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Post by Arafangwen on Aug 26, 2003 18:05:21 GMT -5
Arafangwen rolled over in the direction of Firondoiel, she was worried about her. She hadn't seemed like herself recently, but then again, these were odd circumstances. All of the sudden, her thoughts were interupted as Firondoiel sat straight up, startling Arafangwen. She sat up with Firi and crawled over towards her pallet.
"Firi?" She asked quietly. "Firi are you alright?" She asked, a sharp pang peircing her heart as she heard a sob escape Firis lips. "Firi?" She tried again, placing her arms around Firondoiels shoulders and pulling her close. "Firi, what happened earlier on our way here? You know what I'm talking about, you were crying in your sleep, what's going on?"
Firondoiel pulled away a little to look at Arafangwen. "Do you really want know?" She asked with a trembling voice.
"Of course I want to know Firi! You know you can tell me anything. What's wrong?" She said grasping Firondoiel's hands in between them.
Firondoiel took a deep shaky breath. "I've been having horibble dreams. Haelithion, he, he's always-" A sob escaped her lips as she strugled to continue. "I don't want to belive it, it can't, be, true. He loves me, he would never-" Arafangwen hushed her and pulled her head close to her chest.
"It's alright Firi, everything is alright. Hush now, it's alright, everything's going to be fine, I'm here now, don't worry." She said while she smoothed her hair and her tears from her face. She turned her head to the side, she could have sworn she heard someone beside her.
"Arafangwen?" Said a voice beside her, Arafangwen jumped about six inches and took Firondoiel with her in the proscess.
"Celahir!" She cried with a slight scolding tone to her voice.
"I'm sorry Arafangwen, I did not mean to scare you." He said sincerely. "But I couldn't help but hearing the maiden Firondoiel weeping and I wished to know if I could be of any assistance. Are you alright Lady Firondoiel?" He asked politely placing his hand on hers and bringing it to his chest for her attention.
To his suprise, Firondoiel threw herself into his arms, weeping rather loudly now. After he recovered from his shock at the sudden action, he wrapped his arms around her and whispered soothing words into her ears as he rocked her back and forth. Arafangwen remembered that he was supposed to be on watch and silently slipped away picking up her weapons as she did so, smiling to herself, she had weasled her way into a night watch and she would do a good job of it.
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Post by Arafangwen on Aug 28, 2003 16:55:56 GMT -5
Arafangwen smiled to herself, she enjoyed the warm silence of the nightime. She had always loved the stars, when she was young, she used to sneak outside at night to watch the stars as she fell asleep, her brother Taurnil would always follow her silently and sleep from a point as to watch over her and then bring her back to her bed before her mother woke and found her missing. Arafangwen laughed as a memory came to her.
Once, her mother had risen much earlier than usual and had gone to her room to find her missing, she had immedietly awakened her husband and Celahir before finding that Taurnil was gone as well. They searched the whole house in a frenzie before Celahir found them sleeping in the garden, her mother had scolded her for sleeping out there and then Taurnil for allowing her too. That day, she went to Firondoiel's house and stayed the whole day. When she returned that evening, she found that they had removed almost an entire wall from her room and replaced it with a strong latice and curtains to be pulled up at night and let down during the hours wished. Her brothers had jested with her about her love for the stars, they even called her by the name given her sister a time or two, as it meant 'star-crowned'.
Arafangwen's eyes snapped back to the present, she had heard a footfall behind her. Had Celahir returned to his watch? No, that was not possible, it was almost over as it was.
"Celahir." A very familair voice called to her. "Celahir, your watch is over, you may go rest now." Said Erestor walking towards her. Arafangwen giggled inside, he thought she was Celahir. After a moment of deliberation, she decided to suprise him once he got closer. Walking up till he was beside her, Erestor fell right into her trap. Arafangwen jumped up from her seat and lightly leapt as close to him as possible without upsetting his balance and planted a sweet kiss on his lips. Erestor lept back with a small cry.
"Cel-Arafangwen!" He cried in suprise. "Where is Celahir? What are you doing here? Have you been alone the whole time?" Arafangwen looked at him with a smirk of amusement on her face.
"Did you really think I was Celahir?" She asked him with laughter on her lips. Erestor rolled his eyes in exasperation.
"It is Celahirs watch, and there was someone sitting there where I had left him. What else was I to think?" He cried with a wild gesture of his arms. Arafangwen just stood there with an amused look on her face, her lips itching to let forth the laughter that they had been with-holding throughout their converation. Erestor noticed this and relented with a smile as her laughter burst forth like a ray of sunshine.
"You are beautiful my Lady Lalaith." He said joining her in her laughter as he drew her towards him and took her hands. "But tell me, where is your brother Celahir and why is it you I find instead of him?" He asked with concern, worn on his face. Arafangwen sighed and looked up at him.
"I was speaking to Firi for she was crying and Celahir heard her cries and came to see what the matter was. She was sobbing and threw herself into his bewildered arms. I knew he was supposed to be on watch and so I grabbed my bow and quiver and left to take his place. I was not in any danger, you need not be mad at him." She said in a soothing voice. Erestor sighed.
"I know, but you might have been injured had anything actualy come, I never would have been able to forgive him." He said, a look of hurt in his eyes. "Please say that you will not do this again! Please tell me that you will at least let me be by your side if you choose to do something like this again. Please melamin." He said, his eyes pleading to her. Arafangwen was a little taken aback, she hadn't realized the affect that one nights watch would have on him.
"Alright, I will not do it again." She said with downcast eyes. "I am sorry Erestor." She said to the ground. Erestor reached over and lifted her chin.
"Tis alright now." He said, and with that, he kissed her sweetly and proceded to take his watch with Arafangwen sleeping at his side, her head in his lap. They were not disturbed until Erestor's watch was over and Taurnil came to take his in the early morning hours as the faintest rays of light came over the horizon and dimmed the stars.
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Post by Firondoiel on Aug 28, 2003 20:32:57 GMT -5
Firondoiel struggled against the awareness she could sense coming over her. She felt far too warm and safe to consider waking up. She vaguely detected that someone’s arms were tightly wrapped around her. Suddenly remembering what she had done last night she quickly looked up to see Celahir’s face above her. Blushing profusely, she began to disentangle herself until she saw that his eyes were unfocused in sleep. She stilled her movements, unsure of whether to wake him by pulling away or to stay still in his arms until he awoke.
How had she gotten into this situation? She couldn’t answer that. When she had been sobbing on Arafangwen’s shoulder and he had walked up, she had all of the sudden found herself thrown into his embrace. What had possessed her to do that? She didn’t know the answer to that either.
Firondoiel sighed and looked back up at Celahir’s handsome face trying to decide what to do. Darkness still covered Middle-Earth, but Arien would be rising soon. Firondoiel knew another long ride was ahead of them. They all needed as much sleep as possible, and it was kind of nice here in his arms. Firondoiel gently laid her head back on Celahir’s chest and slipped into the world of dreams.
Fortunately for Firondoiel she was not the first of the pair to awake the second time. As Arien’s golden rays touched the earth, Celahir’s eyes quickly focused. He immediately felt the warmth in his arms and looked down at the slumbering maiden. Celahir had been a soldier for several years, but nothing he had ever experienced helped him in this moment. He sat still with an awkward look on his face and his eyes held a look of indescision. If any of his companions had seen him it is certain they would have laughed at the comical picture he made.
Finally, he tenderly smoothed Firondoiel’s hair from her face and gently whispered, “Awake fair one.” Firondoiel whimpered and snuggled closer to Celahir. At this act Celahir sighed softly and began to rub soothing circles on Firondoiel’s back. The elf maiden started to stir. Again Celahir whispered to her, “Mara tuilë vendë vanya.” At this Firondoiel’s blue eyes focused on Celahir’s dark brown ones. Firondoiel timidly smiled and reluctantly pulled away.
“Good morning to you too, Celahir.” She said in her clear voice. Celahir returned her smile, “Lady Firondoiel, I feel I should apologize for…”
“Oh please do not!” cried Firondoiel, “It is I who owe you the apology.”
“I will not allow you to apologize when you have done nothing wrong.”
“But neither have you, Celahir.” Countered Firondoiel. “You comforted me greatly last night and I really appreciate it.”
“It was my honor to help you in any way I could.” Celahir said sincerely.
Firondoiel shyly smiled again and her eyes locked with Celahir's. There was a tender look in his eyes and he gently tucked a stray hair behind her ear. They looked into each other's eyes for several minutes not saying a word. Then, Celahir slowly began to lean forward.
“Ah Celahir! Firondoiel! Mara tuilë!” The spell was broken. Celahir and Firondoiel quickly looked up to see Taurnil approaching with Arafangwen behind him. “Mara tuilë Taurnil, Arafangwen.” Replied Celahir. “Where is Erestor?”
“Preparing the horses for today’s journey. I have come to asisst the ladies in breaking camp.” Answered Taurnil with a grin.
Celahir stood, “I believe I shall help Erestor. Excuse me.” He said as he walked away.
Arafangwen walked over to Firondoiel and gave her a hug. “Good morning Firi. How do you fare today?” she asked. “I feel better today than I have for a long time.” Said Firi smiling warmly. Arafangwen studied her friend for a moment then gave a satisfied nod. “You know Firi, I think you need something to cheer you up.” Firondoiel looked sharply at Ara, “For instance?” she prompted. Arafangwen looked mischievously at the preoccupied Taurnil. “Just wait ‘till you hear what I’ve got in mind Firi.” she said with a giggle.
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Post by Arafangwen on Aug 29, 2003 17:30:06 GMT -5
Arafangwen snuck behind a bush with Firi as she whispered a plan into her ear.
"So what do you think?" She asked anxiously. Firondoiel gave her a girlish giggle in return and they walked back with giant grins on their faces, their arms linked together. Arafangwen walked over to Taurnil and sweetly asked him if he would like her to refill his water bottle for him. He smiled and handed it over to her, he felt special to have such a loving sister. Arafangwen winked at Firondoiel, their plan was working perfectly!
"Did you, ahem, clean his horse Firi?" Arafangwen asked with a grin.
"Why of course Ara!" She replied with a wink. "Let's go fill this water bottle shall we?" She said with a giggle. The girls skipped off to the stream while the men put everything in their packs. When the girls returned, they handed Taurnil his water bottle and went to their horses. Erestor helped Arafangwen onto her horse and Celahir helped a slightly reluctant Firondoiel onto hers. They then leapt lightly onto their own horses and looked to Taurnil who was standing there with a perplexed look on his face.
"What is wrong brother?" Asked Celahir. Taurnil scratched his head, which was also a strange sight for an elf.
"I'm having a little trouble mounting." He said flusteredly. Ara and Firi stiffled small giggles. Erestor caught them, but kept silent. Taurnil tried again, he lept from the ground and onto his horse, but slipped off the other side and landed flat on his back with a groan. Arafangwen and Firondoiel couldn't help themselves, they both burst into laughter and doubled over onto their horses. Celahir walked his horse over to them.
"Alright, what have you two been up to?!" Celahir asked with a little smile hidden under his frown. Arafangwen and Firondoiel looked at each other before answering him.
"Well," Began Arafangwen with a smile.
"I should have know it was you two!" Taurnil said with a little grin as he shook himself off.
"And we're sorry Taurnil!" Said Firondoiel with another giggle.
"We won't do it again! We promise!" Said Arafangwen with a grin.
"Alright!" Said Taurnil with a smile. "But how do I mount might I ask?" He said with a note of seriousness in his voice.
"Um..." The girls looked at each other and dismounted. They both walked over to his horse and wiped it down with slightly damp towels.
"There! You can safely mount now!" Firondoiel said with a smile. Taurnil looked at them warily. Arafangwen rolled her eyes.
"Look Taurnil." She said as she lept onto his horse safely. "Now let's go shall we?" She said as she dismounted once again and walked to her own horse and mounted him. Firondoiel and Taurnil both mounted their respective horses and they were off. An hour later, Arafangwen noticed that Taurnil was still rubbing his backside. She glanced over at Firondoiel and smiled. Firondoiel motioned back towards Taurnil with a wink. Arafangwen turned just in time to see Taurnil taking a large swig from his flagon of 'water'. Taurnils face immedietly soured as he spit the water out onto the ground and looked over at them. Arafangwen and Firondoiel were both laughing their heads off with one hand over their mouthes and one on their stomaches, almost perfect images of each other. Celahir and Erestor turned around at the sounds of laughter. Seeing Taurnils face, they stopped their horses and asked him what had happened. Taurnil winked at the girls and answered that they had only been speaking of the previous joke of thiers, he asked Celahir if he would like a bit of water. Celahir nodded and reached for the flagon. Taking a swig he immedietly showed the same reaction as his brother spitting out the water and staring at the others who were all laughing except for Firondoiel who was looking remorseful and offered him her water which he gladly took and washed his mouth out with.
"Thank you lady Firondoiel." Celahir said with a warm smile to her. Firondoiel shyly smiled back and placed her flagon back beside her pack. Arafangwen caught a look in Firondoiels eyes that she hadn't seen in a while and wondered at it. The group reordered themselves and continued on their way.
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Post by Firondoiel on Aug 30, 2003 12:46:22 GMT -5
Arien shone her last golden rays on Middle-Earth for a moment before disappearing behind the hills. Darkness crept over the world. Rána began his way through the heavens as the stars brightened.
The five riders were going slowly. They had been following the orcs’ trail for two days now, and they were getting close. All of them could feel it.
They came to a halt when Taurnil, who had ridden ahead of the group, called Celahir to him. “There is an orc camp on top of the next hill. We have caught them.” He announced on Celahir’s arrival. “How many?” Questioned Celahir. “Too many.” Taurnil bitterly answered. “My guess would be a hundred.” Celahir nodded gravely. ”This is what I feared. We cannot possibly fight them. We shall approach their camp quietly and try to find Haelithilion’s location and see if there is anyway we can get to him.”
“All of us?” Taurnil asked with a backward glance at the two elf maidens. “Do you want to be the one the to tell Firondoiel and Ara that they are staying behind?” asked Celahir with a small grin. Taurnil’s eyes widened and he quickly shook his head. “Good point. You know Celahir, I believe all of us shall go and spy on the orcs.” At this the two brothers turned and road back to the rest of their party.
The elves were nearing the orcs’ location. Orc snorts and fell stench gushed through the trees to greet them. A particularly loud growl made all of the elves quickly grab their weapons instinctively as they marched. At last, they reached the outskirts of the camp and peered around the trees.
The orcs were scurrying all over the camp. Some were gathering up bedding and various supplies, some were standing guard, and several were argueing or fighting. Two orcs were rolling on the ground growling and fighting. Yet this did not seem to disturb the other orcs. The most they did was look at them as they walked by. But over all, it was obvious they were preparing to leave.
A single tent was still standing in the camp. From this tent two figures emerged. The first was definitely an orc but the other….
Firondoiel gasped as she realized the other figure was Haelithion. The elves saw that Haelithionwas not bound and that he carried a mug. The said elf stumbled along next to the orc and gave a loud laugh. The orc, however, did not seem amused.
“Do you understand your orders?” the orc gruffly asked. Haelithion hiccupped and replied. “Return to Mirkwood and give a dramatic little story about I how escaped the orcs and present the Mirkwood generals with the phony battle plans.” At this Haelithion burst out into a fit of laughter repeating “phony battle plans” to himself as if it was the funniest joke ever.
The orc merely grunted and continued, “Remember, that we will allow Mirkwood to defeat us in the first battle but afterwards we will drive the elven weaklings to their knees!” The orc growled with delight and Haelithion howled. Then the orc frew serious again. “What of this engagement you mentioned earlier? You have yet to explain that.”
Haelithion sobered somewhat and answered “Ah yes. I had almost managed to forget about that. I am engaged to General Dûnhísië’s daughter. Isn’t it delicious? Here I am, a spy in the midst of Mirkwood, soon to marry a general’s daughter!” Haelithion laughed again. “You should see the girl. She practically worships me. She was so easy to conquer. Her father though, doesn’t quite trust me. But she took care of him for me. Argued with him for days about my character.” Here Haelithion broke into another fit of uncontrollable laughter.
“Do you intend to go through with this?” asked the irritated orc.
“Of course.” Answered the cackling Haelithion. “Not that I care for the wench but it will be a good cover for me.”
The orc and Haelithion disappeared in the midst of the crowd of orcs. Leaving behind a stunned group of elves.
Celahir, Taurnil, Erestor, and Arafangwen could barely restrain themselves from rushing at Haelithion. But Firondoiel could do nothing but stand still in shock. She couldn’t believe what she had heard. Her Haelithilion was a traitor. He had lied to her. He never loved her. The world seemed to spin. Firondoiel felt extremely cold as she began to fall. She braced herself for a hard impact with the ground. But it never came.
Celahir had been seething with anger until he looked at Firondoiel. She was deathly pale and she seemed to have difficulty breathing. Then she started to sway. He quickly grabbed her as she fell and held her close. Looking into her white face he whispered, “Stay with us Firondoiel.” Celahir felt his heart stop as Firondoiel’s eyes closed and her body went limp.
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Post by Arafangwen on Aug 30, 2003 17:45:26 GMT -5
"Firondoiel! Lady Firondoiel! Please!" Arafangwen turned at the soft pleading. Celahir was cradling Firondoiel in his arms, her eyes were closed.
"She must have fainted!" Arafangwen thought to herself suddenly.
"Celahir! Pick her up and let's go!" Arafangwen hissed in his ear, her anger was at an all time high and Firondoiel's faint was the only thing preventing her from crushing Haelithion's head into the ground at the moment. Celahir did as she asked, he didn't need to be asked twice. Arafangwen turned to Taurnil and Erestor and gruffly hit them both in the arm, signaling for them to leave. Erestor looked at her with disaproval, but she wasn't paying him any attention, she was more focused on the piece of rope in her hands which she was wringing with all of her might. Erestor stepped forward to get her attention, but Taurnil grabbed his arm before he could.
"You don't want to mess with her right now! Trust me!" Said a wary Taurnil with a look of caution on his face, as if to accentuate the fact, the rope Arafangwen had been handeling snapped in two pieces sending her arms flying to her sides where they stayed clutching the rope with white nuckles. Erestor looked back at Taurnil with gratitude as they sped up to keep pace with the others. As they entered their camp, Arafangwen threw down the pieces of rope and ran to her pack, whipping out her pallet onto the ground and beckoned Celahir to lay Firondoiel onto it. Instead, Celahir walked over and sat on it himself, not letting his grip on Firondoiel loosen. Arafangwen reached over and touched her forehead, she was getting colder by the second, her pulse was weakening. Panic grew in her eyes, Firondoiel was dying of a broken heart, she turned to Erestor who had stood beside her against the advice of Taurnil, her eyes wild.
"Get a fire started!" She yelled, startling him, but he did as told and Taurnil accompanied him. Once started, Arafangwen moved Celahir and Firondoiel over beside the fire to keep her warm. Arafangwen pulled a flagon from her side and held it to Firondoiels lips.
"Sit her up Celahir, she must drink this!" She said urgently. Cleahir gently lifted Firondoiel into a position to where she was sitting in his lap with her head leaned upon his chest, he then placed his hand gently upon her face and opened her mouth. Arafangwen poured the warm liquid into her mouth which was swallowed instinctively. She then reached over and poured a quarter of the contents of a pouch by her side into a bowl of steaming water by her side. The herbs let off a soothing fragrance which seemed to calm everyones nerves a bit. Arafangwen dipped a rag into the bowl and wrung it out before smoothing it across Firondoiels forehead bringing a little color back into her cheeks instantly. Arafangwen continued to wipe the cloth across Firondoiel's forehead and began to go down the rest of her face and her neck before running it along her arms and then back to her face. All the while, Celahir had been whispering soothing words of comfort to her in their native tounge. Arafangwen paused a moment to look up at him as she brought her fingers to his lips. Celahir quieted and looked up at her, she smiled warmly at him and leaned over until she was almost sitting in Celahirs lap as well. Arafangwen began to sing her the same lullaby that she had at the Inn as Firondoiel lay uncouncious in the protective arms of Celahir.
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Post by Firondoiel on Aug 30, 2003 21:31:11 GMT -5
Arafangwen and Celahir were beginning to despair. No change was coming over Firondoiel despite everything they were doing. Fear that her friend would die was racing through Arafangwen. A tear fell from her eye as she held Firondoiel’s hand.
Erestor and Taurnil walked over from the fireside. Taurnil surveyed Firondoiel’s color and breathing. “She is dying from a broken heart.” He said quietly.
Arafangwen all ready knew this but to hear it said was horrifying. She flew at her brother and grabbed a hold of his tunic screaming, “No! She won’t die! She won’t! Valar curse that miserable excuse for an elf!”
Erestor quickly pulled the struggling Arafangwen off of Taurnil. Her shrieks turned to sobs as he enveloped her in his arms . Erestor kissed the top of her head and began to soothe her.
Taurnil stood with a remorseful look on his face, regretting his thoughtless words greatly. He slowly walked to Arafangwen and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. “Forgive me Ara.” He said softly.
Celahir had sat quietly through the whole exchange. But on Taurnil’s words he had gripped Firondoiel’s body closer and his face turned pale. Suddenly, he heard a moan come from his lap. He looked down just in time to see Firondoiel’s eyes flutter open. Hope stirred in Celahir’s heart. “Lady Firondoiel?” he asked, praying to the Valar that he was not having a hallucination. “Celahir?” she said faintly. “Yes! I am here.” Celahir could not conceal his joy.
“Firi?!” Arafangwen rushed to the pallet and kneeled next to Firondoiel. “Oh Firi. You had me so scared! Please stay with us! You hear me Firi?” Firondoiel weakly smiled at her friend. “I’ll try Ara.” She said.
A crashing sound made the elves swiftly turn. Haelithion’s drunken voice could be heard through the trees along with the heavy tramping of orcs.
Taurnil hastened to the edge of their camp and froze for a moment before returning. “Haelithion approaches with over a score of friends.” He stated. Arafangwen’s eyes narrowed as she picked up her bow and fitted an arrow to the string.
Erestor laid a hand on her arm. Arafangwen turned to him and raised an eyebrow. “Do not kill Haelithion. We want him alive.” Erestor said softly but firmly. Arafangwen grudgingly nodded and turned to face the approaching orc party. Erestor strung his bow and stood next to Arafangwen.
Celahir gave Firondoiel her knives and propped her against a tree. He then stood in front of her protectively. Taurnil joined him with his bow bent and fierce determination in his usually playful eyes.
They didn’t have long to wait before the orcs came stumbling into their camp. Arafangwen didn’t hesitate but released her arrow as soon as she had a target. One orc fell dead. Erestor and Taurnil felled two more before the orcs even knew what was happening. The elven bows sang as three more hit the ground.
The orcs drew their swords and charged. Erestor drew his own sword and met an orc blade with a loud clang. He swiftly swung his opponent’s sword aside and stabbed the orc. He then whirled around and separated another orc from its head.
Arafangwen continued to fire arrow after arrow. Each one went straight to its target and felled an orc. As she fired off another she saw a movement to her right. She drew her long white knife as she pivoted and slashed an orc across the chest. Black blood gushed from the wound as the orc reeled backwards from the blow. He fell to ground and did not get up again.
Taurnil was busy twirling his twin blades as he formed a graceful dance through his foes as they fell dead around him. He stabbed one orc, then ducked under another’s blade, and drove a knife into another one’s throat.
Celahir stayed as close as he could to Firondoiel as his twin blades claimed the lives of many of the hideous beings. A tall orc slammed his sword down on Celahir’s knives with a hard crash. There they stood in a contest of strength. Each straining against the other one's blade. Unknown to Celahir an orc approached him from behind with a sword brandished high.
Firondoiel saw it though. She tried to cry out but her voice was too weak to be heard. She picked up one of her blades. Her arm trembled under its weight as she raised it. When she looked back at Celahir, she saw that the orc was upon him and his blade was swinging downwards towards Celahir’s back. Fear alone gave Firondoiel the strength she needed to throw the knife. The blade went slicing through the air and buried itself deep into the side of the orc. With a horrible shriek it fell.
At that moment Celahir forcefully shoved his enemy back and with hands quicker than the eye, his knife slit the monster's throat. He then looked at the dead orc behind him and realized what had happened. He gave Firondoiel a nod of thanks before turning and sheathing his blades in an orc’s chest.
No one had seen Haelithion yet and even if they could have searched for him, they would not have found him in the fray. When the first orcs fell, Haelithion had slunk behind a tree and studied the battle. He then made his way slowly around the fight to the seemingly helpless maiden lying at the other side of the battle. Haelithion clumsily stumbled over a tree root as he walked. “Accursed thing.” He mumbled. When he looked up, he saw he was now directly behind Firondoiel. He drew his knife and approached.
Firondoiel was even paler than before. Throwing the knife had taken a lot out of her. It was now a difficult struggle to remain conscious. She had no warning of the dark one nearing her until she felt a hand grasp her throat and yank her up. With a startled gasp she turned and looked into the clouded eyes of Haelithion. His breath reeked with the smell of alcohol.
“Hello my love. Fancy meeting you here. Coming to save me, your beloved, no doubt.” He said with a sickly sweet smile.
Firondoiel stared straight into Haelithion’s eyes. “Haelithion, I know what you really are and you disgust me.”
At this Haelithion’s brow furrowed. A mask of anger covered his face. His dagger was raised high, ready to plunge down at any moment.
Firondoiel did not flinch. She merely continued to look into Haelithion’s eyes as she faced her death.
Arafangwen’s knife sank deep into the throat of a stout orc. She quickly pulled it out as the orc collapsed onto the ground with a look of pain frozen on its face. Arafangwen looked around, nearly all the orcs were slain. With a sigh she began to sheath her knife when a thought struck her. Where was Haelithion? She glanced over at Firondoiel and her heart leapt into her throat at the sight she beheld.
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Post by Arafangwen on Sept 1, 2003 11:10:49 GMT -5
Arafangwen waisted no time in whipping out her bow and fitting an arrow to it, aiming carefully yet quickly she let loose the string. *Zing!* The arrow found it's target and a startled Haelithion stumbled back holding his hand before him in shock, there was an arrow through it. Celahir turned at the sound of a frightened cry from Firondoiel and just caught her before her head hit the ground in a faint. Arafangwen ran over and checked to be sure the Firondoiel still lived. After finding a weak pulse, she stood, anger seething in her eyes she approached Haelithion who was still holding his hand in shock.
"You dog!" She screamed at him as she threw her bow aside. Haelithion looked at her sharply only to find a boot flying at his head. Hitting her taget, Arafangwen's eyes filled with tears of anger as she venimously kicked the elf again and again, cursing him in the elvish tounge, suceeding in bringing him to uncounsiousness with blood flowing from his hand, mouth and nose. Erestor ran over and picked her up from behind, her legs flailing in the air, still kicking and cursing at Haelithion through her tears.
"Shhhh, hush melamin! He may do no more harm. Calm down Ara, I need you to calm down." Erestor soothed in her ear as he turned her around in his firm embrace and kissed the top of her head again and again. Arafangwen began to sob in his arms, drowning her sorrows in his sweet words and kisses.
Meanwhile, the whole time that Arafangwen had been letting Haelithion know how she felt, Celahir had been clutching Firondoiel close to him, rocking back and forth and kissing her forehead. He looked down at her cold form sweetly.
"Firondoiel, I have something to confess to you." He whispered in her ear, tears coming to his eyes. "Throught that whole battle, the only thing I could think of was 'what would I do if I lost you?'. I would surely fade even as you are doing now," Celahir drew a deep breath and finished his sentence."of a broken heart." He whispered even softer. Celahir leaned closer to Firondoiel as his eyes clouded with tears unshed, so close to her that he could feel her faint warm breath on his face. His tears began to fall at the thought of her never breathing again and he began to cry over her, his tears falling upon her face and if he had know it, intermingling with her own.
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Post by Firondoiel on Sept 2, 2003 20:33:04 GMT -5
Firondoiel looked around her. She was standing on a narrow path in the midst of the some woods. Her sight was restricted because of a thick fog that covered the area giving it an eerie feeling. Not knowing what else to do, she began to slowly walk down the path. It grew darker with every step she took. Yet she went on.
"Firondoiel, I have something to confess to you." A voice said.
Firondoiel searched wildly for the speaker but could not find anyone. The voice seemed strangely familiar. Her brain seemed to be as foggy as her surroundings, for she had no idea who the voice belonged to.
"Throughout that whole battle, the only thing I could think of was 'what would I do if I lost you?'” Continued the voice
‘Battle? What battle?’ thought Firondoiel. Vague glimpses of hideous creatures rushing towards four tall figures came to her mind. The four figures seemed to be surrounded by light. ‘Who are they?’ Firondoiel asked herself. She felt like she should know, yet her mind was blank.
“I would surely fade even as you are doing now…of a broken heart."
Confusing filled Firondoiel. She was fading? No, that didn’t seem possible. But something did seem wrong. What should she do? Scared and unsure, she stood, alone and still, in the midst of the path.
The Red Rose Inn was now in view of the weary and heart sick elves that were riding down the hill. They had ridden all through the night and most of the day in hopes of reaching the inn before dusk. Exhaustion was evident in the droop of their shoulders and the limping of their horses’ feet.
Erestor had lifted Arafangwen onto his horse some time during the night. He now held her close as her head rested on his chest in sleep.
Celahir held the unconscious Firondoiel in his arms. She had seemed to improve over the night but he was anxious to get her to the healers in Mirkwood.
The last of the party was Taurnil, who was leading the Haelithion’s horse and its miserable rider behind him. Ever since Haelithion had revived he was determined to be a nuisance. Poor Taurnil, who was the one in charge of Haelithion, had to bear all the troubles he caused. Including Haelithion excessively moaning over his wounded hand and whimpering about an unbearable headache. Taurnil had patiently born all this in silence though and had placed all his concentration on the long ride. Haelithion had finally gotten the message and quieted down
Now the party turned in the rose bush lined lane and headed towards the inn.
Firondoiel still stood in the path lost in thought. She was having several blurry images flash through her mind.
Two young elven girls, one with golden-red hair and the other with dark brown, sat beside a creek. They were laughing and talking.
Then came the image of a tall proud looking elf warrior standing next to a beautiful elven maiden with brown hair.
The following vision horrified Firondoiel, even though she didn’t understand why. It was the beautiful elf maiden lying, pale and still, on a bed in a dark room. Next to the bed knelt the dark headed elven girl from the creek. Her face was buried in her hands and her sobs filled the deathly room.
Next, was the dark headed elf sitting in the lap of the proud warrior. Tears streamed down her face as he rocked her back and forth singing softly to her.
Then, sitting on a horse, was the dark headed maid. She was older now. With her was the she-elf with golden-red hair. Also there were two other elves, both handsome and with dark hair. As they mounted and prepared to ride off, something frightened the dark maiden’s horse. The horse reared and the maid fell, but she did not hit the ground. One of the handsome elves had caught her and now gently set her on the ground.
Now an elf with blonde hair and a *chitter, chitter*y grin stood before her. Firondoiel’s heart leapt, for what reason she knew not. The blonde elf was familiar, yet all the images had seemed familiar to her. But she felt fear at this one. The elf looked her in the eye. He stretched his hand towards her and spoke. “Mae govannen meleth nín.” He said.
Firondoiel looked at the hand, then back in his eyes. She wanted to speak to him, but something held her back.
Her silence seemed to offend him. “What is this? Do you not know me?” he asked.
Firondoiel slowly shook her head.
“Do you not know me, or do you not trust me? You have no reason to not trust me now do you?” he said smoothly.
Firondoiel studied him for a moment, and then slowly began to stretch her hand out to him. The elf quickly grasped her hand and held it tightly when Firondoiel tried to yank it back.
“What is wrong vendë vanya?” he asked.
“Let go of me.” she demanded.
The elf raised an eyebrow. “Why do you wish me to let you go? You didn’t use to treat me like that.”
Firondoiel’s eyes widened. “What do you mean?”
“Why, we are going to be married. Don’t you remember? You told me you loved me more than anything in the world.” He said with concern etched in his face.
“I…I did?” Firondoiel stammered. Confusion was whirling through her again.
“Yes you did.” He replied. “You are not well. Come with me.”
“Come where?” Firondoiel asked.
“Just follow me.”
He turned and began to walk down the path but Firondoiel didn’t move. Feeling her resistance, he looked back at her questioningly.
“I don’t want to go that way.” She said.
“Oh? And why not vanimelda?”
“Weren’t there some other elves?” she asked hesitantly.
He started and looked sharply at her. “No, of course not.”
“No….” she repeated vacantly.
“Now, let’s go.” He tried to lead her away but again she refused.
”No, there were some. They’re my friends. I need to go back to them.” She said strongly.
“You’re confused Firondoiel. You need to come with me.” He said firmly.
She stared at him. “Come.” He commanded. This time, Firondoiel didn’t resist as he started to lead her away.
Celahir had carried Firondoiel up the stairs and now laid her on the bed in a room in The Red Rose Inn. Exhausted, he sat on the bed beside her and sighed heavily.
He looked up as Taurnil walked in the room. “How is she?” he asked.
Celahir sighed again, “There is no improvement. But she is not any worse.”
Taurnil nodded thoughtfully. “Celahir, she won’t make it back to Mirkwood. We can’t drag her on that journey.”
“What would you have me do Taurnil?” Celahir snapped.
Taurnil flinched slightly. “It might help if her father was here.”
“Why do you think that?” Celahir asked wearily.
“Well, he is some one she loves very much. His presence might bring her back.”
Celahir thought for a moment. “You are right. But he is not here.”
“I am ready to leave right now.” Replied Taurnil.
Celahir looked at his brother admiringly. He knew how tired Taurnil had to be, but Taurnil always thought of others before himself. Celahir stood and place a hand on Taurnil’s shoulder.
“Farewell, my brother. May the grace of the Valar go with you.”
Taurnil smiled and clasped his brother’s hand before turning and leaving.
Suddenly, Celahir sensed something was wrong. He whirled around and looked at Firondoiel. Her face was even whiter than before and she was barely breathing. He checked her pulse and found that it was weakening rapidly.
“Firondoiel!” he called. “Don’t go, please. Firondoiel?!”
Tears were flowing from his eyes as he leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss on Firondoiel’s cold lips.
“I love you.” He whispered.
Firondoiel stopped and whirled around. “Celahir?” she said softly.
“Firondoiel? What is the trouble now?”
Firondoiel turned back to face the blonde elf. “I don’t want to go with you. You’ve been lying to me. I remember my friends.”
His eyes darkened. “You have no choice but to come with me.” His voice was like ice and his eyes held a cruel glimmer
Firondoiel’s memory came rushing back. “Let me go Haelithion!” she demanded. She began to struggle against him and gasped in pain when he tightened his grip.
“Why should you want to go back?” he asked menacingly. “You were going to marry a traitor. You fought with your father about my integrity. Why do you think they would want you back?”
Firondoiel froze. What if he was right? She had been a fool and she had hurt her father and her friends.
“I love you.”
Celahir’s voice was clearly heard. Firondoiel’s eyes misted with tears as she realized something she had known deep down for a long time. She closed her eyes and whispered “I love you too Celahir.”
She could no longer feel Haelithion’s hold on her wrist. When she looked up, she saw that he was gone. The fog and the woods began to fade. It was getting brighter. Firondoiel sighed and shut her eyes.
When she opened them she saw Celahir sitting before her.
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Post by Arafangwen on Sept 3, 2003 16:36:04 GMT -5
"Let me go Erestor! Please! Let me go!" Arafangwen cried angrily. Erestor held her arms firmly behind her, she was lunging away from him towards the elf before her. Haelithion sneered at her predicament as he reached up with his uninjured hand and wiped the blood from his nose. Arafangwen made a sound like that of a growl and attempted once more to wrench her arms free from Erestor's protective grip and lunge at Haelithion when he laughed at her once more. Erestor turned Arafangwen around to face him.
"Arafangwen, do you not see that it bring him joy to see you like this?" He wispered to her. Arafangwen turned and looked at Haelithion. He was laughing and sneering at her anger. Arafangwen sighed and smiled at Erestor.
"I am sorry melamin. Thank you for putting up with me." She said softly, she kissed him lightly before turning and leaving the room and shutting the door behind her. Haelithion laughed.
"Is your little girlfriend giving up so easily?" He sneered at Erestor. Erestor turned, his eyes slowly clouding with anger.
"No Haelithion, she has learned what you have not." He said trying to keep his anger out of his voice. Healithion laughed again.
"And what is that? Giving up? Hah!" He laughed, spitting at Erestor's feet.
"No Haelithion, she has learned that not all anger is good." He replied calmly. Haelition stood and faced, his face clouded with anger.
"You're a horroble exuse for an elf!" He cried as he lunged at Erestor, his good hand balled in a fist, ready to strike. Erestor calmly caught his hand and twisted it so that his arm was held behind his back.
"I think it's time for a nap." He said as he placed his knee into Haelithion's back, pushing him forward onto the bed. He then grabbed a rope that he had placed by the bed for that purpose and tied Haelithion's hands behind his back before gagging him and walking out the door, leaving a completely bound Haelithion on the bed.
Erestor found Arafangwen sitting on a bench in the middle of one of the numerous rose gardens. He silently walked up behind her and placed a tender hand on her shoulder.
"Erestor, thank you for staying my hand." Arafangwen said softly as she stood and faced him. Erestor looked down at her tenderly.
"I will be there as often as I can to help you my lissë." He said quietly as he reached down and brushed his lips on hers in a tender kiss. Arafangwen looked up at him as he wrapped his arms around her waist. She pulled her arms up as laced her fingers around his neck pulling him towards her and drawing him into a passionate kiss. When she pulled away, Erestor looked down at her with a smile.
"Just another reason I love you." He said sweetly leaning down to kiss her again. Arafangwen suddenly pulled away with a troubled look on her face.
"What's wrong Ara?" He asked anxiously staring into her eyes.
"Something has happened. I have to go to Firi!" She cried as she turned and ran to the room where she had seen Celahir take her. Erestor debated whether to follow her or not, but he decided to check on their begrudging companion.
"She needs some time to be alone with Firondoiel." He thought to himself as he exited the garden in the other direction.
Arafangwen took a deep breath and opened the door, she walked in and gasped. Firondoiel was awake and cradeled in Celahir's arms. Celahir looked up at her entrance. Arafangwen smiled at the akward look on his face. Firondoiel turned to see who had entered.
"Arafangwen!" She cried starting to stand but her legs buckling under her. Celahir reached forward and caught her waist. He turned her towards him and kissed her forehead and then set her on the bed before leaving the room and closing the door behind him. Arafangwen watched him leave in silence, once the door closed she turned to Firondoiel.
"Oh my goodness Firi!" She cried in excitement. "What was that all about?" She asked sitting beside her friend and taking her hands which she noticed were full of their former life and color. Firondoiel smiled back at her, her face shining even brighter and a blush creeping onto her face.
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Post by Amarië on Sept 3, 2003 17:51:06 GMT -5
Lila, her curly brown hair sticking to her shoulders, made her way to the stables, her hobbit feet walking very swift and quetly. Lighting was popping off in every direction, the storm was growing worse. Lila knew Amarië must have been in the middle of it, and she feared the worst. Her heart began to pound as a rustle in the bushes made her jump. She walked, keeping a steady pase, to the stables. The horses inside new the weather outside was bad, as they stomped their hooves in there stalls.
Lila noticed Amarië horse was gone, so was she. Getting some carrots out of the tack room, Lila gave the horses some to calm them. A gush of wind blew all of the torches out, and Lila began to get afraid. The stable door creaked open and shut, as all was quiet outside, as if the storm had stopped. Only a light rain could be heard, along with Lila's hard breathing. She felt into her pocket and took out a small elven knife, big for a hobbit, but small for an elf. She held it out infront of her, stuttering, 'W-wh-who's there?'
A shadow moved to the other side of the stall's and whistled. A horse bursted in through the door, letting in a dim light in, yet Lila could not see the figure. 'Wh- who are you?' she said.
'Would you stab me with my own knife?' the sillouette said.
Lila gasped, 'I thought you had left! Why are you back? Did something happen?' a worried tone came into her voice.
'I had. I had to take care of something, but I was delayed, and forced to turn back,' she said, leading her horse into an empty stall; it had a few cuts down its back. Lila had not yet noticed them. 'Where is Ránewen?'
'I do not know, last time I saw her was with you,' Lila replied her voice return back to normal, and a storm started up again outside.
'She was supposed to stay here with you. Did you not give her the letter?' Amarië asked, walking closer to Lila.
'I left it in her room, I could not find her and some guests needed to be tended to.'
'You should not have done that, someone may have taken it. Were her bags in her room? Was there any signt that she could have been there?' Her hood towered over her face, and Lila could not even see into her eyes.
'I did not pay attention. I left the letter on her bed, thinking she would be there,' Lila answered the elf-maidennot even noticing she was soaking wet, and there was a few blood stains on her coat.
'I must go now, please tend to my horse, she has a few cuts along her back. I must go now, namárië,' Almarië continued out of the inn, in search of her dear friend.
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Post by Arafangwen on Sept 4, 2003 17:20:09 GMT -5
Firondoiel looked down at her lap, her smile widening and her face redening, both against her will. Arafangwen smiled, something big was up, she just knew it.
"Firi! I'm so glad you're better!" She said squeezing her hands to draw her attention off of her lap. "Now tell me! What was that?" Firondoiel looked up with a grin but quickly gained control over it and looked at Arafangwen seriously.
"Please, don't tell anyone alright?" She pleaded. Arafangwen shook her head and laughed.
"Alright, alright! Now what is it?!" She said anxiously. Firondoiel looked back down at her lap.
"I-, Um... Well... Celahir, um." She tried nervously, bitting her lip in emberassment.
"Yes," Arafangwen prompted. "What about Celahir? I saw him kiss you, do you like him?" She asked quickly as a relization sunk in. Firondoiel blushed profusely at the question.
"I, um, well... Yes." She said giving up her struggle with a sigh. Arafangwen let out a stiffled squeal.
"Oh my goodness Firi!" Arafangwen gasped as another realization set in. "Is that what brought you back?! Did he tell you-" She stopped herself with a hand slapped over her mouth. Firondoiel looked at her, her face almost blank with so many emotions.
"I think it was, um... Probably... Um, Did he tell me what Ara?" She asked, her emberassment mostly gone from her voice although she was still a little uncomfortable with the subject. Arafangwen looked around nervously.
"That he, um, he never told me but, the way he looks at y-" Arafangwen stopped herself again with another slap. Firondoiel simply smiled.
"He told me he loves me," She said with a sigh. "And I realized that I've loved him for a long time." She said as the relization of her true feelings set in. "I guess my mind was just clouded with Haelithion." She said with a sigh and a small frown. Arafangwen smiled at the news.
"Oh good! He's always been a little, I don't know, different around you. I always had my susipicions, but recently I saw him looking at you a lot more, and as hard as he tried, I could tell that his relationship with Haelithion was fading because of you." She said with a smile back at Firondoiel. "But I guess you picked up on that a bit."
"Yes, I suppose I just pushed it back in my mind, but he was always there whenever I needed comfort, or anything for that matter." Firondoiel said softly with a larger smile. Arafangwen grabbed her into a big hug.
"I'm so excited for you Firi! Do you think you'll get very serious with him? Remember, he's my brother and you can't hurt him!" She said shaking a stern finger at Firondoiel. Firondoiel simply laughed. "Firi! We could be sisters-in-law!" She said suddenly as the thought hit her. Firondoiel just shook her head and grined.
"Um, Ara? Could you please help me set up a bath?" She asked softly, feeling the need to relax and just think on things.
"Oh! Sure! I'm sorry I've just been babbling on and on." She said as she wrapped a gentle hand around Firondoiel's waist and helped her to the room off the side of their's which was designated for just that. She lit a small fire beneath the giant tub and waited until it was suited for bathing in and then gently set Firondoiel down on a low stool where she could reach anything she needed. She then extinguished the fire and left her be to attend to herself, walking out of the room and closing the door silently behind her. Arafangwen leaned her back against the door and covered her face with her hands as tears of joy cascaded down her cheeks.
"Arafangwen, is she better?" Erestor asked from her side, startling her a little. Arafangwen turned to him as she wiped her eyes and grinned.
"Oh, she's much better! I'm so glad Erestor! She's come back to me!" She cried happily as she threw herself into his arms.
"Don't you mean she's come back to us?" Said a grinning Celahir behind them.
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Post by Mippin on Sept 6, 2003 21:18:31 GMT -5
The skies were filled with rage. Istel reared as a bolt of lightning struck near the road. She was ready to turn back.
"No, Istel. We must go on. Amarië is out here somewhere, I know it. We have to stop her." Ránewen spoke to her mare.
Inside herself, she knew she could not go any further. Hopeless, it was all so very hopeless. She had lost her family, and now, she was sure she had lost her best friend. She was searching in vain, she knew it. And Istel was getting wild. "You're right. It is time to turn back, Istel."
They turned around and headed back to the inn. If Amarië was not to be found, it was her duty to look after Lila, and the Inn. Ránewen wept bitter tears and drew her cloak around her.
At last she had reached the inn. Ránewen spotted Lila tending to a horse, but she could not see which it was. Her eyes were blurred with tears. She decided that she could not let the young lass see her, so she hid in the brush and let Istel find her way back to the familiar stables. She listened.
"Why, Istel! I didn't see you before." Lila exclaimed when she set eyes on the horse.
At long last, Lila went back inside and Ránewen came out of her hiding spot. She was all wet, but that could not be helped. She approached the large doors, which were closed now. Reaching out a hand to open the massive door, she moved back. The door swung open, and she saw the face of someone she thought she'd never see again.
"Amarië! I thought surely you would have gone!" she rushed towards her friend and embraced her.
"Dear Ránewen! You're soaking wet, whatever were you doing out in the storm?" Amarië said.
Ránewen felt that Amarië knew the truth, but she would not admit it. "I feared that Istel was upset, and left to check on her. Then I walked about. I feared I should never see you again."
"Come, let's get you into more comfortable attire, then you shall have food and drink!" Amarië then beckoned Lila to lead her to her room and see that all was to her liking.
The hobbit scurried off and Ránewen followed. After a bit Ránewen came back. She was dressed in a white raiment, lined with a belt of flowers and a single jewel hung from a chain around her neck. As she stepped into the main room, the jewel sparkled and gave off a radiant beam, red as fire.
She came upon the table where she first told her story in full. She sat and sipped a bit of fine elvish wine. Pausing a moment, she lifted her voice in question. "I know you left, for dear Lila could not remove the letter without me seeing it. What brought you back?"
With these words, Ránewen took out the letter and placed it gently on the table. She then looked up at Amarië. They sat for a while, each reading the others tale like a book with no words.
'Why? Why did you spare me Amarië? Whatever the reason may be, I thank you.' Ránewen thought silently. Perhaps she would never get her family back, but for the present she had her friendship. She felt a tear roll down her cheek. A tear of happiness.
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Post by Firondoiel on Sept 9, 2003 21:21:07 GMT -5
Firondoiel sat beside the window of her room. Ara and her had slept soundly all through the night. That morning Erestor had surprised them with two dresses he had bought in the village for them. Both of them were very grateful for they were both tired of their uniforms. Now Arafangwen had gone to check on her brother and fiancé leaving Firondoiel alone with her thoughts.
There was only one something (or should we say someone) on Firondoiel’s mind. A dreamy smile was adorning her face when she heard the door opening. “You’re back are you?” Firondoiel asked jokingly, still facing the window. “I thought you had gotten lost Ara.” She said turning to grin at her friend. To her surprise, she found that it was not Arafangwen that stood behind her.
“Celahir!” Firondoiel cried. “What...How…?”
“Ara was distracted by a certain elf by the name of Erestor so I thought I would come see you.” Celahir said with a warm smile.
Firondoiel smiled back. “I’m very glad you did.”
Celahir pulled up a chair opposite her and for a long time they talked. Mostly of their past and times as children together. After laughing over a prank they had done long ago on Taurnil and Arafangwen, Firondoiel turned and looked back out her window at the vast rose garden.
Celahir followed her gaze then asked. “Would you join me for a stroll in the garden?”
Firondoiel’s smile lit the room. “Thank you Celahir.”
Celahir stood and gently pulled her to her feet. Firondoiel leaned heavily on his arm as they walked through the hall and down the stairs. The sunlight rushed to greet them as they stepped out of the inn. Firondoiel breathed in deeply and unconsciously laid her head on Celahir’s shoulder. Arm in arm they walked through the garden.
They did not speak but enjoyed the beauty of Arda. Celahir, however, soon began to study Firondoiel. She was well on the way to recovery. But her face was still pale and her eyes held a sad look that hurt Celahir to see. He also noted that she tired very quickly.
Celahir led her to a small bench between two rose bushes. Firondoiel sat and sighed with weariness. Celahir remained standing and watched her with concern. The light of Arien brightly shone on her and a gentle breeze blew through her hair. Firondoiel looked over the roses and saw one drooping as if in defeat. She carefully lifted it and cradled it in her hand.
As Celahir gazed at the elf maiden he loved he knew something he had to say. He sat down next to her and softly said “Firondoiel?”
She instantly turned from the roses and fixed her eyes on him. “What is it Celahir?” she asked. Celahir looked back into her blue eyes and said, “I have something I wish to tell you. Something I have wanted to tell you for a long time. I never said anything though because I was… afraid to. But during these past few days, when I almost lost you…” Celahir’s voice choked and he bowed his head.
Firondoiel laid one hand on his arm and the other she placed under his chin and lifted his head up so his eyes met hers again. “Celahir, you didn’t lose me. You and you alone brought me back. I heard your voice and you gave me the strength to fight. When we were young, you were always there for me. You always looked out for me. I thought of you as my older brother. I refused to recognize any deeper feelings. But my mind realized yesterday, something that my heart has long known, I love you.” She spoke with such passion that Celahir’s eyes shone.
He wrapped his arms around Firondoiel and pulled her close to him. He then leaned forward and captured her lips in a gentle kiss.
When they parted Firondoiel rested her head on Celahir’s chest as he hugged her to him. She sighed softly and closed her eyes. Celahir lightly stroked her hair, enjoying this moment. Yet there was one more thing he wanted to say.
“Firondoiel,” she heard Celahir say. “Would you consent to be my wife?”
Firondoiel’s breath hitched. Tears filled her eyes as she felt joy consume her. Her silence however, unnerved Celahir. Thinking he had somehow offended her he started to apologize, “I’m sorry Firondoiel….” He was cut off by Firondoiel pressing her lips to his. She pulled away and said, “Oh Celahir!” she stopped and a troubled look crossed her face. “Do you truly want me to? I have caused so much trouble. I was so easily deceived by him.”
Celahir brought his fingers to her lips, silencing her. “I will not allow you to say such things about yourself.” Firondoiel sighed heavily and looked down. Celahir continued, “We were all deceived.”
“I feel like everything Haelithion has done is my fault. My father didn’t trust him. But I fought for Haelithion and I know I hurt Ada.” Firondoiel spoke so softly that Celahir could hardly hear her.
Celahir placed a hand on her shoulder and said “Firondoiel look at me.” She shyly brought her eyes to meet his. Celahir felt a sharp pang in his heart to see the how sad they had become. “You cannot blame yourself for what has happened. Haelithion would be delighted to know that you did. The orc attack would have still happened even if you didn’t believe in Haelithion. Your father is on his way here now. He is not angry with you. He wanted to come after you himself but he was forced to stay in Mirkwood in light of the attack. He asked for us to bring you back to him.”
Firondoiel squeezed Celahir’s hand. “Thank you.” She whispered. Celahir smiled tenderly at her and raised her hand to his lips. “I don’t believe I answered your question did I?” asked Firondoiel. Celahir watched her closely as her face broke into a bright smile. “Yes I will marry you.” Her voice was quiet but her eyes shone with happiness now instead of despair.
Celahir’s smile was every bit as radiant as Firondoiel’s. He pulled her to him again for a long, passionate kiss.
Long they stayed in that enchanted rose garden. Sitting in each other’s arms and reveling in the other’s presence.
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Post by Amarië on Sept 12, 2003 16:25:20 GMT -5
'Do not get so overjoyed yet. I shall continue on my journey when there is not such danger afoot,' the elf said, a sense of fear could be heard in her voice.
'Well, what is the danger, what could it be. There has not been anything of any danger in these parts in a long while. What happened that was so bad it forced you to turn back, what could it be?' Ránewen asked eargerly.
Amarië opened her mouth to speak, but she was soon interupted by Lila, who came and whispered something in the elf's ear. 'Yes, yes, I shall be there soon.' The hobbit walked away and Amarië looked into Ránewen's eyes. 'I must go now. I shall talk to you about my troubles later. It seems my black mare needs me now. She was severly injured when I happened to face that certain danger,' The elf maiden put up the hood on her coat and walked out into the rain, leaving Ránewen sitting there contemplating over what that danger could be.
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