Part 2 of Walking the Path
Disclaimer: Just a reminder I do not own any part of JK Rowling's or JRR Tolkien's great works. This piece of fiction garners neither profit nor ownership.
A/N – Just picked up a spelling error in previous chapters – Isengard should be Isengard. My shameful error has now been fixed in this chapter. Thanks for the PM's pointing it out.
Last time:
"Why then have you done this?"
"I needed a messenger and you will serve admiringly as such," he replied and place a sealed scroll case on the rough-hewn table. "I wish this message delivered to Isengard. Don't worry it is simply a message and will cause no harm."
The elf maid tilted her head her expression puzzled, "Then why this subterfuge?"
Ah, a thinker. What a waste that she was so irrevocably tied to the light. Kale appreciated smart people no matter their gender or race. "Because my dear I wish to make a point
Chapter 4 – School is in
Isengard
It had been nearly a month since Brada was presented with her staff and joined the students in the tower. Now the library of Isengard was finally becoming the classroom Harry and Luna had envisioned.
It was in the library that Maglor taught about the history Middle Earth, the Elves and the Valar. It was where Harry and Luna taught the theory of magic and what magical lore of the Valar they deemed to be appropriate for their students. Azanath taught the others of the Sorceries of the enemy so that they could counter them and it was here where the more occasional students like Tirith, Gandalf and his fellow wizard Radagast the Brown came to learn what lore their duties allowed them. Indeed, visitors to Isengard would see some spectacular sights just walking the grounds as new spells were tested in what Harry dubbed the 'firing range'.
In the town, the new craft schools were erecting the first buildings of what Harry hoped would one day be a centre of learning open to all beings. The first dwarven master smiths to arrive in Isengard could be seen conversing with their human and elven colleagues as they discussed the potential layout of their new forges. In a way, that discussion amongst the master craftsmen was a metaphor for all of Isengard. It was a community built on cooperation rather than race.
Harry was reflecting on the recent changes as he led a procession of witches and wizards from the tower into town. Today was the seventh day and therefore market day and Luna insisted he, as Lord of Isengard should be present. He had to admit that it wasn't an onerous duty. Trying baked goods from the local baker or maybe giving his opinion on the weight and weave of a bolt of linen and most important of all taking the time to talk to all those who approached him.
It was also an opportunity for all the towers residents to interact with the people of the town. Luna, in particular, enjoyed walking the town with Selene. Mother and daughter would stop investigate anything that took their interest. Luna seemed determined that Selene experience as much as possible. It was also Brada's first outing as a student of the tower. Harry glanced over to where the young witch was walking with Ayrica. She seemed to be settling in well and appeared to have struck up a tentative friendship with the other girl.
His thoughts were interrupted when he heard a loud voice calling out, "My Lord!"
Harry turned to see Hillath the builder. The short, stocky man was waving him over.
"My Lord, we have….well it may be best if you look for yourself," Hillath gestured toward one of the newly refurbished buildings.
Harry gestured and was led into where half a dozen young men and two dwarves were standing around a hole in the floor. From the equipment, it appeared that they had been laying flagstones.
Hillath gestured toward the group, "The lads were just putting the finishing touches on the building for the crafters competition. They pulled up a flagstone and found this." In the middle of the floor, a dark hole could be seen.
Harry looked into the hole and whistled softly before turning to one of the young men, "Please go and ask the Lady Luna and the others to join me here."
oOoOoOo
Minas Tirith
Tirith parried a thrust from Prince Imrahil with his sword and then feinted with a counter as a disguise for a quick thrust with his off-hand parrying dagger. The Prince, however, was more than capable of denying such an easy win. He spun like a dancer to avoid the dagger as his buckler swung upwards striking Tirith in the face and driving him back a step.
"Hooray Uncle, he got you that time Tirith!" called out Boromir from his place on the training ground steps.
Tirith chuckled as he sheathed his dagger then his sword. "You my young Lord should be with your tutor, should you not?"
"Aye, but I found him beset by ants," replied Boromir with a straight face ruined by his lips fighting to form a smile.
"Ants you say?" Prince Imrahil asked in a flat tone.
Tirith gave the young boy a disbelieving look as he unbuckled and removed his helmet, "Good try Boromir. In the future, I'd suggest losing the smile."
Imrahil sighed, loudly. Boromir was a good boy, but some fool had been filing the boys head with stories of pranks. He had been hoping to send his wards to study for a time in Isengard but this sort of behaviour. He was about to berate his young charge for once more escaping his lessons when a soft laugh sounded.
All three turned to see Lady Ivriniel who had just walked up behind Boromir, "It would appear I have found our young truant. Come, nephew, your brother and tutor search the tower for you."
"Ah, Aunt Niel I was…I was…" Boromir trailed off as his Aunt continued to stare at him.
"You were?" prompted Ivriniel.
Boromir appeared to decide to give his story up as a bad idea and fell back to complaining, "It's boring auntie all his lessons are boring. History this and herb lore that. I want to be a soldier of Gondor."
Tirith laughed and walked over to kneel in front of Boromir, "I understand Boromir, I really do, but I think you are forgetting something."
Boromir looked up at his uncle's guard captain and tilted his head in puzzlement.
Tirith gestured at Prince Imrahil, "His Highness is a great leader of men and a great warrior. He is also a scholar who has studied much of what makes up your lessons. He has done this because you never know what knowledge you will need in your life. A wise man accumulates as much as he can."
Boromir nodded and Prince Imrahil held out a hand to pull the young boy to his feet, "Come nephew. I'll walk you back to your lessons and I'll share some stories and you can judge for yourself the wisdom in my captain's words."
As the Prince and his young charge made their way up the stone steps, a chuckling Tirith removed his gauntlets and began to unbuckle the straps for his vambraces.
"You have a way with children Captain," said Ivriniel with a smile.
Tirith inclined his head in acknowledgement of the words. "I fear that may be the case," he replied with a smile.
Ivriniel frowned for a moment before laughing, "Oh so it was you that has been corrupting my nephews. I'll have you know captain that the boy's poor tutor is after blood. It seems that his room is infested with ants. Somehow he has reached the conclusion that the boys released them during the night."
Tirith smiled, "Ah such a dastardly deed seems beyond the ken of such young minds."
Ivriniel shook her head, "Hmmm you know I should say something here about responsibility and such but the image of their pompous tutor dancing around brushing of ants. Well it has its…..attraction," with that she graced him with a final smile before turning and walking back up the steps her hips swaying in her fitted dress. At the top, she glanced back over her shoulder to see Tirith still staring up the stairs.
oOoOoOo
Half an hour's work saw the hole expanded to reveal a broad stairwell descending into what appeared to be man made sub-level. Harry gathered several armed guards and stationed them on the stairs while he and the other residents of the tower decided on a plan of action.
Harry would lead Azanath and Maglor along with two guards into the underground area while Luna and the other magic users would stand ready to aid them should they need it.
An hour after they descended the scouting party returned with exciting news. The underground area appeared to be an armory that had lain undisturbed for a long time. Maglor speculated that the weapons were likely to be Númenórean based on their design.
"Could it be the original armory for the tower?" asked Luna as she examined a long slender blade.
Maglor nodded as he studied the blade in Luna' hands, "Quite possibly, as far as I know Gondor sealed Orthanc in the third age. These armaments and this stonework, however, date back to when the men of Númenór first built the tower. It's truly a remarkable find."
Harry nodded as he considered what to do before turning to Azanath, "Azanath please see if you can find the master smiths. I think we had best leave a more detailed search to their men."
The Smiths arrived and were shown the large collection of arms. The Human, Elven and Dwarven smiths were soon engrossed in the collection and were somewhat reluctant to be pulled away from the dusty racks.
After speaking to the Master Smiths Harry left the further investigation of the armoury in their hands, "Although I'll expect a report soon, as well as your opinion on the quality of the equipment."
"Give us a day or two my lord," replied the dwarven smith. "I think Lord Maglor is right with his dates. These are old and I must say in rather an excellent condition."
One of the human smiths laughed quietly, "T'is an unexpected find the building above must have been barracks of some such. My lads are terrified they've been tomb robbing. "
oOoOoOo
"An exciting day," offered Luna as she sat with Selene in her lap. They were imply enjoying the pleasant afternoon as they waited for the communities communal meal to be served. Tonight there would be no rank as the residents of Isengard came together to share a meal. Harry had needed to put his foot down on the issue, but he had managed to stop the townsfolk building him a raised dais from which to hold court.
Harry passed Luna a slice of apple, "Well at least it was a good surprise. Those weapons mean that we can, if needed see everyone armed, unless Gondor demands them back of course."
"We could always sell them," replied Luna before she popped the apple in her mouth.
Harry shook his head, "Hmmm money is one of the problems on the horizon."
Luna nodded, "I know Maglor ran me through the finances last week. We need to come up with a reliable means to make money. Right now we're relying on the goodwill of the council for anything beyond what we produce on our own."
Harry cut another slice of apple for Luna, "I know love, our treasury isn't all that deep but it's not a disaster. Perhaps we need to get the others thinking about it. Trade is just starting to pick up and once the day student program begins and the trade schools get up and running…..I think we'll be okay. We do still have some of Saruman's ill-gotten plunder; we may as well use it for the good of the community."
"What about a…Gandalf has just apparated into the tower," warned Luna as she felt her wards shiver.
Harry stood but held up his hand to stop Luna when she went to follow. "No, stay love, no need for you to miss out on the night. Odds are Gandalf has a message from the council." Harry gave Selene a wave and apparated away.
oOoOoOo
Harry appeared in the library to find Gandalf studying the large map of Arda on the wall.
Harry smiled and greeted the elder wizard with a friendly nod, "Hello Gandalf."
Gandalf's inclined his head to acknowledge the friendly greeting, "Greetings to you my friend but alas I fear the pleasantries must wait for I find myself the bearer of worrying news."
Harry gestured for Gandalf to take a seat in one of the comfortable chairs near the window. With a gesture, the shutters opened letting in the last of the afternoon light as he joined the elder wizard.
"Just after dawn this morning Lord Elrond received a message from King Thranduil. An elf-maid had approached him with a disturbing story of how she had been overpowered by several assailants and then abducted. Her attackers then gave her a message to deliver before they returned her to Thranduil's Hall by an unknown means." As he finished speaking, he handed Harry a sealed scroll.
Harry took the scroll, "This is the message?"
Gandalf nodded, "I checked both it and the seal for magic, but I can't sense anything. It is apparently simply a scroll addressed to the Wizard of Isengard."
Harry summoned his staff and cast his own detection spells that also revealed nothing, "I can't detect anything either."
"Perhaps we should open it?" suggested Gandalf.
With a wave of his staff, Harry raised a small localised shield around the letter and cracked the seal. When nothing happened, he gently unrolled the scroll. The message written within was in a fair hand in the graceful elvish script. A fact he acknowledged even as he began reading.
Lord Potter of Isengard,
With your ingenious blockade of Mordor in place, my former master is taken out of the game. At least until he finds a way past your trap. Until that day, I suggest a truce of sorts. I give my word that I will leave you and yours alone if you will extend the same courtesy to my followers.
You may deliver your reply to my agent Fuzar who shall be awaiting you atop Amon Sûl for two days and nights.
Kale Lord of Angmar
Harry passed the scroll to Gandalf and sat back to watch him read it.
"An unforeseen development," said Gandalf as he lowered the note.
Harry frowned and gestured at the scroll, "Lord of Angmar no less, this Kale doesn't lack courage. I would expect that the Nazgûl would be less than impressed with his presumption."
Gandalf sat back into the comfortable chair, "It is not a matter for jest Harry. If he has indeed established himself in Angmar, he will no doubt become a rallying point for the dark and a threat to the northern realms."
Harry inclined his head acknowledging Gandalf's point, "You are right of course my friend, but a handful of wizards does not an army make."
Gandalf leaned forward, "Do you think he will long remain so? Not all the evils of Mordor are contained behind your warding. No doubt the enemy has countless spies and worse wandering middle earth. No, this Kale is a threat and one we should heed."
"What do you make of his offer?" asked Harry.
Gandalf considered the question as he stroked his beard, "I think the offer made with the use of an abducted elf-maid is designed to show you that he can get to you regardless of where you are. As to his reasons for inviting a meeting that alas I cannot say."
Harry made a gesture and reached out with his mind touching Luna's and wordlessly requesting her presence, "I've summoned Luna. I'll want a plan in place before I even consider meeting this envoy."
oOoOoOo
"I think we should do it," said Luna quietly.
Harry looked over at his wife seeking an explanation as she smiled serenely at the two wizards, "It's sure to be a ploy of some sort but even from that we may learn something of value. If nothing else we may be able to validate some of the things in his message."
"It would be foolish to go alone," cautioned Gandalf.
Luna nodded, "He didn't mention any requirements just a timeframe. I at least will be accompanying you. I'd suggest Azanath as well. He knew this Kale and he is a good judge of men and their motivations."
"And all three of us can just apparate out if needed," mused Harry.
"All four, I think it wise that I get a look at this Kale," added Gandalf.
oOoOoOo
They had been waiting for nearly two hours and it was only the judicious use of warming charms that had made it even vaguely pleasant.
"This would be an utterly vile place to live," said Luna as they stood amid the windswept ruins on Amon Sûl.
"I think people were stationed here as guards rather than tourists," Harry replied with a smile.
"Harry, Luna," warned Azanath as he pointed to the northern sky.
Flying toward them was a huge Raven perhaps five times the size of a natural specimen. The huge bird circled them once and then swept into land. After a moment, it seemed to shimmer and waver before transfiguring into a dark haired olive skinned man wearing a heavy black cloak. With a flourish, the man bowed to Harry.
"Lord Isengard I am Fuzar," the tome was respectful, but the eyes were cold and disdainful.
Harry acknowledged the courtesy with a slight nod, "I believe you are awaiting our reply."
"Lord Kale awaits your response on his offered truce," said Fuzar.
Harry frowned as he seemed to consider Fuzar's words, "A truce? I am somewhat at a loss as to why we would wish for a truce."
"Lord Kale believes a battle is inevitable once the dark lord escapes your trap. Till then why waste lives in a pointless conflict?" asked Fuzar.
"How humane of your Lord to think of our people, but it also occurs to me that such a truce would also give your people time to fortify and attract allies to your cause," said Harry maintaining eye contact with Fuzar even though he could see Luna casting some sort of spell in the background.
Kale's messenger seemed to not notice Luna. Throughout the conversation he had seemed unconcerned by the fact he was surrounded and simply returned Harry's stare, "Then you understand that we will do what we must to secure our survival."
Harry's expression hardened as "Tell your master that he would do better to go south and seek shelter amongst his master's allies. If he stays in the North he shall be setting himself against the Council of the free peoples. We will not suffer our enemies to establish a stronghold in the north."
Fuzar face twisted into a sneer, "You speak as if you can stop us."
"And you speak as if your master had already won by feat of arms," said Gandalf.
Fuzar turned his sneering visage toward Gandalf, "Be silent greybeard lest you invoke my masters wroth!"
"If your master fails to heed my warning then we shall see," replied Harry calmly.
Fuzar made no reply he spread his arms and transformed into his raven form. The huge raven flapped its wings twice and then launched itself into the air.
After watching the Raven until he was sure it wasn't returning Harry turned to Luna and raised an eyebrow.
Luna smiled, "You saw?"
Harry nodded, "I saw the movement but only just and I couldn't work out the spell."
"A tracker, I thought we might need confirmation that Kale is in Angmar," explained Luna.
Harry turned to look at Azanath, "Did you recognise him?"
Azanath shook his head, "No, but that doesn't mean all that much. Sorcerers were spread across Sauron's realm."
Gandalf frowned as he looked at the others, "It seemed like a pointless meeting he must have known we would never reach an agreement."
"Fuzar wasn't negotiating he was merely making a statement. What worries me is that I can't see why Kale bothered. He could have said everything in his damn scroll," said Harry with his own frown.
Luna seemed about to speak before her eyes turned silver and she staggered, "Harry the wards something has bypassed them."
"Where Luna?" asked Harry as he took her arm to steady her.
"Isengard….Rivendell…by the Valar they are passing the wards …everywhere," Luna shuddered and went limp in Harry's arms and he lowered her gently to the ground.
oOoOoOo
Isengard
Maglor was talking Brada and Ayrica through an ancient elvish tome on the creation of Arda when a loud ringing noise began. Immediately Maglor stood and crossed over to a cabinet and pulled out a long elvish sword in an elaborate scabbard. Pulling out a second sword he passed it to Ayrica.
"Summon your staves and we must see to the defences. Ayrica you are with me. Brada find Miriel and stay with her and Selene in the tower. Their safety is your responsibility."
"Master, have you another blade?" asked Brada.
Maglor turned to the younger girl his eyes assessing her for a moment before passing her a sword as well;"You've been trained?"
Brada expertly buckled the sword to her left hip and then made a gesture summoning her staff, "My father saw to my instruction."
Maglor nodded, "Go then and keep them safe."
Brada nodded and ducked out the door.
Maglor unsheathed his sword and gestured for Ayrica to follow him as he headed for the stairs. They both knew that the ward alarm would have seen the citizens of Isengard gathering arms and gathering near the tower. Once they reached them, they would have a large force of experienced warriors on hand to face the threat to the people of Isengard.
oOoOoOo
Brada arrived at Harry and Luna's room just as Miriel was walking out with Selene in a sling. The elf-maid was carrying a long dagger that was almost a short sword.
Miriel paused as she spotted Brada, "What is happening?"
Brada gestured toward the library, "Master Maglor has taken Ayrica and gone to find out. He wanted me to stay here and help you protect Selene."
"Where would be safest?" asked Miriel.
Brada considered the question for a moment before deciding it would be safer to seek out Miriel's room, "We'll barricade ourselves into your room."
oOoOoOo
Maglor with Ayrica at his side made it to the assembly point near the centre of the village just as a rider from the gates reined in. Seeing the two residents of the tower, he dismounted and passed his reins to another man and rushed over.
"Lord Maglor, my lady there's nothing to be seen at the gate. Torgen and I have been on duty since midmorning we've seen nothing. We heard the alarm and Torgen sent me riding in after we closed the gates."
"Perhaps a false alarm?" suggested Ayrica.
Despite the lack of any visible enemies, Maglor was feeling uneasy. Luna had been very clear about the intent based wards she had placed around Isengard. "Search the town and be careful we have no idea what caused the alarm so take no risk and assume nothing."
Within moments groups or armed townsmen were checking buildings. Several elves had strung their bows and were keeping a close watch on the children and unarmed women gathering in the open square.
One of the younger men came jogging over, "Lord Maglor, everyone is here ain't no one missing we can see. Well, save some of the lads out hunting."
"Perhaps they were simply testing the wards?" Maglor mused. He turned to speak to Ayrica but found her staring at Orthanc.
"Master…..is that smoke?"
Maglor looked up at the tower and spotted the smoke, "By the Valar…Get some men together and follow us. I fear we have enemies in the tower. Ayrica, take us back to the library."
oOoOoOo
Zanuther almost laughed as the Elf and the young witch passed him on the stairs. It appeared that Kale's stealth spells were holding up well. His mission was simple; destroy as much of the tower as he could. He also had orders to abduct or failing that to kill any young children in the tower.
With a flick of his blackened steel rod he cast a fire spell at any item he deemed flammable. Kale had warned him that he had less than an hour to complete his mission.
As he set fires, he quickly realised that the tower was deserted which suited his main mission perfectly but meant he wasn't likely to find his secondary targets.
He was about to head to the next level when he heard a child cry out. Smiling grimly he pulled a long dagger from his hip sheath and moved toward the door. A simple unlocking spell failed so he took the most expedient route and tried to kick the door in.
oOoOoOo
Brada watched the door as Miriel tried to keep Selene quiet. So far nothing had disturbed them. Brada was about to ask if Miriel had any water when she smelled smoke.
"Miriel open your window I think there is a fire."
Miriel nodded and opened the window. Alone on the bed Selene cried loudly before Miriel picked her up. Almost immediately there was a thump on the door followed by another. Brada thanked the Valar that she had the foresight to barricade the door. She certainly didn't know any spells to seal the door.
Her slight relief changed quickly to concern as she noticed an increase in the smoke. As she looked, she could see that the bottom of the door had begun to smoulder.
oOoOoOo
Zanuther knew time was growing short so with a dark smile he cast several more fire spells. His couldn't get them with his blade, but the fire or the smoke would work just as well.
oOoOoOo
Ayrica transported Maglor directly into the Library itself. The room was smoky, but the library looked undamaged. Moving quickly they made their way through the tower. Ayrica was creating streams of water putting out fires as they passed. Maglor, however, was peering through the smoke haze looking for any hint of an enemy. Whilst not magical Maglor was far from powerless, he was one of the firstborn and he had come to his adulthood in Aman. When he chose, he could cast his perceptions into the other realm. Little could escape the sight of a powerful Elder when they were actively looking.
Maglor paused as they approached the living quarters, "Ayrica, up ahead there are three no four living creatures…..I think…there are three in a room and one outside. It's definitely our people in the room. The one outside has an unwholesome feel."
Ayrica nodded and passed Maglor her sword. With a gesture, she cast a disillusionment spell on herself. "I'll go, Master, although I'd appreciate it if you would come when I call out." The last was added with a faint smile.
Maglor frowned as he passed Ayrica her sword back. Reaching out he touched her shoulder," Be careful."
Ayrica held her staff in her left hand and her sword in her right as she moved slowly down the corridor. Ahead she could see smoke but nothing else. If there was someone there they were well concealed by whatever magic they were using. Still there were ways around that.
With another gesture, Ayrica conjured a stream of blue ink. Her spell was a variation of the more common water conjuring spell that Luna had been exploring with her. It worked spectacularly well. The blast of ink splattered against the walls and clearly outlined a humanoid figure. The figure seemed to be trying to clear ink from its eyes when Ayrica flicked her staff sending a banishing hex that slammed the intruder into the stone wall.
Ayrica conjured ropes around the lumped figure and then cast a stunner to make sure.
"Our intruder I presume," said Maglor as he hurried up to her side.
Ayrica nodded and quickly conjured a stream of water to put out the smouldering door and the other fires burning in the corridor. Maglor, however, was already knocking on the charred door.
"Its Maglor are you all alright?"
Maglor breathed a sigh of relief as he heard Brada's voice.
"We are all fine Master although it may take me a little bit to clear the door."
Before he could answer there was a displacement of air as Harry appeared outside his quarters, "Maglor what happened?"
"At least one intruder somehow got through the wards," replied Maglor with a gesture to the figure still against the far wall.
"Selene?" asked Harry his fear for his daughter showing in his eyes.
Maglor smiled and gestured at the door, "Brada has her safe."
Harry took a deep breath and then exhaled relief evident on his face. "Can you secure the tower?"
Maglor nodded, "I believe so."
Harry nodded again as Ayrica joined them, "Good then do so. I have to get going we have the wards being breached everywhere. See to everyone's safety."
As soon as he finished speaking he cast a glance at Miriel's door before disappearing with a faint pop of displaced air.
oOoOoOo
Minas Tirith - Gondor
Prince Imrahil was talking with Lord Westhal the master of the treasury as they walked toward the council chambers when he felt something grow warm against his chest. His hand shot up to feel the silver amulet tied to the wards just as a loud ringing noise sounded throughout the white tower. With a whispered curse, he turned looking for Tirith and saw his guard captain, sword in hand scanning the large hall. Behind him, the Tower Guards were drawing their own blades.
Imrahil didn't hesitate, "Tirith, see to Boromir and Faramir. Guards with me, we have to get to the Tower gate."
Tirith nodded and gripped his sword tightly before disappearing.
"What…what just happened?" asked a wide-eyed Lord Westhal.
Imrahil gestured for a guard to come forward, "Escort his lordship to the council chambers and order the watch officer start patrols." Turning to Westhal he gestured to where Tirith had been standing moments ago. "Captain Tirith has some unusual skills. Now please my lord let the guards get you to safety."
Westhal nodded and followed the designated guard toward the Council of Lord chamber.
Imrahil didn't waste any more time on the departing man. "Right we need to secure the gate and then get every city gate closed. Once we've sealed the seven circles we sweep the entire tower. If we need to, we will search the entire city circle by damn circle."
"My Lord, what will we be looking for?" asked the senior guard.
Imrahil drew his own blade, "I fear that we will have to let our enemies make the first move."
oOoOoOo
Tirith appeared in the corridor outside the Prince Imrahil's quarters. There was nothing in sight, but his senses were screaming that something was wrong. Still his duty was clear. Eyes scanning the corridor he moved as quickly and quietly as he could toward the room the boys shared. He had almost reached the door when he noticed a blood stain on the floor. Well, that explained the lack of guards.
When he reached the boys door, he found it slightly ajar. As he hugged the wall trying to determine what was happening, he could hear muffled voices. Using his left hand, he slowly pushed the door open till he could see into the room. In the far corner, Lady Ivriniel was standing in front of her nephews protecting them from a figure holding a bloodied sword.
"…..please take me as a hostage they are just boys."
The figure didn't answer verbally instead raising his sword. That was enough for Tirith. Raising his own sword, he pointed it and cast the stunning spell Harry had taught him. Seeing a streak of red light he didn't wait for it to strike the intruder . Instead he charged directly at him. If the spell failed, he would take the man down physically.
For Tirith, time slowed down. He saw his spell splash against an unseen shield a moment before he physically crashed into his opponent sending them both to the ground. He landed heavily atop the man losing the grip on his sword as his hand slammed into the floor.
His opponent had somehow managed to half turn keeping his blade free. The man attacked slashing at his face forcing him to throw himself to the side. His opponent's blade lanced out at him trying to run him through. Instead of rolling away he caught the thrusting sword between his body and arm. Trusting his armor to protect him from the blade he lashed out with his fist striking his opponent across the face driving his head backward. Then he struck again and again.
"Tirith!" called a voice as time returned to normal.
oOoOoOo
Lady Ivriniel heard the sound of an alarm and moved quickly to get the boys back to their room. She had just got them back and ordered their escort to guard the door when a scream, abruptly cut off sounded somewhere down the corridor.
The guard flinched, "Stay here my lady and lock the door." He pulled the door closed and Ivriniel quickly locked it.
"What's going on Aunty Ivriniel?" asked Faramir.
"Quiet boys," whispered Ivriniel.
Then there came sound of blades clashing right outside the door. Then silence. Cursing she pulled the boys behind her. After a long silent moment, the door crashed open. The black-clad figure that entered just looked around the room, before slowly advancing on her.
"You will never escape the tower."
The man continued to advance toward them.
"I can be your way out, please take me as a hostage they are just boys."
The figure raised his bloody sword and suddenly there was a flash of red light and the man was struck from behind and sent crashing to the floor. Ivriniel staggered back a step as the guards sword slid across the floor. She watched in shock as the guard avoided a lightning fast slash. Then he trapped the opponent's blade to his side and crashed his fist into the assassins face…..again….and again. Then she realised the guard was Tirith and he had an alarming amount of blood running down his side.
Hesitant to approach Ivriniel called out to him, "Tirith…..enough he is defeated."
Tirith appeared to slowly come back to himself. Shakily he stood and walked over to pick up his sword. As he bent down, he winced and felt his side. His hand came away bloody.
"Oh bugger," he muttered as he collapsed to the floor.
oOoOoOo
Prince Imrahil reached the main door to the White Tower just as Gandalf appeared with a crack of thunder.
"Gandalf!" exclaimed Imrahil before sliding to a halt. "The wards have been breached."
"Aye and we must find out what has bypassed them but later. For now we should see to the defence of the White Tower."
oOoOoOo
Edoras - Rohan
Prince Théodred was walking through the feast hall toward his father's private rooms, newly repaired hunting spear in hand when a loud ringing noise sounded. Remembering his cousins warning the about the magical alarm. The alarm sounded when something that sought his people harm had crossed the magical line around the realm. Should he summon the guard or….his musing was interrupted when a man appeared in front of him right where a barrel had been standing. The black-clad newcomer staggered and then touched something on his belt. The man then started to shimmer and fade even as he drew out a sword.
An assassin! In his father's throne room no less. He had to act fast. With practiced ease, he hefted his spear and loosed it at the rapidly fading figure.
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Rivendell
Elrond Half-Elven was walking with Glorfindel when he felt his pendant growing heavy and warm as the wards activated.
"Tell everyone to gather in the gardens and then gather our warriors and marshal them in the courtyard," ordered Elrond. His old friend nodded and ran toward the main building.
Elrond began jogging toward his son's quarters when they came the other way. Elladan and Elrohir were both buckling their sword belts. Elrohir spotted his father first and called out. The twins jogged over and Elladan passed his father his sword.
"Elrohir find your sister and protect her. Elladan, help Glorfindel begin a search of the valley and be careful we don't know what has happened. I will lead the search of the buildings."
As Elrond issued his orders Faneir from his household staff ran down the stairs into the garden. "Lord Elrond the Istari Luna of Isengard has arrived in the council chamber."
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Elrond watched as Luna cast a number of spells.
"Okay I think I've worked out what they've done to get around the wards," said Luna. Taking a deep breath, she shut her eyes and made a sweeping gesture with her staff. I response a pulse of light lit up the room for a moment before fading.
"I can sense another magical signature…..near the main building….. now it is in the main wing." Luna's eyes snapped open. "Arwen it is in her quarters."
Elrond almost staggered at the news he was about to say something to Luna when she disappeared with a loud crack.
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Arwen heard the ward alarm immediately went and got her sword Hadhafang from its place on the wall. It once belonged to her ancestor Princess Idril of Gondolin and had come to her via her father. Moving quickly she slung its baldric over her shoulder. She was just about to leave kick her soft slippers off when the door opened.
"Arwen?" asked her brother Elrohir as he stuck his head in the door. Seeing her armed he frowned for a moment before entering.
Arwen kicked off her soft slippers and began pulling on a pair of calf high boots, "A moment and I will be ready."
"What are you doing?" asked Elrohir.
"Dressing appropriately," was the reply issued in a tone that didn't encourage discussion.
"Sister, father will be most upset if you turn up wearing a sword," warned Elrohir.
"Father will understand. Now where are we….." Arwen's eyes widened then narrowed at something behind her brother.
Elrohir turned and his sword swung up as he saw the black-clad figure in the doorway.
He was too slow.
The figure yelled a word in a language unknown to the two elves and Elrohir was thrown across the room to smash into the wall with bone shattering force.
Arwen stepped back as she drew her ancestor's sword.
The human smiled mockingly, "That won't save you Elf. My master wishes for you to die and so you shall die. It's your choice how you want it."
Arwen didn't reply save to raise her blade slightly.
The mocking smile didn't flicker, "Brave elf but let's see if you can use it." As he said it, he attacked with almost inhuman speed.
It was only her elven reflexes that saved her. Her opponent was incredibly fast and strong. With the stranger between her and the door, time was her only ally. She needed to survive until help arrived. Trying to keep as much room as possible between them she began to slowly back away.
"There is no escape Elf," hissed the stranger. He called out another spell and gestured with his sword.
Arwen felt herself go ridged as she lifted up off the ground. Horrified she summoned her strength and tried to move but to no avail. She could only watch as the man approached.
"Such a pity I'm not allowed to play with you first," said the sorcerer as he used his sword to lift her dress up and peer up it. "You look pretty enough to use more than once."
With a flick of his blade, he cut her thigh. Almost at once she could feel blood running down her leg. Then she felt the swords tip touch her womanhood.
He smiled cruelly at the motionless Arwen, "I was told to make an example of your death I think…"
He was interrupted as several things happened.
There was a loud crack and Luna appeared behind Arwen's attacker. He started to turn but was too slow to stop Luna's staff from touching his shoulder. If her arrival had been surprising what happened when her staff touched his shoulder was shocking.
And horrifying…..
Instantly the man screamed and began to convulse seemingly collapsing in on himself. After a few long moments of what appeared to be agonizing pain all that was left of him was a cockroach. The insect twitched on the floor for a moment before Luna scooped it up into a glass jar; which she promptly sealed before smiling up at Arwen.
"Let's get you down my Lady,"
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Edoras - Rohan
Azanath was prepared for battle as he appeared outside the Golden doors of the king's hall. The two guards recognized him and bowed.
"Wizard Azanath you had best go straight in," with that they opened the great golden doors and admitted him.
Azanath hurried in and was immediately spotted by Éomund. "Here is one who might know what to do. Azanath, over here man we have a pretty puzzle for you."
The King, Éomund, Prince Théodred and quite a few of his First éored were standing around a corpse pinned to the floor with what looked like a hunting spear.
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Orthanc – Isengard
The meeting of the leaders of the White Council of the Free Peoples was extraordinary in that it had been organized and conveyed within hours of the first attack.
Harry stood and waved for silence. "It appears that the sorcerers entered into the wards as inanimate objects. From Prince Théodred's description, it seems that the spells were set to end at a particular time."
Elrond frowned as he spoke, "The wards failed?"
Harry acknowledged the Elven Lord a quick bow, "Yes and no Lord Elrond. Whoever planned this was a genius. This was not something we even considered when Luna layered her wards. Believe me, it's something we are looking at right now. Luna assures me that it is something we can tweak the wards to stop in future."
"How soon?" asked Prince Imrahil.
"Within days," replied Harry.
Gandalf leaned back into the comfortable chair and took a sip of his wine, "How many people were killed or injured in the attacks?"
"Sadly six were killed in Rivendell and Minas Tirith. As to the wounded Luna has assured me that Elrohir, Arwen and Tirith will all recover," replied Harry.
"We were lucky, luckier than we had any right to be," added Azanath.
Harry nodded his expression serious, "The attacks were against specific targets Arwen, Boromir, Faramir and Selene. I'd suggest that if not Prince Théodred himself wasn't the target then it was probably one of his father's kin."
Elrond leaned forward addressing all those at the table, "This Kale is a fool to provoke us so. What does he gain from this but enmity?"
"And why inform us of his guilt and his location?" asked Maglor.
"Why indeed?" agreed Harry.