For a time, peace reigned again in Middle-Earth, and the light of Anar
covered the land. But though the One Ring was centuries lost, the shadow of
Sauron bided his time deep in Amon Amarth. Ever in the Dark Lord's mind was
the desire to rule supreme so desperate, that Sauron sought to overtake all
the kingdoms of Middle-Earth, great and small, with or without the One
Ring. Scores of armies were thus sent into the world to enslave what lands
and passes they might, and set the way for new armies behind them. All
means of creatures were so employed, enslaved by Sauron's very will, and
all manners of lies were used to separate and divide the free peoples of
Middle-Earth against each other so they might be overtaken with littler
efforts. And of these creatures, none was more evil or cunning than Rakal
the Deceiver, giver of death and despair, and Sauron was well-pleased with
his evil minion and all his deeds. For even as Sauron was to Morgoth, so
was Rakal to Sauron. Ever on stealth and secrecy did Sauron rely, and few
even had knowledge of Rakal's existence, so complete were his triumphs,
that he left no living thing in his wake.
And so for many years a deluded peace prevailed upon the free lands of Middle-Earth, and the people were unaware of the breadth and extent of Sauron's reach. But the immortal elves were not so easily deceived, for being wise and enduring themselves, they had become weary of Sauron's malice on the land, and were not lulled into the oblivious tranquility of peace. Ever watchful for signs of impending threat were they, and Sauron could not fool them. Thus, deep in the forests of Mirkwood, the mighty King Thranduil pondered on these heavy thoughts, for errant reports of an unknown menace filtered slowly to his throne, yet none stepped forward to say,
"Yea oh mighty king! I have seen the threat!"
At last he called to council his most trusted lords, and his son, Legolas was with them, and he said to them,
"Of the vanquished Sauron there are but few tidings. Yet the unceasing thought of his treachery grows within me. And we have seen no emissary or visitor to our fair wood to bring us news of the world to allay my doubts. It is time then to send a group forth from our borders to gather what knowledge they may of the outside lands and see firsthand how fairs our neighbors of the free earth."
The council discussed this plan, and it was deemed wise. At length Legolas arose and said to his father,
"If it pleases you, my lord, I will go with Illdinar and Kerrinais. For it seems that 3 travelers alone may be less detected than an army. If the peace that prevails is truth or false deception, we will discover it, and I will bring back to you a rightful account."
So it was decided that Legolas, Kerrinais, and Illdinar should go from the safe boundaries of Mirkwood to the kingdoms of the north passes to hold councils with King Olandin the Fearsome of Euphratas and also the kings of the smaller princely states of Irwindal and Tuluth.
They set out on their journey upon a damp, misty morning. Down the wide and steep path, each made his way to the ancient stone gateway of the city. Towering above the great archway stood oak trees, tall and noble, as if standing guard to King Thranduil's kingdom. Kerrinais carried with him his bow and quiver of arrows, which was richly adorned with silver scroll and the softest leather. Illdinar, border sentry of Mirkwood also carried bow and arrow, but much preferred his sword, Menea, which he kept lovingly at his side. It was a fine elven blade, which gleamed bright silver in light of day or darkness. The sword, a gift of old, passed down to him through his mother's house, was his most prized possession, and Illdinar kept it in a fine leather sheath that hung at his belt. The hilt was also covered, for even with this, it glowed silver from within, through the finest cracks in the sheath. Finally, Legolas came from his father, his quiver of arrows secured to his back by leather straps with brightly polished silver buckles over his chest and shoulder. A silver elven blade, sheathed and secured in like manner to his back, straddled the side of his quiver. Behind him, ambled Legolas's horse, Neonean, a noble, pale-gray mare.
Her magnificent mane, braided twice behind her right ear, signified her allegiance to the elves of Mirkwood. Her fiery blue eyes followed Legolas's every move as they walked to the gate. On her back, Neonean carried supplies for the journey. Several sacks filled with fruits, herbs and the elven waybread, Lembas, wrapped in mallorn leaves, and were strapped tightly together.
The 3 elves set out through the great forest, following the trail of Asha. At that time of year, the trees surrounding this ancient trail bore much fruit. The trail closely followed the tributaries that spun off the forest river, winding slowly south, until it left Mirkwood altogether and eventually became part of the Anduin. The river provided the party with ample fish and water to drink. They ate from the bounty of the forest, saving their supplies for the road away from Mirkwood, for none knew how they would be received. Seldom did the elves venture away from their own lands and into the foreign kingdoms, as they were called. Neonean followed closely behind Legolas, needing no halter or reins, so aware of his mind was she, that she never strayed a great distance from him, and would come to him at once when he beckoned her. Of great stature she was, and could easily carry all three elves had they a mind to ride. However, all preferred the path on foot, the luxurious green wood mosses beneath their feet.
They followed the trail southwards until it intersected with the old forest road (Men-i-Naugrim), which cut through the center of Mirkwood, east to west. They stopped at the bridge of Cadea, the turning point to the West, and sat by the quiet riverbank under a mighty oak tree to rest.
"If we stayed to the forest road," said Illdinar, "We could rest at Rhosgabel at the forest's edge. From there it is but 10 leagues to the Old Ford on the Anduin River. Euphratas is not far from there."
Illdinar tugged his water skin from one of the sacks that Neonean carried. It was packed so tightly that the entire sack moved on her back as he pulled it free. Neonean spun her great head about and nudged Illdinar, as if to reproach him for his forcefulness. Illdinar did not move, but playfully patted Neonean on her forehead between her eyes. She neighed and shook her head, but seemed appeased at the attention and began to munch unconcerned on some soft river grasses. Kerrinais leaned back onto the grass and stared up the trunk of the great tree and into the sky beyond.
"There is some wisdom in traveling to Euphratas first," Kerrinais said, "King Olandin is farthest to the east and would receive us best I think. If there should be disorder in the kingdoms beyond, we would surely hear of it there. If there is no news, then we might even travel to Sillaris at the northern most corners of the brown lands." Legolas stared aimlessly out to the great stretch of road beyond the old wooden bridge.
"I do not think we will need to journey as far as that," he said, "My father has not commanded us to venture further than Euphratas. If we keep to the trail of Asha, the forest river will stay with us almost to the borders of Irwindal. Tuluth would then be only 2 or 3 leagues to the south. King Gillindon of Irwindal is no friend to our kindred, yet he has no cause to despise us."
Illdinar shook his head doubtfully.
"King Gillindon has never sent a friendly emissary to our wood, Legolas. He has sent no offering of friendship to King Thranduil."
"But neither has he proved to be other than a friend, and he has struck no blow to our forests," Legolas reminded him.
"I have heard," said Kerrinais, "That King Gillindon keeps his own forest for his people because he will not give leave to cut wood of the eldar, and even offers it for shelter to the passing guests who prefer trees to castle stones."
"There you see," grinned Legolas, "Our guesthouse is ready made at Irwindal. Let us leastways go there and to Euphratas. Tuluth is but a day's journey from Irwindal, and we may might venture there while keeping camp in King Gillindon's forest, if we are received well."
And so they set out once again, remaining on the trail of Asha as before, passing no other creatures in the forest. When the light began to fade away on the eighth day, the three friends were but two leagues from the edge of Mirkwood. They made camp in a small glade, away from the river's edge. Kerrinais and Illdinar sat facing the fire as Legolas carefully unwrapped a bread loaf. This was their first meal using their lembas. They had little time to fish that day, and none were of a mind to catch something now. Legolas closed his eyes for a moment, whispered in elvish before breaking off a small piece of the waybread and handing it to Illdinar. The elf leaned forward, smiling slightly as he took the bread, and bit into it. Legolas then handed a piece to Kerrinais, who put it down on his leather water skin. Kerrinais stood up and walked a few paces to where Neonean stood, and began untangling her long mane.
"Come eat," said Illdinar, "For the trail has been long and we need to rest. Neonean may forgive you for ignoring her till the dawn comes."
"If I ignore her, then surely Legolas will have taken my place by morning," Kerrinais replied. As if to announce her preference, Neonean at once whinnied, shaking her long mane out of Kerrinais's hand.
"Apparently, she prefers Legolas to all," Illdinar mused, "Come Kerrinais, come and eat." Kerrinais paid little attention to Illdinar's request. Instead he gently picked up a lock of Neonean's mane, and began to untangle it again. Legolas grinned as he watched Neonean shake her mighty head away from the elf, ripping her mane from his hand. Each time Kerrinais patiently picked up the lock of mane and continued where he left off. Suddenly, the smile faded from Legolas and he sat up straight while looking around the glade. Almost at the same time, Kerrinais let go of Neonean's mane, and also gazed to the dark forest as well.
"Can you feel it," Legolas said to Illdinar. The elf slowly placed his water skin on the ground next to him.
"It is as though something has suddenly been placed in our midst," said Kerrinais walking over to the fire, "Perhaps we should find another place to camp tonight." Legolas looked up into the trees, peering through uppermost branches to the half moon, which was slowly rising in the night sky. The branches swayed and lurched in the cool night wind. He suddenly realized that Neonean had walked away from the camp while he searched the woods from above, and was now nowhere to be seen. Illdinar began to stand, but Legolas held out his arm to prevent him from moving.
"There is no sound, " Legolas said, half alarmed, "No chirp of a cricket, no bird or toad. All is silent." The three elves sat pensively for several minutes, not moving or speaking, but turned their puzzled heads in every direction. Then, almost simultaneously all eyes fell to the crackling fire in front of them, which began to flicker a bluish-green. At first it was almost too pale to tell, but as they watched, the gleam of color suddenly issued forth, jumping and dancing into the air. From the heat of the bluest flame came a single, tiny butterfly, all bathed in bright royal blue, emanating its own light, no bigger than the end of a finger.
"LOOK!" gasped Illdinar, "A Carner Blue!! This is an ill omen indeed!" No one moved, but all eyes remained fixed upon the tiny creature as it floated and dived around the camp. To Legolas though, it seemed not entirely shocking, and he cocked his head from one side to the other, studying the butterfly in wonderment. He had heard stories and myths about the great portents of the future, and there were but few elven songs speaking of the formidable power of the Carner Blue. Yet, here before him was the very myth of his youth. Almost as if it heard Illdinar speak, the insect floated effortlessly before him, and landed briefly on his tunic. Illdinar's eyes widened, but he remained perfectly still. Then almost as quickly, it became airborne once more and landed on Legolas's flaxen hair. Legolas did not speak, but he saw the strained looks on his companion's faces, and he knew that it was upon him. Finally it alighted for the last time and flew directly into the blue-green flame of the campfire, disappearing in a whiff of widened flames. For some time, the three companions did not stir from their places, but sat watching the campfire. No one moved until Neonean ambled into the camp from the darkness beyond, and nudged Legolas on his back. Unprepared for the mischievous shove, Legolas nearly fell over, the first time this had ever happened, and it seemed to shock him back from his thoughts.
"An ill omen," muttered Illdinar at last. Legolas calmly arose and stroked Neonean's wide neck.
"Perhaps not," said Legolas thoughtfully, "There are some elven songs that speak of the mystical Carner Blue as a bringer of good fortune, but I fear there is no way to tell."
Kerrinais was still transfixed, staring into the flame of the fire.
"I have heard of the omened butterflies, but before this night, I had never seen one," said Kerrinais, "There is rumor that the Carner Blues are emissaries from wizards. However, it does not matter. I am inclined to agree with Legolas. There is no telling the judgment of this, good or ill. But we cannot return to King Thranduil empty-handed of findings. Whatever the outcome of this visitation, we must continue the journey."
The remainder of the night was spent in restless reflection for everyone. Kerrinais and Legolas each chewed a small piece of lembas and also ate some wild blueberries they had picked in a forest clearing. When the half moon was high, Illdinar silently left the camp, and roamed in the woods to clear his thoughts. But he carried Menea with him, and wherever he went, his companions needed only to look into the dark forest, and they could see their companion by the faint silver glow of the blade.
By the sun's first golden light, the mood in the camp was uplifted, and they continued the journey towards the small kingdom of Irwindal. The day passed by without incident, and at last they came to the straight at the forest edge. From this point, the elves would have to follow the forest river tributary closely, for the trail of Asha ended at the border of Mirkwood. The river then emptied into the larger Anduin, just north of the river Gladden. At the ford between the tributary and the Anduin, the three travelers turned northward, for Irwindal was now but 3 or 4 leagues away. The city was less than a day's journey from them, but all could clearly see the ominous blackened area in the distance. It was a stark contrast to the greens and subdued browns of the rest of the plain horizon.
"Is the city under attack?" asked Illdinar, straining his eyes. Legolas looked to the right and left of the scorched area, as though he were trying to get a better view.
"I do not think so," said Kerrinais, "I do not see any movement on the plain, neither army nor stragglers. Nothing." Neonean reared her mighty head and neighed, and Legolas stepped forward, putting his hand on her muzzle. He spoke quiet elvish words to her, and she fell silent.
"We could bypass the city, and then go directly to Euphratas. King Thranduil commanded us to bring news only, not to venture into a battle." Legolas shook his head.
"We should go to Irwindal and see what has happened," said Legolas, "There may be some survivors. We will take them with us to Euphratas. It would save King Olandin the trouble of assembling a rescue."
Illdinar unsheathed Menea, and both Legolas and Kerrinais readied bow and arrow. The traveling progressed slower now. As they went, they scoped all the lands around them for signs of attack or ambush, but there was none. At length they came to an enormous swath of crushed mud, appearing from the south and continuing north. Legolas stopped at the edge of the huge trail, and looked at the large, wide track prints.
"They came from the south," Legolas said, his face showing his concern.
"They had at least several hundred horses," said Kerrinais looking about, "An attack from Tuluth?" Legolas shook his head.
"No....that makes no sense. The 3 kings of the blue cities are all allied, and guard the pass between Mirkwood and the mountains. No, this is something else. Look at these footprints, they are too wide and heavy for a mortal man, even one who is armored. The tracks are too deep."
"Orcs?" questioned Illdinar. The mere mention of the word seemed to leave a bad taste in his mouth. Legolas looked up at him, knowing that he had guessed correctly, yet he did not reply.
"Why would they come this far north?" said Kerrinais, "To what end could this mean? These kingdoms are small, save for Euphratas, and they would be only a little victory." Legolas looked at Kerrinais and stood up.
"To the Dark Lord, no kingdom is too small to overthrow. If all the smaller kingdoms of the land are taken, then half of Middle-Earth will be his. If this indeed is the beginning of a siege of the pass here, we must find out quickly."
They continued all that night, and into the next day, only stopping to drink from their water skins and eat from their reserves. Not even Neonean drank from the abundant Anduin that flowed freely only a few hundred yards from them. The orcs had traveled near the water, and may even yet be poisoning it from some unknown point upstream. Legolas poured handfuls of water from his container and let Neonean lap from his hand. Just after midday, they arrived on the outskirts of the forests of Irwindal. The trees were blackened to mere stumps from a great fire that had been set to them. Not one remained unscathed. As they made their way to the city beyond, they began finding the burned remains of the people of Irwindal, those who had first escaped the initial onslaught and ran for sanctuary into the woodlands. Here they were pursued and engulfed by the great fire that was lit to all areas of the forest. They continued on through the remains of the ravaged woodland trail, watchful of everything surrounding them, but there was only the foul scent of burning decay and smoke. The small trail emptied out to a road that led directly to the city, once filled with commerce and traders, now silent and still. Up the hill they continued towards the castle, which majestically overlooked the city, its outer walls now crumbled and ruined. Peering into windows and through doorways, there was no survivor of the attack, only the dead. Illdinar spoke at last. Bending over, he pulled a single arrow from a small dog that lay in the street.
"They even killed the animals," said Illdinar, examining the arrow, "Orcs of Gorthaur, of this there is no doubt. But look at the arrow. A strange color of red there is to the shaft. Is it poisoned? Not of flower or clay of the soil. I have not seen the like of it."
He placed it on the road silently, so as not to make a sound. As they approached the great gateway to the castle, they stopped to peer over the edge of a large trench. There at the base and piled high, were the remains of the fallen orc warriors. The dead of the enemy had been gathered and burned before the army left. Clearly the defense of the city had been savage. Neonean reared her head once again, but Legolas quickly raised his hand, and she fell quiet. Carefully, they continued on. Although the wooden doorways leading into the castle were heavy, none remained unopened. None remained unbroken. At the base of the great stone stairway, Legolas spoke softly to Neonean, and she obediently remained behind as the trio continued up into the main halls of the castle. Through every hallway they checked, weapons drawn.
Legolas stepped over a heavy wooden door that was literally torn off its hinges, and peered into the room beyond. Furniture was broken and thrown across the room. Some heavier pieces had been piled against the doorway, but the brace did not hold. Delicate, shimmering silks, now dirtied and spoiled, were torn from the huge bedposts. Even the mattress from the bed had been ripped apart by a huge knife. Broken vases and glass covered the floor. Legolas looked about the room in awe of the particular savagery that had occurred. Then he noticed something of interest, and nimbly jumped over a heavy bureau to approach the window.
With his left hand he picked up a small bit of rope, one end of it tied to the base of the heavy bed, leading up to the window and out. He peered out over the wall, which dropped a hundred feet. Little of the rope remained. It had been burned from below, and now only 15 feet or so of the line remained intact. Further down, Legolas could see the remains of a secluded set of trees, charred and bereft of leaves or bark, and he surmised the owner of the room had attempted to make their escape from that rope. He looked at the fields beyond, which bordered the ruined bigger forest, and imagined what a pleasant room it must have been. One would only need to awake at first daylight and look out that window onto the dewed morning grasses, now trodden down, and gaze further out the beauty of the great forest of Irwindal. Suddenly, he heard a soft, almost muted noise from behind. Legolas whirled around in an instant, an arrow fitted to his bow, ready to fly. But it was only Kerrinais, carefully lifting a heavy swath of cloth that had been cast aside during the fight. Legolas relaxed his arm, and carefully stepped towards his friend. He was bending over the body of a woman, laying face up under the coverlet.
"I thought someone had escaped," Legolas said looking at her, sighing, "There is a rope attached to the bed which hangs out the window." Kerrinais put his hand to her mouth to see if he could detect her breath. There was none. Legolas considered her smoke covered and beaten face. He thought she would have been pretty in life, but such thoughts were quickly erased as he saw the many wounds that she had sustained.
"She never had a chance to escape," he thought to himself.
"The king's daughter? This room is certainly one of the family quarters," said Kerrinais.
"I don't know," replied Legolas, "The attack on the city was swift and without warning, yet she must have heard something. She barricaded herself inside, and attempted a retreat."
"Look at this," Kerrinais said, gingerly lifting the woman's arm. Legolas bent closer. As Kerrinais held up her arm, Legolas could see her palm covered with blood as though she had dipped it in red paint. Below her arm, a perfect handprint was left on the floor next to where she lay. Pain seemed to cross Legolas's face as a new revelation came to him.
"She knew she was going to die," he whispered solemnly. Kerrinais placed her arm back in its original position, and replaced the coverlet.
At that moment, Illdinar appeared in the doorway to the room. He stepped in slightly, gazing around the room and then at his companions.
"I have searched the great hall, and the remainder of the enclave, but there is no sign of the King. He may have escaped somehow."
"And leave his daughter to her doom?" asked Kerrinais, lifting up the coverlet to show the dead woman underneath. Illdinar looked at the woman in pity as Kerrinais once again covered her face.
"I do not believe he did," said Legolas, "I do not think anyone survived this onslaught. Not even an animal or tree was spared. Either the king was taken prisoner or he was killed like the others."
"It seems unlikely that the orcs would wreck the kingdom and then take the king prisoner. And why did they not leave a troop behind?" replied Illdinar. Kerrinais stood up and looked around the room.
"We should hasten to Tuluth in the South. That is the nearest city, and any survivors would go there."
They left the room just as the final beams of sunlight were waning in the distance. They returned to the stone stairway, where Neonean stood patiently waiting for their return. Legolas patted her neck as he went past her, and she placidly turned and followed them out to the city road. They left the city in the darkness, following a large outlet until it emptied into the Anduin. Here they chose to rest at the great river.
The sound of the rushing water was a comfort to them, and they all were tired and forlorn from their grim discovery. That night, no fire was lit. After eating a small meal of dried fruit and lembas, Kerrinais and Illdinar each retreated to a secluded area, and their soft elvish songs for the dead could be detected only by Legolas's keen ears. But Legolas did not sing a lament. Instead, he spoke a short elven prayer for the trees that were sundered, and after some time and much deliberation, he spoke another prayer for the dead woman in the royal apartment of the castle.
They started out before the sun rose on the next day, moving silently along the river's edge, passing through the remains of the great forest. Legolas once again spoke a prayer for the fallen trees. They continued and at length came to where they had crossed the ford at the Anduin. They headed for the small area of Tuluth, which almost rested upon the river Gladden. As before, the wrenching stench of death and decay found them long before they actually came to the city. And as with Irwindal, the entire city was devastated and left to rot. Once again, the three elves investigated any standing buildings, but nothing was left. They met in the center square, just as night was once again falling over the mountains.
"Did you find anything?" Kerrinais asked Illdinar as he approached. Illdinar shook his head.
"It is plain that an orc army is taking all the lands up and down the river pass, and wreaking havoc in its wake. Do we now take this news to Mirkwood or do we follow them?"
"I think," said Legolas, "That the battle in Irwindal was recent. If we hasten to Euphratas, we could warn King Olandin or at least gain some knowledge of how many of the enemy there are. Then, if we may, we could bring news to my father. It is worrisome that such an army is little more than 15 leagues from the borders of Mirkwood. But for all my questions, at least I am sure that this army marches to Euphratas."
"Then let us make haste," replied Kerrinais, "Let us make all possible speed to Euphratas to discover the size of this army and to warn King Olandin. But I fear now that we have wasted valuable time."
Even as the blackness of night stretched its cloak over the land, Kerrinais, Legolas, and Illdinar hastened to the river trail on the Anduin. They ran with all swiftness, the pressing need to warn the northern-most kingdom on the great river always in their minds. After some hours, it was even difficult for Neonean to maintain the pace. The next morning the trio passed the still blackened forest of Irwindal and they continued up the west bank of the Anduin. It was a 7-day journey to the Old Ford that intersected the Anduin and the city of Euphratas. They neither slept nor took camp. On the third night, they traveled slower when a pelting rain poured over the hills. Arriving at a small clump of thick trees, Kerrinais stopped and gathered several huge leaves from one of the overhanging branches. He then fashioned a sort of cone that he held in his hand to catch the rainwater. Water quickly dripped out from cracks in the bottom, between the leaves, but it was raining so hard, that only a few minutes passed before the bowl was halfway filled. Kerrinais sipped from the edge of leaves and brought it directly to Legolas, who gladly sipped from the cup as well. Illdinar then drank, before returning the cup to Kerrinais. Holding the cone out to the downpour, Kerrinais filled it again. He also retrieved all three of their water skins and with much care, began to cautiously fill each. Legolas handed Illdinar a Mallorn leaf containing the remainder of a lembas loaf. He cupped his hand over the end of the bread, attempting to keep it from getting drenched. Neonean did not mind the downpour, and contently stood in the middle of a small field, munching on some wet grass. Legolas sat beside Illdinar, and adjusted his quiver belt. When the rain had subsided, they began their journey again, holding close to the river.
In the early morning on the 7th day from Tuluth, the trio arrived in the blue hills region. In the distance, the screams of terror and panic of the people could be heard, of clashing swords and armor, of wailing horses and the cries of men and women. Great billows of smoke rose in the distance as farm houses burned. Kerrinais and Legolas crawled on their bellies to peer over the crest of the hill, hidden by the large boulders that littered the landscape.
"We are too late," whispered Kerrinais, "The city is already under attack!"
"We must find the King if we can," whispered Legolas, "The main siege is approaching from the west. We will try to enter from the east portion, by the river."
"There are too many of them," whispered Kerrinais doubtfully, "We should ride to Mirkwood with all haste and tell the your father of this."
"No," replied Legolas breathing deeply, "We retrieve the King of Euphratas. He perhaps knows who assails the lands. We must know what this foul army plans to do next."
They crawled back to where Illdinar waited, holding Neonean's great head in his arm. Legolas sprang to his feet, and began ripping away at the supply bags, tossing them to the ground.
"We must retrieve the king," ordered Legolas jumping to Neonean's back, "I will try to reach the battlement from the North side, and see if there is a retreat. Kerrinais, look to the Southeastern shore entrance to the castle. Illdinar, stay hidden and keep watch, we must know which way the army turns...east to Mirkwood or west to Isodor and Rivendell. We meet here at nightfall!" Illdinar nodded, and with a whisper to Neonean, the horse reeled around on its slender legs and road away. Kerrinais, bow at the ready, stealthily slipped down the rock face. Then, running across a smoldering field, he came to the first burning house and disappeared behind a battered and broken doorway.
Legolas rode swiftly back to where the river, with its tall reeds and moors, provided cover. As they approached the the castle, Legolas slumped over Neonean's back, making the appearance of a warrior struck down in the battle. His long, blond hair covered his face, but all the while he whispered directions in elvish to his horse. At the northernmost gate, the bombardment had already crashed through. The remaining soldiers were busily engaged against squealing orcs in hand-to-hand battle. Legolas had nearly cleared the gate in this manner when an orc, bathed in blood and laughing wretchedly, ran up to Neonean and pulled savagely at Legolas's leg to drag him off the great steed.
"I won't eat you," he hissed, "But your horse has some meat on it and I've haven't had a good meal for days! She looks tasty!"
Legolas instantly sprang up, kicking the shocked and bewildered orc to the ground. In less than a moment, Legolas fit an arrow to his long elven bow and let it fly, hitting the orc squarely between the eyes. The element of disguise being over, a rush of orcs now assailed him. Legolas yelled to Neonean. She leaped into the air, and charged up the large, wide stairway. Scores of orcs fell to either side in a great wave before the bellowing horse as she raced forward. Legolas held to her sides with his legs, letting arrows fly in all directions, slaying each orc where it stood. Coming to the top of the stairway, Legolas came to a small landing, with another doorway. This one was opened but not broken. Bending low, he rode his horse through the opening, dismounted, and shut the heavy door, replacing its heavy wooden bolt. A throng of angry orc warriors pounded at the door as Legolas rode deeper into the bowels of the castle.
Nimbly mounting Neonean again, he continued down the corridor, pulling his long silver knife from its sheath, slashing down the hideous, contorted orcs as they jumped out of doorways at him. All along the hallway and into the main hall Legolas rode, finding nothing but the slain and those of the orc army that had left the outside battle to pillage the interior of the castle. Through the rooms he raced, until he came to the throne room. At the far end, by the opposite entrance, Kerrinais had already arrived and was fighting two large orcs, a sword in each hand. Legolas jumped off Neonean and ran headlong into the fight, catching one off its guard, slashing its throat in one fell swoop. The remaining orc whirled around, hitting Legolas squarely in the chest with the butt of his iron blade, knocking him off his feet. Kerrinais pushed forward with both blades, driving the hideous creature back and into the center of the room. Here he fought the monster, swords clanging, sparks flying. But as the creature backed away, it lost its footing, tangled in the fallen banner of the king. Kerrinais seized the moment of advantage, running the creature through. It fell with a pained yowl to the floor, but laughed at Kerrinais, who stood before him breathing hard.
"You cursed thing!!" he grimaced, "Rakal will finish your kind when he's finished here! He'll cut you up and leave nothing but pieces!"
Kerrinais grabbed him roughly by the collar, pulling him off his knees.
"Where is Rakal taking the army next?" Kerrinais ordered. The orc let out a hideous laugh and gurgled. Kerrinais raised his sword above the orcs swollen head.
"Where there is no defense!! He will eat the hearts of his slaves. No one escapes!" he grinned evilly.
In a final effort, the orc grabbed for Kerrinais's sword arm, but Kerrinais was stronger and pushed the sword instead into the great orc's chest. The orc slumped over and was dead. Kerrinais let go of the orc's collar and it fell limp to the ground. Then turning around, he walked towards Legolas, who was bending over a woman. With a quick movement, Legolas pulled an arrow from her, and held it up to Kerrinais as he approached.
"The same red arrow from Irwindal," said Legolas, letting it fall to the floor.
"The king is dead," breathed Kerrinais, "He lies in one of the smaller chambers." Legolas looked down at the woman.
"Legolas," said Kerrinais, "This is Rakal's army." Legolas stared back at him in disbelief.
"Rakal," Legolas murmured, looking away, "His orcs grow careless...we have made our way into the center of the castle without defeat."
"I believe they mean an attack on an elven city next," Kerrinais said under his breath. Legolas jerked his head around, his mouth slightly open.
"Are you sure of this?" he asked. Kerrinais nodded.
"The beast told me the army goes next where there is no defense," said Kerrinais, "And Mirkwood's borders are well protected. I believe they mean to cross the great pass towards Rivendell. There are fewer warriors there. This is the beginning of the siege on the elven lands, Legolas. We must gather all the elves together that we can in defense of the city. If Rakal comes for war in Isodor or Imladris, then he means to wipe out the mountain elves, but I think he needed the pass along the river cleared...no doubt for another army behind."
"Come," yelled Legolas, running to Neonean, "We ride at once!"
Holding out his arm, Legolas pulled Kerrinais up on Neonean's back behind him, and they galloped off down another large hallway. At length they approached a large door, leading out to the north wall parapet. They burst through the opening, orcs running at them from all sides. Kerrinais, two swords in hand, hacked and slashed at the orcs that jumped at them from the right side. One orc grabbed Neonean by her mane, readying his knife. He swept a large, black arm in the air to strike when Legolas kicked the creature in the face, sending it reeling back. With an invisible flash of his elven sword, the beast fell, its head rolling in the opposite direction. Another came running up from behind, slashing wildly at the horse's legs. Neonean whinnied as she ran, but she did not attempt to kick the creature or throw the elves from her back. They streaked along the lookout to the edge of the parapet.
"The river is deep and swift on the north side," cried Legolas, "Make ready!!"
Kerrinais held tightly onto Legolas's waist, kicking orcs aside as they raced towards the edge. With a giant leap, the horse flew in the air over the side of the battlement, diving with a huge splash into the river below. Kerrinais and Legolas broke the surface of the water amid a volley of arrows, but the current was strong there, and the elves and the horse were pulled swiftly away, where the threat of the orc arrows lessened. Downriver, Neonean had already found her way to the shoreline, and was pulling her great girth from the water. Legolas climbed out. He turned, extending his hand to Kerrinais, pulling him to safety. Once again in the tall reeds, they edged their way back, stopping only once to seclude themselves from an orc patrol. Kerrinais held his knives ready, and Legolas stood under Neonean's neck, holding her muzzle to his shoulder, whispering. The horse slowly knelt down into the mud, and lay on its side, unmoving. The black creatures passed within a few yards of them, but night was waning fast, and the elves could not be seen.
"Rotten slugs!!" one said trudging along through the mud, "They drowned for sure, and now we won't get their weapons!"
"Stop your whining!" argued the other, "There is plenty enough for the likes of you in the castle yet, if you aren't too afraid to fight for it."
The other stopped and grabbed the other by the neck.
"I'll slit you from ear to ear where you stand! Is that brave enough?" he snarled.
The other orc seemed to quail, and put an arm above his head.
"No need for this! The elves are dead in the river. We'll have plenty of elf things after we finish Isodor. I'll tell Rakal myself, and you can take your fill in the castle." The bigger orc threw his companion in the mud and trudged on mumbling. The other followed his companion, pulling himself out of the mire, cursing under his breath. Legolas and Kerrinais looked at each other. The elves watched the two orcs approach the outer wall of the castle. A giant orc, clad in red and black came riding up to them with several other riders behind. The two knelt before his mighty warhorse, the severed heads of the slain hung from rope tied to his saddle.
Kerrinais leaned in and whispered to Legolas.
"That is Rakal, I am sure of it," he said softly. Legolas said nothing but only watched him. A short discourse with the patrol ended with a volley of cursing and yelling. The larger orc jumped to his feet, but Rakal drew a large sword and ran the sentry through, and tossed him aside. The smaller orc turned in terror and ran. Rakal threw down his sword, and reared on his black horse, giving chase. The monstrous orc captain, readying his bow and arrow, aimed a single red shaft at the fleeing minion, and then shot the sentry through the back of its head, the grim red arrow protruding out its eye. It fell dead in the mud. Whirling around on his mount once more, Rakal screamed orders, pointing up the river, and twelve horsed riders galloped off in the direction where Legolas and Kerrinais had jumped off the battlement.
"I want to see their broken bodies!" he screamed, "Don't leave here until you bring them to me!"
When the patrols had stopped, Legolas made a soft, birdlike whistling sound, and Neonean came to life. But the mud was thick by the riverbank, and even Neonean labored to stand. The two elves quickly came to her side and pushed on the horse to help her get to her feet. All of them were mud soaked, but they were alive. They continued quietly to the foothills outside the town to meet Illdinar. They proceeded slowly, with drawn weapons, but no more patrols were encountered. Kerrinais moved on ahead, but coming around the side, he stopped short, dropping his sword. Legolas saw the incredulous stare on his face and a sense of dread overwhelmed him. He ran past Kerrinais to see the ruined devastation of the area. Their supplies had been ransacked and strewn about. This was merely an annoyance to Legolas, but after looking further out, he stopped short. Just beyond the base of the hillside, lying on the wet ground was Illdinar, a single red-shafted arrow protruding from his right eye.
Legolas cried out and ran to him. Kneeling gently beside him, his face contorted with uncontrollable sorrow. Legolas gently smoothed back a lock of Illdinar's hair from his face. Kerrinais came up slowly from behind, bent down on one knee, and murmured a soft elven lament for their fallen friend. Gingerly plucking the arrow from Illdinar, Legolas held it in his hand for a moment before dropping it to the ground. His face grew red with rage, and he leaped to his feet. Kerrinais's eyes widened, and he knew that Legolas meant to run back into the fray to confront Illdinar's killer. He grabbed Legolas as he ran by, wrestling his struggling friend to the ground.
"We have no time for this!!" cried Kerrinais, "Illdinar is dead, Legolas. You can't help him now! We have to warn Isodor and Rivendell that Rakal is coming! Meet him in battle there! Avenge Illdinar there! You can not hope to slay him here and now...the city is taken!"
Legolas glared at Kerrinais, uncontrolled anger in his eyes. He roughly pushed Kerrinais aside, and stood up.
"Let us ride then to Lord Elrond," Legolas said in a low voice.
Walking once more to where Illdinar lay, Legolas bent down on his knee, and placed his trembling hand on Illdinar's shoulder. Then he stood up and surveyed the area. Walking a short distance, he pulled aside a remnant of a linen sack. Beneath it sat the glowing blade of Menea, trampled into the mud. Legolas picked up the white blade and brushed it off with his hand and fitted it into his belt. As he walked by, Kerrinais stretched out his arm, resting his hand on Legolas's arm. The elf stopped, looking into his friend's sad eyes. Legolas struggled to control himself, only nodding. They slowly walked back to where Illdinar lay, and bent down on their knees to murmur elvish prayers. Then mounting Neonean, the two elves galloped west towards the old Ford pass of the Misty Mountains.
And so for many years a deluded peace prevailed upon the free lands of Middle-Earth, and the people were unaware of the breadth and extent of Sauron's reach. But the immortal elves were not so easily deceived, for being wise and enduring themselves, they had become weary of Sauron's malice on the land, and were not lulled into the oblivious tranquility of peace. Ever watchful for signs of impending threat were they, and Sauron could not fool them. Thus, deep in the forests of Mirkwood, the mighty King Thranduil pondered on these heavy thoughts, for errant reports of an unknown menace filtered slowly to his throne, yet none stepped forward to say,
"Yea oh mighty king! I have seen the threat!"
At last he called to council his most trusted lords, and his son, Legolas was with them, and he said to them,
"Of the vanquished Sauron there are but few tidings. Yet the unceasing thought of his treachery grows within me. And we have seen no emissary or visitor to our fair wood to bring us news of the world to allay my doubts. It is time then to send a group forth from our borders to gather what knowledge they may of the outside lands and see firsthand how fairs our neighbors of the free earth."
The council discussed this plan, and it was deemed wise. At length Legolas arose and said to his father,
"If it pleases you, my lord, I will go with Illdinar and Kerrinais. For it seems that 3 travelers alone may be less detected than an army. If the peace that prevails is truth or false deception, we will discover it, and I will bring back to you a rightful account."
So it was decided that Legolas, Kerrinais, and Illdinar should go from the safe boundaries of Mirkwood to the kingdoms of the north passes to hold councils with King Olandin the Fearsome of Euphratas and also the kings of the smaller princely states of Irwindal and Tuluth.
They set out on their journey upon a damp, misty morning. Down the wide and steep path, each made his way to the ancient stone gateway of the city. Towering above the great archway stood oak trees, tall and noble, as if standing guard to King Thranduil's kingdom. Kerrinais carried with him his bow and quiver of arrows, which was richly adorned with silver scroll and the softest leather. Illdinar, border sentry of Mirkwood also carried bow and arrow, but much preferred his sword, Menea, which he kept lovingly at his side. It was a fine elven blade, which gleamed bright silver in light of day or darkness. The sword, a gift of old, passed down to him through his mother's house, was his most prized possession, and Illdinar kept it in a fine leather sheath that hung at his belt. The hilt was also covered, for even with this, it glowed silver from within, through the finest cracks in the sheath. Finally, Legolas came from his father, his quiver of arrows secured to his back by leather straps with brightly polished silver buckles over his chest and shoulder. A silver elven blade, sheathed and secured in like manner to his back, straddled the side of his quiver. Behind him, ambled Legolas's horse, Neonean, a noble, pale-gray mare.
Her magnificent mane, braided twice behind her right ear, signified her allegiance to the elves of Mirkwood. Her fiery blue eyes followed Legolas's every move as they walked to the gate. On her back, Neonean carried supplies for the journey. Several sacks filled with fruits, herbs and the elven waybread, Lembas, wrapped in mallorn leaves, and were strapped tightly together.
The 3 elves set out through the great forest, following the trail of Asha. At that time of year, the trees surrounding this ancient trail bore much fruit. The trail closely followed the tributaries that spun off the forest river, winding slowly south, until it left Mirkwood altogether and eventually became part of the Anduin. The river provided the party with ample fish and water to drink. They ate from the bounty of the forest, saving their supplies for the road away from Mirkwood, for none knew how they would be received. Seldom did the elves venture away from their own lands and into the foreign kingdoms, as they were called. Neonean followed closely behind Legolas, needing no halter or reins, so aware of his mind was she, that she never strayed a great distance from him, and would come to him at once when he beckoned her. Of great stature she was, and could easily carry all three elves had they a mind to ride. However, all preferred the path on foot, the luxurious green wood mosses beneath their feet.
They followed the trail southwards until it intersected with the old forest road (Men-i-Naugrim), which cut through the center of Mirkwood, east to west. They stopped at the bridge of Cadea, the turning point to the West, and sat by the quiet riverbank under a mighty oak tree to rest.
"If we stayed to the forest road," said Illdinar, "We could rest at Rhosgabel at the forest's edge. From there it is but 10 leagues to the Old Ford on the Anduin River. Euphratas is not far from there."
Illdinar tugged his water skin from one of the sacks that Neonean carried. It was packed so tightly that the entire sack moved on her back as he pulled it free. Neonean spun her great head about and nudged Illdinar, as if to reproach him for his forcefulness. Illdinar did not move, but playfully patted Neonean on her forehead between her eyes. She neighed and shook her head, but seemed appeased at the attention and began to munch unconcerned on some soft river grasses. Kerrinais leaned back onto the grass and stared up the trunk of the great tree and into the sky beyond.
"There is some wisdom in traveling to Euphratas first," Kerrinais said, "King Olandin is farthest to the east and would receive us best I think. If there should be disorder in the kingdoms beyond, we would surely hear of it there. If there is no news, then we might even travel to Sillaris at the northern most corners of the brown lands." Legolas stared aimlessly out to the great stretch of road beyond the old wooden bridge.
"I do not think we will need to journey as far as that," he said, "My father has not commanded us to venture further than Euphratas. If we keep to the trail of Asha, the forest river will stay with us almost to the borders of Irwindal. Tuluth would then be only 2 or 3 leagues to the south. King Gillindon of Irwindal is no friend to our kindred, yet he has no cause to despise us."
Illdinar shook his head doubtfully.
"King Gillindon has never sent a friendly emissary to our wood, Legolas. He has sent no offering of friendship to King Thranduil."
"But neither has he proved to be other than a friend, and he has struck no blow to our forests," Legolas reminded him.
"I have heard," said Kerrinais, "That King Gillindon keeps his own forest for his people because he will not give leave to cut wood of the eldar, and even offers it for shelter to the passing guests who prefer trees to castle stones."
"There you see," grinned Legolas, "Our guesthouse is ready made at Irwindal. Let us leastways go there and to Euphratas. Tuluth is but a day's journey from Irwindal, and we may might venture there while keeping camp in King Gillindon's forest, if we are received well."
And so they set out once again, remaining on the trail of Asha as before, passing no other creatures in the forest. When the light began to fade away on the eighth day, the three friends were but two leagues from the edge of Mirkwood. They made camp in a small glade, away from the river's edge. Kerrinais and Illdinar sat facing the fire as Legolas carefully unwrapped a bread loaf. This was their first meal using their lembas. They had little time to fish that day, and none were of a mind to catch something now. Legolas closed his eyes for a moment, whispered in elvish before breaking off a small piece of the waybread and handing it to Illdinar. The elf leaned forward, smiling slightly as he took the bread, and bit into it. Legolas then handed a piece to Kerrinais, who put it down on his leather water skin. Kerrinais stood up and walked a few paces to where Neonean stood, and began untangling her long mane.
"Come eat," said Illdinar, "For the trail has been long and we need to rest. Neonean may forgive you for ignoring her till the dawn comes."
"If I ignore her, then surely Legolas will have taken my place by morning," Kerrinais replied. As if to announce her preference, Neonean at once whinnied, shaking her long mane out of Kerrinais's hand.
"Apparently, she prefers Legolas to all," Illdinar mused, "Come Kerrinais, come and eat." Kerrinais paid little attention to Illdinar's request. Instead he gently picked up a lock of Neonean's mane, and began to untangle it again. Legolas grinned as he watched Neonean shake her mighty head away from the elf, ripping her mane from his hand. Each time Kerrinais patiently picked up the lock of mane and continued where he left off. Suddenly, the smile faded from Legolas and he sat up straight while looking around the glade. Almost at the same time, Kerrinais let go of Neonean's mane, and also gazed to the dark forest as well.
"Can you feel it," Legolas said to Illdinar. The elf slowly placed his water skin on the ground next to him.
"It is as though something has suddenly been placed in our midst," said Kerrinais walking over to the fire, "Perhaps we should find another place to camp tonight." Legolas looked up into the trees, peering through uppermost branches to the half moon, which was slowly rising in the night sky. The branches swayed and lurched in the cool night wind. He suddenly realized that Neonean had walked away from the camp while he searched the woods from above, and was now nowhere to be seen. Illdinar began to stand, but Legolas held out his arm to prevent him from moving.
"There is no sound, " Legolas said, half alarmed, "No chirp of a cricket, no bird or toad. All is silent." The three elves sat pensively for several minutes, not moving or speaking, but turned their puzzled heads in every direction. Then, almost simultaneously all eyes fell to the crackling fire in front of them, which began to flicker a bluish-green. At first it was almost too pale to tell, but as they watched, the gleam of color suddenly issued forth, jumping and dancing into the air. From the heat of the bluest flame came a single, tiny butterfly, all bathed in bright royal blue, emanating its own light, no bigger than the end of a finger.
"LOOK!" gasped Illdinar, "A Carner Blue!! This is an ill omen indeed!" No one moved, but all eyes remained fixed upon the tiny creature as it floated and dived around the camp. To Legolas though, it seemed not entirely shocking, and he cocked his head from one side to the other, studying the butterfly in wonderment. He had heard stories and myths about the great portents of the future, and there were but few elven songs speaking of the formidable power of the Carner Blue. Yet, here before him was the very myth of his youth. Almost as if it heard Illdinar speak, the insect floated effortlessly before him, and landed briefly on his tunic. Illdinar's eyes widened, but he remained perfectly still. Then almost as quickly, it became airborne once more and landed on Legolas's flaxen hair. Legolas did not speak, but he saw the strained looks on his companion's faces, and he knew that it was upon him. Finally it alighted for the last time and flew directly into the blue-green flame of the campfire, disappearing in a whiff of widened flames. For some time, the three companions did not stir from their places, but sat watching the campfire. No one moved until Neonean ambled into the camp from the darkness beyond, and nudged Legolas on his back. Unprepared for the mischievous shove, Legolas nearly fell over, the first time this had ever happened, and it seemed to shock him back from his thoughts.
"An ill omen," muttered Illdinar at last. Legolas calmly arose and stroked Neonean's wide neck.
"Perhaps not," said Legolas thoughtfully, "There are some elven songs that speak of the mystical Carner Blue as a bringer of good fortune, but I fear there is no way to tell."
Kerrinais was still transfixed, staring into the flame of the fire.
"I have heard of the omened butterflies, but before this night, I had never seen one," said Kerrinais, "There is rumor that the Carner Blues are emissaries from wizards. However, it does not matter. I am inclined to agree with Legolas. There is no telling the judgment of this, good or ill. But we cannot return to King Thranduil empty-handed of findings. Whatever the outcome of this visitation, we must continue the journey."
The remainder of the night was spent in restless reflection for everyone. Kerrinais and Legolas each chewed a small piece of lembas and also ate some wild blueberries they had picked in a forest clearing. When the half moon was high, Illdinar silently left the camp, and roamed in the woods to clear his thoughts. But he carried Menea with him, and wherever he went, his companions needed only to look into the dark forest, and they could see their companion by the faint silver glow of the blade.
By the sun's first golden light, the mood in the camp was uplifted, and they continued the journey towards the small kingdom of Irwindal. The day passed by without incident, and at last they came to the straight at the forest edge. From this point, the elves would have to follow the forest river tributary closely, for the trail of Asha ended at the border of Mirkwood. The river then emptied into the larger Anduin, just north of the river Gladden. At the ford between the tributary and the Anduin, the three travelers turned northward, for Irwindal was now but 3 or 4 leagues away. The city was less than a day's journey from them, but all could clearly see the ominous blackened area in the distance. It was a stark contrast to the greens and subdued browns of the rest of the plain horizon.
"Is the city under attack?" asked Illdinar, straining his eyes. Legolas looked to the right and left of the scorched area, as though he were trying to get a better view.
"I do not think so," said Kerrinais, "I do not see any movement on the plain, neither army nor stragglers. Nothing." Neonean reared her mighty head and neighed, and Legolas stepped forward, putting his hand on her muzzle. He spoke quiet elvish words to her, and she fell silent.
"We could bypass the city, and then go directly to Euphratas. King Thranduil commanded us to bring news only, not to venture into a battle." Legolas shook his head.
"We should go to Irwindal and see what has happened," said Legolas, "There may be some survivors. We will take them with us to Euphratas. It would save King Olandin the trouble of assembling a rescue."
Illdinar unsheathed Menea, and both Legolas and Kerrinais readied bow and arrow. The traveling progressed slower now. As they went, they scoped all the lands around them for signs of attack or ambush, but there was none. At length they came to an enormous swath of crushed mud, appearing from the south and continuing north. Legolas stopped at the edge of the huge trail, and looked at the large, wide track prints.
"They came from the south," Legolas said, his face showing his concern.
"They had at least several hundred horses," said Kerrinais looking about, "An attack from Tuluth?" Legolas shook his head.
"No....that makes no sense. The 3 kings of the blue cities are all allied, and guard the pass between Mirkwood and the mountains. No, this is something else. Look at these footprints, they are too wide and heavy for a mortal man, even one who is armored. The tracks are too deep."
"Orcs?" questioned Illdinar. The mere mention of the word seemed to leave a bad taste in his mouth. Legolas looked up at him, knowing that he had guessed correctly, yet he did not reply.
"Why would they come this far north?" said Kerrinais, "To what end could this mean? These kingdoms are small, save for Euphratas, and they would be only a little victory." Legolas looked at Kerrinais and stood up.
"To the Dark Lord, no kingdom is too small to overthrow. If all the smaller kingdoms of the land are taken, then half of Middle-Earth will be his. If this indeed is the beginning of a siege of the pass here, we must find out quickly."
They continued all that night, and into the next day, only stopping to drink from their water skins and eat from their reserves. Not even Neonean drank from the abundant Anduin that flowed freely only a few hundred yards from them. The orcs had traveled near the water, and may even yet be poisoning it from some unknown point upstream. Legolas poured handfuls of water from his container and let Neonean lap from his hand. Just after midday, they arrived on the outskirts of the forests of Irwindal. The trees were blackened to mere stumps from a great fire that had been set to them. Not one remained unscathed. As they made their way to the city beyond, they began finding the burned remains of the people of Irwindal, those who had first escaped the initial onslaught and ran for sanctuary into the woodlands. Here they were pursued and engulfed by the great fire that was lit to all areas of the forest. They continued on through the remains of the ravaged woodland trail, watchful of everything surrounding them, but there was only the foul scent of burning decay and smoke. The small trail emptied out to a road that led directly to the city, once filled with commerce and traders, now silent and still. Up the hill they continued towards the castle, which majestically overlooked the city, its outer walls now crumbled and ruined. Peering into windows and through doorways, there was no survivor of the attack, only the dead. Illdinar spoke at last. Bending over, he pulled a single arrow from a small dog that lay in the street.
"They even killed the animals," said Illdinar, examining the arrow, "Orcs of Gorthaur, of this there is no doubt. But look at the arrow. A strange color of red there is to the shaft. Is it poisoned? Not of flower or clay of the soil. I have not seen the like of it."
He placed it on the road silently, so as not to make a sound. As they approached the great gateway to the castle, they stopped to peer over the edge of a large trench. There at the base and piled high, were the remains of the fallen orc warriors. The dead of the enemy had been gathered and burned before the army left. Clearly the defense of the city had been savage. Neonean reared her head once again, but Legolas quickly raised his hand, and she fell quiet. Carefully, they continued on. Although the wooden doorways leading into the castle were heavy, none remained unopened. None remained unbroken. At the base of the great stone stairway, Legolas spoke softly to Neonean, and she obediently remained behind as the trio continued up into the main halls of the castle. Through every hallway they checked, weapons drawn.
Legolas stepped over a heavy wooden door that was literally torn off its hinges, and peered into the room beyond. Furniture was broken and thrown across the room. Some heavier pieces had been piled against the doorway, but the brace did not hold. Delicate, shimmering silks, now dirtied and spoiled, were torn from the huge bedposts. Even the mattress from the bed had been ripped apart by a huge knife. Broken vases and glass covered the floor. Legolas looked about the room in awe of the particular savagery that had occurred. Then he noticed something of interest, and nimbly jumped over a heavy bureau to approach the window.
With his left hand he picked up a small bit of rope, one end of it tied to the base of the heavy bed, leading up to the window and out. He peered out over the wall, which dropped a hundred feet. Little of the rope remained. It had been burned from below, and now only 15 feet or so of the line remained intact. Further down, Legolas could see the remains of a secluded set of trees, charred and bereft of leaves or bark, and he surmised the owner of the room had attempted to make their escape from that rope. He looked at the fields beyond, which bordered the ruined bigger forest, and imagined what a pleasant room it must have been. One would only need to awake at first daylight and look out that window onto the dewed morning grasses, now trodden down, and gaze further out the beauty of the great forest of Irwindal. Suddenly, he heard a soft, almost muted noise from behind. Legolas whirled around in an instant, an arrow fitted to his bow, ready to fly. But it was only Kerrinais, carefully lifting a heavy swath of cloth that had been cast aside during the fight. Legolas relaxed his arm, and carefully stepped towards his friend. He was bending over the body of a woman, laying face up under the coverlet.
"I thought someone had escaped," Legolas said looking at her, sighing, "There is a rope attached to the bed which hangs out the window." Kerrinais put his hand to her mouth to see if he could detect her breath. There was none. Legolas considered her smoke covered and beaten face. He thought she would have been pretty in life, but such thoughts were quickly erased as he saw the many wounds that she had sustained.
"She never had a chance to escape," he thought to himself.
"The king's daughter? This room is certainly one of the family quarters," said Kerrinais.
"I don't know," replied Legolas, "The attack on the city was swift and without warning, yet she must have heard something. She barricaded herself inside, and attempted a retreat."
"Look at this," Kerrinais said, gingerly lifting the woman's arm. Legolas bent closer. As Kerrinais held up her arm, Legolas could see her palm covered with blood as though she had dipped it in red paint. Below her arm, a perfect handprint was left on the floor next to where she lay. Pain seemed to cross Legolas's face as a new revelation came to him.
"She knew she was going to die," he whispered solemnly. Kerrinais placed her arm back in its original position, and replaced the coverlet.
At that moment, Illdinar appeared in the doorway to the room. He stepped in slightly, gazing around the room and then at his companions.
"I have searched the great hall, and the remainder of the enclave, but there is no sign of the King. He may have escaped somehow."
"And leave his daughter to her doom?" asked Kerrinais, lifting up the coverlet to show the dead woman underneath. Illdinar looked at the woman in pity as Kerrinais once again covered her face.
"I do not believe he did," said Legolas, "I do not think anyone survived this onslaught. Not even an animal or tree was spared. Either the king was taken prisoner or he was killed like the others."
"It seems unlikely that the orcs would wreck the kingdom and then take the king prisoner. And why did they not leave a troop behind?" replied Illdinar. Kerrinais stood up and looked around the room.
"We should hasten to Tuluth in the South. That is the nearest city, and any survivors would go there."
They left the room just as the final beams of sunlight were waning in the distance. They returned to the stone stairway, where Neonean stood patiently waiting for their return. Legolas patted her neck as he went past her, and she placidly turned and followed them out to the city road. They left the city in the darkness, following a large outlet until it emptied into the Anduin. Here they chose to rest at the great river.
The sound of the rushing water was a comfort to them, and they all were tired and forlorn from their grim discovery. That night, no fire was lit. After eating a small meal of dried fruit and lembas, Kerrinais and Illdinar each retreated to a secluded area, and their soft elvish songs for the dead could be detected only by Legolas's keen ears. But Legolas did not sing a lament. Instead, he spoke a short elven prayer for the trees that were sundered, and after some time and much deliberation, he spoke another prayer for the dead woman in the royal apartment of the castle.
They started out before the sun rose on the next day, moving silently along the river's edge, passing through the remains of the great forest. Legolas once again spoke a prayer for the fallen trees. They continued and at length came to where they had crossed the ford at the Anduin. They headed for the small area of Tuluth, which almost rested upon the river Gladden. As before, the wrenching stench of death and decay found them long before they actually came to the city. And as with Irwindal, the entire city was devastated and left to rot. Once again, the three elves investigated any standing buildings, but nothing was left. They met in the center square, just as night was once again falling over the mountains.
"Did you find anything?" Kerrinais asked Illdinar as he approached. Illdinar shook his head.
"It is plain that an orc army is taking all the lands up and down the river pass, and wreaking havoc in its wake. Do we now take this news to Mirkwood or do we follow them?"
"I think," said Legolas, "That the battle in Irwindal was recent. If we hasten to Euphratas, we could warn King Olandin or at least gain some knowledge of how many of the enemy there are. Then, if we may, we could bring news to my father. It is worrisome that such an army is little more than 15 leagues from the borders of Mirkwood. But for all my questions, at least I am sure that this army marches to Euphratas."
"Then let us make haste," replied Kerrinais, "Let us make all possible speed to Euphratas to discover the size of this army and to warn King Olandin. But I fear now that we have wasted valuable time."
Even as the blackness of night stretched its cloak over the land, Kerrinais, Legolas, and Illdinar hastened to the river trail on the Anduin. They ran with all swiftness, the pressing need to warn the northern-most kingdom on the great river always in their minds. After some hours, it was even difficult for Neonean to maintain the pace. The next morning the trio passed the still blackened forest of Irwindal and they continued up the west bank of the Anduin. It was a 7-day journey to the Old Ford that intersected the Anduin and the city of Euphratas. They neither slept nor took camp. On the third night, they traveled slower when a pelting rain poured over the hills. Arriving at a small clump of thick trees, Kerrinais stopped and gathered several huge leaves from one of the overhanging branches. He then fashioned a sort of cone that he held in his hand to catch the rainwater. Water quickly dripped out from cracks in the bottom, between the leaves, but it was raining so hard, that only a few minutes passed before the bowl was halfway filled. Kerrinais sipped from the edge of leaves and brought it directly to Legolas, who gladly sipped from the cup as well. Illdinar then drank, before returning the cup to Kerrinais. Holding the cone out to the downpour, Kerrinais filled it again. He also retrieved all three of their water skins and with much care, began to cautiously fill each. Legolas handed Illdinar a Mallorn leaf containing the remainder of a lembas loaf. He cupped his hand over the end of the bread, attempting to keep it from getting drenched. Neonean did not mind the downpour, and contently stood in the middle of a small field, munching on some wet grass. Legolas sat beside Illdinar, and adjusted his quiver belt. When the rain had subsided, they began their journey again, holding close to the river.
In the early morning on the 7th day from Tuluth, the trio arrived in the blue hills region. In the distance, the screams of terror and panic of the people could be heard, of clashing swords and armor, of wailing horses and the cries of men and women. Great billows of smoke rose in the distance as farm houses burned. Kerrinais and Legolas crawled on their bellies to peer over the crest of the hill, hidden by the large boulders that littered the landscape.
"We are too late," whispered Kerrinais, "The city is already under attack!"
"We must find the King if we can," whispered Legolas, "The main siege is approaching from the west. We will try to enter from the east portion, by the river."
"There are too many of them," whispered Kerrinais doubtfully, "We should ride to Mirkwood with all haste and tell the your father of this."
"No," replied Legolas breathing deeply, "We retrieve the King of Euphratas. He perhaps knows who assails the lands. We must know what this foul army plans to do next."
They crawled back to where Illdinar waited, holding Neonean's great head in his arm. Legolas sprang to his feet, and began ripping away at the supply bags, tossing them to the ground.
"We must retrieve the king," ordered Legolas jumping to Neonean's back, "I will try to reach the battlement from the North side, and see if there is a retreat. Kerrinais, look to the Southeastern shore entrance to the castle. Illdinar, stay hidden and keep watch, we must know which way the army turns...east to Mirkwood or west to Isodor and Rivendell. We meet here at nightfall!" Illdinar nodded, and with a whisper to Neonean, the horse reeled around on its slender legs and road away. Kerrinais, bow at the ready, stealthily slipped down the rock face. Then, running across a smoldering field, he came to the first burning house and disappeared behind a battered and broken doorway.
Legolas rode swiftly back to where the river, with its tall reeds and moors, provided cover. As they approached the the castle, Legolas slumped over Neonean's back, making the appearance of a warrior struck down in the battle. His long, blond hair covered his face, but all the while he whispered directions in elvish to his horse. At the northernmost gate, the bombardment had already crashed through. The remaining soldiers were busily engaged against squealing orcs in hand-to-hand battle. Legolas had nearly cleared the gate in this manner when an orc, bathed in blood and laughing wretchedly, ran up to Neonean and pulled savagely at Legolas's leg to drag him off the great steed.
"I won't eat you," he hissed, "But your horse has some meat on it and I've haven't had a good meal for days! She looks tasty!"
Legolas instantly sprang up, kicking the shocked and bewildered orc to the ground. In less than a moment, Legolas fit an arrow to his long elven bow and let it fly, hitting the orc squarely between the eyes. The element of disguise being over, a rush of orcs now assailed him. Legolas yelled to Neonean. She leaped into the air, and charged up the large, wide stairway. Scores of orcs fell to either side in a great wave before the bellowing horse as she raced forward. Legolas held to her sides with his legs, letting arrows fly in all directions, slaying each orc where it stood. Coming to the top of the stairway, Legolas came to a small landing, with another doorway. This one was opened but not broken. Bending low, he rode his horse through the opening, dismounted, and shut the heavy door, replacing its heavy wooden bolt. A throng of angry orc warriors pounded at the door as Legolas rode deeper into the bowels of the castle.
Nimbly mounting Neonean again, he continued down the corridor, pulling his long silver knife from its sheath, slashing down the hideous, contorted orcs as they jumped out of doorways at him. All along the hallway and into the main hall Legolas rode, finding nothing but the slain and those of the orc army that had left the outside battle to pillage the interior of the castle. Through the rooms he raced, until he came to the throne room. At the far end, by the opposite entrance, Kerrinais had already arrived and was fighting two large orcs, a sword in each hand. Legolas jumped off Neonean and ran headlong into the fight, catching one off its guard, slashing its throat in one fell swoop. The remaining orc whirled around, hitting Legolas squarely in the chest with the butt of his iron blade, knocking him off his feet. Kerrinais pushed forward with both blades, driving the hideous creature back and into the center of the room. Here he fought the monster, swords clanging, sparks flying. But as the creature backed away, it lost its footing, tangled in the fallen banner of the king. Kerrinais seized the moment of advantage, running the creature through. It fell with a pained yowl to the floor, but laughed at Kerrinais, who stood before him breathing hard.
"You cursed thing!!" he grimaced, "Rakal will finish your kind when he's finished here! He'll cut you up and leave nothing but pieces!"
Kerrinais grabbed him roughly by the collar, pulling him off his knees.
"Where is Rakal taking the army next?" Kerrinais ordered. The orc let out a hideous laugh and gurgled. Kerrinais raised his sword above the orcs swollen head.
"Where there is no defense!! He will eat the hearts of his slaves. No one escapes!" he grinned evilly.
In a final effort, the orc grabbed for Kerrinais's sword arm, but Kerrinais was stronger and pushed the sword instead into the great orc's chest. The orc slumped over and was dead. Kerrinais let go of the orc's collar and it fell limp to the ground. Then turning around, he walked towards Legolas, who was bending over a woman. With a quick movement, Legolas pulled an arrow from her, and held it up to Kerrinais as he approached.
"The same red arrow from Irwindal," said Legolas, letting it fall to the floor.
"The king is dead," breathed Kerrinais, "He lies in one of the smaller chambers." Legolas looked down at the woman.
"Legolas," said Kerrinais, "This is Rakal's army." Legolas stared back at him in disbelief.
"Rakal," Legolas murmured, looking away, "His orcs grow careless...we have made our way into the center of the castle without defeat."
"I believe they mean an attack on an elven city next," Kerrinais said under his breath. Legolas jerked his head around, his mouth slightly open.
"Are you sure of this?" he asked. Kerrinais nodded.
"The beast told me the army goes next where there is no defense," said Kerrinais, "And Mirkwood's borders are well protected. I believe they mean to cross the great pass towards Rivendell. There are fewer warriors there. This is the beginning of the siege on the elven lands, Legolas. We must gather all the elves together that we can in defense of the city. If Rakal comes for war in Isodor or Imladris, then he means to wipe out the mountain elves, but I think he needed the pass along the river cleared...no doubt for another army behind."
"Come," yelled Legolas, running to Neonean, "We ride at once!"
Holding out his arm, Legolas pulled Kerrinais up on Neonean's back behind him, and they galloped off down another large hallway. At length they approached a large door, leading out to the north wall parapet. They burst through the opening, orcs running at them from all sides. Kerrinais, two swords in hand, hacked and slashed at the orcs that jumped at them from the right side. One orc grabbed Neonean by her mane, readying his knife. He swept a large, black arm in the air to strike when Legolas kicked the creature in the face, sending it reeling back. With an invisible flash of his elven sword, the beast fell, its head rolling in the opposite direction. Another came running up from behind, slashing wildly at the horse's legs. Neonean whinnied as she ran, but she did not attempt to kick the creature or throw the elves from her back. They streaked along the lookout to the edge of the parapet.
"The river is deep and swift on the north side," cried Legolas, "Make ready!!"
Kerrinais held tightly onto Legolas's waist, kicking orcs aside as they raced towards the edge. With a giant leap, the horse flew in the air over the side of the battlement, diving with a huge splash into the river below. Kerrinais and Legolas broke the surface of the water amid a volley of arrows, but the current was strong there, and the elves and the horse were pulled swiftly away, where the threat of the orc arrows lessened. Downriver, Neonean had already found her way to the shoreline, and was pulling her great girth from the water. Legolas climbed out. He turned, extending his hand to Kerrinais, pulling him to safety. Once again in the tall reeds, they edged their way back, stopping only once to seclude themselves from an orc patrol. Kerrinais held his knives ready, and Legolas stood under Neonean's neck, holding her muzzle to his shoulder, whispering. The horse slowly knelt down into the mud, and lay on its side, unmoving. The black creatures passed within a few yards of them, but night was waning fast, and the elves could not be seen.
"Rotten slugs!!" one said trudging along through the mud, "They drowned for sure, and now we won't get their weapons!"
"Stop your whining!" argued the other, "There is plenty enough for the likes of you in the castle yet, if you aren't too afraid to fight for it."
The other stopped and grabbed the other by the neck.
"I'll slit you from ear to ear where you stand! Is that brave enough?" he snarled.
The other orc seemed to quail, and put an arm above his head.
"No need for this! The elves are dead in the river. We'll have plenty of elf things after we finish Isodor. I'll tell Rakal myself, and you can take your fill in the castle." The bigger orc threw his companion in the mud and trudged on mumbling. The other followed his companion, pulling himself out of the mire, cursing under his breath. Legolas and Kerrinais looked at each other. The elves watched the two orcs approach the outer wall of the castle. A giant orc, clad in red and black came riding up to them with several other riders behind. The two knelt before his mighty warhorse, the severed heads of the slain hung from rope tied to his saddle.
Kerrinais leaned in and whispered to Legolas.
"That is Rakal, I am sure of it," he said softly. Legolas said nothing but only watched him. A short discourse with the patrol ended with a volley of cursing and yelling. The larger orc jumped to his feet, but Rakal drew a large sword and ran the sentry through, and tossed him aside. The smaller orc turned in terror and ran. Rakal threw down his sword, and reared on his black horse, giving chase. The monstrous orc captain, readying his bow and arrow, aimed a single red shaft at the fleeing minion, and then shot the sentry through the back of its head, the grim red arrow protruding out its eye. It fell dead in the mud. Whirling around on his mount once more, Rakal screamed orders, pointing up the river, and twelve horsed riders galloped off in the direction where Legolas and Kerrinais had jumped off the battlement.
"I want to see their broken bodies!" he screamed, "Don't leave here until you bring them to me!"
When the patrols had stopped, Legolas made a soft, birdlike whistling sound, and Neonean came to life. But the mud was thick by the riverbank, and even Neonean labored to stand. The two elves quickly came to her side and pushed on the horse to help her get to her feet. All of them were mud soaked, but they were alive. They continued quietly to the foothills outside the town to meet Illdinar. They proceeded slowly, with drawn weapons, but no more patrols were encountered. Kerrinais moved on ahead, but coming around the side, he stopped short, dropping his sword. Legolas saw the incredulous stare on his face and a sense of dread overwhelmed him. He ran past Kerrinais to see the ruined devastation of the area. Their supplies had been ransacked and strewn about. This was merely an annoyance to Legolas, but after looking further out, he stopped short. Just beyond the base of the hillside, lying on the wet ground was Illdinar, a single red-shafted arrow protruding from his right eye.
Legolas cried out and ran to him. Kneeling gently beside him, his face contorted with uncontrollable sorrow. Legolas gently smoothed back a lock of Illdinar's hair from his face. Kerrinais came up slowly from behind, bent down on one knee, and murmured a soft elven lament for their fallen friend. Gingerly plucking the arrow from Illdinar, Legolas held it in his hand for a moment before dropping it to the ground. His face grew red with rage, and he leaped to his feet. Kerrinais's eyes widened, and he knew that Legolas meant to run back into the fray to confront Illdinar's killer. He grabbed Legolas as he ran by, wrestling his struggling friend to the ground.
"We have no time for this!!" cried Kerrinais, "Illdinar is dead, Legolas. You can't help him now! We have to warn Isodor and Rivendell that Rakal is coming! Meet him in battle there! Avenge Illdinar there! You can not hope to slay him here and now...the city is taken!"
Legolas glared at Kerrinais, uncontrolled anger in his eyes. He roughly pushed Kerrinais aside, and stood up.
"Let us ride then to Lord Elrond," Legolas said in a low voice.
Walking once more to where Illdinar lay, Legolas bent down on his knee, and placed his trembling hand on Illdinar's shoulder. Then he stood up and surveyed the area. Walking a short distance, he pulled aside a remnant of a linen sack. Beneath it sat the glowing blade of Menea, trampled into the mud. Legolas picked up the white blade and brushed it off with his hand and fitted it into his belt. As he walked by, Kerrinais stretched out his arm, resting his hand on Legolas's arm. The elf stopped, looking into his friend's sad eyes. Legolas struggled to control himself, only nodding. They slowly walked back to where Illdinar lay, and bent down on their knees to murmur elvish prayers. Then mounting Neonean, the two elves galloped west towards the old Ford pass of the Misty Mountains.