Chapter 12 - Taking Council and building alliances
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.
Sorry for the wait guys and gals but this chapter really needed to be rewritten and then rewritten again. In the end, I changed almost the entirety of the text.
Last Time:
"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
Isengard
Harry leaned against the railing of his balcony and watched the sunrise. Behind him, in the room, Luna was softly snoring with Selene in her arms. The last three months had been quiet with no sign of Pallando or even rumour of him. The respite was welcome but worrying. The White Council was at a loss as to why the fallen Istari had suddenly disappeared but had taken the opportunity to build their defences and prepare.
It had also allowed Maglor and Luna to begin work on the next phase of Isengard's development. Peering toward the newly erected buildings, he could see movement as the builders and tradesmen prepared to start work. In the fields and in the town that was growing around the guild schools smoke rose from chimneys as the days cooking began. In many ways, it was still surprising to see so many people living and working in Isengard. When they had arrived there had been so few people, barely enough to survive. Now people clamoured to live in Isengard, home of the Wizards and a growing centre of learning for craftsmen.
"Harry?"
Pulled from his musing by Luna's voice he turned back to the room and his family and another day.
oOoOo
"There has been a proposal that I think would fit with our plans," said Maglor with a broad smile. "We are looking to create two new craft halls, one for farmers and one for the healing arts."
"An excellent idea, very wise," said Radagast. 'There are few healers left save among the Elves and in the lands of Gondor."
"The Houses of Healing in Minas Tirith are always shorthanded and even in peace time their work is of great import," added Tirith.
"And the Farming Hall would also be welcomed, I should think. Sharing knowledge as has the Craftsmen should only bring better harvests," said Ayrica.
"Good, then we shall pass the word that we are seeking suitable masters and candidates for training," said Maglor.
Harry was about to speak when Luna beat him to it, "I think I've found another way to identify potential wizards and witches."
Gandalf leaned forward, surprise on his face, "You found a way?"
Luna smiled and gestured to Brada, who carried a large leather bound book over to the table. "Hogwarts had a book that magically registered the birth of every magical child in the country. It has taken me a while but I finally figured out how they did it."
"Fascinating," replied Gandalf. "May I?" he asked as he indicated the book.
"Of course, to avoid any issues I've made sure that if it leaves the library, the pages will erase themselves until its return. If it leaves the tower it erases permanently," explained Luna.
Gandalf studied the book before opening it and looking up in surprise, "There are names!"
Luna grinned at the surprised faces around the room, "Three of them."
"Wow," whispered Harry before smiling at his wife. "You are a bloody genius."
Luna batted her eyelashes, "Why thank you, my Lord. With this, we can identify potential wizards and witches. That raises another issue how shall we do this? Do we approach the parents? Do we wait until they are eleven like Hogwarts?"
Harry frowned as he considered, "We could approach the families, offer a home for them here if they need it. But that still means that we need to decide on an appropriate age."
"Need we have one?" asked Maglor. "The Princes are soon starting with us and despite their lineage and race, they are still children."
Harry opened his mouth to respond but paused as he considered Maglor's point. It was a good one. They had been looking solely at the person's ability and it was only luck (or the will of the Valar) that they had gathered students that were of a reasonable age. "Perhaps we could have pre-school stage…teach reading and writing so that when we judge them ready they could begin lessons."
Gandalf ran his fingers through his beard as he considered Harry's proposal, "Hmm, wise words Harry I believe that is a workable idea."
"What of the three names?" asked Brada. "Should we approach them?"
Luna smiled, "We should even if it is just to warn the parents."
"We have a meeting of the White Council tomorrow. After that we will have liberty to approach our potential students," advised Gandalf.
oOoOo
The hall being used by the White Council was far larger than the original in Rivendell. Now, with its expanded membership some thirty people gathered around the huge u shaped table.
From his position, Harry could see all the members. Closest to him were Broca and Lud, who were sharing a quiet conversation. Next were Beorn and Freya. Both looked somewhat uncomfortable as they made conversation with the Elves beside them. There was a large elven contingent included Finduilas, who sat beside Galadriel and Celeborn. Rather surprisingly both Legolas and his father, Thranduil were present. Beside them sat Elrond and his sons who were talking quietly to Maglor, Glorfindel and Galdor of the Havens.
Next came Théoden, Éomund, and Théodred. Seated beside them were Imrahil and Tirith (who gave Harry a smile and a wave) as well as a well-dressed lady, obviously, a noblewoman although Harry didn't know her he suspected it was Ivriniel, sister of Imrahil and Tirith's lover and new fiancé.
The dwarven section was rather full with representatives from the Lonely Mountain, the Iron Hills and both the Blue and Grey Mountains. The Dwarves were mostly talking, loudly, among themselves (except Nold, who was talking to Luna and Brada near the door).
Seated with the dwarves was a single Hobbit, Barin of Long Cleeve the representative of both the Thrain and the Mayor as well as a resident of the Smith Crafthall. The quiet Hobbit was talking with Gandalf and Radagast
The residents of the tower were the last group and they were scattered around the room preparing for the meeting. Azanath was preparing sheets of parchment, reports no doubt while Ayrica and Alatar were updating the large map of Middle Earth that dominated the side of the hall.
As the bell sounded signalling the start of the council, Elrond stood.
"Welcome to Isengard and this gathering of the White Council…"
oOoOo
The noon meal was a welcome break from the politics of the council. Luna went upstairs to see to Selene so Harry had grabbed a wedge of cheese and a fresh dark roll before he had made his way outside to enjoy the sunlight in the garden.
Wandering over to a section of flowering shrubs he sat on the wooden bench and started making himself as much of a cheese sandwich as he could without butter or indeed white bread. Of all the foods he missed in Middle Earth, it was the simple ones that often surprised him.
"Do you mind if I join you?" asked a voice with a distinctly Elven accent.
Harry turned his head to see Finduilas holding a plate of fruit slices and a clay cup.
"Please, I would be honoured," replied Harry as he stood and tried, subtlety, to brush the crumbs off his robe.
Finduilas smiled, "Thank you." The Elven woman sat gracefully and arranged her plate and cup.
Harry looked down at his cheese roll and heard Finduilas laugh.
"Please eat, I won't be offended if you will extend me the same courtesy."
"A fair deal," replied Harry with a grin.
Harry finished off his lunch and sat back to let Finduilas finish hers. Even without conversation, it was pleasant sitting in the sunshine.
Eventually, Finduilas set aside her plate, "I wanted to ask you something, my Lord."
"Harry please, and please ask away," replied Harry with a smile.
"Mithrandir has explained your mission to me, and his of course but I am still unclear on what you are doing here in Isengard. Lord Elrond said that I would do well to ask you myself." Since her revival Finduilas had spent time among her people, reconnecting with those that still walked the lands an age after her last memories. The changes were immense and, in the end, she had spent nearly three months in Rivendell and Lothlórien.
Harry considered a moment before answering, "We are trying to build something new. Magic has long been the tool of the enemy, sorcery, necromancy and nameless dark rituals have allowed Sauron to build his power. They allowed Saruman to beguile others into doing his bidding and now they have allowed Pallando to work his evil. The Valar sent Luna and I to oppose them and to bring our brand of magic to Middle Earth."
"And your craftsmen?"
"An extension of our mission and of the White Council," explained Harry. "What better way to build and strengthen alliances than by sharing knowledge?"
"Indeed, I look forward to seeing them," replied Finduilas. "If my studies allow it." She added with a smile.
Harry grinned, "Oh you will find yourself involved in far more than your studies."
oOoOo
"What did they call this again?" asked Lud.
"A buffet," replied Broca. "Whatever it is named it is a well-laid table."
"Would that we had such variety in our own halls," replied Lud.
"Soon cousin we might. Peace with Rohan and an alliance with Isengard will open up trade for us."
"Will fish and mutton give us this?" asked Lud.
"It is what they need and we have it. You have seen the schools here, think what we can achieve, what crafts we can bring to our people."
"Wise words my friend."
Broca and Lud turned to find Imrahil and Théoden beside them as the filled their plates at the food table.
"Trade is something that fell away after the war of the last alliance. Every kingdom, every people had lost far too much to look outside their borders. With a lack of trade, we became more…what was Luna's word? Ah yes, we became more insular. We looked inward until the White Council changed this. For generations our two peoples have been at each other's throats, now we have an opportunity to end our dispute."
Lud looked unconvinced, "And when the people of Dunland grow strong again?"
Théoden looked Lud in the eyes as he replied, "Then we both prosper by having strong neighbours with whom we have strong trade and even family ties. Remember also that one day, probably in your lifetime a woman of Dunland will sit on a thrown in Rohan."
"And their children will have our blood in their veins," added Broca.
Lud nodded as he looked thoughtfully across the hall at his cousin Brada, who was talking quietly with Théodred.
"Ties of Blood, trade and mutual defence will lead to trust and friendship. If you can but make the first steps," added Imrahil as he added a bread roll to his plate.
oOoOo
"It is quite remarkable," offered Ivriniel as she sat beside Tirith at one of the smaller tables. "I shall have to seek permission to come more often."
Tirith grinned and poured his lady a cup of apple juice, "Oh yes Isengard is like that. I hope to have the chance to show you the town before we Portkey back."
Ivriniel studied the young woman talking to Mithrandir, "I find it amazing enough that Magic is taught here but to see that many of the students are women, girls really…well, it is surprising."
Tirith nodded, "Aye, Ayrica and Brada are surprisingly young to be so gifted. My few memories of learning magic in my old world are of younger children learning. I…I'm not sure of course but I suspect they might bring in younger students if they can find ones with the gift."
Ivriniel shook her head in wonder, "As I said, amazing…so when we have children will they be schooled here?"
She had waited until her betrothed had taken a sip of apple juice and now she had to pat him on the back as he tried to clear his throat.
"Um…er, well that is yes they will if they have magic," replied Sirius.
"That is a good thing, I think, let them be a part of this grand experiment."
oOoOo
Beorn and Freya found themselves caught up in a conversation with Alatar and Radagast as the two Istari sounded out Beorn regarding a more permanent seat on the White Council.
Eventually, Beorn shook his head, "Nay I will not but your words are wise. I shall send my son Grimbeorn in my stead. He shall soon lead our people in any event. With Freya here studying she can see to any urgent matters."
Freya raised an eyebrow at the talk of her cousin ruling but held her tongue.
oOoOo
The Kingdom of Dale
Gandalf was quite adamant that they pay a courtesy visit to King Bain before they tracked down the family they had come to see.
"After all, Harry we wish for King Bain to be a representative for men on the council. A little diplomacy might work wonders."
Harry glared at the older man but conceded his point. It wasn't that Harry wanted to be rude but he had hoped to see all three families in one day. A royal visit, albeit unannounced would probably put paid to that idea. He glanced at Luna, who shrugged, "I think we should follow Gandalf's lead here, after all, he knows the King."
Harry need not have worried. King Bain was an older man with greying hair and an easy, friendly smile. When Gandalf had appeared Bain had stood, walked forward and taken Gandalf's hand, "Gandalf, my friend it is good to see you once more. And as spry as ever, you old busybody."
Gandalf smiled and studied the King's lined face, "And you majesty are looking as old and decrepit as I had expected."
Bain laughed and clapped Gandalf on the shoulder, "Ha, I am old Gandalf. Not all of us can defy time so well. And who have you brought to my halls?"
"King Bain, I present to you Harry, Lord of Isengard and his lady wife Luna," said Gandalf.
Bain raised an eyebrow, "The Wizard of Isengard, my Lord Wizard both you and your fair wife are welcome in my halls."
"Thank you, your Majesty," replied Harry with a respectful dip of his head.
"It is a pleasure to be here," added Luna with a smile.
Bain laughed again as he stepped forward, took Luna's hand and kissed her knuckles, "It does me proud to have you both in my halls, given the reports King Dain has shared with me regarding your many adventures."
Straightening King Bain offered Luna his arm, "Walk with me my Lady if your good husband will allow it and tell me why Gandalf has brought you to my door."
Luna linked her arm with the Kings and began walking with him, "We are seeking special students your majesty and we believe that one such resides in your lands."
"A wizard lives here?" asked Bain with very clear surprise in his voice.
"A potential Wizard or, in this case, Witch," corrected Luna. "And they are but a child at this point."
"Amazing," replied Bain. "And you have come to take them to Isengard?"
"If that is their wish although there are other options we might consider," replied Luna.
"A student of Isengard lives in Minas Tirith. He journeys to Isengard via magic to complete his studies," added Gandalf.
"Hmm, and this worthy child's name?" asked Bain.
"Tilly, daughter of Dorim," replied Luna.
"Little Tilly!" exclaimed the King. "She is but five summers old."
"We do not expect her to begin her training in earnest until she has reached a reasonable age. We had hoped to offer a more traditional education until then," explained Harry.
Bain nodded slowly, "Ah, I see, I think. You seek to tutor young Tilly until she is ready to learn her craft, so to speak. Well, that will sit better with Dorim as it isn't that different to how many a skilled tradesmen began their training. What of her family?"
"In the end, it will be their choice," replied Luna in a firm tone.
"Well then let us send for Dorim and Lucetta and see what their wishes are," replied Bain.
"Perhaps they might bring young Tilly," suggested Gandalf.
oOoOo
"You sent for us your Majesty," said a nervous looking Dorim after offering his king a deep bow. His wife, Lucetta, offered a rather nervous curtsey as Tilly waved to Bain.
"We have some questions Merchant Dorim and you have a rather unique opportunity," said Bain with a wide smile.
"I'm sorry your majesty but I don't understand," replied Dorim.
Gandalf shot the grinning King a look as he stepped forward, "Goodman Dorim, we three represent the White Council and Isengard. We have some matters to discuss with you and your lady wife."
"Gandalf!" exclaimed Dorim. "But what...I mean…"
He trailed off as Luna walked past Gandalf and walked up to the shocked Merchant. "I am Luna, Lady of Isengard. We have recently begun searching for those gifted with the ability to learn magic. Our search has led us to your daughter."
Dorim was trying to follow, "Er my eldest Rosalind is heavy with child…I am not sure now…" once again he trailed off as Luna looked down at Tilly. "Tilly?"
Luna smiled and lay a gentle hand on the Merchants arm, "Yes, Tilly is who we are here to see."
"But she is too young," said Lucetta as her hands went to Tilly's shoulders as if to hold her back.
"To be schooled full time, of course, but we are thinking of her future. In a few years she should be old enough and with your permission, we would like to invite her to Isengard."
"Are you sure?" asked Dorim as he looked down at his wide-eyed daughter.
"Let us see," replied Harry as he held his staff out to Tilly, "Could you hold this for me, Tilly? It is a bit long but it isn't heavy."
Tilly looked at her parents and then carefully took the long staff. Harry helped her stand it upright and then let go.
"Now Tilly I want you to think about a bright light, as bright as the brightest candle. Can you do that?" asked Harry.
"Yes," whispered Tilly as she looked at the staff in wonder.
"Now I want you to this word, out loud and as clear as you can, Lumos."
"Lumus," repeated Tilly.
Luna smiled and kneeled down beside Tilly, "That's a good try Tilly but you have to say it just like Harry. Lumos."
"Lumos."
The crystal on the staff had burst into light before Tilly dropped it in shock.
"I would say that is proof, wouldn't you?" asked Bain.
oOoOo
Edoras - Rohan
"It is good to see you once more in these halls," said Théodwyn as she kissed her nieces' cheek.
"Harry and Luna are off with Gandalf visiting potential future students. So we have been given a full seven days off until we again resume our studies. There is no place I'd rather be than here," explained Ayrica with a smile. "Now where are Eomer and Eowyn I have a few new tricks to show them."
After the children had been seen and returned to bed, Ayrica and Théodwyn found themselves sipping wine in the nearly deserted great hall. Only half dozen guards could be seen standing their duty posts.
Théodwyn smiled to herself as she took in the changes to her niece. She had left behind girlhood and was now a beautiful woman. A powerful, well-connected woman whose deeds had already been captured in the songs sung in this very hall. "So do you have your eye on any young men?"
Ayrica choked down a mouthful of wine as she mock glared at her Aunt, "Not funny Auntie."
Théodwyn grinned and rolled her eyes, "Yes it was, but truly you are a very desirable catch given you fame, abilities and your connections to Isengard. I am somewhat surprised that you have not had suitors at your beck and call."
Ayrica sighed, "Truthfully I have been busy with my studies and well...there was someone I had my eye on but truthfully he never knew and once I realised that I have begun to look elsewhere."
Théodwyn studied her with a knowing look, "It was Harry wasn't it."
"I…no…how did you know?" demanded Ayrica in a near whisper.
Théodwyn's lip's turned up as she smiled gently, "I remember the first man I realised was…well was a man. Denold, captain of my father's first Éored. I was a lass of six and ten and he was married with children near my age. A brave and noble man that I still think of fondly," she admitted with some amusement.
Ayrica gaped at her aunt, "You mean Denold of the Marshes?"
Théodwyn nodded.
Ayrica sat wide eyed for a few moments before she started giggling, "Really old Denold?"
Théodwyn assumed an exaggeratedly insulted expression, "He wasn't always the kindly old man you know now."
Ayrica took a sip of her wine, "I'm just glad I never made a fool of myself."
Swirling the wine in her glass Théodwyn looked thoughtful as she considered, "Do you know that my brother and husband both return from Harrowdale on the morrow? Come evening there shall be a feast given that it's the seventh day. Nearly everyone will be in attendance. Perhaps Théodred and Brada should come…"
Ayrica tried not to roll her eyes at her aunt's obvious matchmaking.
oOoOo
Isengard
Brada smiled as Théodred's arms snaked around her waist.
"You look beautiful my love."
"I'm doing my hair…if you want to go out for a walk before we return to Edoras I need to finish my braid."
Théodred kissed her on the neck and stepped back, "I wish we had a few more days together before I'm surrounded by family.."
"We have seven days before I must return," replied Brada with a sly look. "I'm sure you know some secluded spots in your father's house."
Théodred shot her a surprised look, "I had thought that you would return home."
Brada turned to look at him, "I can do both, besides I am sure my father and cousin would appreciate a visit from my future husband."
"Oh I'm sure a Prince of Rohan would be welcomed," replied Théodred.
"Peace has to start somewhere, we need to hold our heads high," replied Brada.
The Prince of Rohan hesitated for a brief moment before nodding, "You are right, for people to accept us we need to let them see Rohan can be their friend and ally."
"But don't worry love we'll still find time for us," Brada reassured with a look that had Théodred smiling broadly.
oOoOo
Azanath wondered what he had done to deserve such happiness. Next to him Miriel shifted slightly tightening her grip around his torso. While the Elves claimed that they didn't truly sleep Miriel did an excellent impression of it.
He had long resisted his feelings toward the former slave out of fear that he was taking advantage of her. Even when Miriel made it clear that she sort out his affections he had tried to do what he perceived as the right thing. Slowly she had worn down his defences and then one night she had simply walked into his bedchamber and disrobed. Despite his protests, she had slipped into his bed and curled up next to him.
A few nights later they had made love.
It had been a long time since he had lain with a woman. Indeed, the last had been Miriel and it was a memory that stayed with him along with his guilt. The Elfmaid had been horribly abused and used as a slave and he felt, at least, some responsibility for that. Even though he had not been responsible for her enslavement that fact that he had taken ownership of her now repulsed him.
The change in their relationship occurred when he awoke to find Miriel staring at him. She stroked his cheek as her eyes searched his face.
"I love you."
Three simple words, words that let him truly understand how things had changed between them.
"Azanath?"
He looked down to see Miriel looking at him as she clutched him. He smiled and caressed her ear making her shudder.
"I am with child."
Azanath's hand froze, "I…truly?"
"Yes my lord."
Azanath rolled out of bed and pulled Miriel to her feet. Seeing her look of fear he quickly pulled her close and kissed her.
"I…I'm sorry…I can…"
Azanath kissed her again, "By the light of the Valar…a child."
"You are pleased?" she asked in a near whisper.
"Pleased? I am overjoyed" replied Azanath with a broad smile before calming. "Miriel, I'm sorry I never thought, are you pleased?"
Miriel nodded as tears rolled down her cheeks.
"Then there is but one formality yet to complete. Will you be my wife?"
Azanath froze as Miriel stared into his eyes tearfully, "I…yes."
oOoOo
Maglor and Glorfindel were discussing the latest news from the court of King Thranduil when Azanath burst into the library dragging a surprised looking Miriel behind him. Both looked like they had dressed in a great hurry.
"My Lords, what are the customs of the Elves regarding marriage?"
Glorfindel and Maglor exchanged a glance.
"My I ask why there is a sudden and seemingly urgent desire for information on marriage rites?" asked Glorfindel.
Miriel beamed at the Elven Lord, "I am with child."
Glorfindel's eyes widened as he stepped forward to gently take Miriel's hand, "My lady, may the Valar bless you both. Should we summon Lord Elrond or perhaps Lady Galadriel?"
"I...why would we need to do that?" asked Azanath.
Maglor stepped forward, serious faced but with some amusement showing in his eyes, "Azanath you do realise how few elves are born in these later days. And how very, very few half-elves are born. Many of our kin will be delighted with this news. I am sure Lord Glorfindel is only concerned about Miriel and your child's health. Oh and since you have…ah consummated your relationship many Elves would consider that as a formal bonding."
oOoOo
Minas Tirith - Gondor
Tirith strode toward the barracks with a poorly hidden look of frustration on his face. Since returning from the last sitting of the White Council in Isengard, he had been helping train the Rangers of Ithilien. Well, that had been the Prince's Plan. He had seen the Rangers of the south being crucial in the plan to retake Ithilien for Gondor. In the wake of the warding of Mordor and the lack of conflict with the southern lands Prince Imrahil had deemed the time ripe. Unfortunately, the Rangers were too few in number to man the forts and their usual tactics of hit and run fights were ill-suited.
So now he needed to tell Imrahil and find a better, long term solution.
He also had to admit, to himself at least, that he was missing Ivriniel, who had journeyed with Boromir and Faramir to Dol Amroth the day after their return to Gondor.
"Tirith, Captain Tirith," Tirith turned to see one of the older boys in the guard that acted as messengers jogging across the courtyard.
"Brenald isn't it?" asked Tirith as the lad caught up with him.
"Sir, His Highness…waiting for you… in his chambers," panted out Brenald.
"Thank you," replied Tirith with a grin. "Good work finding me."
Brenald smiled back, saluted and took off at a slow jog for the long haul back to the runners post and Tirith followed at a more sedate pace. Once he was out of sight, he apparated to the small office he had outside Imrahil's much larger office.
The Prince was waiting, leaning over his desk studying a scroll. As Tirith entered, Imrahil turned and waved him over. "I've been looking over your report and I believe that you are right. The Rangers are ill-equipped to man the forts we propose. Let me think on it and we can talk it through tomorrow." Imrahil straightened and gestured to a seat opposite his desk. "There is, however, something that I want to discuss with you."
Tirith sat and Imrahil followed suit, "Tirith I think that I have come to know you well. You are among the brightest of my officers and I trust your judgement, honour and integrity."
Tirith nodded accepting the Princes words but wondering what else was going on.
"I say this so that you don't misunderstand my next question, do you love my sister?"
Tirith didn't hesitate, "Yes, I do Highness."
Imrahil smiled, "Well that I knew, so why haven't you set a date?"
"A date?" asked Tirith.
"For the wedding Captain," clarified Imrahil with a broadening smile.
"Highness…sir …I don't want to…my rank is far…" Tirith trailed off as the Prince's smile grew larger.
"Well given both her and your feelings I would appreciate a date so that I can let my steward start planning. On that note Captain, I have been looking at the various lordships I hold the patents to and I believe that I have just the thing."
"The thing Highness?" asked Tirith, who had begun, for some reason to sweat.
"Yes, the Lordship of Linhir is currently vacant after the death of Lord Elcion. Such an important town on both the river and the road from Pelargir to Ethring cannot be bereft of lordship indefinitely."
"I…I…"
"Come stout fellow buck up, you are soon to be married to a great lady of high birth," Imrahil said brightly with an earnest expression on his face before he began laughing.
"It's not funny," muttered Tirith.
"Oh but it is captain. My sister has made it clear that when she sails back in to town in a few days' time we, that is you and I had best have matters in hand. My role as Steward is apparently only of secondary importance at the juncture."
Tirith winced, "Are you serious about the Lordship. How can I serve here and run a town?"
"Linhir is an important town, right on the edge of my principality. However, Elcion was an absentee Lord being a Calvary officer here in Minas Tirith. His very capable steward ran the town, still does in fact" explained Imrahil. "That being said, you are still being elevated to its Lordship."
Tirith gave in, "Thank you."
"Now about that wedding date," began Imrahil.
oOoOo
Havens of Umbar
Pallando looked out over the walls of his compound to the ocean with a sneer. It had taken years to prepare his grand plan only for the Wizards to ruin it.
As they had ruined his next attempt.
But in the end it would avail them nothing, he would still succeed. It would just take longer.
In hindsight it was clear that his plan wasn't at fault but his execution had been. So now he would take a longer path. He would prepare and build his strength. He had the artefacts he needed and an ally whose blood would enable him to access enough power to do what he must.
Until the day came he would wait, patiently for the right time, even if it took a few years. What was that to an immortal?
"Love, come back to bed," called out Eldemmírë.
Pallando grinned nastily, waiting had some very tangible benefits as well.