As I have said before.. the story here takes a large leap away from
Tolkien's writing, so bear with me. I think you will hopefully.. find the
story still intriguing. and you might be surprised at the twists that will
continue to follow..
Thanks to all the reviewers.. your feedback helps with the inspiration.. thank you for your patience.. my "real" job takes me away from home so I have not been able to update as quickly as I'd like.. I shall try to upload another chapter quickly.. Thanks again..
Fianna
Chapter Ten: Portals
Tathar closed his eyes, leaning his head back against the back of his chair, listening to the near silent footsteps of the retreating sentinel. Haldir was here, on his border, with Tári. Why? He'd been sure that Haldir would do as he asked. Galadriel. It could only be Galadriel. He could not have mistaken Haldir. He was sure of it.
He rose, walking to the window to peer out. The moon would rise in a few days. Was that all the time he had left? Keliar would bring them here, quickly, once the sentinel returned to him. But still, it would be another day gone. One day out of very few left to him.
They had not encountered any Orc patrols. That was odd. When he returned, the news had been grave. The sentinels had indeed retreated to the castle. The Orcs had attempted to breach the castle, but had been defeated. But had returned again and again. Only to retreat the last time, quickly, as if withdrawn purposely. He had returned the next day. Were the events related?
Casualties had been minor for his people. The castle was strong, his sentinels excellent with bow. Still, something was not right. How did it all tie together? And now, Haldir? He gripped the stone sill of the window. He hated riddles.
Haldir glanced behind him. Tári strode quickly, her eyes scanning the path around her, a fierce frown curving her lips. She was impatient and worried. They were nearing the green-elves home, he could sense the change in both Tári and Keliar. They climbed a short hill, the pine trees thick here, almost a solid wall. They passed through a narrow opening. Before them lay an open field, the bright sunlight blinding them for only a moment. Across the field a great stone castle sat on a small rise, its four slim ivory towers soaring elegantly into the open sky, long silken banners flapping briskly in the breeze.
Green-elves hurried along the walls, their white hair glittering in the sunshine. Haldir glanced at Tári, aware she had a strong hold on her emotions. He could sense her frustration, but she stayed in his formation, behind him. Keliar had sprinted ahead, pushing open the wide carved wooden doors below the castle rampart. Several Laiquendi greeted him, their glances settling quickly on the Lórien elves.
Haldir reached the castle, scanning the inner courtyard. The castle was crowded with elves. Tents and assorted sleeping arrangements filled most nooks and crannies, sentinels paced the ramparts above. The air was heavy with trepidation. He stopped when Keliar reached the castle steps, pausing as the door opened above him and Tathar stepped out into the brilliant sunshine. Haldir sighed. It was time.
Tathar hurried down the steps, noting immediately that Tári stood behind Haldir, in a position of servitude. She did not move forward, and his brow rose slightly, reaching out to greet Keliar and Haldir.
"I am not happy to see you March Warden."
Haldir bowed deeply. "As I am not happy to be here, my lord."
Tathar glanced at Tári, but her eyes were downcast. "Why have you come? Has Galadriel sent you?"
Haldir had followed Tathar's glance. "Aye, I have been sent on her orders, my lord."
Tathar nodded, and turned back into the castle. The elves followed quickly. The castle's main hall glittered in the sunlight that streamed down from high stained glass windows overlooking the room, the light shifting in an array of colors. The walls of large stone block glistened, and huge tapestries covered many, depicting ancient elven heroes from ages past. Tathar crossed to a chair that sat near a large ornate fireplace. A low fire burned quietly, crackling in the silence.
Haldir followed Tathar, glancing at Tári as she walked behind him "Galadriel has seen more than your vision, my lord. She does not know whether it shall come to pass, but felt it dire that we follow." Haldir reached back, drawing Tári to his side.
"She fears for your daughter, Lord Tathar. If you follow the path that you have seen, it is very likely that she may die as well. The Orcs lie in wait. Their leader, Sauron, watches over your lands in hunger, knowing few of you remain. He too, sees visions, and Galadriel has felt him watching you." Haldir released Tári's arm, nodding slightly to her. She crossed to her father quickly, kneeling at his feet.
"Why does she look to you for your approval?" Tathar asked, bending over to grip Tári's chin. "What have you done now?"
"I have disobeyed you. I tried to follow." Tári cringed slightly, feeling her father's grip tighten on her chin.
"Why? I asked you not to! And Haldir prevented it? He must have, for you to be with him? But I sense you have done more, and by the look in your eyes, I see I am right." He released her chin to sit back. He stared at Haldir. "She stood behind you as one of your wardens. Galadriel has made her such?"
Haldir nodded. "Aye. She will continue to be one until I feel her retribution has been made."
Tathar clenched the arms of his chair. "I do not think I want to hear why." He glared at Tári who bowed her head. "What has Galadriel seen, that she feels Tári is in danger? Had she stayed in Lórien she would be safe."
Haldir did not speak for a moment, formulating his answer. "Galadriel saw that she would try to follow. Even caught and reprimanded, still she would have found a way to return to you. She is stubborn. Her death in her attempt to return to you would have served no purpose. The Orcs lie in wait, they watch, they have seen our patrol pass through your lands. Her death would have been one, among many, from those who only wait for such an opportunity."
Haldir gripped his sword, his gaze pinned on the Laiquendi Lord. "Celeborn said to remember. Your wife's death need not be repeated. Our world is balancing on the edge of a knife. We must use anything that will gain an advantage. You have that which can help you, if you would use it. Galadriel said you must not be afraid. This time it will aid you, not hinder."
The Laiquendi Lord had risen, his face pale. But he did not speak. Tári stared at him, worry etched on her face. Tathar ran a hand through his long hair, a shaking hand.
"You do not understand what you ask, Haldir." Tathar said quietly. "I have long avoided that thought, that cursed idea. How tempted I have been to use it."
Lord Tathar turned, reaching out next to the fireplace, and pushed a small brick aside. A creaking sound grew, a groaning of displacement, and the wall in front of him shifted aside. The stones shuddered, dust falling onto his shoulders when he stepped through the small portal. Tári jumped to her feet, her eyes wide with astonishment.
They followed the Laiquendi lord into the chamber. All around them, under heavy layers of dust, lay parchments. Stacks of parchments so old they threatened to crumble with the slight breeze that now swept into the chamber. Diffused light filtered into the chamber from a window high overhead. Tathar coughed as he lifted a small silver cloth from the table before him. Underneath lay a globe that sparkled with tiny white flashes of light, amid a swirling fog of colors.
"A seeing stone?" Tári asked in astonishment, but Tathar shook his head.
"Nay, not those of which you speak." Tathar sat down in a chair, an explosion of dust settling around him, but he did not seem to notice. His eyes were closed again, his face drawn. "Tári, I have not been truthful in all that I have taught you. Few know of our kind, fewer yet realize from whence we came so many years ago. We are called Drow, and many of our kind are servants of the very evil we fight now. Dark elves, Tári, if you can believe such a thing.'
Tári stepped back in surprise, and felt Haldir's hand on her shoulder. He knew this.
Lord Tathar glanced at the globe. "I left my world long ago. I was not like them, I could not be a servant of the dark lord. I had heard the call of the light. So I gathered those I knew that would follow me, who felt the same. We left the dark tunnels of the drow. They live still, Tári, those dark elves, far beneath us. They lie in wait for me still, hating the fact that I renounced them. I am cursed among them. I had thought I was free from them, but they found us, and almost destroyed my very life. I have fought them ever since. The dark elves do not like the sunlight, they fear it, and do not come to the surface. I gloried in it, as did your mother. She had powers that I could not equal. Galadriel knew of them. Powers I believe you may possess."
Tári shuddered. What was he saying? "Dark elves, Father? Servants of Sauron!"
Tathar turned, meeting Haldir's gaze. "I thought my wife's powers would protect us. I was wrong. They found us one day, through their magic. They did not come to the surface, but used their minions, through Sauron, to find and trap us. They killed her, knowing her powers, but also her weakness. I was a weakness. Her concern for me, her love. They used it against her."
Tári felt Haldir squeeze her shoulder. "But there are more who follow your path," Haldir said quietly. "Only they still fear the sunlight. Powerful drow who can aid you, if you but ask it of them. They can teach Tári what she must learn."
The Laiquendi Lord glanced at the globe. "Galadriel has seen this, has she not? The Drow know where I am. They only wait for me to weaken my defenses. Sauron watches me, yes. And I know they aid him in his sight. Their magic is powerful. They gain strength from the darkness in which they live. They give him much of his power, they create many of his weapons. Swords that will never break, instilled with an evil thirst for blood."
Haldir did not move, nor remove his hand from Tári's shoulder. She felt it tighten. "Aye, that is true. But you know of those whom I speak. They hide among your people, but long to follow the way of the light. Call on them, this time they will aid you, they will come. Time is short, the moon rises in two days. They must come before the moon is full."
Tathar shuddered visibly. "If I open the portal, Haldir, how can I be certain it is those who follow me that will come forth? I fear I shall unleash more evil into this world."
Tári had struggled to follow the story her father told. "I don't understand? What are you saying? There are more Laiquendi?"
Tathar turned to her, scowling. "Nay, the Drow are not Laiquendi! Do not give them that name! Most are evil, hateful creatures, who live only to destroy." The green-elf leaned back, covering his eyes.
"Our world lies on the edge of a knife." Haldir repeated. "You can help save it, or follow your vision, its path still lies before you. Your people," Haldir stressed "can help. You are few, but powerful, you can fight the evil that Sauron has spread over your land. Your abilities in tracking the creatures of night, sensing their presence, is powerful. You must use that power, Tathar. The drow will come to your aid, their time is at hand, but you must take the first step, the portal must be opened."
Lord Tathar sat up, his expression resolute. His eyes were calm as he gazed at Tári. "He is right. I have two paths to take." He rose, crossing to the glittering globe. "I have not used this, in all the years I have had it. It links me to my world. It will open the portal should I command it." Tathar looked at Haldir again. "I must trust your judgment. I do not know what will happen to me. My wife controlled the stone, not I, and it took much from her to use it."
Tári started to reach out to her father, but was held back against Haldir's chest.
"She must do it." Haldir said firmly.
Tathar turned to Haldir abruptly, his gaze locked onto Haldir's. "She has no idea of its power, or how to use it."
Haldir shook his head. "It is inherent in her, she will know once she connects. It will destroy you if you make the attempt yourself. Galadriel stressed this. Do not try to control the globe."
Tári stared at her father, his face was pale.
"I cannot help you," he said softly. "You must open your mind. Hold it, allow it to connect with your thoughts. The light, you must concentrate on the light, Tári. Do not be drawn into the darkness."
Tári glanced at Haldir. He face was impassive, but the grey depths of his eyes warmed her. She felt his strength, his confidence, do not be afraid.
"I don't know what to do. How will I know if I have connected? How must I open the portal?"
'The stone will show you, it will know who you are. The others will feel your presence." Tathar said, gripping her shoulder.
"They have been waiting for you." It was Galadriel's voice unexpectedly in her head.
Keliar turned suddenly from where he'd been watching from the back of the room, his eyes wide with surprise. Orcs, outside the walls. He turned back to Haldir.
"Orcs! I must go! I need your elves, Haldir."
Haldir turned to Keliar. "It is why we are here." He spun quickly back to Tári, ignoring Lord Tathar's surprise, and gripped her arms. "I have seen your strength of will, and your focus. Remember the coins? Focus, do not be distracted."
Tári swallowed. "But I failed the test, I." She stopped when Haldir tightened his grip, pulling her closer to him.
"There were only four, Tári. You won. Be strong, I know your will." He kissed her suddenly, a hard kiss for which he made no apology to her father, and spun, following Keliar back into the castle.
Tári touched her lips, sliding a nervous glance at her father. Tathar's expression was only amused.
"I see more has happened than I want to know." He said, his eyebrow rising sardonically.
Tári turned back to the globe, staring at the swirling fog of color, the tiny lights drawing her closer, closer, drawing her into the fog.
She was surrounded by the swirling mists, the rainbow hues of color eddying around her, encasing her. The lights flashed all around her, calling to her, seeking her. But there was darkness too. It hovered on the edge of the mists, waiting for her, watching her. Drawing her as well. She was torn, both light and dark calling her.
Tári reached out toward a flashing light, capturing the brilliance, gazing down at the glow that now filled her hands. She held it up, whispering words to it that she did not know or remember knowing. The light grew stronger; glaring brilliance that flooded over her, muting the swirling colors. It formed into a figure, a she-elf, and settled in front of her.
"You have come! We have waited long years for you. I must see you, come to me!"
Tári felt herself drawn up, and realized she had become one of the flashing lights, felt herself pulled forward, the swirling colors shifting into a colorful blur, and then she was standing in a room, darkness surrounding her.
"You are Tári?" The voice echoed in her head. A light flickered, and she could finally see. A tall she-elf stood before her. The room was like Tathar's, filled with parchments and assorted books, a large table filled with vials and more parchments behind the elf. But Tári could only stare at the elf before her.
"I am Windred. A high priestess of the drow. I have waited for you for many years. I am your aunt." The elf smiled. It was her eyes that drew Tári, dark murky brown eyes that held a touch of laughter. Her father's eyes.
Tári smiled nervously. "I am Tári. Where am I?"
"You are deep within the earth, I have pulled you through the portal. I have lit the candle so that you may see, I do not need the light."
"If you can control the globe, why have you not come forward sooner?" Tári asked.
Windred laughed softly. "I can control the portal only through you. The globe was your mother's and her powers have been passed to you. Only you can control the globe. You allowed me to bring you here. You must be more wary."
Tári frowned. "Others could do the same?"
Windred nodded. "Aye, but only if you let them."
"What must I do now?" Tári stared at the elf when she turned to her table.
"You must wait. I will gather those who will come, and you must pull us through the portal. I will tell you how. But the powers of darkness watch. They feel the portal has opened. They are waiting for you to weaken, to draw you to them. The drow seek to find you in order to destroy you. We must hurry."
Tári watched as the drow sat down, her arms outstretched beside her, murmuring to herself softly. She lowered her arms, the murky eyes settling on Tári again. "They are coming."
"Are there no other portals?" Tári stared around her, the candle light only illuminating a small area of the room. She suddenly didn't want to know what else was there.
Windred smiled. "Aye, once there was. But they have been destroyed. We destroyed them, those of us who wish to follow the ways of the light. We sought to keep the drow deep underground, our only means of gaining the surface. None know of our deception. But there are those that knew of your mother, and they know still one globe remains. She was a high priestess, your mother, strong in her power. When she left it was a great loss to the darkness. It was a great loss to the light, when she died."
"You know of her death?'
Windred turned away, "I watched it, felt it, and could do nothing to stop it. We tried, but the powers of evil were greater."
"How do I get back?" Tári whispered, suddenly feeling very uneasy. Windred turned to her, her face growing pale.
"What do you sense? You are uneasy?"
Tári nodded and the priestess hurried to her, gripping her arms. "Then they are coming for you, you must go back into the light. Do not leave the swirling mists, we will come to you, but linger there. It is your only protection. They seek to destroy you. You will know us when we come. But the darkness hovers close, fight against it! The light.. remember the light."
She was within the swirling mists again, but the uneasiness followed her. The lights flashed around her still, but quickly, as if in terror. Dark spots fluttered in her vision. They drew closer to her when she focused her thoughts on them, growing larger. Light, she must think only of the light! She pushed away the uneasiness, focusing on the sense of light. The dark spots receded, but hovered along the edge of her vision. How long must she stay here? What if she grew tired, weak? The dark spots drew closer. NO! she was strong. They receded again.
She felt the call of the flashing light, the small sphere skimming around her. Send it! Send it where? She caught the light in her hands. Send it! The sphere blinked rapidly. Throw it!
Tári threw it. The tiny sphere burst into a bright glaring flash of light and she turned away, hiding her eyes. The flashing light was gone. Another bounded around her head. Hurry!
The flashing lights were gone, only swirling mist remained. But the darkness was closing in. She could feel its pull. It was stronger, or was she weaker? The dark spots danced in front of her eyes, almost gleeful. They were waiting too. She backed away, they followed, circling around her. The uneasiness grew to terror. She had to get out, before they sought to control her thoughts. Control! That brought the thought of Haldir. Control, the coins were only four. She'd won!
Tári fell to the floor, the cool stone welcome. The globe lay shattered at Tathar's feet, his face was white.
"It is done then." The voice was that from her head, from the darkness. Tári opened her eyes to see Windred leaning over her, her long white hair falling near to her knees. "Welcome back, Tári."
* *
The fight against the Orcs was fierce, darkness had fallen, but the field was lit with the multitude of torches carried by the Orcs outside the walls. The arrows whistled over head and Tári ducked unconsciously, hurrying down the castle steps. Elves ran about, gathering the arrows, sending them to the sentinels on the ramparts.
Tári ran along the wall, searching for Haldir and Keliar. Laiquendi and Lothlórien elves alike manned the ramparts, their arrows flying quickly, death and screams of pain echoing amid the sounds of the battle. They would be together. She gasped as an arrow whistled past her, quivering in the wooden post next to her. She pulled it free, stuffing it into the quiver on her back. She ran up the stone stairs leading to the ramparts, ducking another arrow that flew past her head. She pushed past the sentinels lining the walls, their glances touching her briefly before concentrating on the Orcs below them again. She was welcome here.
She could hear Tathar's shouts, and feel the sense of her Aunt and her people. How would they help? What were they doing? She couldn't worry. She pushed around a support, sliding along the stone edge quickly. Where were they? She stepped back as a group of Lórien elves pushed forward, manning the walls beside her. They must be near! She hurried along the wall further, squeezing past more elves. She burst through the corner tower, and onto the rampart on the opposite side. Something was wrong!
She pushed aside the elf in front of her, his glare fading quickly when he saw her. She gripped her bow, but stopped with a gasp. Keliar was in front of her, but he was crouching. His head came up when he sensed her concern, and he grinned.
Haldir was lying on the rampart, an arrow embedded into his shoulder, glaring at the Laiquendi commander.
"What has happened?" Tári asked, crouching beside Keliar. Haldir grunted and closed his eyes.
Keliar flexed his fist, staring at his knuckles. He grimaced but then a flash of humor lit his eyes. "He stepped in front of me, I wasn't paying attention. I didn't see the arrow coming, he knocked me out of the way. I owe him my life." He grinned, glancing up at Rumil who grinned back. "I offered to ease his pain, but the March Warden doesn't seem to agree on my methods."
Tári glanced at Haldir. He opened his eyes and rolled over, trying to sit. She helped Keliar pull him against the wall, out of range of any more missiles. She touched the arrow in his shoulder, ignoring the glare Haldir gave her. "I cannot heal like you can, Haldir. Rumil, can you?"
Rúmil looked down and shook his head. "Nay, but Orophin can. You must take out the arrow first." Haldir nodded in agreement.
Tári gripped the arrow, pushing gently on Haldir's chest for leverage. He grunted slightly and gripped her wrist, shaking his head. It was stuck fast. "I cannot remove it. It is lodged into his shoulder, Keliar."
Keliar frowned, glancing down at Haldir again. "I cannot then either, I will surely break it. You will have to dig in and loosen it."
Tári blanched, her horrified gaze meeting Haldir's calm one. "I cannot!"
Rúmil released the arrow he held nocked. And crouched down beside them. "We cannot heal him until you do." His blue eyes held hers. "You can do this."
Tári shuddered, glaring at Rúmil. "I have done enough harm to him, I can do no more!" She gasped when she felt a hand grip her forearm. Haldir was gazing at her, his grey eyes dark with emotion. She couldn't read his expression.
"You must, Tári." His voice was raspy with pain.
"I certainly can't do it with you awake!" she cried, and Keliar grinned, flexing his fist again. Haldir scowled at the Laiquendi commander.
"I can deal with it Tári. You cannot wait." He pulled her closer, his eyes inches from hers. "You must."
Tári's eyes were wide with apprehension. She'd done this before, many times. But it was Haldir, and suddenly it was different. But he was right. Keliar had stood again, and arrows flew unceasingly over head. How many Orcs were out there?"
"Tári!" his voice was deeper. She looked down, a small trickle of blood ran from his shoulder into the blond hair trapped beneath his arm. She closed her eyes, drawing out a knife from her wrist. She looked up, searching for a torch, and rose, hurrying over to the flame. She heated the knife, looking back to see Haldir had closed his eyes. She hurried back, crouching over him again, feeling the concerned gaze of Rúmil behind her.
She slid the knife under his tunics, slitting along the arrow, opening the fabric so she could see the wound. It was red, blood oozing from where the arrow entered his flesh. She looked at Haldir, and his eyes opened briefly, then closed. She bent over, willing her hands not to shake and slid the point into his shoulder along the shaft of the arrow. He flinched, unable to control the involuntary reaction, but made no other sound. She didn't dare look at his face. She felt the tip hit bone and grasped the arrow's shaft, moving the knifepoint slightly. Fresh blood erupted from Haldir's shoulder, but Tári gritted her teeth, prying harder on the knife point, feeling Haldir tense sharply beneath her.
Finally she felt the arrow move, and she dropped the knife, grasping the arrow's shaft with both hands. Pushing against his chest, she pulled on the arrow, feeling it resist, then loosen, sliding out of his shoulder quickly, followed by another flood of bright red blood. Tári threw the arrow away, cutting away a piece of her tunic to staunch the flow of blood. She was shaking, her arms trembling. She still couldn't look at him, for she feared she would burst into tears. She clenched her jaw, fighting off the emotions.
Keliar knelt down next to her, glancing at her expression. A quick squeeze of her shoulder and he stood back up. She glanced up, looking for Orophin, but he was further down the wall. She turned back to Haldir, pressing the fabric over his shoulder. His eyes were closed, and his face pale. Was he alright?
She knelt closer, brushing away a strand of blond hair from his cheek. "Haldir?"
He opened his eyes, staring at her, amusement and pain both gleaming from his eyes. "Aye?" his voice was hoarse.
"I didn't want to hurt you again."
He smiled crookedly, a grimace flashing over his face. "I know, Mouse."
She glanced back at Orophin, who smiled, but was unable to move. She glared at him, but then gazed back at Haldir. "What else can I do?"
Haldir sighed, shifting against the wall. His hair slid over his shoulder, stained with his blood. "You can kiss me." He laughed, pulling her against him. Tári sighed, wrapping her hands around his face, and kissed him, knowing it would tell him how she felt. He sighed and pulled her closer. She pushed him away when Orophin knelt down next to them.
Orophin crouched down, chuckling. "Now, this is not the time or place, brother." He reached out, placing his hand on Haldir's forehead, and the March Warden's eyes closed. Orophin gently lowered his brother back down onto the stone walkway.
"He fights me if he is awake. Too stubborn." Orophin said, placing his hands over Haldir's shoulder. It took only moments, and when Orophin removed his hands, the wound had closed. "Sometimes it does not pay to have such broad shoulders! He makes a better target!" Orophin chuckled again, "I will not wake him, let him heal." He rose to return to the wall, and Tári settled next to Haldir to wait for him to wake again.
* *
Tári stood up, staring in fear over the edge of the ramparts, the elves surrounding her quiet. What new devilry had begun? Below her the Orcs were still screaming, shouting hoarse oaths and threats, but they were no longer directed at the elves on the walls of the castle, but at the new threat creeping about their ankles.
Fog, like nothing Tári had ever seen before, was rising, slowly, eerily from the ground. Like fingers of a hand it rolled only inches over the ground, but when it encountered something solid, living, it rose up, surrounding the creature, engulfing it. The creature's screams lasted only moments, and the fog would disperse, leaving nothing behind. What was this?
Haldir braced himself, and stood, leaning against the stone wall, his gaze meeting Keliar's for a moment. "Drow magic, for once used against the evil that created it." He scowled, watching the fog swirl higher. The Orcs were swarming, trying to scatter, trying to avoid the nightmare that silently threatened them.
"Thank the Valar that no elf stands down in the field, the fog makes no distinction between good or bad, it is just hungry." The elves turned around to see Windred standing behind them with Lord Tathar.
Haldir and Keliar both bowed in greeting. Tári eyed her aunt, finally seeing the dark elf clearly. She stood quite tall, her long white hair hanging to her knees, pulled back only at the sides in a small braid. Her eyes were a murky brown, her skin darkly tanned. Tári stared at her eyes again, they seemed different in the light of the torches, glowing somehow.
Windred smiled scornfully, stepping beside Haldir to look over the wall. "I have longed for the day to use such magic against those creatures of evil. Abominations they are, created from the elves." She pushed away, glancing curiously at Haldir.
"You are Lothlorien. I recognize you, from an image sent to me from Galadriel. You are her Guardian."
Haldir bowed slightly. "I am, Lady Windred."
"The Orcs flee, but will be back." Windred stared at Lord Tathar. "Sauron's anger will be ten fold once he realizes the drow have used his own magic against him. You must gather your forces, and leave these lands, they are forsaken."
The Laiquendi Lord frowned. "I cannot leave these lands, Winfred. Too long have I fought for them. I will not give them up."
Windred sneered. "Then you will die as you saw in your vision, brother. If you cannot accept change and learn, then we have come for naught. You will slaughter us all with your stubbornness."
Windred turned to Tári. "You have no concept of your own strengths. We must teach you quickly. Come with me." She gripped Tári's hand, but Haldir reached out, halting the drow before she could move. Windred raised her eyes to Haldir, her smooth brows rising in disdain.
"You seek to stop me, gray-elf? Where I come from you would be on your knees to me."
Haldir stepped closer, his gaze growing icy and arrogant. Tári had never seen him like this. He was using all his power to intimidate Windred. Tári could see that he succeeded when she stepped back warily.
"But I am not from your world, and I will not, ever, bow to you." Haldir said softly. He leaned over Windred, his eyes glittering. "You are here because of the Lady of Light. The Laiquendi Lord would have followed his vision had I not intervened on your behalf. Your existence in this plane is by my will, you will remember that. This green-elf is my warden, and is under my command and protection. Teach what she may need, but do not think to sway her. She will return to me, and if I sense you have toyed with her mind, I will destroy you."
Windred smiled slowly, her eyes narrowed. "You are bold, Haldir of Lorien, to speak to me that way. Galadriel knows too well the mind of a Drow, she has taught you well. You have known of us longer than you imply, I see in your mind you have fought us before. How long ago was it? How did you fight the darkness that threatened your soul? I know this is why you grow concerned. Your warden is safe in my hands. I will return her to you as she is, only more powerful. Will you be able to accept that? Perhaps she will control you then?"
Haldir said nothing, and Tári gripped his sleeve, pulling his gaze to her. He nodded, and released Windred. The Drow chuckled.
"See, already she has learned. Beware, Haldir of Lorien, of where your heart leads you." She pulled Tári with her quickly, leaving the rampart wall, leaving the elves staring at them in confusion. All of them except Haldir, and Tathar.
* *
"Why do you taunt him so, Windred? I do not understand. You imply more than what is true." Tári whispered anxiously, hurrying after her Aunt. The Drow had released her once they reached the castle.
"Do I? Have you not looked into your heart, Green-elf?"
Tári stopped, tiring of the riddles. "We have no time to play games. We are surrounded by Orcs, my father and friends fight for their lives and you are suddenly sarcastic and unfriendly. What did you mean when you said that Haldir would be on his knees to you?"
Windred laughed softly. "I have made you angry. That is good, you need to be aware of your emotions. Where I am from, Tári, males are inferior." She turned to Tári, gripping her arm. " But that is not important. Do you know why they have brought us out of the darkness? To fight the darkness, as only those who have lived there can do so! Our magic is powerful but evil. But soon, the light of the moon will weaken our magic. Our powers fade in the light of the surface world."
"So that is why Haldir said we must hurry?"
"Yes, he knows more that what he reveals to you." Windred frowned, "he has dealt somehow with the world of the drow. Galadriel knows much, but he speaks from experience. We can destroy the Orcs that surround you now, giving you time to flee. Once the moon is full, we have only our inner senses, senses that can guide you; but no magic as we can create this day."
"Why then would Galadriel be so insistent that I bring you here?"
"Because, dear child, you have the ability to sense the dangers that will overcome this world. You are the key to the visions of both your father and the mirror in which Galadriel sees into. You can unlock those visions, warning them of evil to come."
"I don't understand, I have no sense of this?" Tári stepped back.
Windred gripped her arm again. "It is because we must teach it to you. We could have taught you more, so much more, had you been born in the world of the Drow. The light burns away the powers that grow in you, do you not feel it?"
Tári pulled her arm away, frustrated. "I feel nothing. I am only an elf, I have no special powers. I can fight, I can sense others sometimes, but I have nothing like that which you suggest. I do not want that."
Windred laughed wickedly. "You do not have any choice! Those powers manifest in you whether you will it or no, but they can destroy you. Haldir knows too well what he speaks of, Tári. His concerns are valid. Your father agrees, why do you think he did not stop Haldir in his tirade? So easily could I meld your mind to mine, to learn the dark ways."
Windred sighed. "But I follow the light. I have learned the ways of my people, Tári, I am a dark elf, I am not Laiquendi. I have created evil, I know evil. I have lived it. But I have also fought it, I know its strengths, its weaknesses."
* *
Haldir stretched his shoulder, the muscles were still tight from the arrow, healing could not cure that much. The Orcs had fled, and Tathar paced the ramparts, his gaze turned inward, struggling in his decision. He glanced at Haldir. "You were very bold to speak such to her, she could have killed you in an instant. Her magic is still strong yet, had you forgotten that?"
Haldir's expression hardened. "Nay I did not."
Tathar sighed. "You are quite amazing, March Warden. You are fearless. I lived with those elves for too long to stand up to her like that. I have my own powers, but the female of the drow have yet more. She is much like Galadriel.
Haldir scowled angrily. "Do not compare her to the Lady of Light."
Tathar sighed. 'You seem to know much of the drow, Haldir. More than you admit. You must tell me how you know this."
Haldir turned away, staring out at the ramparts, his jaw set. Orophin and Rúmil stepped closer, eyeing the Laiquendi Lord. Keliar stepped behind Tathar gazing at Haldir curiously.
"You remember my father's visit here." Haldir said, and acknowledged Tathar's nod. "When we left we were attacked by Orcs, and shadows we could not explain. Dark shadows that had as much power to destroy and maim as the Orcs. My father was taken, and I. Dragged into a dark cave, surrounded by those shadows." Orophin gripped Haldir's shoulder.
"We found them the next day." Orophin said quietly. "Haldir lay unconscious, our father gone, not to be found. What Haldir saw, and what happened to our father, he will not speak of. Only know this, he has dealt with them first hand, my lord."
Tathar studied Haldir, waiting until the elf turned toward him, Haldir's eyes impassive. Nay, this one would not share the horrors of that time. His young soul had belonged to the light, to have defeated the shadows that had thought to destroy him. What else had happened in that dark cave? He could see battle ahead between Windred and Haldir. Both would lay claim to Tári. Who would succeed? More importantly, which one did he want to succeed?
Thanks to all the reviewers.. your feedback helps with the inspiration.. thank you for your patience.. my "real" job takes me away from home so I have not been able to update as quickly as I'd like.. I shall try to upload another chapter quickly.. Thanks again..
Fianna
Chapter Ten: Portals
Tathar closed his eyes, leaning his head back against the back of his chair, listening to the near silent footsteps of the retreating sentinel. Haldir was here, on his border, with Tári. Why? He'd been sure that Haldir would do as he asked. Galadriel. It could only be Galadriel. He could not have mistaken Haldir. He was sure of it.
He rose, walking to the window to peer out. The moon would rise in a few days. Was that all the time he had left? Keliar would bring them here, quickly, once the sentinel returned to him. But still, it would be another day gone. One day out of very few left to him.
They had not encountered any Orc patrols. That was odd. When he returned, the news had been grave. The sentinels had indeed retreated to the castle. The Orcs had attempted to breach the castle, but had been defeated. But had returned again and again. Only to retreat the last time, quickly, as if withdrawn purposely. He had returned the next day. Were the events related?
Casualties had been minor for his people. The castle was strong, his sentinels excellent with bow. Still, something was not right. How did it all tie together? And now, Haldir? He gripped the stone sill of the window. He hated riddles.
Haldir glanced behind him. Tári strode quickly, her eyes scanning the path around her, a fierce frown curving her lips. She was impatient and worried. They were nearing the green-elves home, he could sense the change in both Tári and Keliar. They climbed a short hill, the pine trees thick here, almost a solid wall. They passed through a narrow opening. Before them lay an open field, the bright sunlight blinding them for only a moment. Across the field a great stone castle sat on a small rise, its four slim ivory towers soaring elegantly into the open sky, long silken banners flapping briskly in the breeze.
Green-elves hurried along the walls, their white hair glittering in the sunshine. Haldir glanced at Tári, aware she had a strong hold on her emotions. He could sense her frustration, but she stayed in his formation, behind him. Keliar had sprinted ahead, pushing open the wide carved wooden doors below the castle rampart. Several Laiquendi greeted him, their glances settling quickly on the Lórien elves.
Haldir reached the castle, scanning the inner courtyard. The castle was crowded with elves. Tents and assorted sleeping arrangements filled most nooks and crannies, sentinels paced the ramparts above. The air was heavy with trepidation. He stopped when Keliar reached the castle steps, pausing as the door opened above him and Tathar stepped out into the brilliant sunshine. Haldir sighed. It was time.
Tathar hurried down the steps, noting immediately that Tári stood behind Haldir, in a position of servitude. She did not move forward, and his brow rose slightly, reaching out to greet Keliar and Haldir.
"I am not happy to see you March Warden."
Haldir bowed deeply. "As I am not happy to be here, my lord."
Tathar glanced at Tári, but her eyes were downcast. "Why have you come? Has Galadriel sent you?"
Haldir had followed Tathar's glance. "Aye, I have been sent on her orders, my lord."
Tathar nodded, and turned back into the castle. The elves followed quickly. The castle's main hall glittered in the sunlight that streamed down from high stained glass windows overlooking the room, the light shifting in an array of colors. The walls of large stone block glistened, and huge tapestries covered many, depicting ancient elven heroes from ages past. Tathar crossed to a chair that sat near a large ornate fireplace. A low fire burned quietly, crackling in the silence.
Haldir followed Tathar, glancing at Tári as she walked behind him "Galadriel has seen more than your vision, my lord. She does not know whether it shall come to pass, but felt it dire that we follow." Haldir reached back, drawing Tári to his side.
"She fears for your daughter, Lord Tathar. If you follow the path that you have seen, it is very likely that she may die as well. The Orcs lie in wait. Their leader, Sauron, watches over your lands in hunger, knowing few of you remain. He too, sees visions, and Galadriel has felt him watching you." Haldir released Tári's arm, nodding slightly to her. She crossed to her father quickly, kneeling at his feet.
"Why does she look to you for your approval?" Tathar asked, bending over to grip Tári's chin. "What have you done now?"
"I have disobeyed you. I tried to follow." Tári cringed slightly, feeling her father's grip tighten on her chin.
"Why? I asked you not to! And Haldir prevented it? He must have, for you to be with him? But I sense you have done more, and by the look in your eyes, I see I am right." He released her chin to sit back. He stared at Haldir. "She stood behind you as one of your wardens. Galadriel has made her such?"
Haldir nodded. "Aye. She will continue to be one until I feel her retribution has been made."
Tathar clenched the arms of his chair. "I do not think I want to hear why." He glared at Tári who bowed her head. "What has Galadriel seen, that she feels Tári is in danger? Had she stayed in Lórien she would be safe."
Haldir did not speak for a moment, formulating his answer. "Galadriel saw that she would try to follow. Even caught and reprimanded, still she would have found a way to return to you. She is stubborn. Her death in her attempt to return to you would have served no purpose. The Orcs lie in wait, they watch, they have seen our patrol pass through your lands. Her death would have been one, among many, from those who only wait for such an opportunity."
Haldir gripped his sword, his gaze pinned on the Laiquendi Lord. "Celeborn said to remember. Your wife's death need not be repeated. Our world is balancing on the edge of a knife. We must use anything that will gain an advantage. You have that which can help you, if you would use it. Galadriel said you must not be afraid. This time it will aid you, not hinder."
The Laiquendi Lord had risen, his face pale. But he did not speak. Tári stared at him, worry etched on her face. Tathar ran a hand through his long hair, a shaking hand.
"You do not understand what you ask, Haldir." Tathar said quietly. "I have long avoided that thought, that cursed idea. How tempted I have been to use it."
Lord Tathar turned, reaching out next to the fireplace, and pushed a small brick aside. A creaking sound grew, a groaning of displacement, and the wall in front of him shifted aside. The stones shuddered, dust falling onto his shoulders when he stepped through the small portal. Tári jumped to her feet, her eyes wide with astonishment.
They followed the Laiquendi lord into the chamber. All around them, under heavy layers of dust, lay parchments. Stacks of parchments so old they threatened to crumble with the slight breeze that now swept into the chamber. Diffused light filtered into the chamber from a window high overhead. Tathar coughed as he lifted a small silver cloth from the table before him. Underneath lay a globe that sparkled with tiny white flashes of light, amid a swirling fog of colors.
"A seeing stone?" Tári asked in astonishment, but Tathar shook his head.
"Nay, not those of which you speak." Tathar sat down in a chair, an explosion of dust settling around him, but he did not seem to notice. His eyes were closed again, his face drawn. "Tári, I have not been truthful in all that I have taught you. Few know of our kind, fewer yet realize from whence we came so many years ago. We are called Drow, and many of our kind are servants of the very evil we fight now. Dark elves, Tári, if you can believe such a thing.'
Tári stepped back in surprise, and felt Haldir's hand on her shoulder. He knew this.
Lord Tathar glanced at the globe. "I left my world long ago. I was not like them, I could not be a servant of the dark lord. I had heard the call of the light. So I gathered those I knew that would follow me, who felt the same. We left the dark tunnels of the drow. They live still, Tári, those dark elves, far beneath us. They lie in wait for me still, hating the fact that I renounced them. I am cursed among them. I had thought I was free from them, but they found us, and almost destroyed my very life. I have fought them ever since. The dark elves do not like the sunlight, they fear it, and do not come to the surface. I gloried in it, as did your mother. She had powers that I could not equal. Galadriel knew of them. Powers I believe you may possess."
Tári shuddered. What was he saying? "Dark elves, Father? Servants of Sauron!"
Tathar turned, meeting Haldir's gaze. "I thought my wife's powers would protect us. I was wrong. They found us one day, through their magic. They did not come to the surface, but used their minions, through Sauron, to find and trap us. They killed her, knowing her powers, but also her weakness. I was a weakness. Her concern for me, her love. They used it against her."
Tári felt Haldir squeeze her shoulder. "But there are more who follow your path," Haldir said quietly. "Only they still fear the sunlight. Powerful drow who can aid you, if you but ask it of them. They can teach Tári what she must learn."
The Laiquendi Lord glanced at the globe. "Galadriel has seen this, has she not? The Drow know where I am. They only wait for me to weaken my defenses. Sauron watches me, yes. And I know they aid him in his sight. Their magic is powerful. They gain strength from the darkness in which they live. They give him much of his power, they create many of his weapons. Swords that will never break, instilled with an evil thirst for blood."
Haldir did not move, nor remove his hand from Tári's shoulder. She felt it tighten. "Aye, that is true. But you know of those whom I speak. They hide among your people, but long to follow the way of the light. Call on them, this time they will aid you, they will come. Time is short, the moon rises in two days. They must come before the moon is full."
Tathar shuddered visibly. "If I open the portal, Haldir, how can I be certain it is those who follow me that will come forth? I fear I shall unleash more evil into this world."
Tári had struggled to follow the story her father told. "I don't understand? What are you saying? There are more Laiquendi?"
Tathar turned to her, scowling. "Nay, the Drow are not Laiquendi! Do not give them that name! Most are evil, hateful creatures, who live only to destroy." The green-elf leaned back, covering his eyes.
"Our world lies on the edge of a knife." Haldir repeated. "You can help save it, or follow your vision, its path still lies before you. Your people," Haldir stressed "can help. You are few, but powerful, you can fight the evil that Sauron has spread over your land. Your abilities in tracking the creatures of night, sensing their presence, is powerful. You must use that power, Tathar. The drow will come to your aid, their time is at hand, but you must take the first step, the portal must be opened."
Lord Tathar sat up, his expression resolute. His eyes were calm as he gazed at Tári. "He is right. I have two paths to take." He rose, crossing to the glittering globe. "I have not used this, in all the years I have had it. It links me to my world. It will open the portal should I command it." Tathar looked at Haldir again. "I must trust your judgment. I do not know what will happen to me. My wife controlled the stone, not I, and it took much from her to use it."
Tári started to reach out to her father, but was held back against Haldir's chest.
"She must do it." Haldir said firmly.
Tathar turned to Haldir abruptly, his gaze locked onto Haldir's. "She has no idea of its power, or how to use it."
Haldir shook his head. "It is inherent in her, she will know once she connects. It will destroy you if you make the attempt yourself. Galadriel stressed this. Do not try to control the globe."
Tári stared at her father, his face was pale.
"I cannot help you," he said softly. "You must open your mind. Hold it, allow it to connect with your thoughts. The light, you must concentrate on the light, Tári. Do not be drawn into the darkness."
Tári glanced at Haldir. He face was impassive, but the grey depths of his eyes warmed her. She felt his strength, his confidence, do not be afraid.
"I don't know what to do. How will I know if I have connected? How must I open the portal?"
'The stone will show you, it will know who you are. The others will feel your presence." Tathar said, gripping her shoulder.
"They have been waiting for you." It was Galadriel's voice unexpectedly in her head.
Keliar turned suddenly from where he'd been watching from the back of the room, his eyes wide with surprise. Orcs, outside the walls. He turned back to Haldir.
"Orcs! I must go! I need your elves, Haldir."
Haldir turned to Keliar. "It is why we are here." He spun quickly back to Tári, ignoring Lord Tathar's surprise, and gripped her arms. "I have seen your strength of will, and your focus. Remember the coins? Focus, do not be distracted."
Tári swallowed. "But I failed the test, I." She stopped when Haldir tightened his grip, pulling her closer to him.
"There were only four, Tári. You won. Be strong, I know your will." He kissed her suddenly, a hard kiss for which he made no apology to her father, and spun, following Keliar back into the castle.
Tári touched her lips, sliding a nervous glance at her father. Tathar's expression was only amused.
"I see more has happened than I want to know." He said, his eyebrow rising sardonically.
Tári turned back to the globe, staring at the swirling fog of color, the tiny lights drawing her closer, closer, drawing her into the fog.
She was surrounded by the swirling mists, the rainbow hues of color eddying around her, encasing her. The lights flashed all around her, calling to her, seeking her. But there was darkness too. It hovered on the edge of the mists, waiting for her, watching her. Drawing her as well. She was torn, both light and dark calling her.
Tári reached out toward a flashing light, capturing the brilliance, gazing down at the glow that now filled her hands. She held it up, whispering words to it that she did not know or remember knowing. The light grew stronger; glaring brilliance that flooded over her, muting the swirling colors. It formed into a figure, a she-elf, and settled in front of her.
"You have come! We have waited long years for you. I must see you, come to me!"
Tári felt herself drawn up, and realized she had become one of the flashing lights, felt herself pulled forward, the swirling colors shifting into a colorful blur, and then she was standing in a room, darkness surrounding her.
"You are Tári?" The voice echoed in her head. A light flickered, and she could finally see. A tall she-elf stood before her. The room was like Tathar's, filled with parchments and assorted books, a large table filled with vials and more parchments behind the elf. But Tári could only stare at the elf before her.
"I am Windred. A high priestess of the drow. I have waited for you for many years. I am your aunt." The elf smiled. It was her eyes that drew Tári, dark murky brown eyes that held a touch of laughter. Her father's eyes.
Tári smiled nervously. "I am Tári. Where am I?"
"You are deep within the earth, I have pulled you through the portal. I have lit the candle so that you may see, I do not need the light."
"If you can control the globe, why have you not come forward sooner?" Tári asked.
Windred laughed softly. "I can control the portal only through you. The globe was your mother's and her powers have been passed to you. Only you can control the globe. You allowed me to bring you here. You must be more wary."
Tári frowned. "Others could do the same?"
Windred nodded. "Aye, but only if you let them."
"What must I do now?" Tári stared at the elf when she turned to her table.
"You must wait. I will gather those who will come, and you must pull us through the portal. I will tell you how. But the powers of darkness watch. They feel the portal has opened. They are waiting for you to weaken, to draw you to them. The drow seek to find you in order to destroy you. We must hurry."
Tári watched as the drow sat down, her arms outstretched beside her, murmuring to herself softly. She lowered her arms, the murky eyes settling on Tári again. "They are coming."
"Are there no other portals?" Tári stared around her, the candle light only illuminating a small area of the room. She suddenly didn't want to know what else was there.
Windred smiled. "Aye, once there was. But they have been destroyed. We destroyed them, those of us who wish to follow the ways of the light. We sought to keep the drow deep underground, our only means of gaining the surface. None know of our deception. But there are those that knew of your mother, and they know still one globe remains. She was a high priestess, your mother, strong in her power. When she left it was a great loss to the darkness. It was a great loss to the light, when she died."
"You know of her death?'
Windred turned away, "I watched it, felt it, and could do nothing to stop it. We tried, but the powers of evil were greater."
"How do I get back?" Tári whispered, suddenly feeling very uneasy. Windred turned to her, her face growing pale.
"What do you sense? You are uneasy?"
Tári nodded and the priestess hurried to her, gripping her arms. "Then they are coming for you, you must go back into the light. Do not leave the swirling mists, we will come to you, but linger there. It is your only protection. They seek to destroy you. You will know us when we come. But the darkness hovers close, fight against it! The light.. remember the light."
She was within the swirling mists again, but the uneasiness followed her. The lights flashed around her still, but quickly, as if in terror. Dark spots fluttered in her vision. They drew closer to her when she focused her thoughts on them, growing larger. Light, she must think only of the light! She pushed away the uneasiness, focusing on the sense of light. The dark spots receded, but hovered along the edge of her vision. How long must she stay here? What if she grew tired, weak? The dark spots drew closer. NO! she was strong. They receded again.
She felt the call of the flashing light, the small sphere skimming around her. Send it! Send it where? She caught the light in her hands. Send it! The sphere blinked rapidly. Throw it!
Tári threw it. The tiny sphere burst into a bright glaring flash of light and she turned away, hiding her eyes. The flashing light was gone. Another bounded around her head. Hurry!
The flashing lights were gone, only swirling mist remained. But the darkness was closing in. She could feel its pull. It was stronger, or was she weaker? The dark spots danced in front of her eyes, almost gleeful. They were waiting too. She backed away, they followed, circling around her. The uneasiness grew to terror. She had to get out, before they sought to control her thoughts. Control! That brought the thought of Haldir. Control, the coins were only four. She'd won!
Tári fell to the floor, the cool stone welcome. The globe lay shattered at Tathar's feet, his face was white.
"It is done then." The voice was that from her head, from the darkness. Tári opened her eyes to see Windred leaning over her, her long white hair falling near to her knees. "Welcome back, Tári."
* *
The fight against the Orcs was fierce, darkness had fallen, but the field was lit with the multitude of torches carried by the Orcs outside the walls. The arrows whistled over head and Tári ducked unconsciously, hurrying down the castle steps. Elves ran about, gathering the arrows, sending them to the sentinels on the ramparts.
Tári ran along the wall, searching for Haldir and Keliar. Laiquendi and Lothlórien elves alike manned the ramparts, their arrows flying quickly, death and screams of pain echoing amid the sounds of the battle. They would be together. She gasped as an arrow whistled past her, quivering in the wooden post next to her. She pulled it free, stuffing it into the quiver on her back. She ran up the stone stairs leading to the ramparts, ducking another arrow that flew past her head. She pushed past the sentinels lining the walls, their glances touching her briefly before concentrating on the Orcs below them again. She was welcome here.
She could hear Tathar's shouts, and feel the sense of her Aunt and her people. How would they help? What were they doing? She couldn't worry. She pushed around a support, sliding along the stone edge quickly. Where were they? She stepped back as a group of Lórien elves pushed forward, manning the walls beside her. They must be near! She hurried along the wall further, squeezing past more elves. She burst through the corner tower, and onto the rampart on the opposite side. Something was wrong!
She pushed aside the elf in front of her, his glare fading quickly when he saw her. She gripped her bow, but stopped with a gasp. Keliar was in front of her, but he was crouching. His head came up when he sensed her concern, and he grinned.
Haldir was lying on the rampart, an arrow embedded into his shoulder, glaring at the Laiquendi commander.
"What has happened?" Tári asked, crouching beside Keliar. Haldir grunted and closed his eyes.
Keliar flexed his fist, staring at his knuckles. He grimaced but then a flash of humor lit his eyes. "He stepped in front of me, I wasn't paying attention. I didn't see the arrow coming, he knocked me out of the way. I owe him my life." He grinned, glancing up at Rumil who grinned back. "I offered to ease his pain, but the March Warden doesn't seem to agree on my methods."
Tári glanced at Haldir. He opened his eyes and rolled over, trying to sit. She helped Keliar pull him against the wall, out of range of any more missiles. She touched the arrow in his shoulder, ignoring the glare Haldir gave her. "I cannot heal like you can, Haldir. Rumil, can you?"
Rúmil looked down and shook his head. "Nay, but Orophin can. You must take out the arrow first." Haldir nodded in agreement.
Tári gripped the arrow, pushing gently on Haldir's chest for leverage. He grunted slightly and gripped her wrist, shaking his head. It was stuck fast. "I cannot remove it. It is lodged into his shoulder, Keliar."
Keliar frowned, glancing down at Haldir again. "I cannot then either, I will surely break it. You will have to dig in and loosen it."
Tári blanched, her horrified gaze meeting Haldir's calm one. "I cannot!"
Rúmil released the arrow he held nocked. And crouched down beside them. "We cannot heal him until you do." His blue eyes held hers. "You can do this."
Tári shuddered, glaring at Rúmil. "I have done enough harm to him, I can do no more!" She gasped when she felt a hand grip her forearm. Haldir was gazing at her, his grey eyes dark with emotion. She couldn't read his expression.
"You must, Tári." His voice was raspy with pain.
"I certainly can't do it with you awake!" she cried, and Keliar grinned, flexing his fist again. Haldir scowled at the Laiquendi commander.
"I can deal with it Tári. You cannot wait." He pulled her closer, his eyes inches from hers. "You must."
Tári's eyes were wide with apprehension. She'd done this before, many times. But it was Haldir, and suddenly it was different. But he was right. Keliar had stood again, and arrows flew unceasingly over head. How many Orcs were out there?"
"Tári!" his voice was deeper. She looked down, a small trickle of blood ran from his shoulder into the blond hair trapped beneath his arm. She closed her eyes, drawing out a knife from her wrist. She looked up, searching for a torch, and rose, hurrying over to the flame. She heated the knife, looking back to see Haldir had closed his eyes. She hurried back, crouching over him again, feeling the concerned gaze of Rúmil behind her.
She slid the knife under his tunics, slitting along the arrow, opening the fabric so she could see the wound. It was red, blood oozing from where the arrow entered his flesh. She looked at Haldir, and his eyes opened briefly, then closed. She bent over, willing her hands not to shake and slid the point into his shoulder along the shaft of the arrow. He flinched, unable to control the involuntary reaction, but made no other sound. She didn't dare look at his face. She felt the tip hit bone and grasped the arrow's shaft, moving the knifepoint slightly. Fresh blood erupted from Haldir's shoulder, but Tári gritted her teeth, prying harder on the knife point, feeling Haldir tense sharply beneath her.
Finally she felt the arrow move, and she dropped the knife, grasping the arrow's shaft with both hands. Pushing against his chest, she pulled on the arrow, feeling it resist, then loosen, sliding out of his shoulder quickly, followed by another flood of bright red blood. Tári threw the arrow away, cutting away a piece of her tunic to staunch the flow of blood. She was shaking, her arms trembling. She still couldn't look at him, for she feared she would burst into tears. She clenched her jaw, fighting off the emotions.
Keliar knelt down next to her, glancing at her expression. A quick squeeze of her shoulder and he stood back up. She glanced up, looking for Orophin, but he was further down the wall. She turned back to Haldir, pressing the fabric over his shoulder. His eyes were closed, and his face pale. Was he alright?
She knelt closer, brushing away a strand of blond hair from his cheek. "Haldir?"
He opened his eyes, staring at her, amusement and pain both gleaming from his eyes. "Aye?" his voice was hoarse.
"I didn't want to hurt you again."
He smiled crookedly, a grimace flashing over his face. "I know, Mouse."
She glanced back at Orophin, who smiled, but was unable to move. She glared at him, but then gazed back at Haldir. "What else can I do?"
Haldir sighed, shifting against the wall. His hair slid over his shoulder, stained with his blood. "You can kiss me." He laughed, pulling her against him. Tári sighed, wrapping her hands around his face, and kissed him, knowing it would tell him how she felt. He sighed and pulled her closer. She pushed him away when Orophin knelt down next to them.
Orophin crouched down, chuckling. "Now, this is not the time or place, brother." He reached out, placing his hand on Haldir's forehead, and the March Warden's eyes closed. Orophin gently lowered his brother back down onto the stone walkway.
"He fights me if he is awake. Too stubborn." Orophin said, placing his hands over Haldir's shoulder. It took only moments, and when Orophin removed his hands, the wound had closed. "Sometimes it does not pay to have such broad shoulders! He makes a better target!" Orophin chuckled again, "I will not wake him, let him heal." He rose to return to the wall, and Tári settled next to Haldir to wait for him to wake again.
* *
Tári stood up, staring in fear over the edge of the ramparts, the elves surrounding her quiet. What new devilry had begun? Below her the Orcs were still screaming, shouting hoarse oaths and threats, but they were no longer directed at the elves on the walls of the castle, but at the new threat creeping about their ankles.
Fog, like nothing Tári had ever seen before, was rising, slowly, eerily from the ground. Like fingers of a hand it rolled only inches over the ground, but when it encountered something solid, living, it rose up, surrounding the creature, engulfing it. The creature's screams lasted only moments, and the fog would disperse, leaving nothing behind. What was this?
Haldir braced himself, and stood, leaning against the stone wall, his gaze meeting Keliar's for a moment. "Drow magic, for once used against the evil that created it." He scowled, watching the fog swirl higher. The Orcs were swarming, trying to scatter, trying to avoid the nightmare that silently threatened them.
"Thank the Valar that no elf stands down in the field, the fog makes no distinction between good or bad, it is just hungry." The elves turned around to see Windred standing behind them with Lord Tathar.
Haldir and Keliar both bowed in greeting. Tári eyed her aunt, finally seeing the dark elf clearly. She stood quite tall, her long white hair hanging to her knees, pulled back only at the sides in a small braid. Her eyes were a murky brown, her skin darkly tanned. Tári stared at her eyes again, they seemed different in the light of the torches, glowing somehow.
Windred smiled scornfully, stepping beside Haldir to look over the wall. "I have longed for the day to use such magic against those creatures of evil. Abominations they are, created from the elves." She pushed away, glancing curiously at Haldir.
"You are Lothlorien. I recognize you, from an image sent to me from Galadriel. You are her Guardian."
Haldir bowed slightly. "I am, Lady Windred."
"The Orcs flee, but will be back." Windred stared at Lord Tathar. "Sauron's anger will be ten fold once he realizes the drow have used his own magic against him. You must gather your forces, and leave these lands, they are forsaken."
The Laiquendi Lord frowned. "I cannot leave these lands, Winfred. Too long have I fought for them. I will not give them up."
Windred sneered. "Then you will die as you saw in your vision, brother. If you cannot accept change and learn, then we have come for naught. You will slaughter us all with your stubbornness."
Windred turned to Tári. "You have no concept of your own strengths. We must teach you quickly. Come with me." She gripped Tári's hand, but Haldir reached out, halting the drow before she could move. Windred raised her eyes to Haldir, her smooth brows rising in disdain.
"You seek to stop me, gray-elf? Where I come from you would be on your knees to me."
Haldir stepped closer, his gaze growing icy and arrogant. Tári had never seen him like this. He was using all his power to intimidate Windred. Tári could see that he succeeded when she stepped back warily.
"But I am not from your world, and I will not, ever, bow to you." Haldir said softly. He leaned over Windred, his eyes glittering. "You are here because of the Lady of Light. The Laiquendi Lord would have followed his vision had I not intervened on your behalf. Your existence in this plane is by my will, you will remember that. This green-elf is my warden, and is under my command and protection. Teach what she may need, but do not think to sway her. She will return to me, and if I sense you have toyed with her mind, I will destroy you."
Windred smiled slowly, her eyes narrowed. "You are bold, Haldir of Lorien, to speak to me that way. Galadriel knows too well the mind of a Drow, she has taught you well. You have known of us longer than you imply, I see in your mind you have fought us before. How long ago was it? How did you fight the darkness that threatened your soul? I know this is why you grow concerned. Your warden is safe in my hands. I will return her to you as she is, only more powerful. Will you be able to accept that? Perhaps she will control you then?"
Haldir said nothing, and Tári gripped his sleeve, pulling his gaze to her. He nodded, and released Windred. The Drow chuckled.
"See, already she has learned. Beware, Haldir of Lorien, of where your heart leads you." She pulled Tári with her quickly, leaving the rampart wall, leaving the elves staring at them in confusion. All of them except Haldir, and Tathar.
* *
"Why do you taunt him so, Windred? I do not understand. You imply more than what is true." Tári whispered anxiously, hurrying after her Aunt. The Drow had released her once they reached the castle.
"Do I? Have you not looked into your heart, Green-elf?"
Tári stopped, tiring of the riddles. "We have no time to play games. We are surrounded by Orcs, my father and friends fight for their lives and you are suddenly sarcastic and unfriendly. What did you mean when you said that Haldir would be on his knees to you?"
Windred laughed softly. "I have made you angry. That is good, you need to be aware of your emotions. Where I am from, Tári, males are inferior." She turned to Tári, gripping her arm. " But that is not important. Do you know why they have brought us out of the darkness? To fight the darkness, as only those who have lived there can do so! Our magic is powerful but evil. But soon, the light of the moon will weaken our magic. Our powers fade in the light of the surface world."
"So that is why Haldir said we must hurry?"
"Yes, he knows more that what he reveals to you." Windred frowned, "he has dealt somehow with the world of the drow. Galadriel knows much, but he speaks from experience. We can destroy the Orcs that surround you now, giving you time to flee. Once the moon is full, we have only our inner senses, senses that can guide you; but no magic as we can create this day."
"Why then would Galadriel be so insistent that I bring you here?"
"Because, dear child, you have the ability to sense the dangers that will overcome this world. You are the key to the visions of both your father and the mirror in which Galadriel sees into. You can unlock those visions, warning them of evil to come."
"I don't understand, I have no sense of this?" Tári stepped back.
Windred gripped her arm again. "It is because we must teach it to you. We could have taught you more, so much more, had you been born in the world of the Drow. The light burns away the powers that grow in you, do you not feel it?"
Tári pulled her arm away, frustrated. "I feel nothing. I am only an elf, I have no special powers. I can fight, I can sense others sometimes, but I have nothing like that which you suggest. I do not want that."
Windred laughed wickedly. "You do not have any choice! Those powers manifest in you whether you will it or no, but they can destroy you. Haldir knows too well what he speaks of, Tári. His concerns are valid. Your father agrees, why do you think he did not stop Haldir in his tirade? So easily could I meld your mind to mine, to learn the dark ways."
Windred sighed. "But I follow the light. I have learned the ways of my people, Tári, I am a dark elf, I am not Laiquendi. I have created evil, I know evil. I have lived it. But I have also fought it, I know its strengths, its weaknesses."
* *
Haldir stretched his shoulder, the muscles were still tight from the arrow, healing could not cure that much. The Orcs had fled, and Tathar paced the ramparts, his gaze turned inward, struggling in his decision. He glanced at Haldir. "You were very bold to speak such to her, she could have killed you in an instant. Her magic is still strong yet, had you forgotten that?"
Haldir's expression hardened. "Nay I did not."
Tathar sighed. "You are quite amazing, March Warden. You are fearless. I lived with those elves for too long to stand up to her like that. I have my own powers, but the female of the drow have yet more. She is much like Galadriel.
Haldir scowled angrily. "Do not compare her to the Lady of Light."
Tathar sighed. 'You seem to know much of the drow, Haldir. More than you admit. You must tell me how you know this."
Haldir turned away, staring out at the ramparts, his jaw set. Orophin and Rúmil stepped closer, eyeing the Laiquendi Lord. Keliar stepped behind Tathar gazing at Haldir curiously.
"You remember my father's visit here." Haldir said, and acknowledged Tathar's nod. "When we left we were attacked by Orcs, and shadows we could not explain. Dark shadows that had as much power to destroy and maim as the Orcs. My father was taken, and I. Dragged into a dark cave, surrounded by those shadows." Orophin gripped Haldir's shoulder.
"We found them the next day." Orophin said quietly. "Haldir lay unconscious, our father gone, not to be found. What Haldir saw, and what happened to our father, he will not speak of. Only know this, he has dealt with them first hand, my lord."
Tathar studied Haldir, waiting until the elf turned toward him, Haldir's eyes impassive. Nay, this one would not share the horrors of that time. His young soul had belonged to the light, to have defeated the shadows that had thought to destroy him. What else had happened in that dark cave? He could see battle ahead between Windred and Haldir. Both would lay claim to Tári. Who would succeed? More importantly, which one did he want to succeed?