Chapter One:
It has been long since the quest of the one ring, it has been quite long since the fall of Mordor. After this Great War many were destroyed. The power of the nineteen rings created many splendid things but with the destruction of the One Ring all of these things also fell from existence. The Fellowship had broken and the living parted their separate ways. The time of the Elves had long since passed and there were little of them left in the land of Middle Earth. Out of the nine members of the fellowship only three still remain. Legolas the Elf who is heir to the throne of the forest of Mirkwood. After the death of his dear friend Aragorn Legolas chose it best to leave the land of Middle Earth and wander the other realms. This is how it came to pass that he traveled to the thriving and growing land of Oirthia. Gimli son of Gloin, a dwarf lord in the Lonely Mountain was blessed with unnatural long life and began to look elsewhere in Middle Earth for a home for his people, which there were not now many. After the fall of the Great Thorin Oakenshield many of the dwarves began to disperse and live their lives among the race of men. Gimli became quite strong but his lust for Mithrill had grown over the years and he became a sort of tyrant although his intentions themselves were nothing but good. Gandalf the White once known as the Grey is a wizard of the highest order. After the fall of Isengard and its leader Saruman he then began to govern the ruined land. Gandalf still befriended all of the races excluding Orcs and Goblins, which had been long since driven from the land. He often leaves his throne to explore Middle Earth once more, but now his wise eyes are set on the lands around that of Middle Earth. In particular he has his eyes set on the distant land of Oirthia which he believes to be much like his own land. Then there is Elrond and elf of great worth. He fought in the first coming of the darkness and watched the taking of the ring and the failing of the strength of man. He was there when the ring passed to Frodo son of Drogo and he now leads a great council in the rebuilt city of Xicqrewiyl. Many seek his counsel and those who seek refuge and peace often occupy his house. All who speak with Elrond heed his words carefully. With all of this said the story shall now begin. There was a great time of peace that fell over the lands after the destruction of the One Ring. It took place for a great forty-five years. During this time the glory of Middle Earth had diminished and people were moving to a new land. The land of Oirthia, thriving and beautiful it was full of majestic creatures and differed little from that of Middle Earth. But the peace could no longer be kept. The race of Orcs and Wargs were once again multiplying and not only were there more of them but they grew and gained power. These creatures were no longer known as a race but as a shadow in the deep. They hail in the crater of Demles which no fairer creature dare enters. Their darkness was beginning to spread across the land and the only thing that kept them at bay were the great forces of the Dwarfs surrounding the forests Xicqrewiyl. But what was not known to the dwarves and the other races was that darker forces than that of Orcs and Wargs were at work. There were seven great gems buried in the land around them. None had ever been found until the race of the dragons found one of them buried in an abandoned Dwarf mine. The finding of the gem had created a great disturbance in the land and it could be said that in the south a red light, almost as red as the color of blood and greed, could be seen glowing in the darkness. The races of the men and dwarves did not see this as a disturbance but the race of the Elves and the Wizards new better then to push it aside as some pitiful folly. The land of which was inhabited by the Elves, Xicqrewiyl, was lush and green. The trees were tall and their rough exterior seemed almost to shimmer a bright green as the sun danced across its surface from the cracks in the boughs above. The ground was covered with the leaves of summer, in this land it was custom for the leaves to fall in the summertime covering the land with a rainbow of colors. Bright voices and happy songs could be heard throughout Xicqrewiyl. The sound, having been followed would lead you to the city of Seulbre. This is where the elves lived their lives when they were not out exploring the vast lands of Oirthia. Among these elves there was no leader, no king, but there was a counsel which had been formed when Elrond, wisest of the elves moved to the vast city in search of something, which he would never speak of. But today on this particular day there was quite a disturbance among the Elves who lived among the trees of Xicqrewiyl. There could be no singing heard for miles and the laughter and soft whispers that could normally be heard were nowhere to be found. Instead it was a day of harsh and brutal silence. The Trees seemed to be leaning in sadness and there was an absence of sound, not even the animals of the forest dared to make a sound. As the forest grew deeper the beautifully crafted homes of the Elves could be seen. But there were none of its inhabitants to be found for miles around. Although the city seemed almost deserted there was a great bustle around the house of Elrond. Many of the Elves and Fairies gathered round listening to the arguing among the counsel, which was being held. "This particular meeting is of a grave stature." Elrond began in a loud tone. He had a young pale face, as most Elves do, but his eyes held a deep wisdom of the ages. His hair was adorned in an ornate style of braids. His hair was dark enough to match the great bark of the trees that surrounded him. He wore a seemingly silver outfit, which had sown into it the beautiful language of the Elves. As the light glistened across his outfit it seemed to change colors to match its surroundings. The arguing ceased and a hush fell over the counsel. There were Elves of high importance there. There were 12 seated in a large circle. Most of the Elves were men and they were all tall and proud. A few were women who sat uncomfortably in their long traditional white Elven dresses. A few of the men wore capes and quivers, but one of them was seated next to Elrond and wore a hood over his head, covering his face, but his eyes seemed to glow in the light of the forest. "I am displeased to say that there is darkness stirring in this fair land. It is just as I feared when I first arrived in Oirthia." Whispers began among the counsel. "The dragons have come across a precious stone and there is evil brewing the land of Demles. Even as we speak the Village of Zremdre as we call it in the Elven speech is being over taken by the great shadow of Orcs and Wargs." Elrond was interrupted by one of the male Elves. "Is this your grave danger?" He stood and addressed the counsel. "Wargs and Orcs? They are hardly a threat to our mighty bows." His face was proud, he was a younger elf and not as wise as Elrond. He had short white hair that barely reached his shoulders. His face was stern and he had a proud look about him. "Reicu you know as well as the rest of us that trouble has been stirring for some time in Demles." One of the older girls brushed her hair from her face impatiently. She glared at him angrily with her violet eyes. Her hair was dark brown in the shadows but it shined a brilliant gold in the sun. Her hair was wavy and curled over her shoulders. It was pulled back from the sides into a braid which lay neatly on her back. Reicu ignored the girl's objection. "And this stone you speak of? Can it not be destroyed?" He added. Elrond simply shook his head sideways in response, overcome with memories from the counsel long ago in Rivendell. "Then I say we keep it here. The Orcs and Wargs stand no chance against our mighty bows and swords!" There were a few cheers of agreement from a couple of the other male elves. "That would be fine if there were not six other stones, which would cause greater destruction." The cloaked elf next to Elrond shot in. "I say that this is all folly! It is a stone, what harm could a stone possibly do?" One of the other Elves put in. "About as much damage as a ring." An old man in gray rags entered the counsel standing proudly next to Elrond. Murmurs flew amongst the crowd at the mention of the ring. Such talk was not usually permitted in their pleasant land. "These stones each represent one of the dark counsels of this land. If they are brought together, who knows what peril it may cause to your land? Not just your land but the land of all the races here." "What are we supposed to do then?" Another young girl queried anxiously. She had a regal heir to herself and her green eyes shone proudly under the pale light. She had oddly fashioned light brown hair and a blue elven dress, under which she wore a white shirt and pants to match. She had a band of silver wrapped on her forehead. "Good question!" The old man smiled at her. "These crystals must be collected then sent back to the land of Middle Earth from whence they came. If they are cast into the darkness inside the Misty Mountains or even in the darkness of Mirkwood or Falgorn." "And what have you to say? You are just an old man, a withered stranger among our counsel." Reicu grew angered. "I say we attack the growing army at its source! Into the crater of Demles!" "Reicu...sit down..." The girl who earlier scolded him said through her teeth. "Liera leave me be!" He yelled at her. "I think that it is best that you listen to your friend there." The old man watched Reicu with amusement being reminded of one of his old companions. "You are an outsider and you should have no say in our Elven matters." "I should say quite different." The hooded man stared at Reicu. Reicu felt his heart pound and for a moment he almost stepped down from his speech. "This is Gandalf the white of the counsel of the wise from Middle Earth. He is the new leader of Isengard hailed from the temple of Orthanc." Silence again fell over the group. "Then I suppose that it is a good idea that we listen to him." Liera spoke before Reicu could get the chance. Reicu sat down feeling quite shunned and foolish. "Forgive him master Elrond and you Gandalf. He is young, not as wise as you and your counterparts." She bowed. "Then we should begin the search as soon as possible." Elrond paced into the center of the circle. "Gandalf shall lead the search since he is the wisest and has the most knowledge about the whereabouts of the stones. Gimli and Legolas shall accompany him as well as four other members of our own counsel." "Who is this Gimli and Legolas?" The girl with the wild light brown hair queried leaning forward. (Her name is Danel for the record). "Gimli is the new leader of the Lonely Mountain tribe of Middle Earth. He was present during the quest of the ring and should prove of great help to us now." "The Lonely Mountain?" Reicu rose again. "You are going to send a Dwarf on this quest? What nerve have you Elrond!" The counsel exchanged weary whispers most of them in prejudice to the race of the dwarves. Danel and Liera exchanged glances uneasily then turned their attention back to Elrond who was quieting the group. "Yes, he is a dwarf, but he is going on this quest and if you do not like that Reicu then there is no need for you to go along." Reicu quieted and looked down at the ground, ashamed that he had upset Elrond. "As I was saying, Gimli is going along as well as Gandalf and Legolas." "You still have not told us who this Legolas is." Liera said, as the counsel again became silent. "I shall save Elrond the trouble." The cloaked Elf stood. "I am Legolas, heir to the throne of Mirkwood. I was also part of the fellowship of the ring." He pulled down his hood and exchanged glances with each member of the counsel. Gandalf smiled as he watched the counsel's eyes widen. Legolas was a tall elf with long hair that was a bright blonde color, almost white. He had two braids on the side of his head, which were pulled back into one larger braid. Then behind his ears he had two more braids, which fell, over his shoulders with the rest of his hair. His body was covered with a silver-ish cloak resembling the fabric, which was worn by Elrond. "You may sit down now Legolas." Elrond then turned to the counsel once more. The first task of this," he exchanged a glance with Gandalf and Legolas, "fellowship will be to recover the stone from the last of the dragon race. Then it should be easy enough to collect the six other stones. Beware when you leave the land of Oirthia because your presence will no longer be shadowed under the veil, which wraps around this land. The shadow will follow and will attempt to take the stones. Hopefully we are not to late and the shadow has not headed yet towards Toqqwako. It is now time to choose the remainder of members who shall go on this quest." The counsel was silent. Danel and Liera exchanged glances and then stood at the exact moment. "We will go Lord Elrond." Danel smiled reassuringly. "No one is quite as skilled as we are in the arts of war." Liera added. "And I will go too!" Reicu stood from his chair. "You, Reicu, wish to go on this quest even though a dwarf will be in the company?" Elrond gave a mocking smile. "I realize that, but I will not let my sister and her little friend go alone." He acknowledged Liera. "Even if she is older than I am I feel it in my heart that I should protect her." Liera smiled hearing this convinced that her brother had made his first intelligent assumption of the day. She was, in fact relieved that he decided to go. Danel on the other hand was not quite as pleased as her counterpart. "I feel that it is my duty to serve this fair land and its people at whatever cost. I shall accompany your fellowship Elrond." An Elf with dark brown hair pulled back into one large braid stood. He stared at the eyes of each seated member of the counsel. He looked once at Danel and then his eyes fell back at Elrond. "Are you sure you want to go along Breonet?" Elrond was unsure at this choice. Breonet was not exactly recognized for his bravery and strength. "I will not take no for an answer." Breonet said with a certain uneasiness in his voice. Elrond looked at his comrades and then sighed. "Then it is settled. The company shall be Gandalf, Gimli, Legolas, Liera, Danel, Reicu, and Breonet." He nodded to each member. "I wish you luck. You shall set out at dawn tomorrow when Gimli arrives. Be well rested and well fed, for the weeks to follow will be hard times and I can guarantee that this will be your last well-slept night for a long while. At least until you return."
* * *
The first signs of dawn curled across the trees on the borders of Xicqrewiyl. The sky looked grim and clouds were darkening the sky in the south. The company left early after the arrival of Gimli the Dwarf. He was stout in stature and had a long beard, which was slightly graying. He wielded a large metal axe, which seemed very old. All the Elves brought their bows and a quiver stuffed with enough arrows to last an entire day of hard battle. Legolas carried two curved daggers that rested on the sides of his quiver. Liera and Danel bore each a long sword. Danel's sword was blue and the reflection that it gave off appeared as if it were water. Liera's sword had a black blade, which gave off a red-ish glow. It had Elven inscriptions born into its side. Gandalf, along with his wooden staff (which was accustom for a wizard to carry) carried a long sword at his side. Its name was Glamdring. It was fashioned by the Elves of Middle Earth and had slain many Orcs in its time. It glowed a faint blue when goblins and Orcs were near. Reicu had his bow and a small dagger, which was kept next to his Elven boots. Breonet was perhaps the only Elven member without a bow. He instead carried a hard metal staff, which then separated into two thin blades. They were all covered in Elven cloaks, which were light as a feather but was warm to the touch if needed. The Elven cloaks were designed as a form of camouflage. The material shimmered as the fellowship waved farewell to Elrond. Reicu checked their provisions then mounted his white horse and rode after the group. They rode swiftly until the sun reached the borders of the western sky. They had just passed the Great Arch of Seulbre, which was created by the Dwarves to prevent "unwanted" visitors. Gimli was pleased by the kind greetings he received. Reicu stared around with disgust. They set their first camp on the border of the gorge of Giqqoc. In the morning they would have to cross through the gorge and then make their way through the ruined paths of Taqqwako. Gandalf watched the group awkwardly. There was silence among all the members excluding Liera and Danel who practiced sword play while Breonet, Reicu, and Legolas looked on. Soon Reicu, in his manner, began to shout words of encouragement to his sister, which soon turned to advice. It was not long before the advice quickly became criticizism. Legolas and Breonet looked at Reicu in disgust, then watched as Liera gritted her teeth in anger. "Move faster!" Reicu shouted. "Pyedbza Reicu!" Liera said sternly, trying her best to ignore him. Danel gave Reicu a hateful look then turned her attention back to her sword. Reicu glanced at the two men next to him then again began to shout at Liera as not to look like a fool. This time Liera slipped and fell, knocking herself and Danel to the ground. Liera was infuriated, but then realized she had cut her arm with her own sword. Breonet had assisted Danel to her feet again. Danel scowled at Reicu then muttered angrily under her breath in her own tongue. Liera turned to Reicu, then jumped to her feet. Her sword was aimed at him and he leaned back in surprise. "Liera...?" Reicu breathed deeply and pushed the sword. She leaned it under his chin so it touched his flesh. Everyone stared intently to see what would be done. "Sit down Reicu, and for once in your life keep your mouth shut." She paused for a moment. "Or I'll cut your throat." Legolas stood and pushed the sword away from Reicu. "Rest your sword. There is no need to fight against an ally." She glared at Reicu who sighed with relief the moment she moved the sword from his face. "D ref xiiyvva Reicu." She dropped her sword to the ground and sat down on the grass. Reicu laid down on the grass and stared at the sky feeling, once more, very foolish and immature. Legolas sat down and glared unhappily at Reicu. "Legolas, zacqrehutuxi." He smiled at her speech and then laid down and closed his eyes forcing sleep upon him.
Dawn the next day came and went. It was well past noon when Breonet awoke. He looked around seeing that his companions were all resting silently. He laid back down and then his eyes widened in alarm seeing the sun in the center of the sky. They had all overslept, including Gandalf and Gimli. Breonet hurriedly tried to awaken his companions. After a moment or two passed they were all awake and heading into the gorge Giqqoc. "We will have to make sure that this does not happen again." Gandalf began after the sun was higher in the sky.. "We will keep a watch during rest now. We will keep watch in pairs. Because of the time we lost in sleep we shall ride late into the night." The group moved on silently , all still wondering how it was quite possible they all slept so late for it was not custom for Elves to sleep well past sunrise. "It is quite unsettling." Gimli began in his deep-throated voice. "The silence in this place, I mean of course." "Gimli is right." Legolas added. "I hear no sound of any creature." "All I hear is the sound of our horses..." Reicu added straining to listen the best he could. "That is a little odd..." Danel whispered, then hearing her own voice return in an echo she continued. "That is a lot odd." "Something is not right here." Liera clung to her horse fighting off sleep. "I think it to be some form of witchery." Gimli stated to Gandalf. The wizard merely continued gazing down the road ahead, staring into the distant sea. There was an enchanting voice on the wind that seemed to be leading the horses. There path had strayed north since they began riding. "I believe that we have lost our path." Danel said looking around cautiously. Everyone halted their horses and looked around, trying to determine their position. "We are far closer to the sea...maybe three or four leagues closer." Legolas put his hand over his eyes, looking as far as he could with his keen Elven eyes. "I told you this was some kind of spell Gandalf!" Gimli grumbled. Gandalf kept his horse at a steady trot, not changing his direction. "I believe that this has somewhat of a part to play...so we shall continue this direction until we reach the sea. Trust me Gimli." He looked back at the halted party. "All of you..." There was an uncomfortable silence. "Let's go, no more hesitations or we will ride the entire night and the following day. Onward!" He whispered to his horse then began riding in a steady pace. "You heard him!" Liera trotted after him as fast as she could. The rest of the group followed Gandalf in the direction of the sea with newfound encouragement
It has been long since the quest of the one ring, it has been quite long since the fall of Mordor. After this Great War many were destroyed. The power of the nineteen rings created many splendid things but with the destruction of the One Ring all of these things also fell from existence. The Fellowship had broken and the living parted their separate ways. The time of the Elves had long since passed and there were little of them left in the land of Middle Earth. Out of the nine members of the fellowship only three still remain. Legolas the Elf who is heir to the throne of the forest of Mirkwood. After the death of his dear friend Aragorn Legolas chose it best to leave the land of Middle Earth and wander the other realms. This is how it came to pass that he traveled to the thriving and growing land of Oirthia. Gimli son of Gloin, a dwarf lord in the Lonely Mountain was blessed with unnatural long life and began to look elsewhere in Middle Earth for a home for his people, which there were not now many. After the fall of the Great Thorin Oakenshield many of the dwarves began to disperse and live their lives among the race of men. Gimli became quite strong but his lust for Mithrill had grown over the years and he became a sort of tyrant although his intentions themselves were nothing but good. Gandalf the White once known as the Grey is a wizard of the highest order. After the fall of Isengard and its leader Saruman he then began to govern the ruined land. Gandalf still befriended all of the races excluding Orcs and Goblins, which had been long since driven from the land. He often leaves his throne to explore Middle Earth once more, but now his wise eyes are set on the lands around that of Middle Earth. In particular he has his eyes set on the distant land of Oirthia which he believes to be much like his own land. Then there is Elrond and elf of great worth. He fought in the first coming of the darkness and watched the taking of the ring and the failing of the strength of man. He was there when the ring passed to Frodo son of Drogo and he now leads a great council in the rebuilt city of Xicqrewiyl. Many seek his counsel and those who seek refuge and peace often occupy his house. All who speak with Elrond heed his words carefully. With all of this said the story shall now begin. There was a great time of peace that fell over the lands after the destruction of the One Ring. It took place for a great forty-five years. During this time the glory of Middle Earth had diminished and people were moving to a new land. The land of Oirthia, thriving and beautiful it was full of majestic creatures and differed little from that of Middle Earth. But the peace could no longer be kept. The race of Orcs and Wargs were once again multiplying and not only were there more of them but they grew and gained power. These creatures were no longer known as a race but as a shadow in the deep. They hail in the crater of Demles which no fairer creature dare enters. Their darkness was beginning to spread across the land and the only thing that kept them at bay were the great forces of the Dwarfs surrounding the forests Xicqrewiyl. But what was not known to the dwarves and the other races was that darker forces than that of Orcs and Wargs were at work. There were seven great gems buried in the land around them. None had ever been found until the race of the dragons found one of them buried in an abandoned Dwarf mine. The finding of the gem had created a great disturbance in the land and it could be said that in the south a red light, almost as red as the color of blood and greed, could be seen glowing in the darkness. The races of the men and dwarves did not see this as a disturbance but the race of the Elves and the Wizards new better then to push it aside as some pitiful folly. The land of which was inhabited by the Elves, Xicqrewiyl, was lush and green. The trees were tall and their rough exterior seemed almost to shimmer a bright green as the sun danced across its surface from the cracks in the boughs above. The ground was covered with the leaves of summer, in this land it was custom for the leaves to fall in the summertime covering the land with a rainbow of colors. Bright voices and happy songs could be heard throughout Xicqrewiyl. The sound, having been followed would lead you to the city of Seulbre. This is where the elves lived their lives when they were not out exploring the vast lands of Oirthia. Among these elves there was no leader, no king, but there was a counsel which had been formed when Elrond, wisest of the elves moved to the vast city in search of something, which he would never speak of. But today on this particular day there was quite a disturbance among the Elves who lived among the trees of Xicqrewiyl. There could be no singing heard for miles and the laughter and soft whispers that could normally be heard were nowhere to be found. Instead it was a day of harsh and brutal silence. The Trees seemed to be leaning in sadness and there was an absence of sound, not even the animals of the forest dared to make a sound. As the forest grew deeper the beautifully crafted homes of the Elves could be seen. But there were none of its inhabitants to be found for miles around. Although the city seemed almost deserted there was a great bustle around the house of Elrond. Many of the Elves and Fairies gathered round listening to the arguing among the counsel, which was being held. "This particular meeting is of a grave stature." Elrond began in a loud tone. He had a young pale face, as most Elves do, but his eyes held a deep wisdom of the ages. His hair was adorned in an ornate style of braids. His hair was dark enough to match the great bark of the trees that surrounded him. He wore a seemingly silver outfit, which had sown into it the beautiful language of the Elves. As the light glistened across his outfit it seemed to change colors to match its surroundings. The arguing ceased and a hush fell over the counsel. There were Elves of high importance there. There were 12 seated in a large circle. Most of the Elves were men and they were all tall and proud. A few were women who sat uncomfortably in their long traditional white Elven dresses. A few of the men wore capes and quivers, but one of them was seated next to Elrond and wore a hood over his head, covering his face, but his eyes seemed to glow in the light of the forest. "I am displeased to say that there is darkness stirring in this fair land. It is just as I feared when I first arrived in Oirthia." Whispers began among the counsel. "The dragons have come across a precious stone and there is evil brewing the land of Demles. Even as we speak the Village of Zremdre as we call it in the Elven speech is being over taken by the great shadow of Orcs and Wargs." Elrond was interrupted by one of the male Elves. "Is this your grave danger?" He stood and addressed the counsel. "Wargs and Orcs? They are hardly a threat to our mighty bows." His face was proud, he was a younger elf and not as wise as Elrond. He had short white hair that barely reached his shoulders. His face was stern and he had a proud look about him. "Reicu you know as well as the rest of us that trouble has been stirring for some time in Demles." One of the older girls brushed her hair from her face impatiently. She glared at him angrily with her violet eyes. Her hair was dark brown in the shadows but it shined a brilliant gold in the sun. Her hair was wavy and curled over her shoulders. It was pulled back from the sides into a braid which lay neatly on her back. Reicu ignored the girl's objection. "And this stone you speak of? Can it not be destroyed?" He added. Elrond simply shook his head sideways in response, overcome with memories from the counsel long ago in Rivendell. "Then I say we keep it here. The Orcs and Wargs stand no chance against our mighty bows and swords!" There were a few cheers of agreement from a couple of the other male elves. "That would be fine if there were not six other stones, which would cause greater destruction." The cloaked elf next to Elrond shot in. "I say that this is all folly! It is a stone, what harm could a stone possibly do?" One of the other Elves put in. "About as much damage as a ring." An old man in gray rags entered the counsel standing proudly next to Elrond. Murmurs flew amongst the crowd at the mention of the ring. Such talk was not usually permitted in their pleasant land. "These stones each represent one of the dark counsels of this land. If they are brought together, who knows what peril it may cause to your land? Not just your land but the land of all the races here." "What are we supposed to do then?" Another young girl queried anxiously. She had a regal heir to herself and her green eyes shone proudly under the pale light. She had oddly fashioned light brown hair and a blue elven dress, under which she wore a white shirt and pants to match. She had a band of silver wrapped on her forehead. "Good question!" The old man smiled at her. "These crystals must be collected then sent back to the land of Middle Earth from whence they came. If they are cast into the darkness inside the Misty Mountains or even in the darkness of Mirkwood or Falgorn." "And what have you to say? You are just an old man, a withered stranger among our counsel." Reicu grew angered. "I say we attack the growing army at its source! Into the crater of Demles!" "Reicu...sit down..." The girl who earlier scolded him said through her teeth. "Liera leave me be!" He yelled at her. "I think that it is best that you listen to your friend there." The old man watched Reicu with amusement being reminded of one of his old companions. "You are an outsider and you should have no say in our Elven matters." "I should say quite different." The hooded man stared at Reicu. Reicu felt his heart pound and for a moment he almost stepped down from his speech. "This is Gandalf the white of the counsel of the wise from Middle Earth. He is the new leader of Isengard hailed from the temple of Orthanc." Silence again fell over the group. "Then I suppose that it is a good idea that we listen to him." Liera spoke before Reicu could get the chance. Reicu sat down feeling quite shunned and foolish. "Forgive him master Elrond and you Gandalf. He is young, not as wise as you and your counterparts." She bowed. "Then we should begin the search as soon as possible." Elrond paced into the center of the circle. "Gandalf shall lead the search since he is the wisest and has the most knowledge about the whereabouts of the stones. Gimli and Legolas shall accompany him as well as four other members of our own counsel." "Who is this Gimli and Legolas?" The girl with the wild light brown hair queried leaning forward. (Her name is Danel for the record). "Gimli is the new leader of the Lonely Mountain tribe of Middle Earth. He was present during the quest of the ring and should prove of great help to us now." "The Lonely Mountain?" Reicu rose again. "You are going to send a Dwarf on this quest? What nerve have you Elrond!" The counsel exchanged weary whispers most of them in prejudice to the race of the dwarves. Danel and Liera exchanged glances uneasily then turned their attention back to Elrond who was quieting the group. "Yes, he is a dwarf, but he is going on this quest and if you do not like that Reicu then there is no need for you to go along." Reicu quieted and looked down at the ground, ashamed that he had upset Elrond. "As I was saying, Gimli is going along as well as Gandalf and Legolas." "You still have not told us who this Legolas is." Liera said, as the counsel again became silent. "I shall save Elrond the trouble." The cloaked Elf stood. "I am Legolas, heir to the throne of Mirkwood. I was also part of the fellowship of the ring." He pulled down his hood and exchanged glances with each member of the counsel. Gandalf smiled as he watched the counsel's eyes widen. Legolas was a tall elf with long hair that was a bright blonde color, almost white. He had two braids on the side of his head, which were pulled back into one larger braid. Then behind his ears he had two more braids, which fell, over his shoulders with the rest of his hair. His body was covered with a silver-ish cloak resembling the fabric, which was worn by Elrond. "You may sit down now Legolas." Elrond then turned to the counsel once more. The first task of this," he exchanged a glance with Gandalf and Legolas, "fellowship will be to recover the stone from the last of the dragon race. Then it should be easy enough to collect the six other stones. Beware when you leave the land of Oirthia because your presence will no longer be shadowed under the veil, which wraps around this land. The shadow will follow and will attempt to take the stones. Hopefully we are not to late and the shadow has not headed yet towards Toqqwako. It is now time to choose the remainder of members who shall go on this quest." The counsel was silent. Danel and Liera exchanged glances and then stood at the exact moment. "We will go Lord Elrond." Danel smiled reassuringly. "No one is quite as skilled as we are in the arts of war." Liera added. "And I will go too!" Reicu stood from his chair. "You, Reicu, wish to go on this quest even though a dwarf will be in the company?" Elrond gave a mocking smile. "I realize that, but I will not let my sister and her little friend go alone." He acknowledged Liera. "Even if she is older than I am I feel it in my heart that I should protect her." Liera smiled hearing this convinced that her brother had made his first intelligent assumption of the day. She was, in fact relieved that he decided to go. Danel on the other hand was not quite as pleased as her counterpart. "I feel that it is my duty to serve this fair land and its people at whatever cost. I shall accompany your fellowship Elrond." An Elf with dark brown hair pulled back into one large braid stood. He stared at the eyes of each seated member of the counsel. He looked once at Danel and then his eyes fell back at Elrond. "Are you sure you want to go along Breonet?" Elrond was unsure at this choice. Breonet was not exactly recognized for his bravery and strength. "I will not take no for an answer." Breonet said with a certain uneasiness in his voice. Elrond looked at his comrades and then sighed. "Then it is settled. The company shall be Gandalf, Gimli, Legolas, Liera, Danel, Reicu, and Breonet." He nodded to each member. "I wish you luck. You shall set out at dawn tomorrow when Gimli arrives. Be well rested and well fed, for the weeks to follow will be hard times and I can guarantee that this will be your last well-slept night for a long while. At least until you return."
* * *
The first signs of dawn curled across the trees on the borders of Xicqrewiyl. The sky looked grim and clouds were darkening the sky in the south. The company left early after the arrival of Gimli the Dwarf. He was stout in stature and had a long beard, which was slightly graying. He wielded a large metal axe, which seemed very old. All the Elves brought their bows and a quiver stuffed with enough arrows to last an entire day of hard battle. Legolas carried two curved daggers that rested on the sides of his quiver. Liera and Danel bore each a long sword. Danel's sword was blue and the reflection that it gave off appeared as if it were water. Liera's sword had a black blade, which gave off a red-ish glow. It had Elven inscriptions born into its side. Gandalf, along with his wooden staff (which was accustom for a wizard to carry) carried a long sword at his side. Its name was Glamdring. It was fashioned by the Elves of Middle Earth and had slain many Orcs in its time. It glowed a faint blue when goblins and Orcs were near. Reicu had his bow and a small dagger, which was kept next to his Elven boots. Breonet was perhaps the only Elven member without a bow. He instead carried a hard metal staff, which then separated into two thin blades. They were all covered in Elven cloaks, which were light as a feather but was warm to the touch if needed. The Elven cloaks were designed as a form of camouflage. The material shimmered as the fellowship waved farewell to Elrond. Reicu checked their provisions then mounted his white horse and rode after the group. They rode swiftly until the sun reached the borders of the western sky. They had just passed the Great Arch of Seulbre, which was created by the Dwarves to prevent "unwanted" visitors. Gimli was pleased by the kind greetings he received. Reicu stared around with disgust. They set their first camp on the border of the gorge of Giqqoc. In the morning they would have to cross through the gorge and then make their way through the ruined paths of Taqqwako. Gandalf watched the group awkwardly. There was silence among all the members excluding Liera and Danel who practiced sword play while Breonet, Reicu, and Legolas looked on. Soon Reicu, in his manner, began to shout words of encouragement to his sister, which soon turned to advice. It was not long before the advice quickly became criticizism. Legolas and Breonet looked at Reicu in disgust, then watched as Liera gritted her teeth in anger. "Move faster!" Reicu shouted. "Pyedbza Reicu!" Liera said sternly, trying her best to ignore him. Danel gave Reicu a hateful look then turned her attention back to her sword. Reicu glanced at the two men next to him then again began to shout at Liera as not to look like a fool. This time Liera slipped and fell, knocking herself and Danel to the ground. Liera was infuriated, but then realized she had cut her arm with her own sword. Breonet had assisted Danel to her feet again. Danel scowled at Reicu then muttered angrily under her breath in her own tongue. Liera turned to Reicu, then jumped to her feet. Her sword was aimed at him and he leaned back in surprise. "Liera...?" Reicu breathed deeply and pushed the sword. She leaned it under his chin so it touched his flesh. Everyone stared intently to see what would be done. "Sit down Reicu, and for once in your life keep your mouth shut." She paused for a moment. "Or I'll cut your throat." Legolas stood and pushed the sword away from Reicu. "Rest your sword. There is no need to fight against an ally." She glared at Reicu who sighed with relief the moment she moved the sword from his face. "D ref xiiyvva Reicu." She dropped her sword to the ground and sat down on the grass. Reicu laid down on the grass and stared at the sky feeling, once more, very foolish and immature. Legolas sat down and glared unhappily at Reicu. "Legolas, zacqrehutuxi." He smiled at her speech and then laid down and closed his eyes forcing sleep upon him.
Dawn the next day came and went. It was well past noon when Breonet awoke. He looked around seeing that his companions were all resting silently. He laid back down and then his eyes widened in alarm seeing the sun in the center of the sky. They had all overslept, including Gandalf and Gimli. Breonet hurriedly tried to awaken his companions. After a moment or two passed they were all awake and heading into the gorge Giqqoc. "We will have to make sure that this does not happen again." Gandalf began after the sun was higher in the sky.. "We will keep a watch during rest now. We will keep watch in pairs. Because of the time we lost in sleep we shall ride late into the night." The group moved on silently , all still wondering how it was quite possible they all slept so late for it was not custom for Elves to sleep well past sunrise. "It is quite unsettling." Gimli began in his deep-throated voice. "The silence in this place, I mean of course." "Gimli is right." Legolas added. "I hear no sound of any creature." "All I hear is the sound of our horses..." Reicu added straining to listen the best he could. "That is a little odd..." Danel whispered, then hearing her own voice return in an echo she continued. "That is a lot odd." "Something is not right here." Liera clung to her horse fighting off sleep. "I think it to be some form of witchery." Gimli stated to Gandalf. The wizard merely continued gazing down the road ahead, staring into the distant sea. There was an enchanting voice on the wind that seemed to be leading the horses. There path had strayed north since they began riding. "I believe that we have lost our path." Danel said looking around cautiously. Everyone halted their horses and looked around, trying to determine their position. "We are far closer to the sea...maybe three or four leagues closer." Legolas put his hand over his eyes, looking as far as he could with his keen Elven eyes. "I told you this was some kind of spell Gandalf!" Gimli grumbled. Gandalf kept his horse at a steady trot, not changing his direction. "I believe that this has somewhat of a part to play...so we shall continue this direction until we reach the sea. Trust me Gimli." He looked back at the halted party. "All of you..." There was an uncomfortable silence. "Let's go, no more hesitations or we will ride the entire night and the following day. Onward!" He whispered to his horse then began riding in a steady pace. "You heard him!" Liera trotted after him as fast as she could. The rest of the group followed Gandalf in the direction of the sea with newfound encouragement