Lisaine slowly made her way through the forest to the road leading to
Rivendell. As she hopped across a small craggy ravine, her consuming
thoughts were of the elf, Legolas. Her mind would not be freed of his fair
visage, and Lisaine thought how she might meet with him again. Pulling
herself up by a low lying tree branch, the straight road lay before her,
and she was grateful for being away from the many obstacles of the forest.
"I must have missed the right trail," she thought to herself, "This is taking too long. The dark of night will be here in but a short while, and I must yet walk awhile to return."
The cold of the autumn evening was beginning to bite, and she shivered as she walked alone on the road. Lisaine suddenly stopped, and stood motionless for a moment. The possibility of other strangers arriving by way of the road caused her to consider backtracking. She was disheveled and tired, and she had no desire to display herself as she did with Legolas to anyone else. But there was no time to take an alternate route. The blackness of night would soon be upon her, and she had no lamp to guide her on her way, only the nearly full moon, shrouded in cloud cover. She would have to take the road, despite whomever she might encounter. She looked at her dress and hands, which were caked with mud and dirt. After brushing off her hands, she combed her fingers through her hair, and pulled out a small twig that had caught itself in a tangle at the end of one long braid. Lisaine sighed once more, dropping it to the ground. She quickly pulled her hair back into a ponytail, leaving a small strand of hair at the base. Then bringing up the remaining bit, she wrapped it around the main part of her hair, circling it tightly several times, before tying the small bit in a knot. In this manner, Lisaine's long hair was pulled away from her face, and she felt somewhat refreshed. Then she started out once more, and made her way back up the road in the growing darkness, back to Rivendell.
Kerrinais blinked his eyes and realized that it was already mid-morning. He had slept some hours, but he was not sure how long. Looking over to his right, he saw the bed where Legolas was resting, but he too, was awake.
"When do you suppose the council will meet?" Kerrinais asked sitting up. He fitted his green tunic over his head, and pulled his arms through, over his elven shirt. Standing up, he reached over for his long elven boots, with richly stitched ancient symbols. He actually had two pairs of boots, but Kerrinais always wore these particular boots on long journeys, because he felt more comfortable in them.
"I am not sure," Legolas replied, "If there were time, I would ride back to Mirkwood to inform my father of all these grave tidings. If Isodor should be Rakal's next conquest, then it would seem he means to take Rivendell by force afterwards. It makes sense, though I am not sure that he realizes the foolhardiness of the attempt. Still, I would feel better with our kindred from the North to support our defense. I would find Gandalf and have a word with him. I heard last evening that he has arrived, and will be with us at the council. It worries me that he is even here. He never appears except when greater peril is at hand."
"If there are indeed two more orc armies behind Rakal, they might make a good attempt, but they are all cowardly. In the face of the combined forces of Rivendell, they may turn. More elves are arriving daily. Some have already come bearing the mark of the peacock. It would seem that many know of the coming threat. "
"Lothlórien?" Legolas sat up, obviously surprised. "How could they know of the extent to which we need their alliance now? Lest the Lady of the Wood has foreseen it and sent help without the request."
"While you tarried in the gorge last evening, I spoke with a longtime friend who abides here now. And she said to me of some earlier arrivals who came at great speed and urgency, who bore the elven brooch of Lothlórien. The lady sees all, and is wise beyond measure. These elves may be at the council this day, and then we will know the total of our forces and the best manner in which to deal with Rakal."
Legolas stared blankly out the terrace of their room to the beautiful pristine architecture of ancient buildings across the dell, and almost against his will he began to think of earlier years riding horses with Illdinar carefree through the golden fields, barely beyond the forest glades of Mirkwood. An anger that he had seldom felt in all his long years began to well up deep inside of him.
"I know the best manner in which to deal with Rakal," he said under his breath.
At high noon, Legolas and Kerrinais left their chamber and walked towards the center square of Rivendell. As they approached the great stairway to the pavilion, Legolas paused briefly, looking back to the stable area.
"I should see to Neonean," he said, "She should be set loose this morning to graze as she may in the woods. I stabled her last evening after she wandered down into the gorge."
Kerrinais continued a few feet up the stone stairway, stopped and turned towards Legolas.
"Let us eat first Legolas. There will be time to set Neonean to the glades after. I must speak with Nillaithion before the council begins, and he may be in the pavilion. You may set Neonean loose after the meal." Legolas pondered this for a moment, and started up the stairs, following Kerrinais to the landing. Here they crossed an intricately carved stone archway that led further into a covered pavilion area. From the opposite end of the pavilion, began another stairway. Servant maidens were quickly entering the landing from this other entrance, carrying trays of food and water for the noon meal. Kerrinais walked directly to a tall, dark-haired elf, sitting on the stone. An elf maiden hurriedly poured water from a silver pitcher into a small goblet, as he held it up to her. He turned and saw Kerrinais, who greeted him with a great smile, and the tall elf sat down beside him. The two began to speak in elvish, in subdued flowing voices. Legolas surveyed the small area, thinking where he could sit. Stepping over a wooden plate, laden with freshly picked fruits and berries, he settled himself between Kerrinais and Athonan, an elf of Rivendell, and reached for a plate of dried meat. Biting into the long, thin strip, Legolas gazed upward and saw the small figure of Lisaine approach them. She bore a water pitcher and several empty goblets on a small wooden tray. She came to Legolas first, kneeling meekly before him. Placing the tray onto the stone, she began pouring a cup of water.
"A drink for you, my lord," she said politely. But as Legolas watched her, he felt troubled, as though a great tumult of thought was flying through her mind. He felt almost confused in her presence. Her long auburn hair was tied with a single, small braid on either side of her temple, and pulled back. The braids secured with a sparkling shell barrette. Kerrinais merely turned and grasped a goblet from her hand, and continued his conversation with Nillaithion, unphased. She held up a goblet to Legolas, staring directly into his bright blue eyes. He did not take the goblet, but instead simply stared back at her. Another awkward silence ensued between the two, even though all those surrounding them were busily conversing. At last, she nervously placed the goblet on the stone floor before him, and began pouring another drink for the elf sitting to the left of Legolas.
"Your horse is well recovered from her adventure in the gorge yesterday, my lord?" Lisaine said matter-of-factly. He sat silent for another moment before answering her.
"You are not worrying of my horse," he said finally. Lisaine's glance shot up at him as she was placing the third goblet down, her eyes widened. She stared at Legolas in wonderment, not knowing how to reply. Regaining her composure, she grasped the edge of the tray and stood up before him.
"You will find your drink most pleasant, my lord. The water is fresh and clean to those who journey to us from the dry, far lands in the East," she said. Bowing her head slightly, she turned and walked quickly across the pavilion towards the serving area. Legolas's eyes followed her until she disappeared down the stairway.
Quickly descending the steps, Lisaine walked directly to a large wooden table. Several trays were already on it, some empty, some filled with bowls of fruits or meats, some with pitchers of water. There were two maidens bustling about the table, sprinkling herbs at the last moment upon the meats, or breaking lembas loaves into smaller, more manageable pieces. Here Lisaine placed her tray with the now empty water pitcher. She proceeded to the doorway that led to an open hallway, which in turn, led to the square. No maiden was imposed upon to serve where they had no wish to, and therefore her leaving was not considered unusual. But Alnein, who was only now returning to the table with a large bowl of freshly picked berries, saw Lisaine hurrying away. The elf had intended to converse with her friend, but Lisaine's nervous countenance was oddly conspicuous, and she thought not to detain the princess. Alnein walked silently to the door and watched Lisaine hurry away, almost running. Then Alnein looked back in the direction of the pavilion, half wondering if someone had said something to upset her friend. Her eyes fell upon each elf, until her gaze came to rest upon the serious Legolas. Meanwhile, Lisaine continued to the square and did not stop until she was almost at the great hewn archway that heralded the entrance to the city of Rivendell. There, finally, she paused, turning her head back in the direction of the pavilion. She could see the maidens still bustling back and forth as the meal continued, and then with her head hung low, she continued towards the forest.
Alnein brought the bowl of berries to the pavilion, and began to pour a small amount on each plate. As she approached Kerrinais, he glanced over at her and a huge smile came to his face. Bowing his head, he placed his arm across his chest and extended it outwards towards her. Alnein broke into a subdued grin, and bowed her head in turn, pouring some berries on Legolas's plate, and then Kerrinais's.
"I am glad you are here," she said to Kerrinais, "It has been too long since I have had the pleasure of seeing my Mirkwood kin. How fairs our mother?"
"She is well," he grinned, "I wish only that our presence here were under gladder tidings. I have not the time to visit now, as Legolas and I are wanted in council shortly, but perhaps in the evening I may seek you out and you can tell me how goes it here in the water city of Rivendell."
Alnein looked shyly at Legolas, who took no notice of her. He was busy speaking to another woodland elf who had also traveled to Rivendell from afar, though not from Mirkwood.
"Fair thee well, my brother," Alnein smiled, "Until the dusk then." Kerrinais bowed his head one more time, and she passed by him, pouring berries onto yet another plate.
After the meal, Legolas and Kerrinais ascended another long stairway from the pavilion. At the top, there was an open-arched walkway, leading to yet more steps. Ivy and flowers clung to the ancient carved stones. The rambling vines and stones were wet with dew and mist, even as the sun rose above them. As they climbed, Kerrinais looked out past the arches, to the many waterfalls that surrounded the city of Rivendell. Trees brimming with colored leaves shone in the bright afternoon sunlight. The morning mists had dissipated, but the constant mists from the crashing falls were always in motion around the gorge area. The upsweep of the air drafts from the water fell on their faces with crisp, clean air mixed with tiny water droplets. Even though Rivendell was entering the fall season, flowers blooming year round added purples and blues to the spectacular sight. At the very top of the stairway, the entrance to the home of Lord Elrond, Kerrinais stopped momentarily to take in the marvelous sight of Rivendell, bathed in magnificent colors.
From this perch, Legolas and Kerrinais could see most of the city and the gorge beneath. As Legolas looked over the beautiful landscape in its entirety, his elven eyes perceived a solitary young woman at the water's edge, in the gorge below. At first, she was hidden from his sight by the massive branches of an ancient oak tree, but she stepped carefully to her left, and then came directly into his view. Squinting his eyes slightly, he gazed at her relaxed demeanor as she knelt down, holding something within her outstretched hand. Legolas stood there watching, and then to his surprise, he saw a small baby rabbit hop cautiously from underneath a bush. The young woman remained perfectly still as the rabbit came closer and closer, until at last, it took a tentative bite of her offering. There she remained for some minutes while the tiny rabbit munched happily on the bit of food. Then, satisfied, the rabbit hopped back to the safety of the bush, and the maiden placed the rest of its lunch by the bush. She stood up, brushing her brown and gray gown with a tiny hand and continued her way down into the gorge, singing.
He could not understand the words of her serenade over the crashing of the great falls, but the melody, light and gay, was clear to his ears. Legolas's lips gradually curled upwards into a slight smile as she escaped his sight. Kerrinais motioned to Legolas and continued into the entranceway to Lord Elrond's house. Legolas glanced in the direction of the gorge one last time before he followed.
Several high council members had already assembled when Legolas and Kerrinais arrived. Lord Elrond sat upon a large, high-backed wooden chair to the right of the doorway, and each walked over to him, bowing in respect, before taking their seats in the great circle. The sun was high now, and it filtered through the vast treetops onto the ground all around them. The breeze was stronger at the top of the ridge and leaves blew carelessly onto the landing. Legolas's long hair moved in the chilly autumn breeze, but he showed no signs of being cold. Next to Kerrinais sat lords Balanthos and Menarn of the great city of Isodor. Beside them were Hanthenar and Dalidanor of the far kingdom of Lothlórien. Also there were Luinerothion, Kostranion, and Marsangaion of Rivendell, the trusted lords of Elrond. They sat conversing quietly, when the eleventh and final member called to the council arrived. Kerrinais turned his head, observing the tall man's gray weathered robes and knurled staff. For this visitor, Lord Elrond rose to his feet and extended his hand in greeting. The man removed his hat and shuffled to the one remaining empty seat, nodding to each assembled elf as he passed by. Lord Elrond remained standing until everyone was seated, then he proceeded to the center of the circle. His expression was of solemn gravity.
"You are here because a new menace comes to our borders," he said sternly, "Rakal the Destroyer comes to overthrow the elven cities of Isodor and Rivendell. As we speak, his unfettered army approaches the forest of Isodor from the east. Therefore I have assembled you to come together to discuss our defenses of the cities and how to repel this invader."
A slow murmur of garbled, astonished disbelief rose over the room at the mere mention of Rakal's name. Balanthos rose from his seat, looking about the assembly.
"We are from the mellow woodlands of Isodor. There has been no word or tidings that an army comes hither, especially the Dark Lord's evilest minion, whom to all of us is but a rumor. There is no proof that Rakal even exists, and surely we would have some knowledge of his approach from the outreaches of the mountains."
Kerrinais stood up.
"There are those who have seen him first hand and lived to tell of it. Three of us traveled from great Mirkwood at the request of King Thranduil nigh on one full moon ago. We traversed all the area in the great valley between the mountains and the great forest. ALL the cities along mighty Anduin lie in waste from Rakal's army. We arrived in Euphratas even as the city was overthrown, and saw Rakal astride his black horse, come from the wastelands. He bears the mark of the red arrow, and we have seen his work firsthand. Our companion was lost in the battle at Euphratas, and only by stealth did we escape ourselves."
Balanthos stared at Kerrinais in disbelief, and slowly took his seat.
"Rakal is no rumor," said Gandalf. All attention turned to him. "Rakal relies on concealment rather than speed. He leaves no witness to his deeds, and therefore believes he has time to move his army where he will. To attack without the fear of previous discovery is his ambition. He does not fret of meeting with great defenses. His glory is in his arrogance, and this is where we must look to his undoing. Obviously he believes Legolas and Kerrinais to be dead or he would be moving quicker to his mark. But he has grown too confident in his conquests, and he will not be prepared for elven resistance in Isodor. He will be the one who is surprised."
"How many approach Isodor?" asked Menarn to Kerrinais. The elf stood motionless, contemplating how to break the news of the massive army. Menarn looked then to Legolas.
"The army is large," Legolas said gravely, "2,000 strong at least. With at least 700 horses counted among them, and well armored." All talking stopped, and there was a long silence as the elven generals pondered Legolas's words.
"Rakal's army will be at Isodor in 10 days," said Lord Elrond looking about the room, "We must assemble what strength we may and confront them in Tamlot, the outlying woods of Isodor. At least there, his horses may not be of much use to him. They will find the thistles and ravines difficult to traverse, and we may use what power we have in the woods to confuse them."
"You cannot hope for reinforcements from Lothlórien in that short a time!" said Dalidan jumping to his feet. He was visibly shaken. "It will be 15 days before our warriors can arrive, even at great speed!"
Lord Elrond sighed as he gazed at the visitor.
"Yet, 10 days is all we have before the storm ascends," said Lord Elrond. Then looking all about him, Elrond said in a commanding voice,
"The future of Elvendom in Middle-Earth is in our hands. We are outnumbered as we stand today, but we MUST defend the city or each elven kingdom will suffer the same fate after. Rakal seeks to conquer ALL in his master's service, and he has set his sights upon Isodor. I have already dispatched riders to all areas calling for aid, but until help arrives, we here MUST hold them. Now, we have much preparation. I will meet with you individually to determine what areas you must command. Until then, make ready and I bid you, our most trusted elf lords, to attend the Nissalos feast this night. We go to war in two days time, and will meet Rakal in the woodlands of Tamlot."
With that, the elves rose from their seats and began to file away, bowing low to Lord Elrond as they descended the stairs to the long, covered walkway. Gandalf arose last, and he shuffled over to Lord Elrond. The two turned back and retreated into Lord Elrond's main receiving room. There were no closed rooms in any elven home; such was the elves love for forest and nature. Every room then was open to the trees and flowers. Birds flew freely through the great hallways, their nests concealed within the climbing ivy that licked at every window and terrace. As the two friends walked, leaves crackled beneath their feet and the breezes blew through the rounded windows.
"Gandalf," said Lord Elrond pensively, "I am concerned of this rash move of Rakal. He does nothing without the Dark Lord's command, yet I cannot foresee his purpose here. Why now? Why Isodor and Rivendell? We are the least defended, but we are the hardest to traverse here in the mountains." Gandalf paused to reflect on his words. He stepped closer to Elrond, whispering as though he believed the very walls could hear him.
"I am not sure that all of Rakal's deeds here are sanctioned by his dark master. His pride should not be underestimated, Lord Elrond. He has grown too confident in his conquests, and I sense that he wants a complete triumph over something, but I don't know what. His moves until now were to wipe out the mortal cities in the Anduin valley, but his coming here so soon makes little sense. He is after something here besides obliteration of the elves, but I cannot tell you what it is."
Lord Elrond looked to his hand and held it up. Upon his finger sat, Vilya, the Ring of Air, handed down to him by Gil-galad. Its ocean-blue sapphire sparkled brightly.
"It could be he has come for this," he said, "If Rakal can defeat all of the elven kingdoms, then the Dark Lord could assemble the three elven rings. With half of the mortal race gone in the Anduin valley, and dominion over all the forests, the Dark Lord could easily crush what remains in Gondor and Rohan. Even now, Gondor stands guard over the closed and silent black gates, unaware that Rakal is laying waste to all the lands of the Northern territories. When Rakal returns to his master in Mordor, it will be too late for Gondor to mount a defense on all sides."
"The Dark Lord hopes to conquer Middle-Earth without the one thing that he needs for a swift victory. If Rakal can take half the elven kingdoms, then matters will be worsened tenfold," whispered Gandalf. He began to walk further into the reaches of the spacious chamber. Lord Elrond remained stationary.
"Gandalf, there is one more thing."
Gandalf turned, half surprised.
"There has come to us a survivor from Irwindal," he said. Gandalf raised his eyebrows.
"Oh?"
"Yes," continued Lord Elrond, "She has visited us many times in the past, but she has escaped from Irwindal during the night of the attack. And it brings me to hope that if she has survived, perhaps there are others. Perhaps that is why Rakal hastens to Isodor. Perhaps he knows there are survivors there, and he would wish to wipe them out. I have spoken to this maiden twice, but I feel she does not want to relay everything to me. Perhaps you should talk to her. She may be able to tell us something that will help our efforts." Gandalf nodded.
"Perhaps I will," he replied.
Kerrinais and Legolas lingered in the armory for much of the afternoon, examining such weapons as there were on hand. To this end, there were many weapons of war kept in the elven armory. Even as Lord Elrond kept an ample supply of bows and knives against a sudden need, every elf was just as likely to carry their own personal weapons, which they preferred. A strange handle, or bow tension did not lend itself to more accuracy, and only at times of dire need would a woodland elf be caught with such armament. Still, in the advent of a crisis, the elven smiths labored at creating such bright long knives and arrowheads with beauteous scrolling as to be worthy of the noble race.
Late in the afternoon, Legolas parted company with his companion and made for the stables to release Neonean. As he walked, he reproached himself, thinking that the great mare would be terribly annoyed with him for keeping her pent up throughout the morning. He climbed a small slope and entered the tall barn, covered in ivy but for the windows, which were clean of foliage. The moment he walked through the great open doorway, he could hear a faint laughter and then a melodious humming. The sound was soothing to him, and in his curiosity, Legolas quickened the pace to find its source. When he turned the corner, he stopped short. There he saw Lisaine standing at the stall entrance, singing softly to Neonean while feeding the mare a wild carrot. He scuffed his foot so that Lisaine would hear his approach, which she did. Her song stopped abruptly and she spun her head around. Even in the darker recesses of the barn, Lisaine imagined a golden hue shining about him. Legolas stopped 10 feet from the stall, unwilling to venture closer. Quickly she turned her eyes, so as not to stare at him. Legolas was obviously annoyed at her intrusion.
"Surely this is the most beautiful animal I have ever seen," she said at last.
"You should not stand so close to her," Legolas admonished, "This horse does not take kindly to strangers. What were you doing just now?"
The princess did not back away from where she stood despite Legolas's remark. Looking back to the horse's serene face, Lisaine said,
"A beast with a good heart will know when it is in good company, I think. I am sure she would do no harm to me, my lord. As for what I was doing, I was just talking to her, that is all."
"Talking?" he replied in surprise.
"Yes," Lisaine said amiably, "Do you suppose naught but an elf may talk to a horse?"
"But you cannot understand her reply," he interjected.
Her comments both confused and interested him. The elves talked to animals as though they were having a conversation with another elf. They whispered to an animal, and could understand its voice as a language. But to Legolas's knowledge, no other race contained that ability. Lisaine also knew this. She also knew that Legolas mistook her meaning. She simply spoke to animals sweetly and tenderly and knew that they enjoyed the sounds of her voice. To his comment then, Lisaine gazed wistfully at Neonean. No, she could not speak to the horse as he could. At length, she smiled at the elf.
"I understand her perfectly," she said slyly, "She would have my last carrot."
Legolas broke into a small, uncontained laugh, as he walked over to open Neonean's stall gate. He seemed more at ease now.
"I believe you are right," he grinned as he pulled the gate open, "Great horses have great appetites, and this one more than most."
The giant mare calmly walked out, nuzzled Legolas's neck, and turned her head towards Lisaine, who now stood at her flank. Lisaine lifted up her one remaining carrot to the horse. Neonean munched on it while Legolas patiently waited. Then Lisaine stepped back and watched the slim, tall elf walk from the stable with the gray mare obediently following. She waited some moments after they left before she stepped lightly to the barn door entrance. The mountain breezes were cool upon her face, and she silently scanned the area until her eyes caught site of Legolas just before he disappeared around the stone entryway in the square. He was leading Neonean down the main road to the pastures in the forest. Even after he was gone, it seemed to her that a faint golden glow hung in the air around the archway. Lisaine likened it to a sparkle of morning dew on the winding woodland ivy. She stood there engrossed in her pleasurable thoughts, smiling to herself without concern, when she was suddenly drawn back to the present. The princess abruptly gazed upwards to see Alnein standing at her room's terrace, intently watching the entire scenario. There was a blank expression resting upon the elf's face. Feeling embarrassed, Lisaine quickly left the barn and headed in the direction of the forge. She did not want to escape to the river, her favorite place, and risk Alnein watching her leave in the same direction as Legolas. From her balcony, Alnein watched Lisaine disappear into the forge and then she turned her head to the great archway where Legolas had drawn Neonean moments before. Alnein pulled herself away from the balcony and proceeded into her chamber, sighing.
"I must have missed the right trail," she thought to herself, "This is taking too long. The dark of night will be here in but a short while, and I must yet walk awhile to return."
The cold of the autumn evening was beginning to bite, and she shivered as she walked alone on the road. Lisaine suddenly stopped, and stood motionless for a moment. The possibility of other strangers arriving by way of the road caused her to consider backtracking. She was disheveled and tired, and she had no desire to display herself as she did with Legolas to anyone else. But there was no time to take an alternate route. The blackness of night would soon be upon her, and she had no lamp to guide her on her way, only the nearly full moon, shrouded in cloud cover. She would have to take the road, despite whomever she might encounter. She looked at her dress and hands, which were caked with mud and dirt. After brushing off her hands, she combed her fingers through her hair, and pulled out a small twig that had caught itself in a tangle at the end of one long braid. Lisaine sighed once more, dropping it to the ground. She quickly pulled her hair back into a ponytail, leaving a small strand of hair at the base. Then bringing up the remaining bit, she wrapped it around the main part of her hair, circling it tightly several times, before tying the small bit in a knot. In this manner, Lisaine's long hair was pulled away from her face, and she felt somewhat refreshed. Then she started out once more, and made her way back up the road in the growing darkness, back to Rivendell.
Kerrinais blinked his eyes and realized that it was already mid-morning. He had slept some hours, but he was not sure how long. Looking over to his right, he saw the bed where Legolas was resting, but he too, was awake.
"When do you suppose the council will meet?" Kerrinais asked sitting up. He fitted his green tunic over his head, and pulled his arms through, over his elven shirt. Standing up, he reached over for his long elven boots, with richly stitched ancient symbols. He actually had two pairs of boots, but Kerrinais always wore these particular boots on long journeys, because he felt more comfortable in them.
"I am not sure," Legolas replied, "If there were time, I would ride back to Mirkwood to inform my father of all these grave tidings. If Isodor should be Rakal's next conquest, then it would seem he means to take Rivendell by force afterwards. It makes sense, though I am not sure that he realizes the foolhardiness of the attempt. Still, I would feel better with our kindred from the North to support our defense. I would find Gandalf and have a word with him. I heard last evening that he has arrived, and will be with us at the council. It worries me that he is even here. He never appears except when greater peril is at hand."
"If there are indeed two more orc armies behind Rakal, they might make a good attempt, but they are all cowardly. In the face of the combined forces of Rivendell, they may turn. More elves are arriving daily. Some have already come bearing the mark of the peacock. It would seem that many know of the coming threat. "
"Lothlórien?" Legolas sat up, obviously surprised. "How could they know of the extent to which we need their alliance now? Lest the Lady of the Wood has foreseen it and sent help without the request."
"While you tarried in the gorge last evening, I spoke with a longtime friend who abides here now. And she said to me of some earlier arrivals who came at great speed and urgency, who bore the elven brooch of Lothlórien. The lady sees all, and is wise beyond measure. These elves may be at the council this day, and then we will know the total of our forces and the best manner in which to deal with Rakal."
Legolas stared blankly out the terrace of their room to the beautiful pristine architecture of ancient buildings across the dell, and almost against his will he began to think of earlier years riding horses with Illdinar carefree through the golden fields, barely beyond the forest glades of Mirkwood. An anger that he had seldom felt in all his long years began to well up deep inside of him.
"I know the best manner in which to deal with Rakal," he said under his breath.
At high noon, Legolas and Kerrinais left their chamber and walked towards the center square of Rivendell. As they approached the great stairway to the pavilion, Legolas paused briefly, looking back to the stable area.
"I should see to Neonean," he said, "She should be set loose this morning to graze as she may in the woods. I stabled her last evening after she wandered down into the gorge."
Kerrinais continued a few feet up the stone stairway, stopped and turned towards Legolas.
"Let us eat first Legolas. There will be time to set Neonean to the glades after. I must speak with Nillaithion before the council begins, and he may be in the pavilion. You may set Neonean loose after the meal." Legolas pondered this for a moment, and started up the stairs, following Kerrinais to the landing. Here they crossed an intricately carved stone archway that led further into a covered pavilion area. From the opposite end of the pavilion, began another stairway. Servant maidens were quickly entering the landing from this other entrance, carrying trays of food and water for the noon meal. Kerrinais walked directly to a tall, dark-haired elf, sitting on the stone. An elf maiden hurriedly poured water from a silver pitcher into a small goblet, as he held it up to her. He turned and saw Kerrinais, who greeted him with a great smile, and the tall elf sat down beside him. The two began to speak in elvish, in subdued flowing voices. Legolas surveyed the small area, thinking where he could sit. Stepping over a wooden plate, laden with freshly picked fruits and berries, he settled himself between Kerrinais and Athonan, an elf of Rivendell, and reached for a plate of dried meat. Biting into the long, thin strip, Legolas gazed upward and saw the small figure of Lisaine approach them. She bore a water pitcher and several empty goblets on a small wooden tray. She came to Legolas first, kneeling meekly before him. Placing the tray onto the stone, she began pouring a cup of water.
"A drink for you, my lord," she said politely. But as Legolas watched her, he felt troubled, as though a great tumult of thought was flying through her mind. He felt almost confused in her presence. Her long auburn hair was tied with a single, small braid on either side of her temple, and pulled back. The braids secured with a sparkling shell barrette. Kerrinais merely turned and grasped a goblet from her hand, and continued his conversation with Nillaithion, unphased. She held up a goblet to Legolas, staring directly into his bright blue eyes. He did not take the goblet, but instead simply stared back at her. Another awkward silence ensued between the two, even though all those surrounding them were busily conversing. At last, she nervously placed the goblet on the stone floor before him, and began pouring another drink for the elf sitting to the left of Legolas.
"Your horse is well recovered from her adventure in the gorge yesterday, my lord?" Lisaine said matter-of-factly. He sat silent for another moment before answering her.
"You are not worrying of my horse," he said finally. Lisaine's glance shot up at him as she was placing the third goblet down, her eyes widened. She stared at Legolas in wonderment, not knowing how to reply. Regaining her composure, she grasped the edge of the tray and stood up before him.
"You will find your drink most pleasant, my lord. The water is fresh and clean to those who journey to us from the dry, far lands in the East," she said. Bowing her head slightly, she turned and walked quickly across the pavilion towards the serving area. Legolas's eyes followed her until she disappeared down the stairway.
Quickly descending the steps, Lisaine walked directly to a large wooden table. Several trays were already on it, some empty, some filled with bowls of fruits or meats, some with pitchers of water. There were two maidens bustling about the table, sprinkling herbs at the last moment upon the meats, or breaking lembas loaves into smaller, more manageable pieces. Here Lisaine placed her tray with the now empty water pitcher. She proceeded to the doorway that led to an open hallway, which in turn, led to the square. No maiden was imposed upon to serve where they had no wish to, and therefore her leaving was not considered unusual. But Alnein, who was only now returning to the table with a large bowl of freshly picked berries, saw Lisaine hurrying away. The elf had intended to converse with her friend, but Lisaine's nervous countenance was oddly conspicuous, and she thought not to detain the princess. Alnein walked silently to the door and watched Lisaine hurry away, almost running. Then Alnein looked back in the direction of the pavilion, half wondering if someone had said something to upset her friend. Her eyes fell upon each elf, until her gaze came to rest upon the serious Legolas. Meanwhile, Lisaine continued to the square and did not stop until she was almost at the great hewn archway that heralded the entrance to the city of Rivendell. There, finally, she paused, turning her head back in the direction of the pavilion. She could see the maidens still bustling back and forth as the meal continued, and then with her head hung low, she continued towards the forest.
Alnein brought the bowl of berries to the pavilion, and began to pour a small amount on each plate. As she approached Kerrinais, he glanced over at her and a huge smile came to his face. Bowing his head, he placed his arm across his chest and extended it outwards towards her. Alnein broke into a subdued grin, and bowed her head in turn, pouring some berries on Legolas's plate, and then Kerrinais's.
"I am glad you are here," she said to Kerrinais, "It has been too long since I have had the pleasure of seeing my Mirkwood kin. How fairs our mother?"
"She is well," he grinned, "I wish only that our presence here were under gladder tidings. I have not the time to visit now, as Legolas and I are wanted in council shortly, but perhaps in the evening I may seek you out and you can tell me how goes it here in the water city of Rivendell."
Alnein looked shyly at Legolas, who took no notice of her. He was busy speaking to another woodland elf who had also traveled to Rivendell from afar, though not from Mirkwood.
"Fair thee well, my brother," Alnein smiled, "Until the dusk then." Kerrinais bowed his head one more time, and she passed by him, pouring berries onto yet another plate.
After the meal, Legolas and Kerrinais ascended another long stairway from the pavilion. At the top, there was an open-arched walkway, leading to yet more steps. Ivy and flowers clung to the ancient carved stones. The rambling vines and stones were wet with dew and mist, even as the sun rose above them. As they climbed, Kerrinais looked out past the arches, to the many waterfalls that surrounded the city of Rivendell. Trees brimming with colored leaves shone in the bright afternoon sunlight. The morning mists had dissipated, but the constant mists from the crashing falls were always in motion around the gorge area. The upsweep of the air drafts from the water fell on their faces with crisp, clean air mixed with tiny water droplets. Even though Rivendell was entering the fall season, flowers blooming year round added purples and blues to the spectacular sight. At the very top of the stairway, the entrance to the home of Lord Elrond, Kerrinais stopped momentarily to take in the marvelous sight of Rivendell, bathed in magnificent colors.
From this perch, Legolas and Kerrinais could see most of the city and the gorge beneath. As Legolas looked over the beautiful landscape in its entirety, his elven eyes perceived a solitary young woman at the water's edge, in the gorge below. At first, she was hidden from his sight by the massive branches of an ancient oak tree, but she stepped carefully to her left, and then came directly into his view. Squinting his eyes slightly, he gazed at her relaxed demeanor as she knelt down, holding something within her outstretched hand. Legolas stood there watching, and then to his surprise, he saw a small baby rabbit hop cautiously from underneath a bush. The young woman remained perfectly still as the rabbit came closer and closer, until at last, it took a tentative bite of her offering. There she remained for some minutes while the tiny rabbit munched happily on the bit of food. Then, satisfied, the rabbit hopped back to the safety of the bush, and the maiden placed the rest of its lunch by the bush. She stood up, brushing her brown and gray gown with a tiny hand and continued her way down into the gorge, singing.
He could not understand the words of her serenade over the crashing of the great falls, but the melody, light and gay, was clear to his ears. Legolas's lips gradually curled upwards into a slight smile as she escaped his sight. Kerrinais motioned to Legolas and continued into the entranceway to Lord Elrond's house. Legolas glanced in the direction of the gorge one last time before he followed.
Several high council members had already assembled when Legolas and Kerrinais arrived. Lord Elrond sat upon a large, high-backed wooden chair to the right of the doorway, and each walked over to him, bowing in respect, before taking their seats in the great circle. The sun was high now, and it filtered through the vast treetops onto the ground all around them. The breeze was stronger at the top of the ridge and leaves blew carelessly onto the landing. Legolas's long hair moved in the chilly autumn breeze, but he showed no signs of being cold. Next to Kerrinais sat lords Balanthos and Menarn of the great city of Isodor. Beside them were Hanthenar and Dalidanor of the far kingdom of Lothlórien. Also there were Luinerothion, Kostranion, and Marsangaion of Rivendell, the trusted lords of Elrond. They sat conversing quietly, when the eleventh and final member called to the council arrived. Kerrinais turned his head, observing the tall man's gray weathered robes and knurled staff. For this visitor, Lord Elrond rose to his feet and extended his hand in greeting. The man removed his hat and shuffled to the one remaining empty seat, nodding to each assembled elf as he passed by. Lord Elrond remained standing until everyone was seated, then he proceeded to the center of the circle. His expression was of solemn gravity.
"You are here because a new menace comes to our borders," he said sternly, "Rakal the Destroyer comes to overthrow the elven cities of Isodor and Rivendell. As we speak, his unfettered army approaches the forest of Isodor from the east. Therefore I have assembled you to come together to discuss our defenses of the cities and how to repel this invader."
A slow murmur of garbled, astonished disbelief rose over the room at the mere mention of Rakal's name. Balanthos rose from his seat, looking about the assembly.
"We are from the mellow woodlands of Isodor. There has been no word or tidings that an army comes hither, especially the Dark Lord's evilest minion, whom to all of us is but a rumor. There is no proof that Rakal even exists, and surely we would have some knowledge of his approach from the outreaches of the mountains."
Kerrinais stood up.
"There are those who have seen him first hand and lived to tell of it. Three of us traveled from great Mirkwood at the request of King Thranduil nigh on one full moon ago. We traversed all the area in the great valley between the mountains and the great forest. ALL the cities along mighty Anduin lie in waste from Rakal's army. We arrived in Euphratas even as the city was overthrown, and saw Rakal astride his black horse, come from the wastelands. He bears the mark of the red arrow, and we have seen his work firsthand. Our companion was lost in the battle at Euphratas, and only by stealth did we escape ourselves."
Balanthos stared at Kerrinais in disbelief, and slowly took his seat.
"Rakal is no rumor," said Gandalf. All attention turned to him. "Rakal relies on concealment rather than speed. He leaves no witness to his deeds, and therefore believes he has time to move his army where he will. To attack without the fear of previous discovery is his ambition. He does not fret of meeting with great defenses. His glory is in his arrogance, and this is where we must look to his undoing. Obviously he believes Legolas and Kerrinais to be dead or he would be moving quicker to his mark. But he has grown too confident in his conquests, and he will not be prepared for elven resistance in Isodor. He will be the one who is surprised."
"How many approach Isodor?" asked Menarn to Kerrinais. The elf stood motionless, contemplating how to break the news of the massive army. Menarn looked then to Legolas.
"The army is large," Legolas said gravely, "2,000 strong at least. With at least 700 horses counted among them, and well armored." All talking stopped, and there was a long silence as the elven generals pondered Legolas's words.
"Rakal's army will be at Isodor in 10 days," said Lord Elrond looking about the room, "We must assemble what strength we may and confront them in Tamlot, the outlying woods of Isodor. At least there, his horses may not be of much use to him. They will find the thistles and ravines difficult to traverse, and we may use what power we have in the woods to confuse them."
"You cannot hope for reinforcements from Lothlórien in that short a time!" said Dalidan jumping to his feet. He was visibly shaken. "It will be 15 days before our warriors can arrive, even at great speed!"
Lord Elrond sighed as he gazed at the visitor.
"Yet, 10 days is all we have before the storm ascends," said Lord Elrond. Then looking all about him, Elrond said in a commanding voice,
"The future of Elvendom in Middle-Earth is in our hands. We are outnumbered as we stand today, but we MUST defend the city or each elven kingdom will suffer the same fate after. Rakal seeks to conquer ALL in his master's service, and he has set his sights upon Isodor. I have already dispatched riders to all areas calling for aid, but until help arrives, we here MUST hold them. Now, we have much preparation. I will meet with you individually to determine what areas you must command. Until then, make ready and I bid you, our most trusted elf lords, to attend the Nissalos feast this night. We go to war in two days time, and will meet Rakal in the woodlands of Tamlot."
With that, the elves rose from their seats and began to file away, bowing low to Lord Elrond as they descended the stairs to the long, covered walkway. Gandalf arose last, and he shuffled over to Lord Elrond. The two turned back and retreated into Lord Elrond's main receiving room. There were no closed rooms in any elven home; such was the elves love for forest and nature. Every room then was open to the trees and flowers. Birds flew freely through the great hallways, their nests concealed within the climbing ivy that licked at every window and terrace. As the two friends walked, leaves crackled beneath their feet and the breezes blew through the rounded windows.
"Gandalf," said Lord Elrond pensively, "I am concerned of this rash move of Rakal. He does nothing without the Dark Lord's command, yet I cannot foresee his purpose here. Why now? Why Isodor and Rivendell? We are the least defended, but we are the hardest to traverse here in the mountains." Gandalf paused to reflect on his words. He stepped closer to Elrond, whispering as though he believed the very walls could hear him.
"I am not sure that all of Rakal's deeds here are sanctioned by his dark master. His pride should not be underestimated, Lord Elrond. He has grown too confident in his conquests, and I sense that he wants a complete triumph over something, but I don't know what. His moves until now were to wipe out the mortal cities in the Anduin valley, but his coming here so soon makes little sense. He is after something here besides obliteration of the elves, but I cannot tell you what it is."
Lord Elrond looked to his hand and held it up. Upon his finger sat, Vilya, the Ring of Air, handed down to him by Gil-galad. Its ocean-blue sapphire sparkled brightly.
"It could be he has come for this," he said, "If Rakal can defeat all of the elven kingdoms, then the Dark Lord could assemble the three elven rings. With half of the mortal race gone in the Anduin valley, and dominion over all the forests, the Dark Lord could easily crush what remains in Gondor and Rohan. Even now, Gondor stands guard over the closed and silent black gates, unaware that Rakal is laying waste to all the lands of the Northern territories. When Rakal returns to his master in Mordor, it will be too late for Gondor to mount a defense on all sides."
"The Dark Lord hopes to conquer Middle-Earth without the one thing that he needs for a swift victory. If Rakal can take half the elven kingdoms, then matters will be worsened tenfold," whispered Gandalf. He began to walk further into the reaches of the spacious chamber. Lord Elrond remained stationary.
"Gandalf, there is one more thing."
Gandalf turned, half surprised.
"There has come to us a survivor from Irwindal," he said. Gandalf raised his eyebrows.
"Oh?"
"Yes," continued Lord Elrond, "She has visited us many times in the past, but she has escaped from Irwindal during the night of the attack. And it brings me to hope that if she has survived, perhaps there are others. Perhaps that is why Rakal hastens to Isodor. Perhaps he knows there are survivors there, and he would wish to wipe them out. I have spoken to this maiden twice, but I feel she does not want to relay everything to me. Perhaps you should talk to her. She may be able to tell us something that will help our efforts." Gandalf nodded.
"Perhaps I will," he replied.
Kerrinais and Legolas lingered in the armory for much of the afternoon, examining such weapons as there were on hand. To this end, there were many weapons of war kept in the elven armory. Even as Lord Elrond kept an ample supply of bows and knives against a sudden need, every elf was just as likely to carry their own personal weapons, which they preferred. A strange handle, or bow tension did not lend itself to more accuracy, and only at times of dire need would a woodland elf be caught with such armament. Still, in the advent of a crisis, the elven smiths labored at creating such bright long knives and arrowheads with beauteous scrolling as to be worthy of the noble race.
Late in the afternoon, Legolas parted company with his companion and made for the stables to release Neonean. As he walked, he reproached himself, thinking that the great mare would be terribly annoyed with him for keeping her pent up throughout the morning. He climbed a small slope and entered the tall barn, covered in ivy but for the windows, which were clean of foliage. The moment he walked through the great open doorway, he could hear a faint laughter and then a melodious humming. The sound was soothing to him, and in his curiosity, Legolas quickened the pace to find its source. When he turned the corner, he stopped short. There he saw Lisaine standing at the stall entrance, singing softly to Neonean while feeding the mare a wild carrot. He scuffed his foot so that Lisaine would hear his approach, which she did. Her song stopped abruptly and she spun her head around. Even in the darker recesses of the barn, Lisaine imagined a golden hue shining about him. Legolas stopped 10 feet from the stall, unwilling to venture closer. Quickly she turned her eyes, so as not to stare at him. Legolas was obviously annoyed at her intrusion.
"Surely this is the most beautiful animal I have ever seen," she said at last.
"You should not stand so close to her," Legolas admonished, "This horse does not take kindly to strangers. What were you doing just now?"
The princess did not back away from where she stood despite Legolas's remark. Looking back to the horse's serene face, Lisaine said,
"A beast with a good heart will know when it is in good company, I think. I am sure she would do no harm to me, my lord. As for what I was doing, I was just talking to her, that is all."
"Talking?" he replied in surprise.
"Yes," Lisaine said amiably, "Do you suppose naught but an elf may talk to a horse?"
"But you cannot understand her reply," he interjected.
Her comments both confused and interested him. The elves talked to animals as though they were having a conversation with another elf. They whispered to an animal, and could understand its voice as a language. But to Legolas's knowledge, no other race contained that ability. Lisaine also knew this. She also knew that Legolas mistook her meaning. She simply spoke to animals sweetly and tenderly and knew that they enjoyed the sounds of her voice. To his comment then, Lisaine gazed wistfully at Neonean. No, she could not speak to the horse as he could. At length, she smiled at the elf.
"I understand her perfectly," she said slyly, "She would have my last carrot."
Legolas broke into a small, uncontained laugh, as he walked over to open Neonean's stall gate. He seemed more at ease now.
"I believe you are right," he grinned as he pulled the gate open, "Great horses have great appetites, and this one more than most."
The giant mare calmly walked out, nuzzled Legolas's neck, and turned her head towards Lisaine, who now stood at her flank. Lisaine lifted up her one remaining carrot to the horse. Neonean munched on it while Legolas patiently waited. Then Lisaine stepped back and watched the slim, tall elf walk from the stable with the gray mare obediently following. She waited some moments after they left before she stepped lightly to the barn door entrance. The mountain breezes were cool upon her face, and she silently scanned the area until her eyes caught site of Legolas just before he disappeared around the stone entryway in the square. He was leading Neonean down the main road to the pastures in the forest. Even after he was gone, it seemed to her that a faint golden glow hung in the air around the archway. Lisaine likened it to a sparkle of morning dew on the winding woodland ivy. She stood there engrossed in her pleasurable thoughts, smiling to herself without concern, when she was suddenly drawn back to the present. The princess abruptly gazed upwards to see Alnein standing at her room's terrace, intently watching the entire scenario. There was a blank expression resting upon the elf's face. Feeling embarrassed, Lisaine quickly left the barn and headed in the direction of the forge. She did not want to escape to the river, her favorite place, and risk Alnein watching her leave in the same direction as Legolas. From her balcony, Alnein watched Lisaine disappear into the forge and then she turned her head to the great archway where Legolas had drawn Neonean moments before. Alnein pulled herself away from the balcony and proceeded into her chamber, sighing.