Of Wraiths and Kings, and Friends and Rings (Calling All Nazgul)

[Lady Marion Magdalena]

Sunrise, Wednsday Morning

The wind was stronger up on the walls. Mahtaliel and Shah had risen early and climbed to the highest point on the walls surrounding the university. They liked watching the sunrise from the point, elevated by both the hill and the stone one could see all across the city and several leagues down the river.

The wind was strong this morning.

"Shah..." Mahtaliel frowned, eyes fixed on distant patch of sky, "Does that look like smoke to you?"

"Whe-? Wait... blowing from downriver? Yeh. I see it."

"Think it means trouble?"

"We'll find out soon enough. Thick enough to see, it can't be too far away. I'm taking a patrol out this morning, we'll go and have a look."

Mahtaliel tore her eyes away from the hazy sky and followed her friend back down the stairs. If there was trouble coming, they'd be ready.

[Serenoli]

"Good evening, Miss Lilanwaen. I heard there was a vacant post for the house-keeper's job here." Tolvadok said loudly, to cover Lily's quite apparent shock.

Get the maid out of here, Lily, before she realises you know me.

She started, and then dismissed Zimra with a curt nod. Tolvadok closed the door shut behind her retreating back. Then he turned to Lily, who had composed herself.

"What do you want here, Tol? Is this some kind of joke? Or did you think that housekeeping excuse up just to see me?" At the last words, her eyes assumed their usual flirtatious note.

He was tempted to be very harsh... really, she never stopped flirting! But he did not intend to fail like Khamul had, and he knew much of his success would depend on how well he could make the others accept his position here. So, his voice took on the characteristic sauve politeness.

"No, this is no joke, the Morgul Lord felt that I should be put here just to keep an eye on things, and the house-keeping job was the best ruse that offered itself."

"What exactly do you mean by keeping an eye on things?" Lily's voice had the deadly steely calm that precedes storms. Well, if there was going to be a storm, he might as well give up the politeness.

"Basically, it means I have to keep an eye on you three. Make sure you don't do anything else indiscreet, shall we say? Especially, you, my dear Lilanwaen." He disregarded her rapidly fuming face, and only went on faster, realixing that once she opened her mouth to start cursing him, he would get no chance at all to get a word in edgeways. "Did you really think the Morgul Lord knows nothing of you gadding about town, and drawing attention to us in every scandalous way possible?"

[Rían]

Wednesday at dawn
outside the city gates


RÃ*an and Alagos stood together just outside the city gates, watching the sky blush delicate shades of pink at the touch of the rising sun. Alagos turned and looked at his sister, admiring the matching rosy blush on her cheeks with brotherly pride.

"You look better this morning, sister," he said, leaning down and kissing her forehead. "Did you sleep well last night?"

"Yes, I did," she answered. "It's just so wonderful having you here with me again! I won't let anyone ruin my good mood today, not even that awful Professor Galadannun! The other professors and uni workers have all been pleasant and interesting and helpful, so I won't let one ill-mannered, boorish professor ruin it for me."

Alagos smiled, but his eyes showed his concern. "Just remember what I said about him, RÃ*an - please just try to avoid him altogether, if you can. Please, for me? I don't usually ask much of you..."

"Well, that's debatable! ... but I will be glad to take your advice on this subject, for I despise the man heartily!" They both turned and looked down the road to dispel the slight awkwardness that had arisen with RÃ*an's reference to Alagos's role in forcing a courtship on her that she didn't want.

RÃ*an heard a slight sigh from her brother. "I know you don't like what I did about Tyaron," he started, but RÃ*an interrupted him.

"I'm sorry, that was rude of me to bring it up in that manner. Please forgive me?" She took his hand and gave it a squeeze. "I know you did what you think was best - I can live with it for a year, and perhaps it's better to just have it out, anyway."

"Yes, I think it is," he answered quietly, then turned to look down the road again. A movement on the road caught his attention, and he shaded his keen eyes with his hand and then gave an exclamation of surprise.

"I think that's Tyaron!" he said in a surprised tone. "He's back earlier than I thought he would be - I guess he finished his business quickly!" He paused a moment, and then added thoughtfully, peering at the approaching rider, "But still, he must have ridden hard to be back this soon..."

"What was his business, anyway?" RÃ*an asked, joining her brother in looking down the road. "You two never told me!" She hoped it wasn't to get her some present or something - that would just be a waste of time, and it would be awkward for both of them for her to have to refuse it.

When Alagos didn't answer, she looked up at him curiously. She saw him tense suddenly as he looked more intently at the horse and rider, and an odd feeling started in the pit of her stomach. "What is it, Alagos? You see better than I do ..." She trailed off at the sharp intake of his breath.

"Something's wrong, RÃ*an," he said, and took off running down the road. RÃ*an followed as fast as she could, but she was no match for her fleet-footed brother.

As RÃ*an ran towards Tyaron and Hwesta, she soon saw what had caused Alagos's concern - the mare's lovely grey coat was covered with blood. "Hwesta! Hwesta - what happened?" she cried out as she ran up to her horse, not even noticing the rider leaning over the mare's neck. She put a gentle hand on the mare's flank and started examining her closely, only half-noticing that Alagos seemed to be doing something to Tyaron's leg.

"Hwesta is fine, RÃ*an," came Tyaron's faint, exhausted voice. "That's only my blood - I ... " He paused and started again. "We were attacked by some wild animals - I was able to keep them off her, but they got to me..." He stopped, out of breath and faint from loss of blood.

"You idiot!" snapped Alagos at Tyaron, examining a loosely-tied bandage with anger. "What were you thinking? What type of bandage job is this?" he muttered savagely, tightening up the blood-soaked cloth, his fear at his closest friend's dangerous condition coming out in anger. While RÃ*an had been worried about her mare, Alagos had seen the real problem, and had been examining Tyaron's wounds and tightening up the loose bandages.

Alagos turned to RÃ*an and said to her in a low, urgent voice, "Run quickly back to town, find a surgeon, tell him we have an elf with major blood loss from an animal attack, and get him to the house. I'll come with Tyaron as fast as I can."

RÃ*an couldn't move - she couldn't stop staring at Tyaron, his familiar face a sickly grey-white and distorted with pain. "I'm ... I'm sorry," she started to say, ashamed at how she had only been concerned about her horse and not the man that had given her the horse.

Alagos turned on her, his bright eyes flashing in anger. "Go!" he yelled. NOW!"

RÃ*an took off running.

Alagos finished tightening the bandages, then leapt up lightly behind Tyaron and held him securely. "What type of an idiot bandage job was that, brother?" he chided Tyaron, trying to keep him conscious as he urged the mare into a brisk walk. "A lad of 5 could have done a better job than you did! The worst archer in Gondolin could have done better than you did!" He was rewarded with a weak chuckle for that last line.

"I wanted ... to get Hwesta back ... to RÃ*an ... unharmed," came the faint reply, broken up by the labored breaths.

"You're more important than a horse, you git of a swordsman," shot back Alagos, then immediately regretted it, remembering RÃ*an's current attitude towards Tyaron and realizing that Tyaron probably knew it, too. He tried a different tack. "Besides, I just met some great guys - good warriors despite being swordsmen and not knowing much about archery - I want you to meet them. It will be fun to spar with them!"

This time, there was no response.

[Telcontar_Dunedain]

Placeholder. Khamûl and Udu talk and prepare building work in Udu's cellar.

[CrazySquirrel]

Tuesday evening, Orrodel

"Did you really think the Morgul Lord knows nothing of you gadding about town, and drawing attention to us in every scandalous way possible?" sneered Tolvadok.

Lilly bared her teeth in a wolfish snarl. Her eyes were now burning with inhuman hellish light.

Zimra, who had originally stopped some distance from the closed door, in hope to await the outcome of the interview, suddenly felt frightened. There was no apparent reason for her fear, but still she ran like a hare all the way to her room in the servant's wing, locked the door and curled in a corner of her bed, shaking.

"Curse ye all!" yelled Lilly. "The Captain, Khamul, Udu, you! All you high-and-mighty men, who have nothing better to do, than to spy on a poor girl!" Lilly added some observations fit to make an orc blush.

"Get OUT of MY house! NOW!"
And to emphasise her point Lilly flung a heavy decanter with red wine at Tol's head. The silver saucer followed. Tolvadok expertly ducked, letting both missiles fly over his head and crush on the far wall. Then Lilly came at him. Caught out of balance, Tolvadok crushed to the floor, dragging Lilly with him. She had no weapons, but her long purple nails were not a small threat. Lilly was heavier than the thin and wiry Tol, but, for all his delicate built, he was a seasoned fighter. Soon he had Lilly pinned beneath him, and pressed her hands with now bloody claws to the floor.

"Calm down, Lilaenwen, before I say a spell - and that will really hurt!" Tolvadok warned sternly, trying to look directly in Lilly's face and NOT lower. Lilly's dress, which was fixed to her shoulders rather precariously, had slipped during the fight, and now her gorgeous breasts were exposed.

Lilly, with her uncanny ability to stay tuned to men's mood, noticed his shifty gaze and understood the reason immediately. Anger drained from her eyes; now they were green, bottomless and deceptively sweet. Lilly sighed languorously, her bosom heaving. Tolvadok watched, as if entranced, as Lilly's full rosy lips moved nearer and nearer to his own...

[Earniel]

Wednesday, mid-morning
The park around Amon Amrun

Eärniel had found a perfect spot, here the park touched the Gwathló and the sounds of the city were muted by the trees and bushes. The grass was pleasant to sit on and bushes still offered some privacy.

Eärniel took of her shoes and stepped with her bare feet into the water. The sand whirled up shortly and settled again each time she moved her feet. She bent forward and ran her fingers through the cool water.

"I am here," she said habitually before turning back and sitting down on the riverbank, listening to the mumbling songs and stories of the river, her feet still dangling in the water.

Nearby a kingfisher staked out a branch hanging over the water. The bird sat motionless, patiently looking down before occasionally diving, resurfacing and settling back on the branch. Sometimes he was lucky, sometimes he had missed.

The kingfisher dived again, but as he resurfaced a white blur suddenly appeared, almost out of nowhere, swooped down, and in one motion snatched the fish out of the kingfishers's beak. It nearly dragged the smaller kingfisher along, before it finally climbed higher in the air, while screaming triumphantly (and somewhat mockingly).

The kingfisher, as soon as it regained its wits, started chattering angrily, possibly insulting every egg in the white thief's nest. Then it flew off, to find a more quiet and peaceful fishing spot elsewhere.

"You are such a bad-mannered glutton," Eärniel said, shaking her head disapprovingly, as the white blur landed a few feet to her right and became recognizable as Faénn the gull. Faénn would have grinned, if its features had allowed for such expressions, and if it hadn't been busy with swallowing the tail of the unfortunate fish.

"I was looking for you," Faénn said as soon as the fish was gone. "We're leaving Tharbad and heading back to sea until summer or so. So no need to save any more fish for me."

"So soon?" Eärniel asked surprised. "You only just arrived and you said there wasn't much to eat in the sea this time of year. What's wrong with the fish from Tharbad?

"It's not the fish that's wrong, it's the company." Faénn's eyes shifted left and right, as if to see whether there was no one eavesdropping. Only then did he continue. "Other gulls are getting rather edgy in Tharbad all the same. Too far from the sea to be good. And the predator birds are up to something, which would be enough reason for any bird to be elsewhere."

"But Faénn, gulls are predatory birds too." Eärniel pointed out, somewhat amused. "Alternating between trying to be vicious predators and cowards, but still."

"T'is different, trust me. We're Ossë's birds afterall, spent too much time on the sea. You know what it's like. We're not as neutral as the other Predator Guild species are. And now some of them are making some shady allies and picking sides, and I can tell you: it's not the one where you and me are on."

Eärniel hit the ground with the palm of her hand, getting frustrated. "Why must you be so cryptic? What shady allies? There has been no trouble since the end of the war."

"I don't enjoy being cryptic. Well, usually I do," Faénn corrected himself, "but not in this. Naturally, the other predators aren't really forthcoming with details. We were also somewhat unsettled to notice that not a single gull arriving from the south has joined us since yesterday, while we still were expecting some. It could be coincedence but we're sort of not taking chances." Faénn chuckled. "You did mention cowards, didn't you? If there is one thing you can trust a gull to do, it is to live up to its reputation."

"Are you saying that Tharbad is about to become too dangerous?"

"Who knows? For gulls at least, it seems. But I'd rather jump at merely shadows than having the entire darkness of evil smack my feathers. So you just be careful all the same. I'll be sure to give Cirdan your regards. Goodbye!"

[Lotesse]

At that moment, the front door crashed open, shattering the glass out of the windows in the front room and sending splinters of wood from the doorframe spraying everywhere. Filling up the entire entrance opening was the giant, hulking form of Buz, looking monstrous with rage. Within a split second, he was at the astonished fighters, and with one massive hand he reached down and pulled Tolvadok off Lilly by his blonde hair and flung him against the opposite wall like a flailing puppy. Taking off his deep crimson riding cloak, he wrapped it around Lilly's shoulders and bosom, and held her, while returning his brutishly furious glare at Tolvadok.

For a long moment, no one said anything at all.

It was Lilly who broke the electric silence, doing her best to turn her surprise and glee at seeing Buz break in into a theatrical performance of shivers and tears.

[Valandil]

Tuesday evening placeholder

[Serenoli]

Frozen in time, Tolvadok watched helplessly as Lily burst into tears, intensifying the already horrible expression on Buz's face. Then, suddenly his helplessness changed into a fury as great as the one gripping Buz. Righteous anger at being an innocent nazgul, who had only tried to follow orders, and any second now Lily would be accusing him of nameless horrors!

"Oh, just stop the waterworks, will you?" He savagely shouted.

Of course, that had the opposite effect, and the volume actually increased a notch or two. She was now sobbing with a simpering expression on her face, but being very careful that very few tears actually escaped her eyes, otherwise her nose would become red, and that'd be a disaster! Buz looked tenderly at her and murmured, "What did he do to you, my poppet?"

"Come on, Buz, can't you see she's not really crying, she's just faking it? Tears only work on mortals! Can't you tell that her real emotions at this moment are triumph and joy?"

Buz was preparing to lunge at him, when it suddenly occured to him that if he blotted out the noisy tears, the only anger and resentment in the room came from Tol, whereas Lily- Lily was radiating joy...

[Grey_Wolf]

6 of the Shree-Kryhnn went outside the citywalls to forage for live bait, them being partial to it, and the remaining half-dozen remained inside continuing their nightly predatory expeditions.

There appeared to be something in the works. They had heard rumours of a pirate fleet sailing up the river, and was now savouring the thought of the expected windfall to come, of wounded soldiers on whom they could feast.

[CrazySquirrel]

Orrodel, Tuesday evening

"What are you scheming now, Lilly" asked Buz, his voice slurred from emotion. "What is this game again?"

Lully's face turned an ugly mask of anger "To Ungoliant with you both! You never loved me, Buz, if you are staying aside while this little scoundrel tries to rape me! And don't you come into my bedroom anymore!" With that, she violently slammed shut the remnants of the door, and made a regal retreat upstairs to her room.

Buz looked helplessly at Tol. The other was still shaking from anger, but soon managed to appear calm again, looking back defiantly. Buzukkumarz disliked Tolvadok, (well, who didn't?), but Buz also knew that Tol was stern and grim and certainly not a woman luster. There was many a salacious joke going around about his and Khamul' chastity...

Buz shook his head and went to the wine cabinet. He produced two large goblets and two bottles of Dorwinion.

"Sit down, man', he said pouring the wine,"and explain to me what you want here in Orrodel and what in Angband you and Lil were doing there on the floor?"

[Serenoli]

Tolvadok took the proferred goblet and tipped it all in at once. He did not enjoy drinking, but after that encounter, he felt he needed the drink. Buz refilled his goblet in silent sympathy. He knew more than anyone else how much one needed a drink after dealing with Lily... as a result, he himself was almost perpetually drunk.

Tolvadok, meanwhile was feeling friendlier to Buz than he had ever done. He shuddered to think what he might have done, if Buz hadn't rescued him in time. But, now he had some explaining to do. He hoped he wouldn't get the same reaction as with Lily, but this time, no matter the outcome, he wouldn't try any polite sweet-talking... he would just state the facts as they were, and Buz could do what he wanted about it.

"Yesterday, I had a conference with the Morgul Lord, and he told me that he was putting me in charge of Orrodel in the stead of Khamul. After some delibaeration, we decided that the best way to install me here- without causing undue suspicion, would be for me to come as a member of the staff. So, I am your new housekeeper, and I'm also in charge here." This last he said with a flat tone of authority, as if daring Buz to challenge his right to be there, as Lily had done. Buz said nothing, so he went on.

"When I came here for my interview, and told Lily of this, she flared up, and attacked me, and her... bodice tore, purely accidentally, and then you came and discovered us. And thats the simple truth."

And it was the truth... almost. He did not mention that he and Lily had almost kissed, partly because he had no wish to give the jealous Penny any reason to suspect him... but mostly because he did not wish to admit the fact, even to himself.

[sun-star]

Tuesday evening

Oreturion was sitting at his desk, writing, when he heard the door behind him open and close. He did not turn round, knowing from the sound of the limping steps that it was Estelmo who had interrupted him.

"Are you busy, Oreturion?" Estelmo asked. There was no answer, but he knew better than to take silence as a rebuff, so he continued, "I've hardly seen you today, and it's time for my evening walk - will you come down to the river with me? I need to stretch my legs. And it's a fine evening."

Oreturion assented, and they left the room together. "How did you spend the day, Estelmo?"

"Oh, in this and that. The time goes so quickly here, don't you find? Though I couldn't tell you what I do with it. I sit down for a nap by the fire, and find half the day gone. But you always seem to have so much to do. How have you been occupying yourself?"

"I have plenty of correspondence to fill my time."

Estelmo laughed at the characteristically evasive answer, but said nothing further until they reached the riverbank. There were few people in sight as they turned away from the busier area of the city, the younger man matching his usually quick pace to the elder's leisurely stroll. There was an almost imperceptible relaxation in Oreturion's bearing when he was with Estelmo, since perhaps the only time he felt himself able to unbend, even a little, was in the company of his friend. A stranger would not have noticed the difference, but Estelmo knew what it meant, and he thought now was a good time to make use of it.

"You know, Oreturion," he said genially, "I'll never understand you. Why are you always so guarded? I mean, what was that answer you gave me back there? 'I have correspondence to fill my time'. How long have we known each other, and that's the only answer you can give to a simple question? Anyone would think you were afraid I was a spy."

Oreturion kept his eyes on the path ahead, avoiding his friend's questioning look. "I would never doubt you, of course, but one can never be too careful," was his only answer.

Estelmo laughed again. "If you don't mind me saying so, old man, that's nonsense. Go off-duty for a while, can't you? After all, think where we are. This is peacetime, and we're here to keep the King company while he has a good time at university. I don't know about you, but I've had more arduous tasks in my life! Take some advice from someone who's known more trouble than you have - recognise an easy ride when you see one, and enjoy it. Look around you. What could happen here?"

Estelmo stopped walking and gestured vaguely at the scene before them. It certainly did look peaceful. The stars were out, and the slow-moving river went its quiet way in the darkness. Oreturion gazed around, coming finally to meet his friend's eyes, and conceded the old man's point with a rare fleeting smile. On the way back they talked of other things.

[The last sane person]

Wednesday Dawn
By the city gates

Shah and Mahta had descended the walls; both troubled by what they had seen. And sensed. "I don't like this. It's probably a good distance away, one of the outlying towns. I hope its nothing more than an over zealous bonfire..." Shah had started pulling on his armor, calling one of his sergeants to go fetch master Marthalion and Raendil, writing excuse notes for the both of them.

"Really, Shah, you don't honestly think it's a bonfire?"

"No, but I can hope. Barliman! Barli!" Shah nearly roared, the young Barli ran up.

"Sir! What’s the ruckus?"

"Tell the men to arm themselves well and saddle the fleet horses. Also bring the roster and add the men whose shift will start now. I sense trouble and we are going a little further than normal. Also saddle my horse and put the armor on it! Hop to it man!"

"Shah, please, watch yourself..."She raised a hand to forestall an exasperated response, "I am not doubting your skill, but this is all uncanny. I don’t like it one bit." They were quiet for a good ten minutes, preparing horses, armor and grim faced patrolmen

"Neither do I love, neither do I.� Shah girt on his sword, and grinned. “Old girl, you best dust off that armor and mace. Looks like you might use them, only, I hope, not on the chancellor.�

Mahtaliel smiled and both Raendil and Marty rushed up to the armory, armored and ready. Both Ithilion and Volricom didn’t have armor. “Sorry sir, but we didn’t bring the armor for our mounts…could we borrow some?�

Shah shook his head in mock disapproval. “For shame boys, you don’t bring your vital armor for your horses during peacetime schooling? Shame! Nah, have the grooms outfit them, I’ll outline the problem and the route we will be taking.�

The four of them gathered around a map, watching intently as Shah traced the routes and the source of the potential problem. “Ah, well, that’s a considerable distance Shah. How will we get the message back?� Marty stroked his chin, “Not even Volricom can make THAT distance in a day.�

Shah grinned and went outside, giving a sharp whistle. “No, that he can’t but she can.� Shah stroked a puffed up falcon that landed on his outstretched fist.

“Well, if it isn’t old BlackWing. Yeah, I guess she could out distance us…I take it she will be carrying dispatches to our friends here…� Ray nodded to Mahta.

“You betcha, and I in turn will relate to Oreturion and Estelmo. Come, to the gate with the lot of you.� Shah, Mahtaliel, Ray and Marty walked out onto the street with the assembled scouting/war party standing by nervous steeds, awaiting orders.

“MOUNT UP!� As one, the unit mounted up, and all started donning helmets and checking shields.

“Alright men, we know the drill, and you all have the maps. Marthalion, take the second patrol group out around the west. We will meet up at the first check point and move together from there!�

[Lotesse]

Viniglaen made herself comfortable in the garden chaise-lounge, streching her legs out on the cushions and tucking her arms behind her head, eyes closed, soaking up the gentle afternoon sun. Lomi was perched next to her, impatiently scratching the tufts of feathers between her eyes with her lovely long talons.

"You asked me to glean for you news of the young Kingsmen and their love dalliances, or whatever," said Lomi, "therefore, I followed the one and overheard a conversation which you may find interesting. Or not, but you asked me to - "

"Oh, Lomi, enough with the preambles already, just tell me!" Viv said, still with the semi-smile on her face that had been lingering since her kiss with Ray.

"Earlier, the young Kingsmen were lingering outside the smithy, apparantly waiting for someone, and I sat above them in a tree and listened to them. Your lover," at this Lomi slightly rolled her big yellow eyes, "the young sir Raendil, asked his friend if it wasn't the Lady Lilaenwen that he was, and I quote, ' after.' To which, the young man responded thusly - (at which point Lomi eerily parroted the exact voice tone of Martalion) 'You must be kidding! I know what kind of woman she is. No way in hell would I go after her. She was just for a quick bit of fun, but I am not interested.' "

"You can recall all that verbatim? I'm impressed Lomi!"

"My lady, it is no big deal. Don't get too impressed; it's what I do."

Viv, delighted by her dear cranky owl friend, just smiled. "O.K., then, go on, what else did he say?"

"The young man that my lady fancies, this Raendil, he replied by asking why, and his friend the young sir Martalion explained that, quote, 'She is a social climber, and that kind of woman cares nothing for others but just about how to get to the top. I avoid women like those.' "

"Anyone with half a brain will be wise to avoid a woman like my crazy sister!" laughed Viv good-naturedly.

"My lady! May I finish?"

Viv just leaned back again and lazily shut her eyes against the soft sunrays, as Lomi continued.

"Then, the young sir Martalion carefully advised his friend, your Raendil, to - and I quote - ' watch it around Viv,' he seemed a bit concerned. He stated that it was necessary for the young sir Raendil to be extremely careful around your family."

At this, the smile finally faded from Viv's face, and she sat up.

"That was it?" she asked Lomi; "That was all they said?"

"Yes, my lady, that was all they said. They were joined by an elven woman after that, and nothing else notable was said."

"Hmm."

"My lady, I have mice to catch, you know. Is there anything else I can do for you at this time?"

"No, no, thank you very much for all that, Lomi."

Lomi made to take flight.

"Listen," said Viv, "If you're hungry I know for a fact that there's dozens of well-fed little mice living over there in our Orrodel stablehouse. Please, help yourself any time."

"I already know about those mice," said Lomi, and off she went.

Viv went in the house to get changed and ready for her supper date with Ray, and kept her ears and senses open for Lil, so she could pass on the news about Marty as she'd promised.

[The last sane person]

Having watched Marty lead the main force out the western gates, Shah and Raendil rode forward to take their route. Mahta striding alongside them. "I'll see you to the door old friends. Raendil, you'd best watch over this old turkey. He sometimes makes mistakes."

Ray laughed a bit, "Gladly, I'll keep him safe for you." He gave her a cheeky grin and kicked Volricom into action, passing out of the gate ere she could reply. The two older friends just grinned at each other and shrugged. No sooner did Raendil leave their sight did he come galloping back with a injured man infront of him.

Ray was on red alert. He had just been itching for action, and when Barli had come with his message, Ray had immediately woken up, excusing himself from Viniglaen’s presence and donning his armor and running back to the stable for Volricom. On his way to the guard house, he ran into Marty in a similar hurry. They wore an identical grin.

Ah, now for some business! I was beginning to get a little tired. Perhaps this is what I need thought Ray as he watched his armored friend lead the party down river. What he enjoyed more was watching Mahtaliel and old Shah talk. Why, the old dog, flirt….

"I'll see you to the door old friends. Raendil, you'd best watch over this old turkey. He sometimes makes mistakes." He watched Mahta give Shah one of the looks he knew so well coming from concerned females.

“Gladly, I'll keep him safe for you.� He couldn’t help himself and burst into laughter and a grin as he and Volricom bolted for the gates, followed by the other 2 scouts. But ere he could go half a furlong he saw something that stopped him dead in his tracks.

“ALAGOS! RIAN! What happened?!� Blood. Lots of it. Raendil immediately scanned the area, and saw that most of it was coming from the first rider of the white mare. He caught Rian out of the tail of his eyes, running as though Morgoth was on her very heels.

She stopped for a brief moment when she heard her name being shouted. He and Volricom ran along side Alagos and his injured friend. "We really ought to stop meeting like this. What happened?" His voice shook a bit, out of concern, he attempted to put a grin on, but he was too pale. Alagos was even paler.

"I don’t know Raendil, I think he was attacked by beasts on his way back. He needs a doctor."

"I can see that. Here, let me and Volricom carry him, I'll take him to the Doc's house. I can't think of a better person to take care of him. Follow along!"

Alagos reluctantly transferred the unconscious Tyaron to Ray and Volricom. Volricom immediately drew himself up, and took off straight into a gallop, not jarring either riders. To Ray it seemed as though the stallion was standing still and the world was moving.

He saw Mahta and Shah in front of him in no time, and didn’t bother to stop. All he and Volricom were focused on was getting to the old Doc's house in time.

```````````

"Sweet Eru! Now what happened?!" Mahta's sharp eyes had immediately spotted the bleeding Tyaron draped in front of Ray.

"Gods only know, but whatever it is, this day has sure turned out to be a bad one old girl!" Shah kicked his horse into action, barring Alagos from storming off after Volricom. "I say! You there! Halt! What has gone on here! Hold hard there my friend!" Shah urged his mount to go alongside Alagos and stop them. Alagos turned and glared at the man in front of him, blocking his way. He looked ready to smite Shah.

"Hold hard! Ere you try to flatten my face, I am the head of the forces here at Tharbad. What happened?" Shah noticed Alagos following the swiftly retreating form of Volricom. He added in a softer tone, "There isn’t a faster way to the healers than on the back of that horse and his rider. Your friend will be fine. What happened?"

By that time Mahtaliel had caught up with the pair who had now stopped. Trailing in third came Rian, white with concern.

[Rían]

Early Wednesday morning,
on the streets of Tharbad and at the doctor's

Alagos quickly sized up Shah and liked what he saw in that brief instant, but he wasn't about to be separated from his friend, especially in the precarious shape he was in. Hwesta pranced impatiently as Alagos rapidly answered Shah's inquiry.

"I don't know all that happened, sir, because my friend passed out from blood loss shortly after I found him riding into Tharbad," he answered quickly. "All I could get from him is that some wild animals attacked him on the road. Now please, can you direct us to the doctor that Raendil was taking him to? I'll talk all you want once we get there, but my sister and I need to be with our friend." As he spoke, he reached down and helped his sister up behind him on Hwesta.

Shah was surprised at the mention of Ray's name. "You know Raendil?" he asked.

"Yes, yes, yes, I met him in Imladris years ago," replied Alagos hurriedly. "Now please take us to him, or at least point us in the right direction! We must get to him!"

"Come on, old girl, let's get these good people to their friend," said Shah as he leaned over to help Mahta up behind him, but she anticipated him and leapt lightly up on her own. The two horses and four riders took off down the road, following where Volricom had swiftly borne Ray and Tyaron a few minutes before.

----------

"Good thing he's an elf," mused the doctor as he expertly examined Tyaron's wounds, cleaned them, and applied bandages. "If they aren't killed right out, they usually pull through right enough. My favorite type of patient! He's in great shape - he should be fine now that I've stopped the bleeding."

"Well, you've killed your share, so this guy will "up" your percentage and make you look better!" said Ray, feeling safe enough to make that jest on the strength of the doctor's looks and words, in addition to his own experience with injury and death.

Just then, Alagos and RÃ*an burst in the room, followed closely by Shah and Mahta. The doctor looked up at Shah with an "he'll be OK" look, and Shah breathed a sigh of relief as he interpreted the look for Alagos and his sister. "Looks like your friend will be ok," he told them, and then turning to Ray, "Good job getting him here so quickly, Ray!"

"He'll have Volricom to thank for that when he wakes up," said Ray, deflecting the praise off to his horse.

The doctor finished cleaning and bandaging up Tyaron, then turned to look at Alagos and RÃ*an. "You his friends?" he asked as he washed the blood off his hands. They nodded. "Well, you elves are hard to kill - he should be fine in a day or two, as soon as his blood volume gets back up. But it was close - he bled quite a bit."

As the doctor pulled a sheet over Tyaron's now neatly bandaged legs, Ray added wryly to Alagos, with a sly, pointed glance at RÃ*an, "And when he wakes up, be sure to tell him to take better care of the family jewels - one of those bites was awfully close!" RÃ*an smiled and blushed as Mahta and the others roared with laughter at that old favorite among jokes.

[Lady Marion Magdalena]

Laughter subsiding, Shah brought the talk back to buisiness.

"Raendil, we'd better get a move on before our patrol leaves without us." He paused, considering Alagos, "I ask you to join us, but I get the feeling you'd like to stay and keep an eye on your friend."

"Actually-"

Shah cut him off, "Just in case. We'll need someone here too."

"Ah."

"Good work, Doc." Shah turned to Alagos and Rian, "I hope your friend recovers soon. Iluvatar willing we'll see eachother again in a couple of days."

"It's good to have met you. Safe journey."

Shah and Mahta left Ray to say goodbye and started back to the gate. Walking this time with Shah leading his horse.

"Animals don't usually attack riders," Mahta finally broke the silence, "Especially not in this season when there's plenty of game about."

"I don't like it either, but that's just one more reason for me to go out."

"Just... be careful."

Shah snorted, "I'll be as careful as I can be. The moment we come across any concrete signs of trouble approaching I'll send you a bird. And if it comes to that... well, you've got the keys to the armory. You know what to do."

"Aye."

They continued in silence until they were almost through the gate. Shah stopped suddenly, pulling them over to the side of the archway and guiding his horse to stand between them and the road. "How far behind us is Master Raendil?" He asked, a note of mischief in his voice.

Mahta peered around him and over the back of the horse, "He's still a good street length behind, why?"

"Thought a degree of privacy might be nice." He replied.

Wrapping his free arm around her he pulled her in close for a kiss. She leaned in closer, returning it and they stayed that way till hoofbeats alerted them to the presence of company. Breaking away slowly Shah mounted his horse.

"Take care, Shah."

"You too, old girl. Don't let them drive you too crazy."

[Grey_Wolf]

The Kree spirits listened in on what that Mahta person had to say and thought:

"Calling Us animals! We are much more sophisticated than mere animals! We'll teach her to go around thinking of herself as knowledgable." the seething nothingnessess whispered between themselves.

[Rían]

Wednesday mid-morning
Itazel and Danor's house

Tyaron lay in bed with his eyes closed. On the edge of consciousness, he could hear voices - voices that he loved but couldn't put a name to yet. He lay there, not knowing or even caring where he was, content to hear the well-loved voices speaking soft and low. The voices made him feel warm and safe, despite the growing awareness of pain in his legs.

As he gradually became more aware, he realized that the voices were those of the two people he loved the most in this world, ever since his family had been lost in the Fall of Gondolin so many years ago. He opened his eyes slightly and looked at them - the dark-haired brother and sister talking quietly with each other by the window. He was in his room at Itazel and Danor's house, but had no recollection how he got there. Exhausted, he closed his eyes again, content to just listen.

The proverb is that a listener never hears good about himself, but that was far from true this time, for what he heard made the tears start to his eyes in gratitude. Alagos and RÃ*an were talking about their times in Gondolin and how much Tyaron's friendship had meant to them and their family. Scene after scene was recalled, ushered in with a "Do you remember ...." and then a tale of how Tyaron had aided them, or encouraged them, or made them laugh, or comforted them when they cried.

Alagos mentioned a time when Tyaron's passion had inspired him to keep pressing on when he had wanted to quit, and RÃ*an said in surprise, "Passion? I don't think of him as passionate - he's so controlled!"

Alagos looked at his sister and answered quietly, "RÃ*an, he's one of the most passionate people I know. The only reason that he's controlled is because he has to be - when he loses control, blood is sure to follow. Don't you remember the time - no, I think you were visiting with a friend - well, let's just say there's been a few times when the matter had to come before King Turgon himself to resolve, because it was so serious and he could have been exiled for his actions. That last time, Idril herself pled for him, against Maeglin - and she was right, as was shown later when more information finally came out. I've never seen a man more passionate for justice and against any form of cruelty to others. He puts me to shame sometimes, for I tend to take things more lightly than I should and walk away from situations that I sometimes shouldn't."

Alagos looked at RÃ*an's thoughtful face and continued. "I guess you haven't really seen this side of him, although I never thought of it before ... I've seen it a lot, especially in battle. But still, I'm rather surprised you haven't perceived it, especially after Sunday night ..."

"You mean when he kissed me? He kissed me - well, not like I imagined a man in love would kiss! I felt like he was - I don't know, I guess almost kissing me from a distance. I felt like he was watching me, not ... oh, I don't know quite how to express it." She sighed in frustration. "The problem is that our parents had such a wonderful marriage that I suppose it has spoiled us! Maybe that's why neither one of us has married." Her voice softened as she continued, "I can still see them ... there was one time, Alagos, when they didn't know I was in the house ... I came in to get a book and ended up just quietly watching our mother as she moved around the house - she was so lovely, I loved to just watch her ... and then father came in and took her in his arms and kissed her - I've never forgotten it, the passion I saw in his face for her, and the things he said to her..." She looked down at her hands in her lap. "I just can't imagine marrying someone who wasn't passionate about me the way our father was for our mother."

Alagos put his hand over his sister's hands and gave them a squeeze. "I know what you're saying, but don't judge Tyaron on what he says and does compared to what you saw our father say and do - that's not fair. A man will say and do things with his wife that a man who is only courting a woman would never feel free to do until after the marriage. If the only thing holding you back from marrying Tyaron is your belief that he's not passionate, then believe me, you are entirely wrong on that point! If you do marry him, I have a feeling that you'll get far more passion than you bargained for!

RÃ*an was silent for a moment, then looked up at her brother thoughtfully. "Perhaps I'm wrong - I need to think on it - just remembering those times in Gondolin, I can see what you're saying ... I just never thought of it that way."

"And besides," continued Alagos, "you certainly never encouraged him - in fact, quite the contrary! - and his sense of honor would prevent him from being as passionate with you as you seem to want."

RÃ*an looked up at him defiantly. "His sense of honor certainly didn't stop him from forcing his courtship on me when he knew I didn't want it!" she said angrily.

Alagos was silent for a moment, staring into his sister's eyes intently. Finally, he asked her quietly, "RÃ*an, are you entirely blameless in your dealings with him?"

They locked eyes; it was RÃ*an who finally backed down. "No," she said solemnly, looking at her hands in her lap again. "No, I'm not blameless. Your perception does not mislead you. I have indeed wronged him."

"I thought so," said her brother quietly.

RÃ*an looked up at her brother again, this time with all the defiance gone from her eyes. "I do need to do some thinking, don't I?" she said in a voice that was slightly unsteady. Alagos put his arms around her, holding her head on his shoulder, and whispered, "Yes, you do."

Tyaron continued to lay quietly, not wanting them to know that he was overhearing their conversation. If only they would leave for a moment, or change the subject, so he could "officially" wake up without them knowing he overheard their conversation! It was bitterly ironic to him to hear that RÃ*an's misinterpretation of his self-control as a lack of passion was what kept her away from him, and now that she was starting to truly see him as he was, and possibly even desire to marry him, his own actions the other night that were brought on by that same passion would make that impossible. Or would it? Would she even have to know? It was only one slip - but his sense of justice nagged at him and told him that she would have to know before making her decision. He shoved that thought firmly down into the darker recesses of his mind, telling himself that it was ridiculous to have to share every part of himself with her before proposing - and besides, what was the thing that she was keeping back from him? Why should he be totally forthcoming if she wasn't?

After a few moments of silence, RÃ*an decided that a change in subject was in order. She pulled away from her brother and started playing with one of her braids. "Alagos," she said lightly, examining the plaited hair critically, "what do the archers say about the swordsmen, anyway?"

Alagos grinned at her. "I'll only tell you if you marry Tyaron, for only then will you be able to tell me if it's true or not!"

RÃ*an managed a suitably-sickroom-subdued but still shocked, "Alagos!!" before dissolving into giggles that she tried to stifle behind her hands in order not to disturb the injured man resting on the bed, and Tyaron, in one of his greatest feats of self-control in his entire life, stifled his own laugh and remained quiet and still, giving no sign that he had heard anything.

[Grey_Wolf]

The Kree flowed through the City along it's narrow streets. They looked into lit windows and in one of them they saw that person from which they had been forced to flee in the wilderness. Seething wrath rose in their hearts at the sight of the Lone Rider. They decided to attack when he was alone later that night.

Inside the room Tyaron and the others felt the air turn icy cold as if some terrible presence was nearby.

[Serenoli]

Tuesday evening,
Professor's Apartments,
Tharbad University

Dreams, thoughts and memories swirled around Jas' head until he felt he was drowning. With an enormous effort, he pulled himself out of it, and suddenly, he was awake, wide, stark awake, and intensely aware of his surroundings.

He realized with a sinking feeling that he was still in a strange place, he was not back home yet. He wondered exactly how long he'd be stuck in this nightmarish dreamworld? It was a nasty thought, but he had no time to ponder. An ear-splitting headache and a strangely empty feeling in his stomach were taking up all his attention.

Dusk had fallen, and the room was in semi-darkness. Automatically, he reached for the candle beside the bed, and lit it, before he realized he didn't know where anything in this strange place was kept. And, then he realized that though it was a strange place, which he had no recollection of having ever visited before, it was also very familiar. He knew without looking where every candle in the room was, and he lighted them, and in the wavering light of the candle, the small carpeted room was exactly as he remembered it. Except he didn't remember it.

At first puzzled, he then decided there was no point being puzzled at a dream. After all, all sorts of strange and illogical things take place in dreams. And when he recollected there was a larder downstairs where he could find enough food for a king's feast, he gave up thinking at all, and went down to get himself supper. He thought he knew where all the wine was kept too. If he had to be stuck in a dream, at least he could enjoy himself while he was at it.

[Rían]

Wednesday mid-morning
Itazel and Danor's house

From pretending to be asleep to actually being asleep was a not-too-surprising transition for Tyaron to make, considering the events of the last two days and the blood loss he had suffered from his injuries in the attack. Alagos glanced over at his friend, then whispered to his sister, "He's still sleeping - I think I'll go check on Hwesta, and when I get back we'll try to get some fluids into him." RÃ*an nodded her approval, and her brother quietly left the sickroom.

RÃ*an sat quietly by the window for a few more minutes, then moved to the chair next to Tyaron. She studied his face as he lay there asleep, trying to see what, if anything, had changed in all those years. Most of the changes she had noticed these last 2 days since their reunion had been in his eyes - they were deeper, more reflective, with both an intense light and a quiet sorrow. But there were changes in his face, too, although slight, as is the way of the Elves.

She noticed a tiny scar under his lower lip and wondered how and when it got there. As she examined the scar in the quiet room, she smiled as she remembered that in the composite man discussions, while Alagos' broad shoulders were often a fierce contender, Tyaron's mouth typically blew the competition away. He had a full lower lip that pushed up slightly in the middle, giving him a perpetually thoughtful look that was very attractive. The younger maidens, giggling, asked those whom he had kissed if his mouth was as nice as it looked, and those maidens (very few, for Tyaron was determined to gain admission to the upper eschelon of swordsmen in Gondolin and worked many hours towards that goal) would just smile with a twinkle in their eyes, doubling the determination of the younger girls to attract his attention and making them doubly resentful towards RÃ*an when it became clear that she was the object of that attention.

Before she had even come of age, Tyaron had decided that she was the one for him (elves often choose their mates early in life). He enjoyed watching her grow and change from his close vantage point as a privileged family friend, and looked forward to the day when her eyes would have more than a friendly love in them when she looked his way. He had no doubt that those eyes would change one of these days, for he was a man used to achieving his goals, and she was already very attached to him and often turned to him to share her joys and sorrows, and for help in difficulties. He was in no hurry; was not Gondolin the safest place in Middle Earth? There was all the time in the world, and until that time, he would enjoy perfecting his skills with the sword, making him even more worthy of her love and admiration. He had actually made even Glorfindel work longer than usual at his victory at the latest trials, and he was still quite young, only 20 years past his own coming of age.

RÃ*an kept looking at his mouth, tracing its contours with her eyes. She remembered his laugh and how she loved it so much - his eyes would twinkle and his mouth would scrunch up, then just explode in a joyous smile that lit up his whole face. She remembered when she had first wondered what it might be like to kiss him ... and shortly after that, when she had overheard some of the maidens whispering that he was besotted with the Pereldar maiden and no one else had a chance with him anymore. That had given her an odd feeling, and she was very thoughtful as she walked home. Coming up to her house, she saw her brother and Tyaron on the steps, stretched out in the sunlight and laughing over the antics of one of their friends at the latest archery trials. As she approached, Tyaron quickly stood up to greet her with his usual smile, nudging her more indolent brother with his foot with a laugh. RÃ*an returned the greeting and held his eye longer than she would have normally, and was strangely excited to see the change in his face - a watchful, hopeful expression came into his eyes, and he seemed to be holding his breath.

She liked the sensation. She, the Pereldar maiden, could control one of the strongest men in Gondolin, and the other maidens couldn't.

Remembering all this, she hung her head in shame as she remembered what it had led her to do.

Tyaron stirred in his sleep and moaned, reaching his hand towards his bandaged leg. She took his hand and held it, keeping it away from the bandages, speaking soft, soothing words. Suddenly, the room seemed very cold - had the sun gone behind a cloud, or was it just her memories? She shivered, and then saw Tyaron react to the cold, too - his body tensed and drew in on itself, and he grew even more restless. She put his hand gently down on his chest and got up to get some more blankets, putting several on him and wrapping one around herself.

[Grey_Wolf]

The Kree saw the light go out in the room. They prepared themselves to enter the house, to rip and tear apart the man who caused their humiliating retreat.

But since they couldn't just flow thru walls they had to enter thru the Main Entrance and there is where they met with an obstruction in the shape of an ordinary horseshoe hanging over the doorframe. (hung there for luck, as everyone knows). They tried again and again, but with no luck.

They then decided to withdraw and try another tack. Perhaps the man will be out walking some evening and then we'll have our chance.

[Grey_Wolf]

Meanwhile six in situ Shree-Kryhnn had begun longer expeditions in the City. Rumours were spreading in the populace of bloody murder occuring in the narrow streets off the Palace and University.

[Rían]

....

[Grey_Wolf]

The six Shree-Kryhnn staying outside the walls were beginning to feel faint from lack of sustenance (ie blood), so they decided to go back into the city to join their comrades.

[Gordis]

University, Tuesday evening.

After sending the clouds flying North-West, the Chancellor descended the endless winding stairs from the Observatory. He passed through the now empty Scriptorium, and down into the Hall. Sapthân was nowhere to be seen, but the Chancellor had little doubt that the Black Numenorean was in his secret study in the dungeons, trying to master some unsavoury spells. Khamul was in his apartment, but the Morgul Lord had no business with him at the moment. So he left the Tower, locking the door carefully behind him, and went out into the cold windy night.

Sure-footed in the darkness, he made his way towards the Palace, meeting only a couple of ghosts on his way. Both the Headless Soldier and the Drowned Maiden scurried away like mice, frightened by the perilous light of the Nazgul Lord's crown.

The Chancellor turned right towards the Professor's apartments and went along the corridor, scanning for signs of life behind the doors. Both Udu and Tolvadok were away, doubtless they had already moved out going to their new dwellings in the town. Old Bumble was at home, fussing around noisily. The next apartment, Jas Fernik's, seemed empty. The Chancellor raised his brows: that was unexpected. Without knocking, he opened the door and soundlessly glided inside.

The small carpeted room was utterly dark. Looking around, the Chancellor noticed an open trapdoor to the larder. Now he heard a faint noise coming from downstairs and caught a whiff of Jas's smell. With a cold cruel grin, the Chancellor made himself comfortable in a large shabby armchair and settled to wait.

In a quarter of an hour, the gleam of a single candle appeared on the larder stair, soon followed by the candle itself, held precariously in a shaking hand. Soon the hapless Wine-Professor was in the room, a large basket with food under his arm. Unaware of his distinguished guest, Jas put the candle and the provisions on the table, produced a plate, a knife and a wine glass, and started to eat. He had hardly finished chewing the first piece of ham, when he was interrupted by a cold voice coming from the deep shadows beyond the ring of light.

"Good evening, Professor. I am glad to see that your health is restored. I had to chancel today's Wine-tasting class. It was quite awkward, considering that it had to be the first lesson of the semester, and that the King is among your students. Are you aware of it? "

[Grey_Wolf]

..., three of the longranging Shree-Kryhnn wandered the grounds of the palace and the University. Foolish students out on a walk fell prey to this lethal trio.

[Serenoli]

Life is a search for happiness. Jas, with the basket of food and a wine bottle under his arms had much to complain about regarding life... such as being stuck in a dream. But he had nevertheless achieved something resembling happiness, or at least peace, as he contemplated complacently the excellent meal he would have shortly.

Humming softly to himself, he laid his supper, and then jumped visibly as he heard a cold drawl behind him:

"Good evening, Professor. I am glad to see that your health is restored. I had to cancel today's Wine-tasting class. It was quite awkward, considering that it had to be the first lesson of the semester, and that the King is among your students. Are you aware of it?"

Shaking, he turned around. Seated in an armchair rather stiffly, but still looking like he owned the room, was a tall man, who if standing would have towered over Jas. His silver eyes were glinting ominously, and though he talked nonchalantly, there was an air of interrogation about him. But Jas noticed no such subtle details, he only felt the face was somewhat familiar, and suddenly remembered: that voice, that hair, those eyes... it was the nasty man from the earlier dream! - and Jas felt his heart sink.

"Oh, no, not you again! Are you being paid to haunt me or what? And why do you keep talking through the back of your head? If you are a permanent fixture of this ghastly place, at least try and make some sense! What King? What class? What semester??"

Once again, Jas accomplished what a thousand years of living in Mordor had never done- he made the Chancellor's mouth drop... figuratively speaking. No one had ever dared to speak to his face like that since... well, eternity! Even his hated and despised enemies in the heat of battle were more frightened of him than otherwise. Surely, the man couldn't be suffering from after-shocks still! It should have worn off by now. For a moment, the two stared at each other, and it was Jas who broke the silence.

"Well, if you're going to sit here looking like a stuffed frog saying nothing, I have no problem; as long as I can have my supper in peace. In fact, the great philosopher Gyth says dreams are really our own imagination... not that everyone agrees with what he says, but who knows? So I'm just going to eat, and imagine you're not there. Empty armchair, no ghastly ghostly man. Right."

He attacked his plate with vigour. Behind him, he heard a stirring. The Morgul Lord was gaining the use of his vocal cords again.

"Prof-"

"You-don't-exist you-don't-exist, nasty-figment-of-imagination, you-don't-exist, you..." chanted Jas.

"But-"

"don't-exist..."

"How dare-"

"you-don't-exist, you-don't!!"

Silence.

"Professor Fernik!"

"YOU DON"T EXIST!"

They were both standing now, glaring at each other. Everytime, the Morgul Lord opened his mouth, Jas interrupted. It was a deadlock... and the Morgul Lord was fast losing his patience and discretion... Jas was getting quite intolerable!

[Rían]

Wednesday, mid-morning
Itazel and Danor's house

RÃ*an was standing by the window, gazing thoughtfully at the life going on outside of the room, when Tyaron woke for the second time. He watched her silently for a few minutes while he grew more and more awake. The memories came slowly but relentlessly crowding back, sharp and clear, up until after the animal attack and the painful ride back to Tharbad. He faintly remembered the coming of the dawn and seeing the city, but after that, it was a confused blur. He remembered enough, however, of what had taken place on Monday night, and of the conversation of RÃ*an and Alagos just a short while ago, to make him wonder what he was going to do... but tired and weak, he decided to give it up for now and worry about it later.

He stirred slightly at the pain in his leg, and RÃ*an turned quickly around with an anxious look on her face. Seeing him awake, she approached his bed with a smile and a gentle, "How are you feeling, Tyaron? We were worried about you!" She sat down next to him and took his hand.

A voice inside of him said, "Take your hand away! You don't deserve to touch her anymore!", but another voice said, "Later! Get better first, and then you'll be able to tell her more clearly - IF it's the right thing to do. You should think about it... don't be too hasty..."

"What happened?" he finally asked. "I remember getting close to Tharbad, and then ... I just ... what happened? How did I get here?"

RÃ*an explained the events of the morning, and he nodded his head as her recital tied the vague images in his mind together into a coherent picture. "You're looking better already - you have more color than even an hour ago," she added, touching his cheek where a little color was showing now. The odd look in his eyes made her draw back awkwardly, and there was an uneasy pause as each remembered things that they had rather not remember. Both of them wished ferverently for Alagos's neutral, cheerful presence.

"I, um, had better get you something to drink," said RÃ*an a bit awkwardly, standing up abruptly. "The doctor said to give you as much fluids as you could take. Are you OK by yourself for a few minutes?"

"I'll be fine," he answered evenly, and RÃ*an quietly left the room and headed downstairs.

[Lady Marion Magdalena]

Wednsday, around Sevenish

Mahta began back to the university, the savor of their parting kiss still lingering. Smiling to herself she shushed the furiously babbling voice in the back of her mind. It was warning her. Reminding her that loving a mortal was risky, foolish even, especially at their ages.

So what.

Iluvatar knew immortality hadn’t done her any favors. One lost love after another, and the losses not limited to romantic love either. She'd lose him eventually too. Why not have some happiness, some comfort in the meantime?

Well… grief and madness to follow was why not. But grief and madness followed just about everything in her experience. It wasn’t as if she was going to get any madder or more grieved than she had before.

For once she felt relief in remembering the past. So what if she was in love with a mortal? The worst that could happen was the worst that had happened before. Nothing to lose if you thought about it that way.

Up ahead she heard the bells ringing to wake the University for another day. Silently wishing Shah’s patrol good luck she pushed the thoughts of love and its consequences to the back of her mind and shifted her thoughts to her classes.

[Grey_Wolf]

Wednesday, 8.15 AM.

A group of men, dressed in black coats and armed with silver crossbows, led by a tall dark-haired fellow approached the Western Gates.

On pounding on the wooden doors, the guards open the hatch and asked for their business.

"I'm Aragorn and we are the Kravens. We heard about your vampire-problem and have come to offer our services to the King." the tall man replied to the guard's question.

Meanwhile, the Kree Spirits flowed about in the City, impatiently waiting for their intended victim to reappear. A few more unexplained murders occured, and the Tharbad Gendarmerie was still no closer to an explanation and the solving of them.

[Gordis]

Tuesday, late evening, Jas's apartment

"YOU DON"T EXIST!" cried Jas again at the top of his voice.

One should know that yelling at a nazgul is not the best course of action. To begin with, nobody likes to be yelled at, but, moreover, nazgul have extremely sensitive ears, and yelling at a close range hurts them. Of course, poor Jas was unaware of this simple truth; he had never learned proper ways of dealing with nazgul and had no idea he was facing one of the Nine.

The Chancellor was far from being a phlegmatic, though he managed to appear cold and calm almost in any situation. Almost. The present one was clearly not the case. The last bits of his patience evaporated. The Morgul Lord's hands clenched into fists, and his eyes burned with a fell light. Even the biggest stupidest Cave Troll would have fled at top speed from the light of those eyes, but Jas was oblivious to the danger. Eyes tightly shut, he chanted like a demented cockerel.

"You-don't-exist you-don't-exist, nasty-figment-of-imagination, you-don't-exist, you..."

"Stuffed frog you called me," hissed the nazgul, "look now at yourself!" The rest of the Chancellor's words Jas didn't understand.

A stub of pain went through Jas's brain, and he felt...sort of QUEER. Cold and damp. The hapless professor looked down at his body, that seemed now naked, and was startled by the green hue of his skin. Incredulous, he brought his webbed long-fingered hand to his eyes for closer inspection. Then he looked down at his lower body. It was still its original size, but otherwise remarkably frog-like.

The dream has become a nightmare. Jas opened his mouth to protest.

“Croak!�

"That will teach you a lesson, Professor Fernik," the Chancellor said smugly.

The huge frog uttered a mournful "Blorp."

"I wish you good evening, you croaking, blurping mess of pond slime", said the Morgul Lord pleasantly and left the room.

Jas The Frog watched the closed door for several minutes, croaking angrily.

The spell which the Morgul Lord laid on Jas didn't actually turn him into a frog. To all eyes he appeared exactly as he had always been. But in Jas's own bewitched imagination he was now a slimy frog, croaking and blurping, a very cold and frightened unhappy amphibian.

[Grey_Wolf]

Aragorn and his men was escorted to the Palace where they instead was met by a major domo.

"The King is indisposed. He's not meeting anybody for moment. Wait here and I'll send down an assistant."

Soon an assistant to the Governor arrived.
"How do you do." he said shaking hands with the rangers."Please follow me. I'll be escorting you to the Governor's Palace."

By the able assistance from the assistant they were soon at the Governor's Palace at Menotar Street.

[The last sane person]

Wednesday night
Half way to Lond Daer

The wary feelings of the men of second patrol grew along with the shadows. Shah and Raendil, though not showing it, were growing more aprehensive as well. Night had fallen, and the men were still riding. Raendil rode up to Shah, not entirely to just get orders as to hear another human voice. They had ridden mostly in silence since they had met up with Marthalion's patrol once it had done the circut of the city.

"Captain, about how far away from our target are we?" Ray looked at his captian, and Volricom snorted, but kept quiet. Everything was quiet. Not man or beast made a sound, and the silence was deafening as Shah calculated the distance in his head.

"Little over half way. We made good progress. Send two men ahead a ways to find defensable shelter, and we will let our horses rest and drink.

"Very good sir." Ray rode back to the column of 12 men and gave out orders. Soon, the men with the two freshest horses rode forward and were soon lost in the blackness of night. The rest were ordered to dismount and stretch. Shah and Raendil too dismounted, loosening their tack and removing their helms, they led their horses for a drink.

Looking up, Shah found that Raendil had made a second torch and stuck the but of it in the embankment to give illumination for his men, and also to read his map. He had chosen to stand under the bank, so none but his own men saw the light.

He knows what he is doing, and no mistake...though war is over, battles must still be fought. And it is the younger ones that must take up the spear... Shah sighed, and frowned as he shook his head. Or be speared.

"Find anything of use on that map? You stare enough to burn a hole in it." Shah peered over Ray's shoulder wearing his trademark half grin. He had guessed what was on Raendil's mind, "Boy, you have a certain woman on your mind?"

Ray blushed slightly, "Yes, though before you go pointing fingers, I know for a fact that you do as well! That wasn't a friendly little peck on the cheek you gave Mahtaliel."

Shah laughed softly, raising his hands admiting defeat. "True enough, true enough. What would we ever do without them? But all the same, we both have to take more care to be focused." Ray nodded, and mounted up when the scouts returned, his mind, despite his best efforts, wandered off when it the patrol came to the shelter where they were to bed down. He nodded off to sleep shortly after laying down his blanket.

His dreams were most pleasent.

[Grey_Wolf]

After Aragorn and his men had had their meeting with the Governor they were housed in a inn nearby. There they planned their crusade against the vampires.

Later that evening they went out for their first forray against the horrid creatures, bagging two.

On returning to the inn Aragorn said."Well that was easy, 2 down, 10 to go."

[Grey_Wolf]

Next evening they were out again, succeeding in downing a further 6. And the remaining four was dispatched the following night.

The Tharbad populace could finally walk the city streets without fear again.

The next morning Aragorn and his men left the city as anonymously as they had come.

[Lotesse]

There was an uneasy feel to the atmosphere all afternoon, and as the day edged toward evening the vibe seemed to gradually intensify. Viv had been much too distracted to think about school, and had spent the better part of the day in invisible mood, trying to amuse herself by flitting around the town of Tharbad looking for something, anything interesting to do, or to find, or to see. Finally she got tired of her attempted shenanigans, and eased back into full visual form, and took her horse Laslech out of the Orrodel stablehouse for a long walk, past the city borders and into the gentle countryside.

They found a secluded spot in a hidden glade of wildflowers, and while Laslech sniffed around and daintily grazed on the beauty surrounding them both, Viv laid her riding cloak out and made herself cosy upon it. The silence and peace was a refreshing release from the weird tension in the air back in town. She lay on her back, watching the unusual, smoke-like cloud formations drift by, and replayed the events of the previous evening in her mind.


She Thinks Back to Tuesday, around six in the evening...

After putting Laslech up in Ray's stable with Volcirom, Viv came 'round to the door. Ray hadn't heard her arriving. The door was slightly ajar, and sounds of things cooking mingled with their respective delectible scents wafted outside. She could hear him humming some song, which she vaguely recognised as if from some place in her own past from too many long years ago, but it sounded cheerful, and thoughtful, coming from Raendil.

Viniglaen, with all her skills at silent approach, crept into his house, and approached him from behind. For a moment she stood there, a little smile playing upon her face, just watching him cook, watching his powerful shoulders move and shrug as he tended his sauce in the pan. Then, after another few seconds, his humming and sauteeing stopped, and he sensed her there. He slowly put his cooking spatula down, turned around, and faced her, a beautiful smile lighting up his face.

"Figured that was you," he said.

Without a word, she went up to him and hugged him, standing on tiptoe and grabbing him around the neck, and pushing her face into the sweet smelling side of his neck.

"It's only been a few hours," he laughed, as he pulled her arms off. "Here, taste this -"

Raendil filled a small ladle with a tasting bit of the Southern Gondorian style puttanesca sauce he had bubbling in one of the pots upon his stove. He carefully raised it to Viv's little lips, and she half-closed her sapphire eyes and sipped.

"So good!" she said.

"Of course so good," he replied, "and you ain't seen nothing yet, my lovely!"

"What's that incredible smell coming from the oven, Ray?"

"Wouldn't you like to know!"

"That's why I'm asking," she bantered back, as Ray made a theatrical motion to open the oven and extract a roast beef, perfectly formed and dark and aromatic, surrounded by baby root vegetables and pearl onions. He set the great roast upon the kitchen sidetable, and reached back in to retrieve a baking tray of tiny, perfectly puffed and golden pudding pastries to accompany the meat.

"Oh, Ray!" is all she could think of to say. He beamed with pride, and set about opening a bottle of old-vine Gondorian reserve red.

The sumptuous dinner went on for a long, luxurious hour, maybe longer. They spoke of so many things together, leaning comfortably into each other over their plates of food, elbows upon the thick oaken table, faces illuminated by the beeswax candles at the center. The conversation was so intense and happy, so alive, that the food and the wine played second fiddle, and as the evening deepened, so did the latent, simmering pull of physical want that invisibly linked the two of them. They never spoke of the tug of lust that seemed to drag them both inward from the navel toward each other, like a polar force, but the more they never spoke of it, the more overwhelming it became, until even conversing became difficult to concentrate upon.

[The last sane person]

tuesday evening
Raendil's house

Ray's mind wasn't in his final class, commerce, and all the pretty girls' attempt to flirt were brushed off like autumn leaves. His mind was more on what to wear and what to cook for Viniglaen when she came over. Oh crap, I have to clean the house! It might be good enough for Marty or Val to visit, but not her! After class, Ray bid his farewells to Valandil and Marty, both of them grinning at his good luck.

"Val! I'll see you at the bon fire party, if you dont see me before then!" Ray called to Val over his shoulder as he ran down the street to his house. Volricom nickered as Ray came careening into the stables and up into his house, a whirlwind of cleaning and reorganizing. It didn't take him long to clean up, as he was clean enough for a bachelor.

He quickly jumped into a bath and got his clean clothes, and brought out the packages that were delivered to the house. "Ah, Karin, I owe you big time!" He had gone to the butcher shop right before heading on to Commerce, ordering roast beef and all the ingredients he would need and having them delivered to the house.

He hummed along with an old song which he had learned on one of the patrols of his father's thranedom, lost in thought.

I think I love this woman...No wonder Marty grins at me so, I am totally out of anything that is not Viniglaen....I hope my grades dont suffer. He had finished the roast beef and was waiting for the Gondorian sauce he had prepared to come to a finish.Oh who gives a damn!

He had left the door ajar so the house wouldn't be filled with the smell of his cooking, and soon he sensed some one in the house. He didn't even think about it, nor did his movements betray him, but his hand unconciously went for the fillet knife that was next to his spatula.

Ah, lady fair, lady mine, right on cue! And indeed, there was the object of his thoughts standing infront of him, with that beautiful half smile of hers.

"I figured that was you." Without a word she reached up and hugged him, her face in the side of his neck. He held her close and laughed.

"Its only been a few hours-" His body was loathe to seprate, and Ray had a new feeling that he knew all to well come and make itself comfortable in his guts. Oh boy...

"Here, taste this." He brought a taste of the sauce to Viniglaen's small lips, and she delighted in the taste. Ray couldn't tear his gaze from those half lowered saphire eyes.

"So good!" She liked it. Yes! He wanted to hold her close, but thought the better of it, now that the little beast had taken up residence in his stomach. It growled its disapproval.

"Of course so good," he replied, "and you ain't seen nothing yet, my lovely!"

"What's that incredible smell coming from the oven, Ray?" She had followed her nose to the main course.

"Wouldn't you like to know!" He was proud of his roast, and wasn't about to reveal his master piece.

"That's why I'm asking," she bantered back. He grinned and made a theatrical motion out of opening the oven and withrawing both the roast and the pasties that went with it. His work was not lost on an unapperciative audience.

"Oh, Ray!" That was all she could think to say, and he beamed with pride. Times spent learining the the kitchens were never lost! He took the food and wine to the table, pouring her a glass of his special Gondorian reserve.

Somehow, I think she is taking this well! The actual dinner went on for about an hour, where in they talked about many things, and as good as the food was, it was secondary on their mind, seeing as neither of them were that interested in the food.

They were both hungry for something of a different sort. Easy Raendil! You ar a gentle man, not a cad, slow down ere you scare her away! Again that logical side of him spoke up. But the wine, mood and the sight of Viniglaen gave that side the boot.

[Gordis]

Wednesday morning - early hours of Thursday, University.

Wednesday morning was sunny with a strong steady wind blowing from the South-West. The wind carried with it the smell of the Sea, which always made the Morgul Lord withdrawn and irritable.

Shortly before nine, a young soldier marched into the Chancellor's office bringing excuse notes for several of the students, including masters Marthalion and Raendil. According to the Captain Shah's letter, the students were on patrol somewhere in the wilderness, so had to be excused from lessons on Wednesday and Thursday. The Chancellor's frowned angrily.

"I have never allowed any of my students to serve in the City Guard! What they do in their free time is none of my business, but they have no call to miss classes for any reason whatsoever!"

The young soldier paled. The Icy Chancellor was every bit as intimidating as rumour told. Moreover, he was the King's cousin! Cringing slightly, the youth replied

"I beg your pardon, lord Chancellor, but I know nothing on the matter. I was only ordered to deliver the note. I am sure, when Captain Shah returns, he will give all the necessary explanations".

"And when may that be?" drawled the Chancellor. "Where did they go and why?"

"They have ridden out of the West Gate this morn, in great haste, my Lord. I heard there might be trouble by the mouth of the river. That is all I know". The soldier was eager to tell the news, hoping to get permission to withdraw from this room and out of range of the piercing silver eyes.

The Chancellor dismissed the soldier with a curt nod and sat alone in his office, deep in thought. He needed no map of the area, as it was forever burned in his mined, since the time when he had first planned the raid. The road to Lond Daer lay on the South Bank of the Gwathlo, but the patrol had chosen to take the shortest route, following the dirt track along the North bank. The country was very flat for almost two-thirds of the way, wet fields devoid of trees had succeeded to vast forests that covered the area back in his time. In his mortal time...

"It will be rough going anyway", thought the Chancellor, "and if it rains, the fields will become a mire of dirt, where the horses will sink down navel-deep."

Already with the steady wind blowing against the slow current, the waters of the Gwathlo had risen and started to overflow the shallow banks.

Calculating the time and distance in his head, the Morgul Lord decided to start the rain late at night. By this time, the patrol would be far away. They would be stuck, and the return journey would take several days.

***
The day seemed unending, but finally it drew to its close in the whistling of the wind, which had grown even stronger by nightfall.

This very night, the Morgul Lord stood again on the flat roof of Minas Aran, his arms outstretched towards the South-West, and his long dark mane streaming out in the wind.

He chanted a powerful spell, and the heavy clouds, laden with rain, came inland from the Sea. In an hour, the first droplets hit the Chancellor's face. By the time the Morgul Lord reached the Palace, the downpour began, water streaming down in torrents. The thought of the patrol, now drowning in mud, brought an evil smile to the Morgul Lord's lips

[Rían]

Wednesday night,
Itazel and Danor's place

RÃ*an awoke for the third night in a row with a wildly beating heart, looking around her room in terror and gasping for breath. Shaking, she quickly left her room and went to her brother's room.

Alagos was at the window, fully dressed, looking out into the windy night. He turned to look at her as she entered, concern written on his face. She ran to him, and he held her close, trying to calm her down.

"Did it happen again?" he asked quietly.

"Yes," she answered, still shaking. "It was even worse this time. This time, Galadannun ..." She stopped, unable to continue.

"You don't need to say it. Just know that it's only a dream, it's only a dream," soothed her brother as RÃ*an started crying quietly.

Later, after she had calmed down, Alagos decided to bring up the subject that had been keeping him up that night. "RÃ*an, I think we should leave here. I just ... I don't know, I'm just uneasy. I don't like it here - things just don't seem to - things just don't mesh. I can't put my finger on it, but I really feel that we should leave, and soon. Tyaron's a fast healer - he was a lot better just a few hours ago when I checked in on him, and today the two horses that I asked Raendil to get for us arrived. We can leave in the morning, riding slowly and taking our time. With three of us, I don't think we'll be in danger of any animal attacks, and even that attack was odd ... I don't think it will happen again, but let's head the other direction."

He put a finger under her chin and lifted up her face. "We have a lot of catching up to do, you know, we three," he said with the smile that his sister loved.

"All right," she said. "Let's just go - I think I need some time away from Tharbad. Some time under the stars, out in the open. Maybe then the dreams will stop... sometimes they even come in the day, very faintly..." She shuddered at the memory.

Alagos's eyes narrowed. He wanted very much to have a conversation with Galadannun involving metal, but that would only cause trouble and keep them in Tharbad. Sighing, he gave up that pleasant thought and turned to the practicalities of leaving.

"OK, then," he said, "let's write some notes to the people that we'd like to know, and then just leave. And if you want to try to get any more sleep, why don't you stay here, and I'll watch over you - I don't need sleep now, I need action. I'll pack up for the three of us, OK?"

"OK - oh, but I'll miss Eärniel so much, and the jewelry making class, and Professor Mahtaliel!" She added in her mind, "...and Valandil," but somehow she felt less than she thought she would at the thought of leaving the King. Curious ...

"And I'll miss Eärniel, too, and Raendil and Marthalion, and that Captain this morning seemed like a good fellow, too! But I think this is best for us all. And we might be back someday. And besides, we know where Eärniel lives. We can always come and visit her. So let's just go, OK?"

RÃ*an nodded her agreement, and in the early morning, as the Morgul Lord was calling up the rain from the sea, three figures on horseback left the city in the opposite direction.

[Udukhaturz]

Wednesday afternoon

A rapping at the front entry of Orrodel Mansion brought a servant quickly to the door.

“Yes? Who shall I say is calling, sir?�

“I am a messenger sent to deliver a letter to the Lady Lilaenwen. I would be most appreciative if you take it to her at once,� the dark-eyed, olive skinned man said with a slight accent.

“Yes, sir,� she said. “I will take it to her right away.�

“Thank you. Good day to you,� the man said and turned and walked away.

The maid quickly ascended to the upper level and knocked at Lilaenwen’s door. After a bobbed curtsy, she gave the letter to Lilaenwen, and after being dismissed, she returned to her other duties.

Taking the letter back to a desk, Lilaenwen drew a letter opener along the edges of the wax-sealed envelope, took out the missive and began to read:

“My dearest lady Lilaenwen,

I can no longer hide my feeling for you, no matter how hard I might try. They boil up inside me and rage like a wild fire of passion. I find myself thinking of you constantly. I lie sleepless upon my bed, unable to sleep, longing to hold you.

You have possessed me, bewitched me and left my emotions a reeling torment of desire for you! I am drunk upon love for you, sick unto death! Every moment apart from you is agony! I ache for you, long for you, yearning to kiss your lips, to touch your lovely hair with my hands, running my fingers through your tresses, feeling the softness! Oh, Lilaenwen! How you have left a king a senseless fool!

There is nothing that can bring me peace and happiness save the glorious sight of you! My heart will surely break and I shall perish if you deny me that!

I must meet with you tonight, my beloved. How it hurts me that the meeting must be in secret, for if I were able, I would proclaim to all the world my deep and enduring love for you. To do this, though, would attract far more public attention than either you or I would want. Oh, why can the world not leave us in peace, my beloved?

Darling, come to me tonight! I have arranged through a devoted and trusted friend the use of his house for the evening. Rest assured that he is most discreet and would never betray the secret of our tryst. It troubles my heart that we must meet this way, but perhaps in the future, a way will be found.

The house is the triangular shaped one on Menetar Street, near the livery stable. I have planned a pleasant dinner for us with the best of food and wine. Though flowers of exquisite beauty might sit in crystal vases upon the table, none could ever compare with the beauty of your face.

I await, my heart, for you to meet me there at 7 o’clock. If you do not, I feel that I will be so overcome with grief that I might throw myself upon my sword.

Your most appreciative and loving admirer,
Valandil

***

Udukhatûrz sat in his great hall in his new house and began to chuckle when Ulfang told him that the message had been delivered to the lady.

“Ulfang, an old colleague of mine will be here tonight to welcome the lady,� he laughed. “You and one other of my trusted men are to wait outside to keep watch; the other three are to be ready. I do not expect any trouble, though,� the tall, handsome Numenorean smiled. “My associate and I are quite able to handle all eventualities.�

“Yes, my lord,� the man replied. “All will be done as you requested.�

“One other thing,� Udu said. “When the lady is secured, stay clear of the dungeon until I give you permission to enter. Things could get a little, ahmmm.... warm there.�

[Lotesse]

****

[Lotesse]

Vivvie's repose in the wildflower glade was beginning to feel prematurely chilly. Her reverie was broken by the worried, gentle muzzling on her upturned face by Laslech, her beautiful gift from Raendil. It was probably only nigh upon four in the afternoon, but the fleeting clouds in the sky she'd been gazing at for so long had taken on a much thicker, darker hue, and the whistly, windy sound of nervous nature chilled her human form to the bone. Shuddering, she sat upright, and Laslech made a motion with her head to Viv to remount, and head back home.

Gathering her heavy black cashmere cloak about her shoulders, after shaking out the bits of grass and flowers, and tying it neatly at her chest, Viv took Laslech's mane in her right hand, and with her left steadied her body at the horse's back as she lightly jumped up and swung her leg over. She disliked riding with tack all the time, and this Wednesday afternoon she's decided to go without, in keeping with her generally restless and I-don't-care mood. The rapport she had with her mare negated any great need for tack, anyway, on leisurely outings like this.

With her cloak billowing fitfully around her, Viniglaen upon the majestic black Mearas struck quite a silouette, if anyone but her omnipresent owl and a butterfly or two had been observing them. Afternoon fantasies aside, Viv felt very keenly that something was in the process of happening, and maybe not just one thing, but many things, things which had to happen and were "in the plan," but things she had put aside processing until the time was urgent and undeniable. She reached into her kidskin bag, which she always kept slung across her shoulders when going out, and plucked out her pocketwatch - only five o'clock. Why did it feel so much ominously later?

"I feel I'm late for being needed," she thought, and chiding herself inwardly, she bade her mare go quickly back into town.

Her owl, who had spent the afternoon with her, was suddenly nowhere to be seen, but as yet, Viv didn't notice. All the ride back, she couldn't shake Ray from her mind. It was driving her mad. She needed him, and she detested needing anyone at all.

[Serenoli]

The afternoon sky was overcast, and gusty winds swept through Tharbad. Tolvadok was seated in the kitchen of Orrodel, exhausted from a morning of running around... for Lily, still angry at him, had taken this oppurtunity to give him as many menial tasks as possible, and in front of the other servants, too, so he could not even refuse. He had delegated as much as he could to the maids under him as soon as her back turned, but even then, running a hpusehold was no easy job. Supervising the washing, drying and ironing of every scrap of clothing that Lilanwen could find, had taken all morning. And then getting the lazy cook to prepare brekfast and lunch was made harder by Mistress Lilanwen's sudden demand for oysters.

Still, now she was upstairs and for the time being, quiet. And he was having a peaceful lunch, with the best wine he could find in the cellar. He was starting to understand why Buz was forever found getting out of the cellar. Even he, who disliked drinking, except when required to, socially, was feeling the need for something strong. Pity he could not get drunk...

He heard the front door open, and murmured words. He got up and went out of the kitchen into the corridor, from where he could see the hall. One of the maids, (what was her name again?) was taking an envelope from a man. Shutting the door, the maid, Silla, turned to ascend the stairs.

"Silla, what is that?"

She paused on the bottom stair and waited as he came up to her. She had already been scolded thrice by Tol for being lazy, and had quite lost the flirtatious air with which she had greeted his arrival.

"Its only a letter for the Lady Lilaenwen, so you needn't look so suspicious."

"Who is it from?"

"Didn't say. Why are you so interested, hmm? You're just a housekeeper, now, and i'm not showing it to you, if that's what you're thinking."

"Fine, go up and deliver it to her."

"That's what I was doing before you came interfering."

He waited until the maid had gone and come down, and the went up as well, using the service stairs. The door to Lily's boudoir was slightly ajar, and approaching, he peeked in. She was at her desk, her back to him, reading her letter. He decided there was no point sneaking up to her and trying to read it. He had better try the straight method. Either way, he meant to get that letter.

Gathering up courage, he pushed the door open.

[CrazySquirrel]

Orrodel, around five PM, Wednesday.

Lilly's heart was singing as she read.

"Wild fire of passion.... A reeling torment of desire! ....I ache for you, long for you, yearning to kiss your lips, to touch your lovely hair with my hands, running my fingers through your tresses, feeling the softness!... The secret of our tryst... loving admirer, VALANDIL !!!

At the last word, Lilly emitted a happy girlish squeal and jumped up in triumph. Eyes flashing and cheeks aflame, she danced across the boudoir undulating sensuously, till she suddenly bumped into somebody. There frozen, peering at her in wonder and disapproval stood Tolvadok, obviously somewhat at a loss.

When Lilly was happy, she loved the whole world. Gripping Tol's neck, she claimed his lips in a sensuous kiss. Taken unawares, Tolvadok struggled like a beached fish, till he finally broke loose, flushed and angry.

What... what in Angband, Lilaenwen? he hissed shakily. His need for a strong drink suddenly became overwhelming.

"I thought you came to finish what you started yesterday," replied Lilly frivolously. She laughed at the blushing Third. "But don't fret, baby. I have no time for you now. Another lover, far more important than you, awaits me."

Moving past Lilly, Tolvadok snatched the abandoned letter from the table and retreated in haste towards the door. He had no time to read it, but one glance at the signature was more than enough.

"Give me that letter, you, spawn of a warg!" yelled Lilly in frustration.

Tol slammed the door in her face and turned the key, which, luckily, was inserted outside. Lilly's weight crashed into the door; the heavy oaken doorframe shuddered, but withstood the assault easily.

Then Tolvadok rushed to the door of Buzukkumarz's room and locked it as well, before Lilly could collect her wits and remember she could exit this way, passing through her bedroom and Penny's room. Tolvadok congratulated himself that he took time yesterday to survey the layout of the house. Feeling smug, Tol pocketed both keys and added spells to reinforce the doors.

"You will go nowhere, Lilaenwen" he said sternly in thought-speech. "I will not allow you to meddle in the Captain's designs. The King is not for you."

A string of muffled curses was heard behind the door. Then, loud sobs followed. Tolvadok grinned. Only Buz was fool enough to get swayed by Lilly's display of emotion. But, luckily, Buzukkumarz was away drinking somewhere at the docks, as usual. Unmoved, Tolvadok went downstairs to read the letter in peace.

Hmm. It was a strange letter. Strange letter coming from a Dunedain King, that is. Tolvadok had seen many Faithful in his life, mostly on the other side of a dungeon grate, of course, but he came to know their unflinching morality and pigheadedness. Hardly any of them would try to seduce an innocent maiden, least of all the King. And there was not a word about marriage in this letter. Yes, it was strange...

On the other hand, who knows what tricks of shameless seduction had Lilly already played on this Valandil? Perhaps it was all her fault, if he thought her a cheap easy toy...

Or... what if Lilly, indiscreet as she were, made someone guess her identity, and now the King was alerted, and a trap set in that mysterious triangular house? If Lilly were captured, she would surely betray them all... and that was the end of the Quest!

At this last thought, Tolvadok felt a cold sweat on his forehead. He had to go and check this house himself, right away, before the enemy was ready. He went into his room and prepared himself for all the eventualities. A long stout sword at his belt. His Morgul knife. Knives in his boots. Several more unobtrusive, but effective weapons, mostly designed by himself, tucked everywhere. Several razor-sharp blades in his hat. Mailed gloves with secret poisoned spikes.

Finally, when the clock in the dining-room chimed five, he quietly slipped out through a back door and headed towards Manotar.

***
Ten minutes after Tolvadok's lean figure dissolved into the shadows of the back street, the sound of hooves was heard from the Augon Vin square in front of the house. Lilly rushed to her window that looked onto the square, and saw Vivvie approaching astride her beautiful Meara.

Lilly waved frantically and cried in the thought speech "Viv, my darling little sister! You are here in the nick of time. Come and rescue me! That stupid Tolvadok locked me in my room!"

She saw Viv frown, but wave back. Never before Lilly felt such love towards Vivvie. It was nice to have her sister at her side...

[Udukhaturz]

The Triangular House
Wednesday afternoon

Maethor had just put the finishing strokes to the letter he was writing as the warrior Ulfang stood waiting, arms folded, off to the side. Maethor blotted the ink and then rubbed a finger over the writing. He bowed his head, intoning a few words. “There, that should do it. Should this letter fall into the hands of mortals, they will see the words as a mere innocent invitation to dinner. To those of my own kind, though, the message will be far different.� He chuckled as he read over the contents of the letter.

“My Lord Khamul,

The trap has been laid, the bait has been placed; all that needs be done is just spring it. Go to my house on Menetar Street about 6:30 tonight. You cannot miss the building - it is the triangular one by the livery stable.

If at all possible, arrive a little early, and we can have a few drinks and discuss our plans. Perhaps later we can celebrate our victory with a late night toast.

Since you have not previously viewed it, I am sure that you are curious about the facilities that I have had constructed. There is a large central chamber with cells on two sides. Fine, well-built racks rest upon one side, along with other needful instruments. These cells are quite satisfactory to contain mortals, but they were never designed with the intent to hold any of our kind.

That matter has been taken care of with the construction of two other cells, down a corridor removed from the others. These chambers have been heavily enspelled, unescapable to anything or anyone other than those that should have more power than do we. As we both know, dungeons can be rather noisy. I have eliminated the possibility that screams might be heard outside by enspelling all of the walls so that no shrieks can escape and be heard.

There is another rather cunning feature about one of the cells. I call this, for lack of a better word, the ‘Quiet Room.’ When the doors are locked and sealed with spells, anyone or anything imprisoned inside will find their wails of agony reflected from the walls, floor and ceiling until the sound becomes so great that their minds are rendered with agony or their hearts burst with the sheer pressure of their own cries. I think you will find this room ingenious.

I shall expect you around 6:30.

Your colleague,
Udukhatûrz the Seventh�

Turning to Ulfang, he handed him the letter. “Take this to the Lord Khamul. If anyone should dare ask you the purpose of your business with him, tell them that the letter is a dinner invitation.

“Here, let me give you something before you leave,� he said as he took a strange glowing charm from inside his robe.

“You know that I am a wizard and associate with other wizards. You know also that some of us have the powers to be either visible or invisible. Take this charm with you. Keep it concealed inside your cloak. Should you feel a warmth emmanating from the object, you will detect upon a close inspection that it glows with a strange flickering light. By this sign, you will know that another of my order is close. Then I would advise you to steal away secretly for such a one is far more powerful than you could ever dream.�

“Yes, my lord, I understand,� the man bowed, backed away three steps, and then turned and walked out the door.

After the man had gone, Maethor heard a door opening behind him and the sound of footsteps approaching.

“My lord?� Tatyana said questioningly as she put her arms around his shoulders and kissed him. “Do you expect any trouble?�

“No, my love,� he said reassuringly, reaching up and taking her hand in his. “Should there be any, though, do not have any doubts that the Lord Khamul and I can handle it adequately. Now,� he smiled, “there is a little time remaining for us to spend together... privately.�

“Yes,� she replied in a husky voice. “Time just for us.�

[Lotesse]

During the half-hour trot home from her secret spot outside town, Viv let her mind savour the best bits of her tryst with her lover the previous evening. She'd been deflowered, finally, and her mind felt like it was exploding with the onslaught of new and complex and amazing feelings for this mortal, this man that she had given herself so wholly to. Viniglaen had gifted him with a family heirloom, a locket on a chain, made of expertly smooth-hammered mithril and inlaid with wisplike strands of brilliant gold in the lionshead and rearing stag pattern of her now ancient and long gone Numenorian family's crest. It had been given her by her own, true mortal mother, when Viv was only thirteen and her mother was dying of the wounds of a broken heart. 'When you find your man,' her mother had said to her that day, 'Never let him die, dear daughter. Never let your true love die, as your father has done to me.'

As Viv approached Orrodel, still lost in her thoughts, her mind was urgently interrupted by a frantic and frustrated Lilaenwen. Viv glanced up, and spotting Lil in the window, gave her a quick wave and mentally let her know she was on her way. 'Jeez, what now?' Viv was thinking; 'Where's Buz when we need him?'


Buzukhumarz had been out all day having a great time drunk-hunting with some fun locals. The men had made a testosterone-charged and ale-fueled day of it, out hunting for stag, and Buz was having so much fun that he hadn't noticed the day go by. But as the day grew more weird and blustery, the mortals he was out hunting with all rather lost their jollity and the drink lost its fun effect; a sort of pall had settled upon the hunting party, and they all decided to call it a day after no one had managed to bag a single animal and the winds and chill started whipping up.

[Lotesse]

Viv dismounted outside the entrrance to the stately Orrodel stablehouse, and handed Laslech over to the earnest, tow-headed young stableboy whom Rian had hired. The young man had been quietly and beautifully maintaining the entire grounds and gardens of Orrodel House, in addition to keeping the town's second largest and most architecturally impressive stablehouse in top, fresh form. It wasn't a terribly difficult task, anyway, as there were very few horses to occupy the huge stables, and no one ever bothered the boy. In fact, hardly anyone but Viniglaen ever even gave him any notice, or realised he was there. His name was Frankie Gladheart, but no one except Rian who'd hired him, his mother who lived down the way and made her living as a seamstress, and Viniglaen, who entrusted the lad with her most prized possession the Mearas Laslech, knew what his name was, and what he did.

She entered the mansion through the garden to kitchen entrance, next to the wine cellar door, like she often did when coming home. Wasting no time, she headed through the house and to the ornate, sweeping staircase, and swiftly and noiselessly as was her style, she swept upstairs, and made a beeline for Lil's boudoir. Taking a tanzanite-inlaid mithril barrette from her windswept locks, she deftly picked Lil's door, and as soon as she stepped over the threshold Lilaenwen was all over her, hugging her too tight and frantically going on about the terrible, warg-breathed Tolvadok, uncaring Buz, Kings, true love, and letters.

"What's this about the King, Lil; didn't I tell you what my owl learned of that kinglet you want so badly?"

"NO!" cried Lil, both surprised and angry. "No, you DIDN't, Viv! You know something, you learned something for me and you forgot to tell me? How could you forGET?!" Lil, confused about which emotion to fake for effect, just stood there and started to shake a little, as her real emotions took center stage. Great interest, a bit of annoyance, pleasure at her little sister's having followed through on the promise, and anxiety that the news may be coming at an inopportune time, all wracked Lilaenwen's sexy, towering body, and anticipated excitement shone through her tremendous green eyes once again.

"TELL ME!" she demanded, as she took Viv by her shoulders.

"ReLAX, Lilly! What is WRONG with you?" snapped Viv, firmly pulling Lil's long, slender paws off her shoulders. Viv ran a hand through her hair, sighed, and headed to one of Lil's huge, salmon-velvet cushy chairs and fell in with a tired thwomp.

Lil waited, looking at her expectantly. All trauma of having been locked in her room was irrelevant for the moment. All she wanted to hear was trusty Vivvie's inside scoop.

"So, this is what my owl reported to me," began Viv. "Marty said to Ray, in a private conversation they had yesterday, about you, that, and I quote, 'She is a social climber, and that kind of woman cares nothing for others but just about how to get to the top. I avoid women like those.' That's what the guy said. "

"Viv, I could care less about that silly boy! Don't you realise the King, the King himself, wants ME?!"

Viv raised one quizzical brow at Lil. Lilly huffed and shook her fists down in aggravation at that little response.

"What do YOU know, Vivvie! NOTHING, that's what!"

"Well, I'll tell you one thing, the entire feminine enrolled population at the University of Tharbad was either all over that King or attracting his attention in some way," said Viv, "and it was Aiwendis for whom he honestly looked taken with. He couldn't get enough of her, they say, and I have to admit I do believe that our Gor is under orders, or something, from our Lord, to bag that King herself. How else to explain her way with him? She's a pro, but we all know she's been fruitlessly in love with our Lord since day one, so... think about it. There's a reas- "

"I don't want to HEAR any more of this!" yelled Lil. "You know NOTHING!" Now she was really getting warmed up. "He - the King, Valandil himself, wants ME, that's right, ME, to visit him tonight at his private residence!"

"Really?" Viv was genuinely surprised and curious about this. "He invited you to his home?"

"Yes, that's right." said Lil petulantly. "Shows how much YOU know, miss smarty pants."

"Hmm."

'Well, 'Hmm' all you want Vivvie, because guess what? I need to get changed and dressed to meet him in less than an hour, and if you don't believe me, well all I can say is just you wait and see."

'You don't have to prove anything to me, Lil. I believe you, O.K.? I'm just kind of puzzled, is all. Plus I've got a lot going on in my own private love life lately, so... you know, the world doesn't revolve around just you, Lilaenwen."

Lil was pulling her mother-of-pearl brush through her luxurious flame-coloured hair, irritatedly listening.

"Ray and I - last night - we... we, you know. We got together."

The brushing stopped. Now, THIS was news! Lilaenwen came up to her sister, still encased in the plush chair. She knelt down next to her, beaming, and gently took Viv's hands.

"Our little Vivvie is growing up!" she said, "well, it's about time!"

Viv rolled her eyes, and pulled her hands away a little, tsking. "It's not like that, and you know it. I love this man," said Viv. "I really want to keep him."

"Keep him!" Lil tried not to laugh. "He's a mortal, you silly child! How long have you been here as one of us, and you still don't get it?"

Viv was quiet for a moment, looking down. She fidgeted with her fingers in her lap.

"Don't you have dresses to put on and cosmetics to apply right now," Viv said, trying to take the subject of conversation away from her precious Ray and the sanctity of her personal experience.

[Lotesse]

Buz burst through the back entrance, noisily stomping the mud off his big boots and taking off his trusty crimson woolen riding cloak.

Most of all, Pengolod/Buz was annoyed that his buzz had worn off, and that he'd been luckless at bringing home a stag to impress and delight Lilaenwen with, but something else was irking him, that something which comes to any member of the Nine when things are going on amongst them that could spell action, or trouble. It was high time he got together with some of the men of the group, and pitched in to help with what ever this arriving task was to be. Buzukhumarz had no way of knowing that it was his own dear Lil who was in danger of becoming disfigured and broken-spirited, at the hands of his own comrades. How could he know? He'd been out of touch with the Nine for the most part during the last few days, and rarely if ever took part in their complicated plots, anyway. How could he know the level of vicious and gruesome evil that was headed straight to the feminine target that was his own lovely tempstress of a girlfriend?

[CrazySquirrel]

Orrodel, Wednesday 5 - 6.30 PM

Viv's words about dresses and cosmetics changed the subject of the conversation quite effectively. Any other time, Lilly would have teased Viv for finally joining the ranks of TRUE women for hours upon hours, but now she instantly forgot about Viniglaen's stunning revelation.

Becoming all business-like, as dressing for a romantic encounter was a VERY important thing, Lilly went to her bathroom to wash. Viv followed her into the bedroom and stretched on a plush sofa to rest, lulled by the sound of running water coming through the open bathroom door. Unfortunately, Lilly's strident voice soon joined the splashing as she started boasting again.

"Can you imagine, Viv, there are all those uncountable mortal girls all over the King, and the stinking she-elves, AND our all-airs-and-graces, noble through and through Gordie, but still, STILL, mark you, he chooses me, Lilaenwen! You see, Vivvie? In less than two hours I will get the Kinglet, body, crown and all! I will be his Queen! I will make you my lady in waiting, Vivvie, and your Ray the Captain of Guards, if you like!"

"That is SO generous of you, Lil" laughed Viniglaen, rolling her eyes. "But it is really dangerous and unwise to try to snatch the King right from under Gor's nose! What will the Captain say?"

As usual, Lilly waved the obstacle aside. "He will say nothing. He will have a Nazgul-Queen in Arnor, as he wishes, AND he will keep his Gordie all for himself. Actually, he should be grateful!"

Viv shook her head; something was telling her that the Captain would hardly be grateful.

Meantime, Lilly returned into the bedroom wearing a golden coloured shimmy. She has chosen a low-necked emerald green gown, with yellow, almost transparent sleeves. She was going through her wondrous collection of jewellery, when she suddenly added, laughing.

"Have I told you of a trick I played on Gordie? No, of course, I didn't: you were always away with your lover!'

"What trick, Lilly?", Viv asked apprehensively.

"I told Val... that his precious Aiwendis was in love with ANOTHER!" Lilly blurted triumphantly. "Isn't it the truth, after all? " she added with a wink.

Viniglaen paled and sat bolt upright on the sofa. "What 'another'? Are you CRAZY, Lil? Did you name the Captain? I mean, the Chancellor?"

Lilly laughed so hard she couldn't speak. Finally, she managed to squeal "Oh... no... not her "father"... that would have been a BOMB!.... No, I named our Udu!"

That was a little better, but still quite foolish. Viv was preparing to start a long reprimand, when she heard heavy footfalls on the stairs.

"Buz!" hissed Lilly urgently in thought speech. "Don't tell him anything! Just play along!"

Viv nodded, worried and bewildered. She had no time to think about Buz, but now she felt sorry for him. He was so loving and trusting. Definitely, Lil had no heart.

Buz burst through the door and stopped perplexed, looking at the two girls. Lilly ran to him and kissed him tenderly. Buzukkumarz brightened.

"Buz, darling", said Lilly, "could you, please, fasten that necklace around my neck? We are going to the University palace, Vivvie and I. Gordie is holding the Ladies Sewing Circle meeting tonight and she wanted to introduce us to the noblest Tharbad ladies".

"Hmm..." muttered Buz, fumbling with the necklace, "may I accompany you?"

Lilly looked shocked. "Of course, not, my silly darling! Ladies only!"

Buz darkened again and shrugged his shoulders. He needed a drink badly.
"Then I will lead you to the University and continue on to a tavern. What is the use to sit here all alone, or with Tol? He is not a cheerful companion."

Stealing a moment, Viv went briefly to her room to comb her hair and to change. Embroiled in Lily's schemes against her will, she hated every moment of it.

Soon the company was ready. They proceeded across the Augon Vin towards the North gate of the University and walked to the Palace.

Buz left them at the doors of Aiwendis's wing, and strode alone towards the "Star of Earendil", a very decent establishment he had stumbled upon right alongside the Rotting Cod, to soothe his parched throat. But once there, the wine appeared sour to him. After a few glasses, he rose swearing and made his way to Orrodel to think.

The two girls stood hidden in the shadow of the doorway. When Buz's footfalls receded, Lilly turned to Viv and whispered
"I am off to meet the King. Go to Gordie now, have a nice time. Tell her your story, she will be an attentive listener, not like me. But, I bet, she has nothing interesting to tell herself, poor thing! Only DO keep quiet about my little JOKE. And about me and the King! If anybody asks, we were here together!"

Viv tried to argue, but strong Lilly's hands pushed her inside, where she was greeted by numerous Palace servants. There was no way back, Viniglaen had to meet Gor now. And she hated doing it, with so much on her conscience.

[The last sane person]

Dawn of Thursday,
Half way to Lond Daer

A loud falcon's scream rent the morning air and Shah quickly stuck out his fist. Black wing landed on it, and deposited her cargo into Shah's palm.

"What? Charcol? Did you raid a barbeque BlackWing? I pray you did...if not, that means-" BlackWing cut off her dear friend.

"It means exactly as we had feared. I flew as much as my wings allowed, that village has been raided and nought but ashes remain. And yes, it looks as if Raiders have taken all that were left alive."

"Damn it! MEN!" Shah roused his troops, as the rain the morgul lord had summoned wednesday night hit them. "Fall to it men! Saddle the horses and arm yourselves! To the river! We have pirates to deal with!"

The men were stunned, but the rain and situations roused them into action, and soon they were racing off to meet with Marty. "BlackWing? Can you make it to him and tell him we are on our way? Tell him what is up. " Shah and his men were now on the grassy flats, avoiding the mud hole that the dirt road had become, galloping for all they were worth. Blackwing was crouched on Shah's fist, wings tucked back and head down in her most aerodynamic postition.

"Gladly, and I shall fly to lady Mahtaliel after that."

"Bird, you are a wonderful beast!" Blackwing bowed her head and gave an affectionate cry.

"Old man, I owe you nothing less for healing me. Off I go, I pray to the winds that you reach the other men in time!" She opened her wings and shot off like a dart up into the sky, soon lost to sight in the stormy clouds.

Shah looked up, rain washing his face. He smiled and shouted his commands to Raendil, who nodded and branched off with six men, to create a pincer. Volricom gave a stallion's bellow, and both men and horses gave off their war cries as they made a desperate race to the river.

[Gordis]

The University Palace, around seven PM, Wednesday.

A tall maid let Viniglaen into Aiwendis's study. Viv noted a worried expression on the maid's face, and a good deal of hidden fear in her eyes. But she had no time to think about it, as she had to face Gordie.

Aiwendis was sitting in a rocking chair near an open window, pale and unhappy, a forgotten book on her lap. Outside, the tall laurel trees moaned in the wind. The night was falling, but not a single candle burned in the room. Aiwendis sighed and slowly turned her head to look at Viv.

"Here you are, little one. What news?" she asked with a sad smile.

"Nice to meet you, Aiwendis" replied Viv. "Why are you so sad?"

Aiwendis rose nervously and leaned on the window sill. "This weather is getting on my nerves" she admitted. "This wind...Can't you smell the Sea, Vivvie? It breaks my heart. I used to love the sea so much while I was alive!"

"So did I, Gordie", replied Viv, "so did I. Those of us from the fair Yozayan dream of the Sea constantly. But we can't approach it anymore..." There were tears in her violet eyes now.

Aiwendis turned to her in sympathy. "Sorry, little one, I distressed you. But you looked worried anyway. Do you feel that unease in the air, something brewing, something that is about to happen?"

"Oh, then you felt it as well!" cried Viv. Do you know, what can it be? Did our Lord say something about it?"

'No, he didn't, he hardly spoke with me today. He spends all his free time in the Observatory. But I have no doubt he feels it more keenly than any of us."

There was an uncomfortable silence. Soon Aiwendis turned to Viv and looked at her intently, with her bottomless gray eyes, the color of the stormy sea.

"Viniglaen, you know something, but you are reluctant to tell me. And you seem strange somehow. Not as you used to be. What is it, Viv?"

[Lady Marion Magdalena]

Thursday morning

Mahtaliel hated waiting.

Wednsday morning she had found herself barely able to concentrate on her teaching, distracted by empty seats and worry.

Wednsday afternoon she was jittery and caught herself pacing or doing busywork more often than she would have liked.

Wednsday evening she forced herself to eat and thought about visiting with her older colleagues, but Bumbledore was alseep and Jas was absent from his rooms.

After passing a sleepless night she had finally given up on trying to find distractions from worry and retreated to the top of the walls once more, ignoring the wind and rain.

Now she was just waiting.

She wondered what sort of wait this one would turn out to be.
Would it like the waiting she had done in her childhood? Like the times when her cousins had always returned from their hunting victorious and more confident than before and she would run down to greet them?

Or would it be the more recent sort? The type of waiting where you could never know if you were waiting for friends or enemies to arrive until they showed up on the doorstep and if it turned out to be enemies you'd better react quickly and push the thought that the waited for friends would probably never arrive anymore out of your mind.

She hadn't dared to wait in the first way since her fifty-sixth year. Resigned to waiting in the second, she fingered the keys hanging at her waist and kept her eyes looking southwards.

[Lotesse]

"Viniglaen, you know something, but you are reluctant to tell me. And you seem strange somehow. Not as you used to be. What is it, Viv?"

Long, mournful shadows swayed drunkenly around the room, cast from the garden cypress trees and lamppost outside Aiwendis' window, and the human-sounding wails and whimpers of the wind would have unnerved a mortal girl. No wonder Gordis' lady-in-waiting had such a tight and drawn look about her. Viv put her hand to her forehead, looking down, and then looked up and into Gordis' eyes.

"Something's not right," she said. "I just left Lilaenwen, and you know how she likes to play man-games and so forth, right? She always wants a conquest; it's what makes her happy. Morgoth knows we all look for our own brand of happiness, wherever or however we can get it, living like this. But listen, Gor, something's not right. I fear she's headed into some kind of trap, or... "

Gordis came up to Viv, and took both her hands into her own, and looked Viv steadily in the eyes.

"Where is she going right now?" asked Gor.

"She says she got an invitation from King Valandil, and that he wants her, and she kept going on and on about how he was going to make her his queen, and that our Captain would be pleased, and so forth. Gordis, please don't get angry with her! She's just being herself. But something tells me that it's just highly unlikely that this King would invite her to his home and promise all this; I mean, my owlspy Lomi informed me that Valandil was in actuality acting very concerned and smitten with YOU, less than a day ago. All of it is so confusing, and something just doesn't fit."

"What else do you know, Viv? I'm not angry," Gor added, softening a bit, seeing the tension and the struggle on Viniglaen's face. "Don't be troubled, young one; I know how hard it is for your little heart to be keeping secrets from us. That Lil knows better than to be coercing you into her games. Here," she said, handing Viv a snifter of the crystal bottle of Haradrian orange cognac she'd had at her sidetable.

Viv gratefully accepted the proffered cognac, and sipped the contents thoughtfully for a moment, then impulsively drained the whole snifter. She set the glass down, and sat heavily upon Gor's lush midnight blue velvet chaise lounge near the window. The rain was coming down jagged and angry, now.

"Now Viv, tell me. You say something doesn't fit. What is it?"

Sighing hard, Viv looked up and faced Gordis.

"I can't put it in words, I just know something's going to happen to her, and I feel very strongly that she's in danger. From herself, from strangers, maybe even from Khamul for all I know, but - well, something feels terribly wrong, and you'll know better than I about that King guy, but he - he never struck me as the kind of fellow to profess undying love for the kind of woman that is our Lil. You know what I'm saying?"

"Oh, more than you could realise," said Gor grimly. "It sounds like Lilly might be walking into some kind of trap tonight."

"But who's trap?"

Gor thought for a moment.

"The last thing I want," Gordis continued slowly, "is for harm to come to that brat, because even though she can be intolerable, and obviously she's deliberately been trying to foil my assignment with that King, still I would not wish her harm."

"Who's trap?" persisted Viv.

"Viv, I have to go to our Captain about this, right now. There's no time to waste. I have no idea who's trap, but he must know. Maybe he'll have a desire to speak with you himself, and if that's going to be the case, perhaps you ought to stay here tonight for a few more hours, until we get this all straightened out."

Viv was visibly relieved. She did not feel like being alone; there was too much uncertainty and danger in the crazy night wind, and she wanted to be near the Morgul Lord in case he called for her, and in case she might need some protection for the night. She made a mental note to herself to mention to her Captain the status of her relationship with the Kingsman Raendil, not only for the good of her Family, but also for very personal reasons.

"One more thing," added Viv as they got ready to leave, "She told me that she'd told that King that you were, in fact, having an affair with our Udu. Maybe Udu found out about that little game, though I have no idea how he could have."

"Well, we shall mention that as well to our Captain." answered Gordis, irritatedly tying the satin ribbon of her cloak about her neck, an angry look in her eyes. Her lips were narrowed in a tight line, she looked so angry, but being the reserved, laadylike sort, she kept her fury at this news inside her.

The women donned their cloaks, pulling up the hoods close to their faces against the creeping, chilling nightstorm damp of the halls of the Chancellor's palace, and together made to leave to seek out their Morgul Lord.

[Serenoli]

Croak.

Great, Jas thought. Just when it was getting to be a bearable dream, it becomes a nightmare!

Well, now what? So he was a frog. It wasn't such a disaster... frogs lived, too, didn't they? And presumably, they had supper when they were hungry. And he was still hungry, and there was the supper lying there waiting for him.

He walked towards it. No, wait, he wasn't walking. He was hopping. It was difficult. He found it made his legs ache to be always bent like that, and yet, he couldn't stand upright. Well, then, he would hop, if there was nothing else for it. None of that would matter when the void in his stomach would be filled.

Yes! He had reached the table. With superhuman, or rather, superfrog effort, he lifted himself up and made to gobble a huge leg of chicken... but, what was this? The table was full of, well, chicken, but it looked so- slimey! so unedible! so... there was no other word for it- yucky!!

***
Croak.

Jas flapped into the corridor outside his room. There were too many things in his once snug and comfortable room that reeked of humans. It was too dry for one. His skin itched, and his huge clumsy webbed feet were of no use. He needed... what was the word? an image came into his head, of something cool, soft, rippling, soothing... and with a shock, the human part of him realized he was forgetting words, and starting to think in images! Water, man, water! cried the rapidly dying human Jas, while the froggy part sagely craoked something that sounded oddly like, 'no, not man, anymore'.

He hopped some more. He was getting better at it. Hop, breathe, hop. It was nice. But what was nicer, was... what was it again? water.. came the buried whisper of a once-human mind.

Out one corridor and into the next, and then two more. But what was this? An obstacle. An instinct told him that beyond lay liberty... liberty from these walls that closed in upon one... instinct and that memory of his, so faulty, supplied one last piece of information before giving up altogether: "Push It"

He pushed It.

It opened.

His eyes beheld a heavenly sight. Moonlight curling and swirling over a silver darkness, a garden of surpassing beauty, and there it was, beyond the edge of hearing, but to his hungering ears, like a bugle... the sound of running water. Quicker than thought, a single, contented croak came out, and he was not just hopping, but practically skipping towards the sound. And there was another It. Smaller this It was, but still, an obstacle. Well, he knew how to deal with them now. He pushed again, and this time, he found the fountain... the fountain that gurgled merrily, in the enchanted garden, where ghosts lived and no mortals lingered.

His happiness was complete, with only a single fly in his ointment; namely the absence of any flies to complete his supper with. But, flies have a way of turning up where they're not wanted, and where they are. He could wait. Meanwhile, he was in for the loveliest swim of his lifetime.

It was lucky for him, that Gordis the Eighth, did not visit her fountain that night. It would have added one more sorrow to her already laden plate, and who knows what further trials he would have to endure at the hands of the Chancellor's daughter?

At nine o'clock the next morning, no one had spotted Jas, and he had woken out of his sleep slightly bewildered, and still hungry. He thought and thought what to do, and hit upon a solution. He would sing, and thus attract flies. (One can see how inexperienced he was. A true frog would have warned him off singing at once... flies hate it from their blood)

His melodious warbles floated through the air, and landed in the delicate ear of a passing elf. Her name was Eärniel.

[Udukhaturz]

“Captain, there are horsemen approaching on the shore, knights from the looks of them!� the agitated voice of one of the pirates called out. “There,� he pointed, “you can see them through the trees!�

A brown signal flag was hauled up the mast of the Sagkúr - the message to the other ships in the small fleet that a land-based enemy had been sighted.

“Wretched place to launch arrows,� Captain Ollotarnon said to Captain Ulfast.

“True,� the other captain replied, “but the taste of our barbs might discourage them for a while.�

A two-color flag was run up - the signal that all ships were to haul towards the shore and the bowmen would fire. A fierce volley of arrows was soon unleashed into the woods along the shore, and screams proved that at least some of the arrows had been true.

“Turn the craft to port side and head downstream! We must put distance between these fools!�

“Raise oars!� the keleustes cried and began to pound their mallets on their drums. “Raise oars!�

The pilots turned the ships skillfully to the left. “Dip oars!�

The beat on the drums grew fiercer. “Stroke!�

The oarsmen drove the boats rapidly down the river. Then when at last the sight of their enemy could no longer be seen, the captain told a slave, “Wine for Captain Ulfast and me.�

As they stood drinking in the prow of the boat, the two men smiled at each other. “The captives from the three villages that were destroyed are far away, safely on their way to Umbar. True that the peasants had little gold, but they are a fair folk and will bring good prices on the auction blocks. Altogether, Captain Ulfast, this has been a successful foray. The question is now - is it time to call this venture over and return to Umbar or to lay to the opposite shore and wait for a better day?�

“Captain Ollotarnon,� the darker man laughed, “Is there any need for haste? The rest of the ships should be here by tomorrow, and with a greater force, we will be better prepared for richer game. Let us finish our wine.�

Captain Ollotarnon raised his goblet, “To Harad!�

“To Umbar!� the other man replied.

“To fair winds!�

“To rich spoils!�

“To success!�

[The last sane person]

Thursday, Marthalion's patrol

Marty and his scouts had pulled back into the woods to ready their bows and quivers, each man pouring their own version of (greek fire?) onto the arrows. With the message given to them by BlackWing to hold their ground for the twelve patrol men galloping to aid them. But they had been spotted. Marty barely noticed in time the raising of the flags on the main corsair ship.

"DOWN! FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE GET DOWN!" His men hit the deck, but two of them not fast enough. His lieutenant and a private in his patrol were hit, one in hte shoulder the other in the stomach.

Once the volley had ceased, the men had their fire going in the sheltered area underneath the trees. Arrows were lit and bows were ready.

"Alright men, keep the bows lowered until you have your target, go for their rigging! I want every arrow to count! FIRE!" At once and as one, a hundred and six steel bows of Arnor sang a shrill, flaming death song for the corsairs. Even with the rain, the mainsail of the leading ship was smoldering with the unquenchable fire. The captian was calling for scattered men to cut it and cast it into the river. Limp bodies hung over the sides, some with regular arrows, and others with fire still burning in their bodies.

"SECOND VOLLEY! GO!" Marthalion and his men drew, prayed to Manwe, and fired. More hit their mark, and more flame erupted. "Hit the deck!" By now the pirates had gathered their wits to send back a volley, but it whooshed over the river patrols head, after they had ducked behind their trees.

Suddenly, Marty caught with the tail of his eye riders comming from behind. "Kiral! Go flag down Shah, tell him to grab some arrows and sneak to another spot and return fire, give us some relief!" Marty doged to grab his bow as a pirate's dart burried itself near his hand. "Sons of whores!" His face disfigured by a savage snarl as he selected a steel arrow, sighted and shot. Another savage snarl of satisfaction escaped him as he saw his man tumble with Marthalion's arrow lodged in his throat.

finish it later

[Telcontar_Dunedain]

"Professor," called Sapthan. "A letter for you."
"A letter. From who?" replied Khamûl.
"I did not recognise him yet he was not from around here. I think he was from the east if I could tell anything from his accent," said Sapthan.
"Udu," muttered Khamûl, snatching the letter from Sapthan and storming up oi his apartment and opening the letter.

"My Lord Khamul,

The trap has been laid, the bait has been placed; all that needs be done is just spring it. Go to my house on Menetar Street about 6:30 tonight. You cannot miss the building - it is the triangular one by the livery stable.

If at all possible, arrive a little early, and we can have a few drinks and discuss our plans. Perhaps later we can celebrate our victory with a late night toast.

Since you have not previously viewed it, I am sure that you are curious about the facilities that I have had constructed. There is a large central chamber with cells on two sides. Fine, well-built racks rest upon one side, along with other needful instruments. These cells are quite satisfactory to contain mortals, but they were never designed with the intent to hold any of our kind.

That matter has been taken care of with the construction of two other cells, down a corridor removed from the others. These chambers have been heavily enspelled, unescapable to anything or anyone other than those that should have more power than do we. As we both know, dungeons can be rather noisy. I have eliminated the possibility that screams might be heard outside by enspelling all of the walls so that no shrieks can escape and be heard.

There is another rather cunning feature about one of the cells. I call this, for lack of a better word, the ‘Quiet Room.’ When the doors are locked and sealed with spells, anyone or anything imprisoned inside will find their wails of agony reflected from the walls, floor and ceiling until the sound becomes so great that their minds are rendered with agony or their hearts burst with the sheer pressure of their own cries. I think you will find this room ingenious.

I shall expect you around 6:30.

Your colleague,
Udukhatûrz the Seventh"

'Victory?' thought Khamûl. "It seems that Udu is more naive than I suspected. This is not a victory. Only damage control. Lady Lilaenwen has already interfered in the Captains plans more that she should have.'
"Sapthan," said Khamûl, after returngin to the ground floor of the library. "Where is the Chancellor?"
"In the Observatory, he arrived a few minutes after you went upstairs, yet he said he did not wish to be disturbed," replied Sapthan.
"Well I'm sure he won't mind one visitor," answered Khamûl, turning and walking up to the Observatory.
"My Captain," said Khamûl, entering the Observatory.
"I thought I told Sapthan I did not wish to be disturbed," replied the Morgul Lord coldly.
"You did, yet I though that you would wish to hear what I have to say."

[Serenoli]

A strong wind whipped Tolvadok's fair hair from his face, as he strode purposefully down the streets of Tharbad towards Menetar. His face was set and grim, and he was trying to figure out his course of action. He decided the best way to act would be to snoop around, until he knew exactly what the King was up to, and if he smelt any traps, he could then prevent Lily from turning up.

He turned a corner, and it was there before him, unmistakeably triangle, looming over the rest of the street. He walked up straight to its front door, intending to ring the bell on the pretense of looking for someone else, so he could find out who lived there. But as he reached up to pull the bell-rope, he suddenly felt a familiar presence... one of the Nine, surely it wasn't... Udukhaturz?

'Tolvadok, what are you doing here?'

He tried to disguise the intense astonishment he was feeling, and replied, 'Just passing by, didn't realise you lived here. See you later.' And he walked off fast before Udu could say anything more.

Udukhaturz... now what was he up to? He was now sure that the King was just a lure for Lily... or had the King trapped both Lily and Udu? No, wait, that was just silly. Udu would never be caught like that. Either way, this was something he should report to the Captain. He could have confronted Udu, but that might have resulted in some heavy fighting. No, it was best to let the Morgul Lord know what was going on, and let him decide.

He strode on, just as purposefully as before, making his way to Tharbad University.

***

It took some time to locate the Chancellor, but some asking around elicited the information that he had been closeted in the Library for most of the day, so he made his way there.

Throught the main hall, and up to the Scriptorium, he went, and there he found a man, perusing a complicated looking book. As he entered, the man informed him frigidly that the Library was closed for the day.

"I have not come here to read books, but I was told the Chancellor is here. I need to see him very urgently."

"On no account is the Chancellor to be disturbed now. You had better come back tomorrow." With that, Sapthân went back to his book, stroking his trim beard, and taking no further notice of Tolvadok.

Tolvadok sized the man up. Tall, well-built and with the dark hair and eyes that spoke of a Númenórean descent, and with a hint of sorcery about him. It would be dangerous to try spell-work against him, in that case. Time was running out, running out for Lily, and much though he disliked her, he did not intend to let her walk into a trap without doing everything he could to help her.

The man looked up, slightly annoyed now, "Why are you still here? Haven't I told you you can not see the Chancellor today?"

"Yes, I was just wondering-" and Tolvadok's voice took on that polite tone he knew so well how to use, "-if you couldn't give this letter to him when he is free?"

He pulled out the "King's" letter and held it out.

"Very well, give it to me, I'll make sure he gets it."

He stretched his hand out, and Tolvadok grasped it. Sapthân's eyes widened in horror, and he gave a single gasp. He tried pulling his hand free, but it was no use, Tolvadok was standing, and he was sitting, and had not time to get up, and the Nazgûl's grip was merciless, and unshakeable. With a shudder that travelled up and down his body, Sapthân sank slowly on to the desk before him, his hand still in the iron grip of Tolvadok.

The Nazgûl pulled his hand out of the iron glove he was wearing, and the glove was stuck to Sapthân's hand. Softly, he pulled the glove, and it came off smoothly, the poisoned spikes on it leaving behind only the tiniest red perforations on Sapthân's long-fingered hand. The poison was quick-acting, and the man would not be unconcious for very long. But it was enough. He then whispered the smallest of memory spells... just enough to make sure that Sapthân would not remember his face. Let him remember everything else, but Tolvadok's features would be blurred for him. Tolvadok knew it was dangerous to try and erase too much memory; especially as he knew better than anyone else that his own skills lay more in the battle field. But small spells were easy, and they worked well.

He then turned and took the stairs that led upto the Library. He found all three levels of the Library empty, but the higher he went, the more he felt the presence of other Nazgûl near him. There was one final door, the steps which led to the observatory, and he made his way to it. As he pulled the door open, he found before him the Morgul Lord, and Khamul, and he knew they had sensed his presence too. They were waiting for him.

"Good evening, my Lord", he said courteously, and nodded at Khamul, "I am sorry if I am interrupting, but I had something important that I had to bring to your notice. Its about Lilanwaen."

[Gordis]

Observatory atop Minas Aran, Wednesday around 6 PM.

Khamul was in the midst of his heated speech, bringing up again all Lilly's faults and his own grievances, when the Morgul Lord, with a gesture of his hand, commanded him to be silent. There was another nazgul approaching, whom both of them immediately identified as Tolvadok the Third.

"The Observatory becomes a popular place today," noted the Morgul Lord dryly.

They waited in silence, and soon the thin figure of the Third nazgul appeared on the roof, his fair hair whipping in the wind. Looking at his pale countenance and delicate features, one would have never believed that the enemies had nicknamed him "Gothmog" after the fiery Barlog. Indeed, Tolvadok was fierce in battles, but otherwise always cold and withdrawn.

The Third nazgul bowed to the Morgul Lord, nodded to Khamul, and uttered a courteous greeting. Then he addressed the Captain.

"I am sorry if I am interrupting, but I had something important that I had to bring to your notice. Its about Lilanwaen."

The Morgul Lord laughed. "I see our vivacious Lilly had managed to irritate everybody. Khamul here was complaining about her behaviour; it seems that the vixen had even dared to kiss him, among other things. Has she done the same to you, Tolvadok?"...

The Captain laughed again, seeing Tol's blushing face.

"I see, she has!"

"As a matter of fact, it was not the reason..." started the Third, visibly embarrassed. Khamul smirked.

"You should have expected it, Tolvadok," the Captain continued, serious now. "Lilaenwen always tries to get in power by flaunting her wares in front of her betters. Once you were appointed the head of the Orrodel group, you have become her target. If you do not watch yourself, you will end up in her bed, which might be rather pleasant, but, what is worse, you will end up fawning under her heel."

"My captain", interrupted Tolvadok, urgency in his voice. He didn't wish to hear more with the memory of Lilly's rosy lips still fresh and stinging.
"My Captain, Lilaenwen is in danger. Someone has set a trap for her, it seems".

"Who may that be?" asked the Morgul Lord with a frown.

"It seems, it is Udukhaturz." replied Tolvadok. In a few words he told the story of the love letter from the King and how he had found Udu in the triangular house. While he was speaking, he noticed that Khamul's face progressively darkened. Soon the Second could remain silent no more.

"My Lord" started Khamul, glaring at Tolvadok, "I was coming to this part of my report, when we have been interrupted. As I have pointed out, Lilaenwen deserves severe punishment for her misdeeds and follies. However, remembering your orders, I have refrained from taking action myself, especially considering that she is Tolvadok's responsibility now, not mine. But an hour ago, I have got a message from Udukhaturz, telling of his cruel plans towards Lilly and asking me to join him. Being always faithful to you, my Lord, I decided to take the letter to you to ask for your orders on the matter."

The Morgul Lord took the proffered letter and studied it in silence.

"You said you have never heard about it before, my lord Khamul" observed the Captain darkly. "Why then Udu speaks of "our" plans and "our" victory?"

Khamul shifted uneasily, eyes riveted to the polished granite of the Observatory floor. "Udu mentioned this to me before, but I waited till his plans were ripe, before reporting to you. Udu was ever a rebel, he would have never told you himself."

"I know that", said the Morgul Lord icily. "He is a fool if he thinks to keep secrets from me and act without my permission."

"If you command, I can still prevent Lilaenwen from walking into the trap," proposed Tolvadok. Somehow, to his own surprise, he found the idea of Lilly's torture disturbing.

The Morgul Lord walked to the parapet and looked at the busy Arandel square below. Khamul's and Tol's eyes followed him anxiously. The Captain's next words surprised both of them.

"You have my permission now."

They stood for some time in silence. Tol's long-forgotten heart ached. Khamul smiled cruelly.

"Go and join Udu. He might need your help. Keep it secret, don't confide in any of our kind. You may do what you want with her mind and soul, as for her body, her hröa, as the Elves put it, it is far too lush to be permanently damaged. Don't inflict any wounds that won't eventually heal. You have my orders. Go now."

[Udukhaturz]

The Triangular House
Wednesday afternoon

“Ulfang, when the lady arrives, tell her that her admirer has been detained and will be along later. Show her into the Red Salon and seat her on the divan. That way when she passes into unconsciousness, she will not fall and destroy any of my furniture imported from the East.� Maethor stood beside the cold hearth, his arm extended over the mantelpiece, his fingertips tapping on the wood.

“And you, my lovely Tatyana, will add a few drops of this draught to her wine,� he said, reaching into his robe and drawing out a vial and handing it to Tatyana. “Not too much, my love, and not one taste! This draught would put a balrog to sleep for days!� He looked at the vial thoughtfully. “Perhaps, though, considering, that would be just as well; at least the Lady Lilaenwen would be quiet. Yes, a dram or two more will not hurt her.�

“Yes, my lord, I will put in just a bit more,� she smiled.

“Now when she is sleeping blissfully like a babe upon the divan, Ulfang, you will send one of the men to light a lamp in the upstairs hall window. When I see its glow, I will know that all is in readiness.�

“Master, do you expect any trouble?� asked Ulfang.

“Not if everyone does exactly as he or she is told. Flatter her. Admire her clothing and jewelry. Tell her anything, just so it pleases her. She loves that and will eat it up like sweet cake.�

“Master, is there anything else that we should remember? I do not want there to be any problems either,� Tatyana asked, walking gracefully and reclining upon the divan.

“Remember that though she might not look it, Skessa is a most powerful creature. However, I find most of all her loud voice obnoxious. She never stops talking, and when she screams, all the glassware in the building might explode. Keep her quiet! Do not give her any reason to be upset.�

“Master, will that be all?� Ulfang asked.

“Yes, I believe so. You are dismissed.�

“Now, Tatyana,� Maethor said as he walked over to the fireplace and reclined beside her on the couch, “we have a bit of time...�

“Yes, my lord,� she purred, reaching over and touching his face, “we do!�

[Telcontar_Dunedain]

"Yes M'Lord," said Tol, turning to leave as Khamûl bowed.They left the University grounds in silence, not a thought or word uttered until they reached the gate.
"Where do you think you're going," said Khamûl to Tol as he tuned left out of the University Gates.
"To Udu's house, as the Captain ordered," replied Tol.
"Not tht way you aren't. That way leads straight past Orrodel, the way that Lilaenwen will be going. Do you not think that sensing both you and I travelling past orrodel in the same irection will alert her? She may be a little foolish, but she isn't that stupid. Is she not still a Nazgûl? We will go this way," said Khamûl turning right.
"So," said Tol a few minutes later. "What has Lily done to anger you?"
"Never you mind," said Khamûl. "Yet it warrants such punishment."
"I trust it does," said Tol.
"Punishment which I am permitted to implement," said Khamûl coldly.
"That I do not doubt. Yet in this situation I deemed it right that the Morgul Lord should now," said Tol coolly.
"I'm sure you did. Yet let me make one thing clear. If ever you betray me again then you will be made to pay," said Khamûl.
"Is that a threat Lord Khamûl?" said Tol.
"Why yes. And you would do well to remember your place Toldovak the third," sneered Khamûl as they turned the corner on to Menetar Street.

[Udukhaturz]

The world was a hazy blur to Sapthan when at last he finally woke up on the floor of the Scriptorium. He shook his head groggily and then sank back into oblivion.

A huge yellow dragon was approaching him, breathing fire that smelled of Eastern incense.

“Hail, friend,� the beast hissed as its great tail lashed back and forth, knocking over trees behind its great bulk. “Go back! You cannot pass this way!�

“Who are you to impede my path?� challenged Sapthan, who was mounted upon a huge red roan stallion.

“One far older and wiser than you!� the dragon exclaimed. “Go back now if you value your life!�

The metal swished as Sapthan’s sharp sword left the scabbard at his thigh. He touched his heels to his horse’s sides. Urging the great steed forward, Sapthan hoisted his sword aloft, and charged towards the dragon’s face.

The dragon leered and opened his mouth, and out bellowed fire and steam. Sapthan screamed and dropped his sword as he felt a searing fire rip down through his arm. He plunged to the ground from the side of the horse and lay in the dirt, groaning. He looked up into the eyes of the dragon as it curled its long tongue down, reaching towards his face...

“No, no!� he shrieked as he awoke again, his right arm and hand in agony. He struggled to his feet, holding on to a chair for support and looked down at his hand. Angry tiny red wounds glared up to him. How he get them?! He tried to remember. There had been a man... what had happened then? Who was he? Sapthan remembered that he had wanted to see the Chancellor and there had been an argument, and then... and then... he could do nothing but the dragon’s tongue reaching out for him.

His head reeled, feeling dizzy as a wave of nausea hit him in the stomach. His hand on the chair trembled unsteadily. He had the vague sense that he had been poisoned, and tried to remember a spell that might counteract it.

“Chancellor!� he moaned as darkness overtook him again and he fell face forwards onto the floor.

[Udukhaturz]

“My lord,� Tatyana murmured as Maethor embraced her and kissed her passionately, “ohhh... my lord!�

An insistent knocking at the door brought curses to lips that had been busy kissing. “What is it?� Maethor asked angrily. He had already sensed the presence of two other Nazgûl but he did not think it would harm to tarry a while longer with the voluptuous Tatyana.

“Two visitors, Master,� came the hesitant voice of Ulfang.

“Urk!� Udu hissed as he disentangled himself from twining limbs. “A moment!� he replied.

A few minutes later when Udu was fully dressed, he walked to the doorway. “Who are they?� he growled as he opened the door, revealing the sight of a flustered Tatyana, who was sitting up on the divan and pinning her hair.

“Professor Galadannun and another man whom I have never seen before, Master. I showed them in to your reception hall, and they are there now waiting.�

“I have been expecting the Professor. Bring them in here, and we will talk.�

After bowing his way out the door, Ulfang was away on his assigned mission, and Maethor walked back to Tatyana. “The Professor is part of my plan... the other one... I am not sure why he is here. You will play hostess, my love,� he said as he took her in his arms and found her lips.

[Gordis]

Awiendis and Viniglaen descended a flight of stairs onto the veranda and walked through the palace garden ravaged by the early autumn gale. While they were screened by the Palace building, the going had been easy, but once they turned the corner into the Bar Amrun, the wind became a living thing: it threw twigs and yellow leaves in their faces and sent their cloaks flapping and billowing behind them.

Aiwendis led the way, still angry and frustrated from the revelation of Lilly's last joke. An affair with Udu! How silly! She was little concerned about the King now, much more was she worried about the Morgul Lord's reaction. A few times in her life she remembered him jealous, without any reason that she could see. His temper was frightening: he cared little about his women, but hated to share them with anybody. "I hope he understands it was but a silly lie!" she prayed desperately.

Soon the looming walls of the Keep cut the wind again. Aided by Viv, Aiwendis pushed a heavy gate of the Library grounds open. At this gate, she and the King almost kissed ... Was this sunny warm morning only yesterday? She couldn't believe it. Obliterated by wind and darkness, the tender moment seemed a thousand years ago.

The dark ancient tower of Minas Aran loomed on their left; the wind sent spray from the fountain into their faces. The two women climbed a few steps leading to the front door.

"It may be locked!" cried Aiwendis to Viv, but found her words carried away on the wind. "If it is locked, be ready to use your barrette, Vivvie" repeated Aiwendis in mind speech.

But the door was not locked. Slightly surprised, Aiwendis surveyed the empty Entrance hall. There was nobody around to greet them. Khamûl seemed to be away, they couldn't feel his presence in his rooms upstairs. The door to the library stair stood ajar. That was unusual. Frowning, Aiwendis hurried upstairs to the Scriptorium, Viniglaen at her heels.

They didn't see Sapthân at once, though they felt someone's presence. The room was dark, the air heavy with the reek of mortal blood, sweat and sickness. In a moment, Aiwendis spotted a figure lying face-down on the floor by the wall, behind the librarian's table. Hearing Gor's mental warning, Viv quickly surveyed the entire Scriptorium, looking for hidden foes, but found none. They were alone with the wounded man.

"Who is it, Gordie?" asked Viv. "And what has happened to him?"

"It is the assistant librarian, Sapthân. He might be sick or wounded, I don't know yet" replied Aiwendis. She shook her head and added in thought speech "Time is short, Viv, hurry on, report to the Captain. We might still save that little skessa from her long deserved Doom."

Viv nodded and disappeared into the other doorway, leading to the Observatory stair.

Aiwendis turned the unconscious man onto his back. Running her hands over his body and limbs, feeling for the difference in temperature, she soon found a set of tiny red wounds on the palm of his right hand. The hand and forearm were swollen and hot to touch. If anything, it looked like poison.

Aiwendis never really liked the man, he was only one of an endless line of fawning mortals the Morgul Lord kept around him. They desired either wealth, or immortality, or secret knowledge beyond the measure of their kind. This one was no worse than the others, perhaps better than most. Aiwendis herself stopped to care about mortals, once she left their company entirely, so many centuries ago. But she knew that Sapthân was in her Lord's favor, so she had to help him.

Putting a cold hand on his burning forehead, she sang an incantation to ward off poison and strengthen the body. Soon Sapthân's heartbeat slowed and became more regular. He moaned some words, something about a dragon...then he opened his eyes and finally focussed on her face.

"Lady... Lady Aiwendis"

"Sapthân, what has happened to you?" she asked worriedly.

[Lotesse]

Viniglaen ascended the spiral of stairs to the observatory in a noiseless, gliding instant, and the Morgul Lord sensed her approach and opened the door just as she reached it.

[Udukhaturz]

“I... I do not know,� Sapthan murmured, and he found himself looking up into Lady Aiwendis’ face. “There was a man here... I am not sure of who he was... I am not even sure of what he said,� he stammered.

He felt embarrassed to be in such an awkward situation. The lady would surely think he had been drunk and had fallen and hit his head.

“I suppose I must have felt faint... Perhaps I have been working a little too much in the library. Why else would I have fallen? Here, let me get up.� He struggled to his feet. He felt his hand hurting brutally.

“I seem to have injured my hand in the fall.� He felt very foolish as she looked at him calmly, and he stood there staring like an oaf at his wounded hand. Finally, he smoothed his hands over his rumpled tunic and felt like a schoolboy in the presence of an adult.

“Do not be concerned about me,� he said, regaining his composure. “Now if you will excuse me, I must be about my work.� Sapthan bowed to her formally and made a hasty retreat away, wondering what really had happened to him. He must consult his books of esoteric knowledge to see if there was anything that would be of help.

[Serenoli]

You would do best to remember your place, Tolvadok the Third... the words rankled in Tol's mind. Yes, he had to remember his place. Too often, he had restrained his tongue and his hand when in the presence of Khamul, only because Khamul was his senior.

He seethed, and as usual, his emotions showed all over his face, in an unpleasant grimace, and Khamul, correctly interpreting his silence and expression, laughed jeeringly in triumph. It was a good day for him. The Captain had rebuked him somewhat, but on the other hand, he had got to put down Tolvadok, and soon, Skessa would be getting her due. Yes, it was turning out to be a lovely day.

The gale had driven most people off the streets, and Menetar was deserted and empty, unlike its usual wont.They sped up, anxious to reach Udu's house before Lile did. Idly, Tolvadok wondered if the present weather was annoying Lily... she never did like her hair messed up, especially during her important rendezvous.

On reaching Udu's house, Khamul pulled the bell-rope, and the door was answered by the faithful Ulfang.

"Where is your master?"

"He is busy at the moment-"

"Tell him I've come to see him, and I'm sure he'll be only too glad to busy himself with me." With that Khamul brusquely pushed past Ulfang, who had certainly intended to stop them at the door. As Tolvadok also followed Khamul in without a word, Ulfang resigned himself, and went to announce
the two to Udu.

A few mintues of uncomfortable silent waiting later, Ulfang came to lead them upstairs to a room, where they found Udu waiting for them. A lovely lady who had been reclining on the divan rose to greet them as they entered.

[Lotesse]

"My Captain," greeted Viniglaen, giving the Morgul Lord a slightly anxious, yet deferential quick curtsy. There was an amused little glint at the corner of the Chancellor's steady grey eyes; little Viv was the only one of the Nine who ever gave him the odd yet ladylike little curtsies. He was the only being toward which she showed such respect; the only being she would bow her head to. To Viv, the Captain was a father figure, yet always she was tongue-tied and eager to be perfect in his presence. He knew all this, of course, and always found it somewhat endearing, if through his legendary emotional ice he could be endeared of anything, or anyone.

"To what do I owe this surprise visit, young one?" he asked.

"I - Lady Gordis and I , we felt we must inform you right away of some strange occurances we have noticed tonight." began Viv. "Lady Gordis is still downstairs right now, though; she - we saw this man on the floor of the Scriptorium, he had fainted or something. She stopped to assist him. "

Vivvie pushed her hood off, and nervously held her hands in front of her, trying to keep from playing with her fingers, trying to stand perfect and tall, and trying to look composed.

"You want to inform me of a fainted man downstairs in my Scriptorium?" said the Captain.

"No, my Captain. That is, no - I mean no, not a fainted man, it's about Lilaenwen, and our comrade Udu, and the Man-King Valandil; odd things going on, sir. Odd things. I - "


Mercifully, just then, Gordis' footsteps could be heard approaching the Observatory.

[Gordis]

Minas Aran, after 8 PM, Wednesday

The Captain watched, outwardly impassive, how Viniglaen the Ninth stood in front of him. She tried to appear composed, tall and proud, but her diminutive height - the top of Viv's head hardly reached the Morgul Lord's breastbone - made her efforts rather humorous. The deep violet eyes looking up at him were not in the least funny, though, but profoundly troubled and intense.

"No, my Captain," continued Viniglaen, "that is, no - I mean no, not a fainted man, it's about Lilaenwen, and our comrade Udu, and the Man-King Valandil; odd things going on, sir. Odd things. I - "

"Are they all lying fainted in my Scriptorium?" smiled the Captain, trying to dispel the tension. He had to admit it didn't help much.

At this moment, Aiwendis's tall figure appeared alongside Viv. Putting a protective arm around the little one's shoulders, she replied quietly "We have found Sapthan lying alone in the Scriptorium, unconscious. Apparently he was poisoned by inoculation - there were angry punctures on his right hand's palm. The poison was not lethal, and Sapthan is out of danger now. He remembers nothing of what has happened. We have found nobody in the Scriptorium, or in the Library."

The Morgul Lord nodded. "I think I know what happened. I had a visitor, whom Sapthan would have never let in here, against my orders."

"Who was that?" asked Aiwendis, frowning.

"It doesn't matter now," replied the Morgul Lord icily. "Let Sapthan think it were Elvish spies, prowling around his cherished books. Continue. What is the matter with the King, Udu and Lilaenwen? "

Suddenly loosing her composure, Aiwendis hissed "The crazy fool Lilaenwen told the King that I was having an affair with Udu! I have never..." She stopped, when the Captain held his hand up, interrupting her.

"Spare me your explanations." Now they detected a trace of anger in the Captain's voice. "How did you learn of that?" He fixed the women with a penetrating stare.

Aiwendis looked at Viv, but saw that the little one was not forthcoming with more information. She sighed and continued. "Apparently Lilly bragged about it to our Vivvie herself. Isn't it so, Viv?"

Viv said reluctantly "She asked me to keep it secret. I wouldn't have told you, if it weren't so important. And I think Lilly is in danger now. She got a letter, a love letter, from the King, or so she said. He invited her to his palace for a love tryst. It just doesn't fit somehow. He was never taken with her, and it is unheard of for a king to act in such a way. The letter must be fake".

"Have you seen the letter?" asked the Morgul Lord evenly.

"No, I haven't, but surely Lilly couldn't invent all that. Or could she? But why?" Viv shook her head and looked up at the Captain with troubled eyes. The silver eyes that looked back at her were unreadable. Viv added "She left me at Gor's door, sent Buzukkumarz downtown and went to meet with the King."

"Where?"

"She went to his palace, apparently" sighed Viv. "It looks like a trap. What if the King divined her identity?"

The Morgul Lord remained silent for some time. When he spoke, his cold voice was utterly devoid of emotion. "It is not a trap. I know where she is. Don't worry about Lilaenwen anymore".

Bewildered, Aiwendis and Viniglaen stared into the Captain's face. Aiwendis was the first to recover. She dropped her hand from Viv's shoulders and bowed. "As you command, My Lord".

Composed now, Viv imitated the bow. She turned to leave, when the Captain stopped her. "It is nor all, little one, that troubles you. Give me an account of your mission with the mortal knight Raendil".

[Udukhaturz]

By the time Sapthan had reached his quarters, the pain in his hand was almost gone, but his mind had been left in a quandary.

He had fallen, he remembered that, but he could not remember tripping. He knew he never drank any wine when he was working in the library, so nothing like that could be the cause. He had felt perfectly well that day when he had begun his duties there, and he was of a strong constitution, little given to sicknesses.

He knew his right hand had been injured, and that it must have been because of the fall. But what could have caused those strange angry marks on his hand? The floor was smooth. There was nothing to account for such a nasty set of marks that looked like.... like what? Punctures! The idea was absurd. What could account for that?

He walked to his bookcase and took out a large volume, and after leafing through it, he found the section for which he was looking, “Poisoned Wounds.� He discounted serpents, scorpions, or any other creature as being the cause. There could be no beasts in the library such as that, not even a cat, so it must have been a... a... man! Someone had tried to kill him! Why? Who? Had some thief come to the library with the intention of stealing one of the rare books, and being found out, had overpowered him? It could not have been some petty thief... who could inflict such wounds? Was some mad man lurking about in the library?

He tossed a log into the weak fire that had almost burnt itself out and stirred up a nice blaze with the poker. He fetched a goblet of wine and sat down on the sofa in front of the fire. He should tell the chancellor about this, but what was there to tell him? The Chancellor’s daughter, the Lady Aiwendis, had seen him sprawled upon the floor unconscious. The Chancellor did not like to be disturbed, and even if Sapthan told him, no doubt the Chancellor would discount the whole matter. The Chancellor would say that Sapthan was imagining things and that his wound had merely been the result of the fall. Sapthan’s whole position at the library might be jeopardized if there were any thoughts that he was not stable.

He would hold his peace, but he would be very watchful and very suspicious. His assailant might come back.

[Lotesse]

She turned to leave, when the Captain stopped her. "It is nor all, little one, that troubles you. Give me an account of your mission with the mortal knight Raendil".

"We have fallen in love with one another, my Captain, and I have given him my virginity, and our hearts beat as one," answered Vivvie, without hesitation, and without fear.

"Viniglaen, you have no heart, you are a Black Rider, a Nazgul, and this man is only human. What lasting pleasure can you hope to gain from such a mortal being? Do not allow your emotions and personal needs to interfere with your work, Viniglaen."

"On the contrary, my Captain. If anything at all, our deep emotional connection has allowed greater ease and ability to progress with this mission," countered Viv. " I am honest with you, my Captain, with how I have allowed my heart and emotions to be affected by this Kingsman, and with all due respect, but you are wrong, my Lord. I DO have a heart, and it beats true and steady for those whom I come to love, and also for those toward whom I am forever loyal."

The Morgul Lord stood silently for a moment. Perhaps he was pleased with her reply to him, perhaps he was impressed with the courage she showed in respectfully asserting her position, perhaps nothing at all was going through his steel mind. At any rate, he seemed satisfied with her little speech for the time being, and dismissed her.

"I shall let you go, Viniglaen," he said, holding the door open for her, yet still blocking her way, and giving her a very serious look. "However, bear in mind what I have told you, and do not stray from your mission. Report back to me upon your progress two days from this hour. There must be viable progress, young one. Now go," he said, and let her leave the Observatory.

She inclined her head toward her Captain in a gesture of departure, then noiselessly and speedily left, swirling down the staircase in one uninterrupted motion, seeming like a black shadow-ghost, to any eye that could have caught her movement.

[Udukhaturz]

Wednesday, 6:30 PM
Red Salon, Triangular House

“Right this way, my lords,� Ulfang said as he held the door open for Khamul and Tolvadok. “The master is awaiting you.�

The dark Easterling followed the Nazgul into the room, and after closing the door behind him, he took a position beside the door.

“My lords,� Udu said, rising to his feet at the table, “greetings.The sultry dark-haired woman who stood by his side started to kneel. “No, Tatyana, we are in the West! The Eastern customs are not kept here. Remember to curtsy.� She looked at him uncertainly and dropped a curtsy to the two visitors.

“Tatyana, I want you to meet Lords Galadannun and Tolvadok.�

“I am very happy to meet you both,� she said pleasantly.

“This is Tatyana... a wife.�

The two Nazgul nodded to her.

Khamul and Tolvadok looked around the room, suspiciously, Udu thought. “You can speak around her,� Udu said.

“A woman?� Khamul scoffed. “Send her away!�

Tolvadok looked uncomfortable.

“She can be trusted, and much depends upon her aid,� Udu defended.

Khamul considered what Udu had said and reluctantly agreed. “Woman, you will be quiet and repeat nothing that is said here tonight!�

“Yes, yes, Master,� she said nervously as she retreated to the wine cabinet.

“Please be seated,� Udu said, “and Tatyana, bring us brandy.�

After the three Nazgul were seated at the table, Tatyana fetched them all a goblet of brandy and then sat down beside Maethor.

“I was a bit surprised to see Tolvadok here, since he was not part of our original planning,� Udu smiled as he reached for his goblet of wine.

“The Captain said I should go and help the two of you if necessary,� Tolvadok explained, “but I would like to avoid any unpleasantries if possible.

“There are always unpleasantries in this business,� Khamul said, his eyes taking on a slight gleam.

“It is well to know that our activities meet the Captain’s approval.� Udu smiled as he swirled the wine around in his mouth. “I rather think that the evening could prove quite pleasant indeed. It will be an opportunity to see that Lilaenwen receives a proper lesson.�

“What are you going to do to her?� asked Tolvadok.

“I am going to rely upon Khamul’s expertise here, that is, as soon as the lady is snugly ensconced in the ‘guest chamber.’ I doubt that Lilaenwen will enjoy her stay too much, though. Instead of a soft feather mattress, she can sleep on a reed mat,� he chuckled.

“Are you sure the cell is strong enough to hold her?� Khamul asked dubiously.

“Only a balrog could ever hope to escape,� he said proudly. “But with the additional powerful spells from the two of you, the cell can be made even stronger, if that is possible.�

Tolvadok looked uncertain. “The lady has a reputation for having a very loud, high-pitched scream. How could we ever hide that?�

“That should be relatively simple, Lord Tolvadok. She will be given a drugged draught of wine by Tatyana. One should do it, and she will be sleeping like an innocent babe. Then one of my men will light a lamp in an upstairs window, signaling to us that the lady is slumbering peacefully. Then it is simply a matter of picking her up, carrying her to the dungeon, locking her inside and warding it with more spells. I hope she does scream; in fact I encourage it. Her screams will reverberate in her own mind... But I caution both of you... we cannot wait inside my hall, for she will sense our presence.�

“I have finished my brandy,� said Khamul. “I am taking charge here!�

Udu looked surprised. “But my lord, this plan is basically mine!�

“Silence! Let us withdraw to the darkness outside and get far enough where the clever little Lilaenwen cannot sense us.�

“As you will, my lord,� said Udu, somewhat crestfallen.

Udu kissed a frightened Tatyana as Khamul scowled and Tolvadok looked uncertain. Then the three Nazgul filed out of the house and into the night.

[Rían]

Wednesday night/Thursday morning,
Outside of Tharbad

The three elven riders rode quietly through the night at a gentle walk, accomodating Tyaron's injuries. Their bright eyes gleamed in the starlight, and their fair elven voices sometimes rose in song to hail the rising of a favorite star. But more often than not they were silent, reveling in the starlight and the open air, and the communion with their horses, and the warmth of old friendships that do not need spoken words. They rode abreast, with RÃ*an in the middle and her sometimes over-protective brother and friend on either side of her.

As the sun started to rise, Alagos turned to his sister. "Come now, RÃ*an - tell us more about your travels, and of the things that happened in those long years that we were apart. I feel that I don't know a big part of who you are yet, and I don't like that feeling!"

As they rode on through the soft dawn light, RÃ*an revisited the years since the Fall of Gondolin, picking and choosing stories, describing people she had met, places she had been, and the things that had shaped who she was now. The men listened quietly, with only an occasional question breaking her narrative as they sought to catch up with the soul inside the body that they had been reunited with only a few days ago. Finding a person's body is one thing; discovering their soul is quite another. But love finds a way, and there was a lot of love between the three of them.

As the day drew on, RÃ*an finally stopped. "I think I've talked enough for now," she said. "I'd like to hear some of your stories, too, and I think Tyaron has had enough riding for now." Alagos agreed; he had been keeping an eye on his friend, and noticed the clenched jaw and careful breathing that were the signs of pain. "Good idea - I was just going to suggest that, and this looks like a great place to stop," he observed.

They set up Tyaron with his back against a warm rock and many threats to stay still while they got some food prepared. They ate in companionable silence, enjoying the sounds of the world around them. After a brief rest, Alagos proposed a swim in the slow-flowing river alongside their bivouac.

"You too, Tyaron - I think the flowing water will do those bites some good," said Alagos, as he and his sister stripped down to their elven skivvies. Tyaron assented and stripped down, too. Alagos started to examine the healing wounds, but Tyaron laughed and stopped him. "You're such an old clucking hen of a woman, Alagos! I'm perfectly fine! Now go throw your sister in - I think I can manage to get to the river on my own steam."

"You ingrate, I should have just let you die, for all the thanks I get!" shot back Alagos. RÃ*an took off running with her brother in hot pursuit, as Tyaron followed more slowly, the smile lingering on his face.

The three of them stayed in the cool water for a long time, Alagos and RÃ*an laughing, splashing and dunking each other, and Tyaron finding a spot where he could lean on a rock and let the water flow gently past his wounds, cooling off the hot, angry bites.

[Lady Marion Magdalena]

Thursday morning, still on the walls, still waiting...

Thinking about waiting had led to remembering. Mahtaliel started near the beginning, and remembered her father.

The last time Mahta had spoken to Atar was just before the Third Battle, the one everyone else called 'Glorious'.

He had been telling her about his grandfather, the great smith, Mahtan, whom she would never meet. He hadn't wanted Atar to leave, and hadn't been able to stop him.

'Did he know it was so dangerous?' She had asked.

Atar had shaken his head, looked distant into the forge fire, 'Maybe.' He had said.

Later she had asked her oldest cousin, after losing to him while practicing the sword, again. (It got tiresome, losing all the time, but there was no one better able to use the sword left-handed, and he assured her she was getting better, even if it didn't feel like it.) He had said, 'Perhaps.'

'That isn't an answer,' she had told him.

'It isn't supposed to be,' he had said, 'Work on your guard now. I want to see it improved when we return.'

'Where are you going?'

'To battle.'

Amme hadn't wanted Atar to fight, said there were plenty of soldiers, never enough smiths, why put himself and his skill in danger? She hadn't been able to stop him.

Later, after the body was burnt, because we believed cremation to be more dignified, they said he had died in the 'Glorious' Battle. Except for Maedhros, who always remembered to call it the Third Battle only, at least when she and Amme could hear.

That was when she had become Mahtaliel. Amme had called her by the other name and Mahtaliel had corrected her.
'Perhaps you'll have more luck than he or I did.' Was all Amme had said. Amme had understood, she hadn't wanted Atar to leave either. But she followed him both times.

She told Maedhros her new name while they watched the pyre turn to ashes.

He had given her a surname to go with it. She was living up to that name now.

[CrazySquirrel]

University, 6.30-7 PM Wednesday.

After parting ways with Viv and Buz, Lilly stood silent and unmoving in the doorway of the university palace, expanding her senses outwards, feeling for danger, especially for signs of the other nazgul. Least of all she wanted to run into Tolvadok, or Buz, for that matter, on her way to the triangular house. She felt the presence of Viv and Gor upstairs in the palace, she sensed the strong aura of the Morgul Lord to the south, somewhere high above the ground. She hasn't found a trace of Tol, Udu or Khamul.

Lilly laughed softly and concentrated on Buz. She sensed him turn right beyond the corner of the palace and make his way across the University grounds to the South-West gate. When he was firmly out of reach, Lilly slipped quietly out of the deep shadow of the doorway and glided through Gor's garden to the East exit of the palace grounds, away from Buz and the Captain. At Bar Amrun she stopped to think again. Walking outside along the University walls would bring her to Augon Vin, and the Orrodel mansion, and there she was bound to meet the angry Tolvadok.

So, turning sharply North, Lilly slipped like a shadow past the groundkeeper's cottage and followed a small path between the lower palace wall and the higher outer wall of the fortress. Soon she saw the gardener's hut with spades and other tools arranged neatly outside, then the low, mossy Commerce building, the forge, the little house where the accursed Elf professor lived and, finally, there was the North Gate looming before her.

Lilly came to know the layout of the University quite well, when, the day before, she spent three hours looking for the sleeping King in all the corners and recesses of the campus. Lilly smirked contentedly: her efforts came to fruition so very soon. No mortal had ever looked at her, much less touched her, without ardent desire kindled in him. The king proved to be no tougher than the others!

Lilly's heart sang. In less than an hour Val would be hers. Of course, at this point he didn't think of marriage, but she would make him reconsider. Oh, that she would! Some tears, some sobs, .. "What have you done?"... "I never thought you would go so far!"... talk about honour, suicide... and there he would be, bound forever to her, crown, country and all. Lilly was confident in her powers, she was an expert in such things, the best one the Dark Lord ever had.

Concealed in the shadow of the Gate, Lilly checked the area in front of her. No one. Even the Captain's aura had grown faint from distance. Tolvadok was probably looking for her around Orrodel. She had outsmarted him! Laughing happily, Lilly dashed across the Augon Galen towards the triangular house. There were lights in its many windows, and shadows moved behind the curtains. But all she sensed were only a few mortals, no danger to her. Stopping in front of the door, Lilly smoothed her hair, messed up by the wind, bit her rosy lips to make them even redder, and knocked.

[Udukhaturz]

Lilaenwen’s knock on the front door of the triangular house on Menetar Street was answered by a smiling tawny-skinned man. Lilly gave him one of her famous radiant smiles. “I am Varno the butler,� Ulfang said, lying about his name, “and I am greatly pleased to meet you. Come in out of the chill. Here, let me take your cloak,� he said as he slipped the garment off her shoulders. “Right this way,� he said as he ushered her to the Red Salon. Lilly headed right for the sofa in front of the fireplace.

“What an efficient servant he is,� she thought with admiration.

“I am sorry,� the butler said, “but there is no fire. A problem has developed with the damper, and until that is repaired, the smoke is so intense that a fire cannot be built. There is a thick fur on the sofa, though, that should keep you quite warm.�

Lilly was impressed with the stately opulence of the room. “I never knew Valandil to have such superb taste,� she was surprised. “I would not have suspected he went in for such hedonistic style. I wonder where the paintings are? He must have them around someplace... perhaps in the master bedroom,� she thought deliciously. All the paintings in the salon, though, were of hunting scenes or landscapes. Then she reflected, “Of course, how silly of me! The letter he sent me said that this is the house of one of his friends who loaned the use of it to him for the evening. Perhaps I should meet the owner...�

“A drink, my lady, while you wait for the king?� Varno asked, looking to Tatyana, who stood waiting near the wind cabinet.

“Yes, please,� Lilaenwen replied, pulling the thick, rich fur about her lap.

“Ah, pardon my oversight. This is Tatyana, the housekeeper.�

“I am very pleased to meet you,� the dark-eyed woman said in an accented voice as she prepared the wine.

“Very unfortunate story,� he said, busying about, trying to distract Lilaenwen as he fluffed up a cushion behind her back.

“What is an unfortunate story?� Lilaenwen asked.

“Tatyana,� he said woefully. “She is from the East, dreadful place! All her family was killed in a raid, and she fled for her life to the West. The king, generous and kind soul that he is, heard of her plight and saw to it that she had work and employment with his friend and his wife.�

Soon Tatyana had readied the drugged draught and returned to Lilaenwen, extending her the tray with the goblet. “I hope it is to the lady’s taste,� she smiled.

[Earniel]

Wednesday
University grounds

The was a hint of sea in the air that gladdened Eärniel’s heart, but at the same time there was also an undertone in it that unsettled her and that she couldn’t quite place. It was strange to have such a steady wind from the coast at this time, But Eärniel gave it little thought. Smelling the sea again was enough to keep her happy instead of asking questions, even from realising that the wind had never smelt so much of the sea before. With some sympathy she thought of Faénn and the other gulls and how they would have a tough time getting back to sea smoothly.

But wait, what was that sound? It sounded like a frog, and yet not. Or rather, Eärniel thought, it sounded like someone mimicking a frog, for frogs effectively croaked and never just said: “Croak.� That was usually an easy way to distinguish between the two. The noise of splashing water accompanied the croaking. Curious.

Eärniel risked a careful peek around the corner and was treated to an unusual sight: Jas Fernik was sitting in the fountain, up to his neck under water, puffing his cheeks while making croaking noises.

Eärniel stared.

Jas croaked.

Well, that explains where the university of Tharbad got that party-loving reputation, Eärniel thought. They never quite describe it like this in their brochure. RÃ*an will so not believe me when I tell her this.

“Isn’t the water a little cold for eh… bathing this time of the year, sir?� was all Eärniel could think of to say as she cautiously approached the fountain. Jas stopped croaking and turned his head towards her. He briefly tried to come to terms that his eyes strangely were at the front of his head instead -like on any good frog- at both sides of it. It resulted in a few shifty and cross-eyed looks before he finally gave up and hid under water, below the basin border so he couldn’t see the Elf anymore. Pink bipedal creatures were usually bad news for frogs anyway.

Eärniel stopped besides the fountain basin and looked in, her arm leaning on the stone. “Not that I don’t admire your sense for authenticity, sir,� she said, somewhat amused, “but I suppose I might inform you of the fact that, while frogs can approximately hold their breath for 9 minutes, humans normally do not.�

Jas’ face was indeed turning slightly red underwater. But since the threat hadn’t gone yet, Jas stayed firmly under water, shooting frightened looks up to the Elf above him.

Eärniel pinched the bridge of her nose in exasperation. “Oh, Uinen’s veils,� she sighed, “why do I always have to come across the nut jobs?�

Clearly this was somebody’s idea of a joke, surprisingly though, it did not appear to be one of Jas’s. There was a vague sort of look in his eyes that Eärniel reckoned was something else then the usual drunken fit. Snapping him out of it, on the other hand, might not be easy.

She counted the seconds.

Within the minute Jas resurfaced with much splashing and gasping. Eärniel’s hand shot out and hit him firmly on the back of his head. For a moment Jas’s eyes went really cross-eyed and then merely looked confused.

“Nibbit?� Eärniel suggested as a test.

“Eh, what?� Jas asked, going from mere confusion to complete bewilderment when he realised he was sitting fully clothed in a fountain. Furthermore, the water was kind of nippy and his head hurt somewhat, but not from drinking too much. Yet the strangest things was that he couldn’t quite say where this sudden dislike for herons had come from.

“Ah, that sounds more like it,� the Elf replied. "And here I thought I had seen everything. But a professor pretending to be a frog is definitely unusual by anyone's account."

[CrazySquirrel]

The triangular house, 7.30-9 PM, Wednesday

Lilly accepted the proffered goblet, downed it in one gulp and smiled appreciatively.

"Wonderful wine! Prepare me another goblet, will you?"

The Khandian maid stood somewhat bewildered, looking back at her, as if she were waiting for something to happen.

"Those barbarians!" muttered Lilly. She lowered her lips to the girl's delicate ear and yelled in the Khandian tongue "More wine, I said!!!"

The dark beauty jumped and hurried to obey. Lilly nodded proudly. She had picked a lot of languages during her long existence, and the Khandian Speech was one of the main in the East. Khand was a wondrous place... and its art! Oh, its art!

Lilly surveyed again the paintings on the walls. They were certainly better than the dull Elven and Numenorean classic paintings where immaculately dressed ladies and gentlemen stood forever frozen in noble poses. But there should be more...much more...

She turned to the approaching maid, took another goblet and sipped from it. The wine was strong, flavored with some pleasing herbal essences.

"What do you add to the wine?" asked Lilaenwen. The maid's tawny face suddenly turned white. Lilly frowned. The fool failed to understand her again, though she was sure she spoke Khandian this time. Perhaps it was her bad pronunciation...

Stepping around the immobile maid, and pushing aside Varno, who happened to block her way, she reached the serving table. There was a small crystal vial with an incomprehensible label standing by the big chalice of warmed wine. Lilly uncorked the vial and sniffed the rich herbal scent. Delicious! She poured the contents into her glass and added some more wine.

"Now, show me the pictures! The paintings, I mean, the REAL Khandian paintings! Where do you keep them?" Both the maid and the butler, Varno, looked shaken. "They must be in the master bedroom. Lead me there!"

The frightened maid managed to stutter: "The master, he has not allowed you to go there...I mean, the King, he is not yet.."

Lilly gave her one of her famous withering looks and proceeded to the door in search of the bedroom. "The King is late! He made me wait for an hour already! I want to see the bedroom!" she hissed over her shoulder as the khandian beauty and Varno followed forlornly the readhead intruder into the bedroom.

The paintings were there... in all their glory. Giggling happily, and licking her lips, Lilly made a tour of the chamber admiring the details and commenting on them in her chiming silver voice.

Varno and Tatyana looked at her silently, now resigned and prepared for all the eventualities. Two hours have gone by; the goblet and the vial were empty, and the enigmatic readhead was still awake.

At last, just before nine, finally tired, Lilly made herself comfortable in the middle of the large four-poster bed, covered with rich furs. She stretched there like a big lazy cat, yawned and asked drowsily "Ah... your master... What is his name? Where is he?"

She didn't hear the answer, as her head dropped onto the coverlet and she was asleep.



***

Little did Lilly know, that at this very moment, the master of the house, Udukhaturz the Seventh, stood outside freezing with his comrades in the blowing gale. The corner between two houses where they were concealed provided little shelter, and, after an hour of waiting, Udu's and Khamul's teeth started to chatter audibly.

Tolvadok the Northerner, more resistant to cold, stood in the middle of the street waiting impatiently for the signal lamp to be lighted. The tension between the three was growing, and almost reached the breaking point when a cheerful feminine voice cried:

"Girithron, what a surprise! I am so glad to see you again! But what are you doing here in this wind?"

"Oh, Yerri," Tolvadok sounded at a loss. To remain undetected, Udu and Khamul retreated further into the shadows

A small figure ran to Tolvadok, hugged him and grabbed his hands.

"My poor friend, your hands are frozen! Come with me to the Herring! I shall find you something hot to eat and a cup of warm wine!"

[Rían]

Thursday, somewhere in the
countryside outside of Tharbad


"I give up! I give up!" laughed RÃ*an, gasping for breath. "Everything you said is true - you are the most wonderful brother in the whole entire world, and every time we've disagreed, you have been right and I've been wrong!" she said in a mock-submissive tone, showing the fingers crossed behind her back to Tyaron. "Now stop dunking me!"

"Alright, alright," said Alagos in a superior tone. "I'm only doing this for your own good, you know," he said lazily, leaning back on a rock and letting the river float his legs. "It's good for you to know the truth!"

Tyaron, shooting up hand-fountains in the river water, groaned and rolled his eyes. Alagos and RÃ*an swam over to him, and a fierce hand-fountain competition followed, with RÃ*an ending up the clear winner. "See, brute force isn't everything," she said, sticking out her tongue at them. "Intelligence, style and ingenuity count, too!"

"Why did you win, then?" goaded her brother, and went back to basking on his rock, happily watching the water flow thorough his toes. He felt inexplicably lighthearted and carefree - he still couldn't believe his success at getting his unpredictable sister and wounded friend out of town so quickly. This was definitely the right thing to do.

"Tyaron, you still have blood in your hair," said RÃ*an, examining his wet hair. "Why don't you undo it and wash it all out, then Alagos or I can braid it back up for you again."

"OK," said Tyaron, and started unbraiding the keep-my-hair-out-of-my-face plaits at the side of his head.

"Oh, pleeeeeaaase let me braid your hair, Tyaron, I just looooove to braid hair!" came a falsetto voice from the basking figure on the rock. RÃ*an schlooped up a handful of river mud and tossed it Alagos's general direction.

"Nah, you take too long! I'll have RÃ*an do it!" teased Tyaron, and disappeared under the water, rinsing the remaining blood out of his hair.

He came up and bent his dark head towards RÃ*an, standing a little closer to her than perhaps was strictly necessary. "Did I get it all?" he asked.

"Not quite," she answered. "Get your hair back in the water, and I'll get it the rest out."

Tyaron obeyed, and she bent over him, her fingers searching through his hair, removing all traces of the blood.

A few moments later, the three elves were lying on the riverbank in the sun-warmed grass, their dark hair strewn out behind them, drying in the sun. Alagos was happily making patterns against the sky with his long fingers, framing the ever-changing cloud shapes as they moved lazily across the sky. He couldn't remember the last time he had been this light-hearted. RÃ*an was trying to decide how much she could get away with when braiding Tyaron's hair - maybe he'd even fall asleep, and she could get in one of her more intricate patterns. Tyaron was storing up memories of RÃ*an and Alagos laughing and playing in the river, for he was planning on leaving them very soon.

[Serenoli]

"And here I thought I had seen everything. But a professor pretending to be a frog is definitely unusual by anyone's account."

He focused his eyes on the Elf maid before him. Hmmm, she was pretty. And smiling, and friendly-looking. Suddenly, Jas was infused with the spirit of friendliness that assails drunken men at midnight, and makes them wish to tell the closest secrets of their lives to anyone, stranger or friend, as long as the person is on the same planet, and within reasonably close hearing range.

"Unusual, yes. But, surely not as unusual as someone who was actually turned into a frog?" He mistook the bemused look on her face as disbelief, and went on, "But, its true! I was turned into a frog, by this nasty man, who kept popping up all over the place, and calling me 'Professor'! Of all silly things!" He shuddered at the memory, and then struggled out of the fountain, shaking and shivering all over. Drippping with water, and as Eärniel supposed, absolutely drunk, Jas made the funniest spectacle, and she shook with suppressed laughter. She tried to memorise every detail; it would make a great story later.

"But, um, Professor... you are a Professor!" she protested.

"Nonsense! I have never professed anything in my life! Do be sensible! And, now, if you're agreeable, I'm starving, and would like some breakfast. I have the most amazing story to tell, and you probably won't believe me..." For a few moments, this possible obstacle worried him, and then his face cleared, and he declared cheerily, "Although, since you're only my imagination, maybe I can imagine you'll believe it, and then I can imagine you thinking up the solution to how I can wake up, and then everything will be fine! Right, lets go, then!"

He began toddling off, while Eärniel stared at him, bewilderment, and an irrepressible desire to laugh, being the chief emotions battling within her.

"Go? But where?"

He didn't reply, but went on for a few moments only, and then, with an embarrassed look on his face, he came back.

"Actually, thats a very moot point, where are we going?- because, I don't really know... or remember the way. Maybe... how about you lead the way?"

[Rían]

Thursday, somewhere in the
countryside outside of Tharbad

RÃ*an sat up and stretched. "I think I fell asleep," she said in a surprised but pleased voice. "And I didn't have any bad dreams this time, either!"

"I'm glad to hear that!" said Alagos, as the men sat up and stretched, too.

"OK, now you two stay right there - I'll be right back with my combs, and Alagos, you can tell your story now - I want to hear everything, and Tyaron needs something to keep him awake! - or at least you can get a good start on telling me everything! - you probably can't do it all today," RÃ*an chatted away while rummaging through the bags and getting her combs, and finding some of Tyaron's hair insignias in his bags (since it had been a high feast day when Gondolin fell, the men had been wearing all of their insignias, so the survivors still had these mementos of their beloved city).

She settled down next to Tyaron, who was sitting cross-legged, gazing at the river, and started combing his hair. Alagos sat up tall, also cross-legged, and started to relate his and Tyaron's adventures.

RÃ*an had never been this close to Tyaron in his swimming skivvies, at least since she had started seeing him as a man (as a child, he had often taken her swimming - she loved to be thrown into the water). "I see what the women were saying now!" she thought to herself, as she surreptitiously admired him. Tyaron, for his part, was completely relaxed, and was allowing himself to thoroughly enjoy RÃ*an's touch on his skin - her hands in his hair, her dark, silky hair on his bare arms and back as she leaned over him and started the braiding. All thoughts of his not being worthy to ever touch her again were gone - he was going to thoroughly enjoy these last few days together with her, and then take his leave - she need never know how he had kissed another woman - a stranger, even - while he was bound by his word to be courting her. He would leave them, and she would keep her high opinion of him, never knowing what he had done. It was so important to him that she think well of him.

He closed his eyes, enjoying the feel of her silky hair brushing across his bare skin. Alagos continued with the story. Alagos spoke well - the pictures rose in Tyaron's mind, and in RÃ*an's, too, judging by her reactions. Tyaron fell into a semi-trance as he listened, then came to with a jerk.

"... and the orcs were coming in so thick and fast that Tyaron never even had a chance to clear them off his sword before the next one was on him - there he was, swinging his sword in the air with two orcs impaled on it, going after a third ..."

Tyaron opened his eyes and looked over at Alagos, who was staring at him with a wicked grin on his face. "Just seeing if you were paying attention, brother!" he said. "It looks like my storytelling was putting you to sleep!"

"I don't know what you've been drinking, besides river-water, but whatever it is, you've had enough!" said RÃ*an with a smile. "Now, please, continue with the real story! And don't make me laugh again, or I'll mess up his hair and have to start over! You wouldn't want that, now, would you?" she teased with a laugh, leaning over Tyaron's shoulders to look directly into his face.

"On this day, I don't think I'd mind even that!" he answered softly. "Maybe it IS the river-water, but I haven't felt this happy in a long time. You two are like family to me, and I love being around both of you!"

RÃ*an wasn't sure if she was pleased or not at being apparently demoted from lover-elect to family all of a sudden.

"Anyway," Alagos continued, "it was then that King Turgon told us that Tyaron reminded him so strongly of his beloved cousin, Aegnor: Aikanár, the Sharp-flame."

At that memory, Tyaron smiled, then remembered how Aegnor had passionately loved a human woman but did not marry her. "It looks like we will resemble each other in more ways than one," he mused, and then said out loud, "I'd like to go out the way he did - fighting..."

"I hope you don't, at least not for a long time," said RÃ*an softly, gently brushing his cheek with her fingers. Tyaron clenched his jaw and said nothing. Alagos, watching them, wondered anew what had happened on that trip of Tyaron's, and then resumed his story.

[Gordis]

Observatory, Wednesday night

When Viniglaen's light steps died on the stair below, Aiwendis stood irresolute whether to follow Viv, or to ask permission to stay on the roof with the Captain. The Morgul Lord, however, closed the turret door behind Viv and bolted it.

"Go to the Observatory, Gordie, you look chilled to the bones," he said not unkindly. "Pour us some wine, and wait for me there. I still have a spell to weave. Damn, the wind tries to whirl again."

Aiwendis nodded absently, and entered the Observatory. The old abandoned building was repaired and re-furnished three years ago, when the Chancellor came to Tharbad. Now it was cosy and comfortable, with a wide Khandian divan, strewn with multicoloured silk pillows, a low lacquered table, and a number of matching cabinets attached to the walls. Aiwendis personally took care that the cabinets were well stocked with a nice selection of wines, dried fruit and sweetmeats. Oftentimes, when the Chancellor worked on the star-charts or on weather-spells, he remained in the building for days and nights.

Opening a painted chest by the far wall, Aiwendis took out a fur blanket and wrapped it around herself. She felt cold indeed, but not from the chilly wind. It was the Captain's decision to abandon Lilly to her miserable fate that froze Aiwendis's heart and bones. Through the long years in the Dark Tower, she had become accustomed to look to the Captain for protection. She knew, the others did as well. Many of the nazgul had been cruelly punished before, but it was by the Master's own orders, not their Captain's. It was a comfort to know that the Captain had spoken for them, even if it had been to no avail. How could he be so cruel now?

She remembered the day when she saw him for the first time, her first day in the Dark Tower, over a thousand years ago. Weakened she was then and fading, her life force drained by the accursed Ring. When her weary legs brought her to Mordor, following her Ring's bidding, she could hardly stand unaided. Leering orcs surrounded her at the gates of Barad Dur, and she prepared for the final blow, welcoming the Death which was eluding her for so long. But the blow never came. Instead, the ugly monsters bowed, in awe of the shining Ring hanging on a chain on her chest. Becoming fearful and deferential, they led her to the Great Hall, to meet the Master.

The Great hall of Barad Dur was bigger than any she had seen before. Lined by shining obsidian columns and paved by precious mosaics, it stretched endlessly on and on, the domed ceiling lost in shadows high above. While she walked to the dark throne, her tiny human figure was reflected endlessly from one polished surface to another, making her loose all sense of reality.

Her mortal vision had become blurred and distorted by that time, so she was surprised to see the two figures waiting for her clearly. The golden figure was seated on the dark throne, and another, silver- and-black one, was standing by it. Both faces seemed familiar to her, but yet unlike.

The Lord on the throne looked like the golden haired Elf-healer, who had given her the Ring so many years ago. His beauty was there, but his kindness and humility were gone. The burning yellow eyes looking back at her were merciless and angry, the perfect mouth distorted by a cruel grin.

The sight of the other one made her heart stop, for his features were forever burnt in her heart. She thought she recognised him: his elven-fair face, the proud set of his shoulders. And tall he was, taller than any other man she had ever met, the King of Men, who had once been her betrothed.

"Telemmaitë..." She tried to utter his name, but no sound passed her parched lips.

There was no recognition in the cold silver eyes surrounded by dark shadows. This man was not the one she had loved! She noticed a gleaming silver crown set upon his dark locks, and the deadly paleness of his face. She stopped, gasping for breath.

"Aiwendis the Eight!" boomed the great voice from the throne. "Come and bow to thy Master".

She advanced on unsteady feet and bowed from her waist as she would to a King. But she soon learned that it was not the way of Mordor. An invisible force threw her down on her now bleeding knees and pressed her face to the stone floor.

"Long have we awaited thee," hissed the voice. "Why hast thou not given thy Ring to thy betrothed as I bid thee?"

She was too weak to answer. And what could she say? The Golden deceiver should have known better than to give her the Ring - once she put it on, she couldn't part with it. She lay on her face, listening to the conversation that decided her fate.

"Now, what shall I do with this worthless female, who came here instead of the chosen one? Of what use can she be to Me?" continued the poisonous voice. "I should throw her frail body to the vargs to feed upon, and let her shrivelled soul wander forever in shadows, homeless and lost! What sayest thou, My trusted Captain?"

"My Master, she came here unbidden, but she is not worse than the other one before her, Lilaenwen the half-breed. This one is of the royal blood and may prove useful. Send another ring to the King Telemmaitë, and he will accept it gladly, for great is his love for Moria silver and the trinkets of gold."

"There is a use for every slave." mused the Dark Lord. "I will do as thou sayest, Morgul the First, but there is now only one Ring left. Make sure thy great-grandson gets it.... Now take her away from My sight!"

And then a cold hand was extended to her, and she gripped it, and followed the silver King out of the hall and beyond. Since that day, she followed him forever...

[Earniel]

Wednesday
University grounds

“Lead the way? Me? Surely no man in his sane mind would follow a figment of his imagination? Why, I could lead you into the swamp for all you know.� Eärniel said with a smile.

Jas looked worried for a moment. “Oh yes. There’s that,� he said but then suddenly brightened up. “Ah, but there are Elves in the swamp, I’ve heard. Can’t be too bad.�

“I take it you haven’t heard everything about them, then� was the reply, followed by a short chuckle, which somehow worried Jas a little more.

“Oh well,� Eärniel continued, “your apartment can’t be far, in any case. We’re right next to the professors’ lodgings. I doubt you could have… eh… jumped far.�

“But I’ve told you, I’ve never been a professor in my life! It’s just not me. So there is no reason why I should have a professor’s apartment. No really, I don’t know where you get those highly improbable ideas from,� Jas protested.

Eärniel smiled, it was rather hard not to. “Just humour the imaginary figment for a while then.�

She had to admit she was intrigued. Jas certainly acted like he was drunk, but still being drunk after sitting in a cold bath for what would have been hours was rather unlikely. Eärniel didn’t know Jas Fernik apart from having seen him at the reception and having heard students tell stories about his lessons. Surely the professor of wine-tasting knew how to handle a drink, or two, or a dozen.

And she wanted to hear more about this ‘nasty man’ that kept popping up everywhere and turning people into frogs. Since she knew the frog-population in Nîn-In-Eilph hadn’t risen perceptively the last few weeks, she suspected it wasn’t quite like Jas had thought it was. Still, she intended to find out.

The door to the professors’ building was closed but unlocked. Eärniel and Jas went in.

“Does anything look familiar?� she asked.

Jas looked around, slightly confused. “In a way,� he said finally. “The higher-from-the-ground sort of way…�

“Well, that establishes you passed this way in your… other state. Now we need to find the right apartment.�

Finding Jas’ rooms wasn't that hard to find, they were the only ones with an unlocked door and a slightly disorganised content. Several empty bottles were a clear indication too.

[Udukhaturz]

Outside the triangular house, 8:45 - 9:00, Wednesday night

“Seven!� Khamul’s words in thought speech were irritated. “Your much touted sleeping draught does not seem to have worked. Where is the signal light!�

“The draught does not seem to be taking affect as quickly as I had thought,� Maethor replied. “Soon, soon...�

“Poor plans often go awry!�

“The plan was a good one, but perhaps Lilaenwen is stronger than I had surmised,� he replied.

“Then hope that it will be quickly! I do not intend to stand out here all night in this chill wind!�

“Give it a while longer,� the Seventh replied, looking up at the window across the street. “Look there!� he exclaimed. “The lamp has been lit!�

[Serenoli]

For a moment, Tolvadok stood in indecision. The signal had just been given, and the three cold Nazgul had just been entering Udu's house, when Yerri appeared, and forced Udu and Khamul to hide.

"My poor friend, your hands are frozen! Come with me to the Herring! I shall find you something hot to eat and a cup of warm wine!"

She was wrapped up against the wind, but the small round face that looked out from beneath her scarf was pink and smiling. Despite himself, and knowing the hidden two were watching, Tolvadok returned her smile. He wanted very much to go with her, and after the cold wait, the offer to go to the Herring was very tempting. But, then, he had his orders, and he couldn't very well abandon Lily.

The decision taken, he put his hands in hers, and smiling down at her, he replied, "Yerri, it is very kind of you, but I have to see a man who lives here," he indicated the triangular house, "about some business, and he has promised me dinner."

At once she pouted, in such a delightful way, that Tolvadok was hard-put not to laugh.

"Don't worry about me, and tomorrow when I can get off my duties, I'll come to the Red Herring, and we can see about the wine and food. Agreed?" This last he said almost in a whisper; he didn't intend Udu and Khamul to hear. Already he could hear Khamul's jeering laugh in his head... he knew how much Khamul would tease him about his 'little friend' later.

"Oh, all right. But you had better come." And with that, she reached up, and gave him a shy kiss on his cheek, and then, walked away. His face burning, Tolvadok turned back to the house, and found Khamul's face split in the widest and ugliest grin it had worn for years. Ignoring it as best as he could, he walked up to Udu's house, and went in, followed by the others.

[Telcontar_Dunedain]

Khamûl grinned.
"Who was that?" he jeered through thought speech.
"What now?" said Tol, turning to Udu and ignoring Khamûl.
"Now the fun begins," replied Udu, a smile spreading across his face. "I shall go and prepare the equipment. Lily should wake within in about ten minutes, this should give me time to prepare and have her on the equipment before she wakes."
"Ten minutes you say? So far your potion has not worked out as you may have wished. Tolvadok, you shall go and help Udu. I shall wait with Lily," said Khamûl with an air of authority.
"As you wish Lord Khamûl," said Tol, his face grimacing as he spoke those words.

----------------------------

Five minutes had passed with no sign of Lilaenwen moving and no noise from the downstairs. Khamûl turned away from the couch where Lily was lying.
"Whaaa. Valandil, where are you?" said a disoriented voice from behind Khamûl.
"Udu. He has failed again," muttered Khamûl, spinning around to face Lily.
"I think I must have fallen asleep," said Lily, rubbing her eyes. "Khamûl. What are you doing here?"

[Rían]

Thursday, in the countryside outside of Tharbad

RÃ*an tied off the last braid. "There - that's done!" she said, surveying her work with satisfaction. "Family pattern; swordsman pattern; gold thread for Fingon; teardrop for the Nirnaeth; double tree for King's Guard."

Alagos got up and came over. "Hmm, nice - but why did you put the archer's pattern in there, too?"

"Right - like I would actually believe you, in the mood you've been in!" grunted Tyaron.

Alagos smiled and turned back to his sister. "That's really a nice job there, RÃ*an. I know we men grouse a lot about it, but you really are very talented, and it is nice to see some of those mementos again in a world that has forgotten Gondolin and its glories."

RÃ*an and Tyaron stood up, and Tyaron took her face gently between his hands and kissed her on the forehead. "Thank you very much! Alagos is right - it is nice to remember." He took her in his arms for a quick hug, and was surprised to see that he was the one that broke the embrace instead of RÃ*an.

RÃ*an had been enjoying the nice contrast of soft skin over hard muscle, since they were both still in their swimming clothes. She had also been sensing and enjoying a difference in Tyaron, although she couldn't quite identify what it was yet. "Maybe I should really give this a chance," she thought, leaning into his chest the way she had leaned into Valandil's chest the night of the dance that seemed so long ago, although it was really only a few days ago - and then Tyaron broke the embrace, somewhat to her surprise. She felt rather piqued, and then doubly piqued because she was piqued.

"This has been one of the most enjoyable days of my life!" Tyaron repeated. "But now I must start engraving the dagger - I promised to try to finish it in a few days, in time for his son's coming-of-age birthday." He went over to his bags and took out the dagger and his tools. "Why don't you continue with the stories, Alagos, and I'll work. I'll need to be quiet, myself, but I can listen. What do you think of these designs?" he added, handing his sketches to the man who had fought alongside him in the Nirnaeth.

Alagos examined them carefully, then nodded his head. "I think you've really captured it," he said quietly. "That will be a nice bit of work. I like the look you captured on Huor's face - I remember it well ... it seemed so odd at the time, but looking back, he knew; he looked ahead with the eyes of death, and saw what we didn't..."

RÃ*an looked at the drawings, and then handed them back to Tyaron. She said nothing; just looked into his eyes and nodded her head.

The three of them settled down comfortably and began - Alagos storytelling, RÃ*an listening, and Tyaron engraving the dagger with the design from his memories of the Battle of Unnumbered Tears.

[Lotesse]

Buzukhumarz the Fifth was upset. He was fed up, and no amount of dulling the senses with cheap wine and mortal distractions was going to calm him down. Not this time. Enough was enough. How dare she give him the blow off? Who did she think she was, treating him like another one of her stupid sexual lackeys? He was going to get to the bottom of her duplicitous shenanegans, once and for all. No longer was the Fifth going to be her patsy, oh no. Or so he fumed, as he angrily paced around his room and quarters at Orrodel House, flinging his clothes hither and thither, and at one point even angrily jabbing his side dagger into the thick mahogany desk in his little office alcove, next to his bed. He had pretended to go to the Star of Elendil, after leaving the girls at the University entrance, but instead he had opted to go back home and think. He needed to figure a few things out for himself.

"Why is no one straight with me," he thought bitterly and furiously. "They think I can be easily fooled, and HER, her especially. I am tired of being made a fool of at her gorgeous expense," and then, as his mind got sidetracked thinking of Lilaenwen's long, creamy thighs and intoxicating green eyes, and that silky, flame-red hair, that hair...

"Dammit!" he cried. He quickly composed himself after saying that out loud, and darted his eyes around his own room, as if there might have been someone in the shadows hearing his tantrum.

Annoyed with himself now, in addition to being annoyed with his girlfriend and his NazFamily, Buz decided to dress himself in his best clothes, and girt himself with his nicest weapons and tall, polished black boots, and go out and - do something. Yes, he was going to find that damn sewing circle, or wherever it was that Lil had said she and Vivvie were going to. He wanted to know what was going on. He felt like he was being left out of the loop, and that, he thought smugly to himself, was going to end, now.

Before leaving his room, after having dressed to the nines, he polished off a bottle of his finest Umbar rum, to prepare himself for an evening of discovery and personal conquest. He wondered if Viniglaen would mind if he borrowed her new magnificent horse.

Downstairs, as he donned his crimson cloak which had been hanging on the cloak-stand in the coatroom, he heard Silla, one of the new housemaids, shuttling around, making housekeeping noises.

"Miss!" he called. "Ah, miss - miss Silla, is it?"

The shuttling noises abruptly stopped, then after a beat, she shyly emerged from a side room, feather duster in hand.

"Yes, my lord?"

"Who was this man from whom you received correspondance earlier this evening?"

"My lord, I'm sure I do not know who that gentleman was. I merely received a letter from him -"

"A letter for the Lady Lilaenwen, correct?"

"Y-Yes, yes sir."

"Can you describe the man to me?"

"Um, he was - he was - it was difficult to tell, really, sir; I think he was a bit dark-looking, and of medium, tallish build, and - and sort of formidable seeming, I suppose, but other than that sir, I couldn't say."

Irritated, Buz cut the conversation off completely, and left the house, shutting the huge door behind him firmly and a bit loudly, for emphasis.


******************


Outside, the wind was really making everything confusing. Bits of leaves and whirlygigs of tiny windstorms were whipping up, making Buz even crazier with irritation. His cloak flapped up, and momentarily stuck to his face, and he whacked his arms around, trying to get the cloth out of his eyes. Finally getting himself sorted out, he tugged his front tunic down, and patted his breastpocket, where he kept his silver emergency flask of rum."Good thing I brought THIS," he thought;"It's going to be a long night."

In the stablehouse, his first obstacle was Frankie Gladheart, the goodest goodboy that Buz could remember having run into in the last hundred years or so.

"I need you to saddle and ready this black Mearas for me, boy," barked Buz as he bustled his way in and struggled to shut the door behind him.

"Good evening, sir!" responded Frankie, forgetting to smile through his nervousness.

"I disagree," said Buz gruffly, brushing the bits of twig and leaf out of his face and hair, "it is by no means a good evening. Now, saddle that horse for me, boy! Time's a wastin'."

"Yes, sir," said Frankie uncertainly, knowing full well that the horse was Vivvie's prize mare. He was getting to know the Lady Viniglaen, well enough to know how close she was to her mount. But Pengolod was a Lord of Orrodel; what a quandary! What could he, a lowly stableboy, say?

[CrazySquirrel]

Lilly was having a sweet dream.

They was lying in a sumptuous bed, and the High King, the crown on his head, was kissing her passionately. In between the kisses Lilly moaned "Val, my beloved, take away your crown , it is rather awkward in bed, don't you think?" .

Valandil pulled the crown from his ruffled hair and proffered it to her. "It is yours, my sweat Lilaenwen, yours forever." Lilly gripped the crown, put it on her head and awoke from pure bliss.

She found herself in bed, but alone. Disoriented, she looked around. A dark figure was standing near the window, its back to her.
"Whaaa. Valandil, where are you? ...I think I must have fallen asleep..." Lilly yawned and rubbed her eyes. The man at the window spun round.

"Khamûl. What are you doing here?" asked Lilly startled and suspicious. She noticed the quick change of emotions on the Easterling's face, then it settled in an awkward smile.

"Lilaenwen, I want to talk to you..." he started irresolutely, straining his ears for footsteps on the stair. He could overpower Lilly alone, but it might have become noisy.

Indignant, Lilly rose on her elbow and yelled "What is this stupid joke again? Where is the King, I ask you!"

Playing for time, Khamul continued "You see, Lilly, the letter you have got was not from the King. It was from me" He waved his hand to prevent another yell from Lilly, and continued in a rush. "I wanted some time with you in private. With all the others around, especially Buzukkumarz, how could I find the right time and place to speak of my feelings to you?"

Lilly's mouth dropped. Wide-eyed and thoroughly bewildered she peered at Khamul. She was experienced enough to recognise a beginning of a love declaration, but to have it coming unwarranted from the cruel Second himself was overwhelming.

Khamul eyed her warily. She was effectively silenced for now, drinking in his words and paying no heed to her surroundings. He detected the sound of an opening door downstairs in the hall. Swallowing hard, he continued to improvise.

"O Lilaenwen, for long years have I watched you, admiring your beauty and your wit, and giving my heart to no other. I watched you when you danced and sparred, when you trained your orcs or when you were flirting with the others. I kept my feelings hidden, as I was afraid you might turn them into mockery. Many times have I promised myself to forget you, but I couldn't..."

Lilly watched him transfixed, like a silly green frog watches a snake. Khamul smiled inwardly, hearing the stealthy footsteps on the stair. Making a mind contact with Udu, he commanded "She is awake. Approach from behind, make no noise, hit her on the head".

Dropping to his knees to distract Lilly further, Khamul yelled in order to hide the footsteps on the stair " O fair Lilly! Would you reject the one who loves you so dearly? Give me your heart and be my Queen. We shall leave this boring West and make our Kingdom in the fair East; it will stretch all the way from Rhovanion to Nurnen and to Rhun in the east! We shall rule together for all eternity!"

At the end of this speech he sprang forward and seized Lilly's hands in a passionate grip. Lilly sat frozen her huge green eyes blinking. Hearing the sound of the opening door, she turned her head absent-mindedly, but only caught a blur of movement. Something hard connected with her head and she sunk into oblivion.

[Telcontar_Dunedain]

"What happened?" said Udu, wiping the few drips of blood off his sword hilt and resheathing his blade.
"It seems that your potion has, fo a second time, not worked as well as hoped. Next time leave the planning to me and maybe then it will go more smoothly," said Khamûl sharply.
"Lily is more resistant than I presumed. Perhaps we have underestimated her," replied Udu.
"Underestimated her? She is a Nazgûl for Morgoth's sake. What did you expect? A mortal?" said Khamûl coldly, his eyes flaring up, remebering the past differences the two had shared.
"No, I apologise," answered Udu attempting to defuse the situation. "Well all is well now. Downstairs is prepared, should you care to add you own security improvments go ahead. I will follow shortly."
"Very well," said Khamûl, turning his back on the Seventh and wlaking towards the door. "Oh, Udukhaturz. If anything happens to go wrong in the two minutes that you are alone with Lilaenwen I will personally see to it that you are punished as severley as Lily will be."
"Of course," said Udu bitterly before calling. "Ulfang, take Lady Lilaenwen down to the cellar."

[Udukhaturz]

Ulfang looked hesitantly at Udu. “Are you sure she is asleep, Master?�

“I am certain, Ulfang,� Maethor said impatiently.

Ulfang looked back at his master and then at the unconscious Lilly. “I... I...� he stuttered. “I am almost afraid to touch her, Master!�

“She is harmless this way,� Udu said irritably. “But if you are afraid she will awaken, I will carry her.�

Maethor bent down and scooped up the sleeping form of Lilaenwen from the bed. “Pretty, foolish Lilaenwen,� he thought. “You walked right into our trap. Did you enjoy your brief stay in my bed-chambers? Did you find the bed comfortable? Were you pleased with the paintings on the wall?� He bent down and kissed her soft, lush ruby red lips. “I do not think you will be quite so pleased with what we have prepared for you,� he laughed softly.

Draped over his arms, her arms, torso and head hung limply to one side, her long, unbound mane hanging down in a red cascade. Udu carried her down the stairs, her limbs lolling with each step. When he reached the first floor, he turned down the stairs leading to the dungeon. At the bottom of the steps there waited three more strong, grim-faced Easterling warriors, all armed with fierce scimitars, knives and daggers.

Turning to a man whose face was decorated with many tattoos, Maethor asked, “Is Brodda keeping watch as he has been commanded?�

“Yes, Master, he just reported a short time ago. All is well.�

“See that he keeps to his duty,� Maethor barked. “Now the rest of you wait here,� he said as they reached the corridor leading to the special cells.

Maethor found Khamul inside, inspecting the cell. “Are you certain, Seventh, that these chains will hold her?�

“I enspelled them myself, but perhaps you can add your power, Second, and, might I suggest, this would be an appropriate time to take her ring.�

[The last sane person]

At the river, thursday afternoon
Shah's patrol

His men had finally reached the river banks, and could see the enemy very clearly. And seeing the volley of arrows shot into the woods surrounding the bank, he knew Marthalion's men were under fire. He gave the signal to his men to sneak around back, in order to come up from behind the shelter of the woods and give what aid they could. Screams of pain comming from the thicket added to their sense of urgency.

Shah and his men were flagged down by one of the troopers in the first patrol. Shah noted the smoldering sheets and decks of two of the remaining three ships. Good man! Kill the bastards...but we must give chase... Marty did a double take, as the men comming towards him looked more like warriors made of clay than of flesh and blood, so caked in it they were.

"Go, Shah, we need cover fire from the other side of this thicket. Take some of my men and go to a defensible position just south of here, behind those rocks. I'd move my men there, but we are pinned. They don't know you are here yet." Marty was bleeding, and he didnt know it. Shah didn't bother to comment, not wanting to scare the young man. Though it looks as though he has had worse.... He thought with a rueful smile.

He directed his men and picked out a few of Marty's in the brief respite that the pirates gave them, trying to sort out their own problems aboard ship. He subtly looked over Marthalion, and dismissed the wounds as minor. "Marty, look, that ship that headed back in the middle down stream. I'll bet my bottom mark that that is the ship with the leader of this bunch. We ought to get reinfocements soon, that falcon I sent you has headed to Tharbad and to Mahtaliel. We just have to hang on."

"I hope you are right. We can't hold out much longer, unless they decide to come ashore for a tea party. We must pin down those two remaining ships, if we try to go and shoot in the open at the command ship, we will be finnished!"

"I know, I have the men we will need sir, ready to deploy!" Raendil had gathered the men that would form the second group of archers and with a nod, and Shah mounted up and rode for the safe point. Marty's men took the signal and returned fire on the Pirate ships, and a confused hail of arrows were sent into the thicket.

"Wait for it men, wait for it...." Shah was hard pressed to wait for it himself, but the Pirate archer's captian had signalled for them to rise and fire again, after Marty's return salvo thinned their number and forced them to take shelter. "NOW! FIRE AS ONE!" They aimed for the ship closest to them, effectively knocking them well into confusion, and giving some breathing room for Marty's men to stand up and take out some of the other ship's remaining archers.

Raendil didn't like bows. But at this range, he didnt quite care, because his had a fire arrow and was aiming for something he'd be hard pressed to miss: The pilot at the rudder. And into him arrow went, still burning merrily in the man's chest, as he toppled over into the water. The ship suddenly turned with no one to guide it in this rough weather, and started swaying one way and the other. Shah looked over to him and gave a triumphant cry, signaling his men to up and fire.

Though luck quickly changed hands, as one scared pirate let loose an arrow his way. Shah's triumphant shout was cut short as a dart sped his way, and found a home in his side. He felt a searing pain shoot up from the base of his spine unto the base of his brain. He toppled and his head met a rock. He saw white, and faded into it.

[The last sane person]

Shah lay unconscious to the screaming and tumult of battle surrounding him. His mind was engulfed in a battle of its own.

No! Pain, Darkness and Screams swirled around in the dark recesses of Shah’s mind. No, please, god no! Darkness attacked what light he saw, twirling his worst memories in front of his eyes, mixing them among happier times. Something snapped.

NO! Shah roared, driving back the suffocating blackness, reclaiming his memories in a bright shell, surrounding that which he held sacred. The darkness withdrew to the edges, shifting to each monstrous memory Shah had ever strove against. He braced himself for the onslaught, and the shadow charged only to be driven off by a familiar figure…. wielding a mace. Mahta? He saw only the outline, the inside being white and silver, to bright for his eyes. Mahta! Wait! Where are you going? The bright figure turned to face him, then nodded back to the glowing pearl that was his soul’s shield.

He took a step forward, and then saw the shadow coming back at him. His eyes darted back to Mahtaliel, only to see her silhouetted form disappear into the luminous globe of his memories. He darted after her, suspended for a moment in all that was good to him, being cleansed of the darkness. He then found himself in a sweet memory.

Imladris? After the war… He had found himself back in the Last Homely House, sitting in the shade of a tree in the garden, his mind not truly in the beautiful garden surrounding him, but back in the gruesome battle of the black lands. Elves… Indeed, for coming down the path were two Imladris elves. They spotted him, and whispered among themselves, apparently formulating a joke. Once agreed, they approached him.

“Sir, we think that there would be a person of interest to you. Someone with whom you could speak more comfortably?� Shah saw himself eye the two elves with suspicion. He heard himself reply, “Speak with whom? Who is this person who you claim I could talk with?� He remembered that the elves had put on their best faces and replied, “A warrior who has lost all, just as you have they are located in the forge, near the stream, should you wish to have some one to confide in.� Shah watched as his former self got up, and with the bare minimum of politeness left the elves and wandered away.

He remembered hearing, once out of eyesight of the elves, “So Erestor, what say you, which is more crazy? That man or Mahtaliel?� He also remembered the reply, “Oh, I think they about equate with each other. Five bottles of wine says that Mahta will strike the first blow.� The other elf had a smile in his voice, which Shah remembered stopping to listen to, “I’ll take that bet!�


Shah remembered being curious as to whom this Mahtaliel person was, and casually made his way over to the indicated forge. He remembered seeing her for the first time, lit by the fire of the forge pounding away at an old sword. He froze for a moment near the anvil, as he noticed the smith.It’s a woman. He saw himself move out of the forge and knock over a hammer. The woman at the forge immediately whipped around with the red-hot sword she was working with. Shah’s battle instinct took over the much younger version that he saw, and the younger Shah moved to parry with a long heavy hammer.

Shah watched as the two combatants glared at each other through the shower of sparks, weapons still connected and aloft. As he was standing in the shadows observing this memory, there was the silver figure standing next to him, watching as well.

[Serenoli]

Finally in familiar territory, Jas looked more comfortable, and made a beeline for the larder, leaving Eärniel standing somewhat uncertainly at the doorway. She wondered if, now he was safely back in his room, she might not leave him there. But, then, she was not sure that he was still completely sober, and he had promised her a story after all. So, she set about making the room slightly more cheerful, by pulling the curtains to let in the sunshine and tidying up here and there. Then she settled down in the armchair, the very one the Chancellor had graced several hours ago, as it was the only one completely free of clothes, wine bottles, books, and other such debris.

Before long, Jas appeared again, basket in hand, whistling. He gave Eärniel a beaming smile when he saw her.

"Still here? Good. I know I have something to tell you. Can't remember what, right now, but doubtless some breakfast will help."

With a magnificient sweep of his arms, he cleared the table of his last night's sadly-untouched supper, and then went about setting the table. Once he was done, he pulled the table with all his might, until it was inches in front of Eärniel. Pulling up another chair, he sat down opposite her, and announced, "Dig in!"

And with that, he attacked his food with vigour. More to keep him company than because she was hungry, Eärniel joined him. A few minutes of furious munching, and his immediate hnger was abated, and he began his tale.

"It all started with... well, I'm not exactly sure, but, I do know I went to sleep. And, I started having all these dreams. But, wait, I didn't even tell you who I am did I? My name is Jas Fernik, and my father owns a vineyard, the biggest in our country, and I suppose I should ask you your name, if you have one, but if you don't, it doesn't really signify, dreams hardly ever do-"

"Eärniel." She cut in sharply, and clearly.

"Nice name! So, are you an elf?" This he said with trepidation and some hesitation.

"Yes, of course."

"Wow! I mean, I've never seen one before, you know, because there are none in my part of the world. But, to make it all short, I fell asleep when I shouldn't have... and perhaps thats why I had such bad dreams, guilt, you know. I had a dream where I was in this room, and the man, the nasty one I told you about, came and kept talking of languages and classes, until I got tired and told him to shut up... and oh, its very confusing, but then I found myself here. And I was just going to have supper, when that dratted man jumped up on me just when I was going to have my supper, and he was very rude!"

Here he paused to take a sip of wine, "So, of course I told him what's what, and told him just what I thought of him, and then I tried to make him disappear, because like you, he's just someone I imagined- not that I want to make you disappear, of course... I like you. You're nice like the red-haired woman."

"And he said some very ugly words, some spell, I think, and then - " he gave a dramatic pause "I turned into a big blubbering FROG!"

For a moment, there was just silence, and a sound of munching, and then Jas went on, "Now isn't that amazing? I mean, yes, its a dream, and wierd things do happen in dreams, but still!"

"This man you keep talking about... what does he look like? I mean, I shall have to stay away from him, won't I?"

"Oh, he's... well, not really ugly, I mean his face is all right, but he has the most awful burning blue eyes, although they're sometimes grey. And he has silver hair, like Grandpa's, and someone as old as he is should not be going around scaring boys! And he's as tall as a giant, and very big, you know. But, you'll know him by his voice."

"What's so special about his voice?"

Jas shuddered, and replied, in a rather scared voice, "Its just so... makes you think of winter, everlasting winter" and his voice was a whisper now, "and hearing it makes me think I would be trapped in ice, forever, and not even die!"

The atmosphere became tense at these words, and Eärniel was shocked at how frightened his face was of a sudden. Then, he turned his attention to his food, and in a tone of bravado proceeded to inform her proudly that despite all the fear the voice had caused, he, jas Fernik, had still stood up bravely to him.

"After all, nasty men like him really should not be encouraged. Leastaways, that's my opinion."

[Serenoli]

In the dark and sinister cellar of Udu's house, Tolvadok went around inspecting the equipment, while really thinking of the kiss that still seemed to be burning into his cheek. He wondered how it would have been if he had met her years ago, when he was the darling prince of his people, handsome, both outside and inside, and... no! He would never think of that past again. He was no longer Girithron, no matter how much Yerri saw Girithron in him. He was a slave, bound willingly to his master, and Yerri had no place in his life. He would have to find a way to rid himself of her, she reminded him too much of a forgotten and useless past, reminded him too much of a time when he was the enemy of Lord Sauron. No, that shameful period of his life was best forgotten, and buried.

And, then he rebuked himself sternly for being so taken with a chit of a girl he hardly knew, who he had met but two days ago!

Putting his mind to the job, he found himself surprised by the quality of the equipment before him. Having always designed everything in Mordor, he had hardly supposed either Udu or Khamul of being anywhere near as talented as him. As he inspected a suspicious looking rack, a sudden happy thought came to him. The others were still upstairs. Might it not be time for a little... sabotage?

Nothing big, just a little screw unloosed here, a blade there, a spell somewhere else, and Lily's pain would lessen... and Khamul would in all probability blame Udu for all malfunctions.

Footsteps on the stairs behind him, and he assumed the most nonchalant walk he could, and climbed out of the cellar, passing by Khamul who was going down.

Upstairs, he got himself a bottle of wine, and drank up. He knew his little sabotage would not really help that much, and he needed fortification for the night ahead, if he was to witness it all quietly. He smiled wryly at how soft he was getting... he supposed it was all the contact with mortals that did it. What he needed was a good dose of battle, washing off the weakness with the blood of those he slew on the battle-field. He had not had a good fight for years... perhaps, he could fight Khamul... like he had wanted to for so long. And, immersed in his fantasies, he finished the bottle sip by sip.

[Udukhaturz]

Maethor held the unconscious Lilaenwen as Khamul locked the enspelled manacles about her wrists.

“Hoist her up to the horizontal bar!� Khamul ordered. Udu, a fiendish look upon his face, turned the crank of the windlass. With a clanking of chains, Lilly’s limp body was raised up and soon dangled far above the floor of the dungeon.

“That is too high, Seventh! What were you thinking?�

With a twist of the windlass, Lilly’s body fell downwards, stopping just before it crashed onto the floor.

“She is too low now! Up higher!� Khamul commanded.

“It is amusing to see her bob up and down like a puppet,� Udu chuckled evilly as Lilly bounced up and down with each creak of the windlass.

“Right there,� Khamul said after Udu had sent her lurching between the floor and the ceiling a few more times.

Lilly now was firmly secured with her feet hanging about a foot from the floor. Udu walked over to her and looked at her bent head. He grabbed her by her loose hair and pulled her face up to look at his.

“Enjoying yourself, Lilaenwen?� he smirked.

“We do not have time for this!� Khamul growled.

“What do you suggest?� Udu asked. “The whip?�

“No, first I will make certain that your spells are strong enough,� he said as he bent his head and intoned a holding spell. “There. Now we go to work.�

“Let me first,� Udu hissed.

“As you will,� Khamul said and stood watching.

Lilly awoke screaming as lash after lash fell upon her back.

[Telcontar_Dunedain]

"Enjoying yourself Lilaenwen?" said Khamûl, has Udu briefly stopped whipping the Sixth Nazgûl.
"Khamûl? But you said, you said that you loved me," said Lily, her voice faltering.
"You've known me for long enough. I say many things. many if which are untrue," said Khamûl.
"But why?" said Lily.
"Are you that stupid Lilaenwen? You had awoken, I could have taken care of you myself, but it may have become messy, I felt Udu coming and told you something I knew you'd like to hear. You never could resist someone who flattered you. I knew you would be preoccupied and told Udukhaturz to approach you from behind and hit you on the head," said Khamûl smiling coldly.
"So it was all a set up. What about the letter? Did Valandil send that? I felt no one near Orrodel, well except Buz and Tol," said Lily.
"It was one of my servants, Ulfang, maybe you would like to meet him," said Udu, beforing calling his servant frm upstairs.
"Yes, my lord," said Ulfang, a minute or so later. "You called."
"Yes Ulfang, Lady Lilaenwen wished to meet you, and I wished to show you how little danger she now is," said Udu. "Should I proceed Lord Khamûl?"
"Yes, for a short while," said Khamûl.
"No," screeched Lily. "Seven. Remeber your place. As your superior I command you to stop."
"And you should remember your place Six. I am commanding him to continue, and unless the Captain shall come and say otheriwse that is what shall happen," said Khamûl, the anger in his voice rising.
"Noooooooooooooo," screamed Lily, shaking as well as she possibly could. Suddenly the top of wooden beam slipped on one side, leaving Lily hanging only from her right arm.
"Seven, what is this? Did you not say all was in order," barked Khamûl.
"It was. Ulfang, was all not in order? You checked everything did you not?" said the Seventh.
"Yes sir, all was fine an hour ago, all screws in place, all ropes tightened," replied Ulfang.
"Well then clearly something has happened in the last hour," said Khamûl, his eye glancing upstairs.

[Udukhaturz]

“Obviously, my lord Khamul, we have a traitor in our midst, and who else could it be but the sniveling weakling Tolvadok? He has grown soft over the years and his resolve has lessened... but I have had two cells built,� Udukhatûrz chortled. “Perhaps he could be housed in the other?� Udu hissed viciously. “And you, Ulfang,� Udu said, tapping the hilt of the whip against his thigh. “Perhaps you would like to trade places with the lady?�

Ulfang looked from one to the other, apprehension building up. “No, Master, no!� the man cried, falling to the floor, begging.

“Then call another of your number. Prepare the grate and hot coals as quickly as you can!� Udu looked at Khamul. “With your permission?�

“Yes,� Khamul said, smiling. “Toast her!�

“No! No!� Lilly shrieked. “You cannot do this! This is a fiendish torture!� she said, batting her eyes appealing to them in her feminine wiles.

“Why not, Lilly?� Udu said, walking over to her and picking up her chin. “Just why not?� he smiled.

After a pinch on her lovely cheeks, Udu walked over to the windlass and lowered Lilly with a crash to the floor. Quickly she was dragged to a large iron grate suspended upon chains from the ceiling. The grate was pulled back at an angle; nearby Ulfang and the other warrior had filled a metal trough with flaming coals. The two Nazgûl threw Lilly down on the grate and chained her neck, waist, wrists and ankles down. The grate was then swung down and held over the brazier. The level of pain produced by this torture could be lessened or heightened by a mere pull on the chains that held the grate over the fire.

“No, no!� Lilly screamed.

“Let us hope that the grate does not fall,� Udu said snidely from a safe distance, “or Lilly’s fine feathers will surely singe!�

Khamul began to lower the grate up and down, bringing Lilly closer to the flames and then raising the device back up.

[Lady Marion Magdalena]

She had been sent to Curufin to finish her apprentinceship. Out of the seven brothers he was the best at metalwork and the only one with a child of his own. Maedhros had said it would help her recover to have a cousin closer in age to herself around.

Abruptly she stopped that memory. She wasn't ready to remember Celebrimbor yet.

It was odd, maybe it was just that he had been the last, they hadn't been that close and yet...

His death had hurt the most. She had grieved for the others yes, but they hadn't been themselves for a long time by the end. Dying had been the only release for them.

She had believed it to be a release for them.

She had to. Iluvatar surely wouldn't be that cruel.

Would he?

She wasn't certain anymore. Perhaps she never should have been certain, but even through all the grief of the first age she had held on to the belief that surely Iluvatar could see that her cousins weren't all bad. They had looked out for eachother, for her, for their followers. They had tried.

Surely forgivness wasn't out of the question.

But then Celebrimbor had been taken as well. The Deceiver had been allowed to remain free. They had been betrayed again.

It was unbearable.

During the retreat-

No. She wasn't ready to remember that either. She hadn't wanted to exist, much less live during that time. Why they had bothered to save her was a mystery.

She had asked Glorfindel once, (having never met him during the first age she found him more approachable than Elrond, barely); he had said 'Why not?'

She suspected he knew something and wasn't telling, smug, re-embodied b- vanya that he was...

That had been during one of her saner moments. There had been more of them during the too brief peace that followed.

In retrospect, fighting in the Last Alliance had been a mistake, though a necessary one, they had needed every person they could get. Apparently though, her going berserk in battle had caused a set-back. She didn't remember much out of those years either. Just that she had been sent back to Imladris soon after the start of the siege.

She remembered being allowed to work in the forge though. They had never stopped her from being in there, it was the only place she became calm.

They never asked why.

They didn't know that she was never alone in a forge, that everytime she worked she felt her family come alive again. Saw them in the flames, the metals, the gems, the tools, the quenching waters, in the the stone and the wood and even the ashes... in a forge they were all around her.

Which is why she hadn't noticed the intruder at first... the man they had sent to visit her.

Him she was glad to remember.

[Serenoli]

Screams... he woke up a drunken stupor, and focused his eyes. Who was screaming? Lily...

The mist in his brains cleared, and he got up at once, bounding down the stairs to the cellar. For the moment, all thoughts of noble evilness was gone, replaced by the urgency which Lily's panicky scream called forth. In seconds, he was down the cellar steps, and had flung the door to the torture chanber wide open.

A gruesome scene met his eyes. Lily, chained and shackled over burning flames, was screaming fit to burst, and pulling on the chains nearby, gloating, stood Khamul. Before he knew where he was, Tolvadok had uttered a hoarse cry, "Stop!"

For a moment, no one moved. Then, Khamul secured the grate at a comfortable distance from the flames, and turned to face Tolvadok, a smile of pure malice spreading over his face.

"Stop, shall I? And who are you to command me?"

Cursing himself for his runaway mouth, but realizing, he could not very well take back what he had said, Tolvadok replied, as deferentially as possible, "I was merely pointing out, that the Morgul Lord did order that we should not destroy Lily's body, but only curb her spirit... those flames can leave burns that will scar her forever. If you must torture her, then use a more-"

"And was it part of your orders to teach me my job? I know what has to be done better than you! And do you think I do not know who has been tampering with our equipment?"

Tolvadok breathed in softly. So they knew already of his foolishness.

Khamul continued, taunting and angry, "You have grown soft and indolent, you have not the power of a true Nazgul. Don't interfere where you're not needed, or else..." He left the threat hanging in the air.

Tolvadok felt the full force of the jeers, probably because he himself felt there might be truth in the accusation that he, Tolvadok, might have grown too weak to be a Nazgul.

"Or else what, Khamul the Second? You'll go and complain to the Morgul Lord? Go ahead and do so, and you'll find that he will tax you with having forgotten your orders." Then putting his hand on the longsword hanging on his belt, he continued with a half-smile, "Or perhaps you were thinking of torturing me as you are doing Lily? You won't find me so easy a prey, and at any rate, I won't give in without a fight. But perhaps you think yourself above fighting a weak indolent opponent?"

With baited breath, he waited to see if Khamul would take his bait. As long as he could get Khamul to attack first, the Morgul Lord could not reproach him. He could always claim he was doing it in self-defence...

[CrazySquirrel]

Lilly awoke from the pain in her head and wrists. She was hopelessly void of even the slightest idea where she was and why. Then a familiar face sprang into focus... Udu!

“Enjoying yourself, Lilaenwen?� he smirked, his usually handsome face disfigured by an ugly grin.

Lilly moistened her dry lips and tried to utter a sound. The room was dim, the objects looked like ghostly shadows in a thick mist. Without looking at her hand, Lilly knew that her Ring was gone. The loss was like a dagger through her heart. She wailed from the agony of it, when a sting of a whip on her back turned her mournful wail into a piercing shriek. After some agonising moments, the whipping stopped.

"Enjoying yourself Lilaenwen?" another voice repeated the same jibe, this one belonging to the Second.

"Khamûl? But you said, you said that you loved me," muttered Lily, her voice faltering. She knew better already. The damned Easterling loved no one and nothing. How could she be such a fool as to believe his words of love?

The rest was a blur. She tried to reason with them of course, tried to plead and to command, but the ugly grins they wore only widened. Lash after lash fell upon her back, until one of her desperate tugs on the manacles dislodged the horizontal bar she was hanging from.

The monsters stopped for a brief discussion. Lilly's mind raced. She searched frantically with her senses and detected a third familiar presence, upstairs. By the feel of him, Tolvadok appeared asleep or unconscious. Sure, he was no better than the others, but now he was her last hope! Lilly concentrated her thoughts and sent a mental scream of agony, a nazgul call for help right into his mind.

At this moment, Khamul said, smiling like a fiend he was “Toast her!�

“No! No!� Lilly shrieked. “You cannot do this! This is a fiendish torture!� she said, batting her long lashes appealingly.

“Why not, Lilly? Just why not?� Udu smiled smugly and pinched her cheek.

With a twist of the windlass, Lilly’s body crashed onto the floor. Agony sprung up, travelling through the readhead's spine to her head.

Lilly screamed shrilly "You have always lusted after me, you cowards! Have I not noticed how you eyed me? But I never as much as looked at you, I would better kiss a dirty orc!"

The two laughed at her words. Gloating, they chained and shackled her over burning flames. Lilly was screaming fit to burst, the flames were always a terror to their kind and the two nazgul knew it.

"Stop!" said a new voice.

Lilly was too weak to turn her head, but she knew that Tolvadok was there to rescue her. With her convulsing brain, she projected into Tol's mind the picture of her soft ruby lips, and of their kiss, slow, languorous and laden with promise of more to come...

The effort took all her remaining forces and she blackened out.

[Rían]

Thursday and onward,
in the countryside outside of Tharbad

Tyaron finished the last line of the engraving, wiped the blade, and looked at it quietly for a moment. He held it up and turned it around anxiously, critically, and then slowly and contentedly. The lines from one side continued onto the other and blended the two patterns into one whole. He sighed deeply - the sigh of an artist's contentment and relief at completing the movement of a thought conceived in his head to its birth into the world - and handed the dagger to Alagos. Alagos examined it, tracing the flowing lines with his finger and exclaiming softly under his breath, then handed it to RÃ*an. He looked at Tyaron and nodded his head.

RÃ*an looked at the dagger, and then up at the two men. Handing it back to Tyaron, she said quietly, "Hope in the midst of sorrow; beauty that cannot die, even in the midst of tragedy ... " Tyaron nodded, and she handed the blade back.

"That's just what came to me - that's not what I originally intended," he said. "The first pictures I saw in my head were of the death and destruction of the Nirnaeth, but then these arose from the darkness, and I couldn't get them out of my head ... I didn't even want them, but I couldn't get them out of my head - I had to make them ..."

Tyaron looked at the dagger one more time, and then rose and carefully put it away. As he returned, RÃ*an's voice rose up softly in an old, familiar song, a stanza of the song of Beren's farewell to the world that held Lúthien's beauty:

Though all to ruin fell the world
and were dissolved and backward hurled
unmade into the old abyss,
yet were its making good, for this -
the dusk, the dawn, the earth, the sea -
that Lúthien for a time should be.

"That's why you fight, isn't it?" she asked him.

"Yes," answered Tyaron. "Evil wants only to get, and to do that, it takes away, wrongfully and cruelly, from those not as strong as itself. But the impulse of good is to give, and in the giving, it ends up getting far more than evil could ever dream of ... There are some things that cannot be taken; only given..." he said softly.

"I hate seeing the tyranny of evil over the innocent!" he continued, standing up and pacing around. "I hate it! and that's why I fight it. And yet ..." he continued in a softer voice, "sometimes I find that evil in myself ..." He stood very still and looked out over the countryside.

"And that battle is harder than the Nirnaeth," observed Alagos. Tyaron turned to look at him, his face torn by many emotions, and pain in his eyes. Alagos looked back at him steadily until Tyaron turned away.

[Lotesse]

Lomi followed the Lady Lilaenwen, as per Viniglaen's instructions, the best she could. It was no easy task, manoeuvring through the whipping tree rances and dodging leaves and such, but Lomi with her owl's senses was able to make do. Lilly wasn't a hard target to follow, that blazing hair billowing in the wind like a banner. Lomi observed her enter the triangular house, and then waitied for a moment, scanning the area some more, before leaving to track down Viv again and give her report.

Viniglaen met Lomi outside the Observatory, just as she had come down from her brief audience with her Captain, and Viv put her arm out for Lomi.

"I shall lead you to the place where she went," said Lomi.

" Not yet, Lomi, we need to find my big brother Buz first. He goes with us; he'll be our escort tonight."

"Smart idea," agreed Lomi, bobbing along on Viv's arm, feathers getting blown backwards and asunder in the fitful wind. Now even sharp shards of rain had begun lashing and biting down, and they picked up pace, Viv pulling her head in and down against the elements.

"Where did he go after he left us at the University; did he say the Star of Elendil?"

"He did not go there, my lady," said Lomi, shaking her tufted head and picking up the volume of her voice a little to cut through the rain and wind. " He changed course back towards Orrodel, and I did not follow him all the way but most likely that's where he went. "

It only took a few minutes to get to the mansion, as Viv was very, very fast when she wanted to be; unnaturally fast. As they came around the stablehouse entry, to enter through the back of Orrodel like Viv always liked to, they heard the frustrated gruff pleas of Buz, inside the stables, and the irritated, angrily frightened whinnies of her prized mare, Laslech.

Viv pulled open the doors, and Lomi fluttered off and perched on the frame of one of the stables, shaking her feathers furiously, and Viv threw back her hood.

"What is going ON in here?" she said.

"Vivvie! Thank Morg- I mean, good thing you've arrived, just in time. I needed to borrow your horse, little sis; didn't think you'd mind, but the damnable beast won't let me anywhere near it!"

Viv rushed up to Laslech, and soothed her, and calmed her down. Looking up at Buz, she shook her head.

"I just don't have time to be annoyed with you right now for this," said Viv. "Listen, penny, we've got to go find someone right now, it is VERY urgent," she glanced sideways at Frankie Gladheart, who stood in the corner watching, a bit shy and baffled. She switched to thoughtspeak, using her bright deep eyes to convey the urgency of what she needed to say.

'It's Lil,' she transmitted, her lips pursed worriedly, 'Something's going on that I fear might be overwhelming for her. Our Captain has full knowledge and approves of whatever itr is, but listen, Buz, it can't be good, and surely she is over-matched and being ganged up on right now. We have to DO something!'

'I'm more worried more that she's cheating on me again, but now that you mention it, I DO feel an alarm-sense, a stress-sense, coming from her. What are we waiting for, then? Let's find her!'

They switched back to spoken voice, so as not to freak out the young stableboy too much with prolonged, intense silences.

"And we are NOT taking my mare, Pengolod; she does not tolerate anyone else upon her back but myself and her former master, my boyfriend. You should know better," and they together pulled their hoods up snug around their heads and with Lomi this time hunkered down snug on Vivvie's shoulder, they pushed outside again, against the crazy elements, heading for the triangular house which Lomi had last seen Lil at.

[Telcontar_Dunedain]

"Leave," said Khamûl as calmly as he possibly could.
"What?" said Tolvadok surprised.
"Leave. I will not be ordered around or be baited by my inferior?" said Khamûl.
"Baited?" said Tol, acting as surprised as he possibly could.
"Yes baited. If you wish to plan and scheme against me Tolvadok the close your find before you do so," said Khamûl. "Now you will leave, that is unless you want to fight me. Feel free. Draw your blade. I will not attack first but I swear by the name of Morgoth that if you do so you will leave this realm bodiless and kept alive only by the power given to you by your master."
"My master?" replied Tol, flexinghis fingers round the hilt of his blade.
"Yes your master. You know full what I mean. It would not surprise me if you were reporting to him now," said Khamûl, his anger building up inside him and now reflecting in his voice.
"You are here not to find the Ring for the Captain but for him. He who made us like this. He who condemned us to this half life. Have you forgotten all of this Lord Tolvadok? Have you forgotton the life you used to lead. Fighting him, for your people, the people you loved and who loved you. Do you not remember what he turned you into, what these turned you turned us into?" said Khamûl holding up his ring finger. "Do you remember the last time you felt the wind in your hair? The sun on your face? We are not alive Tolvadok, yet we are not dead. We are compelled to an eternity of walking this earth, and this is his doing. Yet you still serve him. Is this not true?"
"I serve only myself," replied Tol, turning and making his way to the door.
"Khamûl," said Udu urgently. "There are more of us approaching. Lady Viniglaen and Lord Buzukkumarz I think."

[Udukhaturz]

"He was always a sniveling fool," Maethor growled as he watched Tolvadok leave the cell. "My lord Khamul, I sense that we have company, but they shall not disturb us until our work here is finished."

"What do you mean, Seventh?" Khamul asked in surprise.

"Just this," he said as he looked towards the door and entoned a warding spell. A puff of yellow smoke began curling about the room and when it reached the doorway, the heavy gate clanged shut with a solemn finality.

"The door shall not open until I give the command," Udu said, walking towards Lilly.

Moved now to a safe distance from the flames, Lilaenwen was stirring once again. Udu bent down and stared into her frightened eyes. "Such lovely hair you have, Lilly..." he said as he reached down to the nape of her neck and severed her mane with his wicked dagger. Tossing her locks into the flames, he watched it as it incinerated into a heap of glowing dust. Lilly closed her eyes tightly, but that did not prevent the tears which streamed down her face.

"Your hair does not smell so good when it is burning, does it, lovely Lilaenwen? Let me see what other parts you do not need... fingers... toes... surely you do not need all of them," Udu hissed as she began screaming again.

"Lust for you, Lilaenwen?" he laughed. "On the contrary, my dear. It is you who have always lusted for all of us! You have practically thrown yourself at my feet, begging for my touch! Perhaps if you no longer have those beautiful green eyes, you will no longer be able to see to lust for any!" he laughed.

"You are a dog, Seventh!" she said as she spit in his face.

He wiped the spittle off with the back of his hand.

"You should not have done that! And that tongue, Lilaenwen... you could do well without it. The loss of it would make you far more appealing," he hissed as he pried her mouth open.

A snarl pierced the air. "You bit me!" he cried, looking at her with hate. Her head drew back as he slapped her across the face and put the edge of the blade to her lips.

"Shall I, Lilly?" he laughed.

[Lady Marion Magdalena]

Thursday, mid-morning

As if summoned by Mahta's thoughts, Blackwing swooped out of the sky, landing beside Mahta on the wall.

"Pirates! Attacked the patrol! Halfway between here and Lond Daer!"

"How many?"

"Dozen ships."

"Too many then." Mahta offered her arm for the falcon to perch on and started down the stairs, moving more quickly than was safe on the now slippery steps.

"Careful!" Blackwing scolded, "You can't help them if you slip and injure yourself!"

"Sorry about that." Mahta re-gained her balance and kept moving. Soon she reached her home and wrote out two notes, briefly hesitating over the second. Attaching them to Blackwing's leg she gave a stream of instructions, "Take the first to Oreturion, he'll alert the king. Then fly to Nin-in-Eilph and deliver the second to the elves there. They probably won't want to get involved, but they should still know."

"Yes lady."

"Good." Mahta took Blackwing back outside and launched her into the sky. Going back inside she quickly changed into dry clothing, and a layer of chainmail covered by her leather smith's apron. She didn't have time to put more armor on, but it would be foolish to neglect it altogether.

A quarter of an hour later the City's warning bell was ringing, gathering all guards, able-bodied men and women and an officer from the Garrison across the bridge sent to see what the matter was.

By noon it was settled. Half of Tharbad's forces would sail downriver with the hardier sailors present. The other half would prepare to defend the city. The gondorians had agreed to travel via the causeway, and would attack the pirates from the south bank.

Mahta would go with the sailors.

[Lotesse]

Buz and Viv pushed their way into the house of Maethor, and made a beeline for the area from which emanated Lilly's distress call. It was faint, and faint also were the emanances of presence of Tolvadok, Udu and Khamul, although faint as it was, still to Buz and Viv it was as clear as could be. They didn't even speak anymore; the two Nazgul were as one mind, in a driven effort to track down the source of the distress. Upon reaching the dungeon entrance, and finding it solidly shut with a spell, Viv looked exasperated, a "now what" look on her face. But Buz shook his head furiously, and motioned her to wait. He was thinking, remembering... He had a treasure trove of spell information back in his dusty old brain, and now was the time to find some of it and put it to use.

It finally came to him, and he snapped his fingers, and held up a hand, eyes half closed, very intensely concentrating, he recalled the counter-spell which unlatched the demonicly bolted door, and cleared the yellow mist of impossibility. Itr was no small feat, and took all of Buzukhumarz' concentration, but he had it in him. Necessity, for Buz, was the "key" to unlocking his own education in the spells and dark arts which he'd neglected taking seriously for so long. Lately, it had been nothing but frolicking and drinking, but now, he was needed, and that made all the difference.

The door easily swung open, inward, and the two Nazgul beheld the scene. Instantly, Viniglaen was at Udu,s throat with her small yet vice-like hands, and her eyes were now like thin diamond blades, and literally cut Udu to the brain for a moment, causing him to twitch her hands off him with one giant convulsion. Now his attention was off Lilaenwen, but all the focus was transferred to young Viv.

Buz, wasting no time, went straight over to Khamul and drop-kicked him in the head, causing the Second to fall with a loud thwump onto the dusty dungeon floor. As fast as he took the hit and fall, Khamul was back on his feet again, sword drawn and pointed right at Buz's face. Buz did not flinch; he stood there and glared at Khamul while the sword was in his face, and for an eternal moment, everyone was sort of frozen in their respective poses of wrathful destruction.

Then, Tolvadok reappeared, and came up quickly behind Khamul, and smacked the Second with the flat of his sword, along the backside of Khamul's head. Which turned Khamul's attention to Tol, and then it was Tol and Buz on top of a raging Khamul, and Viv was being alternately strangled and punched in the head by a viciously irrational Udu.

PUNCH! "Give -" PUNCH! "Give her -" stranglestrangle " her r- r- Ring," Viv struggled to say through her crushed larynx, and then in her mind she furiously transmitted in quick thought-speak, 'You KNOW this is not a fair fight; restore our sister her rightful ring!'

[Earniel]

Thursday, noon
Nîn-In-Eilph, Linthárvar

"Halindel!" Nardol called out, "a message arrived!"

Halindel came out of the house, her pen still in hand. Nardol expertly crossed the narrow rope-bridge that connected the houses and handed her the small message. Calaros came out to join them as well.

"A message? here?"

"Yes. A falcon just dropped this."

Halindel rolled the message open and read. A frown formed on her forehead.

"Strange, it's not from Eärniel," Halindel said, "but from someone named Mahtaliel. Claiming pirate ships have been spotted coming up the river, intending to strike at Tharbad."

"Pirates? They're a long way from their usual haunts... Curious. But I know the name Mahtaliel." Calaros said. "Her name came up once in a while when we were still trading with the Gwaith-I-MÃ*rdain. Never heard of her again afterwards. But then again we never heard of a lot of people afterwards. It's possible she survived."

"The note seems genuine enough." Halindel said quietly, thinking. She turned towards Nardol. "How are the changes going?"

"We're ahead of schedule but not yet near completing them. The reconstructions are almost finished, but the waterworks need more time."

"Pity," Halindel said, "they could already have been put to use... But it does not matter."

She handed the message back to Nardol.

"And what should we do with this?" Nardol asked, indicating the message.

"Tharbad has good defenses and enough guards," Calaros said. "The pirates don't know what they're getting themselves into. If Eärniel didn't reckon she'd be safe there, we'll be seeing her come this way in an hour or two. But I doubt it. The pirates are unlikely to ever get past the city; and if they're wise they'd know they'll never get past the marches with large boats. I doubt they even know we're here. We need not to worry."

"Indeed." Halindel added. "But we'll batter down the hatches just in case. Oh, and ask one of the swans if it wants to deliver something to Tharbad from me? In the light of recent events, I think Eärniel forgot to pack one or two things..."

[sun-star]

Thursday, before noon

Oreturion and Estelmo were sitting together when a servant entered and handed a note to Oreturion, saying that it had been brought by a falcon. Oreturion read the brief message, frowned, and passed it to Estelmo without a word.

When he had read it, the older man whistled. "We had intelligence of this, didn't we? I suppose we're ready for an attack?"

"Rumours only, but the King was adamant that we should make preparations nonetheless. We must let him know - where is he?"

"I think he had classes this morning - probably still at the university."

"Well," Oreturion said deliberately, "I shall go and find him. Will you inform the necessary people?"

"Of course."

[Rían]

Thursday and onward,
in the countryside outside of Tharbad

Tyaron took a moment to master his emotions, then turned back to face the brother and sister.

He's gonna run! thought Alagos in amazement, reading his friend's body language and suddenly putting together all of the clues he had been observing since Tyaron's return. What in the world happened on that trip?

Tyaron took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "And now it's time for goodbye," he said solemnly, just as he had planned. "I need to get this dagger back in time for the coming-of-age celebration, and after that, I'm going to head back to the havens. I need to find a place where I can fight against the wrongs that are still in this world, as Aegnor did. And like him, that is best done alone. That's what I'm cut out for, and it's time that I take it up again."

Turning to RÃ*an, he said gently (watching himself and admiring the scene), "I leave you in good hands. Your brother will take excellent care of you, and you of him, I'm sure." Stepping up to her, he kissed her lightly on the forehead and added, "I'll always treasure the memories of our friendship." RÃ*an just stared at him, taken completely by surprise at his proposed departure, and not sure what to say or do yet. She looked at Alagos with a perplexed and somewhat frightened expression on her face. Reading his sister's expression confirmed what he had been seeing in her since Tyaron's return.

Tyaron turned to Alagos to start the next scene in his departure. He embraced his long-time friend, ready to start the next farewell speech, but received an un-planned-for surprise when Alagos stood stiffly and made no move to return the embrace. Tyaron pressed on, though. "And I'll always treasure the memories of our friendship throughout the long years we travelled together and fought together, side by side. Take good care of your sister!" Pulling back, he looked at Alagos's face, and was surprised and rather uneasy at its expression.

"So, you're jilting my sister, then?" asked Alagos evenly. "If that's your plan, then you know what that forces me to do - and I'll do it, too!" Alagos pushed Tyaron's hands off of his shoulders with an expression of disgust, trying purposefully to goad Tyaron to lose his self-control. If he loses it, maybe he'll spill what happened on that trip - I know something must have happened to make him want so desperately to leave us now! thought Alagos, desperately casting about for ways to force his friend to speak, for he had rebuffed all of Alagos's previous attempts to talk about the trip.

Tyaron stood quietly for a moment, breathing hard, fighting the anger that was starting to well up in him, hot and wild. How dare Alagos use that repugnant word for what he was doing? Of course he wasn't jilting her - she never wanted him in the first place! He was just taking the noble way out, even though it hurt him. And Alagos was mocking him!

Tyaron took a deep breath. "What is this, brother? You kno ..."

Alagos interrupted angrily. "If you're leaving my sister in this dishonorable way, don't you DARE call me 'brother'!"

Tyaron clenched his jaw, struggling to push down the anger that was rising in him even higher and stronger now, dangerously close to overwhelming him. Alagos stared at him intently, trying to think of how to push him over the edge. He knew it was a dangerous ploy, but he felt that there was no other way to find out what had happened, and if he didn't find out, Tyaron would be gone forever.

"You know," repeated Tyaron, his teeth clenched in anger, "that she doesn't want my courtship and never did. I forced it on her, and you went along with it. We were both wrong, and I want to correct that wrong and then go do something that I can do right."

"RÃ*an," said Alagos to his sister, but not taking his eyes off of Tyaron, "do you want Tyaron to leave?"

"No," she replied.

Tyaron's mouth dropped open in sheer amazement as he broke the staring contest with Alagos to look at RÃ*an.

"I thought not," said Alagos. "Well?" he threw back at Tyaron. "Are you still going to jilt her?"

Tyaron's anger had a new direction now - the slender maiden looking at him out of big, dark eyes, who had thwarted him all of his life.

[Udukhaturz]

"How did you know we were here?" asked Captain Ollotarnon of Umbar.

The man of Captain Shah's patrol stood with his hands tied behind his back, a guard at each side, in front of Captain Ollotarnon and Captain Ulfast. The man had drunk too much wine and had fallen asleep under a giant tree in a dense thicket, which was only a tiny fraction of the great forest that lined the river on both sides for miles.

"We smelled you," the prisoner replied, trying to hide the smirking grin on his face.

"Smelled us?" Captain Ollotarnon shouted, totally baffled. "How did you do that?"

"Look, you dirty, ignorant barbarian savage, the people of Tharbad have mutated such astounding olfactory senses that they can scent smoke from two hundred kilometers away! We can smell a campfire five hundred kilometers as though it were right in front of us. Why, it is known by everyone that that Elendil could smell the reek of Númenor after it had sunk beneath the waves, and he walked upon the shores of Middle-earth! In fact, when there is a feast in Valinor, we can catch the wafting zephyrs of the delightful banquet food of the Valar."

"Amazing!" exclaimed Captain Ulfast. "No one in Harad can detect odors more than three to five kilometers!"

"Extraordinary!" cried Captain Ollotarnon. "How do you explain this?"

"Because we are better than you people, that is why," the man shrugged. "We can do lots of other things, too, that you primitives cannot. We can even hear the sounds of the flutes and guitars of the elves of Tol Eressea in their times of celebration, and listen for the seagulls cry as they fly about the shores, looking for holy elf garbage."

"We noticed your astounding abilities," Captain Ulfast murmured sadly. "Your men reached us in astronomically quick speed from Tharbad, and they were mounted on such unusually fast horses!"

"Yes, a journey of three hundred miles or more in one day is nothing for them," the man said smugly. "Actually, the sky is the limit for them."

"How do you do it?" the two captains asked in unison.

"We feed them a special kind of oats blended with charcoal, sulfur and saltpeter, throw in lots of cabbages, lentils and Elven-enchanted herbs. This mixture expands in the horses' intestines, producing gaseous fuel that when expelled creates a backwards thrust that propels the beast forward. The black smoke sometimes is a problem with those with sensitive noses, but the gains justify this minor inconvenience."

"Fascinating!" Captain Ollotarnon gasped. "We must develop this amazing method of horse propulsion!"

"You people are amazing!" exclaimed Captain Ulfast. "How do you explain the horse's method of traveling over the flooded river bottoms with water up to their hocks?"

"That is simple enough," the captive said. "We have built platforms constructed from the many trees in the vast forests along the river. We give the horses another feeding of special oats and they just lift off and fly over the flooded land. Someday we plan on sending fleets of them to the moon and colonizing other planets, and then it is on to the stars!"

"I am awed!" said Captain Ulfast. "We primitive savages in Harad are powerless against such methods. Our oliphants just eat regular food. Perhaps if I live to get back home, I will tell this secret to our people, and we could use this feed to make our mumaks fly."

"I think that is a very good idea, Captain Ulfast. Just think you could fly the oliphants over the battlefield, and when the gas limit reduces, the beasts could just fall down on the field and crush the enemy. Perhaps enough of them released simultaneously could break the enemy's walls. It would be a great way to end a siege, and our enemy would be hard-pressed to rid themselves of the corpses of the rotting mumaks." The captain pulled his beard, a musing look upon his face. "There should be a name for this. What could it be?"

"Biological warfare?" the captive suggested snidely.

"Great idea! I like the way you think! The dead mumaks will bring rats and disease to the besieged cities! We could fly the sickly ones over, and tie some lepers to the diseased mumak. That would clear the cities out quickly!" the two Captains echoed in unison.

"By the way," Captain Ulfast asked, "how did that causeway suddenly appear that was not marked on any maps?"

"We carried the components of giant pontoon bridges in our saddle bags. These pontoons are inflatable. We simply hooked tubes up to the horses and siphoned off the excess gas to inflate the pontoons. There you see before you the magnificent floating causeway."

"How did you know about Greek fire?" the Captain said, looking closely into the man's face.

"Old Numenorean secret. If you had been on the right side, you would have known about it," the captive said gleefully. "Do you not know the real reason why Numenor was sunk?"

"No, we do not!" the Captain said, all ears, walking closer to the young man. "Tell us the secret!"

"King Ar-Phazaron's engineers and scientists had developed what someday will be known as 'napalm.' He was given this information by his Advisor, whom some say was none other than the Dark Lord! When the Valar divined the workings of this cunning evil - I mean it was really evil! - they called on Eru and sank the island. Now, I will tell you something else if you come closer, Captain. This is for none other than your ears."

"Tell us! Tell us!" the man said, almost beside himself at learning of this new knowledge.

"Some say that the Dark Lord told Ar-Phazaron - through information that He had gotten from the first Dark Lord - you know about that little affair the first one had with Arien?" the captive said conspiratorially.

"Yes, we know, we know!"

"Anyway, Captains, it is told that the second Dark Lord gave Ar-Phazaron the secret of unlocking the power of the sun. With this information, Ar-Phazaron planned to knock out half of the Pelori Mountains and after that, it would be easy going for his men to storm Valimar."

"Gadzooks! We are undone!" Captain Ollotarnon bleated. "We know of no such thing!"

"If you ignorant barbarians ever catch up with us, you might be able to do something. Always remember, though, whatever your best thinkers devise, our men will always be ten steps ahead of them. That is because all of you are inferior!"

"By the way, I am not a dirty barbarian savage," Captain Ollotarnon said with a hurt look on his face. "My ancestors were from Númenor, the same as yours!"

"Yes, but it does not count with the like of you!" the young man chortled triumphantly.

"Captain Ollotarnon, I am truly impressed with this young man who seems to be a right stalwart young fellow. We have learned much from him, and I intend to take the knowledge back to Harad."

"Harad?" the Captain from Umbar thought evilly. "They might start getting too big for their britches if they have such knowledge and attack us! I can never let such potentially dangerous information ever reach Harad. The only one that knows about it, though, are Captain Ulfast and these two sailors. But they will never live to tell the tale!" he thought, a mad gleam appearing in his eye.

Captain Ollotarnon quickly unsheathed his sword and stabbed Captain Ulfast in the heart before he could draw his own blade, but not before Captain Ulfast's two men had dealt him a mortal blow. As the two captains lay dying on the deck of the ship, they embraced each other, and the young man, moved by this tragic plight, fell crying across their bloodied chests. Both captains were so impressed by this show of magnanimousness on the part of the young captive that they each adopted him as his son and named him their sole heir.

So it was that when the young man was rowed back to the great forest and freed, he had two gold medallions about his neck, glittering rings upon his fingers and a gold earring in one ear, and two large bags of gold hung upon each shoulder. The young Arnorian was already making plans to claim his inheritance in both Harad and Umbar. Inside his tunic, he held a marriage contract signed in proxy between him and Captain Ulfast's eldest daughter, who was a stunningly beautiful woman, rich beyond belief in her own right.

The men who rowed the rich young captive across, though, were exceptionally shrewd, and managed to steal one of Captain Shah's cavalry horses. Thus it was that the fleet sped back down the river, faster than the eye could perceive, their sails all billowing out, propelled by the black sulfuric smoke of one single flatulent Arnorian steed.

[Lady Marion Magdalena]

Interlude in the West.

Far to the west, beyond the normal plane of existence in a remote wing of the Halls of Mandos, Vaire the Weaver returned from her bi-centennial bathroom break and found a giant tangle in her most recent tapestry.

With a sigh of exasperation she sat down and began to unravel the problem area. This always happened when she was unable to keep a close eye on the weaving of history and while it was irritating, it was relatively simple to fix.

Simply unravel to this point-

Re-weave that encounter...

Change a few tid-bits here and there and voila!

The repaired tapestry showed a battle on a flooded river. The bad weather putting both sides at a disadvantage. With the river risen and spread over the near part of the surrounding plain the only pieces of ground not turned to mud were a thicket of trees on the north bank and the stone causeway that followed the river to the south.

It was an odd battle, Vaire reflected, with the pirates in their longboats turning to flee downriver, against the wind. Driven off by the hurriedly gathered defenders who seemed more concerned with pulling their injured men from the mud than with chasing their attackers.

Holding her shuttle at the ready Vaire sat back, relaxed and waiting to see the outcome...

[Udukhaturz]

"Captain Ulfast, all the men on all the ships signed a pact before we left port. It is time now for that pact to take effect."

"Captain Ollotarnon, the poison has already been administered to the wounded, and they are breathing their last at this moment."

The two men watched as the last man was given the cup of poison. The draught was a quick one and the man died as soon as it reached his mouth. On the flagship, the sailors were raising their cups of death in toast to their countries. The two captians watched as the men all fell to the deck, dead.

"To Umbar and to death!" Captain Ollotarnon said as he drained the cup of poison.

"To Umbar and Harad!" Captain Ulfast, a smile of triumph upon his face, said as he drained his cup to the dregs.

The ships drifted aimlessly upon the river, their passengers now only dead men.

Namo sat in the halls of Mandos scowling at his spouse Vaire. "I have issued the call to the spirits of the dead Umbarians and Haradrim who slew themselves rather than be dishonored by capture. It is my invitation for them to come here. Vaire," he said, looking at her sternly, "never again attempt to meddle in the affairs of destiny that were determined long ago by the One!"

[Lady Marion Magdalena]

Vaire gave her spouse a Look.

"I was not meddling. I merely repaired the record of events, it is you who meddled by calling the souls of mortals to your halls when you know that the One has decreed a different path for them. But do as you wish. I'm sure the forces from Tharbad would thank you for making their victory easier. Now go, hold your peace doomsman and welcome your souls whilst I attend to history. The pirates wounded many before they despaired and drank the poison and I must record the outcome."

Chastised for his unprovoked sharpness, Namo bowed to his wife and left her to her duty.

[Rían]

The families of Captain Ollotarnon and Captain Ulfast were wailing and beating their breasts in agony over the awful news, when an official-looking person walked up to their houses of mourning and gave an official rap on their doors.

The doors were opened by servants, and the officials marched in, demanding to see the widows. The widows looked up with misgiving and fear at the officials, and shook with fear as they were served with papers.

They opened the papers with dread and misgiving, and then screamed in terror and passed out. The trusted servants picked up the papers, scanned them, and sighed.

"What is it?" demanded the guests in hushed anticipation.

"A lawsuit from PETA for leaving a flatulent Arnorian steed alone and unattended on their ship!"

[Rían]

Thursday and onward,
in the countryside outside of Tharbad

Tyaron took a step closer to RÃ*an. This couldn't be happening - this wasn't how he had planned it - she had to let him go, or he would have to tell her what he did, and he could never live through the shame of that. "You NEVER..." he started angrily, then stop and shook himself and forced his fists to unclench and his voice to soften to a level that, in his opinion, was appropriate to address a woman. "You never wanted my advances, either here or in Gondolin - never! You fought me all the way when I forced this courtship on you! You don't want to marry me, and you never did!"

"She says she doesn't want you to go," interrupted Alagos. "And since she said that, you're bound by your word of honor to stay and court her for a year, unless and until she releases you earlier. You forced it on her without her wanting it and expected her to honor it. Now that the tables are turned, are you going to do any less? That's beneath you, Tyaron," said Alagos disdainfully, still trying to goad his friend into losing his temper.

Tyaron ignored Alagos - he was afraid that he would completely lose it if he answered him. He would work on RÃ*an instead - he HAD to get away from them now, while they didn't know what he had done...

He found it hard to talk when all his senses were telling him to strike out, but again, he forced the anger down and appealed to her. "RÃ*an, I'm so sorry I did that to you - I should have never forced the courtship on you like that. It was wrong of me, and I ask your forgiveness. And I ask you to release me from this courtship - we both know it would never work - it was never meant to be. You've never felt anything for me but friendship - and that's what I feel for you now, too."

"Don't let him go, RÃ*an, he's lying!" shouted Alagos, determined to stop his friend from running away. "Hold him to his word!"

RÃ*an looked back and forth between the two angry men, not quite sure what to do. She had never, EVER seen them disagree like this. Something was deeply wrong here, and she was trying to determine what it was while surrounded by the storm of their angry feelings and words. Something told her it was very important to find out ...

Alagos saw that Tyaron was successfully gaining control over his temper again and struck out once more. He pushed Tyaron's shoulder and mocked, "You coward! You would lie to a woman to get out of your pledge?" But that wasn't good enough - Tyaron was still controlling his temper, although Alagos could see that he was right on the edge. He must want really desperately to get away! thought Alagos, "It must be something against his honor somehow! He decided to try one more thing - apparently Tyaron could ignore a personal insult in his desperation to get away, but could he stand one directed at RÃ*an?

Alagos looked at RÃ*an with an imploring look in his eyes, as if to say, "Just trust me!", and then took the plunge.

"Oh, come on, Tyaron - just stay and court her. She'll probably never marry otherwise - she's no prize, after all! - we both know she's a bit slow on the uptake and she certainly is no young maiden in her first bloom anymore ..."

That did it. Tyaron completely lost it. He aimed a blow at Alagos, and although it was partially blocked by Alagos's quick reactions, it still connected hard. Alagos hit the ground, but managed to quickly roll and avoid the follow-up blow, aided by the fact that Tyaron was so angry that he could hardly see straight. Spitting out the blood that was welling in his mouth, Alagos leapt up as RÃ*an screamed out, "Stop! STOP! STOP IT!" and grabbed Tyaron's arm.

"Let go!" he yelled at her, trying to shake her off without hurting her. "He insulted you!" He yelled furiously at Alagos, "How DARE you insult her! How DARE you do that! I'll KILL you!"

"ME insult her?" Alagos spat back, and then played his guess. "YOU'RE the one that insulted her, you cad, you coward, you oath-breaker! Tell her what happened when you were gone! TELL her!"

Alagos's guess that something happened was right on the mark, and his words drove straight to Tyaron's heart like a sword. Before he knew what he was saying, Tyaron cried out to RÃ*an, "I was with a prostitute! I was with a prostitute when I was courting you! Don't you see why I'm trying to get away from you now?"

Alagos stared at him in horror. Of all the things that he thought Tyaron might have done wrong, that one would have never occurred to him as even remotely possible. As the words sank in - a man courting his sister went with a prostitute?! - Alagos saw red, and with a cry of fury, he ran up to Tyaron and hit him as hard as he could. Tyaron, putting up no defense for the blow he felt he fully deserved, fell heavily to the ground, stunned and senseless.

[Udukhaturz]

When the fighting in the dungeon was at last over and all the guests except Lilaenwen had gone, Maethor freed Lilly and took her upstairs to the red salon. He poured her a goblet of wine and brought it to her as she sat on the divan.

"My lady, I understand you have shown an appreciation for the art in my bedchambers. You have admirable tastes, Lilaenwen, and are obviously an art connoisseur the same as I. Therefore, I am giving all the paintings to you. Sell them in the market, give them away, throw them in the river; it matters not to me. I no longer have need of them. My men are at this time loading the portraits in the wain in which you will ride back to your home after you have finished your goblet of wine."

Lilly looked at him in surprise, almost shock. "Thank you, Maethor. I am in awe of your marvelous collection."

"Enjoy the collection, Lilaenwen. It is yours. Now it is farewell."

She rose to her graceful feet, and he, taking her hand, brought it to his lips and kissed it.

"Farewell, Maethor," she said.

Before Ulfang left with Lilly, Maethor handed him a note, his notice of resignation at the university with a quickly jotted comment, "Chancellor, if you ever should have need of me, you know how to reach me."

When Ulfang had returned after taking Lilaenwen home and delivering the message to the Chancellor, Udu called his five men and Tatyana together in the red salon.

"Ulfang, I name you successor to me to rule over my domain in the East. You other four men are to rule with him as his advisors. For your long years of service to me, I give you my wife Tatyana and two other of my wives back in the East. To you other men, I give you two of my wives each." He then named which wife was to go to which man.

"Pack provisions and such things as you wish to take with you. I will gather up what I wish to take and will be back with you in a few minutes."

He left the group in the salon, went to his bedchambers where he packed a small bag, strapped his long sword to a harness on his back, armed himself with his daggers and knives and his short sword. After he was satisfied, he went to his chest and took out a long, black cowled cloak and cast it about himself.

When all was in readiness for their departure, Maethor and his group stood outside the house. Maethor bowed his head and said words in an esoteric language: "Let no stone be left standing."

"Torch the building," he ordered the men. "Set fires upstairs and down, and let the house burn to the ground."

Maethor mounted his horse and rode down the street, halted his animal and turned back to see the flames rising, shooting out of the roof of the house. He waited there a long while and heard people waking up, screaming at the sight of the fire. Even at this distance, he could hear the great crash when the house caved in and crumpled to a burning mass of ruin.

Intoning the proper spells, he vanished from all human sight, and only his saddled and bridled horse could be seen galloping away from Tharbad through the mists.

[Rían]

Thursday and onward,
in the countryside outside of Tharbad

"You idiot!" yelled Rian at Alagos as she bent over Tyaron's unconscious body. "Why did you do that? One look at his eyes would have told you that they weren't together as man and wife!"

Alagos looked at his sister in disbelief. "You don't care, then? It doesn't matter to you? He can do anything but sleep with another woman while courting you and you're fine with it?"

"No, I'm not 'fine' with it - I think it was wrong of him. But I do things that are wrong, too, Alagos - and so do you. Something has changed in him since that trip, and I like the change, and that's why I don't want him to go. I want to see if it will finally work out, after all these years."

"And besides," she continued quietly, "it's partly my fault."

"What he did was NOT your fault! Everyone is responsible for what they choose to do!"

"Yes, of course they are - but my choices, that I was responsible for, made it easier for him to choose to do something that was wrong. People don't live in isolation, Alagos - we have great power to influence others for good - or evil ... I need to ask his forgiveness for how I've wronged him."

"Well, he'd better ask you for your forgiveness, too," muttered Alagos, still angry at his friend's betrayal of his sister.

She stroked Tyaron's cheek softly. "That's up to him..."

[Gordis]

Early hours of Thursday, the Observatory.

The wind howled outside, the drops of rain lashed furiously the roof and windows of the small Observatory building. Oblivious to elements, Aiwendis sat motionless, hugging herself tightly, her goblet forgotten on the table.

The sound of the opening door tore her from her reverie. The Morgul Lord entered, took of his long hooded cloak and wiped the droplets of rain from his face.

He was in a pensive mood, as always, when the wind carried the smell of the sea. Noticing tears on Aiwendis's lashes, he asked her gentler than usual: "What is the matter, Gordie?"

Something broke inside her, and she wept on his chest.

"My love, it is unbearable. You have changed so much, the mere thought of the Ring is ruining your soul! Already you have ordered poor Lilly tortured. How could you?"

The pale King sighed in reply. He was not a little fond of the charming Lilly and regretted his earlier decision.

Encouraged, Aiwendis drew him closer and whispered into his ear. "I can't stand being used as a bait in your trap. I don't want to be married to another man, be he the High King himself! I love you, you alone!"

She wept harder, shaking with sobs. "I hate this place, I can't stand it anymore. Let us go South to Umbar, where we used to be so happy! Let us abandon the bleak North. Take me there, I beg you!"

The Morgul Lord closed his eyes. He was tired of playing the Chancellor. Moreover, he hated Elves, oh how he hated them! He was not used to bow his head to anybody. At length, it has become taxing.

Lately he had another vivid dream. He saw the One Ring, buried in the river's mud, making its slow progress downstream... to the Sea. If the dream were prophetic indeed, then it would make its way to Osgiliath and then to Pelargir...eventually. He had to wait for it in the South.

His decision finally made, he bent to Aiwendis and kissed her quivering lips. "I love you Gordie, I will do as you wish. To Umbar I shall take you."

She was so happy, she had nothing to say, only hugged him tightly.

***
Before the first light, three tall figures, wrapped in dark cloaks, made their way over the bridge. They were followed by several pack horses, heavily laden with gold and precious gems taken from the secret dungeons of the Tower. Sapthan had filled his saddlebags with the best esoteric books from the Library.

They crossed the bridge and were out of sight of the Gondorean guards, when the tallest of the riders suddenly stopped and turned his horse facing North. He lifted his hand and uttered a spell in the Dark Tongue. Trice he cried. A flash of searing lightning illuminated the old Minas Aran Tower. A sudden explosion followed, and the Tower tumbled in riven fragments to the ground with all of its turrets, and vaults, and hidden stairs, its dungeons, its Scroptorium and the books of lore and whisdom - all perished forever.

Nodding in dark satisfaction, the Morgul Lord and his followers turned their steeds and disappeared in darkness.

[Lady Marion Magdalena]

Shah watched as the two combatants glared at each other through the shower of sparks, weapons still connected and aloft. As he was standing in the shadows observing this memory, there was the silver figure standing next to him, watching as well.

"You surprised me." The words echoed out from the figure at his side.

"Guess I should've known better." He turned to look at her, "I thought I told you to remember your armor come time to help us."

Her leather apron was shredded, exposing the silver of the chainmail beneath. Her hair was coming loose from its braid and spectacular bruises were forming on her face. She was appeared dripping wet, and blood was mixing with the water pooling around her feet. In her hand left hand she held a giant mace, the head covered in gore.

"There wasn't time." They turned their attentions back to their younger selves.

They had lowered the improvised weapons and Mahta was eyeing him warily, "You blocked me."

"I was expecting it. I guess Erestor won the bet."

"Bet?"

"He and another elf. They sent me here, I overheard them betting that you would give the first blow."

"Hm."

"How do you stand being in here during the summer?" The heat inside the forge was oppressive.

Mahta frowned, "It shouldn't be this warm..."

The vision dissolved around them and they were left standing in the center of a weighty nothingness that shrank inwards, constricting the senses and making breath impossible-
And then they were falling up, down, sideways, in all directions at once; He was replaced in her vision by swirling strands of polished gold and falling gems and coming down to crush her
one
giant
hand...

"Professor?" Mahta's eyes snapped open, even as she struck out without registering who it was standing above her.

Ignatius dodged the blow and stood to the side, watching as his former teacher awoke more fully and took in her surroundings. The dining room of the public school had been set up as a temporary infirmary for those who had been hurt fighting downriver. Fortunately there hadn't been too many, most of the injuries were from accidents caused by the nasty weather, but the men from the original patrol and a few of those who had been in the forefront of the reinforcements had caught it bad.

"Ignatius?"

"You're back in Tharbad, Professor. It's all over."

"What happened?"

"Story's a bit muddy."

"Too much rain..."

"Well yes, that too."

"Shah?"

"Arrow to the gut. He'll be fine, Fionne and Doc have been taking care of him."

"The boys?"

"Will still be annoying you in class. Though they did manage to gain quite a few new scars."

"How many dead?"

"Not near as many as there might've been."

"Not an answer."

"You won't be getting one till you're better yourself, Professor."

"I did something stupid, didn't I?"

"Well... they said you went a little... berserk. Wreaked havoc with the pirates, but let yourself get pretty beat up."

"Oh. ... . But the pirates are gone?"

"They took poison when they saw they were losing."

Ignatius watched her process this information, visibly relaxing once it sunk in. Remebering why he had woken her in the first place he picked up the mug he had brought in with him, "Doc says you're to drink this, Professor. It'll help you sleep."

Mahta nodded and let him give it to her, "Give him my thanks." She said, and drifted back to sleep.

[Serenoli]

Before he left, the Chancellor had to tie quite a few loose ends, and one of them was Jas. He released him from the memory spell, all things considered. After all, he had revenged himself sufficiently with that frog spell... a slight smile crossed his face at the memory... and besides, it served no purpose. Enough tongues would wag at their secret departure, and the ravings of a perpetually drunk Professor would count least amongst them.

Back at the University, Jas's mind cleared instantly, and he remembered everything... almost. As he went over the hazy recollections of the last two days, he concluded, not unnaturally, that it had all been a result of excessive drinking. His face reddening at the thought of the spectacle he had made of himself, and rendered as shy as he had always been, Jas found himself for some time, speechless. Eventually, he murmured his profuse apologies to her, and his thanks, and was glad, when the elf accepted his explanation, and left. She was lovely and had been very kind to him, but his embarrasment had been too acute for comfort.

A few minutes later, when he was more composed, he remembered his old dependable friend Bumbledore. He found a vintage in the cellar, one stored and hidden in his private collection for years- it came from his father's vineyards, and he wondered if Bumble would be able to guess it. Smugly, he thought, very likely not.

He made his way to his friend's apartments, and found him just awake, with his blue eye wide-open and shining, a cheery smile on his broad face, and a funny anecdote on his lips. Already, as he forced the cork carefully, Jas was thinking of how the two of them would laugh over Jas' recent adventures. And, maybe they could take the donkeys out for a race later at night. Jas had not forgotten losing to Bumble last time thay had raced, and was determined to win this time at least. He smiled as he accompanied Bumble on a second breakfast. It was good to be back in his old routine... very good.

And here we leave our two professors, sipping wine, and planning their new adventures. I have heard that the two managed to buy into a partnership on a good vineyard, which let them retire from the University. But that was many years later... I am also exceedingly glad to inform the reader, that Jas never in his life encountered a Nazgul again. And for those who are wondering, yes, Jas did win the donkey race that evening.

***


As Tolvadok left Udu's house that night, his thoughts and emotions were varied. What he knew for sure, was that he could not stay with his fellow-Nazgul anymore. Khamul's words had come as a shock, but he had had enough presence of mind not to give in to his first impulse. Udu and Khamul together would really have killed him off. The later fight, when he had not even been alone proved that.

But, now he knew what he had refused to see for so long, that he and the others were no longer united in loyalty to the Master. They would find the Ring, but never restore it to its rightful owner, and as such, they were as much his enemies as the Elves he hated so much. He would leave Tharbad and find Sauron, and then, the Dark Lord would give him the rank he deserved for his loyalty.

He packed that night, and dressed all in black again, tall and intimidating, he prepared to leave. As his horse passed the Red Herring, however, a new line of thoughts opened up. Yerri... he could yet be happy with her, if he chose. And, he did choose. She would not be here on Arda for long, not as long as himself, but he could have a life of happiness with her... and then, when she left, devote himself, mind and soul, to those who had driven away the purpose in his life. Once decided, the task before him was not easy. He had to persuade Yerri to leave her life behind, and come with him, and she resisted strongly at first. But he persevered, and then, she did come.

At the dead of night, Tolvadok, or Girithron, as he was called for as long as his loving wife lived, carried off his treasure far far away. Yerri did find the truth one day, but she never left him, not until Death carried her away, and Tolvadok resumed his former lonely life, until he was restored once more to his Master.

But their happiness, though unlikely and short-lived, was very great, and more than ever, the memory of that happiness sustained whatever was left good in him for many long years. It is not known whether he ever did die, and so maybe even now, his spirit wanders the earth, and maybe, popped into my head one day, so I could tell his story. But, he told me no more, then, for I know naught else of him. Here ends the story of Tolvadok.

[CrazySquirrel]

No one could tell for sure what happened to Lilaenwen after that faithful night, when the Library Tower went down in flames, and the Chancellor and his fair daughter disappeared for good along with some of the new Professors and students.

Some say they saw a beautiful green-eyed woman, with her hair shorn at the level of the neck, buying a red wig in the Valinor shop on the Menotar avenue. Some noticed a lonely flame-haired rider in a mink coat who left Tharbad by the East Gate carrying a big roll of canvas, as if it were some paintings. One scullery maid even said that the rider was a woman, whose stunningly beautiful face was wet from tears.

Actually, the day was so laden with horror, wonder and sorrow, that nobody really paid attention to things they would have usually gossiped about for days on end.

The Nine knew that she had left the constantly drunk Buz, and successfully avoided all the others for two thousand years, when she was called to Service by the Captain. Apart from that, few beings could tell, even her fellow nazgul.

There was this strange tale of the immortal Readhead Queen in the East, who became famous for hunting Elves and torturing them in the most cruel ways. One orc in Minas Morgul was caught telling his buddy that Lilaenwen the Sixth had kept a full harem of male elves for her private entertainment. It was clearly a pernicious lie, and the culprit was drawn and quartered and finally sent to the pot for dinner of his company.

When the Master returned, Lilly was sent to Dol Guldur, where she continued her Elf hunts, much to the Lord Khamul's satisfaction. What bugged him, though, was her habit to run unclad and unmounted through the woods shrieking horribly "I am a Crazy Mirkwood Squirrel". That habit, Khamul maintained, proved her mental instability, and lessened the awe and respect due to the Dark Lord's High Nazgul. So Lilly was transferred back to Minas Morgul and lived there in peace, drinking and flirting with the others till the very END.

[Rían]

Thursday and onward,
in the countryside outside of Tharbad

As Tyaron slowly regained consciousness, Alagos leaned over and whispered to RÃ*an, "I'll get out of earshot, but I'll stay within sight in case you need me."

"I'll be fine," said RÃ*an, as she shooed her brother away.

Tyaron slowly opened his eyes and looked up at RÃ*an. He smiled, and then as the memories came back, his smile turned wary and watchful. He sat up and rubbed his head while he gathered his thoughts. RÃ*an waited patiently for him to stop seeing stars, and gathered her own thoughts.

"Well," he finally said, and slowly stood up, steadying himself against the rock that had so recently met his head, "I guess you see why I need to leave you now. I didn't want you to find out, but I guess it's better this way - you won't regret my leaving now. I will not seek your forgiveness for what I did, for it is beyond forgiveness."

RÃ*an said matter-of-factly, "Isn't it up to me if it's beyond my forgiveness or not?"

Tyaron paused for a moment, and then said quietly, "But I can't even forgive myself ..."

"That's because you're pretty arrogant," she said, again in a matter-of-fact voice. "But that still doesn't let you off from asking my forgiveness, for you certainly wronged me."

Tyaron's chin had jerked up at the first sentence, his eyes angry, but then his eyes lowered again. "You're right," he said levelly. He shook his head. "I can't seem to do anything right around you," he added in an ironic voice. "But you're quite right - I do need to ask your forgiveness."

He lifted up his head again and looked her in the eyes, honestly and openly and, for the first time, as an equal. "I am sorry beyond words what I did to you. I'm sorry for all of the hurt my arrogance and pushiness has caused you. I most certainly do not deserve it, but I humbly ask for your forgiveness."

"I forgive you," she said simply but sincerely. "Yes, you've been arrogant and pushy, but that's not all you've been in all the years I've known you - you've also been honest and true and kind and noble and good and brave and ..."

He started to protest, but she stamped her foot angrily. "Will you just shut up and listen to me?" she said, her eyes flashing.

That got a rueful smile out of him, and he stopped his protests.

"... and funny, and I love your laugh, and I love how you sing. So yes, it was very wrong, but yes, I forgive you, heartily and completely."

"And now I need to ask you for your forgiveness," she continued quietly. "For I have wronged you, too." He looked quizzically at her, and she took a deep breath and continued. "I guess I am rather dense," she said, and waved off his protests impatiently. "I didn't figure out that you liked me until I overheard some of the girls talking about it. Then the next time I saw you, I ... well, I acted a little more friendly towards you than before, and watched your reaction, and ... well, I liked it, and I liked the feeling of power it gave me, and I liked that it made the other girls angry."

She paused, biting her lip, then forced herself to continue. "And I used that power over you, to manipulate you as I wanted to - keeping you close enough to stay interested so the other girls would be jealous and I would feel good, but far enough so that you wouldn't propose. I ... I'm not quite sure why - at first, I just wasn't ready for marriage, but then ... my father died, and ... and I saw what it did to my mother, and ..."

She looked up at him imploringly. "This isn't an excuse - what I did, I chose to do - but I hope it explains it a little - I just became so afraid to get really close to a man, because I was afraid that I might lose him, as my mother lost my father."

Tyaron reached out his arms towards her in compassion, for he knew how much her father's death had affected her, but RÃ*an shook her head and held him off. "No, no - let me finish - so I used you, intentionally and cruelly, for years, for my own selfish purposes - for pride, and to stave off my fears instead of dealing with them. And for that, I am truly, truly sorry, for if I had given you an answer one way or another, you wouldn't have been in this perpetual state of frustration, and it wouldn't have been so easy for you to have done what you did."

"What I did was my own fault," Tyaron said firmly. "And I can see why you reacted as you did - the loss of your father was a terrible blow."

"Yes, I know, but what I did was my own fault, and that helped you to do what you did - oh, I'm not excusing either one of us, I'm just trying to make sense of what happened. And I am so sorry for wronging you, and I humbly ask for your forgiveness, although I don't deserve it."

"You have it, most sincerely," he said, taking her hands in his.

They were quiet for a moment, and then RÃ*an asked shyly, "So, will you stay and court me now? I'd like to get to know you better ... what you did was wrong, but it changed you - you're different - and I'd like to get to know you better."

"I will stay," answered Tyaron. "And you're different, too - and I'd like to get to know you better." He paused a second, then dropped her hands and bowed formally. "Hello, my name is Tyaron - I used to be arrogant all of the time, but now I'm only arrogant some of the time. It's nice to meet you!"

RÃ*an smiled and bowed graciously back. "And my name is RÃ*an - I used to be manipulative and rather dense, and I fall out of trees - I'm afraid I'm still rather slow on the uptake and I still fall out of trees, but at least I'm not manipulative all of the time now." Her smile deepened. "And it's very nice to meet you," she added, looking into his eyes. And then they were in each other's arms, holding each other tight, although if asked, neither one could have said who moved towards the other first.

"You're not dense, RÃ*an," he said softly, stroking her hair. "You may not pick up on mere facts as quickly as some, but you have a heart wisdom and insight that few others have, and that's far more important."

"Well, I'm glad you think so, because that's the way I am, and I'm afraid it's not changing anytime soon!" she said, unconsciously taking "her" braid of his hair in her hand and then pressing in close to him and playing with it, like she used to do so long ago in Gondolin.

Alagos, a smile playing over his fair elven features, decided that it was time for him to take a walk.

[Gordis]

The game is dead.

Here is the memorial

The game poster
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a337/Gor-Dis/poster2.jpg

The poster legends
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a337/Gor-Dis/Postleg2.jpg