An Instrument of Fate

by Lord Valentai

An account of the Last Alliance at the end of the second age. Please read and review. New chapter added 21st August.

14. Chapter 9b

Chapter 9b

Please review, if anybody is actually reading this. Even if you comment on the dreadful grammar, just so I know that somebody is reading this.

As dusk was falling, the two rode back over the hill and down to the gates of the white city. The guards saluted him and Aëorith took his horse and led both mounts away to the stables. Prince Valentai walked along the processional way, now so quiet. The activity had become muted in recent weeks as more and more of the citizens turned to war. Valentai had been surprised that they had not even had to conscript troops. They came out of a sense of duty, not by force. Valentai walked up the stairs and Linados smiled at him as he stood by the entrance to the palace.

"Welcome back Lord Valentai. You were successful?" The bodyguard asked lightly.

Valentai muttered something but nodded and said louder. "I was thank you Linados. Is the High King in?"

Linados held up his hand and walked in through the door. After a few minutes he emerged and held the door open. "Go in, he is just finishing with Lord Malas."

Valentai bowed his thanks and walked in and through the left hand door into the study of the High King.

Valentai saluted the High King who returned it and smiled. Malas looked up and nodded to the hero in response to his salute.

"Lord king, I am sorry I have disturbed you."

"We were just finished Lord Valentai." Gil-Galad answered. "Were you successful?"

"Yes lord king. The first great company is fully operational and has two thirds of it's ranks filled. They are being trained hard and they can be ready as soon as the last troops are called upon."

Gil-Galad nodded. Valentai seemed unsure about something and the elf king looked at him curiously. "More to say have you Lord Valentai?" He asked softly.

"May I make an observation lord king?" Valentai asked formally and Gil-Galad shrugged. Seeing his chief of staff wanted verbal acknowledgement he sighed and nodded his head.

"Do feel free Lord Valentai." He said.

Valentai breathed in. "Should we not be calling up the remainder of the troops now?" he asked and Malas looked at him sharply.

"If we do that then we compromise the stability of the kingdom." Malas said.

"But we must compromise it in two months time anyway." Valentai answered. Gil-Galad stepped back to listen to the discussion.

"With the harvest coming up we must have all available people to work it." Malas countered.

"But even if we call up the remainder of the army, there are those who can take a hand in the soldier's place."

"I would say that it is a bad idea." Malas said.

"We have already stripped two thirds of our workforce. Cannot we use the reserve troops?" Valentai sighed and looked at the elf commander. "The reason I ask is that what I saw today was a superb instrument of war. It has been training for four months to a greater or lesser extent. It is only two thirds full. We will have a third of our army that will not be as well drilled as the rest. The confusion, especially in Anderón's unit where the most soldiers are missing could be fatal." Anderónë, Gil-Galad remembered held the area in the south central interior of Lindon. The real farmland and mining centre. That was why Anderónë was in charge of it.

"But you say we have lost five months already, should we not risk it and wait another two?" Malas asked.

"Then they will be seven months and not four behind. If we wait then they will have lost more time than they will have to train. It is not like the reserve units, the guards of Santäissa cannot help. If necessary, we can draft in the better troops from the formed units. I only ask that we pull on our troops now. We have eight months until we must leave, ten until we meet Elendil, we must use every day we can." Valentai said, impassioned.

Malas made no sign but looked to the High King who moved between them. Gil-Galad sighed quietly.

"Malas is right; we must not stop the workings of this kingdom for as long as is physically possible." Valentai nodded, a little disappointed but bowed his head. Gil-Galad smiled a small grin. "But Valentai is also right. There are enough other troops and the trained troops can be pulled in. Therefore, we compromise. Malas, you will see the remaining troops on the lists raised and equipped whilst Valentai will see to the raw materials and make sure everything works. Address all questions to me." The High King said the last sentence in a voice that brooked no argument. His two commanders bowed and made to leave. Gil-Galad called out.

"Valentai, a moment if you would." He said and Malas clapped his shoulder and was escorted out the door by Linados who closed it again. Gil-Galad sat at the table and looked at his chief of staff.

"I congratulate you Valentai. I would have done the same thing. Things have proceeded better than I had expected."

"The people of Lindon are very easy to work with. Sometimes it can be so difficult with some groups of people."

"I have a better explanation Valentai." Gil-Galad said and rose to stand beside the hero. "It is because of you."

Valentai was surprised. "Me, I have done nothing." He protested.

"You are strangely modest as well. Look at it this way, who could I have in your place who could do the job half as well?" Gil-Galad asked frankly.

"Lord Elrond or-" He stopped and the High King laughed.

"Or who? There is no one other than my regent and he must look to his own lands. What ever happens in this war, it may be decided by your ability with the pen as much as the sword." Valentai was trying to hide a small smile.

"You are far too generous. That unit today was not raised by me." He said.

"That is not important. Without you, they would be an ununiformed mass. Valentai, you think too little of your own abilities. I do not regret my choice of you in the position you are in." The elf king waved his hand. "No more of this, we could go on for hours."

Valentai bowed, more than a little happy. "I thank you lord king. I had best be going."

"One last question. What did you think of Mestarië? Today was the first time you had met?" Valentai halted by the door and turned to nod at the last question.

"It was lord king. I think he was the ideal soldier for this army. He has a sense of honour and protection for his people."

Gil-Galad smiled at a distant memory. "I still remember when two very ragged commanders turned up at my camp with fourteen hundred weary, bloodied soldiers and asked to join us. I did not know whether to fight them or welcome them." He smiled at the memory. "Mestarië is a good leader. I offered and almost begged him to take command of the fourth after Morantar died which was his through rank, experience and talent. He refused though. He would not leave his troops. I even offered him the first but he refused."

"With a very calm tone I do not doubt." Valentai said dryly and the king nodded thoughtfully.

"Do not underestimate that tone. In battle he can become a tempest of anger. He was like Celedaih is now before the last war. When Maeldin died, he became calmer and more distant. The two were as close as Gildor and Milotüré are now."

"I hope he never gets that promotion but if he does, it will be good for him and others." Valentai said.

"Since the only way that can happen is through Celedaih's death, I would not wish it so." Gil-Galad said gravely. "Good night Valentai. Give the troops some time and then see them. One last thing, Anderónë needs your talents in the training facility this week some time."

"I will send a message to him."

"He will come. Good night Valentai."

"Good night lord king."

"Lord Valentai? You are looking happy this morning." Aëorith commented and Valentai smiled broadly.

"I am my friend." Valentai said. "I am leaving this room and it's papers for a couple of hours and helping train some of Anderón's troops."

Aëorith tried to look neutral but Valentai clapped him on the shoulder.

"You always wanted to learn how to use a sword. Why do you not come with me?" Valentai said and the elf blushed slightly.

"I did not want to be embarrassed in front of others." Valentai sighed.

"Very well. Do you want to come anyway?" He asked and the elf nodded.

"I will watch if it does not trouble you Lord Valentai." The elf said and Valentai nodded.

"Then let us be going."

Valentai looked at himself a last time in the mirror. He was not wearing his battle gear but his normal elvish clothes, although these were of harder and more durable material. He smiled and walked out of his door. Aëorith walked beside him and Valentai was proud of the aide, he had done what few could do, he had kept up with Valentai.

High Captain Anderónë was standing outside the door to the training room and bowed when Valentai approached. The prince nodded to the elf and clasped his hand.

"So, I heard you needed a hand so to speak." Valentai said and the elf nodded.

"I am afraid so. You once told me that there are two types of soldier; those who can fight and those who cannot."

"And I suppose that these people are in the latter category." Valentai inquired tactfully.

"It is so, yes. It is not that they are clumsy or disobedient, it is just that they cannot grasp the nature of fighting."

"A useful thing in a soldier." Valentai said dryly. He looked at the High Captain. "I will do what I can. I cannot work miracles but I can try what can be tried." He smiled. "I have not seen you in months. How are you? How is your son?"

Anderónë smiled. "Both are very well, thank you. My troops are in good spirits. They are trying to help the new volunteers as they come in but the disparity in training great."

"And it would only get worse. I think it was the best decision." Valentai said as they walked in. Valentai gestured his aide forward. "You have met Aëorith, Anderónë?" he asked and Anderónë nodded.

"I have indeed; it is hard to separate the two of you."

"Well he does his job and he does it well. He has never used a weapon before so he just wanted to sit in."

Aëorith blushed slightly and the High Captain nodded approvingly. "You never know where he will lead you my friend. Wherever it is, you are bound to need that sword."

Valentai stepped into the main room and the students rose and saluted. Valentai kept his face grim but his mind knew that Anderónë was right. Every one of them was about a third of Aëorith's age. They all looked vert uncomfortable in the heavy, padded armour and blunt swords which were laid across their legs. As they stood Valentai almost winced when he heard a blade clatter loudly to the ground. Valentai nodded slowly and turned to Anderónë. He spoke quietly and spoke in common so as not to be overheard. Of all of the High Captains, Anderónë spoke common the best with Glorfindel being only slightly less proficient.

"How many, what age and how much experience?" Valentai hissed.

"Twenty, between a hundred and a hundred and fifty and no battle experience and only two months training."

Valentai sighed slightly. This score of elves made the troops he had trained in Imladris look like the Royal Lifeguards of the king.

He shrugged and walked to the front of them.

"Sit my friends." He said and waited until this was done. Valentai knew that the High King had passed a law saying that only those over a hundred could join the front line troops. Evidently these were patriotic but inexperienced. Valentai sighed.

"Now my friends, I am Lord Valentai and I am the chief of staff of the High King." There were murmurs. Valentai decided to use a little bit of force. "Quiet!" He said calmly in a steely voice and the elves instantly looked at him. They were frightened and for once, Valentai decided to use this. "You are soldiers in this army, thus you will pay attention when you are addressed by a superior officer." He said and the elves nodded. Aëorith had sat down in a corner; out of sight but able to see his commander. Anderónë kept his face impassive and tried not to be amused by the looks of terror in the young recruit's eyes.

"You are here today because there is a war to fight. A war which has interrupted your normal lives and forced you to take up arms. You are young, I can see that, but you are not the first to stand before me in such a situation. There is only one way to gain experience and confidence and it is an unfortunate teacher. A battle is the only way to learn and for that reason, you must prepare beforehand so that you might live to learn from experience, from mistakes." Valentai said to the enraptured audience. "You know who we are and what we are here but I want to tell you a few things. I am here to train you with the sword but I cannot do that unless you understand what a soldier is. There are three rules for being a soldier and three for using a sword. I could ask your High Captain to show you the drill book and it is nearly a foot thick. I can tell you, if you march into battle trying to remember all of that, you are in trouble."

He laughed and some nervous laughter came from the crowd. Anderónë watched, he had asked and he was seeing if the rumours are true of the chief of staff's prowess with training.

Valentai nodded at the students. "Simple rules because in reality, war is simple. Life and death, attack and defence. To be a soldier you must do three things. You must look after your friends. I do not just mean your friends I mean all that fight on your side. Look after them and they will look after you. If you cannot fight the foe alone, then work together. To be a soldier is to work together. Secondly, you must never show weakness before the enemy. Ultimately, this means that you must not care if you live or die." He took in the appalled gasps and nodded. "It is true and I say this every time and the response is always the same. Put it this way, the enemy will attack with all their heart, if you fight half-heartedly then you have a greater chance of dying. Unless you put aside fear and self-preservation, you will die." He punctuated the last words by bringing his left hand down into his right with each word. "Lastly, you must work together. You must follow the orders given to you for two reasons. Firstly, you must assume that those above you have more knowledge of the situation. Secondly, to make no decision is worst than making no decision at all. Hesitation is more fatal than any order can ever be."

Valentai sighed, he had not meant to say quite so much but he thought he might as well go all the way.

"You are wondering why I said all of this? The two things are not exclusive that is why. You can be the best swordmaster in the world but one person cannot fight an army. Often it is those who work together with lesser ability that will succeed."

Valentai smiled and picked up a training sword from one of the students. He held it and swung it experimentally. It had reasonable balance, not a duelling sword though. "This is your training sword, blunted of course but heavy enough to make you not want it to hit you. A real enemy will hurt far more I assure you." The hero looked at Anderónë.

"Do you fell like a practice run Anderónë?" Valentai asked sweetly and the High Captain shook his head.

"I really think not Lord Valentai. Gildor told me his knee still hurts in wet weather."

"If he moved into it he had no-one to blame but himself. It was only a minor blow. Fine." The students watched him in amusement as he flung up his hands. "Is there anyone who wishes to demonstrate?" He asked rhetorically.

"He means, be a target." Anderónë added helpfully.

"I will lord captain." Said a voice from behind the High Captain and an elf with the usual long black hair and green-blue eyes. He bowed to them both.

"Lord Valentai, meet my bodyguard Alondain." Anderónë said and the two bowed to each other.

Valentai smiled. "And you are willing to be a target, as the High Captain so elegantly put it?" He asked and the elf nodded.

"I trust you enough Lord Valentai to know that you will not intentionally harm me. Besides, the students need to see some real sword work."

"My thanks Alondain. Now my friends, this is how you fight." Valentai said and saw their interest piqued.

Valentai took two of the training blades and let his opponent choose. Alondain nodded and swung experimentally. He looked up at Valentai.

"This is good." He said and Valentai nodded.

"Duel only, first to touch skin, yes?" Valentai said and held his sword in both hands.

"Agreed. Lord captain?" He asked and Anderónë nodded.

"Begin." He said when he saw they were ready.

To the seated elves, it seemed as though all the legends of the heroes of old had come into this room. The swords clashed and sparkled as they flashed through the light of the sun coming from the high windows. Valentai fought with his sword, two-handed as he always did whilst the elf used only one. Valentai drove forward, slightly annoyed that he was having to duel instead of win. He hammered to the elf's left four times and as the elf moved to block a fifth blow, Valentai whirled his body around and cut at his opponent's right. The elf blocked the blow, barely and staggered. Valentai stepped forward and cut the sword aside and stabbed. The sword stopped an inch from the elf's torso before he pulled it back. The students and even Anderónë stood in awe as Valentai held out his hand which the elf took.

"You are good Alondain." Valentai stated and the elf panted and smiled.

"Not good enough it seems." He said and looked down. Valentai clapped his shoulder.

"There is no shame my friend. None have beaten me in a straight fight for many centuries and then it was not a fair fight." Valentai said and turned to the astonished students.

"That is how to use a sword. You will not be that good today, or tomorrow or for a hundred years. However, each step, each experience lifts you closer to that. In time, and you may fight like the bodyguard of the High Captain. Now, I want you to line up against each other, I will be with you shortly." He handed the two weapons back to their owners and walked over to Anderónë who smiled.

"I have never seen you do that before."

Valentai grimaced. "That is good. Unfortunately you will see it in this war, I am certain of that."

"I am sure of that." Anderónë stood back as Valentai walked to where the twenty Eldar had paired up and stood facing each other. Valentai nodded.

"Put on the helmets." He said. The elves obeyed so that now their faces were hidden behind a wire mesh which protected the face. "Now turn backs on each other and, without speaking, I want you to choose another person randomly. You cannot see who they are now. This is something you must learn, trust. Trust in yourself and in others." Valentai watched as they obeyed. He nodded slowly as they stood to attention, facing him. Valentai stepped forward.

"Now I want you to face one another. Do not move but think. Concentrate. Do not worry about timing, me or anything else. Focus on two things. Your sword and that of the enemy. Feel how you will move and anticipate the enemy." Valentai said and Anderónë watched, his eyes wide as the students stood straight and held their blades ready.

"When you are ready, begin." Valentai said gently.

There was silence and then the clash of swords was heard. The scuffing of feet, the grunts and above all, the clash of steel. Several of the fights were over soon enough, but longer than they managed in the past. One pair however fought on like ones possessed. For a minute they fought before Valentai held up his hand.

"Stop!" He said. Instantly they stopped. Valentai walked over to them. "Excellent my friends. Now, what do you think of yourselves?" he asked and walked back to Anderónë.

"They are yours now High Captain. They will do better now, I assure you."

Anderónë nodded but as Valentai passed the elf grabbed his arm, out of sight of anyone else. Valentai understood.

"I shall be back High Captain." He said convincingly.

Anderónë saw him walk off with Aëorith and nodded to Alondain. "A half hour more Alondain. Then dismiss them. I am outside." He said quietly and Alondain nodded and moved to command the now enthused students.

Anderónë looked out the door but could see nobody. Thinking the hero had misunderstood him, he stepped outside.

"I would say that they are not so bad now." A voice said in common behind him. The elf turned to see Valentai leaning against the wall, smiling to himself.

"Thanks to you, yes." Anderónë said in Sindarin.

"I do what I can Anderónë. I have met troops that would make them seem like the Lifeguards."

Anderónë shuddered despite himself. "I am indebted to you. You should take it up permanently."

Valentai laughed. "That is the last thing I would want. I usually end up doing it anyway but here I have so much more to do."

"Well, I am leaving again tomorrow. I will probably not be back for several months."

"Send me a message when your troops are ready and I will come and inspect." Valentai said and the elf nodded.

"It shall be so. Where is your boy?" He asked.

"For the last time, he is not my 'boy'. I sent him back, it is afternoon and I am not doing anything else today."

Anderónë nodded. "I will send you a message soon Lord Valentai." He said and Valentai nodded.

"Until that day." Valentai said and walked away, through the streets of the white city.

Three Months Later

"I suppose this is to be expected. This is the worst organised unit I have ever seen and I will not even mention it's commander."

The two of them stood in the light of the morning sun. The person who had spoken had was on horse whilst the elf he was talking to was on foot. The elf on the ground looked up and smiled. The commander being berated did not seem upset. He seemed amused and smiled at the lashing indictment.

The voice spoke again, this time in exasperation. "You are not supposed to find that amusing."

The rider dismounted and clasped his friend's shoulder. Valentai smiled.

"How are you Glorfindel? What was so humorous? You are supposed to be worried." Valentai said.

Glorfindel looked at him seriously and nodded. "If you had really meant that then I would have been worried." For the first time, Glorfindel looked concerned. "It was a joke was it not?" He asked.

Valentai sighed. "Of course it was a joke. You would know if I was really angry, believe me. Come; let us meet your people."

Glorfindel smiled and walked with the hero to the edge of the camp.

The camp was built as an almost mirror image of the first great company's encampment except it had a path running north to south. Valentai had ridden here after Glorfindel had sent him a message saying his force was prepared. In the three months since the final recruitment, the training had continued well. The more trained regulars had been needed to help with the affairs of running the kingdom but it had not made a major difference to the lifestyle or otherwise of those who remained. The camp for the second great company was a day's ride away and Valentai had camped in some hills above it and ridden down the next morning. Aëorith had elected to stay behind and Valentai was surprised to find that he missed the company of the elf. Glorfindel sighed and looked at his friend. In truth, even the usually irrepressible Glorfindel looked tired and Valentai knew that it would get a lot worse as the war actually began. Valentai, used to a life of no sleep as well as possessing the ability to go without it was much more resilient.

"We have done everything we possible can to get everything ready. As you know, we are the largest great company, I cannot think why but that is the way of it." Glorfindel's great company was marginally larger than Celedaih's, about twelve and a half thousand troops.

"You are the most senior of the High Captains?" Valentai asked.

"Only just though. I suppose Anderónë took over after Saründe was killed. I suppose I am about three years senior then." Glorfindel mused.

Valentai walked with his friend outside of the camp and to the crest of a hill. Valentai nodded in approval as the bright ranks of the Eldar saluted the two commanders. They were all there, every elf that had been on the recruitment lists was here and they looked well armed, equipped and confident.

"They look good." Valentai said and Glorfindel smiled at the compliment.

"Well they would, I am in charge." He said with a mix of mock pride and affection for his troops."

Valentai saw the happiness of the elf's face and suddenly felt a hint of sadness that so many would never live to see the peace this war may bring. "If only we were not marching to war my friend, I would enjoy this spectacle." Valentai said with a small hint of feeling that Glorfindel noted but did not comment on.

"I agree. Come my friend and meet my commanders." Glorfindel said. As they walked down towards the waiting Eldar Valentai looked at his friend.

"Did you really think I was serious before?" He asked and Glorfindel muttered something and looked away.

Valentai smiled. "What was that?" He said in a commanding tone but with a smile on his face.

"I said because I cannot tell between the tones you use." Glorfindel said uncomfortably.

Valentai shook his head. "You have never heard me angry or upset or even frustrated. Would you like try?" He asked mildly and the elf decided that he could do without that particular joy.

"Thank you but no." He said as they neared the front rank of troops. Valentai stood back slightly. He nodded in approval.

"I congratulate you my friend. How long until they can march?" He asked.

"They are ready now." Glorfindel said seriously. "Of course the more time we have the better. If the High King gives the word we could be marching in column, fully prepared in a month."

"Excellent. I cannot speak for him of course but I believe he intends to move at least some of the troops to Imladris before the great march." Valentai said conspiratorially. The elf nodded.

"I suppose being chief of staff has advantages. We will not fail you." Glorfindel said.

"I know you will not." Valentai said as they entered the tent.

"So how are the other preparations going Valentai?" Glorfindel asked and poured his friend a drink.

"Better than I had foreseen. I have not heard word from Elrond yet but I assume he is ready. If this is true then we will combine the army in a few months time. Then, when everything is ready, we march to war."

"We will be ready." Glorfindel said. He looked at Valentai with a small smile, his serious mood disappearing once more. "I heard you have an admirer in Imladris." He said offhandedly.

Valentai looked up from the accounts. "Who?" He asked in genuine confusion.

Glorfindel looked amused. "Gildor wrote me, I received the message a few days ago. A certain silver haired elf has been asking about you. He has been trying to avoid the question but he cannot do it forever."

Valentai winced. "I never knew she thought that way about me. I was under the apprehension that we were barely friends." Valentai said.

"Apparently, she has a different view on the subject." Glorfindel said happily. "Or maybe she just was asking after you but from the tone of the letter." He left the sentence unfinished and Valentai sighed.

"What have I gotten myself into? Tell me the two of them are friends." He almost pleaded and Glorfindel shook his head with his happy smile still on his face. Valentai knew the answer but he was so wrapped in his own thoughts that he forgot he had been told.

"I could do that but I would be lying. Now, there is an enmity between them."

"Like Gildor and Lauronwë?" Valentai asked with a dull tone.

"Yes, the very same. It had something to do with an event that happened after the last war. There was an argument. Silmarë chose the wrong day, the day of the battle at Lake Eventide. There were angry words spoken and Silmarë made disparaging comments about Morantar's relationship with Milotüré."

Valentai nodded. "And the two have not spoken since?" The hero said.

"Exactly, the two are best not left in the same room, or country." Glorfindel said.

"Where do you learn all of this?" Valentai simply had to ask. The elf shrugged.

"It pays to keep an ear to the pulse of life." He said airily.

"What have I done?" Valentai changed the subject back.

"You love Milotüré, so that must be where your choice lies." Glorfindel counselled.

"I know that." Valentai said a little sharply. "What am I going to do about Silmarë?" He asked.

The elf shrugged. "Talk to her. You have no feelings for her so tell her the truth. Do what is right."

Valentai muttered something the elf had not real desire to hear. "Well, there will be at least one battle fought in Imladris. How do I tell Milotüré?" he asked.

"What am I? The love councillor?" Glorfindel asked but then straightened when he saw his friend actually wanted his advice. "What you do is show her this letter and ask her advice. You both know you love each other. Then tell her that Silmarë had the wrong impression." Glorfindel said. He had a respect for the loremaster of Imladris but that stemmed from when he had first arrived at Santäissa before the fall of Eregion. "I do not want or want you to hurt either of them but tell the truth Valentai." The elf finished.

Glorfindel was treated with the rare sight of Valentai looking uncomfortable. Then the hero nodded.

"Next time I see Milotüré I shall tell her." Valentai said and looked at his friend whose smile was still there. "And as for you, take that smile off your face."

"Anything you wish lord prince." Glorfindel said happily and Valentai rose to his feet.

"Thank you. I had best be returning to Santäissa." He clasped the elf's hand. As he was walking out of the tent he looked back at the grinning elf.

"Don't call me that." He said and the High Captain burst into laughter.

"Lord Gildor?" The soft voice said and the captain jumped. She always seemed able to move behind him without he even being able to hear her. Gildor had been leaning on the bridge over the river of Imladris, his gaze unfocused as he stared at the rushing water. He turned with as much grace as he could muster and bowed slightly.

"My Lady Silmarë. What can I do for you?" He asked, he knew the answer and he was desperately casting around for some duty elsewhere that needed him. He wished his aide would appear with some urgent message. It was not to be and she smiled at him, her silver hair flowing like molten platinum.

"Are you busy? I would not disturb you of course but I have desired to speak to you for some time." She asked politely.

Gildor was trapped. He looked around but his traitorous aide was nowhere to be seen. He bowed slightly.

"Of course not. It is a fine night." She smiled and moved to stand beside him. Gildor knew that Milotüré and Silmarë disliked each other intensely. It was both of their faults. Silmarë had been foolish to make that comment but Milotüré had been prideful in the extreme to continue the enmity.

"It is indeed. How are your troops?" She asked and Gildor knew she was obliquely arrowing to the real question.

"They are fine. We should be more than ready. In fact my troops are set to go now. We shall not disappoint the High King." Gildor said stolidly. His hopes that Silmarë had come to discuss something innocent were shattered by her next words.

"You are a friend of Lord Valentai's are you not?" She asked and Gildor considered falling off the bridge to escape this very uncomfortable situation.

"A good friend yes." Gildor said carefully.

"So is it true then?" She asked very bluntly, throwing tact to the wind.

"That he is in love with High Captain Milotüré? Yes it is." Gildor decided he could not hide any longer. He said the words with a little too much force for her head bowed.

"I see." She said very carefully. Her face was a mix of anger and sadness and Gildor hoped Glorfindel had warned his friend. He could not write directly to Valentai in case Milotüré found out. Gildor sighed, this army was so complex. Elves lived virtually forever and that meant that insults would not be forgotten and enmity not put aside. It also, thankfully meant that good deeds were not forgotten.

"Does that interest you my lady?" He asked neutrally.

"No of course not." She said with a little too much conviction. "He is free to live his life as he chooses." She said and Gildor winced.

"Did you have feelings for Lord Valentai? I did not realise." Gildor said, asking the question as indirectly as he could manage.

"Neither did he." She muttered softly and then turned to the captain. "I may have done once, but he has chosen his own path." She said stiffly and began to walk away. Gildor knew he should be content but he could not resist one last question.

"Is it because he does not return your feelings or is it because of who he loves?" Gildor asked and he rounded on him. Her eyes blazed with anger and her mouth twisted. Then she subsided and turned away.

"Both." She said as she walked away into the night. Gildor sighed and returned to his room.

The next morning, Gildor walked to the residence of Elrond. He was calling a meeting of his commanders and Gildor made sure he was presentable. The conversation last night still ran through his mind. He saw Tiraldórë by the great oak tree and the captain crossed to the ambassador who smiled a greeting and then frowned.

"Are you alright?" He asked, taking in the concerned expression, tired face and distracted eyes.

"I am fine Tiraldórë. Walk with me if you will. There is a meeting."

"I have not forgotten. I was waiting for you. I was about to come in and see that you had not fallen back to sleep. What is wrong?" The ambassador said. He had just returned from Annúminnas and had been pleased by the progress the humans had made. He wondered if something had happened in the three months he had been away.

"I had a talk with Lady Silmarë yesterday." Gildor said.

"Yes?" Tiraldórë said, seeing nothing in the statement.

"She wanted to know about Valentai and Milotüré." Gildor said.

Tiraldórë sighed. "I knew it would happen. What did you do?"

"There was nothing I could do. I told the truth. I would not lie and then have her hopes broken when he arrives." Gildor said although his voice betrayed that he did not feel that he had done the right thing.

"Emotion is such a difficult thing to judge. Even I cannot judge people's feelings sometimes. You did do the right thing though." Tiraldórë said and Gildor nodded.

"I suppose I did." The two had approached the building and Keldoräth saluted. The bodyguard seemed about to say something but then he saw the concerned expressions and thought better of it.

"Go right in my friends. Elrond is expecting you." The two nodded thanks distantly and walked on. Keldoräth shrugged and looked out the door again.

Elrond looked up as the door opened and the two elves came into his meeting room. He nodded at them.

"Gildor, Tiraldórë. You are well I trust?" He asked and they nodded. He saw their distant looks and would have asked about it but the door opened to reveal his three other commanders and Vallarië.

"Come in my friends. Take a seat and we shall begin." When they were all seated, Elrond looked at each of them. His three captains, Vlaimadous, Gildor and Culandil. Osturin, the cavalry commander was also there and so was Vallarië. The three captains led slightly oversized companies of three thousand troops, made so because of the unusual nature of the Imladris army and the comparative seniority of it's commanders. Osturin lead five hundred cavalry whilst a separate formation of five hundred green elves was led by their own commander. Elrond sighed, he had requested that those three in Gondor return but they had not done so and Elrond assumed it was a lost cause trying to push them. The green elves were prickly when ordered to do something and Elrond had no desire to have five hundred discontent archers in his ranks. He looked up.

"Sorry my friends. Lord Vallarië, how are we set at this moment?"

The son of Celembrimbor snorted. "We are doing our duty. We will be ready on time I assure you of that. We are mostly ready as it is."

Elrond sighed. He would have to press the elf and an angry great grandson of Fëanor was not a recipe for peace. "I meant, in any specifics? And if so, how is the construction of the camps proceeding?" Elrond saw the proud elf's mouth twist in annoyance.

"They are underway lord regent. I would have to ask my captains to know that." He said stiffly and Elrond sighed.

"Very well. Vlaimadous how are you set?" Gildor was senior captain but the elf still had a thoughtful, almost distracted look and so Elrond moved to the second ranked captain.

"My troops are as ready as they can be lord regent. The camp for the first half of the Army of Lindon is nearly complete. It will hold the three smaller great companies whilst the one Captain Gildor is making will hold the last two, the cavalry and headquarters." He said and Elrond nodded.

"Captain Gildor?" He asked and the elf seemed to jerk awake. Tiraldórë whispered in his ear and the captain nodded like he had known the question along.

"The camp is nearly ready. We have sent some troops with the company of Culandil to help construct the base for the Army of Arnor. That camp is massive. It has sides a half mile long and will hold over forty five thousand tents when their army arrives. Two man tents you see so we have enough and still have a quarter of the camp for wagons, supply and all the other miscellaneous parts of an army."

Elrond was impressed. The captain had apparently not even thought about what he was saying. The news was interesting as well but not astounding. He would be ready.

"Good. Is there anything else?" Elrond asked and the elves shook their heads.

"Very well then. Go in peace. Captain Gildor and Ambassador Tiraldórë, you will stay if you please." He said and Vallarië snorted with a twinge of happiness as he stalked from the room.

When they were alone, Elrond looked at his senior captain. "Gildor, I ask you at least to pay attention." Elrond reflected that he could never tell if an elf was sleeping or just staring at him. It was easier with humans he had been told.

Gildor looked appalled. "I am sorry lord regent if you thought I was being disrespectful. I tell you, that was not my desire. I was thinking of something, a new development." The elf said in a rush. He looked hurt and Elrond sighed, sometimes the elves in this army were too obedient. For some reason, the face of Milotüré at the meeting she had missed came back to him. He shook his head.

"And what is this new development Gildor?" Elrond asked gently.

Gildor looked embarrassed. "Nothing that need bother you lord regent."

Elrond sighed for the seventh time since the captain had entered the room. "I insist. What is troubling you so?"

"I talked with Lady Silmarë last night. About Lord Valentai and Milotüré. Lord regent, what would you advise I do?"

Elrond almost laughed at the revelation. Almost, he kept his face concerned and passive as he had no wish to cause an incident.

"They must work it out between themselves. You cannot interfere captain. You may be friends with Milotüré and Valentai but you cannot do anything more than tell the truth and inform them of the problem." Elrond said. He would pay good money to see the meeting between the three. Then the half-elf felt ashamed at the impulse.

"I know lord regent. I have sent a letter to Glorfindel to tell him." He looked into the grey eyes of his lord. "Why am I laying this before you? I am just wasting your time lord regent. I will go." Gildor said and turned away.

Elrond thought of reprimanding the elf but decided he could not deal with the elf in his current state if he were to do such a thing.

"Gildor. Wait a moment. I have some things to tell Tiraldórë that you may wish to hear." Gildor turned and saluted.

"Lord regent I-" He began but Elrond held up has hand and talked to Tiraldórë.

"I know you have only just returned from there but I want you to go back to Annúminnas. I want you to speak to the king and find out how they are proceeding. Then, I ask you to go to Santäissa and tell the High King of this news and that we are ready to receive any troops he wishes to send." Elrond smiled and said in a more friendly tone. "And Gildor can give you a message to give to Lord Valentai if he so desires."

Both elves bowed. "As you wish lord regent." Gildor said happily and the two walked away. When he was sure he was alone, the half-elf smiled and chuckled quietly. He felt sorry for Valentai, he was about to find himself between the hammer and the anvil.

Tiraldórë cantered along the last few miles of the well known route to Annúminnas. He rode over a crest and could see the vast sprawl of houses and the grey lake. Three weeks alone in rapidly cooling weather was not the elf's idea of pleasure but he did it because it was expected for him to. In fact, he had spent only three nights outdoors, the rest in human towns where he was well known. The elf rode down the road. Instead of the small villages and flat lands dotted by hills and trees, there was an army. It was large, some eight divisions from the surrounding lands. The army was not concentrated much of course, the units of Arthedain and the southern provinces were not called on yet. Tiraldórë saluted the guards at the first picket post. The elf was treated to the usual mix of awe and interest which he received when he met men who had not seen elves before. He nodded politely and rode on. After a mile of encampments he reached the first gate of the city. For the first time in decades, he had to pull out his signed pass from both High King Gil-Galad and King Elendil for them to let him through. The same was repeated at the second and third walls and the elf was feeling unusually irritated when he dismounted and walked up to the palace. He walked up into the large palace of the king and up to where the king lived. He saluted the guards and, after finding he was meeting with the Archduke, he asked if he could go in. The guards had given him strange looks but had gone in. The guard had come out a little confused.

"The king bids you enter and welcome to Annúminnas."

"Thank you my friend." Tiraldórë said distantly as he walked into the room.

Elendil and Maelius stood and saluted as he entered.

"Tiraldórë, we did not expect you again so soon. It has only been a month and a half since you left us." Maelius said. "And there was me thinking we had gotten rid of you." The Archduke added lightly.

"I am afraid not lord duke. And you lord king, you are well?" he asked pleasantly and the king smiled. He was looking and presumably feeling older with the constant stress but he waved to a seat.

"Sit my friend. Have a drink and tell us why you are here." The king said and handed a glass to the elf who sipped it and nodded.

"Thank you lord king. I have been sent here at the behest of Lord Elrond to get a final indication on your readiness or otherwise before I meet with the High King." Tiraldórë said and the king nodded.

"Maelius, would you be so kind?" He asked and the Archduke nodded.

"Of course lord king. As you could not have missed ambassador, about half of our army is encamped around Annúminnas. The other half is spread across the vast land of Arnor. Three in Arthedain for example, two in Rhudaur, six in the south. All together we have about a hundred thousand troops equipped and ready to move. The question is Ambassador, do we begin the concentration? Do we move to Imladris or do we let the divisions of the south remain where they are?"

Tiraldórë looked a little nervous, he was being asked to make a decision for both kingdoms, and he had not the power to give a definite answer. The king came to his aid though.

"Ambassador, you do not have to answer those questions. We both know that you have not the authority to make such a decision. Maelius was just saying it to illustrate the potential problems there are. I will ask you a simpler question. Is the Army of Imladris ready?" The king asked.

"We are just completing the camps for your troops and that of the Army of Lindon. The great company is prepared." Tiraldórë said, stating facts. "I cannot make judgement or say anymore than that. All I know is that we will be ready on time."

Elendil nodded slowly. It seemed like a wasted effort to him to come all this way to tell him what he knew.

"Thank you Tiraldórë, we appreciate your kindness in telling us so. Do stay here until you are rested and then go on to Santäissa."

"Thank you lord king." The elf said and left the room. As the door closed, the two men looked at each other.

"It seems strange that he came all this way just to tell us that." Elendil mused.

Maelius smiled. "But did he?" He asked smugly. The king frowned, not understanding his words. "I mean lord king that Elrond sent him to investigate our preparations. Tiraldórë is blameless but Elrond is a cunning leader. Now he can report to the High King with perfect clarity."

Elendil sighed. He had not thought of that but the Archduke was quite right. Elendil wished he could rule a simple kingdom but it was not to be.

"What a suspicious mind you have Maelius."

"I do what is needed lord king." Maelius said.

"Where is my son?" Elendil asked.

"In Tharbad, meeting with Duke Talliar. He should return soon."

"Good. When he gets back, we concentrate the army. I do not wish to wait until it snows here." He said, half to himself. He turned to his regent. "This is what will happen Maelius. We gather the army; send a message to Imladris to show we are ready. We march troops there, camp the rest near the meeting point and have the rest come up from the south of Imladris." He said and the Archduke nodded. "So we have four divisions in Imladris camp, three to the south, five near the meeting point, and six moves up from the south towards us and the first division, goes with me to wait at the meeting point at the right time."

Maelius nodded. "Very well lord king. It shall be done."

"Good, see to it Maelius. It begins now."

Three Weeks Later

There was a knock on the door and Valentai sighed and laid down his pen. He made to stand up but Aëorith held up his hand.

"I will Lord Valentai. It is probably just the daily report."

Valentai sat back gratefully as the blonde haired elf walked across the room and pulled open the door. He stepped back as the tall elf on the other side asked in a clear voice.

"Lord Valentai?" The hero stood and walked across the floor. He patted Aëorith on the shoulder and the elf took the hint and went to get some water from the pump in the bathroom.

"That is me." Valentai said to the elf who nodded.

"As you know Lord Valentai, a meeting of all commanders would be held this week."

"So I was told. Glorfindel and Anderónë arrived yesterday."

"There has been a change of plans." The elf said neutrally. "The meeting will be held this afternoon, two hours after midday." The elf finished and bowed.

Valentai frowned and then shrugged. "Fine. Tell the High King I will be there of course. Thank you my friend."

The door closed and Valentai looked at the hourglass on the wall. It was an intricate thing which was quite accurate considering how it worked. It told him that it was a half hour to midday and Valentai sighed. He had been working on the distribution of horseshoes to the light cavalry but shrugged, they could wait a day. It was late autumn and the weather was cooling off. The summer had been mild and the trends suggested a cold winter. Aëorith emerged and looked at Valentai questioningly.

"The meeting scheduled for late this week is happening in two hours." Valentai said and the elf nodded.

"I suppose I had best continue finding horseshoes." The elf said with a serious face and Valentai nodded.

"I suppose so. If I am not back after two hours, you may go." Valentai trusted the aide not to shirk his duty.

"Of course Lord Valentai." Aëorith said.

Valentai walked up the steps of the palace. He was slightly early and he seemed the only member of the council to have arrived yet. He heard voices at the top and was surprised when he saw Tiraldórë talking with Linados. The two smiled as he crested the stairs.

"Lord Valentai." Tiraldórë said with a bow.

"What are you doing here? I thought you were buried in rural ignorance as Glorfindel would say." Valentai said and clapped the elf on the shoulder.

"It is because of him that you are having this meeting now." Linados said happily.

Valentai nodded. "I thought you did not talk on duty." He said lightly and the elf shrugged.

"I forgot." Linados said and Valentai laughed.

Tiraldórë took Valentai's elbow and led him to the far side of the top of the stairs. "When this meeting is over, I would like to talk to you in private." The elf said quietly and Valentai nodded slowly.

"Of course, but why?" He asked, puzzled.

"Has Glorfindel mentioned a possible problem?"

"He did. I see." Valentai said.

The door opened and Linados welcomed them in. The others were arriving and Valentai saw Milotüré. He kept away as was befitting the tone of this meeting and followed the bodyguard in.

Gil-Galad greeted them and bade them sit. Valentai sat next to Milotüré and patted her leg out of sight of all before resuming his normal posture, hands on the table and back straight. Anderónë came in last and nodded to Valentai. His had been the last camp he had inspected and Valentai was impressed that they were ready even though they had the largest number of new troops.

Gil-Galad nodded to them all. "My friends I am glad we are here. I know I said that we would be meeting later but I did not anticipate the arrival of Tiraldórë from Imladris." Tiraldórë nodded from his standing position from the side of the High King. "As you know it is just five months until we must be at the meeting place. Our armies are spread out and have not trained together in larger formation groups. I have been assured by the ambassador here that Arnor and Imladris are ready and have began concentration of their forces. Do we do the same? I leave the decision to all of you. Is what I have said true Tiraldórë?" Gil-Galad asked.

The elf was not about to say the High King was wrong so he nodded. "Yes lord king."

"Good. Now my friends." Gil-Galad said and the ambassador took the hint and left quickly.

When he was gone Malas spoke. "If my advice is heeded, then we should concentrate as soon as possible. March some units on at the new year and just leave some of them for the meeting. Enough to be suitable and dramatic but not enough to be impractical."

"I agree with that." Valentai said and had the moment of brief joy when he saw they now listened to him. To his every word instead of dismissing it out of hand.

"As do I." Círden, summoned from the shipyards agreed.

There was a murmured acknowledgement from all others. The High King nodded.

"Is there any opposition to this?" He asked, looking instinctively to Celedaih but the veteran elf nodded approval. There was no dissenting voice to be heard and the elf king sighed.

"Let it be so then. In two days you return. Take the time you need. Assemble the army on the western side of the Baranduin. Then, when we decide it is time, Anderónë and Celedaih will lead and get there two months before the meeting. It will take a month and a half from the old battlefield to Imladris by marching so we must leave us enough time. When that is done, Milotüré will lead that great company to Imladris. Lastly, the cavalry and Glorfindel's will go to the meeting. Understood?" He asked and smiled.

"My friends, have a thought as to what will happen now. We start now a chain of events that will see us either see us victorious or utterly defeated." The High King's words were portentous. The commanders nodded and saluted as they rose.

"And I say lord king that we will not fail ourselves or the people of this world." Malas said and bowed.

Gil-Galad nodded and the commanders left the room, closing the door behind them.

Outside the room, Tiraldórë walked to Valentai's side but the hero waved him on.

"Tell me when we get to my room please Tiraldórë." He said quietly and the elf nodded quickly and followed the hero down through the streets. Valentai turned to Glorfindel and Milotüré. "Milotüré, would you mind coming over in about an hour?" He asked politely and she nodded.

Valentai walked on with the ambassador until he reached his room and pushed it open. He had taken less time than he had thought and Aëorith was still in the room. The aide stood as Valentai entered and saluted both the prince and the ambassador. Valentai held up his hand.

"Thank you Aëorith. You may go, please be back here tomorrow, there is a lot to do now a decision has been taken."

The elf clearly wanted to know what decision had been taken but the look on his commander's face did not encourage questions so the young elf scampered from the room and Valentai waved the ambassador to a chair.

"Sit Tiraldórë. Have a drink and tell me the problem." The black haired elf accepted both invitations and looked at the Prince of Santäissa.

"Lord Valentai. In addition to the task I was sent here for, Gildor also wanted me to talk to you. He believes that there was a misunderstanding between you and the Lady Silmarë. It seems that she misinterpreted your actions and words. Her long standing rivalry with the High Captain you understand has made things slightly worse."

Valentai nodded slowly. "I see. This is all just a simple misunderstanding. Still, I must tell Milotüré about it. So she thought I had feelings for her?" Valentai mused the last question to himself.

"Gildor believes it would be best, more tactful anyway, to talk alone with both of them." Tiraldórë sighed. "Letting the two of them in the same room is not advised you see. You had the misfortune of being put into this position. It has been seen as a personal slight to the loremaster. She does not hold you accountable but has expressed anger at the High Captain."

Valentai suddenly laughed and Tiraldórë looked at him in puzzlement. "Such fuss about very little my friend. I must admit it has never happened to me before but it has happened before in my experience."

Tiraldórë nodded. "It is so yes; I just thought I would let you be informed. Gildor did not want you walking into this unknowingly."

"I shall have to thank him for being my minder." Valentai said with a smile. "Thank you Tiraldórë. Nothing more will be heard of this, I can assure you of that at least." Valentai said and the elf bowed and made to leave. Valentai called out to him. "How selfish of me, I forgot to ask you about how you and the others in Imladris are." Valentai said and the elf turned and smiled again.

"I am well that is certain. The captains are tired out but they have done well. Elendil is starting to move his troops down into Imladris."

"And the war has not even started and we are tired." Valentai said aloud and Tiraldórë grimaced.

"It will only get worse." He added gloomily.

"That is true. So what is your role in this army when the war actually begins? I cannot imagine you standing in the front lines with a sword." Valentai said and the elf grimaced.

"I did once of course but I was very young then. I can use a sword but not well. I have been appointed liaison between the two armies."

"You will do well in that role. Make sure Isildur does not do anything stupid?" He asked and the elf looked uncomfortable.

"Not so much stop, as modify would be the right word." He said carefully.

Valentai laughed. "You are right, not even the Valar can stop Isildur. Hopefully his father will not do anything rash in that regard."

"His father is no fool Lord Valentai. He knows about his son, that is why Anárion is in Osgiliath and not the other way around."

"It is good to see you again Tiraldórë. Milotüré will be along soon I expect, she does not like to be late." He smiled but frowned slightly when he saw the ambassador's mix of amusement and puzzlement. Both were not directed at the prince but at a thought that had just struck him.

"Tiraldórë?" Valentai asked, a little unsure.

"Sorry Lord Valentai. I was just thinking you have been with us for only two years. Two years and like I said to Gildor, I cannot imagine Santäissa without you." He said genuinely. Valentai smiled rakishly.

"It is strange but I feel as though I have been here for many, many years longer than that." He stood and clapped the elf on the shoulder. "If only I could have spent more time at peace with your kind. Unfortunately, I must wait until peace for that pleasure." He said and the elf nodded and walked from the room. Only a few minutes later there came a knock at the door and Valentai was startled from his thoughts and called out.

"Enter." The door opened and Milotüré walked into the room. Valentai rose and walked across to her and embraced her quickly before pulling back and looking into her eyes. Her face was touched with a hint of confusion and Valentai kissed her and sat down on the bed next to her. She looked at him.

"Valentai, what is this about?" She asked. "Glorfindel would tell me nothing and Tiraldórë has come all this way with a message. What has happened?" She continued.

Valentai sighed; this was not going to be as easy as he had thought. "It seems my dear there has been a misunderstanding." He said and continued despite her frown. "When I first arrived in Imladris, I asked the loremaster there to provide me with information-" His calm voice was cut off by a small hiss.

"Silmarë?" She asked coldly. The prince held back a sigh.

"Yes my dear. It seems that she took an exaggerated view of my feelings for her which were nothing other than-" He stopped as he saw her face. She sagged slightly as she looked at him.

"Tell me the truth Valentai." She said weakly. Her persona of control and self assurance had gone, replaced with a dull sadness. Valentai suddenly felt very uncomfortable.

"The truth is." He said and took her chin in his hand and made her look into his eyes. "I never showed any love or feelings towards her. I have not lied to you before and I will not start now. I swear on my life and that of all I hold dear that I am telling the truth. I love only you and have only ever loved you on this world." He said it genuinely, without anger or bravado. "I think you know that I would not lie to you and I am not. Do you believe me?" He asked and as he did so, his own face became slightly tired. After she did not answer he nodded and turned away. His shoulders fell slightly as he stood. "I see. I am sorry that this misunderstanding has caused such pain to you-." He began to walk away.

"Valentai." She said and then louder. "Valentai. Come back please." She said and he looked back. Her eyes were wet with the suggestion of tears and she walked to him and held him tightly. "I believe you Valentai. I believe you. I am sorry if you thought otherwise. I know that you are too good a person to lie to me." She said. She brightened up slightly. "Or fall for her." She said spitefully.

Valentai sighed and closed his eyes as she embraced him again. Valentai spoke as he brushed her cheek. "I keep a promise I make my dear and I shall love no one else whilst we shall both live." He said and she smiled and stepped back.

"Good. I am pleased that you were willing to tell me to my face." She said and her smile returned.

"I have never run from battle yet and to your face, I would say anything you wanted me to." He said with his own smile.

Milotüré excused herself to clean herself up and Valentai reflected it had not been easy at all. He would have some harsh words for the loremaster when they reached Imladris. For now though, he would concentrate on Milotüré. Valentai had found that he would have been genuinely heartbroken if she had left him. It was a feeling he had not had in many centuries.

Milotüré exited the bathroom and there was nothing vulnerable on her face now as she smiled and sat beside him. She kissed him and he asked the question he had wanted to ask her since he had heard about this mess from Glorfindel.

"Why did she do it?" He asked softly and Milotüré shrugged.

"I do not know. She dislikes me so that may have been reason enough. Maybe she wanted to break us up so she could try for you. Or maybe she actually believed what she was saying. It is possible."

"It is difficult to imagine but you are right. She could be telling the truth."

"Personally I do not care." Milotüré said forcefully. "I will make her mistake known to here." Her last words were grim.

Valentai laughed. "I really think not my dear. Let me handle this." He said and she looked at him strangely. Valentai sighed. "Believe me; I will not be pulled away from my purpose. I will find out the reason. I can assure you of that."

She laughed at his grim voice. "Well, I had best go. I will have to leave tomorrow."

"Yes, I suppose you had better." Valentai said and crossed to her. "Remember my dear, if you need me, I will always be there." He said quietly and she kissed him once more.

"I know Valentai. Thank you." And then she was gone out of the door.

"So how did it go?" Glorfindel asked when they met the next morning. Valentai was walking along the processional way. He was going to be riding back with the elf commander to help marshal the troops. Valentai nodded and turned as his friend came up behind him. He had no need to ask what the elf was referring to.

"In some ways it was better than expected and in some ways worse." Valentai answered vaguely.

Glorfindel knew he was treading on delicate ground but tried another oblique thrust. "Why do you think she started this rumour?" It was probably the best thing he could have said. He did not know if the two were even together anymore and the last thing he wanted was an angry prince.

"I do not know. She may have believed what she said or maybe it was her dislike for Milotüré." Valentai smiled at his friend. "That was not what you wanted to ask was it?" He said gently and the elf of Gondolin shook his head.

"I wanted to ask if you were still together." He asked, encouraged by the smile and light tone of the hero's voice.

"And you were trying to find out gently. We are perfectly fine Glorfindel. We know each other well enough to know that neither of us would lie about something so important. I thank you for your words and advice my friend." Valentai said and smiled.

Glorfindel breathed a tiny sigh of relief. "You are most welcome. Well, I see that we are off today. The army is being concentrated. It will take many weeks but we have done our planning well." The elf said.

Valentai smiled broadly. "We Glorfindel? You mean I have planned well?" Valentai said and clapped the elf on the shoulder. "I know." Valentai said when he saw the mock hurt on his friend's face. "I am sure you have done a good job."

"Why thank you lord prince." The elf replied coolly and Valentai growled.

"Don't call me that." Valentai said.

Glorfindel laughed. "I suppose we all have our sticking points Lord Valentai." He said.

The two reached the great gate of the city and saw that both Milotüré and Anderónë were waiting. Obviously they were waiting to depart and farewell each their fellow commanders. Anderónë walked forward and clasped the hero's hand.

"I will see you in the camp." He lowered his voice. "I was glad to hear about the two of you." He said and Valentai was touched by the genuine tone.

"Thank you my friend. Go in peace." He said warmly and as the elf moved to farewell Glorfindel, Milotüré came across to him.

Valentai bowed slightly. He kissed her hand and smiled. "I see that Celedaih has not stayed around."

She smiled. "He loudly disapproved of our time wasting and then rode off into the dawn. I will see you in a few months Valentai."

"You will, yes. Before you begin the march, all the commanders will return to Santäissa and then we formally bid farewell to this city."

She leaned close. "Go in peace Valentai." He smiled and clasped her hand.

"And you as well my dear." Then he turned and walked back to Glorfindel as the two High Captains and their staff and bodyguards turned and rode through the gates. Valentai turned to the golden haired elf.

"Do you even have a bodyguard?" He asked. He had never seen such a person before.

"In a way. He is one of my lieutenants. I do not use him often, if ever. You understand that Milotüré has one in the same way you have your boy as an aide. I do not know the specifics but I know Arundor was virtually raised by Milotüré. That is why she has one. Celedaih does not have one but Anderónë does. It is one of those things I suppose." Glorfindel said and shrugged. He looked to the gate. "Shall we go?" He asked and Valentai nodded.

"Lead on High Captain." Valentai said and then turned to Aëorith who had just come up. "Come Aëorith. Let us go."

Valentai peaked the ridge above the camp of the second great company as the light was finally failing and the winter chill approached. Valentai looked down at the camp and sighed softly. Now it would all begin, the death and the fighting. He liked this world and it's people and felt a closer connection to them then he had for many scores of years. He almost wished that he was not sitting above them, preparing to lead them to ultimately their deaths. Valentai sighed and looked to the golden haired elf as he rode up to his side.

"It is terrible really." Valentai said and the elf nodded.

"I know. To think that we must march tomorrow. We shall not see our homes for many years, or ever come to think of it." The elf said sadly and the prince nodded and turned his horse to ride down into the camp. The wagons were already drawn up outside and Valentai could see the temporary buildings such as forges and stables being dismantled and packed onto even more wagons. As the three riders came into sight, the troops cheered. The elves were in full battle array, their golden coloured armour and long swords reflecting in the light. The Eldar had cloaks of blue and silver and looked like an army of well dressed nobles. Every piece of armour was cared for and maintained and not one blemish could be seen on the fine metal. Elves with bows, swords or spears let them past and saluted them. Valentai expected to see at least some fear or even concern but all he saw was steely resolution. There was not one soldier that would not fight to their last breath.

To Valentai, who had seen many armies of many races he was impressed, he knew their quality and knew he had not seen it's like for many centuries.

Glorfindel saw his suppressed smile and leaned over to him. "They are good. They will not give up ever."

"They have you to thank for that." Valentai said and the elf nodded.

"Maybe but like you said, a commander is nothing without good troops."

"That is true." The hero agreed. "Now let us get some rest for the last time at peace Glorfindel." Valentai said and turned his horse back from the troops and to where the last tents waited. Valentai turned to Aëorith.

"This is your last chance lieutenant. There is no going back after today." He said and the elf frowned.

"Lieutenant, Lord Valentai?" He asked.

"That is your rank. You are from now, a lieutenant in the second light cavalry. A unit you have no need to see or even recognise if it charged you. So what is your answer?"

"I have gone this far Lord Valentai. I will not leave now. As long as I shall live or this war last, I pledge my service to you." He said humbly and Valentai nodded.

"I knew you would. Very good Aëorith. Meet me tomorrow at dawn in uniform with a sword even if you cannot use it and the real task begins."

Now Lieutenant Aëorith saluted and dismounted, leading the horses away.

Two months later Early SA3431

"Lord king, it is time to wake." Linados said gently and when he received no response he gently touched the king's shoulder. "Lord king?" He said and the elf king blinked and his eyes flashed slightly. He sat up stiffly and Linados backed away and bowed. Gil-Galad frowned slightly.

"Linados?" He looked out the window and saw that it was only just after dawn, he sighed. "What time is it and why is it so early?" He asked with a hint of irritation. Linados winced, no matter how many times he heard it, he was still slightly afraid when the High King asked a question in such a way.

"It is just after dawn lord king. You requested that I awake you early last night. I am sorry if I misunderstood. The formal departing is today." The bodyguard said without being defensive.

Gil-Galad blinked and looked at his aide. "Already? I had best be up then." He said and rose to his feet. "Is everything prepared and ready?" He asked for something to say as the bodyguard began laying out his clothes.

"It is lord king. You see?" He said and pointed to the far wall.

The High Kin's bedroom was a large room which was furnished and decorated with the best taste in everything. High windows pointed west and north over the city and to the distant mountains. A large four posted bed with a canopy was where the elf king slept. The bed was out of line of sight of the door and the windows so that it could not be targeted by an assassin. Opposite the door was a chair where Linados sat during the night, a sword on his lap and a throwing knife in his hand. Near the door which was on the south eastern wall were a large wardrobe and a door through to a private bathroom. Linados was pointing to where, near the western window was a stand of armour and a long sword. The High King sat up and walked slowly over to them. They had not been there when he had slept the previous night. He looked to his bodyguard as he looked over his armour and sword.

"I did not hear you doing this." He said lightly and the bodyguard smiled.

"If you do not mind me saying lord king, you would not hear a half company of drummers practicing by your bed." The two elves smiled and Gil-Galad looked back to his battle gear.

It had been six centuries since he had worn them with the intent to go to war. Then it had been a minor struggle where only a few hundred Eldar had swept away many times their number of orcs and wild men. The last time the sword had been bloodied or the armour dirtied was at Lake Eventide, so long ago. The armour was similar in form to that of the regular elven infantry except it was more ornate. There was no helm for the High King despised the lack of vision they imposed. Nearly all of his commanders followed his lead in that regard. The blue cloak of his father Fingon was there as was his sword. He looked back to where Linados was smiling at him.

"It was so long ago that I wore these to fight. Give me a hand if you would Linados." The elf saluted and was instantly helping the elf king remove his tunic and put on the silk undershirt, the mail and then the flexible cuirass of golden coloured steel. The cloak was fixed to his armour and swept back so that it would not encumber him. The light boots and finally the sword was secured in place. Finally, the elf king pulled on his gloves and looked at his reflection. He smiled and turned to Linados who bowed before him.

"You look as noble as you did when I first came before you lord king. I hope that one day we shall be rid of it forever." Linados said with genuine warmth and the king drew his sword and held it to the morning light. The blade of a true warrior, the blade of a king. Forged so long ago that now few remembered, this blade had been forged for Finwë by his son Fëanor. Carried, lost and remade it was now the sword of the High King. It was indeed a miracle of balance, one of the best swords ever made indeed. Gil-Galad sheathed it and took the shoulder of his friend and then walked through the door to the entrance of the palace.

Valentai bowed as the High King came out onto the top of the stairs. The Prince of Santäissa looked every bit as noble as the king. Now dressed in his full battle attire as he had not done since the battle at the pass he rose and smiled at the High King. The hero had his dark blue cloak with thick trousers to stop a glancing blow and high light boots. He wore the metal armour which looked as it had done when he had first acquired it all those centuries ago. Caer'dan hung at his side and the simple pommel which bore neither jewel or inlay glinted in the light as he stood. His eyes and hair were bright as the High King acknowledged his salute.

Since the meeting with Glorfindel, Valentai had returned to Santäissa and had spent the time since making sure everything was ready. He had visited the camps and then seen to the preparation of the city and it's defenders.

"Rise Lord Valentai. The moment is upon us at last. To say goodbye to this city."

"It is a shame Elrond cannot be here to see it lord king." Valentai said feelingly and Gil-Galad nodded.

"It is indeed but he shall return." The king said, not looking at Valentai who frowned.

"As will you surely lord king?" He asked the relevant question.

Gil-Galad did not answer and looked over the city longingly. Finally he spoke. "No." He said at last and Valentai cocked his head to the side.

"No?" He asked.

"In bringing this alliance together and leading it I will have achieved my life's work. If we are victorious then all I have been king for shall have been completed. I cannot see ahead to the end of this war or beyond it. And in the end, it does not matter if I fall or not. As long as my home survives." He had been speaking absently as though he was talking of the weather and Valentai felt like protesting but knew it was useless.

"As you say lord king. After all of this time why do you think it will be now?" Valentai asked.

"I do not know." Gil-Galad said, snapping out of his daze. "I just have a feeling about it."

"Then let us hope it need not come true. There is no need for you to be even near the front lines. That is not the place of a commander." Valentai said and Gil-Galad nodded.

"They approach." He said and Valentai looked to see where four riders were approaching.

The riders dismounted at the foot of the stairs. There they were joined by two others and together they climbed the stairs. Five of them wore armour whilst the last wore simple clothes. They climbed the stairs and when they reached the top they bowed before the three commanders at the top near the entrance to the palace. Valentai wondered why he was up here but knew the High King had desired it so for some reason. The six bowed and Gil-Galad smiled at each of them.

"Rise my friends." He said and the four High Captains, Malas and Círden rose and looked to the High King. "This is the day when we must not only ride away from this city but also farewell the first and third great companies as they march to the encampments of Imladris. I have nothing more to say, you all know exactly what to do and I know that you will not fail me or your soldiers. Now, talk for the last time and be ready to ride in an hour. Círden, I entrust the city and all of Lindon to your care. I know that you will succeed where others would fail. I hope to see you again soon my friend." He said and the old elf nodded.

"And you as well Ereinion." He said flatly but with a look of emotion in his eyes.

"Go my friends; I will be ready in an hour." The High King said and the commanders nodded and slowly walked down the stairs. When they reached the bottom, Valentai looked for one of the five armoured elves in particular and smiled as she turned to him.

"And how are you my dear?" He asked with a light tone. Milotüré smiled and then, to his surprise embraced him tightly. The clatter of their armour clashing made the others turn. Celedaih snorted whilst the other two High Captains and Malas were trying to stop themselves smiling. Milotüré pulled back and her black hair swept over her face until she pushed it aside. With a smile she took his hand.

Valentai was trying to stop himself smiling and was only just succeeding. "Well that was unexpected." He said lightly.

"I do not care that they see us Valentai and I do not care what they think. When we leave this gate we go to a war from which we may never return. I wanted to be with you one last time." She said with determination and Valentai smiled gently.

"And I am glad you did Milotüré." He said and mounted his horse. Aëorith, looking slightly uncomfortable in his armour. The younger elf mounted his horse also and bowed to Valentai.

"What do we wait for Lord Valentai?" He asked.

"The only thing that matters Aëorith, the High King." Valentai said distantly as he continued to look into Milotür's eyes. There was a clatter of hooves and Glorfindel appeared beside him.

"I thought we were solemnly waiting the hour of departure but you two would not notice would you?" He asked in exasperation and Milotüré smiled.

"Of course we would Glorfindel. Since you are staring at us maybe you would become lost?" She asked and rode away from Valentai slightly. Glorfindel smiled and looked at Valentai.

"I never asked, will you be with the High King as he meets Elendil?" The golden haired elf asked.

"I will be yes. With you of course." Valentai said as he saw Milotüré ride away to her place on the far side.

There was a flash of light and the High King himself walked down the stairs and over to where his horse was held. He mounted and drew his sword which, of old had been used in the defence of Eregion and even Beleriand before it fell.

He rode to the front of the six armoured commanders. His gaze looked from Malas to Valentai to his four High Captains. Then he nodded.

"Now, at this moment of darkness we must bid farewell to Santäissa and to peace. Think not of what we leave behind but what is before us. A promise has been made and I will see that it is kept. My lords and commanders, we ride now to a war from which the fate of everything you see rests on. An oath has been made."

Gil-Galad watched as even Valentai looked down and the High King smiled to himself. Círden had always said he was a good speaker. He wheeled his horse and held the sword to the light of the rising sun.

"And I keep a promise that I make." He said softly and rode on followed by his commanders.

Author's Notes – Raising an Army

That was one of my longest and probably one of the slowest of the chapters. It is necessary though unfortunately. It shows how difficult it is to create this army. There are so many things more I could have added to this. In fact, this chapter is probably the most jumping of all of my chapters. A year is a long time and so many things had to be put aside.

Read on though for the story does become more exciting as it goes on. By the end the reader will doubtless be sick of the war and wish for peace and I hope I can balance the two. After chapter nine there is only two more until the battle on the plains, both long but filled with many new people and slightly more exciting.

I wanted to parallel the friendship of Mestarië Celedaih and Maeldin with that of Milotüré, Gildor and Morantar and I have done this to show how close friendships are between the Eldar. Friendships forged over centuries are bound to be extremely close.

The idea of the Eagle Company is one that I like because to me it shows that the elves can live almost forever and still remember their old lands. Mestarië is an interesting character who has played a role in much of the history of Middle Earth. As far as I can see, the only canon character to have seen the falls of Finwë is Galadriel and I can think of no others. The two others are characters I have added. Súlimë (who will appear soon) and Mestarië. I feel it gives the characters a little more gravity if they really can remember the oath of Fëanor's sons.

One last thing, the Lifeguards of the king is the royal guard. It is a term used in the Napoleonic Wars among the Russian army for their guards. Just to clear up confusion.

So now we must meet Elendil and continue to form the alliance. Cue dramatic scene!