As I said with the last chapter, I am not posting more if nobody reviews. Though I can understand why you wouldn't. Enjoy.
Chapter 10 – Finding Friends Spring SA3431
The sun rose slowly over the mountains of the east. It was spring but still the air was chill in the morning and the mist rolled in from every lake and stream to blanket the lands in a dense fog. Little could be seen through this drifting whiteness but there was one feature that was visible. On a hill, just a hundred or so yards from the road was a large stone watchtower. It was a common enough sight for travellers on the great east-west road as it was the major guard post and garrison for this entire area. The hill was steep but not excessively so. It rose above the plains and the other hills around it to command a grand view for a score of miles in every direction. On it's crown was a ring of white stone built in two layers up the hill. Two paths ran up the hill and both were well guarded with towers and bastions. This was Amon Sûl. The watchtower and now, meeting ground of the alliance.
King Elendil walked slowly from the best room in the garrison along the stones still slicked with water from the rain two days before. The king acknowledged the salutes of those hw passed and climbed down to the gate that faced west. The king was an impressive sight that morning, his cloak of red over his plate armoured body and with a great sword beside him. The sword was so long that it had to be belted higher on his side or else it would snag on the ground as he walked. The old king climbed the watch tower over the west gate and smiled at the only man on this height. The man returned the smile with a salute.
"Lord king. You look well today."
"I am indeed Maelius. What are you doing up here so early?" The king asked. The Archduke was not usually a morning person, preferring late mornings and even later nights. Maelius smiled and pushed his black hair back from his face.
"You may think me hopelessly dramatic lord king but I could hardly sleep last night. For some reason this is like when we landed on that forsaken beach all those years ago.
Elendil nodded. He had not thought of that but now he did, he could clearly see the parallels. "We were all a lot younger then Maelius. Even I." He said with a small smile.
"As we were lord king. I never thought I would be waiting on this tower and waiting for the arrival of the Eldar from the west."
"Strange things happen Maelius. It feels strange to wear this sword again. Not for decades have I needed to use it."
Maelius looked down at the massive blade. The whole sword was over five feet long, the sword of a large man. Elendil was not called 'the tall' for nothing.
"Damn this mist, we could not see a warhost if they approached." Maelius said and Elendil smiled.
"If I know the High King and I think I know him enough for this, he will make sure that he can be seen before he makes his grand entry." The king said it slightly ironically.
"You mean the elves will make a big show of themselves?" Maelius asked innocently.
Elendil laughed. A sufficiently rare experience for those around to merit them turning and looking at their king. Elendil clapped his Archduke on the shoulder. "We are allies my friend. I think you should know them well enough not to mention such a thing in their presence."
Maelius smiled. "I think I do lord king."
Elendil reverted to his grave expression. "Where are our troops and who is coming?" He asked and Maelius pulled out a sheet of paper from his armour.
"The first heavy cavalry and the second light with the royal lifeguards will ride with us. A good honour guard I thought. We have four divisions in and around this area. The rest are in the camps at Imladris. We received word that they have settled in well."
"Thandal hasn't started a war between himself and the elves yet?" Elendil asked, surprise in his voice.
"It would seem not lord king. I think he avoids them too much for that to happen."
"A blessing in disguise then my friend." The king said and Maelius smiled.
"It will do him good to meet the Eldar he must fight alongside. He may learn to like them." The Archduke said hopefully.
"I think that there is as much chance of that happening as High Captain Celedaih of the elves will marry a human." The king said dryly and Maelius laughed. It was rare for the king to show such humour. It had been too many years since he had laughed, not since the last emergency, thirty years ago had he been really happy.
Maelius was interrupted by footsteps and he turned to see the prince. Isildur looked vibrant and excitable which the Archduke put down to the upper cycle of his mood. That mood had not changed over much in the last year, nor had it swung dramatically but it could and would at the most inopportune times.
Elendil embraced his son with a clang of armour. "My son. How fare you this day Isildur?" He said warmly and Isildur seemed surprised at the warmth his father showed. Maelius gave an almost invisible nod to the prince who smiled in thanks.
"I am well father, a great day it is. I thought I heard you laugh before. It could not have been you though could it?" He asked and the old king smiled.
"It was indeed. Maelius was telling me that he expected Thandal to become friends with the Eldar." Elendil said and his son burst into laughter.
"I must say Maelius; I always thought you were a sensible man. Sometimes though, you say the strangest things."
Maelius smiled and looked over the great road. The mist was burning off as the son rose higher and higher. It would be a fine day today despite the rain of the last week. Maelius concentrated on the west road, ignoring the conversations of father and son. After a few moments, his gaze started to swim and he imagined things.
The mist had burned off quickly. Quicker than he had expected so that his pickets could be seen a half mile in advance. Five miles away, the road peaked on a hill and crested onto the other side. On that other side was a small town called Torinsford. The land behind that was obscured by the hill. The Arnorian troops were quartered all around, twenty thousand men from the lands of Annúminnas. The reserve and the corps of the Baron Kerost. Sirinon however had been sent on and Maelius was in temporary charge for this day. Maelius heard a shout and jerked his gaze back. There was a flash of light. Golden light and then it was gone. He turned to see king and prince still talking and he decided not to bother them with what he had seen.
As he turned back he gasped.
"Lord king." He said and the king turned and smiled broadly. "They are coming." He said unnecessarily.
"Maelius, will you ride with me?"
The Archduke did not hesitate. "Of course lord king."
"And you Isildur?" He asked and his son nodded.
"Of course my king." He said with a teasing smile his father tried not to return as he called for his horse. Maelius looked one last time over the wall and saw the vision of beauty that had not been seen in more than seventeen hundred years of men. The Eldar had come.
High King Ereinion Gil-Galad watched as an excited Lauronwë rode back to him. The black haired cavalry officer looked happier than he had been for centuries and the elf king smiled at the thought. The golden armoured elf rode back to him and saluted with a bow.
"They are there lord king. I count four divisions and the banner of the king."
Gil-Galad had been told the same thing at dawn when he had roused the troops beyond the small human town. He did not feel like telling the enthusiastic captain that though. He could not bear to pierce the happiness on the elf's face.
"Excellent Lauronwë. Prepare my guard as you choose and then we will give them a show." The elf king said and Lauronwë saluted and rode back down the column. Gil-Galad turned to Glorfindel and Valentai at his side.
"He seems in a good mood today." He commented and Glorfindel smiled.
"He is probably thinking he will be back with his friend Gildor very soon." The golden haired elf said slyly and the two others chuckled.
"Glorfindel, I never thought you could match some others in this army with wit but it seems I may have been mistaken." Gil-Galad said happily.
"Yes, just be careful where you spread your cheer. I would hate for you to end up falling off a roof top." Valentai said sweetly and the elf smiled.
The column was nearing the ridge crest. The elven first company was just a hundred yards to their rear and approaching stolidly. The troops carried sheathed swords only and with armour and helmets on. The cumbersome shields, bows and spears were safely stowed in wagons. There was a clatter of hooves and Lauronwë came up to his side. Gil-Galad turned to see sever squadrons of cavalry riding either side of the column which halted obediently so that the troops were still out of sight. Lauronwë saluted the three riders.
"My king, I have the royal heavies and the third light and fourth heavy here as an escort." He said breathlessly and the High King nodded slightly.
"Excellent Lauronwë. I will ride over with them. Valentai, will you come with me?" He asked and his chief of staff nodded.
"I shall lord king." The hero said. He was amused by the whole scene but he supposed that the elves had to have a spectacle.
"Glorfindel, I know you like to make a show of yourself." Gil-Galad said and the elf smiled. "Bring up your troops." He said and Glorfindel nodded. Whilst the three riders rode to the front of the cavalry, the High Captain of the second great company smiled winningly and drew his sword. He rode to the front rank of the first company who remained stoically at attention even though many of them were trying to contain smiles.
"Elves of Lindon. On this day we go to complete an alliance long forgotten but now renewed. You represent your people, your nation and your king." He smiled broadly. "Give them something to remember!" he shouted and the elves cheered and he rose in his stirrups and called again. "Form line!" He called and the elves drew their swords and spread out so that they formed a broad and deep line instead of a deep column.
Valentai smiled slightly as he saw Glorfindel having his fun. The elven cavalry trotted forward and Valentai rode with them as they crested the slope with the Eldar infantry just behind them. Over the crest, Valentai saw a wide valley with a high hill with great formations of silver where the divisions were in ranks. A unit of cavalry, silver in the morning light was on the road and Valentai smiled again and turned as the golden haired elf somehow managed to regain his position next to him.
"Enjoying yourself High Captain?" Valentai asked innocently and Glorfindel smiled.
"You would not believe." He said and Valentai frowned slightly.
"I believe that I would not." Valentai said and the elf smiled.
The two cavalry units were just a few hundred yards apart when, almost as one, both the Archduke and Lauronwë held up his hand.
Three riders left each formation and rode towards each other. The two kings rode to within a few feet and bowed.
"Lord King Gil-Galad." Elendil acknowledged.
"King of the twin kingdoms Elendil son of Amandil." Gil-Galad responded tactfully and then the two rode forward and shook hands.
"The promise has been kept. We are honoured by your presence lord king." Elendil said genuinely and Gil-Galad smiled.
"I never doubted that either of us would not be here. It is we who are honoured to be here once more." The High King replied.
Elendil leaned close. "Maelius was right. He said you would make a display of yourselves." He said and nodded up the slope where the second company was starting to come into sight. Gil-Galad laughed and waved a hand at Glorfindel.
"It was the idea of our noble High Captain here. Was it not Glorfindel?" He asked and the blonde elf nodded.
"You might say that lord king." He said.
"Then let us go on. If it does not trouble you Elendil, we will dismount and talk somewhere?" He made it sound like a question but Elendil knew an order when he heard one.
"Of course lord king. If you would follow me, I have a tent assembled on the plain." Elendil said and the High King nodded and rode towards the distant shape being erected nearby.
Glorfindel walked over to the Archduke as the man dismounted. Maelius smiled and shook the elf's hand.
"High Captain, how are you?" He asked as they started to walk towards the white tent.
"I am well lord duke. I see you managed to get here on time?" He asked mockingly and the Archduke smiled.
"We were here last week when the fourth great company was just passing by. The other two had presumably gone before then?" He asked and Glorfindel nodded.
"As you would have heard, they went a few months ago so as to get ready. In the end we had more time that I thought." The elf stopped to let the others walk past and the Archduke frowned at him. Glorfindel leaned close and said very earnestly. "I think we would not be here if it were not for Valentai. I mean that."
The Archduke nodded at the seriousness of the tone. "Admirable person I suppose." Maelius said thoughtfully.
Glorfindel leaned back and smiled. "I do not know if I would say that"
Lauronwë was approaching and Maelius said as though he had been talking about it all along. "I hear there was once a battle here High Captain." He said and started to lead the elf to the tent by his elbow.
Glorfindel nodded, a little sadly. "Unfortunately there was. During the first war, after the disaster at Morinath, a whole company of the Eldar of Eregion were besieged here. The position fell before we could get here with reserves. Saründe was killed here." He said, thinking of the commander of the third greet company before Anderónë."
"I am sorry." Maelius said feelingly. He felt sorry that he had asked now.
Glorfindel smiled briefly. "It was a long time ago. It has all led to this point once more. Do not worry about me lord duke, lead on. This day is a happier day than that one."
The Archduke nodded guiltily as he walked on. Glorfindel smiled, he liked the man. The fact he seemed to show genuine compassion also raised the elf's opinion of him. It must seem strange to the men around them, the elf supposed that the Eldar still remembered and mourned events and for people lost more than a millennia ago. The elf shrugged and walked into the tent. It was the way of his people and it was not about to change.
The six commanders sat at the table which was spread with papers and maps of various sizes and shapes. The troops of both races had been camped apart, nobody wanted to involve with each other before the time was right. Gil-Galad looked absently at the maps and smiled slightly. Elendil and his son sat on the other side with Maelius and Valentai on the shorter sides of the table. Elendil spoke aloud and the elf king was pulled from his daze.
"Lord king, representatives of the Army of Lindon. We gather here for the final leg of the journey to Imladris. It is a two week journey which means that within the month, the troops should be settled in the camps above Imladris. I have received word from Baron Thandal that the camps are satisfactory and sufficient for our troops."
"As have I Elendil. My three other great companies as you know have arrived or are just arriving."
"That is good. So what do you propose for order of movements?" Elendil asked.
There was silence. The obvious answer was the Eldar as they marched faster and were not as encumbered as the men of Arnor. However, the High King was not about to say this. Valentai knew that now was where the tact began and where objections would be put aside. With a shake of his head, Gil-Galad smiled.
"It concerns us not Elendil. I suggest that the cavalry go first of course and that the infantry follows."
Elendil nodded although he was also clearly trying to think of a tactful answer. "I would say that we should lead." He said finally. He held up his hand. "I merely say that lord king because we have had time to rest and your troops have not. By the time we have passed, you will have had time to rest your troops."
Gil-Galad smiled at the words. "As I said King Elendil, the choice is yours. Now, shall we adjourn?"
"Of course lord king." Elendil said with a bow as he stood. "We shall depart tomorrow morning. A great day this is." The king said warmly and Gil-Galad nodded gently.
"As you will." He said and the six commanders rose and walked outside. Valentai walked over to the Archduke who bowed slightly.
"Lord Valentai." He said, wisely remembering not to call him prince. "I hear that much of what has happened is due to your skills."
Valentai smiled at the man. "That may be my friend. So tell me Maelius, how are the gallant nobles of Arnor coping in the grasp of the Eldar?" He asked lightly and the Archduke smiled.
"Well they have not started a war yet, they are probably terrified to come out of their tents." Maelius said conspiratorially.
"They will learn Maelius. Eventually. Any news from Nantaris?" He asked.
"None for six months. The duke said he would only send news if it was necessary and rely on the regular messages from Anárion to convey the news required."
"That is a good sign at least." Valentai said and looked around to see Glorfindel walking with Lauronwë towards the watchtower upon the hill. Valentai called a greeting but the two elves were two engaged to respond. Valentai shrugged and led the Archduke to the tents of the first great company which were being set up beyond.
Glorfindel walked with Captain Lauronwë up towards the watchtower. They did not notice the amused and even awed looks of the Arnorian troops, just the hill. Many Arnorians had come to see the meeting and now they saw two leaders of the Eldar among them so they watched with interest as they walked on. Lauronwë spoke good common but he spoke in Sindarin to his friend for his thoughts were not on those around him but on the hill above him.
"You remember this place Lauronwë?" Glorfindel asked quietly.
"Unfortunately I do. I was there remember. Poor Anderónë. He never did get over it." The cavalry officer said as they stood looking upwards.
Glorfindel nodded gloomily. Another defeat it had been. After the cliffs of Morinath it had almost cause a panic. It would get far worse after that but at the time it seemed as though the enemy was unstoppable and the Eldar had no hope of stopping them.
"It was so long ago and yet I remember it like it was just a day ago." He said thoughtfully.
"And yet you do not remember your victories." Came a voice which they had both known as long as they had lived in Middle Earth. The two elves turned to see Gil-Galad smiling at them grimly. The men around had bowed or backed away as the elf king walked forward.
"Even a victory is a defeat lord king for as we die, more and more of that past die as well." Lauronwë said softly.
"Indeed, but in victory there are fewer who fall. Although that war seemed all of woe and destruction we won in the end. This was the beginning though. The beginning of the end for the foe. Never more were we so defeated on the fields."
"And yet the cities of Eregion were sacked and the grandson of Fëanor fell." Glorfindel said a little too harshly. Gil-Galad did not seem annoyed or try to correct his friend.
"Yes." He said simply and turned away. Glorfindel nodded and walked back down the hill. In a strange way he felt better for what the king had said.
Ten days later SA3431
"Lord regent, I believe that I see them." Came the voice of Keldoräth and Elrond nodded and looked again over the flowing river. With a score of light cavalry, the regent sat on his horse and nodded in approval as he saw a flash of light. It was near midday and the messenger who had arrived this morning had assured the regent that the two kings would arrive by midday. Elrond had been suspicious at such a fast pace but had decided to believe it. He looked to Keldoräth.
"I believe that is them. Shall we meet them on the far side?" He asked and the bodyguard shrugged minutely.
"it is your decision lord regent of course." Elrond sighed slightly. It was so difficult to get an answer out of those elves who served him.
"Then we shall cross through the ford and meet them there." He decided with finality and the other elf nodded and saluted his decision. Keldoräth held up his hand and rode across the fast stream to the far bank. He knew that he was shadowed and covered by a hundred good archers and felt better for that knowledge. He rode forward as the gold and silver of the human and elven lifeguards came into view. The midday sun was sparklingly bright upon the helmets and armour and banners of the riders. Elrond halted as the cavalry came closer. He looked to Keldoräth who nodded and ordered the cavalry to present arms.
The half-elf watched as the two kings rode forward towards them. He saluted them as they drew in close to him.
"Greetings my lords. I have the honour of welcoming you to Imladris and the camp of the combined Army of the Alliance." He said dramatically.
Both kings shot a glance at one another and smiled. Gil-Galad reached forward and took the half-elf's shoulder.
"Thank you, son of Eärendil. Our combined troops approach and we would be grateful if we were directed to the right place." The High King said and Elrond nodded and turned.
"Osturin." He called and the cavalry officer came forward. He seemed relieved that Lauronwë was not present.
"Lord regent?" He said and Elrond waved to the infantry whose lead ranks were just appearing over the crest of the hill.
"Find the commanders of each human division and elven company and direct them to the correct locations. That includes the elven cavalry." Elrond said with steel in his voice. He had no wish to cause an incident this day
Osturin, trapped, nodded slowly. "Of course lord regent." He said and turned to ride up the hill. Gil-Galad called to him.
"Even better captain, find Archduke Maelius and Prince Valentai and tell them, they will handle the rest." The elf king said, well aware of the capabilities or lack thereof in the cavalry captain.
"Of course lord king." He said and turned to ride away. His horse eventually disappeared into the mass of troops of the second Arnorian division.
Gil-Galad turned top Elrond and smiled. "Lead the way Lord Elrond. Lead the way." He said and the regent of Eregion nodded and rode on.
Valentai sat on his horse and watched an irate Osturin ride down towards him. The elf grimaced as he reined in by Valentai who obligingly walked the horse off the road so he could speak with at least some privacy.
"Prince Valentai." The elf said and Valentai fought the urge to berate the elf. "We are approaching where we must split with the human troops. I am to show you the way and the right place for the troops to be camped."
"Very well captain. And you are well I trust?" He asked absently and the elf shrugged.
"We get by lord prince." He said and Valentai sighed.
"Good work Osturin. Just refrain from calling me prince." Valentai said very wearily.
The two camps were massive. Like Elrond had said, they were impressive indeed. The two camps were a mile apart on the flat land north of Imladris. There was a good deal of open space but much of it had been sloped or covered in brush or water courses. Elrond's engineers therefore had levelled and cleared and drained for nearly four months before they pronounced the two sites ready to start on. Now they were finished, great wooden fortresses which each held an army. The structures had sides a half mile long. An impressive, almost inconceivable size which had used whole forests of trees and tons of earth and rock to create each one. Protected by ditches and earthworks, each fortress housed some sixty thousand tents in four sections with the centre of the fortress reserved for the wagon park and headquarters. The soldiers were given the choice of sharing a tent of having one for themselves. An unusual move in Valentai's opinion but it had helped gain more room for the many miscellaneous items an army required. Valentai was very nearly impressed. He was not often impressed anymore but occasionally he saw things that were a masterpiece of design. He turned to Aëorith who had just ridden up and was now looking in awe at the vast fortress. Valentai smiled.
"Impressive is it not Aëorith?" He asked quietly and the young elf nodded.
"It is Lord Valentai. I presume though that you have seen better." He said and the hero smiled.
"Not necessarily. I will say that this is the largest temporary wooden fortress I have ever seen." He said, trying to think of another. Even the camp of Callidar of Ben Kishtar had not come close to this.
"Let us look at it shall we?" He said and the aide nodded.
Inside, the four corners were reserved for the four great companies of Lindon whilst the Imladris great company was spread across the remainder. Glorfindel's troops were quartered in the north eastern corner as befitted their status as the second great company. Valentai rode to the side of Glorfindel who was trying to look around in awe whilst trying to distract Lauronwë from meeting Osturin. The blonde haired hero turned and smiled.
"I am impressed." He said simply and Valentai nodded.
"It is impressive indeed Glorfindel." Valentai said. Then the prince smiled nastily. "I hear you have a tent here." He said sweetly and Glorfindel looked at him.
"Yes, I suppose I do." He said, trying to decipher the look of glee on the chief of staff's face.
"I don't" He said with a smile. The elf frowned.
"You mean-" He asked and the prince nodded.
"The rights of a prince. I knew I would appreciate them eventually." Valentai said happily and turned to his aide. "You hear that Aëorith, you have better quarters than the High Captain." He said and Glorfindel growled.
"Would you stop making an issue out of it?" The elf asked in annoyance. He was indeed a little annoyed that the hero had snared his old room in Imladris while he lived in a tent. Valentai smiled.
"Do not think I do not share sympathy for you Glorfindel. I am inviting you and all of those who wish to come to a reunion." He saw the elf begin to brighten up despite the injustice visited upon him. "I will have some of the wine the duchess gave us." He said and the elf finally nodded with a smile.
"Thank you Valentai. I know you have uses for it." He said and Valentai clapped his arm.
"You know as well as I that I will spend almost the entire day working in that room or out here yelling at people and that I will have a few hours sleep a night."
Glorfindel nodded seriously. "I am sorry." He said and Valentai sighed in exasperation.
"It is true then. You cannot tell when I am serious and when I am not. Anyway, whenever you wish you may come down. We have a lot to do so do not hurry yourself." Valentai said and the elf nodded and turned. Valentai turned to Aëorith who was trying to hide a smile. "Aëorith, take that smile away, war is not a laughing matter." Valentai said pompously and the elf tried to stop his happy expression but failed. "Go and get cleaned up Aëorith and have my things brought in. Send a message to Captain Gildor saying what I just said to High Captain Glorfindel. If you see Lady Silmarë." He paused. "Just try to avoid her; she does not know you yet." He said and the elf nodded as he turned and rode back down the hill.
Valentai looked along the clean rows of Eldar soldiery and smiled. He looked along and knew exactly where to go. The south eastern corner. He rode along and acknowledged the salutes of those he passed. The camp was very well made and Valentai suggested that very soon, it would become a true elvish home, filled with nature and beauty. For now though, it was cold earth and wood with the white of the canvas tents contrasting with the wooden stakes and the brown earth. Valentai dismounted and gave the reins to a stabler as he walked through the camp until he neared a large tent in the south eastern corner of the encampment. He smiled as he neared it and as Arundor saluted him. Valentai smiled at the elf that nervously stood in front of him.
"Is the High Captain in?" Valentai asked gently and the elf nodded and held out a hand.
"Please wait here a moment Lord Valentai." She said and walked into the tent. There was a brief conversation and then Arundor came out with a small smile. "The High Captain is happy to speak to you." She said trying to contain a smile. Valentai patted her shoulder in a vague way.
"Thank you Arundor." He said and walked in.
The tent was actually quite large inside compared to what Valentai had guessed. It was perhaps half the size of the main part of his room in Imladris. It had a central tent pole as well as one post to support the centre of each wall of the tent. In the centre was a foldable table with three chairs, a bed near one wall, a wooden divan and a screened off area for bathing. Milotüré sat at the desk and got to her feet as Valentai entered. She smiled and walked up to him.
"Valentai. I am pleased you are here. As you can imagine, this is my home for as long as this war lasts." She said dryly and Valentai grinned broadly. "What is it Valentai?" She asked imperiously.
"I came here for a reason. I came to invite you to my humble room in Imladris. Fourth room south eastern corner facing east over the river. Anytime you wish to come is fine. Gildor, Glorfindel and myself will be there as will several others." He said and she stared at him.
"How did you manage to keep that room? I thought the High King ordered only himself, Elrond and Malas were to remain in Imladris?" She asked him and he shrugged.
"He did I am sure. He forgot one person though, me." Valentai said and she rolled her eyes in exasperation.
"First you are promoted over me, then you are made a prince and now you live in luxury." She said and flung her hands into the air.
"The benefits of rank my dear." He said teasingly. "Besides, I am not going to be enjoying myself down there am I?" he asked and she glowered at him.
"I hope not Valentai, for your sake." She muttered. Then she smiled wryly. "You know I do not mean that Valentai. Of course I will come. I have a few hours of work to do then I will be down there." She said softly and he smiled.
"I have missed you my dear." He said in his usual, impersonal way but she could tell he meant it.
She walked forward and embraced him tight, their armour clashing before she pulled back with a grimace.
"And I you Valentai. This armour is always in the way." She said in annoyance and he patted her shoulder vaguely.
"I had best go and make sure that no one has stolen the bridge over the river." He said lightly and she nodded.
Valentai turned and walked out past the guard who was trying to contain an amused look and appear stoically at attention. Valentai sighed and remounted his horse. Valentai had to ride the road back to the ford and, after crossing there, head down the hill into the valley of Imladris. Valentai had missed it for it had been a small area of peace and nature. Valentai gave his horse into the care of the stables and walked back across the bridge towards his room. A voice hailed him from behind and he turned to see Tiraldórë and Gildor walking towards him. The captain raised a lazy smile.
"Lord Valentai, what a pleasure it is to finally meet you face to face." He said dryly and Valentai shook his head in slight exasperation.
"Good evening Captain Gildor." He said wearily. "And Tiraldórë. Where have you been? You vanished." Valentai said and the ambassador smiled slightly.
"I was sent ahead to make sure that the Arnorians did not start a riot or the like." He said lightly.
"Well, Imladris is still un-ravaged so I suppose you succeeded." Valentai said and the elf shuddered slightly.
"Only just I assure you Lord Valentai. Sometimes I regret knowing common so well." The elf said and Valentai smiled.
"Come on my friend. Come on Gildor." He said and the captain nodded and followed him up the stairs.
Tiraldórë took his elbow and Valentai urged Gildor on whilst he dropped back with the ambassador.
"Lord Valentai, I have some news for you. It is not official yet but it would seem that I am going as the negotiator to our allies." He looked at the piercing eyes. "You are coming as well." He said and Valentai frowned as he climbed the stairs.
"Why me? I am the chief of staff. My job is to stay here." Valentai objected and the elf grimaced.
"I know, I believe the reasons are that it would be wise to get to know our potential allies, especially those of Lórinand. Being chief of staff, you may make decisions in proportion to your rank. Also, your organisation skill could be of great use here." The elf said and Valentai nodded.
"When?" He asked and the ambassador lowered his voice.
"The council is tomorrow. I suppose you will be told then." Tiraldórë said.
"Thank you my friend." Valentai said thoughtfully. Either the High King was being considerate or he was diverting him away from the main course of the army. The latter was in no way preferable to the former and the hero would have to wait and see what happened on the next day.
Aëorith opened the door and Valentai smiled as the aide saluted him and the three elves.
"Come in my lords." He said seriously and Gildor smiled and patted the younger elf on the shoulder.
"A lieutenant I see. I suppose Lord Valentai is good at getting promotions for those he likes." Gildor said and Aëorith looked at his commander nervously. Valentai took the captain's shoulders.
"Stop making my aide nervous and come and sit down." He said and the elf bowed ironically.
"Of course lord prince." He said and Valentai growled.
"Milotüré is coming soon and I will tell her that she may dispose of you as she wills." Valentai said grimly and the elf's eyes darted around the room.
"Surely you don't mean that do you?" He asked pleadingly and Valentai smiled horribly.
"I have given you much warning in the past. Now sit down and have a drink before your doom cometh." Valentai said and nodded to Aëorith.
"You may go lieutenant. Find somewhere to sleep tonight and then be here at dawn tomorrow." He said and the lieutenant saluted and left the room. Gildor looked at him.
"So how did you get him a commission?" He asked and Valentai shrugged.
"The second light cavalry had a place for him. It is not regimental rank of course but he needs the rank I suppose." Valentai said and Gildor nodded. Tiraldórë looked about to add something when the door banged. Valentai looked at Gildor who sighed.
"Yes my lord." He said and walked over to the door. He pulled it open and smiled.
Milotüré saw Gildor in the doorway and could not resist a brief smile. Her smile became sardonic as she saw the others behind the captain.
"Gildor. Missed me?" She said sweetly and he shrugged.
"Not really." He said although his face showed he was lying.
Then forgetting all bravado or whoever watched them, Milotüré embraced him tightly. The captain returned it and the stood there for a moment. Valentai nodded slowly and Tiraldórë smiled slightly. Finally she pulled back and smiled at her fried.
"Well I have missed you, brother." She said warmly and Gildor took her hand.
"And I you, sister." He said and stood away.
Valentai stood and kissed her on the hand. "Come in my dear, do. Take a seat. It is good that you two have met again." Valentai said.
Milotüré frowned. "That may be so but then again, I suppose I had to show willing."
Valentai laughed as she tried to surreptitiously wipe tears from her eyes. "Gildor here has been in trouble with me have you not captain?" Valentai said sweetly and the elf grimaced but made no answer.
Milotüré leaned forward eagerly. "What has he done now? Not fallen down any more stairs?" She asked and Valentai resisted the urge to let the elf captain live in peace.
"Oh no. Far worse than that High Captain." Valentai said, ignoring the look on Gildor's face. "He has repeatedly disobeyed orders in the correct naming of my title." Valentai said grandly. Milotüré smiled happily.
"So you would hand him over to me? What would I do with him?" She asked to the room at large. Then she smiled brightly. "Gildor the ditch digger?" She asked and the elf sighed.
Valentai clasped his shoulder. "I am jesting of course. I would not hand you over so." He said and Gildor smiled gleefully.
"I knew you were not a cruel person Valentai." He said.
The door opened and Anderónë and Glorfindel walked into the room. It was dusk outside and Glorfindel frowned.
"It is so dark out there that I can hardly see a thing." He said as the two elven High Captains sat at the table. Glorfindel sat back with a lazy smile on his face.
"I heard that you may have a new role Valentai, keeping Tiraldórë company as he argues with dwarves." The blonde elf said it like it was the end of the world.
"So I was told." Valentai said and glared at the elf. "How do you know all of this? You really do have spies everywhere don't you?" Valentai asked and the elf laughed innocently.
"I could not admit to that of course." He said slyly. "But I have heard as much."
"So Glorfindel, you had a pleasant march?" Tiraldórë said genuinely and the elf laughed. Tiraldórë frowned. "What is so humorous?" He asked and the High Captain smiled.
"Nothing Tiraldórë. Now my friends. We are all together, let us celebrate." Anderónë put in, nudging the reborn elf in the side.
"I cannot see why." Gildor complained. "I had a good time but now all of you are here." He said.
"We can order you around?" Milotüré suggested lightly and Gildor rolled his eyes to suggest his point had been proven.
"So Glorfindel, looking forward to meeting your old friend Vallarië?" Gildor asked innocently and the golden haired elf's mouth twisted into a sneer of distaste.
"About as happy as you will be to meet Lauronwë and make up with him." Glorfindel said with no amusement whatsoever. His dislike of the son of Celembrimbor was well known but it's cause was not. Valentai sighed as a silence descended following that retort. Glorfindel looked apologetic.
"I am sorry." He said. "But I am not sorry for my dislike towards him." He said grimly and Valentai reflected that his three close friends each had a centuries long feud with another with whom the other two felt no such enmity. Perhaps the long elvish memories were not such a great thing after all. Valentai held up his hand.
"That is fine Glorfindel. I am not going to ask. But yes you will be meeting him tomorrow, as Gildor will be meeting Lauronwë. Sit yourselves apart as you wish but you will be in the same room so do try to avoid starting anything." He said and the elves nodded at the reasonable tone. "Good, then let us toast. To victory and peace." Valentai said and the elves around the table clinked the glasses together and murmured the phrase again.
After a two hours, or maybe more the elves said their farewells. Valentai smiled at each and turned to Milotüré who smiled at him. Valentai walked over and sat on the chair next to her.
"And you my dear? Are you going?" He asked gently, making it a question instead of a demand.
"If you wish me to." She said softly and he patted her shoulder.
"Not at all my dear. It is only that I have business to attend to this night so you will be alone here and the path back to the camp is best traversed in company." He said reasonably.
"What business?" She asked, intrigued by his slightly grim tone.
"I think you know my dear. Before anything else happens, I am going to see to this situation." He said resolutely and Milotüré nodded.
"I do not like her but do not be too harsh." She said and Valentai looked shocked.
"You misunderstand me my dear. I have no intention of hurting her, physically or mentally. I will merely point out the truth as I see it." He said. She nodded.
"I knew that was what you meant. I suppose you are right about both that and going back to the camp." She said.
"I think so. There is a meeting tomorrow and then I may be off for several weeks or months. You will know of course because you will be there." He patted her shoulder again. "I will send Aëorith as an escort for you back to the camp if you have no objections."
"Of course not Valentai." She said and he squeezed her hand again and wrote a brief order to his aide to act as an escort, then he turned to face her. "I do not know where he is for certain but try the library." He said and she nodded.
"Thank you Valentai." She said and kissed him briefly on the cheek. "I hope I did not embarrass you with Gildor before." She stated and he shook his head.
"After how long you have known each other, I do not mind. How can I? Be on your way, I will see you tomorrow." Valentai said and walked her to the door and out into the hallway. As she turned to exit he followed the route down to where the loremaster of Imladris lived. He prepared himself and then knocked on the door. He straightened his silk shirt and knocked a second time.
There were footsteps on the far side and the door opened to reveal Silmarë in a modest dress. She looked out nervously and then frowned as she saw him.
"Yes?" She asked, not impolite but intimating that impoliteness was an option, as was anger.
"Lady Silmarë. I believe we need to talk. Many sides I have heard but I have not heard yours. I would know so that I would not make judgement on you or others unfairly." Valentai said. His voice was calm and flat and she nodded at his words and held the door open. Valentai walked into the twin storied room and sat in a narrow chair. She sat opposite him and kept her face expressionless. The two stared at each other, their calm gazes seeking to break the other's concentration. Eventually Silmarë looked down; Valentai had the disconcerting ability of not having to blink which was useless except for making people uncomfortable.
When she spoke her voice was tired, far too tired for an elf even of her age. She kept her head low.
"I am sorry Prince Valentai." She said quietly. Valentai did not care about being called prince. At the moment he did not much care.
"What happened my lady?" He asked, his tone softening marginally.
She still could not meet his gaze. "I misjudged your intentions. I have seen and heard how you are an honourable person who does not lie. I should have asked you before you left, whether you felt any feelings for me. I let my anger at your, companion overcome me." She placed emphasis on the word 'companion'.
"So it was not about you or anyone was it really Silmarë? It was the fact that I fell in love with an elf you do not like." Valentai said bluntly. Her eyes flashed before she nodded slowly.
"I ask for your forgiveness." She said slowly. Valentai nodded slowly. Personally he had no idea this would go so well.
"I forgive you Silmarë. I do not dislike you any the more now than before. I also hope you have learned something from this Silmarë. Do not let your emotions guide you." He said and his voice softened so that she nodded slowly. Valentai rose and patted her on the shoulder. "Remember Silmarë, I will never consciously let anything happen to you." He said and walked to the door. The elf called out to him and he turned.
"Thank you Valentai. I deserved far worse." She said bitterly and Valentai shook his head.
"No my friend. All of us make mistakes and if I could not judge your thoughts then that is my fault. Even four thousand year old elves make mistakes." He said and she smiled.
"Thank you Prince Valentai." She said and Valentai shook his head sadly.
"Don't call me that." He said and walked from the room.
Walking along the hallway, he entered his room to find Aëorith inside. The elf was helping clear up the room and Valentai nodded to the aide as the elf saluted.
"Lord Valentai, High Captain Milotüré thanked you for sending me as an escort." He looked slightly flushed and his ears turned slightly pink. Valentai sighed.
"What did she do Aëorith?" He asked and the elf muttered something. He looked up to see his commander's patient gaze.
"She kissed me on the cheek Lord Valentai." He said and Valentai laughed.
"You should be pleased. It is not often that one is gifted such by such a beauty." Valentai said grandly and the elf blushed even more.
"You are not angry?" He asked and Valentai laughed again. He clapped the aide on the shoulder.
"Of course not. She is terrible sometimes. I shall have to tell her to stop embarrassing you Aëorith."
The elf nodded and the prince gestured to a corner where his belongings had arrived.
"Sleep in here since you are here. One of us will wake the other, yes?" He asked and the elf smiled.
"How did your meeting with the loremaster go?" The elf asked. Valentai saw a rare glimpse of the person under the mask the elf wore.
"It went well Aëorith. It seems a genuine misunderstanding. Let us not speak of it again." He said and Aëorith bowed. The hero sighed and lay down on the bed to sleep.
Valentai woke early; he knew he had an important meeting so he had resolved to get as much done before it occurred. He rose and after a few minutes he was ready. The prince slung his sword at his side and looked out over the river of Imladris. Now he had stayed both here and in the white city, he did not know which he preferred. It was strange; he believed that he could be attracted back to the simple nature of Imladris. Turning he saw his aide still asleep, he felt the urge to leave him be but knew there was too much to do for that kindness. He knelt down beside the elf and touched his shoulder.
"Aëorith, it is time to wake my friend." He said gently and the lieutenant blinked to regain sight and rolled over to look at him. He looked slightly confused.
"Is it dawn already Lord Valentai?" He asked and Valentai smiled.
"It is indeed my friend and we need to be working until the meeting. I fear that we may be called upon to go on a trek and we can do nothing then." Valentai said and the elf nodded slowly and stood. He pushed his hair out of his eyes and walked into the bathroom with his clothes to change. Valentai shrugged and walked to the table and looked over the paper which had accumulated so far. After a few minutes, the elf came out and sat opposite him.
"What have we got so far Lord Valentai?" He asked with not a little eagerness. Valentai was amused that the elf was still so keen. Over time though, he would learn of course.
"Well, now there is an alliance we have a new job Aëorith. You said you can read and write common well?" Valentai asked and the younger elf nodded.
"Yes Lord Valentai. I have practiced my writing of it whilst I was in Santäissa." He said modestly and Valentai smiled.
"Excellent my friend." He answered and handed over some sheets of paper. "Rewrite those in common exactly the same. Do the same with the common sheets. I will deal with the normal things." Valentai said and the elf nodded.
After two hours, Valentai laid down his pen and looked to Aëorith who had done a very good job. There were few of the Eldar indeed who could read and write both languages fluently. Even the High king found writing in it difficult. Perhaps only Tiraldórë, Elrond, Linados and Gildor could do it as well. All were in positions where it was demanded of them or where their continued contact with the humans ensured that they would learn. Valentai smiled fondly as the elf had his eyes closed, mouthing the words and then writing the translations. The hero had to do that sometimes himself and was glad that his aide was so educated. Valentai looked at the hourglass and nodded.
"Aëorith, I have to go but do you mind staying here to finish off?" He asked, knowing the answer already.
"Of course not Lord Valentai, All of this will be done by the time you return." He said seriously and Valentai patted his shoulder.
"Good lad." He said absently. "How do you know both languages so well?" He asked, suddenly turning back from the door.
The elf shrugged. "My father was a trader with the Númenorian cities on the coasts even before the twin kingdoms. He learnt it and passed it on. When you appointed me your aide, after the alliance was formed I thought it would be useful." He said looking slightly embarrassed.
"Capital my friend. I am glad you did. Now I really must go." He said and, making sure he looked presentable he walked from the room.
Valentai walked out and across the courtyard of the centre of Imladris. There were many more soldiers about now than civilians and Valentai reflected on how much gloomier the atmosphere was now than when he had last been here. Passing the oak tree planted by Vallarië, he came to the largest building in Imladris. He smiled and walked up the stairs. Both Keldoräth and Linados were on the veranda and they saluted the prince as he walked onto the stairs. Valentai returned the salute with a smile.
"I see you are enjoying yourselves. Remember you are not supposed to talk on duty." He said and the elves smiled.
"I will try to remember that Lord Valentai but I tend to forget that sort of thing." Keldoräth said and Linados helpfully added.
"I am sure he does. Rather convenient yes?" He asked and the hero shook his head.
"Is the regent in?" He asked and Linados nodded, serious at last.
"He is. He and High Captain Milotüré are the only ones in so far. The other will arrive shortly." The elf said promptly and Valentai nodded, ignoring the look of humour on the other elf's face.
"Well then I had best be going up then. You had best stay here and make sure that the bridge is not stolen by a pack of thieves." He commented as he walked past. Linados saluted and Keldoräth bowed.
"Farewell lord prince." He said and Valentai sighed as he walked up the stairs to the meeting room.
Valentai entered on command to see Elrond and Milotüré looking over a map of the lands of Eregion. Elrond wore a formal blue robe with a short sword by his side. Valentai knew that the half-elf was a good sword fighter but somehow the two ideas did not seem to go together with the noble regent of Eregion. Elrond smiled and waved him in.
"Come in Valentai. As you can see the two of you are the only ones to have arrived just yet." He said and Valentai saluted.
"You did not think we would want to be late did you Lord Elrond?" Valentai asked innocently and Elrond tried to contain a smile as the elf lady's ears turned slightly pink at the memory of that mistake. Elrond turned away so that he would not be seen to be enjoying the joke.
Milotüré smiled at him. "As I recall, last time we were late because of you Valentai." She said with a wicked smile and Valentai returned it as he riposted the words.
"Then you must be losing your memory. Maybe once you get to a certain age you will become like a human and forget everything else." He said lightly and she snorted.
"I think that the only person in this room in danger of that is you, human." She said to Valentai who shook his head in wonderment.
"How many times do I have to tell you my dear? I am as human as you are. Now is your ancient brain able to comprehend what the regent is saying?" He asked and she cuffed him on the shoulder.
"I was more worried about you. I shall explain any words you do not understand Valentai." She said and Elrond finally held up a hand with a barely suppressed chuckle.
"Please my friends. I hate to break up this theatre but duty calls." The regent said, not quite sure why he was so touched by the affection the two felt for each other.
"There you go Valentai. I was doing something useful before you barged in." Milotüré said haughtily.
Valentai saw Elrond's look and nodded. "Continue lord regent." He said and Elrond nodded as he pointed to the map.
"I suppose you have heard, have you not, what the High King plans for you to do." Elrond asked and the chief of staff nodded.
"I have heard from Tiraldórë but I did not understand his purpose. This is a time when I thought I would be of more use here that trekking across half the world." Valentai said with conviction and the regent nodded slowly. It was clear the half-elf had been surprised by the strength of the argument.
Elrond nodded slowly. "The choice is entirely up to you Valentai; none would try to force you to do anything. I am not the High King of course but I believe I know some of his reasons. He wanted you to go so that you know at least some of the commanders and the people of the realms that you will be fighting beside. Also, we may need you skill of organisation if they choose to join us." The regent smiled slightly. "And also as a reward for your efforts so far. This army will be here for considerable amounts of time, perhaps a year, perhaps more and in that time you will have much opportunity to work until you collapse." Elrond said as though he made a winning point. Valentai looked uncertain still and Elrond frowned slightly.
"Please do not take this as a slight Valentai. I thought it would be good for you to do this." Elrond said and Valentai slowly nodded.
Milotüré took his hand. "Accept Valentai." She said and Valentai nodded.
"Very well. I will take Aëorith with me and-" He said as the door thumped.
"Enter." The regent commanded and the door opened. It was clear that Linados and Gil-Galad had known of this meeting and delayed the other's entry until they were sure a decision had been made in private.
A stream of elves and men entered. Soon there were sixteen in the room. Of the elves there were the now five High Captains, Malas, High King and regent and Valentai. Of the men there was the just arrived Talliar, summoned here from the south, he looked tired but resolute. There was also King Elendil, his son, the Archduke and the three last nobles of Arnor. The table was not large enough to seat all so Gil-Galad and Elendil sat side by side with their regents and military commanders to their sides. The six at the table looked at the ten remaining commanders and smiled.
Talliar stopped his conversation with Glorfindel to look at the two kings as they rose.
"Greetings my friends. A long journey it has been but now this stage is complete. We are assembled here, fulfilling the alliance that was signed and ratified in the year gone by." Gil-Galad said in a grand voice used to making speeches. "The question is, where do we go from here?" He asked and looked around at each face. Valentai also looked around; it seemed that the room had inadvertently broken into three different sections. There were the humans who disagreed with the alliance, the elves who thought likewise and the remainder who were thinking of the High King's words.
"If I may lord king?" Maelius said respectfully and Gil-Galad smiled.
"Of course Archduke." The elf king said gracefully and the man rose to his feet.
"My friends and allies. We have assembled a great army and when combined with the other kingdom of men, it will be a force such as the world has never seen for many centuries." He said it with a bow to the elves who nodded at his respect. Even Celedaih grunted and nodded. There was something about Maelius that made him impossible to dislike, perhaps it was his extraordinary tact which allowed him to speak to almost any person without fear of saying the wrong thing. He continued. "At the moment however, we are not one army. We are two armies and each force added to this is another separate force to be integrated. Put simply, this army cannot fight well unless it has marched and fought and even mixed with each other. We have time; time to make this army unstoppable if it meets the enemy in a straight fight. Therefore I propose that we remain in Imladris until we have word from our allies and we are satisfied we are ready." The Archduke sat and there were murmurs of appreciation from the assembled audience.
"But which way do you propose we go?" Malas asked.
Maelius held up his hand. "I have no grounding in logistics, none. I will leave that to those who know what they talk of." The Archduke said smoothly.
"Would we go yonder over the passes of the mountains?" Celedaih asked.
Anderónë shook his head. "I would advise against that lord king. To move this army over the mountains alone would take months and what could we do then? We could do nothing really but hug the shore of the Anduin and there are more obstacles that way." Elrond nodded in agreement.
"I agree with the High Captain. The mountains, even if the dwarves give us passage is too long and hazardous to be attempted."
"Then where?" Vallarië asked harshly. He was no friend of Celedaih's but the two of them had taken it upon themselves to show up elvish superiority.
"Through the gap of Calenardhon." Anderónë answered as though it was obvious.
Vallarië sighed at the thought of marching through hundreds of miles of human lands. "Very well, it will take a year to march all that distance and then more to reach wherever our target is."
"It is the only way." Gil-Galad said firmly as he fixed the descendant of Fëanor with a cutting glance.
"Then who?" Elendil said, moving away from that topic. "Has a plan for our movements?"
To Valentai's surprise, almost half of those in the room looked at him expectantly. He nodded and then spoke his thoughts.
"I do indeed have a plan as I said in Elostirion. The gap is the only way. We march through it and move up to the heartland of Gondor. We link up with the forces that Anárion will doubtless send from Osgiliath and march to the river bank." He looked at a map. "Cair Andros. According to my research, the river, ten leagues north of there is the narrowest for a hundred miles in either direction. If we can bridge it then we will be able to cross the river quickly and give battle on ground of our choosing."
There was silence. Malas answered. "A bold plan Valentai. Why there though? That is where the main enemy army is."
Valentai smiled. "A coincidence? No my friends. I ask any of you to think of a strategy that allows us to use this army as a single force to good effect. There is no point crossing at Osgiliath, the main enemy force is not there and I would rather fight it outside the black land than inside it. There are two entrances into the black land; therefore we must use both of them to win this war. Anárion attacks through Minas Ithil whilst we push through the gates at the north of the black land." He looked around at the assembled commanders. "If anyone can tell me another way that is logical then I will listen." He said calmly and the commanders looked at him in slight admiration.
Isildur asked the next question. "How long have you been thinking of this?" He asked.
"Since I first time I saw a map of this world and knew I would be part of an army that would attack the black land." Valentai said simply. "A commander must use logic and that is the only way in."
"Where then?" Gil-Galad asked. His respect of Valentai had grown since they had first met, what seemed like years ago but was only a year and a half.
"What good will crossing the river do?" Vallarië asked.
Valentai smiled. "It will draw the enemy to us. I have no intention of marching upon the black gates until the army that serves it is destroyed. So we draw them to us and fight them near the river. Good lines of supply and communication. We press the enemy over the plains and, with fortune; we shall over come them and destroy them once and for all. We choose our ground, where we cannot be outflanked and fight there. How that battle will be fought, even I cannot say but I will say this, it will be a brutal struggle and we shall need everyday this army can train for."
He nodded and looked around.
"Thank you Lord Valentai." Gil-Galad said. "Well my friends, I think that that is the path to take. Any questions?" He asked.
Inevitably, one of the three Arnorian nobles made an unwise comment. This time it was Thandal.
"Why do we delay so? Gondor is fighting a war and we speak of spending years here?" He said with a tact that rivalled Celedaih's efforts sometimes. Even Isildur looked pained which was surely a bad sign.
Elendil glared at the baron. "Have you not heard that has been said Baron Thandal? This needs to be a unified army before it can march. We must see to our allies before we can even consider leaving. That means at least a year so they have time to assemble and then more to march south."
Thandal looked like arguing the point but Fedallais unexpectedly came to his king's aid. "Baron Thandal, you would not have us march into battle unready would you?" He asked and the baron, looking hurt that he had been betrayed by his friend nodded finally.
Gil-Galad had wisely kept out of the argument but now spoke soothingly. "Do not think that we discard your sentiments baron. We shall never do that. Your concerns are legitimate and have been oft considered. I think however we must take the risk and wait at least until our allies have decided." The baron looked into the eyes of the elf king for a moment and then nodded. If the baron was totally honest, now he had met more of the Eldar, he had found them to be better than many men of similar rank.
"Then that is settled. Is there anything else?" Gil-Galad asked and Glorfindel nodded.
"Lord king, what are your plans for training and unification?" The High Captain asked and Gil-Galad nodded.
"A good question." He said to give himself time. He had wondered about this. The probability of the two armies mixing of their own accord was unlikely in the extreme. It would take only one word to start a riot. In military ranks, long marching and danger would be a far better tool. The High General of the alliance nodded at the silent crowd.
"Only through adversity and danger can they learn to trust one another which all of you know is the best and only quality of a soldier. Simple co-operation is not enough. The two armies must trust each other." He ignored the looks from his two more disagreeable subordinates. "Therefore, by elven company and division the forces shall march together and even fight. It will give commanders experience. I know it has been many centuries since most of my company commanders have drawn a sword in anger." He said, tactfully not mentioning the human armies' lack of experience.
"I agree." Elendil said. "The army will have to be used to long marches and danger so it had best start now."
"Excellent, we are agreed then." Ereinion Gil-Galad said. "Anything else?"
There was no response and the two kings rose as one.
"Be on your way my friends. You will receive your orders as soon as they are written." Gil-Galad said and the commanders before him saluted. Elendil bowed and left with his son. Gil-Galad called out to Valentai who was expecting to stay anyway.
"Lord Valentai, stay a moment if you would." He said courteously and called to Linados at the door. "Linados, would you find Ambassador Tiraldórë and have him sent up here?" He asked and the elf bodyguard nodded.
Maelius stayed and bowed to Gil-Galad who smiled at him.
"Antunius?" He asked and the man bowed again nervously.
"Please excuse Thandal I beg. He was never a supporter of this alliance and-" He began and Gil-Galad held up his hand with a smile.
"Maelius, Maelius." He said gently. "If you have noticed, I have two of my High Captains who feel the same way." The Archduke nodded.
"I am sorry lord king. I hate to see ingratitude in those under my command." He said and Elrond smiled to Valentai.
"There is no need to apologise Antunius. In time our two races may learn to become friendlier. With people like you though, that will be an easier job than it appears." He said warmly and the man bowed.
"You flatter me lord king. I will talk to you shortly." He said and walked out of the room.
When Keldoräth had closed the door, the elf king smiled at Valentai.
"He is a good man. He will be a great man one day if he survives this war. When the king dies it will be he who must fulfil his role of regent."
"With Nantaris." Valentai said and the son of Fingon nodded.
"Indeed. Now, Valentai, have you decided?" He asked and the hero nodded.
"I have lord king; I will take your offer."
"I hoped you would say that. I would not force you but I am sure you can see the advantages." Valentai nodded. "Then you will leave in three days. You ride with an escort to the dwarf mansions of Khazard-Dûm. Then, you either gain passage through the mines or otherwise over the mountains to Lórinand. I then ask you to return whilst Tiraldórë continues to Greenwood."
Elrond put in for his king. "The reason is two-fold Lord Valentai. First, you will be needed here and beyond that." Elrond smiled. "Oropher is not a friend of men. He is like Maeldin in that regard at least."
"If he joins us he must fight alongside them." Valentai pointed out.
"Maybe. Remember though that he dislikes me as well." Gil-Galad said. "He will join the alliance out of need, not out of desire."
"I see. Do you want me to negotiate or do I let Tiraldórë handle that?" He asked and the two Eldar lords looked at each other.
"Put in as you see fit Valentai. I know you know what to do and when. You will not have much trouble from Lórinand. The lord and lady rule there and have done since the war of Eregion. The old king and his son Amdir and Amroth were slain in that war and they took over the land because they were now landless and it was offered to them. You will also meet Súlimë. The third oldest elf alive. He will doubtless be their commander and he is one of the best fighters in the world." Gil-Galad finished and Valentai nodded.
"I have heard much of them. I will do as you wish." He said and then turned as the door opened to reveal Tiraldórë who looked a little flustered. His shirt was askew slightly, suggesting he had been given less than a moment's notice.
"Just woken up ambassador?" Elrond asked sweetly and the elf tried to straighten his tunic.
"No lord regent. I was not prepared for such a summons." He said and Linados added helpfully.
"He was enjoying breakfast." The three lords tried to contain their amusement as Linados left the room. The ambassador coloured slightly. Before he could apologise, Gil-Galad got back to business.
"Tiraldórë, Lord Valentai will be going with you to the dwarf realm and to Lórinand. He has agreed though to let you see Oropher alone."
Tiraldórë muttered something that was probably not diplomatic.
"Now, now Tiraldórë, that is not polite." Valentai said happily and the elf frowned again.
"We must find you an escort commander and some suitable troops." Gil-Galad said, trying to keep the meeting on track.
"I would have suggested Lauronwë but he will have too much to do as commander of cavalry." Elrond put in and the two lords frowned.
"There is always his second in command, Alderána." Tiraldórë said.
Gil-Galad nodded thoughtfully. "I suppose there is. She is second in command though. You could be away for a long while."
"We can choose to exercise the heavy cavalry under Lauronw's personal command until she returns." Elrond said and the High King finally nodded.
"Fine, she will go with you. Take twenty cavalry and be ready to leave the day after tomorrow. Valentai, do you want to tell her?" He asked and Valentai nodded.
"If you give me a written order I will go now." Valentai said and Gil-Galad nodded and swiftly wrote down the message, dried the ink with sand and handed it over.
"Good luck Valentai, and to you as well Tiraldórë. I think you will need it when you come before Oropher."
The elf bowed and Valentai nodded and left the room. After their footsteps had faded and Linados and Keldoräth had come to stand outside the door, Elrond looked to Gil-Galad.
"So why is he really going?" He asked and his mentor smiled mysteriously.
"I think you will learn that in time my friend." He said gnomically. He stood and looked at Elrond, his mood becoming lighter again. "Besides, I was not lying when I said it would be good for him to try his hand at diplomacy. Now, I had best return to my room, or Vallari's room at least."
Elrond smiled, Vallarië had the second largest room after his in Imladris and it was much grander. The High King had commandeered it and Vallarië had not been impressed by the move.
"Til tomorrow lord king." Elrond said and slowly walked up the stairs.