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| 17. Wind-Singers Volume III.I: The Final Quest; Ivordir and Daerfalas journey into Gondor to face the Enemy and find tidings of Guldrambor | |
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| Tweet Topic Started: Apr 5 2015, 04:14 PM (4,131 Views) | |
| Ivordir | Jun 28 2015, 09:36 PM Post #161 |
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Chapter CLXXXI: Beloved Prince Amarthon dwelt with Amanuiron for several months, as he was taught and trained to beware, of a wicked servant of a Dark Lord, a foul, sinister Elf, named Yucalwe, at times, known as Ranyaro. And long did Amanuiron rest with him, feeding him, and attending tales of the past. Then Amanuiron explained: "Yucalwe was once a great Elven Prince in the West, but his heart had turned to folly... grave folly... and as a follower of Feanor, he came beneath the Doom. You must understand that this Elf Yucalwe did not repent of his crimes. He lurks in Gondor to this day. He is attempting to take it over, to establish himself as King, nay, as a Dark Lord himself!" Darkness seemed to grow in the cave around them, but the sun peeked through some of its natural shafts as if great windows overlooking the sea. "How horrible...." Amarthon's face paled. Amanuiron nodded, "Yes, my beloved......... I have chosen you, the Valar have chosen you, to help us find and face this evil, for the Age of Men is near its dawn... and the Elves must pass away from it... forever..." Amarthon knelt before Amanuiron, kissing the hem of his cloak, "I, Amarthon of Gondor, shall do this. Command me... My Master." Amanuiron seized him by the shoulders, "Beloved.... you shall defeat him. I know you will. He has faced many foes before, but he has not faced one like you. You are beautiful.... your beauty will prevail over his falsity...........the time is coming soon, when you shall return to Gondor, and find him........." Amarthon began to sob, "I'll obey....... but I want to stay with you forever...." Amanuiron smiled, "Very well. For a time, you may stay, until you are prepared." At this, Amarthon dried his tears, "Let me serve you.... let me attend you....." Amanuiron laughed as Amarthon grabbed the train of his iredescent, refulgent cloak, that then seemed to stretch across a great swath of the cavern. They processed to a place of rest, where they lay down together, side by side, as Amanuiron billowed the cloak overtop of them, as they passed into the warmer darkness... Amarthon's heart throbbed, and then he buried his face in the cool, smooth folds of the cloak, as he fell asleep, beneath Amanuiron's eyes. And at dawn, he beheld Amanuiron outside the cave, basking in the sunlight, as his cloak billowed powerfully in the winds of the sea, flying and flickering in great domes and vales of beauty. Amarthon had not felt this way since he was naught but a little child. And he rested in the flapping folds of Amanuiron's cloak, in billowing winds. And Amanuiron embraced him deeply, "You are going to be a Prince... a great Prince of Men... come, I made this for you." And Amanuiron unveiled an equally resplendent cloak, huge and billowing in its train, and he wrapped it warmly around Amarthon's shoulders. They stood, their cloaks streaming and billowing in the sunlight. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 28 2015, 09:37 PM Post #162 |
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Chapter CLXXXII: Visions of the West Then Amanuiron bade Amarthon chase him. Amanuiron ran down the steppes into the cave, his cloak billowing majestically behind him, flickering, glimmering, gleaming brightly. It flew and swayed from wall to wall as he darted through the passages, Amarthon following, trying not to step on the cloak before him. When they reached the bottom, Amanuiron spiraled behind Amarthon, wrapping him in their cloaks, kissing him deeply yet again, "Beloved.... now you shall behold something greater that you have not beheld before....." Amanuiron lifted the cloak. Before his eyes, Amarthon beheld the slopes of the Ezellohar, the Light of the Two Trees shining, the vast, fertile plains of Valinor stretching before them. And they seemed to walk, and far, as they passed into Eldamar, and beheld Tirion upon Tuna in all its glory. But there were no Elves to be seen. Only the two of them passed through its majestic, marble streets, until they passed through the doors of the Citadel itself. Amanuiron smiled, "Ar-Pharazon himself sought to sit upon that Throne. Come, I bid you. Come, Prince Amarthon of Gondor. Sit upon the Throne before you." And Amarthon ascended the mighty steps, his cloak billowing majestically behind him. And he sat and gazed aloft. All the room had suddenly filled to the brim with men. And his Lord-Father was there, and many more besides. And Amanuiron proclaimed, "So it shall be thus decreed by all the Valar. That, from beyond the Circles of the World, it shall be sung, that men shall supplant the rebellious Eldar, and reign immortal in the West. To do this, the rebellious Eldar, who followed Feanor, must be destroyed. It was they who poisoned the minds of men to oppose the new regent of the older world, the regent who shall come to reign eternal, over all of Arda, excluding the West, that shall belong to Men alone. He is greater than I, this regent. For I shall reign by your side, Prince Amarthon, as your Steward and adviser. But he who shall reign in Arda? He is vastly misunderstood. It is true that he bred certain strange types of beings to his service. He did so because he had no choice, because Gondor was unwilling to comply, especially when the rebellious Eldar, with their foul, black, Feanorian magics, sank the Isle of Numenor. You shall behold him: Annatar, Giver of Gifts, the rightful Lord of the Rings. But you shall not see him hither, not until his victory is complete. But his Eye shall see you, bestowing his favor upon you." After a time, as Amarthon gazed on in silence, Amanuiron smiled, "Bury your face back inside of your cloak. For none of this has yet come to pass. Know thereof, it is the bidding of the Valar, in time, it shall." And Amarthon obeyed, the glory of the West passing into memory, as he beheld himself back in the lower caverns. They retired to Amanuiron's chambers. And Amarthon rested his head against Amanuiron's robes, feeling every breath, inhaling and exhaling smoothly. And in time, he closed his eyes, passing into a warm, deep sleep, as Amanuiron stroked his hair tenderly, whispering "You are my Prince... my noble, beautiful, Prince..." as Amarthon softly whispered, "You are my beloved Master...." A tear nearly came from Amanuiron's left-eye, as he remembered Yucalwe, and the days now long since past, before Melkor had been released from Mandos, before........ He wondered if he was truly acting, as he had ever played his part. But something stirred in him as he gazed softly at Amarthon's warm, peaceful, sleeping face. It frightened him. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 28 2015, 09:40 PM Post #163 |
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Chapter CLXXXIII: The Master's Bidding The next morning, Amarthon awoke. The cloak was neatly draped across his tunic-clad body. There was a pleasant scent. And the sound of birds, calling. He did not know which kind of birds they were. He stood and slowly walked away from his chamber. He fluttered his cloak about him as if vast wings, playfully. He flew through the caverns, fast on his feet, the cloak whipping behind him. He entered a fair chamber, overlooking the sea. Amanuiron stood there. He turned, smiling, raising his arms, the wind blowing the wings of his cloak. He laughed as Amarthon embraced him. They held each other close and deep. The wind surged the cloak across their faces. Amarthon buried his head in the warm, smooth fabric. Amanuiron's eyes were glistening, "My Prince... I have a task for you. If you care to listen." They sat down. He poured the wine. He drank the wine quickly. Then he smirked, "The grave foe of whom I told you...... is lurking somewhere in Gondor. And you must find him. I have sent another, one of my servants.... he has grown older in age, he dwells on Tolfalas in the Bay of Belfalas.... I have sent him instruction, with several of my Southron loyalists...... I have heard that all is nearly prepared. The Southrons are loyal to me, not all of them, but some, who bear the same noble, Numenorean blood of Gondor, the blood so long disinherited by false Kings..... the Kings since Eldacar..... one star arose, Castamir....... but he sorrowfully faltered........... your fate shall not be his. You must return to your Lord-Father, and to your society, and enter into it once more. You must enter into the service..... word has reached my ears of one called Ballithor, a minor noble of Dol Amroth.... who has a heart filled to the brim with ambition. You must feed it...... and slowly warn him of this Yucalwe over time, if he has come to know of him........ he may know him by his other name, Ranyaro...." Amarthon nodded patiently, drinking his wine fast, as the warm, velvety liquid surged down his throat, overpowering his senses. Amanuiron smiled, "You shall depart within the week. And this time, my servants shall attend you lavishly." They deeply embraced, Amarthon burying his lips in Amanuiron's cheeks, and Amanuiron prepared him. He revealed the liquid to him, explaining that while it is good for men to drink it sparingly, it is toxic to the Eldar. The week passed by solemnly. Amarthon did not wish to leave. But Amanuiron soothed his heart with fair and pleasant words. And often they reclined together, wrapped together in their cloaks, resting silently. Amanuiron began to fear his tenderness was more than a mere illusion. Near the week's conclusion, several Easterlings came, richly-clad, bowing before Amanuiron and Amarthon. They robed and dressed Amarthon lavishly, in clothes that seemed Gondorian in origin, patterned with precision. And then they led him across the East, all of the way through the Lands of Brown, then south into Dagorlad. They journeyed for a month in a harsh and desert waste. Amarthon's heart was saddened by his forced departure from Amanuiron, but he girded himself in the thought of need, of his mission. He had last gazed upon that cave as they rode away, Amanuiron's hand outstretched, the wind billowing his regulent splendour. Then he vanished from sight. Only a trace of shadow remained, vanishing into the darkness of the cave. But Amarthon thought little of it. When they camped on the Slag-Mounds, they were in sight of the Gates of Mordor. The Gates opened for an Easterling horde to pass through. And gazing, he sighted the Tower of Barad-dur, far across the dark plains of ash. And Amarthon bowed before it. Then the Easterlings guided him along the borders of the Wetwang, bringing him to the Anduin across from the Mouths of the Entwash. Then, they bade him farewell, and returned to their Master. But Amarthon continued to Cair Andros, and passing through, so came at length to the Pelennor itself. And he rode past the White City, the banners of the Steward flying gracefully in the sunlight, and word came to his Lord-Father, that his son had been sighted. His Lord-Father set forth from Pelargir with his men, meeting his son in Lossarnach, embracing him warmly, weeping. And Amarthon had smiled deeply. He had promised to Amanuiron that he would maintain his secrecy, save perchance, to one whom he thought he loved. And so he told Arhbaineth in brief, and Arhbaineth fled from Gondor in the wake of it. And all the time, Amarthon whispered in Ballithor's ear, since his own Lord-Father had Ballithor's favor. He had even attempted to befriend Baralinor. And Amarthon marched along with the rest of the men, from Edhellond through Belfalas, Tadrent, Tarlang, Calembel, Ethring... Linhir, and now, the time had come. Ballithor had informed him of his plans, if his son should fail. Amarthon passed into the room. Baralinor gazed at him in horror from the ballroom in the House of Melimir. Sainion and Arhbaineth crept behind him and Abrazan. The four sensed each other in the shadows, whipping back the cloaks, drawing weapons of their own. Arhbaineth and Sainion drew their hidden daggers. They sneaked warily behind the doorway. Edited by Ivordir, Jun 28 2015, 11:22 PM.
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:49 PM Post #164 |
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Chapter CLXXXIV: The Reckoning Begins Auravon, brother of Arancir, stood firmly at Amarthon's side as they marched inside the room. Malgelir stood near at hand, defying Ivordir. Malgelir stammered, "My scholarly friends.... are you deaf? Reveal what you have learned of the Silver Swan to 'Captain' Ivordir...." As a pair the two scholars bowed, nearly in sync. The elder, a wisened Man with a light grey dusting his charcoal beard, was the better practiced; the younger, his pale- haired companion, was more clumsy in his movements, though no less sincere. "Captain," they said, regarding Ivordir. "My Lady," said the Elder, as he greeted Melimir. "I am Balharn. This is my pupil, Thorunnd. Malgelir speaks truly! We have...information. Once, in my quest for knowledge, I, along with my pupil here," Balharn gestured to the younger Thorunnd, "learned that the House of the Silver Swan were traitors! Indeed, they backed the Castamirans, and continue to do so," Balharn paused, all but spitting the name, "and for that knowledge, we were unjustly sent by Ballithor himself on this journey! A punishment, for learning the truth of his House!" Ivordir leaned forward intently, "I might have guessed, due to Baralinor's reaction to Thanguron's ill-fated words..... I knew there were Castamiran sympathies.....But I was not part of them. Malgelir, know that I am sorrowful for your ordeal. We are caught nonetheless...." Malgelir stammered, "I demand Baralinor's execution." Ivordir sighed, "And then Ballithor will execute us all. Is this your desire?" Again, Balharn spat; angry as he was, and visibly so, for too long had he held his tongue, and for what? Malgelir stroked his short beard thoughtfully, "No.......... but to whom does your allegience lie? With Ballithor, or with your own company?" Ivordir nodded tactfully, "With both, for as long as it can be maintained. This is Ballithor's Company by right. And we are Ballithor's men." Malgelir nodded, satisfied. He turned to the scholars, "As I foretold, he is a Castamiran traitor as well." Ivordir raised his voice, "No he is not!" Malgelir grinned, "Thank you.... my 'Captain.' Forgive my intrusion at this late hour. I hope to speak again on the morrow, later perhaps... on friendlier terms....." By Balharn's side, Thorunnd quivered. He looked up expectantly towards his tutor. Balharn was stony of expression. Sainion quickly beckoned to the others in the rear, to retreat back into hiding in the ballroom. Malgelir turned to leave, marching alone in the darkness. Amarthon and the others made room for him as he departed. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:50 PM Post #165 |
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Chapter CLXXXV: A Longer Night Sainion hid with Arhbaineth beneath the cloak, breathing quiety. Abrazan and Baralinor held their breaths. As soon as the sound of the echoes of Malgelir's footfalls fell away, Sainion whispered, "Back near the door." And they returned to their position. Ivordir gazed at the scholars, "I wish Sainion were here........ he, too, was unjustly punished by Ballithor...... but he has come to understand........ I wish that you two could." Thorunnd looked ready to speak, but Balharn quickly hushed him, and he turned to face Ivordir, and lifted his chin proudly. "What I know, my lord, is that treachery runs deep within the House of the Silver Swan. Such ills run deep, and must be drawn and cauterized from a wound, else the sickness spread, and all of Gondor should succumb to it. That is what I know." Amarthon approached, bowing, "My fair Captain............... his words were uncouth. In fact, I suspect treachery on his part, I fear......... this Malgelir who so eagerly recruited us........ should be placed under watch." Ivordir nodded, "Thank you both for your honesty......... I agree. Ballithor is a threat, and I am uncertain as to Malgelir's intentions............... he appears to be on your side, but....... why do you have such misgivings?" He eyed Amarthon curiously." Amarthon slily smiled, "I overheard Malgelir in Ost Anglebed...... he had conversed with Ballithor........." Ivordir wiped the sweat from his forehead, "Why am I not surprised............. who can we send to trail him at once?" The two scholars shared a look; both seemed unsure of themselves now, and Balharn faltered in his speech. Melimir rose from her seat, at once drawing silence. She took a slow step forward, her keen eyes having observed all, and with a piercing gaze she looked upon each of the Men below her, guests of her House, which had been sent into disarray. "Gentlemen," she spoke calmly, "if we do not take care, then we shall all accuse one another of treachery by evening's end. Now, Captain Ivordir, why don't you send away your Men anon? These arguments will serve us no further for now. I promise you," she looked to the scholars, and to Amarthon, whom she did not know nor trust, "that you will be safe within my House for the time being. I am certain your Captain shall come to an arrangement that shall all please you." She inclined her head to Ivordir, conceding the floor to him, and stepping aside. Her servants, appearing from the darkest corners of the hall in silence, came forth, and their bustle seemed to muster some semblance of normality. Amarthon bowed, "We shall obey you presently." Ivordir nodded, "I agree..... we have all deprived ourselves of sleep..... we shall sleep late in the morning, something few of us have known......." Amarthon and two others retreated from the room. The scholars, flustered and unused to such attention, bowed to Melimir, and followed Amarthon hence. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:51 PM Post #166 |
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Chapter CLXXXVI: Through the Shadows Sainion quickly motioned for a retreat. They retreated into the corner of the ballroom once more, as Amarthon and others strode across the hall. Amarthon's eyes felt perceptive in the shadows. He sensed someone was near.He turned, gazing into the huddled, cloaked mess in the shadows, "I know you are there. Come out of hiding." Arhbaineth revealed herself first, sighing, "So we meet again at last, Amarthon......" Amarthon stammered, "Where did you sneak off to again?" Arhbaineth sighed, "My business is my own." Sainion's mouth opened sternly, "She is betrothed to me now. No arranged marriage shall follow suit with her." Amarthon smirked, "So you mean to deny my right?" Sainion stammered, "She is not property to declare." Amarthon's smile grew, "Good." Sainion gazed into the shadows in shock, "Good....?" Amarthon laughed lightly, "Yes. I am happy for the both of you." Sainion blinked, "But I overheard you...." Amarthon stepped toward them, "Yes, you overheard me venting my frustrations..... you did not overhear my thoughts, that my Lord-Father was forcing the marriage........ and I was then adamant about obeying my Lord-Father...." Sainion gazed sharply, "And what of your professed treason? To 'obey Lord Ballithor and 'put an end to this 'Captain' and all who claim loyalty to him'"? Amarthon stepped forward once again, "You did not catch my sarcasm?" Sainion laughed, "And now you claim to have intended the opposite meaning?" Amarthon smiled, "My Lord-Father has ever schemed to make me into his 'Heir,' including by forcing marriages and by pressing me into service of one such as Ballithor. However, I must inform you, that I serve one far greater than Ballithor. And his schemes shall be for naught. And I shall choose which Lady to court within the Realm of Gondor, not my Lord-Father. I have my loyal brothers' support." Sainion's heart beamed, "Yes....... we both serve a greater power. And this power has brought Arhbaineth and I together." Amarthon nodded, "It is beautiful..... indeed. Arhbaineth, you are very beautiful, and I hope you shall not feel insulted....." Arhbaineth smirked at the shadows, "I do not. I am quite relieved......... and am even beginning to like you, if only as a friend." She noticed that her hand was outstretched in the darkness. She felt warm lips kiss them. Sainion smiled, "Very well. You say that your brothers are loyal?" Auravon approached, nodding, "Yes...... Amarthon is beloved to me. I will follow him anywhere......" Arancir stepped forward, "As he is to me. Our loyalty is immeasurable." He smiled pleasantly. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:51 PM Post #167 |
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Chapter CLXXXVII: Divided Loyalties Baralinor nodded, "It is........ strange, good, but very strange.................. for I had thought you loyal to my Lord-Father for the longest time........ ever whispering in his ear, attempting to offer him your youthful counsel.......... as if he ever appreciated it....." Amarthon nodded, "He was frustrated and told me things..... and I did attempt to counsel him.......ever rightly." Baralinor sighed, "Very well, I trust you. After all, I have betrayed my Lord-Father now. I cannot accuse you....." Auravon smiled, "My brother is ever loyal to Gondor..... to what is in her best interests........ and I fear your Lord-Father has strayed......" Baralinor nodded, "He has..........." Abrazan approached Amarthon, "One question, I have for you................ tell me..........." Abrazan's eyes glowed, "What greater Power do you serve?" Amarthon turned around, sighing with relief that the scholars had long since slipped away from the chamber, And then he returned to face Sainion's direction, gazing through the shadows, "I serve the Light that confronts our foe." Abrazan smiled, "As do we. We shall speak on the morrow, I think........" Amarthon bowed and smiled, "Until then, my dear friends. Goodnight to you all, and to you, Arhbaineth." Sainion and the others bowed and left the ballroom, returning to their rooms. Arhbaineth sought Raedwyn. But Amarthon and his brothers returned to their room. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:52 PM Post #168 |
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Chapter CLXXXVIII: Brotherly Veneration Amarthon deeply sighed when he closed the door behind them, "It was close....... very close, and these new developments perplex me....." Auravon smiled, "Beloved brother........ calm yourself. We must rest." Amarthon shook his head, "Amanuiron, our great Light.......... these others appear to serve him.......... but I cannot say. He made me promise not to tell anyone, save for the closest, whom I trust most......" Auravon embraced him, "You know you can trust me," he turned to his brother. Arancir likewise rose his arm and placed a warm hand against Amarthon's shoulder. "And I as well. But do you trust those Men?" Amarthon turned and sat down on the bed, "I do not know....... I sense something positive around, or near them.... I cannot explain it...." Auravon smirked, "There is a way to find out........" Amarthon nodded, "You mean.... to bring forth the cloak......" Arancir shrugged. "That is one way...though if you are wrong, and they are not true...you may be revealing too much..." Auravon jetted across the room, pulling it from Amarthon's pack. It was the cloak that Amanuiron had bestowed upon him. It glistened refulgently, even in the candle-light. Amarthon smiled as Auravon draped it on his shoulders, draping the folds across the bed. Amarthon smiled, "I do not think you need to worry yourself, Arancir.... my dear brother......... I will not reveal this to these men yet. It is the feeling....... if it matches, I will not distrust them, too much....." Auravon knelt before Amarthon, "How do you feel?" Amarthon's grin widened, "I feel........ empowered........... yes, the feelings are similar......." Auravon gazed at him whimsically, "To think...... the wondrous fate appointed to you............ and I will serve you faithfully....." Amarthon smiled, "At times....... I do not know........... it is more than I could have ever dreamed......." Kneeling by Amarthon's side, Arancir smiled broadly; in his gaze was a warm air of worship. "Do not doubt it. It is here, tangible, and my brother and I, we are flesh and blood." Amarthon felt ecstatic, "Come then, both of you. Sit beside me. Let us bask together in this......" And he raised his arms aloft, billowing the refulgent folds as if vast wings, awaiting them. Auravon arose triumphantly, and sat by Amarthon's right. Eagerly Arancir rose, and he sat at Amarthon's left, his fingers reaching for the cloak, grasping onto the edge of the cloth with reverence. Amarthon warmly enclosed his wings, the folds billowing around them, soothing them, as Amarthon rested his arms on his brothers' shoulders. Auravon draped several folds beyond himself and onto Amarthon. Amarthon smiled, "Arancir... Auravon... no Prince could ever have hoped, to have such brothers....... my beloved brothers......" |
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:52 PM Post #169 |
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Chapter CLXXXIX: Beloved Auravon swooned as he rested within the folds of Amarthon's cloak. He gazed upward at Amarthon's beaming eyes, his glistening lips, his impeccable smile. And he dove beneath the cloak, pressing its folds against his own face, kissing it, for as he kissed it, he felt as if he was kissing him. And he remembered back to when Amarthon had first returned, how he had rode beside Amarthon's Lord-Father, and followed Amarthon to his chambers, once they had returned to Pelargir. And the gulls were singing. And the bells were tolling. And the sun was blazing across the marbled streets, forums and plazas, and campaniles. And once they had reached Amarthon's room, Amarthon turned to Auravon, smiling, "My beloved..... I must tell you of my journey. But first, we shall drink in mirth. For I am so grateful and blessed... to have returned home alive." And Auravon's heart beamed, "I so long missed you........ I thought you lost.... I blamed... we blamed ourselves....... we should have pressed our Lord-Father to send us to Harondor with you....." Amarthon smirked, "Be at peace, my brother. For there is a greater tale. It astounds me...." He pulled out the wine at the counter, and without allowing Auravon to see, he dripped several drops from a certain phial into Auravon's wine-glass, and some for himself, thinking: "Amanuiron would approve.... it will make him more amenable to my tale...... for my tale be true...." Amarthon and Auravon smiled, drank the wine slowly and deeply, as the velvety liquid surged down their throats. There was a slight distaste, but Auravon thought nothing of it. And as he drank, his mind began to feel ethereal. His perceptions felt fluid, he felt as if he was swimming in the sea. And he turned to Amarthon, "This wine.... it is powerful...." Amarthon smiled, "I was captured by Haradrim and starved and scourged." Auravon began to tear. Amarthon clasped his shoulder, "They led me through the Variag lands... they kept me alive.... and brought me all the way to the eastern shores of Rhun....... and there, I met........I......" Auravon's eyes glistened, "Yes....?" Amarthon nodded, "You will not believe this.......... I was saved by a powerful being....... he claimed to be from the West." Auravon nodded, "I do not know why, but I...I believe you... go on..." Amarthon smirked, "He took me beneath his wing. He claims that..... we have had it wrong. All wrong. Castamir.... he tried to save our people..... and the Shadow of the East is not a shadow..... we have been held hostage by craven lords and stewards since the days of Eldacar..... the sinking of Numenor was a myth writ by them to frighten us...... and Ar-Pharazon.... he was our greatest King....... it was the Eldar who thwarted him...." Edited by Ivordir, Jul 6 2015, 09:03 PM.
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:53 PM Post #170 |
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Chapter CXL: King that May yet Be Auravon nodded even more, "I...I believe you....... yes, I can see it clearly now. But what of the Orcs' attempts to destroy us?" Amarthon cast down his own head, "They..........are fighting the false Stewards who sprang from the false Kings....... and the Haradrim and Easterlings, and Variags... they are our friends...... they built their greatest port, Umbar, in memory of Ar-Pharazon and Castamir.... our greatest, truest Kings...." Auravon drank more wine, "I agree......... we are greatly deceived. We can see it in the air.... the weariness in the eyes of our soldiers.... the purging of our Numenorean purity by lesser blood......" Amarthon smiled, embracing him, "But we, my brother, are of greater blood...... and Amanuiron, the Being who saved me.... Emissary of the West..... he is my beloved Master..... and he revealed a vision to me..... I saw the West of our myths, and he prophesized that I would sit upon the Throne that Ar-Pharazon had long sought.......... he called me his beloved Prince." Auravon's heart sang, he fell to his knees, kissing Amarthon's bare feet, "You are my beloved Prince..... I always knew it! I always felt something of greatness, whenever I stare into your eyes........ you are my Prince and future King....... let me serve you...." Amarthon helped Auravon to his feet, "You already have, my beloved brother.......... will our other brother be amenable to this?" Auravon nodded, "Yes.... and he must taste this wine....... Aracin will love it...." Amarthon's eyes beamed, "Indeed, he will........ but first, there is something I would show you......... Amanuiron was robed and clothed in an amazing cloak........ a shiny, smooth, bright cloak....... and he replicated it for me." Amarthon stood, walked over to his sack, unfurling the cloak. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:54 PM Post #171 |
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Chapter CXLI: Innocent Royal Mirth And Auravon's senses were subdued. He grabbed it, billowing it around Amarthon's shoulders, and knelt before him, "It is truly majestic...... words cannot describe...." And Amarthon seemed to grow in might and majesty. He gazed down at Auravon, smiling, "Come....... I would have you rest with me, for the road was long...." Auravon nodded, "Anything, my Prince....... my brother..... beloved." Auravon kissed the cloak, and then grabbed Amarthon's hand, kissing it deeply, his lips pressing warmly, and then Amarthon enveloped him in a deep embrace, as tears of -joy- fell gently from Auravon's eyes. And Auravon kissed him deeply on the cheek, and Amarthon returned the gesture, lips pressing warmly, and then Auravon playfully reached for the hem of the cloak, where it trailed brillantly in domes and caves behind Amarthon. He upheld the tail of the cloak, as it billowed beautifully, and they processed to one of Amarthon's places of rest. Amarthon reclined on the cushions as Auravon draped the cloak around him, kissing him on the forehead. Then Auravon reclined next to him on the cushions. Amarthon suddenly whipped a whirl of the cloak across Auravon's lap. It billowed around them both as they cuddled close together in brotherly ways. Their heads rested on the pillows. After some time, Auravon turned. Amarthon had fallen asleep, an innocent expression on his face, eyes closed, and his lips smiling. Auravon closed his eyes, resting in his dreams. And in his mind, a mental picture formed. He saw a deep, golden throne. And a chorus of beings. And he saw Amarthon crowned in all his glory. And he saw himself and Aracin sitting at his sides, beneath the wings of Amarthon's cloak. And he saw Amarthon stand within his mind, as they, his brothers, uphold the folds of his cloak as if vast wings, the entire Hall swooning at the gleaming, glittering sight. Auravon opened his eyes. Amarthon was still asleep. He leaned in, kissing him affectionately on the cheek. Amarthon opened his eyes, still smiling. And he leaned-in and kissed Auravon likewise. Amarthon's smile widened, "It is good to be home......" Auravon stretched the cloak across his own head, burying his face in the folds, kissing the folds deeply. Amarthon embraced him swiftly. And long did they rest in that embrace. Then, Amarthon felt a surge of energy. He stood, the cloak billowing around him, as Auravon caressed his feet. Amarthon smiled, "I want to play a game that the Emissary taught me......" He leaped off the cushions, the cloak streaming behind him, and smiled, "Come, try to catch me." They chased each other around the room, as Amarthon playfully outstretched his wings, the cloak flapping behind him, flashing in the sunlight that flowed through the windows. The cloak billowed and spun and twirled, and flew around in circles, forming great, vast domes over the air, ravines and vales within its wrinkled folds, glimmering gold, its bright-crimson lining flashing, streams of silver-light flowing, curling, twisting, and then Amarthon whipped it around Auravon, who ran straight into it, as they laughed, as Auravon bathed in its deep beauty, as Amarthon embraced him, deeply. And Amarthon whipped the cloak above their faces, as they found themselves lost in the warm darkness. Auravon pressed his face warmly toward Amarthon, the warm air flowing between their wet lips. They felt each others' cheeks as they kissed, and then they pressed their faces warmly into the divine fabric. Their robes draped neatly toward the floor. And they re-emerged. And Auravon trained the cloak neatly behind Amarthon, kneeling on the floor, kissing its hem deeply. But Amarthon turned, his eyes glistening, bidding him to rise, and whirled the cloak around Auravon's shoulders, unifying them both once more. And Amarthon smirked, "You are my brother........ my beloved brother......" Edited by Ivordir, Jun 30 2015, 06:54 PM.
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:54 PM Post #172 |
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Chapter CXLII: Thwarting the Eldar Auravon smiled, "My beloved brother...... my beloved Prince..... and King that shall yet be........ to think that you shall rule the West........ to think of how Elven powers conspired against us for so long....... even distorting our memories of who the Valar are............ our age is rising. But I would make one recommendation," Amarthon nodded, Auravon continued, "Leave the East to this Amanuiron.... this beloved Master whom I wish I had met........ who I may yet meet........ and leave Mordor to him as well. Let us focus only on what roles we should play, avoiding trouble with higher authorities...." Amarthon nodded, "I agree wholeheartedly. He gave us one, specific task. Apparently, one of the Eldar is hiding somewhere in Gondor." Auravon's brows bristled, "I know where to look. Elves once haunted the old harbor, fifty miles north of Dol Amroth." "Edhellond. Yes, but I would have us live a month of peace hither first. Then, we will search Edhellond." And the year was TA 3016. And they had searched Edhellond. And they had run into the House of the Silver Swan, were interrogated by Ballithor, and Ballithor had accepted them into his good graces. And they had encountered Yucalwe. And Auravon thought back to Tolfalas, when they faced the winds and rains, when he and Amarthon, he could not speak for Aracin, secretly hoped that Amanuiron would prevail, and sought to sabotage their efforts. And Amarthon had warned Ballithor of Yucalwe, the treacherous Elda. And Auravon had shuddered when he was forced to speak with Yucalwe, who measured his name with some distain, the name, Auravon. Yucalwe had spoken: "Your name reminds me of one whom I had known long ago......" Auravon could tell those twain had not parted in friendship. And ever he gazed upon Yucalwe with great fear, his cloak fanning behind him in the winds. And yet he felt entranced as he gazed upon Yucalwe. And he thought of the ballroom. He thought of those strange ones, huddled in the corner. Suddenly, his eyes blazed, as he uttered aloud in Amarthon's room: "The men! And Arhbaineth! They are wearing cloaks akin to that of Yucalwe, did you not see?!" Amarthon gazed in shock, "So that is the higher power that they claim to serve. We must be wary of them, then. But yet..... we should not withhold our friendship. For we may yet convert them to our side." Auravon nodded, returning to his sea of thoughts. He recalled how, on Tolfalas, in TA 3016, how Amanuiron's servants were defeated, and the Corsairs routed, and how Amarthon conspired to capture Yucalwe. Yucalwe had a solitary wine-flask. He had left it hanging on a tree-stump as he parted to meditate. He appeared to be out of sight. And Amarthon quickly laced the wine with nearly the whole phial of the dark, mysterious liquid. He had another phial, which he kept safe. But this, first phial, was nearly emptied. And he watched from the brush as Abrazan and Yucalwe drank whole gulps from the flask, not flinching at the taste. Abrazan had gazed oddly, "It must have been the rain falling within the flask." Auravon awoke from his memories. His face was still resting in the soft, smooth, cool fabric of the cloak. He continued to kiss it warmly. He felt unified with Amarthon and his brother. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:55 PM Post #173 |
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Chapter CXLIII: Cloaked Conspiracy Amarthon brooded on his bed, his brothers sitting beside him, "That voice.... the one who asked me of the higher power..... is he? Oh no! He is! Abrazan, son of Yucalwe!" Auravon sighed, "How could we seek to convert one such as him?" "All things are possible," Amarthon noted. Auravon sighed deeply, "How did they survive? If Abrazan is here.... then Yucalwe....." ".....was not defeated," Amarthon concluded the thought. "He is lurking somewhere...... and this is the mission Ballithor gave us......... Ballithor is still serving him, for some reason........." Auravon nodded, "Do you still have the other phials?" Amarthon nodded, "Seven more. Within my pack." Auravon grinned, "Then we should slip it, in spare amounts, into certain flasks of wine, to aid their..... comprehension, of our cause." Amarthon smiled, "I agree. But I also believe that they should choose of their own free will." "And have we not? This substance has not altered our will. It has only demonstrated Amanuiron's power to us. It feels... good, although he claimed it feels terrible to the Eldar." Amarthon nodded, "Yes........." Auravon cuddled warmly against Amarthon, the cloak draping close around him. He clasped Amarthon gently, closely, as they breathed. He felt Aracin near at hand as well. The cloak was draped across all three. Auravon felt bound, unified within their cause, as the cloak webbed them close together, fusing them into one. Amarthon gazed down at Auravon and smiled, gently stroking his hair, massaging his head. They fell asleep in their embrace. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:55 PM Post #174 |
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Chapter CXLIV: Betrothed Souls Arhbaineth and Raedwyn had received a room, but Arhbaineth sought for that of Sainion. She found him preparing for bed, "Sainion........ we should still remain wary of Amarthon." Sainion sighed, "He seems trustworthy...." "But he told me things, Sainion...... he told me of this being he met in the East...." Sainion's eyes felt cold, his heart chilled, "No..... you do not think?" Arhbaineth nodded, "It is very possible......." Sainion girded his heart, "He and his brothers seem..... very beautiful. I felt something good near them, despite the horrors we fear........ what if they met someone else in the East?" Arhbaineth sighed, "It is possible......." She sat beside Sainion on the bed, "Too much has happened today..... it must be driving at our minds...." Sainion touched his chest, where the torch had touched it, "Yes....... it must be....." He turned to lay down on the bed, "I wish you could stay with me........" Arhbaineth deeply smiled, "After the wedding......." Sainion nodded, "Yes.........." Arhbaineth warmly took the cloak, resting and draping it gently across Sainion's body, gently tucking him in. Sainion smiled, "I would ask for one thing...." Arhbaineth smirked, "I know........." And she leaned-in deeply, kissing him warmly with her wet, lips, warming pressing against his cheek, as their hearts throbbed deeply. Then she kissed him gently on the forehead, kneeling at his bed-side. She stayed there, kissing him on the cheek, and then waited until he fell asleep, an innocent smile beaming across his face. Then she returned to her own chamber, her heart swooning, and fell asleep. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 06:56 PM Post #175 |
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Chapter CXLV: Beloved Hearts Arhbaineth slept a restless sleep. Before dawn, she returned to Sainion's room. Sainion was still asleep when she tip-toed through the unlocked door. He slept as peacefully as a babe. She smiled and sat beside him. He slowly opened his eyes, "Did you keep watch all night?" "Do not worry yourself. I tried to sleep." Sainion smiled, "You tried to?" Arhbaineth sighed, "I am restless." Sainion sighed, "Come to me." He sat-up and opened a fold of his cloak, winging it around her as she sat beside him. They embraced and kissed each other deeply, and he propped his pillows up against the wall. They leaned backwards in restful ease. And Arhbaineth thought back to when she had journeyed with Elves into Eregion: Ioristion in its long and billowing cloak of gold, streaming golden-white, bathed in sunlight, flickering as he stood upon a ruined bridge. And Rostoriel, her hair flaming, in sunlight streaming, crimson silk flowing, as she pressed her lips against his own. And how Ioristion raised his arm, golden, divine silk streaming, along his golden-blond hair, in wind billowing. Arhbaineth turned and kissed Sainion deeply yet again. And they wrapped the cloak close around themselves, closely embracing. |
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| Ivordir | Jun 30 2015, 09:23 PM Post #176 |
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Chapter CXLVI: Amanuiron As Amanuiron had watched Amarthon ride away with several of his men, he retreated into the cave. His flesh was worn and torn. He was shrouded in shadow. He retreated into his darkness. He dreamed a restless dream. He saw a great Host of Elves and Men standing on the horizon. He saw his loyal Easterlings clashing. He saw them falling. He saw Elves dying left and right. But he saw their perseverance. He saw as they came. Yucalwe stood before him, and with him, another, and more, and there stood the Fea of Findekano. And Findekano raised his mighty voice, and brother and sister tossed the Staff to Yucalwe, who with another leaped the Staff into Guldrambor's darkened, corrupted heart, as they fell. The world spun. The Sea spun on its axis. As all the dreams and visions of the world faded away into the abyss of death. He felt Findekano's Fea shove him, pushing him, far away, and he felt the strength of Tulkas, and the winds of Manwe, in the light of the Stars of Varda, the dooming voice of Mandos pronouncing his eternal fate, as he was thrust into the Door of Night, as Morgoth's iron claw grabbed him, dragging him down, forever, into the eternal, flaming, abyss of the Void. And Guldrambor scowled, "Tis a trick.... and nothing further. They shall not dare to banish me! It is I who shall triumph!" The light of cold, strange stars fell upon him through the crevices in the rock. He thought of Amarthon. He pictured that innocent face. And he wept. He shed many hot tears. But his pride still rose against him. He thought of the elder days. He thought of young Yucalwe, an elven boy, sitting alone in the Gardens of Lorien. How he had made Yucalwe laugh, amused by his tricks. Then he thought of Amarthon's amusement. Then he thought of how Yucalwe loved his cloak, and cuddling with him in it. And he saw Amarthon once again in bliss. And he recalled Yucalwe's laughter, and how his mind brilliantly thought wondrous things, that he, Amanuiron, had made visible before the eyes of his inner mind. "No," Guldrambor muttered. "Those days are dead. And I hath killed them." He saw Melkor's beauty within his mind, and wept, at how beguiled he was. He wept at how beguiled he thought he was in the beginning, by the initial discord. He wept at how eagerly he had allowed himself to fall beneath Melkor's influence. Morgoth, Black-Foe. He recalled the Balrogs with their flaming whips, how they patrolled the darkened halls and caves of Angband. He thought of the elven slaves, how they were whipped. How he had longed in his wrath for Yucalwe to be amongst them. And then his words of utmost cruelty to Findekano's Fea returned to him, as his heart felt chilled once more. He gazed through the crevices in the earth. He gazed at the light of the same strange stars. Gazing, he shed hot tears. No. I shalt not be defeated....... I shalt scourge the world of Men. And thou, Yucalwe...... traitor mine.......... thou shalt falter deep, into my webbed design...... and perish, slowly, beneath mine eyes........ |
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| Ivordir | Jul 6 2015, 08:36 PM Post #177 |
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Chapter CXLVII: Cloaks of the Eldar Light streamed into Ivordir's restful eyes. He awoke and yawned. He wondered how long he had slept. He slipped on his slippers and his velvet robe, and walked slowly, sauntering down the hallway. There were dark circles under his eyes. He knocked on Daerfalas' door. The door was opened almost immediately. Daerfalas was clad in a simple tunic, having risin from sleep some time ago. There was a tense line to his shoulders, and he seemed similarly unrested; his sleep had been plagued by his worries. "Captain," he said, standing aside, "please, come in." His features smoothed somewhat as he offered Ivordir a small smile. "You look as I feel." "Oh please, Daerfalas.... you do not need to call me that in private." He smirked, "Thank you." He walked into the room and sat down on the edge of the bed, "We have to consider these recent elements........ as much as I respect your mother, we should have had someone watching Malgelir's movements...... something just does not feel right. And then there's this Amarthon, who apparently endured the whole journey, without saying a word to us. Nor did his brothers...... does this not strike you as odd?" "A force of habit, if you will, Ivordir," he replied smoothly, his smile growing; he followed his Captain and sat beside him, clasping his hands attentively in his lap. "My mother believes that she knows all that happens within these halls. It is a flaw of many Lords and Ladies...that they do not know everything, when they think they do." With a sigh, he rolled his sore shoulders, and his eyes drifted shut in contemplation. "You are right. I find all of this deeply unsettling. Malgelir and Amarthon have been silent until now. What game do they play, to come to us now? I regret not learning those of our company better during our journey, but it cannot be helped now. We have had many troubles to reflect upon, and this only adds to the weight. Are you well?" Ivordir sighed, "Many cares bear this weight........ there's something about that Amarthon..... I felt....different near him......I think we need a review of inventory, of what the Elves gave us in the North." Ivordir signaled that he would return in one moment. He ran back to his room, grabbed his main pack, returning swiftly to Daerfalas' chamber, shutting the door behind him. "Such secrecy," Daerfalas remarked, and though his tone was light, there was a gravity to his gaze, as he looked upon Ivordir with no little concern. "Ah, you have been industrious, my friend. Come now, let us hear it...I know you have some theory as to why these Men, Amarthon in particular, feel so...unsettling." "I have no theory. But my instincts are telling me.... to have us search our bags, and to find Arhbaineth and the belongings we sent with her and Raedwyn." He opened his pack. There was the refulgent cloak Yucalwe had sewn for him, nearly identical to Abrazan's.... the one they claimed had divided into three. And there within was a cloak of gold, granted by Auruiron..... it was thought by many that there were only seven...... until one of them..... Ioristion's..... had enchanted them with a surprise. Then there were nine....nine cloaks of gold, five cloaks of black and crimson.... Daerfalas inched closer to Ivordir, peering into his pack with unmasked interest. "And what should these cloaks tell us? There is certainly some wisdom to be gained by wearing them...the light..." his voice softened in reverence. "Do you...think this is connected somehow? To Amarthon?" Ivordir shook his head, "I do not know.......... but my instincts are telling me that we should..... wear them, at least in private.......... these powers may tell us something....." Edited by Ivordir, Jul 6 2015, 08:36 PM.
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| Ivordir | Jul 6 2015, 08:38 PM Post #178 |
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Chapter CXLVIII: Brothers "They did not see us hiding in the ballroom, listening to them...... did they......" Ivordir's smile grew. "So Amarthon claims to serve a higher power. Yet Yucalwe never spoke a word of him to me....... he spoke of Baralinor, he spoke of the Silver Swan...... why would he not mention Amarthon? Arhbaineth.......... she might know something we do not yet know.... We will conclude our inventory later. Come, let us take our cloaks with us in a sack. We should seek for Arhbaineth at once." Daerfalas brushed the hair from his face, where it oft liked to settle in his eyes; his view unencumbered, he could peer at the cloak folds within Ivordir's lap with scrutiny. "Yes, Captain," he said. The use of Ivordir's formal title unapologetic. He rose to his feet. Ivordir shook his head, "'Yes Captain'?" We cannot leave yet then.......... my dear friend..... Come, we should rest first. Do you not miss the touch of the Elves, how oft they embraced us, how we rested with them? I remember...... one elf........ his long tresses of raven hair..... his cloak of gold....... his green attire........ how oft he loved to lounge and drink wine....... and how fast, and terrible, strong and great.... he was with the bow......His grey eyes....... that sparkled as if stars....... his mirthful smile....... and his cloak-clasp of a wren..... he always called it 'A most conspicuous bird.' And that other who often lounged with him....... that Prince.... Auruiron's son....... as beautiful........oh how I loathe the day we returned south.........then, no men had yet died under my command........ no one had perished due to my deeds..... no one was left imprisoned because of my incompetence......." A tear fell down Ivordir's cheek. "We have grown long together...... please, do not be so formal with me.........come, with restful, clearer minds...... brighter eyes..... we may yet see......" Quickly Daerfalas sank back onto the bed, and enfolded Ivordir in a deep embrace; his arms, ever strong, held his shield-brother close, as he too sank into memories, powerful even when unbidden, now all the more potent. He tipped his forehead against Ivordir's shoulder, "Yes," he said, in forceful agreement. "Even now I cannot believe that I have lain eyes upon such peace and beauty..." It was not with regret that he thought of Ivordir as his Captain, and yet within the privacy of his chambers he could remember another title for his friend, for they together had once walked a pathway carved of the sorrows and majesties of the Eldar, and those they kept safe. He remembered, how he had been welcomed; even the humble fishermen had been encircled. Ivordir warmly rested in Daerfalas' embrace. And then he removed his rough, upper-tunic, exposing his bare chest, swiftly covering it with one of the silken robes of the Eldar from his pack. And then he sighted Daerfalas' pack, removing the cloaks from his, and brought them over, as he enveloped Daerfalas in yet another embrace, grabbing folds of the cloak, pouring it around them, as the fabric surged around them, as he embraced Daerfalas once more, deeply, holding him close. But he felt the power of the cloak of gold. He saw a merchant-lord and his wife, and his young son. The memory lasted briefly. And then surged the memory of Ioristor, telling them the tale of the Sigil. Ivordir gently kissed Daerfalas on the cheek, "My brother........." "Brother," Daerfalas said softly. He felt warm, impervious. Safe. "Do not regret. We are on the path we were meant to take. I too, wish we could have remained there...yet it is not incompetence that has bourne you here - 'tis merely the faults of those with evil and hate within their hearts. If you could see that. You would not weep." The cloaks sung of many things. He strove to listen, for the song was faint. A light burned in the East. It was magnificent to behold, yet even as he looked upon it, it began to spread. First but faintly, and then it gained traction. It began to burn. The edge of his vision darkened, and he thought it looked as though a parchment had been lit with flame; brightening at first, and then darkening, crumpling...Daerfalas stirred, and held Ivordir close. He wondered what it could mean. The air was quiet between them. Ivordir also saw the vision. Yet as the darkness crumpled, he saw a flickering light.... flickering, as if the winds made way to cast it out... and yet it flickered still, wavering, as the shadows rose around it. The light still flickered when the vision ended. Or was it vision? It came into him as a mental picture, a frame of thought.... a concept within his mind.... "Ivordir?" Daerfalas whispered. He wondered at what they had seen. |
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| Ivordir | Jul 6 2015, 08:39 PM Post #179 |
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Chapter CXLIX: An Unexpected Visit There was a knock at the door. Ivordir asked, and the answer came. Arhbaineth and Sainion entered the room. Sainion gazed at them in wonder, "So you both are privy to these Elvish magics!" Ivordir's eyes appeared glazed, "I thought....... I thought I heard within my mind, tale of a light growing, gaining strength, then it..... it was surrounded by shadows, that rose, reducing it to a mere flicker....The light was in the East." Arhbaineth gasped, "Amarthon........ Ivordir, there is something you must know, something I've withheld, even in Eriador....." Ivordir sighed, "Amarthon is a servant of our foe, isn't he?" Arhbaineth nodded solemnly. Sainion bowed, "We think so. There is something strange about him though....... a feint feeling of goodness, a flicker, if you will......" Ivordir smiled, "I wonder if the flicker was for him..... or for Guldrambor himself....." "How strange," Daerfalas said, "to consider whether or not it is our foe that retains light, or the Man within his grasp....so then. What shall we do?" Ivordir sighed, "I think...... yes, I confess, we overheard your little conversation in the ballroom........ you must befriend Amarthon and his brothers. You must.... play whatever game he is attempting to play. He may even attempt to convert you to his cause. Go along with it..... you may do so without lying, if your intentions are simply, to determine that which is good......" Arhbaineth nodded, "Yes..... this appears to be the proper course..... We have come also on another matter....." Ivordir nodded, "What matter is this?" Sainion grabbed her hand, "We wish to be wed. And we wish to be wed before our noble families learn anything about it. A commander of Gondor, anyone appointed with such authority, whether by land or ship, has this authority....." |
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| Ivordir | Jul 6 2015, 08:39 PM Post #180 |
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Chapter CXLX: A Hidden Marriage Ivordir nodded, "But my authority is unofficial." Arhbaineth smirked, "What did you say you were, before you came to the north?" Daerfalas looked to Ivordir, still close to his side. Ivordir sighed, "A member-in-training of the Tower-Guard........who nominally was not permitted to leave the City...... who left the Guard, to become an Envoy...." Sainion smiled, "Then you have the authority." Ivordir sighed, "When do you want it done? Now?!" "You do not even have rings, do you." Arhbaineth smiled, "Actually, I have these." She revealed them. She gave one to Sainion. Ivordir nodded, "Very well. I did study the official words...." Daerfalas laughed, a sound full of mirth. "Go then, Captain! And what must the Elves do, to be wed? They merely have to say the words. And here Arhbaineth and Sainon come, with rings. It must be fated." Ivordir patiently recited the verses, Arhbaineth and Sainion affirming their vows........ then they were pronounced. And Ivordir smiled, his heart warming, as they kissed each other deeply on the lips, swooning, slowly swaying in their deep ecstatic sea of love....... Then they graciously thanked Ivordir. Ivordir smiled, "We are still in Pelargir for several more days.... new considerations have arisen. You have time for your honeymoon......" |
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12:43 AM Jul 11