oOoOo
Chapter 11 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 claims ownership.
I must acknowledge that this chapter again diverges from canon – especially from the canon given in the Silmarillion, Unfinished Tales, Lost Tales and the various other works based on the Elder days.
Last Time:
Luna held her staff closer as she studied the writing, "Here await the lost in healing sleep."
"The lost?" asked Harry.
Luna frowned before lowering her staff to nearly touch the crystal and with her staff held close they could see a shadowy shape within.
"There is someone entombed within!" exclaimed Radagast.
"Entombed…perhaps but Melissë was a healer and Melian was well versed in ancient, lost lore," said Gandalf as he studied the shadowy shape. "I wonder…"
Without hesitation, he touched his staff to the crystal.
oOoOo
Aman – Lake of Lorellin
The Vala Estë sat with her feet in the lake of Lorellin. As was her want she had slept most of the day to awaken as the sun was setting.
This was her favourite time of the day. The sun's warmth was still present as the evening breeze played with strands of her long hair. Soon her servant Maia would arrive, and she would take up the mantle of her duties overseeing those that needed healing from either hurt or weariness.
"My lady," Estë turned to see her husband Lórien. "Lord Mandos has called our brethren together."
Estë rose to her feet and joined hands with her husband as they made their way to the great circle where the open councils were held. Even as they approached she could feel the host of Ainur gathered there, both Maia and Vala alike. Soon they had taken their place among the Valar, of whom only Ulmo was absent as was his want.
Mandos stood and surveyed the gathered Valar and Maiar, "We address this council so that certain matters may be laid to rest and so that all shall know of these deeds. By the power of Ilúvatar, I have been given to know much of what shall be. However, only he knows all that shall be, and there are times when knowledge of deeds unknown and unlooked for are revealed. Themes in the great song that were not headed or revealed. Today have such deeds been laid at my feet for judgement," Mandos sat, and Manwë stood.
"All here know that our envoys have been in Middle Earth restoring the magic to the children of First and Secondborn. Giving them the strength and ability to fight the darkness. For long ages, we have watched as the darkness tried again and again to corrupt Arda and we have held back our hand lest we destroy what we love. It has been revealed to us that three of the Maia have weaved their own plots, and so we must judge them," Manwë gestured and Eönwë, Herald of Manwë, Chief of the Maiar led out three of his order.
The first two were well known, Melian and Uinen. Melian was renowned among the Maia and, along with her husband King Thingol had been the forbearers of many influential elves and men alike. Uinen was also a well-known figure. Known as the Lady of the Sea she was set high among the servants of Ulmo, Lord of Water. The last was a figure that had long been lost.
Estë took a half step forward and cried out in surprised joy, "Melissë!"
Melissë fell to her knees and looked at her mistress with tears in her eyes, "I have returned My Lady."
Estë stepped forward and gently pulled Melissë to her feet and into a tight embrace, "My friend, I feared you lost in the middle lands."
"I am afraid that I nearly was…there was so much pain. I almost lost myself," confessed Melissë as her tears fell.
"What is this pain you hold to you, sister? Let it go and find healing here among your brethren," counselled Estë. Indeed, the fëa of Melissë seemed diminished, almost shrouded in sorrow.
"I have left part of my heart in the middle lands," admitted Melissë tearfully, "My daughter."
Estë sighed as she stroked the Maia's hair and let her power flow. Soothing and comforting Melissë. That the Maia had a child, that the Valar were unaware of, was troubling. Not because of the child but because all such children usually had difficult lives. She gently pushed Melissë back so that she could look at her, "The father?"
"One of the first born…I hope to find him with his people," admitted Melissë.
"Come sister, to judge these three is why we are here," Manwë reminded Estë, who nodded and stepped back to stand beside her husband.
"Let us speak of this now," said Mandos. "Who is your daughter and how has she remained hidden from our sight?"
"Yes Lord Mandos, Goldberry she is now named, and she dwells still in the middle lands. She has cleaved to Taurë," explained Melissë.
Mandos frowned as Yavana stepped forward, "He still abides in the middle lands?"
"He was loathe to admit his identity, but in the end, he did so."
The Maia Taurë, servant of Yavana had been one of those feared lost back before the Firstborn had even come into the world. It had long been feared that he had been a victim of Morgoth even though Mandos had never confirmed or denied those fears. Yavana was predictably ecstatic to hear he had survived.
"Tell us all Melissë," commanded Manwë.
Both Melian and Uinen stepped up beside Melissë, who began to speak, "We three received a vision ere the fall of Beleriand. We knew not what it meant save that a task had been laid on us. We were to save three of the Children of Ilúvatar that would be needed in a later age. Their fëa and their bodies were to be healed that they might restore their lines and assist two envoys."
Uinen took up the tale, "We were vexed as the vision of Ilúvatar warned that they must remain hidden lest Melkor or his servants find them."
"And in their confusion they sought aid from the one Vala that still visited the middle lands," continued a deep voice as Ulmo appeared. For once the Lord of Water appeared in solid form. "I counselled them, and they prepared."
Melian's beautiful voice rang out as she stepped forward, "And I used my enchantments to hide our chosen ones and Melissë. It was through my power that Uinen and I had the information hidden from us until the right time."
Mandos stepped forward, "By your hand, you have meddled in the fates of the children of Ilúvatar, you denied them their appointed fate?"
"Yes," admitted Melissë.
"And you compounded these actions by having a child with one of the firstborn?" asked Manwë. His stern expression was somewhat leavened by the compassion in his eyes as he studied the Maia, "To forgive I must first know fully what you have done."
Melissë nodded, "We saved the three bloodlines and ere I returned to Aman I sent Olorin, Harry and Luna to them.
"I see," said Manwë as he shot Ulmo a look. "Did you three do this out of pride or to seek dominion?" asked Manwë.
All three shook their heads in denial as Melissë answered, "No my Lord."
"Did you think we would punish you for your compassion, your desire to preserve life? asked Varda as she stepped forward. "I may not have seen you, but I listened to your whispered words. Yours has been a hard road sister, but I doubt not that it was needed."
"The time then has come for you to reveal those you saved," said Varda.
oOoOo
As soon as the staff touched the crystal it faded away to reveal an Elf-maid clad in a forest green gown. Her long golden hair fell around her face obscuring it. As they watched, she took a shuddering breath and slowly opened her eyes.
"Túrin!" screamed the elf-maid as she tried to sit up. Luna attempted to restrain her, but there was a flash of white light and Luna was sent flying in to Gandalf.
Without waiting for anything else to go wrong Harry stunned her.
"Well that was painful," complained Luna as she climbed to her feet.
"As it was for me Luna," echoed Gandalf as he pulled himself up using his staff.
"Are you both alright?" asked Harry.
Luna and Gandalf nodded.
"Well, she is certainly a witch," said Harry.
"I wonder how long she has lain here?" asked Radagast.
"We shall figure that out later," said Harry. " I wonder if we will get the same reaction from the other two?"
"We cannot leave them here," argued Gandalf. "So we had best stun them else they hurt themselves."
"Or toss you about," added Radagast with a smile.
The next crystal held another woman. This one was a very tall young woman, perhaps in her late teens. She was dressed in homespun cloth with what looked to be a wolf pelt around her shoulders.
Gandalf peered at the young woman studying her features carefully before sighing, "Here is one I know by people if not by name. A Beorning woman from the Vales of Anduin. Much more I cannot say although her people may know more."
"Indeed, she has the look," added Radagast. "When we return I will seek out Beorn."
The last crystal held two young boys of no more than perhaps eight years of age. They were huddled together as if to sleep.
"Elves, well that is surprising," said Luna as she swept hair off the Elfling's ears.
"Astounding more like," replied Gandalf. "Elven children are precious, and twins such as these appear to be are doubly so. Lord Elrond and Maglor will no doubt be seeking their identity."
"What is that symbol?" asked Harry as he gently lifted a fine silver chain from around one of the Elflings necks. "It looks like a flower surrounded by a pattern of diamonds.."
"A symbol not seen since the first age," whispered Gandalf. "That of Doraith and the House of Thingol Greycloak."
"Well we have one witch, are we to assume that these are all wizards and witches?" asked Harry.
"Perhaps or simply folk Melissë saved. It is unfortunate that she did not share her motivations with us," lamented Gandalf.
"We should search this place and see if any other clues remain," said Harry.
A thorough search revealed little save some ancient dwarven inscriptions and more damaged stonework.
"I wonder if they always lay here or if Melissë moved them from some other land," mused Harry.
"Unless our new friends know we may never find out," said Luna.
"Come, my friends, we should return to Isengard and see to these poor people. I doubt that we shall solve any mysteries standing here wondering," said Radagast.
oOoOo
Perhaps only Gandalf had predicted the uproar their return would cause.
On their arrival back to Isengard Harry and Luna sent for Galadriel, Celeborn and Elrond. Radagast, however, went to talk to Beorn, leader of the Beornings.
Their resident Elven sage, Maglor was out riding so it was decided that leaving their four guests in magical slumber might be a kindness. At least, until their identities could be confirmed and any relatives found.
"We truly don't know when they are from do we?" asked Luna.
Ayrica nodded, "Given that Melissë was a Maia and from what we know she has been in Middle Earth since the First Age. They could have been taken yesterday or Millennia ago."
"Well let's hope that the Elves can help us," said Luna.
The first to arrive was Gandalf with Elrond, then Azanath with Galadriel and Celeborn. In the midst of the greetings, Maglor appeared having been alerted by Brada's Patronus that he was required.
"I believe that we have a mystery," said Maglor after bowing to the gathered guests. "Pardon my attire, I was out riding."
"One that I hope you can help us with," said Harry.
Once the tale was told the elves had exchanged glances before Galadriel cleared her throat. "I admit that I am astonished that our mysterious figure was Lady Melissë. Although it explains her ability to put others into a healing sleep. In the undying lands, she was known for her skills." Galadriel's eyes grew distant and sad for a moment. "I knew Melian quite well and given her powers I am not surprised that she was able to hide Melissë away."
"To dwell in Middle Earth for all these long years without the wise knowing," said Celeborn with a thoughtful look on his ageless face. "To me, that speaks of some larger, grand purpose. It rings true that she saw your coming and sort to prepare your guests."
"Perhaps their identities will make matters clear," said Elrond. "That two are Elven children intrigues me. There have been too many children lost to us. Perhaps their families may be found."
"Then let us look on them," said Galadriel.
On walking in to the first room containing the sleeping twins Galadriel and Celeborn both gave small gasps and Maglor paled and gripped the door frame.
"By the Valar," whispered Galadriel as she reached out to stroke the faces of the sleeping children, "It cannot be!"
Celeborn, however, reached out to take the flower pendant one wore, "Nimloth…and the emblem of Thingol. It is them," he whispered sadly.
Galadriel sighed as she stood, "And a mystery of the first age is solved. Behold the children of Dior Eluchíl, last King of Doraith and High King of the Sindar. The lost Princes Eluréd and Elurín, long thought to have been two of the last victims of the second kinslaying."
Maglor was still white as a sheet as he watched on. Celeborn turned to speak and saw the Noldorian Prince. Frowning, he touched his wife's hand.
Galadriel turned and saw Maglor. Stepping forward, she took Maglor's hand, "Any part you played in these events is long past Maglor, son of Fëanor. You have redeemed yourself, let your guilt go lest it poisons you."
Maglor looked stricken, and his voice was little more than a whisper, "Maedhros and I searched once we heard of what was done to them…innocents. Maedhros never forgave our brother Celegorm for it; he cursed him for it."
Celeborn sighed, "For an age I hated the Sons of Fëanor and your accursed vow but of this deed, at least, your hands were clean."
"Were they?" whispered Maglor, his anguish was clear in his voice. "I did nothing to restrain my kin…even as I questioned my own role in events."
"We should wake them," said Galadriel. "I knew them as children, as did Celeborn we should be able to explain to them what has happened. To some extent at least."
"I will go," whispered Maglor. "I have no right to be here." As he finished, he turned and left.
"I will go to him," said Elrond. "I lived with Maglor for many years as a child and know all too well the guilt he bore. He will rejoice; I think once he has accepted that they live."
Luna revived the two Princes and they left them with Galadriel and Celeborn.
By the time they reached the next room and the sleeping elf maid. Elrond and a calmer Maglor had returned.
"She looks familiar to me," said Maglor. "But I cannot place her."
"I have seen her likeness among the treasures of Gil-Galad. If I am right then she is thought to be dead, and I cannot see how she could be here," said Elrond.
"She called out to Turin," said Luna.
Maglor frowned, "Surely even Melissë had limits, she was killed."
"For those of us not as familiar with Elven history," prompted Harry.
"Finduilas, daughter of Orodreth. Princess of the Noldor, Princess of Nargothrond. She died, well, at least, was thought do have died in the aftermath of the fall of Nargothrond," explained Elrond. "If it is her then this is a momentous event. She would in effect be the queen of the Noldor in Middle Earth. Not to mention that she also carries the blood of the House of Olwë as well."
Elrond straightened, "I feel that we shall need to call a conclave of the Elves…for these three to be found. It will potentially bring the Elven people together for the first time since Gil-Galad died."
"Should we wake her?" asked Harry.
Maglor shook his head, "We only met twice, both times were brief, and we never spoke as there was little love lost between her father and I. She would, however, know Galadriel. Perhaps it would be better if we waited."
"And the Beorning woman?" asked Elrond.
"Perhaps we should wait until Radagast returns," said Luna. "I fear that we shall be busy trying to help our guests for some time."
"Then let's adjourn to the library and have some refreshments. It has already been a long day already and no doubt it will be longer yet," said Harry.
"We need to think about what we will tell the Council," said Luna. "We are still meant to convene after lunch today."
"Then let us make our way to the library.," said Harry.
oOoOo
After a glass of watered wine and a plate of food, Maglor's composure had been regained. Rejoining the conversation around how to spread the word of what they had uncovered. Amidst this discussion, Radagast appeared along with an immensely tall man that Harry and Luna almost mistook for Rubeus Hagrid. The man was introduced as Beorn, chief of the Beornings.
"Radagast tells me you might have found a kinswoman of mine Wizard," said the gruff-voiced Beorn by way of introduction.
"Perhaps," admitted Luna. "But we have yet to awaken her."
"Then we had best do so," said Beorn.
They led Beorn to the room housing the Beorning.
As soon as Beorn straightened up from ducking under the seven-foot high door frame he froze, "Freya."
Beorn knelt beside the sleeping woman and gently cupped her face in his huge hands.
"I take that you know her," said Harry.
"My sister's daughter," whispered Beorn. "She had been run down by goblins and was pierced by many arrows when she fell into the great river." Beorn turned to glare at Harry. "So Wizard, how…how did she come to be here and how has she not aged a day since?"
oOoOo
In the end, it had taken hours for everything to be resolved. Well, at least, everything concerned with the initial waking of the four sleepers.
Eluréd and Elurín were sitting talking with their kinsman Celeborn. Both were seated with Galadriel, in whose presence they seemed the most comfortable. Galadriel had reported that the young princes had been distraught at first but had calmed and were, for now accepting the situation.
Finduilas had also spent hours talking with Galadriel and later with Maglor. The Princess had been distraught to hear of the fate of her people. The deaths of her beloved brother Gil-Galad and her beloved Turin had been hard blows, but she had recovered. She also was the only one who could remember what had happened to her. She had been run through by an orcish spear and pinned to a tree. As she had faded a figure with a blinding aura had come to her and healed her wounds. Her next waking moment had been when she seen Gandalf standing over her. The blond Elf maid was already looking forward to seeing what had changed in the world.
Freya had been the least forthcoming although she had confirmed that her last memory was sinking beneath the surface of the river Anduin. Her Uncle Beorn was deeply untrusting of the gathered company save Elrond, Galadriel and Celeborn, who he knew.
Harry had waited, giving everyone time to talk before he had stood to address those gathered in the tent. He had told them of the purpose of Isengard. Of their mission to bring magic to those in Middle Earth.
"Lord Maia, how is it that the Ban of the Valar has been lifted?" asked Finduilas in Elven.
"In truth highness it has not, Luna and I are envoys of the Valar. We like the Istari are here to help combat Sauron and those of his ilk," explained Harry in the same tongue.
"After so much loss it is a relief to know that there is hope," said Finduilas.
"Indeed Finduilas and if we are right, you might be playing a large role in providing that hope. Indeed, all of you sleepers were chosen, we believe to help," explained Luna.
Harry walked over to Finduilas and past her his staff, "Take this and say Lumos."
Looking confused at the odd instruction and nonsense word Finduilas dutifully followed Harry's instructions only for a pure white light to shine from the end of the staff. She stared in wonder at the staff until Harry instructed her to use nox to extinguish the light.
"That was Fëa magic…but I have never had the ability!" exclaimed Finduilas.
Harry smiled, "Others here share the same abilities. The light spell is the simplest of those abilities, with training you will be able to heal wounds or change your shape, Brada if you would."
Brada stood and transformed into a Raven before launching into the air to land on the table in front of Freya.
"A skinchanger," said Beorn in heavily accented Elven. "I didn't know any still walked these lands other than my kin that had the skill."
Freya smiled and stood. A moment later she shuddered and transformed into a large brown bear before shifting back, "My people still use the old magic."
"Will we be able to do that?" asked Elurín.
"With training," said Luna with a smile. "Here take my staff and say the magic word, Lumos."
Once Eluréd had his turn, the two boys settled down.
"So what do you want Wizard?" Beorn asked as studied Harry.
"Nothing Beorn, I want nothing, but Freya may need something. She has been given a gift that is all too rare. She will be a witch, no. That is not quite right; she is a witch. That is a title held in truth only by some of those in this tent."
"You returned her to us, that is something I will not forget, but you are asking much of my people," replied Beorn.
Luna stood and walked over to Freya and Beorn, "You seem to fear that we will steal her away. That is not our way. If Freya does choose to study with us, she is free to come and go as she wishes. She could still live with your people and study here when she can. We have another student who lives in Minas Tirith."
Beorn stroked his bushy beard as he appeared to think over Luna's words. He glanced at Freya who slowly nodded, "Very well is she chooses we can try it."
"Thank you, Uncle," said Freya with a smile.
"Perhaps it is time for you to represent your people at the White Council old friend," said Radagast as he held up a hand to forestall a reply. "I know that we have discussed this before, but Lord Elrond has been seeking more voices of men on the council. I think that you and Kind Bain of Dale would make excellent additions to the council."
Elrond smiled, "Indeed you would. Beorn, for too long you have been absent from the world of men. They and we could do with your council."
Beorn made a noise that was almost a growl, "I'll think on it."
"It has been a momentous day, but most of us here have to attend the council. Which leaves us with a decision to make," said Harry as he looked around the group, "What to tell the other council members."
"What are your thoughts?" asked Gandalf.
"We need to be truthful, these are our allies," said Harry. 'We have all worked too hard to allow something to damage our relationships."
"There will be many that will be suspicious or doubt these events. Even among my people, there will be those that will not believe what has occurred," warned Elrond.
"Or will only believe the evidence of their own eyes," added Celeborn.
"We can work with that and manage the curious," replied Luna with a smile. After all the Rise of Isengard and the Wizards had indeed attracted its share of attention. "But, I think we need to address those most impacted, Finduilas, Freya, boys what do you want to do?"
Finduilas stood and looked at her fellow sleepers for a moment before speaking, "Since I was awakened I have been thinking about what to do. My family fought Morgroth and his dark minions and in their zeal, they caused a great deal of woe and hardship for those in Middle Earth. It would only be right that I, like my brother, try and balance the scales. I will stay and learn magic, and I will do so simply as Finduilas. The time for me to rule has passed and will not come again unless it is so in the undying lands."
Freya was next, "I too will stay and learn, as much as I am able."
"We will help, at least once we learn to do magic," added Eluréd as his twin nodded in agreement.
"Then it is decided," said Elrond.
oOoOo
Prince Théodred was pleasantly surprised to see Brada and Ayrica waving to him from the path ahead. He had sought out Brada for their morning ride only to find her gone.
"Brada, cousin good morning to you both," he greeted the two young women with a polite bow.
Ayrica smiled at the greeting, "And good day to you cousin."
"I'm sorry I missed our ride Théodred. Harry called a meeting, and we've been there since," explained Brada.
"Ah well, I don't suppose there is time now as the council will sit soon, by my reckoning it fast approaching the noon hour," said Théodred.
"A short walk perhaps, I must be off anyway. I will see you both later," said Ayrica as she walked off toward Orthanc.
With a grin, Théodred took Brada's arm, "A walk sounds wonderful."
After a few minutes of walking, Brada sighed, loudly, "Out with it Théodred."
"I have spoken to the King," said Théodred.
Brada almost stumbled but regained her balance and her composure, "And?"
As she prompted Théodred, she felt her hopes and her fears rising.
Théodred stopped and looked into Brada's eyes, "He gave his permission and his blessing."
Brada froze as Théodred took her hand.
"Brada, are you alright?" asked Théodred as he looked at her stunned express with concern.
"Truly?"
Théodred smiled, "Yes truly."
Brad's face transformed from shock into joy as she dropped her staff and threw her hands around his neck and kissed him full on the lips. After a long kiss, she let him go, picked up her staff and ran toward the tower.
"Brada," called out a rather confused Théodred.
From his narrow window far above, Eomund nearly hurt himself laughing.
oOoOo
Broca finished buckling his belt as his door crashed open.
Turning in surprise, he saw Brada standing in the doorway, "Daughter?"
"Théodred just told me that he has permission to court me!" she half yelled.
Broca raised an eyebrow, "I am hard pressed to tell if that is good or ill news."
"What?"
"I have spoken to King Théoden, and we are agreed that Prince Théodred would be a suitable suitor," explained Broca before he was nearly crushed by his daughters hug.
"Thank you father."
"And where is his highness?" asked Broca.
"Théodred…he, oh Gods," Brada ran out the door leaving her staff on the floor where she had dropped it.
Broca smiled at the open door before his customary reserved expression reappeared. It appears that Brada did reciprocate Prince Théodred's feelings. If their courtship did indeed end in marriage, there would be repercussions he would have to deal with. It nothing else it had the potential to improve their people's lot.
oOoOo
Théoden joined his sister husband showing his amusement. Edmund's tale of Brada's reaction to Théodred's news was amusing; the poor lad would be teased mercilessly if word even got back to his aunt.
"Funny as it is," said Eomund as he poured his King apple juice. "There will be those that are less than impressed. I know Thendred of Swift River was keen to match his Hilda with Théodred."
Théoden raised his cup and drained it, "The food and indeed the drink here is incredible. Harry and Luna could export this, fermented or not. As for Thendred, there never really was a chance I'd pick his girl as a match. There's shared blood only a few generations back and that's never good in horses or men."
"Still there may be trouble," warned Eomund.
Théoden sighed, "Aye, I know. Love aside, there are some real benefits of the match. A tie to Isengard. A Queen, who is a magic user and peace with some, if not all of Dunland. Broca is proving to be an honourable man, and he has some power among his kin. Lud is much the same. I can work with such men."
"True," agreed Eomund as he finished his own juice and picked up a pear, "We don't have long until the noon bell rings."
"I wonder if they found who they were looking for. I haven't seen any of the Wizards or the Elves since the council session yesterday," said Théoden.
"No doubt we'll find out soon," offered Eomund.
oOoOo
Tirith was waiting for Prince Imrahil as he emerged from his room, "Ah good morning Highness."
"Captain, It is a good morning. I must say it is refreshing not to have servants hovering around, selecting my clothes and what not. I broke my fast this morning with some fresh bread, cheese and fruit. Nice simple food that is much preferable to the rich meal they would serve me at home."
"True My Lord, The Lord and Lady of Isengard set a fine table," replied Tirith.
"I believe that we have a little time yet, perhaps we could take in the sun ere we go back to the council," said Imrahil. "Or perhaps not," he muttered as Maglor appeared.
Maglor smiled and gave the Prince of Dol Amroth and Steward of Gondor a polite nod, "Highness, Captain, Lady Luna has prepared the noon meal and seating for the Council in the gardens."
Imrahil smiled, "Then by all means, we shall hurry."
oOoOo
Harry was pleasantly surprised by just how well the council seemed to be taking the sessions revelations. Many of those attending had only been summoned the previous evening and had arrived, via Portkey just prior to the session beginning.
When Finduilas was introduced as one of the sleepers, it was the newly arrived Erestor of Rivendell who made the inevitable connection that this was the Finduilas. Admittedly most of the men had little idea of her importance but once Erestor had raised it they were soon informed of her heritage. The Elfmaid made a passionate speech that was dutifully translated by Elrond. During which she acknowledged that the Highkingship of the Noldor had passed to Finarfin. She would simply be Finduilas of the House of Finarfin, and she vowed to labour alongside Maglor and the Council to bring peace to Middle Earth.
The twin Princes were also looked on with awe. Especially by King Thranduil. In the elder days, the Sindar had owed their allegiance to Thingol Greycloak. The twins were his direct descendants. The severe and oft-dour Elf King was reduced to tears as he embraced both boys, who were also his kinsmen, if only distantly. Thranduil had promised to meet with Galadriel and Celeborn to discuss where the two Princes would live after he made it clear that they were welcome in his halls.
Beorn and Freya were then introduced. A nervous Freya had spoken of her gratitude toward the Council and her return to her people, Beorn said little, save to admit that he was considering attending the next Council session.
Talk then turned to Pallando and the threat he posed to their realms.
The Dwarven representative Nold stood and nodded to Harry and Luna, "We've increased our watches in and around our lands. Our warriors are more vigilant than ever before, and yet we've seen no sign of the wizard or any of his minions. From what I've heard from those I've spoken to before we came in their stories are much the same. Could his defeat have driven him off?"
Harry stood and bowed his head toward the elderly dwarf, "I doubt it, Nold, Pallando will remain dangerous until he's permanently dealt with. He's far too powerful to ignore, and I fear that his new plans will mean that we must maintain our vigilance."
"Do we have any further insight as to what those plans are?" asked Imrahil.
"We know he wants power," replied Harry. "At the moment, he is at a distinct disadvantage in that regard. Simply put we outnumber him. He appears to be trying to change that fact. We thwarted his last attempt, but we don't know what his next move will be now."
Celeborn cleared his throat, "I still don't understand the purposes of the Maia Melissë. As blessed as her actions may be in saving those now among us, why has she done this?"
Harry resisted the urge to shrug, "We don't know Lord Celeborn."
"Or perhaps it would be better to say that we have no yet determined her purposes," said Galadriel. "Melissë did not just save their lives she saved them for some greater task. Perhaps they might somehow help us defeat Pallando."
Imrahil frowned, "Are there other artefacts he could use still out there?"
"We are researching that Prince Imrahil. Unfortunately most empowered devices are either hidden away, lost or already taken by the enemy. It may not be much of a consolation, but when we warded Mordor we cut Pallando off from anything Sauron may have seized," replied Harry.
"What of the ring?" asked Alatar. "We know the fate of the three. The nine are accounted for, and the seven are lost or taken. The ring of Sauron, the One Ring is still unaccounted for."
Elrond frowned, "Saruman long counseled that it was lost to us. I think that we must turn our thought to it once more. I know little of how it was created save that it is evil but the little I perceive fills me with apprehension. Much of Sauron's power resides in it. If Pallando were to find it and wrest away, it's power. I deem we would be hard pressed to take it from him."
Maglor cleared his throat, "I fear that I have ill news to add to your words Elrond. As you say Alatar, the rings of power are accounted for or lost to us. What little lore we still have offers us little. The rings, however, are not the only items of power that may still exist. My people created many similar items, although far less powerful in the Undying lands ere we fell into folly. Some came with the Noldor when we came to these lands. Save for some heirlooms most he been lost in the long years of war and pillage. Perhaps a lesser item would still serve Pallando."
Elrond looked in to the distance for a long moment as he recalled ages past. "I remember one such item , Arothir of the House of Finarfin bore a stone that was reportedly made by Feanor himself. I know that he wore it when he was lost in the Battle of Dagorlad because Glorfindel lamented it's loss."
"Putting aside its value as a relic of Feanor what was its purpose?" asked Alatar.
Surprisingly it was Galadriel that answered, "It shone with the pure light of Varda's stars but only as an aspect of the wearer's Fëa."
"Fëa?" asked Théodred before paling slightly as those present turned to him.
Galadriel smiled slightly as she saw the young man's embarrassment at his perceived error, "A good question Prince Théodred and one that we should address so that everyone gathered here understands our peril. In Westron, the word for Fëa is soul. Your Fëa is linked to your Hröa, your body. For the Elves, our Fëa is bound to Arda while it exists. While your kin receives the gift of the second born and depart once their time is done.
Remember that the Fëa is eternal and while it's flame may diminish with grief or sorrow it still burns. What we fear is that Pallando seeks to find a way to use stolen Fëa to power his sorcery. Such an abomination has never been attempted, and we have no way of knowing how such a thing could be done."
Prince Imrahil shook his head, "This beyond my understanding how would we defend against such an attack?"
"We don't know, we can speculate but, for now, we truly have no idea. Our best defence is going to be vigilance and a united effort," said Gandalf.
Azanath cleared his throat, "In Mordor I once saw a Sorcerer use an ancient device to empower a Morgul blade. He used a conduit that was tied to his bloodline. A bone from an ancestor."
Gandalf's expression hardened, "A necromantic ritual. Vile as that is to contemplate; it is not unknown to us. There was a reason the Dark Lord was called the Necromancer. He has used such sorcery in the past."
"This worries me," said Elrond. "There are few among the Firstborn, who remain in Middle Eart that have the skill to defend themselves against magical attack. The Istari and those that dwell in Isengard cannot guard the entirety of our lands."
"Aye, Lord Elrond speaks wisely. My kin are vigilant but guarding against even one sorcerer is no easy task," added Nold as he stroked his beard.
"It is also hard to counter the strategy of a foe when we don't know their goal," said Imrahil.
Maglor gestured toward the map of Middle Earth, "Let us not lose heart, my friends Middle Earth is far more united than ever before. Sauron is contained and the two traitors, Saruman and Pallando are no longer hidden amid our ranks. Pallando's sorcery has been countered by the Wizards, and we have won crucial victories against our enemies."
"Well said," agreed Théoden. "Since the Council reformed our alliances are stronger and our people safer."
oOoOo
Havens of Umbar
Pallando made a curt gesture of dismissal, and the two armed guards withdrew leaving their prisoner bound on the floor. She was battered and barely covered by the brown smock she wore. A frown creased his face as he considered how he would punish those responsible for her mistreatment. After all, his orders had been quite specific and he had paid very well for the delivery of the elf lying unconscious at his feet.
With another gesture, he called the two slave-servants, "Tauril, Alara, please bathe her up and see to her injuries. I also wish to know if she has been…interfered with. Call a healer only if you must."
The two women bowed and gently lifted the elf before carrying her to the bath house. With a sigh, Pallando stood and followed. His plans were once again at a critical point and this time, only he knew what they were. By the time he reached the bathhouse the Elfmaid had been stripped bare and the two human women were gently washing her long hair and sadly blemished skin
"Alas my lord she appears to have been used by the slavers," reported Alara.
"I see," replied Pallando as his expression hardened. "Send word to Zavek that the slavers should be chastised, fatally."
Alara bowed as she left. Tauril was still gently washing the drugged elf as Pallando sat on the edge of the bath. It was unfortunate that Eldemmírë had been mistreated, but it did not mean his plans were ruined.
He had first met her when he had not long arrived in Middle Earth. He had sort out the remaining Elves living, hidden away in the forests of the East. Clans that were direct descendants of the Telerin Elves, who had followed Lenwë, kinsman of Thingol Greycloak. Counted among the Avari they had fled the wars in Beleriand and taken the ancient forests of Dorwinion as their new home. There they had survived the great wars and upheavals of the ages. He had not known at the time how vital she would be to his plans. One night after much strong wine she had revealed that she was a direct descendant of Lenwë, and thus she carried the blood of Thingol Greycloaks line.
An irrelevant fact at the time but one that was now vital. Eldemmírë of the Flowing-Hair would be his key to unlocking one of the artifacts he now held. It was tied to the line of Thingol and Melian. Their direct descendants were gone from Middle Earth, but Thingol's blood still lived in her. Through her he could activate the sceptre of the King and draw on its power. Along with the elven stone he held and the ring lore he possessed, he could make his own ring of power. He would not, however, repeat the folly of Sauron. His ring would not be powered by his own, much-reduced power. No, it would be powered by others. Their Fëa would empower him until he could cast off the chains with which the Valar held him shackled.
Then there would be a reckoning.
The aloof Ainur of Valinor would fall, and he alone would be left to bring order to all the lands. Then when he was powerful enough, he would unlock the Doors of Night and bring forth Morgoth. Melkor the mighty would fall, and the prophecy would be broken.
There would be peace.
Pallando looked down at the elf maid.
"Leave us and see that we are not disturbed," he ordered the slaves.
He laid a gentle hand on the forehead of Eldemmírë and began chanting in the Black Speech of Mordor. His sorcery slowly wrapped around the mind of the Elven woman. He slowly, subtly, began to twist her memories. Their old friendship was first. Friendship was nudged toward love and devotion. Her capture by slavers became the memory of Pallando coming to her rescue.
Even such small changes drained him. He was exhausted and grey-faced as he straightened. He gently dried her before picking up Eldemmírë and carrying her to his bedchamber.
oOoOo
Eldemmírë returned to wakefulness fearfully. She had been captured, and the foul man had forced her…a shadow of pain passed through her causing her to shudder.
"Eld, my love… Eldemmírë?"
"Pallando, is that you?"
Turning she saw the Maia sitting beside her bed with a look of concern on his face.
"What…where am I?" She had been dragged across the great plains of grass….hadn't she?
"You are safe; I found you."
"I…"
"Do not worry Eld, you are safe here."
Eldemmírë nodded, accepting his words as the noble Maia took her hand and caressed it. Yes, she was safe in the bed of her lover.
oOoOo