. She finally found what she was looking for and turned into the drive of ‘The Red Rose Inn.’ Firondoiel was a tall elven woman with long brown hair that was tucked away in her hood. As she advanced towards the inn, her brown eyes noted the many rose bushes adorning the walk. The inn was a three story white building with firelight pouring out of the windows giving it a welcoming look. A young hobbit girl approached her as she neared the door. “Do you have horse you would like me to take care of sir?” she asked trying to see Firondoiel’s face under the dark hood. “No, thank you anyway.” Firondoiel replied. She had left her horse outside the village. “Very well.” The hobbit gave one more inquisitive glance at Firondoiel before she scuttled off. Firondoiel entered the inn and looked around at the merry guests drinking and talking. “Welcome to The Red Rose Inn!” said a musical voice behind her. Firondoiel turned and saw an elf maiden offering her a red rose. The elf maiden’s eyes widened when she saw Firondoiel’s elven garments. “Mae Govannen mellon nin!” she said. “Hannon le.” Replied Firondoiel glad to meet one of her own kind. “Amarië is my name.” Said the elven maiden switching to the common tongue. “I am Firondoiel from Mirkwood. I need a room for tonight.” “You shall have it. Make yourself comfortable at one of the tables. I have to welcome the other guests, please excuse me.” Amarië smiled and walked towards a couple that had just entered the inn. Firondoiel sat at a table in a dark corner. After ordering a drink, she leaned back and began to think over the past several days…
The leaves rustled in the gentle breeze. Arien shone brightly on the two elves in the small clearing. Yet despite the beautiful day the elves were sad. "When will you be back?" asked Firondoiel "My regiment has been ordered to the borders for six months." replied Haelithion "We are to leave tomorrow." "What of our wedding?" "I will try to get leave for a while and return so we can be wed. If you don't mind not having an elaborate wedding." Haelithion looked into her eyes. Firondoiel looked back. "You are the only thing I need for a perfect wedding." Haelithion smiled and leaned in for a kiss. "Please be careful." Firondoiel pleaded. "You know I will." Firondoiel smiled at her love but she couldn't stop the feeling of dread that was stealing over her.
A week later...... Firondoiel was awakened by the sound of knocking. She arose and wrapped a robe around and walked down the hall. Her father had all ready opened the door and was speaking to the stranger. "We were attacked by orcs at the border,” the stranger was saying. "Were many killed?" Came her father's strong voice. "Yes sir, I am afraid so and….” The stranger hesitated. Her father sighed, "Haelithion?" Firondoiel had been descending the stairs but now she froze. "He was captured sir. We fear him dead." Firondoiel heard nothing more of the conversation. It seemed like she was frozen in place, she couldn't move, she couldn't breath, she couldn't even scream as she was longing to.
“Firondoiel?”
A hand on her arm brought her back. She looked into her father’s concerned eyes.
“Firondoiel?” He repeated.
“They will go after him won’t they?” asked Firondoiel.
Her father didn't answer.
"Won't they?"
“No, they can’t spare that many elves, and he would likely be dead by the time they reached him.” said her father slowly. She turned and fled from her father’s embrace. When she reached her room she immediately walked to her closet and flung open the doors There hung the green uniform of Mirkwood that her father had given her, in the back sat her bow and arrows with her twin blades.
When Firondoiel crept out of her window anyone to look at her would have thought her a Mirkwood warrior. She mounted her horse and left without a backward glance.
*Thump!*
The waitress setting her drink down on the table snapped Firondoiel out of her reverie. Firondoiel sighed heavily. She had tried to follow the orcs trail but had been caught in a storm and become lost. It was then she had seen this village. After leaving her horse she had walked unnoticed all the way to the inn.
Firondoiel longingly wished for her friend, Arafangwen’s comforting presence and wise counsel
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Post by Arafangwen on Aug 7, 2003 13:55:20 GMT -5
Your wish, is my command Firi! So glad you're here!!!! ;D ******** Arafangwen quickly slowed Shantolé down to a trot with a quiet movement of her legs, she had finally spotted something of her quandry. There in the thicket to the left, Arafangwen saw a horse. But this was not just any horse, this was Firondoiel's horse! Searching the area, Arafangwen could find naught but a trail of footsteps, light as they were for an elf. She must be exausted. Arafangwen thought to herself, for the elf she was searching for did not usualy leave a trail for any to follow. Leaping from her steed, she spoke a few quite words to Shantolé and hastened off on the trail, leaving her stallion to keep Firondoiel's company until they returned. The trail was not very hard to follow, crushed leaves were everywhere, having littered the ground in the past day or two, Quellë was comming fast upon them she knew. Following the path easily, Arafangwen thought about the events of the past week or so... Firondoiel had been so excited about her marriage, it was one of the only things she could speak of anymore. But then Haelithion's regiment had been moved out suddenly. A week later, Arafangwen heard that he had been captured by orcs, she could not have imagined in her hardest, how the news would affect Firi. Arafangwen's own brother had been in the same regiment, but he had returned, that was the only reason she had known of Haelithions capture. She had ran as fast as her slim elven legs would carry her over to Firondoiels house to comfort her, only to find her father in tears. Firondoiel had run off. Arafangwen had run imedietly to her friends closet, upon finding that her tunic, bow and knives were gone Arafangwen ran all the way back to her home even faster than before. Grabbing her own camoflauging uniform and bow Arafangwen reached for her pack which was always ready in case of an emergency like this one. Slinging it lightly over her shoulder, Arafangwen kissed her mother goodbye and told her of her destination whilst bringing Shantolé into the yard. Ignoring her mothers protests, Arafangwen leapt onto her horse and began following the trail as quickly as she could.Arafangwen was quickly drawn back to the present as the trail joined a larger road and led into a small village. Seeing a glimps of swirling brown hair within the door of an inn across the street, Arafangwen ran over to investigate, the hood of her cloak flying off as she did so, revealing her waist length golden-red hair as it began flying behind her in her haste. Reaching the door, she was dismayed upon finding that the hair belonged to an elven maiden, but not the one she was searching for. The maiden's eyes grew large when she saw Arafangwen and she quickly handed her a blood red rose and welcomed her to the Red Rose Inn. "Mae Govannen." Arafangwen said in reply. "I am Amarië, I own this inn. If you have want of anything you only need to ask." Amarië said in her musicaly soft voice as she looked Arafangwen over before walking away to greet another customer. Arafangwen relized just then what a funny sight she must have made, in a green tunic made for a male elf, with her long wavy hair running all down her back, a bow and two quivers just visable beneath it, and a cloak that almost camoflauged her into her surroundings. "Ara!" A very familiar voice cried from somewhere behind her. Arafangwen whirled around as fast as lightning as a smile brighter than Ariens charge lit up her face. "Firi!" Arafangwen cried as she ran and swept her friend into possibly the largest hug in history startling the man and woman sitting at the table nearest them. "Firi, I was so worried! Why didn't you tell me you were going? You know I would have gone with you! Are you alright?" Arafangwen couldn't help herself, she had been worried sick! She suddenly relized that her friend was weeping in her arms and she moved them swiftly to a corner and sat down, smoothing Firondoiel's hair away from her face and rocking her back and forth, whispering to her words of comfort in their native tounge, hoping they weren't making to large of a spectacle of themselves, which truth be told they weren't really noticed at all because of their elven cloaks.
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Post by Mippin on Aug 7, 2003 18:24:06 GMT -5
Stepping softly, dodging the people here and there, Ránewen came upon the Red Rose Inn. She stood a while at the doors looking over the Inn. She eyed a great many rose bushes, and closed her eyes, letting in the sweet fragrance. The doors opened, and Ránewen opened her eyes to see a hobbit lass asking if she wanted to come in. She nodded and stepped forth into the inn. Looking around for a moment, she kneeled down slightly and whispered into the hobbits ear. "Yes, yes right away Miss..." the hobbit began. "Ránewen is my name, the miss won't be necessary." she smiled in reply. The hobbit scurried away.
Ránewen stood near the door observing the ongoings of the inn. She was a fair maiden, who was always wandering. Her long dark hair was as a veil about her, and her sapphire eyes gleamed in the light. Suddenly Ránewen looked straight ahead. An elf-maiden was coming her way. "It's been a long time," said Ránewen to the elf. The elf nodded and began to speak.
"Ránewen, it's good to see you again!" said Amarië.
"Come, I will tell you of my travels, but first, if you will.. I should like a room, and then a bit of wine. I am weary."
Amarië walked off, and once again Ránewen was greeted by the young hobbit. "Here you go, miss. Come sit and relax, I'll have your wine in a moment." At that Ránewen was led to a table and a seat was pulled out for her. She was much obliged by the hospitality of the hobbit. "Hannon le, Lila." The hobbit did not reply to this but kept walking. Soon, she came back carrying a glass of wine.
"Here you go, miss." Lila said. Again, Ránewen said the same. "Hannon le, Lila."
The hobbit lass stopped and looked at Ránewen puzzled, she was used to the elvish but something else seemed odd to her. Ránewen motioned for her to sit. "How did you know my name?" the young lass queried as she sat slowly. At this question Ránewen laughed, and she looked upon the hobbit's face. "I am a good friend of Amarië, and I am grateful for your hospitality." The look on the hobbit's face changed from puzzled to her normal happy self. "Pleased to meet you, I should like to stay and talk as normal with all hobbits, but it seems I have some more guests to attend to." With that the hobbit was gone, and Ránewen was left alone, ever weary from her travels.
She took up her glass and sipped her wine, watching the others talk amongst themselves. She seemed to recognize a few, who were deep in conversation. After taking in the sights, Ránewen gently closed her eyes and sat back, letting the aroma of roses and the sound of peoples voices lull her into pleasant daydreams. "It's good to be back." she whispered.
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Post by Amarië on Aug 7, 2003 21:43:09 GMT -5
Amarië walked about, getting rooms ready as people arrived at the Inn. She walked back to Ránewen's table and sat down next to her. 'Your room is ready. It seems to have thinned out a bit. So you must tell me of your travels,' she said to her, her voice nearly a whisper.
'Wel-' Ránewen began, but was interupted by a few new visitors coming in. Amarië stood up from the table, 'We shall have to finish our discussion later.' She went to the bar and picked up the basket of roses and greeted the new visitors, 'Welcome to the Red Rose Inn!' she said, handing them a red rose. The two young hobbits took the roses and made there way to the bar, where Lila served them. Amarië set the basket down next to the door and walked back to Ránewen's table. Sitting down she said, 'So tell me, how were your travels?'
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Post by Mippin on Aug 9, 2003 11:16:36 GMT -5
Ránewen finally was asked the question she was waiting to be asked. She dreaded this moment, for herself. As Amarië came back to the table, Ránewen was deep in thought.
Istel galloped quickly, a mere shadow in the dusk. She ran with all her might. "Quickly Istel, we've no time! Noro Lim!" screamed Ránewen as she drew nearer to Fangorn Forest. Her thoughts were flooded as she drew to the scene. She feared the worst.
At last she had reached Fangorn. There, amongst a bloody battlefield she saw him. Immediately she dismounted Istel and ran.
"NO! NO!" she screamed amidst her tears, as she came upon the body of her brother. Dead. Dead. Ránewen's mind was clouded and it seemed darkness came over her; the only thing she could think of was death. She took up her fist and screamed. "WHY?!" She was blinded by her tears as she bent down upon her brother, allowing her tears to fall upon his body. She whispered, "It has been long since we grieved for our parents, my brother. And now, now I grieve over thee. Sleep in peace."
"Ránewen? Are you alright? You've a tear upon your face, and grief upon your brow." Ránewen was shook out of her thoughts by the soft voice of Amarië. "Yes, yes.’tis true. You know of what has happened; I'm sure."
"Tell me your tale, and we shall see." Amarië whispered.
With these words, Ránewen wiped the tear off her face and told all her tale. "...Sleep in Peace, I said. And no sooner had I stood up, there was a foul feel in the air. Goblins! I fought hard and left few alive, but few is too great a number for these foul creatures..." she continued. Anger took her with her last words, anger at herself. She slipped her hand down to the hilt of her sword.
"I am grieved to hear this, long have you both suffered. Ná mi sérë!" Amarië muttered. Ránewen looked upon her face. "But he shall not. They...they," she faltered, tears welling in her eyes once more.
"They what, Ránewen?" Amarië queried. "They took him." with that a rage stole over her and tears flowed down her face, her eyes filled with a mixture of grief and anger. Her hand grasped the hilt of her sword tightly, as always when she was greatly moved, or angered.
"Will they not even let a man die in honour?! Why, why could not have it been me in place of him?!" She stopped, trying not to disrupt the peace in so homely an inn.
"Why was I chosen to linger on, in darkness? Why must I be the witness of the death of my family? Why...why must I see only death....fírin, ilya fírin." she whispered, repeating the slow words over and over again to herself.
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Post by Arafangwen on Aug 10, 2003 16:52:29 GMT -5
After a good long cry which at some point Arafangwen had joined in on, the two wiped their eyes and took their cloaks off putting them aside for it was quite warm in the inn. Going to the bar, Arafangwen got a flagon of wine for them each and returned to the table.
"So what should we do now?" Firondoiel asked in a timid voice.
"I would suggest that we send for aid, I know my Erestor, and Taurnil and Celahir my brothers would be willing to help, Celahir especialy because they were in the same regiment. Celahir became very fond of Haelithion you know, he spoke to me of him with little distrust and sorrow, but mostly a deep brotherly love I've known him to show to only a few others, they being Taurnil and my Erestor whom you know, and one other whom you do not." She said with a deep love for her brothers and fiancé obvious in her voice.
"I belive you forgot to mention yourself dear sister." Said a voice in her ear. Arafangwen whirled to see Celahir behind her just as he swept her up off her seat and in a large hug as he held her legs in one arm and her torso in the other, her entire self suspended in the air.
"Celahir!" she cried in delight. "Whence did you come? Are you alone? Who else came with you? I'm so glad to see you!" She said stringing her questions along as she was frequent to do. Two other elves strode momentarily through the door and recieved the roses given them before heading towards the table at which the rest were standing. Erestor leapt over by Celahir and in the blink of an eye he had slipped Arafangwen into his arms and kissed her lightly on the lips before setting her down lightly on her feet handing her his rose. Firondoiel had risen to her feet as Taurnil and Erestor had entered and was greeted by warm embraces and encouraging words by all. When they were all seated Arafangwen in Erestors lap by Firondoiel, and Celahir and Taurnil on the oposite side of the table.
"Exuse me." Taurnil said as he attracted the attention of Lila, the little hobbit lass that was tending the tables.
"Yes, can I help you?" She said as she walked over to their table.
"Yes, we would like two rooms for the night and we have five horses that will need to be stabled as well." Said Taurnil.
"Yes sir, I'll have them ready as soon as possible." Said Lila with a curtsy as she left to prepare the rooms for them.
"Thank you." Taurnil called after her as he returned to his drink.
"So what are we doing now?" Asked Firondoiel once more.
"We'll decide that in the morning." Said Erestor with a light kiss on Arafangwen's neck.
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Post by Firondoiel on Aug 14, 2003 16:21:00 GMT -5
Firondoiel was touched by her all her friends concern and encouragements. She tried to talk to Arafangwen’s brothers, but after releasing the emotions she had held back for weeks in her long cry, weariness was beginning to steal over her.
Yet fatigue wasn’t the only feeling troubling the maiden. Firondoiel looked at the couple across from her. Erestor was speaking softly to Arafangwen and giving her loving smiles and tender kisses. With each smile memories of a smile she so loved and cherished came rushing to Firondoiel. With each kiss, longing for her love filled her. An even greater sadness than before settled in Firondoiel’s heart. A small tear slowly began to fall. Firondoiel quickly wiped it away. She was determined not to let her feelings be known for she loved her friend dearly and Arafangwen would never forgive herself if she knew she was causing Firondoiel pain.
“I hope you will all pardon me,” said Firondoiel rising, “But I’m very weary and a rest would be most welcome.”
“Of course you are. We should have seen you to your room long ago.” Said Taurnil who, along with Celahir, rose with Firondoiel.
“Come, I’ll escort you there now. Oh, where is the hobbit lass?” said Celahir.
“I will find her.” Taurnil promised as he turned to begin his search.
By this time Arafangwen and Erestor had made it to their feet as well. Arafangwen was giving Firondoiel a curious look.
“Are you well Firi?” asked Arafangwen.
I do hope she didn’t see that tear, thought Firondoiel.
“As well as I could hope to be, Ara.” replied Firondoiel aloud. Both of them using their childhood names for each other.
Arafangwen took Firondoiel's hand and gave it a comforting squeeze.
“There is Taurnil. Let us go.” Said Celahir offering Firondoiel his arm.
“Our rooms are ready.” Said Taurnil as they approached, “Follow me.”
As the party made their way up the handsome staircase Firondoiel thought of her father, sorry she had hurt him by running off. She worried for him and hoped he was all right. She was also worrying if she had upset Ara at the table as well. But most of all, she worried for the elf she loved better than her own life. She begged the Valar to spare him.
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Post by Arafangwen on Aug 14, 2003 22:04:05 GMT -5
After seeing Firondoiel to her room, Arafangwen, Erestor, Taurnil, and Celahir walked to a nearby garden filled with fragrant red roses.
"Where do you suggest we start?" Arafangwen asked Celahir as he was better aquainted with the situation than she.
"Who is we dear sister?" Taurnil said turning to her quickly. "I think this shall prove more dangerous than you should be aquainted to." He said with a slight look of disaproval begining on his face.
"I feel the same way as you Taurnil, but I doubt there would be a way to prevent her company." Erestor said with a look of fondness towards his bethrothed. Arafangwen threw him a grateful look.
"You know as well as I do that Firondoiel would never be left out of this and you should also know that I would never leave her alone for something like that, not that you are not company enough, but she needs someone closer than any of you are if you understand me." She said glancing from one to another with firmness. Celahir finaly laughed after a tense moment or two.
"Alright sister, but you must promise to be careful in the extreme and to do exactly as told. Do you understand?" He said in firm voice that resounded of his fathers, strong yet gentle when need be as the moment was.
"Thank you Celahir." Arafangwen said quietly, knowing how hard it must have been for him to let her come, knowing what had happened to her older sister but six years after he had been born.
"And you shall be the main protector of Firondoiel." Said Taurnil with a mock look of sterness towards her which contained a gravity in it as well that made her keep in the smile that grew as he said the words.
"And you shall be hers." Celahir said to Erestor as he placed his sisters hand in the other elfs and wrapped them around each other.
"I shall be extra careful with my duties then." He said as he drew her hand to his lips and met her eyes with his, which were so full of love that this time Arafangwens smile did come out.
"And I shall try to be a very easy charge." She said with set determination in her voice as she raised her chin to show it.
"Good luck!" Said Taurnil with a chuckle as he slapped Erestor on the back. He knew full well what kind of trouble his sister was good at getting into, most of it was easy to deal with he thought, but her strong will and sharp, fiery temper always had him on his toes, even if he was her elder. Arafangwen smiled at her brothers and stiffled a yawn. Erestor saw her hand move to her mouth and suggested that they retire for the night and meet for breakfast in the morning too discuss a plan then, they all agreed and left the garden silently as elves will do.
Arafangwen walked down the hall to the room she was to share with Firondoiel, lagging behind a bit behind her brothers with Erestor. Erestor stopped Arafangwen a moment before the door and kissed her sweetly and softly before wispering a farewell and allowing her brothers a chance to say goodnight as well which they both gladly did. With a last wave, Arafangwen walked through her door and closed it behind her with a sigh of contentment. Arafangwen looked at her friend asleep on the bed beside hers, her eyes were closed like the mens sleep, not like the elves. Arafangwen quickly put her nightgown on and walked over to her bed stopping over Firondoiel a moment to be sure she was alright, she must have been crying, Arafangwen thought to herself sadly as the hurt for her friend welled up inside her like an ocean of tears. Arafangwen softly reached over and wiped the tears from Firondoiels eyes and face with her warm hand and caressed her hair as she sang a soft lullaby to her in their native tounge. Firondoiel face lightened and her eyes opened in their natural sleep as Arafangwen sang to her and they both smiled slightly, one in her sleep and the other in waking.
"Good night sister-friend." Arafangwen said as she affectionetly kissed her forehead before walking to her own bed and lying to sleep, her dreams being filled with her friends and those closer than that.
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Post by Arafangwen on Aug 16, 2003 17:53:09 GMT -5
Awakened by a knock at the door, Arafangwen threw on her bedside robe and went to answer it. Arafangwen winced when the door creaked as she opened it and peered out into the darkness of the hallway.
"Good morning my lissë!" Said the voice of Erestor from somewhere before her. A smile grew on her face as her heart began to beat faster.
"One moment Erestor." She said as she slipped back into her room to dawn her clothes. Once dressed, Arafangwen left the room, softly closing the door behind her as to not wake Firondoiel. Erestor slipped his hand into hers and led her swiftly and silently to the garden brimming with fragrant roses. Erestor smoothly picked one from the vine on the latice and placed it behind Arafangwens left ear.
"I've missed you the last few days, you worried me leaving like that." He said softly with his anxiety clearly sounding in his voice as a frown of concern crept onto his face.
"But I'm fine now." She said in a reasuring voice, kissing him lightly on the base of his neck, easing her arms around his waist and clasping them behind his back, in so pulling herself closer to him.
"Mmm." He murmured with a sigh of relaxation. Leaning his head down closer to her, Erestor kissed her lighty on the lips. "I, love, you." he said with a murmur between words as she kissed him back.
"We should be getting back." Arafangwen said as loosening her grip around his waist only so slighty. Erestor looked deep into her eyes.
"I wish it were not so, but I belive you are correct my lissë" Erestor said with a sweet sadness in his eyes. He slipped his arms around her waist and pulled her against him kissing her sweetly and deeply, instead of just letting it engulf her though, Arafangwen leaned deeper into him and kissed him back with a passion that suprised him a little.
"I missed you too." Arafangwen said with a large smile after finally withdrawing. Erestor grinned back and slipped one arm around her waist as they walked back towards their rooms. Arafangwen slipped silently back into her room and packed the rest of her things.
"Good morning Ara." Firondoiel said with a yawn as she sat up in her bed.
"Good morning Firi!" Arafangwen said with a smile, Firondoiel looked a lot better than she had the previous night. "Are you hungrey yet?" Asked Arafangwen as she finished packing.
"Yes, I just need to get dressed." Firondoiel said with a little smile. Firondoiel grabbed her tunic and cloak from the edge of the bed and dressed quickly. Arafangwen had already packed her clothes for her and so she simply grabbed her pack and slung it lightly over her back.
"It's good to see you're feeling better Firi." Arafangwen said as she linked arms with her childhood friend and strolled out the door with her.
"Good morning brothers!" Arafangwen said cheerily as they were approached by her brothers in the entrance to the diner section of the inn.
"Good morning!" They both responded together, Celahir bowed with a wink to Firondoiel and Taurnil in turn, bowed as well with Erestor right behind him. Firondoiel smiled in greeting before they were all seated together with breakfast set momentarily before them. After eating till full, the five set to discussing a plan of action.
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Post by Amarië on Aug 21, 2003 18:40:58 GMT -5
Ránewen's eyes searched back and forth, looking at no particular thing. 'Ránewen, are you okay?' she asked, grasping her shoulder knocking her out of the trance.
'Yes, yes, I'm fine,' she replied, a tear falling down her cheek. Amarië felt her pain, 'It's okay, it is in the past now,' she tried to soothe her, knowing that not only words could do it. 'I must go, I have to go, can you take care of the Inn while I'm gone?'
Ránewen straightened up, 'What do you mean? Where do you have to go?' Amarië looked into Ránewen's eyes and she knew what she ment, she had to go, 'No let me go, it is not your battle, you do not seek revenge.'
'For my loyal friend, I will do anything. I must go, can you manage here, Lila will show you what to do if you are uncertain about something,' she said up from the table and Ránewen quickly followed. 'I cannot let you do this.'
'I must go, stay here with Lila, she cannot run this Inn alone,' she said walking out to the stables. There was a black mare inside that was getting restless. Amarië put some food in her bag and began, checked her sword and began to mount. 'Be careful, for it is dangerous there. I wish there was something more I could say to keep you here. It is not your fight.'
'I will be carefull, don't worry, I have seen and been through worse. There is no more that will make me stay here. I can feel your pain, and I won't be alone. I have a few friends I will pick up on the way that will be of aide to me,' she said walking the mare out of the stable.
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Post by Mippin on Aug 22, 2003 20:15:06 GMT -5
Ránewen stood, staring hopelessly as Amarië walked out the door swiftly. Time seemed to stop, and her mind was flooded with memories. Oh, the memories. She made up her mind, she could not let Amarië do this. At the very moment Lila walked up to her.
"Are you alright, Miss Ránewen?" she asked earnestly. Ránewen looked upon the hobbit's face. Hurriedly she spoke to her.
"Can you call for backup, Lila? If Amarië does not come back soon, do not expect that I shall either. You need to be prepared to take over the Inn. Can you handle this, Lila? I am counting on you!!" she said to the hobbit, whose eyes became wider with every word.
"Yes'm. I can manage for a bit, and can call in for some help, but if you wish to stop her, I suggest doing so now. If I may be so bold." was the hobbit's reply.
At this Ránewen rushed out the doors, running like a wild animal being hunted and fled swiftly down the street a bit. At last she had caught up to Amarië, who was still walking her mare down the street, not too far from the stables.
"Amarië! Tápë!!" she cried out, her voice forceful, but tainted with grievence.
Amarië turned around. "Nay, this I must do. I bid thee farewell. Namárië!" and she continued leading her horse down the road.
Ránewen shouted. "And now that I am the last of my kin, what shall I do when my only friend is gone. Why shouldst I linger on, surrounded by only death? Nay, I shall ride with you, or else you shall stay. I will have it no other way."
Amarië was not surprised. She gave in, and returned to the stables, leaving her midnight mare, and the two walked back to the Inn. Ránewen was overly-pleased, and knew she could not hide it from Amarië. It was hard to hide one's emotions from an elf, after all.
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Post by Amarië on Aug 22, 2003 21:45:22 GMT -5
Amarië walked into the inn, after being persuaded by Ránewen not to leave, but there was something more inside of her, she needed to seek revenge. Revenge, not only for Ránewen, but for herself, too. This was something she rarely ever felt, mostly taking after her mother. She continued into the Inn, and tended to a few guests. Ránewen sat over at the same table, though her mind seemed off in a different place. Lila walked by, and Amarië grabbed her arm gently to stop her from putting away the dishes to tell her something, 'I shall be going to bed early, can you handle it by yourself, or shall I ask upon Ránewen for some help?' 'I think I can manage, but Ránewen might be of some help to me,' Lila responded. Amarië nodded and walked over to where Ránewen sat. Whispering something in her ear, Ránewen nodded and continued in her deep thought. Amarië went back her room and opened the window, a gust of cold, wet wind blew into the room, it was about to rain. Amarië took out some ink and paper out of a drawer. She began to write beautiful gold letters on the paper Dearest friend, Ránewen, I am sorry, but I have to leave, not just to avenge your family, but my own. I cannot let you go, stay here with Lila, she has never run an Inn on her own and needs your help. Do not fret, I shall return someday. It may be a week from now, or a year from now, but I shall return. I will not be on my own; I have some friends that will come to my aide. Riding by night my road may be dangerous, so I hope for the best, and that the Valar will protect me. I will also hope for the safety of the inn, for I have heard of wolves about and strangers in the night. Be on your guard! Your dearest friend, Amarië Putting a seal on the letter, she wrote Ránewen on the front and slid it into her pouch. Gettin her blue coat, she left the room, and snuck quietly out of a back door. Walking around to the kitchen door, the fragrance of rose’s filled her nose, she was going to miss it here, but she had to leave. Inside the kitchen, she found Lila making some dinner for a guest. 'Why are you so dressed up? And you are carrying your bag, are you leaving?' the hobbit lass asked as she walked in. 'Yes, I shall be leaving, please give this to Ránewen, it will explain it all. I must go now, Namárië!' she said in a rush out the door before Lila could reply. The wind blew fiercely, and thunder roared in the distance, a perfect night to leave. Inside the stables to horses grew restless, especially the black mare. Leading her out of the stable, Amarië felt no regret in her decision. Deep inside her she wanted to go. Mounting her, the black mare's mane thrashed back and forth in the wind. Amarië whispered something to her, and she began to gallop down the road, the wind whipping at her hair, and they were gone, quietly off into the night.
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Post by Arafangwen on Aug 24, 2003 16:54:26 GMT -5
After a little debate, the group decided to go directly towards Haelithion and the orcs instead of returning to their homes and gathering help, the time for leaving was late enough already Firondoiel had argued to no protest. Tuarnil asked the maidens once more if there was any way to disduade them from coming. The answer was a firm 'no' from each and it was left at that.
"Now," Said Celahir with a firm voice addressing the maidens. "We have appointed Arafangwen with the charge of keeping after Firondoiel and Erestor over Arafangwen. Yet you must all be on your guards at all times, you may have someone protecting you, but you have to remember that they must protect themselves as well." He said with the sterness of his father returning to his voice, a slight wince showing on his face as the memories flooded back to him.
He had only been six years old, very young in the eyes of an elf, and yet bold and valiant even so. It had been a bright sunny day, perfect for a picnic Elerína had said. Their parents agreed and so she had swung him onto the back of her horse Linwé and hopped up behind him with a small sack of food. They left lightheartedly and with laughter for the beauty of the springtime, they took a fairly well known trail down to the nearby stream. The water was sweet and sang with a voice of it's own within the wooden glade, he had been delighted and they had had sat for almost an hour simply splashing the water lightly back and forth at each other. After a while they grew tired of this and drew a little ways away from the waters edge and ate the fruit and bread that Elerína had packed. They were washing their hands in the water when an animal had entered the clearing, a wild boar. It had come for water, seeing them by the waters edge it had charged them, it's tusks barred ready to kill. Celahir had been very brave even at so young an age and had yelled for his sister too run, but she did not yeild to his wish. Elerína picked him up from the stream side and ran towards Linwé, she threw him onto the horses back and bent her knees to leap on as well. But she never made it, the boar had caught up with her and tackled her to the ground, spooking Linwé. The last thing Celahir remembered was her calling to him to run and that there was nothing he could do for her. Linwé had heeded her call and carried him home weeping, to their parents who grieved greatly when they came upon her broken body in the glade whence Linwé had lead them after.
Celahir quickly wiped a tear from his eye before it fell, Taurnil caught the action and placed a strong encouraging hand on his shoulder. Celahir turned and smiled at his brother, neither Taurnil nor Arafangwen had been born yet whence this happened, yet they were still greatly greived by the matter. The rest of the company understood also, the graveness of his words and took heed to them knowing the story as well.
"We will for certain." Said Firondoiel with a little smile of reasurance to Celahir.
"She speaks the truth." Said Arafangwen with a smile to Erestor. "I should not wish any dearly loved of mine to perish on my account." Erestor smiled back at her, but simply shook his head, Arafangwen knew there was no way he would let her die without them getting through him first.
"Now that we're all understood, we should be leaving with the most haste available." Said Taurnil whilst rising from his seat.
"Agreed!" Firondoiel quickly added, ready to run for the stables and leave, she was almost bursting with anticipation to leave. The rest of the company stood. Celahir, being the oldest went to the desk to pay for the rooms and Taurnil went with him request that their horses be brought to the front of the inn. After everyone was mounted, they made a little formation with no thought to it and began on their way, Celahir in front, knowing more than the others where to begin, Taurnil and Erestor behind him, and Arafangwen and Firondoiel behind them, Arafangwen behind Taurnil and Firondoiel behind Erestor. All of the sudden, Arafangwen was hit with a thought.
"Erestor?" She asked.
"Yes dear?" He said turning to look at her from the bare back of his horse.
"How did you find us?" She asked him tilting her head in confusion. Erestor laughed, apparently they had completley forgot to tell of their own plight. Taurnil turned around as well.
"Well," He began. "As you know, father, Celahir, and myself were at Erestors home when you left." He said clearing his throat. "Well, we were in the garden discussing your, ahem, um, your-" It was clear that he was becoming uncomfortable at this point as he stumbled through his words for a moment.
"Our engagement." Erestor said for him, he knew how attached to his sister Taurnil was, and so they tried to speak of it as little as possible, to avoid grieving him at the thought of her leaving their household.
"Yes that." Taurnil continued with a slight grimmace.
Firondoiel thought it was a little funny that he would speak of it so uncomfortably, but she kept her opinion to herself and simply smiled at him. Arafangwen as well knew he did not like the idea of her leaving their home, the relationship between the two was very close and he was begrudged to cleave it in any way, she smiled knowingly at Taurnil and he continued with a smile towards her.
"We were in the garden anyway, and mother came running in out of breath. She told us that Firondoiel had left and that you had followed her. We immedietly went to our house and gathered our things, Erestor met us at our house with his things and mother directed us in the way you had left and told us to find you two with all haste. We followed your tracks slowly at first for they varied all across the road." Arafangwen blushed in emberessment at this, she knew she wasn't the greatest of trackers. Taurnil continued. "We even lost your trail a few times, but were able to follow Firondoiel's. When we reached the edge of town, we found both of your horses and took them with us into town. Celahir took one end of the street and Erestor and searched the other sides down a ways. He must have seen you through the window for he whistled, telling us he had found you and then ran inside the inn. And the rest you know." He finished with a smile. Arafangwen smiled back, it was good to have brothers. Taurnil returned the smile with a bigger one and turned back around and Erestor blew her a kiss before following suit. She looked over and noticed that Firondoiel was asleep on her horse, she walked Shantolé closer and kept the two in pace together. Then she reached over and layed Firondoiels head gently on her shoulder, trying not to wake her. They rode on that way for the last few hours of sunlight before Firondoiel awoke, for they had already been riding quite a long time that day.
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Post by Firondoiel on Aug 25, 2003 16:16:21 GMT -5
Firondoiel saw a blonde elf standing with his back to her. Something about the elf was familiar. In fact he seemed almost like….
Before Firondoiel could complete her thought the elf turned. Firondoiel gasped.
“Haelithion?”
She started towards him but the harsh look in his eyes stopped her. He looked her over coldly.
“Haelithion? What is wrong? I have been searching for you for days! Tell me what is troubling you.” Firondoiel begged with anxiety written all over her face.
Haelithion didn’t answer. He simply turned and started walking away. Firondoiel hastened after him.
“Why won’t you speak to me? What has happened to you?” Tears filled Firondoiel’s eyes as Haelithion continued to ignore her. Finally she stepped in front of him and flung her arms around him. “Haelithion,” she said gently “Please tell me what is wrong!” Haelithion roughly pushed her away from him and walked on. Firondoiel’s tears heavily fell as Haelithion’s form grew smaller and smaller.
“Wake up Firondoiel.” Arafangwen’s gentle voice called. Firondoiel opened her eyes and saw that their horses had halted. She lifted her head from Arafangwen’s shoulder and sat up straight on her horse. Something wet ran down her cheek. Firondoiel raised her hand to her face and found she had really been crying in her sleep. Feeling Arafangwen staring at her, she quickly wiped the tears away.
“What is going on?” she asked.
“We’re stopping for the night.” Answered Celahir looking back at them.
Arafangwen looked at Firondoiel’s glistening eyes. “Are you all right my friend?” she asked quietly.
Firondoiel did not wish to speak of her dream just yet. She hastily said “Yes, I am all right. I just need a good night’s sleep.” Firondoiel forced a smile for her friend. Arafangwen raised an eyebrow. “Firi…”
Celahir and Erestor approaching interrupted Arafangwen. Erestor helped Arafangwen down from her mount while Celahir assisted Firondoiel.
“How are you Firondoiel?” Celahir asked with concern in his eyes.
“I am well.” Firondoiel replied. She didn’t need to look at Arafangwen to know she was giving her a chiding look. She was spared again from Arafangwen’s questioning by the approach of Taurnil.
“There is a small clearing behind these trees. We can sleep there.” He said.
“Good. I will take the first watch, then Erestor, then Taurnil.” Directed Celahir as he walked Firondoiel to the clearing Taurnil had spoken of.
“Really Celahir. I am quite capable of taking a watch as you or anyone else.” Protested Arafangwen.
“Don’t argue my love. The three of us can handle the watch.” Persuaded Erestor gently kissing Arafangwen. His fiancé smiled and was content to return the kiss and let the subject drop.
After everyone was settled in and trying to sleep. Firondoiel lay wide-awake, memories unbidden were flooding her troubled mind.
The rain pattered gently against the windowpane as Firondoiel happily told her father of her engagement to Haelithion. When she finished his reaction was not what she had hoped for.
He sat still in intimidating silence staring at her. Finally he said “You do not jest with me, I can tell. Firondoiel, you know I do not approve of Haelithion. How could you do such a thing?”
“I love him! Please understand Ada!” Firondoiel pleaded.
“I don’t understand. There is something about him I don’t trust. I had hoped you would abide by my wishes.” Her father said sternly.
“Ada, you have only ever spoken to Haelithion once. Once you get to know him you will understand why I love him.”
“No I won’t. You two are both being extremely foolish.”
Firondoiel remembered how her anger had boiled over at that remark. She argued long with her father until he finally gave his grudging consent. It took days to get his agreement. Haelithion had been upset when she recounted the event to him. That memory now played before her eyes.
“What is troubling you meleth nín?” asked Haelithion as Firondoiel approached.
Firondoiel shook her head. The past few days had been miserable for her. She was constantly fighting with her father about her engagement. The little time she got to spend with Haelithion kept her going.
“My father doesn’t approve of our marriage.” Firondoiel said bluntly.
Haelithion started, “What? Why?”
Firondoiel hesitated, unsure of what to say. “Well,” she began slowly, “He doesn’t know you very well and he is having a difficult time accepting the idea of me being engaged.”
Haelithion’s worried expression changed to a smile. “Well that is understandable. Once he sees how much we are in love I have no doubt he will give his blessing.”
“I told him how much we love each other but his disapproval of you all ways…” Firondoiel winced, deeply regretting her mistake.
“Doesn’t approve of me? He has hardly spoken to me. How can he have such ill feelings? Does he not deign me worthy to join his family?” Haelithion’s tone had drastically changed. His eyes had grown cold and were filled with smoldering anger.
Firondoiel sat straight up. The Haelithion from her memory looked just like her dream Haelithion. Despite the warm night Firondoiel shivered. Doubts about the one she thought she loved began to form in her mind.
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