A/N: I apologize it took me so long to post this next chapter. I have
company in town, and I have not had as much time to write as I would like.
Also, I would very much like to thank all of you who have read my story and
especially those of you who have reviewed it. I greatly appreciate all of
your comments, and also any corrections to errors I might make. Tolkien's
world is so complex it is very easy for me to make mistakes. The next
chapter will be very heavy in The Silmarillion and so I have my Complete
Guide to Middle-Earth and my encyclopedia close at hand, but I know I am
going to miss some details. This is half the fun of writing LotR fan fics
for me though. So, please, continue to R/R. It is wonderful to have your
opinions.
Chapter VII
An Uneasy Treachery
The trumpets sounded from atop Minas Mallen to announce the coming of the dawn. It was now the second morning since the attack at Khazad-bizar and Boromir and his remaining four guards had come within sight of the capital city of Ithilien. They were running at a steady pace as they had done for the entire night, but tired as they were their steps quickened at the sight of their journey's end.
After the attacks Boromir and his men had toiled long helping the dwarves to bury their dead. Seventeen of Gimli's dwarfs had perished in the skirmish, including his successor, Nomi. The dwarves were a hearty folk and they bore their grief well, but where there had been the sounds of hammers in Khazad-bizar there were now funeral dirges lifted up on deep, rumbling voices. The bodies of the horses and ponies had been buried as well, and the blood had been washed away, but Boromir wondered if any animal would ever suffer to be stabled there again.
The prince and his men discussed what to do with the bodies of their fallen comrades, and finally it was decided to bury them here on the shoulder of the mountain that stood over the dwarves' mine. Their spirits forever watched over Khazad-bizar, and it was said that no enemy passed the entrance to that mine for a dreadful fear would come over them ere they approached. The bodies of the elves had been carried up the mountainside and laid out on a stretch of grass. There the foul carrion and dark creatures of the earth would feast upon their bodies until there was naught left of them. The work had lasted throughout the night and much of the following day.
Boromir and Tolmoth had discussed whether to take their journey by daylight or under cover of darkness. Both agreed that the capture of Gimli was intended to bring Legolas out of the protection of Minas Mallen, and so they felt there was little chance they would be attacked. Still, they agreed to leave under cover of darkness, and so it was that after the moon had set they had left Khazad-bizar for Amon Galen.
They had run at a steady pace throughout most of the evening walking for short spells to conserve their energy. The sun had risen fully above the Emyn Arnen as the men crossed the marble bridge and entered into Amon Galen. They had not come far through the city when they were met by soldiers from Minas Mallen.
"Hail, Boromir!" said the man at the front of the squad.
Boromir and his men halted. "Hail, Thaldin!"
Thaldin looked concerned, "We were not expecting your return for many days yet, my lord. And now you come to us, only four and without your horses. What are the tidings?"
"The tidings are grim, Captain! I must see my father immediately. Dispatch one of your guard to tell the prince of my return, and to request an audience."
Thaldin turned and with a flick of his wrist one man stepped out and ran with all speed back towards the tower. Boromir and his men set off as well for the tower, but at a much slower pace, flanked by Thaldin and his men.
When they arrived at Minas Mallen the soldier who had been dispatched to find Faramir was waiting for them at the gate. "Your father bids you come to his rooms immediately."
Boromir stopped and turned to his men. "You all are ordered to find food and rest immediately. I do not know how long it will be before our services are needed yet again. My hope is we shall be out hunting the dark elves ere long. Use this time to rest." The four men immediately left for their quarters, and Boromir headed down the hall leading to part of the citadel that housed the royal family.
As always two guards were posted outside his father's rooms, but they moved aside when he approached. Boromir knocked on the door, and his father's rich voice called for him to enter. Inside, the sitting room was flooded with the early morning sunlight. His father was standing by the fireplace when Boromir entered, and the young man could tell he had been pacing. "Father, I bring ill news from Khazad-bizar." Faramir looked at him with troubled eyes, and he nodded for Boromir to continue. "Two nights ago the mine was attacked by persons wearing the black robes similar to the one who attacked Legolas a month ago. The battle was short, though many lives were lost. I do not think, however, that their intent was to kill dwarves as they made straight for Master Gimli's rooms and abducted him. The captain of my guard, Tolmoth, witnessed the dwarf being spirited away by the attackers."
Long before Boromir had finished this part of the story his father had begun pacing the room again. Prince Faramir walked to the table in the center of the room and slammed his fist upon it, "Who are these murderers, and now seemingly kidnappers?! Damn Thranduil for his cryptic message! He has given us nothing with which to defend ourselves!!!"
Boromir moved closer to his father and lowered his voice, "There is more, Father. We were able to bring down 5 of the attackers, though at a great price. I lost eight of my guard, and seventeen of the dwarves were slain, including Nomi. They were elves."
Faramir's eyes bore into his son's. The news was not a complete surprise, but until that moment he had hoped that King Elessar's words would prove false. "Gimli's kidnapping is undoubtedly a move to force Legolas to leave my protection. When he hears this news he will most certainly try to leave. I cannot allow this to happen." The Prince of Ithilien looked worn and haggard. "The moon is nearly gone, and Thranduil should be arriving soon, and undoubtedly he knows much about this. Would that he had gotten here sooner."
Faramir's eyes seemed far away as he pondered the news, but then they suddenly softened and turned again to his son, "I am most relieved that you are unharmed." Seeing the disappointed look in his son's eyes he moved towards him and grasped his shoulder, "And I am proud of you. You have fought bravely against a terrible foe, and then led your men home along an uncertain path. You have proven worthy of the title of Dunadan."
Boromir's eyes did not flinch away from his father's though he felt bare and exposed under their stare. His heart raced to hear the words he had so longed to hear. "Thank you, Father. But much of the glory belongs to my teachers." Boromir winked at Faramir. Though he had studied under many of the Rangers of Ithilien it was his father who had been most prominent in his education.
Faramir nodded, "But a teacher is only as useful as the student is able." He smiled at his son, and Boromir could not help but smile back. In that moment all sorrow and anxiety fled from their countenances, but only briefly for evil was still close at hand.
The prince once again began pacing the room. "Who rules now in Khazad- bizar?"
"Kolim."
"Good, he is wise and has a level-head, for a dwarf." Faramir winked at Boromir. "Undoubtedly he has sent word to Thorin and Gimli's father, Gloin. I think that we should send word to King Elessar and King Eomer as well. With Thranduil coming perhaps it is time for a council.
"Also, we must send soldiers to search out Gimli. If these elves left in a hurry there may yet be signs of their passing in the wood. I will send Danethil and two other Rangers besides. They must leave immediately before the trail grows too cold.
Faramir went to the door from which Boromir had entered and instructed one of the guards to send for Danethil and the Prince's scribe. That done he turned again to face his son. The young man was seated in one of the chairs leaned back so that his head was resting on its back. His normally clean-shaven face was covered in fine golden-red hairs, there were dark circles under his eyes, and his face was covered in grime and dirt. "I am sorry, my son. You are tired and worn. I should not have kept you so long. Go and rest, as I am sure you have already instructed your men to do."
Boromir could not argue for his eyes had grown heavy and his mind had become foggy with weariness. He rose and bowing to his father returned to the hall outside and soon found himself within the peace and quiet of his own rooms. He removed his sword and boots, and as he did so his stomach grumbled with hunger. He ignored it for the call of his pillow was much stronger. Prince Boromir lay down upon his bed and within moments had passed into a deep sleep.
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Dwarves were running everywhere being chased by dark elves in black robes. Though they fought valiantly they were slowly being massacred one-by-one. He tried to move, but his legs seemed to be frozen. A golden-haired elf ran past him chased hard by one of his dark brothers. He shouted a warning, but the dark elf was upon him too quickly. The sword blade went easily through the elf's neck; his head fell and rolled away. The dwarves were no longer running. Instead they were singing their funeral dirge and carrying Gimli's body to a funeral pyre. The black-cloaked elves took no notice and continued their slaughter. Suddenly Legolas ran in front of him, "Help me, Boromir! You must help me!" Boromir tried to move, to reach for his sword, anything, but his limbs would not obey. Legolas continued to shout at him, "Boromir! Boromir!"
"Boromir. Boromir!" He woke with a start searching frantically for the elf-prince, but he found only his mother sitting at his bedside. "I did not mean to startle you, my son, but you were dreaming and seemed quite distressed."
The prince sat up and took several deep breaths. He looked at his mother. There was a great worry in her eyes. "'It was only a nightmare borne out of these dark tidings, but it has passed." His mother looked as if she wanted to embrace him, but after looking at him again she thought better of it. He took her hand, "It is fleeting, Mother. Besides, are not such things to be expected?"
She gripped his hand tightly and smiled, "Yes, of course, but do not blame a mother for wishing she could protect her son from such suffering." Eowyn rose and went to Boromir's wardrobe and began to search for a shirt for him. "Your father expects you in the Meeting Hall an hour after sunset. There is a great deal to discuss. Word was sent to Eomer and Elessar about the latest attack. Your father has requested that they come here as soon as possible. If there are no unforeseen problems we expect their arrival tomorrow or the day after, and Thranduil should be arriving any day as well." She pulled a dark green shirt out and laid it on his bed next to the black coat with gold embroidery at the collar.
"I will leave you to your preparations." She turned and opened the door leading out from his bedchamber then turned to him again, "I am glad you are well, Boromir." Her voice was steady, but her eyes were moist at the edges. She did not wait for a response but left quickly shutting the door behind her.
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Legolas sat perfectly still, his eyes intent on the water falling in a circular sheet into the fountain well. His breathing came slowly and in even measure. The muscles in his body were relaxed. His mind was devoid of thought. There was nothing except the water. Only the water.
An alert went off in the elf's mind; an internal alarm that told him the time for the meeting had come. Reality swooped down and beat her harsh wings upon him once again.
When they had told him of Gimli's kidnapping he had intended to leave the citadel that instant and search him out. Of course, they had anticipated this and made certain that he did no such thing. Now there were two armed guards shadowing him at all times, and these were no ordinary guards from whom the elf could have easily escaped. No, Faramir had posted two Rangers as his "escorts". He could devise no means for escape at the time, and so he spent the rest of the day by the fountain. He had every intention of leaving the citadel that night even if there was danger in doing so, and whether or not Faramir would allow it. The elf grimaced at the thought. It would seem that headstrong, impetuous dwarf was rubbing off on him. Legolas rose and made his way to the Meeting Hall followed at a respectful distance by the two Rangers.
The Meeting Hall was a large room filled with tapestries made by the Silvan elves. The patterns were of elvish knots and the three-pronged triskelion all in the earthy colors of the forest: rich browns, dark greens, muted silvers, cool sages. In the center of the room was a large, oval table made of the oak found in the forests of Ithilien. Faramir had already taken his place at the table with Boromir to his right. On Faramir's left sat, Galwaith, the captain of the Rangers of Ithilien; a grave-looking man with long, gray hair and eyes the color of the sea on a stormy day. He spoke very little but watched every person in the room intently studying them. Legolas and Gimli had commented more than a few times on the captain's similarity to their friend, King Elessar of Gondor. On Boromir's left sat Tolmoth, the captain of his guard. There were other members of Faramir's cabinet in attendance as well. Most of them were Rangers; all of them were seasoned warriors.
When all had reached their seats Faramir rose, and all became silent. "Today grave news has been delivered to us by Prince Boromir. As you are all aware Gimli, son of Gloin, has been kidnapped from the halls of Khazad- bizar. Worse yet, many dwarves and men of Ithilien lost their lives today in the skirmish. Not since the war for the ring of power have I had to inform so many of the death of a loved one. It is a dreadful duty to bear.
"Boromir and his remaining men have given me a detailed account of what they witnessed in the mine. The attack was short, and only those who attempted to stop the elves were killed. With this in mind it seems clear to me what it is these elves desire. They wish to lure Prince Legolas out of the protection of Minas Mallen. To what end I cannot say. However, the letter sent from King Thranduil, the father of Legolas, seems to infer they would use Legolas in turn to provoke Thranduil.
"I see by some of your faces that the rumor that elves had committed these acts was not necessarily believed by all. In truth, I would have also thought it a jest in the poorest of taste if not for the accounts from my own son. These murderers are indeed elves, though not like any elf I have ever known of. Boromir has provided Legolas with descriptions of the elves, but Legolas could say nothing of their identities based on this. Know only this: these elves have dark hair and dark eyes, and all seem to wear long black robes. All else regarding our enemy must wait until the arrival of King Thranduil.
"But whoever these elves may be we will not easily be persuaded by their devices. Ithilien is not going to be bullied into giving up even one of her sons or daughters for the promise of peace. Yet, we cannot abandon Gimli. This morning as soon as I first heard the news I dispatched Danethil and with him two other Rangers to search for signs of the elves passing from Khazad-bizar. They will send word if there is any sign of the dwarf's whereabouts, but they will not be the only ones.
"I have not the words to tell of the greatness of such a warrior as Master Gimli. He has proven great bravery and valor in defending all of Middle- earth. The work Master Gimli and his dwarves have done to help re-build Ithilien is an immeasurable feat. He is a strong leader and a friend to all. His absence is a great hurt to all the peoples of Ithilien, and it is insufferable to those who were close to the dwarf.
"So, we must use our heads as well as our courage and steadfastness in order to hunt out his captors and return Gimli safely to Khazad-bizar. I have spoken with some of you already regarding the intentions of our enemy. We are all agreed that Gimli is being used to lure Prince Legolas out of the protection of Minas Mallen. For this reason I cannot allow him to leave the citadel, though it pains me to ask this of you. Yet I and all within my realm would suffer the more were you also to fall prey to the enemy."
Legolas nodded in acquiescence though his heart was heavy. This was what he had expected.
The Prince continued. "I have asked Galwaith for 50 of his Rangers. Each will lead a search party of 8 men to the far corners of Ithilien and in some cases beyond our borders. This will diminish the number of our soldiers, but Prince Legolas has offered his elven warriors to guard Minas Mallen and so help to offset the fewer numbers. All those who will be traveling into danger should know that their families are guarded and safe.
"Our enemy is strong, and we know little of their ways, for they do not seem to follow the ways of the elves we have known. But they know little of us either, and that may prove to be their downfall for we are a fierce people when attacked. If they think us weak and slow in our peaceful realm then they will soon find out otherwise. And they may also find that the good peoples of Ithilien have many allies who will stand beside us and fight with us, and we will prevail." Faramir drew his sword and laid it upon the table tip facing the center. "Long Live Ithilien!!!", he shouted.
The men at the table rose and placed their swords in similar fashion, and together they responded, "Long Live Ithilien! Ithilien, the fair!!!"
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Legolas sat cross-legged on the bed staring at the backs of the two guards standing on the balcony. His mind was feverishly devising plans for escape and just as quickly discarding them. He had to remind himself that these were Rangers, and the silent footfalls of the elven race would not be enough to elude these men. He had considered rendering them unconscious with a quick blow to the head, but even if he could have managed to accomplish this, which he doubted, he did not wish any harm to these men. And so he sat, deep in thought, unwilling to accept his confinement, and desperately searching for a way out.
A knock at his door roused him. Aldaluin, the captain of his personal guard, entered the room flanked by three other elves. Aldaluin was tall even for an elf, and his gray eyes were always serious. Legolas did not remember ever seeing him smile or laugh, but his father had said that all happiness had fled from the elf when his wife had been killed during the Battle of Dagorlad. The elf's skills with a sword were unsurpassed by any being known to Legolas, and though he still found the idea of a personal guard ridiculous he slept more easily knowing Aldaluin was on the watch. "Prince Legolas, I know the hour is late, but we had hoped to speak with you of some important matters."
Legolas rose from the bed. "Of course, Aldaluin, please come in." The captain entered flanked by two other elves of Legolas's guard, Firith and Lalaith. Where Aldaluin was stern and stone-faced these two elves were known for their mirth and easy-going natures. Their laughter could be heard throughout Edhil-e-londe when the elves had abided there, and they constantly traded witty insults and cutting remarks about one another's abilities in every aspect of battle and life. The male and female were constant companions, and Legolas had a suspicion that they cared for each other a bit more than either would like to let on. But any who mistook their relaxed personalities for easy prey soon found themselves staring down the shaft of an arrow or felt the cold touch of a blade held at their throat. They were a deadly pair.
The fourth elf was a surprise to the prince. Serewen had entered behind the three dressed in the garb of a warrior. Luvien's long knife hung at her waist, and she wore a tunic and leggings, not her usual gown. Her husband had been a warrior, but as far as Legolas knew Serewen was skilled in weaving and needlework, not combat.
All four elves bowed their heads to their prince. Legolas nodded in return, "Welcome, all." He looked upon Serewen with empathy. It had now been more than two months since her husband's murder, and though the guilty had been discovered nothing had been done to bring them to justice as of yet "It is good to see you again, Serewen."
"And you, your Highness," she nodded, but their was a coldness in her eyes.
"Would any of you care for some wine or other refreshments?"
Before the others could respond Aldaluin said, "Yes, your Highness. Some wine would be good for us all."
Legolas went to the door and asked one of the guards to have some wine brought to them. Then he turned to face his guests, "What important matters do you wish to discuss?"
Aldaluin and the others had moved towards the back of the room where they appeared to be admiring a tapestry, which depicted Caras Galadon in Lothlorien. It was exquisite, and had in fact been made by Serewen herself as a gift for Prince Legolas. More importantly, Legolas reasoned, they had positioned themselves as far from the guards on the balcony as possible.
Legolas fell in beside Aldaluin. The captain motioned at the wall hanging with his hand, but he did not speak of this. Instead, with a voice so low Legolas had to strain to hear, he began, "I would hazard a guess, my Lord, that you are at this very moment working a plan of escape for yourself." The prince kept his face still and betrayed nothing of his thoughts to Aldaluin. "Do not worry, we are not here to dissuade you from this. In fact, we are here to accompany you on your journey."
Legolas still betrayed no emotion on his face, but he was encouraged by Aldaluin's words. The elf continued, "We have horses and provisions hidden on the forest not far from here, and we have a plan to steal away unnoticed. Even now it has begun, look to your balcony."
Legolas turned slowly and saw a changing of the guard on his balcony, but this was not unusual it being midnight, the appointed time for fresh guards to take their places. He shot a questioning look at Aldaluin. "Come, let us welcome the new guard."
The five elves moved to the balcony where the two Rangers stood. As they neared Aldaluin called softly, "Hail, Tolmoth. Hail, Gerath."
The two Rangers turned, and Tolmoth spoke, "Hail, Prince Legolas. Hail, Aldaluin. All has been prepared, but we must not tarry. The two guards we replaced will undoubtedly question their captain about the change of guard, and then our deception will be discovered. Come." They descended the stairs, and Legolas followed knowing questions would have to wait until they could escape from the city. Tolmoth took them up and down many stairways to avoid balconies from which they might be discovered. Soon they reached the arboretum on the ground floor. It was deserted at this late hour, and Tolmoth guided them along the outer wall until they reached a large tapestry depicting the Falls of Rauros; another of Serewen's creations, Legolas noted.
Tolmoth lifted the edge of the tapestry revealing a smooth wall of marble. The Ranger moved to the center of the wall and pushed with one hand. A doorway opened up revealing a long staircase leading down. Tolmoth took a torch from the side of the wall and lit it from one of the nearby braziers then returning to the hidden entrance he motioned for all to follow him. When they were all inside Gerath silently closed the hidden door behind them.
The first fifty spans of the stairway were made of the blue marble, but this ended abruptly and was replaced with sheer rock. The seven of them continued down that stair for some time. Legolas had not known about the hidden doorway, but he suspected Gimli was behind its design. It occurred to him that the dwarf had likely delighted in knowing something Legolas did not, and the elf would have liked to speak to him of this, but he had no doubt that Gimli had been ordered by Faramir to discuss the secret passage with no one.
After about ten minutes they reached the bottom and a tunnel ran seemingly endlessly to their right. The party started through the tunnel, and Aldaluin finally spoke. "I am sorry, my Lord, that I could not give you more detail before we left, but the plan was made in haste, and there was not enough time to impart this to you in full." Legolas nodded in understanding and Aldaluin continued. "After this evening's meeting Boromir with four of his Rangers sought me out. They advised me of what had been said at the meeting, and also of something else; Prince Faramir had appointed his son as the head of the guard for Minas Mallen. Prince Boromir refused the appointment and asked his father if he might instead lead one of the search parties for Gimli. Faramir refused.
"Boromir found this plan to be insufferable, and so thinking that you might also be of like mind regarding your situation he came to me. I, of course, advised him that I was sure you would attempt to leave tonight, but I did not think you would succeed. Boromir then offered this plan. He would have two of his own guard to replace the one's at your balcony at the time of the changing of the guard. Since he had been made head of the guard here in the citadel his orders would have to be followed, but Rangers are suspicious of everything. I am certain the guards we replaced will ask questions, and soon your absence will be discovered.
"This tunnel was constructed by the dwarves as a means for escape in case Minas Mallen were ever overrun by enemies. I did not know of its existence, as I am sure you did not, until only an hour ago. Only the Royal Family, the captains of their personal guard, and Gimli had knowledge of it. We have come far underground, well below the level of the moat, and we will ascend one other staircase that will bring us into the forests about two leagues east of Amon Galen. Boromir and two others of his guard await us there with the horses, food, and our weapons."
Legolas was stunned. This evening he had been planning for escape, alone, and without help. He did not think he would even be able to acquire a horse or food, and now all had been prepared and he would be searching for Gimli with the aid of five trained Rangers and three elven warriors, and Serewen. Her presence still puzzled the elf-prince. "Thank you all for what you have done. I cannot thank you enough, though I fear even if we survive to find Gimli, we shall all be banished from Ithilien for disobeying Prince Faramir. Especially in placing the crown prince in harm's way."
All of the company remained silent at the elf's statement, but none slowed as they made their way through the tunnel. They had made their decisions before this and accepted the consequences of what may come.
Legolas moved closer to Aldaluin and whispered in his ear, "What of Serewen? Why has she come with?"
At this Aldaluin looked somewhat distressed, "She came to me soon after word of Gimli's capture. She said she knew you would try and escape to help find him, and she wanted to come with. I tried to persuade her otherwise, but she would not listen." Aldaluin looked uncomfortable for a moment, "She said that I of all people would not deny her the right to seek vengeance on those who had killed Luvien. I told her that those not skilled in battle would be more of a hindrance than a help, but she claimed to be skilled in the use of weaponry. I tested her with a sword, and she is more than skilled, and so I granted her request."
Legolas nodded and said no more. Perhaps Aldaluin's sympathies had played into the decision, but he would never have allowed her to come if he did not think her able to defend herself.
They continued down the tunnel for the better part of an hour, and finally came to the steps Aldaluin had spoken of. These were not as long as the ones they had descended and soon they arrived at a trap door. Tolmoth knocked on the door three times, twice again, then four times, and then he slowly opened the door. The moon was new and so the forest seemed black. Tolmoth extinguished the torch and they were all plunged into darkness.
"Hail, Tolmoth," Legolas heard the hearty voice of young Boromir, "How does it feel to be a fugitive?"
Chapter VII
An Uneasy Treachery
The trumpets sounded from atop Minas Mallen to announce the coming of the dawn. It was now the second morning since the attack at Khazad-bizar and Boromir and his remaining four guards had come within sight of the capital city of Ithilien. They were running at a steady pace as they had done for the entire night, but tired as they were their steps quickened at the sight of their journey's end.
After the attacks Boromir and his men had toiled long helping the dwarves to bury their dead. Seventeen of Gimli's dwarfs had perished in the skirmish, including his successor, Nomi. The dwarves were a hearty folk and they bore their grief well, but where there had been the sounds of hammers in Khazad-bizar there were now funeral dirges lifted up on deep, rumbling voices. The bodies of the horses and ponies had been buried as well, and the blood had been washed away, but Boromir wondered if any animal would ever suffer to be stabled there again.
The prince and his men discussed what to do with the bodies of their fallen comrades, and finally it was decided to bury them here on the shoulder of the mountain that stood over the dwarves' mine. Their spirits forever watched over Khazad-bizar, and it was said that no enemy passed the entrance to that mine for a dreadful fear would come over them ere they approached. The bodies of the elves had been carried up the mountainside and laid out on a stretch of grass. There the foul carrion and dark creatures of the earth would feast upon their bodies until there was naught left of them. The work had lasted throughout the night and much of the following day.
Boromir and Tolmoth had discussed whether to take their journey by daylight or under cover of darkness. Both agreed that the capture of Gimli was intended to bring Legolas out of the protection of Minas Mallen, and so they felt there was little chance they would be attacked. Still, they agreed to leave under cover of darkness, and so it was that after the moon had set they had left Khazad-bizar for Amon Galen.
They had run at a steady pace throughout most of the evening walking for short spells to conserve their energy. The sun had risen fully above the Emyn Arnen as the men crossed the marble bridge and entered into Amon Galen. They had not come far through the city when they were met by soldiers from Minas Mallen.
"Hail, Boromir!" said the man at the front of the squad.
Boromir and his men halted. "Hail, Thaldin!"
Thaldin looked concerned, "We were not expecting your return for many days yet, my lord. And now you come to us, only four and without your horses. What are the tidings?"
"The tidings are grim, Captain! I must see my father immediately. Dispatch one of your guard to tell the prince of my return, and to request an audience."
Thaldin turned and with a flick of his wrist one man stepped out and ran with all speed back towards the tower. Boromir and his men set off as well for the tower, but at a much slower pace, flanked by Thaldin and his men.
When they arrived at Minas Mallen the soldier who had been dispatched to find Faramir was waiting for them at the gate. "Your father bids you come to his rooms immediately."
Boromir stopped and turned to his men. "You all are ordered to find food and rest immediately. I do not know how long it will be before our services are needed yet again. My hope is we shall be out hunting the dark elves ere long. Use this time to rest." The four men immediately left for their quarters, and Boromir headed down the hall leading to part of the citadel that housed the royal family.
As always two guards were posted outside his father's rooms, but they moved aside when he approached. Boromir knocked on the door, and his father's rich voice called for him to enter. Inside, the sitting room was flooded with the early morning sunlight. His father was standing by the fireplace when Boromir entered, and the young man could tell he had been pacing. "Father, I bring ill news from Khazad-bizar." Faramir looked at him with troubled eyes, and he nodded for Boromir to continue. "Two nights ago the mine was attacked by persons wearing the black robes similar to the one who attacked Legolas a month ago. The battle was short, though many lives were lost. I do not think, however, that their intent was to kill dwarves as they made straight for Master Gimli's rooms and abducted him. The captain of my guard, Tolmoth, witnessed the dwarf being spirited away by the attackers."
Long before Boromir had finished this part of the story his father had begun pacing the room again. Prince Faramir walked to the table in the center of the room and slammed his fist upon it, "Who are these murderers, and now seemingly kidnappers?! Damn Thranduil for his cryptic message! He has given us nothing with which to defend ourselves!!!"
Boromir moved closer to his father and lowered his voice, "There is more, Father. We were able to bring down 5 of the attackers, though at a great price. I lost eight of my guard, and seventeen of the dwarves were slain, including Nomi. They were elves."
Faramir's eyes bore into his son's. The news was not a complete surprise, but until that moment he had hoped that King Elessar's words would prove false. "Gimli's kidnapping is undoubtedly a move to force Legolas to leave my protection. When he hears this news he will most certainly try to leave. I cannot allow this to happen." The Prince of Ithilien looked worn and haggard. "The moon is nearly gone, and Thranduil should be arriving soon, and undoubtedly he knows much about this. Would that he had gotten here sooner."
Faramir's eyes seemed far away as he pondered the news, but then they suddenly softened and turned again to his son, "I am most relieved that you are unharmed." Seeing the disappointed look in his son's eyes he moved towards him and grasped his shoulder, "And I am proud of you. You have fought bravely against a terrible foe, and then led your men home along an uncertain path. You have proven worthy of the title of Dunadan."
Boromir's eyes did not flinch away from his father's though he felt bare and exposed under their stare. His heart raced to hear the words he had so longed to hear. "Thank you, Father. But much of the glory belongs to my teachers." Boromir winked at Faramir. Though he had studied under many of the Rangers of Ithilien it was his father who had been most prominent in his education.
Faramir nodded, "But a teacher is only as useful as the student is able." He smiled at his son, and Boromir could not help but smile back. In that moment all sorrow and anxiety fled from their countenances, but only briefly for evil was still close at hand.
The prince once again began pacing the room. "Who rules now in Khazad- bizar?"
"Kolim."
"Good, he is wise and has a level-head, for a dwarf." Faramir winked at Boromir. "Undoubtedly he has sent word to Thorin and Gimli's father, Gloin. I think that we should send word to King Elessar and King Eomer as well. With Thranduil coming perhaps it is time for a council.
"Also, we must send soldiers to search out Gimli. If these elves left in a hurry there may yet be signs of their passing in the wood. I will send Danethil and two other Rangers besides. They must leave immediately before the trail grows too cold.
Faramir went to the door from which Boromir had entered and instructed one of the guards to send for Danethil and the Prince's scribe. That done he turned again to face his son. The young man was seated in one of the chairs leaned back so that his head was resting on its back. His normally clean-shaven face was covered in fine golden-red hairs, there were dark circles under his eyes, and his face was covered in grime and dirt. "I am sorry, my son. You are tired and worn. I should not have kept you so long. Go and rest, as I am sure you have already instructed your men to do."
Boromir could not argue for his eyes had grown heavy and his mind had become foggy with weariness. He rose and bowing to his father returned to the hall outside and soon found himself within the peace and quiet of his own rooms. He removed his sword and boots, and as he did so his stomach grumbled with hunger. He ignored it for the call of his pillow was much stronger. Prince Boromir lay down upon his bed and within moments had passed into a deep sleep.
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Dwarves were running everywhere being chased by dark elves in black robes. Though they fought valiantly they were slowly being massacred one-by-one. He tried to move, but his legs seemed to be frozen. A golden-haired elf ran past him chased hard by one of his dark brothers. He shouted a warning, but the dark elf was upon him too quickly. The sword blade went easily through the elf's neck; his head fell and rolled away. The dwarves were no longer running. Instead they were singing their funeral dirge and carrying Gimli's body to a funeral pyre. The black-cloaked elves took no notice and continued their slaughter. Suddenly Legolas ran in front of him, "Help me, Boromir! You must help me!" Boromir tried to move, to reach for his sword, anything, but his limbs would not obey. Legolas continued to shout at him, "Boromir! Boromir!"
"Boromir. Boromir!" He woke with a start searching frantically for the elf-prince, but he found only his mother sitting at his bedside. "I did not mean to startle you, my son, but you were dreaming and seemed quite distressed."
The prince sat up and took several deep breaths. He looked at his mother. There was a great worry in her eyes. "'It was only a nightmare borne out of these dark tidings, but it has passed." His mother looked as if she wanted to embrace him, but after looking at him again she thought better of it. He took her hand, "It is fleeting, Mother. Besides, are not such things to be expected?"
She gripped his hand tightly and smiled, "Yes, of course, but do not blame a mother for wishing she could protect her son from such suffering." Eowyn rose and went to Boromir's wardrobe and began to search for a shirt for him. "Your father expects you in the Meeting Hall an hour after sunset. There is a great deal to discuss. Word was sent to Eomer and Elessar about the latest attack. Your father has requested that they come here as soon as possible. If there are no unforeseen problems we expect their arrival tomorrow or the day after, and Thranduil should be arriving any day as well." She pulled a dark green shirt out and laid it on his bed next to the black coat with gold embroidery at the collar.
"I will leave you to your preparations." She turned and opened the door leading out from his bedchamber then turned to him again, "I am glad you are well, Boromir." Her voice was steady, but her eyes were moist at the edges. She did not wait for a response but left quickly shutting the door behind her.
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Legolas sat perfectly still, his eyes intent on the water falling in a circular sheet into the fountain well. His breathing came slowly and in even measure. The muscles in his body were relaxed. His mind was devoid of thought. There was nothing except the water. Only the water.
An alert went off in the elf's mind; an internal alarm that told him the time for the meeting had come. Reality swooped down and beat her harsh wings upon him once again.
When they had told him of Gimli's kidnapping he had intended to leave the citadel that instant and search him out. Of course, they had anticipated this and made certain that he did no such thing. Now there were two armed guards shadowing him at all times, and these were no ordinary guards from whom the elf could have easily escaped. No, Faramir had posted two Rangers as his "escorts". He could devise no means for escape at the time, and so he spent the rest of the day by the fountain. He had every intention of leaving the citadel that night even if there was danger in doing so, and whether or not Faramir would allow it. The elf grimaced at the thought. It would seem that headstrong, impetuous dwarf was rubbing off on him. Legolas rose and made his way to the Meeting Hall followed at a respectful distance by the two Rangers.
The Meeting Hall was a large room filled with tapestries made by the Silvan elves. The patterns were of elvish knots and the three-pronged triskelion all in the earthy colors of the forest: rich browns, dark greens, muted silvers, cool sages. In the center of the room was a large, oval table made of the oak found in the forests of Ithilien. Faramir had already taken his place at the table with Boromir to his right. On Faramir's left sat, Galwaith, the captain of the Rangers of Ithilien; a grave-looking man with long, gray hair and eyes the color of the sea on a stormy day. He spoke very little but watched every person in the room intently studying them. Legolas and Gimli had commented more than a few times on the captain's similarity to their friend, King Elessar of Gondor. On Boromir's left sat Tolmoth, the captain of his guard. There were other members of Faramir's cabinet in attendance as well. Most of them were Rangers; all of them were seasoned warriors.
When all had reached their seats Faramir rose, and all became silent. "Today grave news has been delivered to us by Prince Boromir. As you are all aware Gimli, son of Gloin, has been kidnapped from the halls of Khazad- bizar. Worse yet, many dwarves and men of Ithilien lost their lives today in the skirmish. Not since the war for the ring of power have I had to inform so many of the death of a loved one. It is a dreadful duty to bear.
"Boromir and his remaining men have given me a detailed account of what they witnessed in the mine. The attack was short, and only those who attempted to stop the elves were killed. With this in mind it seems clear to me what it is these elves desire. They wish to lure Prince Legolas out of the protection of Minas Mallen. To what end I cannot say. However, the letter sent from King Thranduil, the father of Legolas, seems to infer they would use Legolas in turn to provoke Thranduil.
"I see by some of your faces that the rumor that elves had committed these acts was not necessarily believed by all. In truth, I would have also thought it a jest in the poorest of taste if not for the accounts from my own son. These murderers are indeed elves, though not like any elf I have ever known of. Boromir has provided Legolas with descriptions of the elves, but Legolas could say nothing of their identities based on this. Know only this: these elves have dark hair and dark eyes, and all seem to wear long black robes. All else regarding our enemy must wait until the arrival of King Thranduil.
"But whoever these elves may be we will not easily be persuaded by their devices. Ithilien is not going to be bullied into giving up even one of her sons or daughters for the promise of peace. Yet, we cannot abandon Gimli. This morning as soon as I first heard the news I dispatched Danethil and with him two other Rangers to search for signs of the elves passing from Khazad-bizar. They will send word if there is any sign of the dwarf's whereabouts, but they will not be the only ones.
"I have not the words to tell of the greatness of such a warrior as Master Gimli. He has proven great bravery and valor in defending all of Middle- earth. The work Master Gimli and his dwarves have done to help re-build Ithilien is an immeasurable feat. He is a strong leader and a friend to all. His absence is a great hurt to all the peoples of Ithilien, and it is insufferable to those who were close to the dwarf.
"So, we must use our heads as well as our courage and steadfastness in order to hunt out his captors and return Gimli safely to Khazad-bizar. I have spoken with some of you already regarding the intentions of our enemy. We are all agreed that Gimli is being used to lure Prince Legolas out of the protection of Minas Mallen. For this reason I cannot allow him to leave the citadel, though it pains me to ask this of you. Yet I and all within my realm would suffer the more were you also to fall prey to the enemy."
Legolas nodded in acquiescence though his heart was heavy. This was what he had expected.
The Prince continued. "I have asked Galwaith for 50 of his Rangers. Each will lead a search party of 8 men to the far corners of Ithilien and in some cases beyond our borders. This will diminish the number of our soldiers, but Prince Legolas has offered his elven warriors to guard Minas Mallen and so help to offset the fewer numbers. All those who will be traveling into danger should know that their families are guarded and safe.
"Our enemy is strong, and we know little of their ways, for they do not seem to follow the ways of the elves we have known. But they know little of us either, and that may prove to be their downfall for we are a fierce people when attacked. If they think us weak and slow in our peaceful realm then they will soon find out otherwise. And they may also find that the good peoples of Ithilien have many allies who will stand beside us and fight with us, and we will prevail." Faramir drew his sword and laid it upon the table tip facing the center. "Long Live Ithilien!!!", he shouted.
The men at the table rose and placed their swords in similar fashion, and together they responded, "Long Live Ithilien! Ithilien, the fair!!!"
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Legolas sat cross-legged on the bed staring at the backs of the two guards standing on the balcony. His mind was feverishly devising plans for escape and just as quickly discarding them. He had to remind himself that these were Rangers, and the silent footfalls of the elven race would not be enough to elude these men. He had considered rendering them unconscious with a quick blow to the head, but even if he could have managed to accomplish this, which he doubted, he did not wish any harm to these men. And so he sat, deep in thought, unwilling to accept his confinement, and desperately searching for a way out.
A knock at his door roused him. Aldaluin, the captain of his personal guard, entered the room flanked by three other elves. Aldaluin was tall even for an elf, and his gray eyes were always serious. Legolas did not remember ever seeing him smile or laugh, but his father had said that all happiness had fled from the elf when his wife had been killed during the Battle of Dagorlad. The elf's skills with a sword were unsurpassed by any being known to Legolas, and though he still found the idea of a personal guard ridiculous he slept more easily knowing Aldaluin was on the watch. "Prince Legolas, I know the hour is late, but we had hoped to speak with you of some important matters."
Legolas rose from the bed. "Of course, Aldaluin, please come in." The captain entered flanked by two other elves of Legolas's guard, Firith and Lalaith. Where Aldaluin was stern and stone-faced these two elves were known for their mirth and easy-going natures. Their laughter could be heard throughout Edhil-e-londe when the elves had abided there, and they constantly traded witty insults and cutting remarks about one another's abilities in every aspect of battle and life. The male and female were constant companions, and Legolas had a suspicion that they cared for each other a bit more than either would like to let on. But any who mistook their relaxed personalities for easy prey soon found themselves staring down the shaft of an arrow or felt the cold touch of a blade held at their throat. They were a deadly pair.
The fourth elf was a surprise to the prince. Serewen had entered behind the three dressed in the garb of a warrior. Luvien's long knife hung at her waist, and she wore a tunic and leggings, not her usual gown. Her husband had been a warrior, but as far as Legolas knew Serewen was skilled in weaving and needlework, not combat.
All four elves bowed their heads to their prince. Legolas nodded in return, "Welcome, all." He looked upon Serewen with empathy. It had now been more than two months since her husband's murder, and though the guilty had been discovered nothing had been done to bring them to justice as of yet "It is good to see you again, Serewen."
"And you, your Highness," she nodded, but their was a coldness in her eyes.
"Would any of you care for some wine or other refreshments?"
Before the others could respond Aldaluin said, "Yes, your Highness. Some wine would be good for us all."
Legolas went to the door and asked one of the guards to have some wine brought to them. Then he turned to face his guests, "What important matters do you wish to discuss?"
Aldaluin and the others had moved towards the back of the room where they appeared to be admiring a tapestry, which depicted Caras Galadon in Lothlorien. It was exquisite, and had in fact been made by Serewen herself as a gift for Prince Legolas. More importantly, Legolas reasoned, they had positioned themselves as far from the guards on the balcony as possible.
Legolas fell in beside Aldaluin. The captain motioned at the wall hanging with his hand, but he did not speak of this. Instead, with a voice so low Legolas had to strain to hear, he began, "I would hazard a guess, my Lord, that you are at this very moment working a plan of escape for yourself." The prince kept his face still and betrayed nothing of his thoughts to Aldaluin. "Do not worry, we are not here to dissuade you from this. In fact, we are here to accompany you on your journey."
Legolas still betrayed no emotion on his face, but he was encouraged by Aldaluin's words. The elf continued, "We have horses and provisions hidden on the forest not far from here, and we have a plan to steal away unnoticed. Even now it has begun, look to your balcony."
Legolas turned slowly and saw a changing of the guard on his balcony, but this was not unusual it being midnight, the appointed time for fresh guards to take their places. He shot a questioning look at Aldaluin. "Come, let us welcome the new guard."
The five elves moved to the balcony where the two Rangers stood. As they neared Aldaluin called softly, "Hail, Tolmoth. Hail, Gerath."
The two Rangers turned, and Tolmoth spoke, "Hail, Prince Legolas. Hail, Aldaluin. All has been prepared, but we must not tarry. The two guards we replaced will undoubtedly question their captain about the change of guard, and then our deception will be discovered. Come." They descended the stairs, and Legolas followed knowing questions would have to wait until they could escape from the city. Tolmoth took them up and down many stairways to avoid balconies from which they might be discovered. Soon they reached the arboretum on the ground floor. It was deserted at this late hour, and Tolmoth guided them along the outer wall until they reached a large tapestry depicting the Falls of Rauros; another of Serewen's creations, Legolas noted.
Tolmoth lifted the edge of the tapestry revealing a smooth wall of marble. The Ranger moved to the center of the wall and pushed with one hand. A doorway opened up revealing a long staircase leading down. Tolmoth took a torch from the side of the wall and lit it from one of the nearby braziers then returning to the hidden entrance he motioned for all to follow him. When they were all inside Gerath silently closed the hidden door behind them.
The first fifty spans of the stairway were made of the blue marble, but this ended abruptly and was replaced with sheer rock. The seven of them continued down that stair for some time. Legolas had not known about the hidden doorway, but he suspected Gimli was behind its design. It occurred to him that the dwarf had likely delighted in knowing something Legolas did not, and the elf would have liked to speak to him of this, but he had no doubt that Gimli had been ordered by Faramir to discuss the secret passage with no one.
After about ten minutes they reached the bottom and a tunnel ran seemingly endlessly to their right. The party started through the tunnel, and Aldaluin finally spoke. "I am sorry, my Lord, that I could not give you more detail before we left, but the plan was made in haste, and there was not enough time to impart this to you in full." Legolas nodded in understanding and Aldaluin continued. "After this evening's meeting Boromir with four of his Rangers sought me out. They advised me of what had been said at the meeting, and also of something else; Prince Faramir had appointed his son as the head of the guard for Minas Mallen. Prince Boromir refused the appointment and asked his father if he might instead lead one of the search parties for Gimli. Faramir refused.
"Boromir found this plan to be insufferable, and so thinking that you might also be of like mind regarding your situation he came to me. I, of course, advised him that I was sure you would attempt to leave tonight, but I did not think you would succeed. Boromir then offered this plan. He would have two of his own guard to replace the one's at your balcony at the time of the changing of the guard. Since he had been made head of the guard here in the citadel his orders would have to be followed, but Rangers are suspicious of everything. I am certain the guards we replaced will ask questions, and soon your absence will be discovered.
"This tunnel was constructed by the dwarves as a means for escape in case Minas Mallen were ever overrun by enemies. I did not know of its existence, as I am sure you did not, until only an hour ago. Only the Royal Family, the captains of their personal guard, and Gimli had knowledge of it. We have come far underground, well below the level of the moat, and we will ascend one other staircase that will bring us into the forests about two leagues east of Amon Galen. Boromir and two others of his guard await us there with the horses, food, and our weapons."
Legolas was stunned. This evening he had been planning for escape, alone, and without help. He did not think he would even be able to acquire a horse or food, and now all had been prepared and he would be searching for Gimli with the aid of five trained Rangers and three elven warriors, and Serewen. Her presence still puzzled the elf-prince. "Thank you all for what you have done. I cannot thank you enough, though I fear even if we survive to find Gimli, we shall all be banished from Ithilien for disobeying Prince Faramir. Especially in placing the crown prince in harm's way."
All of the company remained silent at the elf's statement, but none slowed as they made their way through the tunnel. They had made their decisions before this and accepted the consequences of what may come.
Legolas moved closer to Aldaluin and whispered in his ear, "What of Serewen? Why has she come with?"
At this Aldaluin looked somewhat distressed, "She came to me soon after word of Gimli's capture. She said she knew you would try and escape to help find him, and she wanted to come with. I tried to persuade her otherwise, but she would not listen." Aldaluin looked uncomfortable for a moment, "She said that I of all people would not deny her the right to seek vengeance on those who had killed Luvien. I told her that those not skilled in battle would be more of a hindrance than a help, but she claimed to be skilled in the use of weaponry. I tested her with a sword, and she is more than skilled, and so I granted her request."
Legolas nodded and said no more. Perhaps Aldaluin's sympathies had played into the decision, but he would never have allowed her to come if he did not think her able to defend herself.
They continued down the tunnel for the better part of an hour, and finally came to the steps Aldaluin had spoken of. These were not as long as the ones they had descended and soon they arrived at a trap door. Tolmoth knocked on the door three times, twice again, then four times, and then he slowly opened the door. The moon was new and so the forest seemed black. Tolmoth extinguished the torch and they were all plunged into darkness.
"Hail, Tolmoth," Legolas heard the hearty voice of young Boromir, "How does it feel to be a fugitive?"