3. INTO THE KINGDOM OF THE ROHIRRIM

Jin was moving up, that much she knew, but exactly where she would end up, she didn’t know. All she knew was that she had to get back to the keep. Back to the ones she cared for. Back to Lac’Nala. Her shoulder screamed each time she tried to move her arm and she knew the joint had been dislocated when Dyllaloth yanked her up so violently. She HAD to get it back in place or she would surely die without being able to defend herself. Already she could hear the panting of the hounds Kallus had set loose on her.

Finally unable to move anymore because the pain was so bad, Jin stopped and dropped to her knees. Fighting off the pain, she located what she needed; a large, heavy stone. Twisting her body as she knelt down, she curled her fingers around the edge of the stone, took several deep breaths and closed her eyes, clenching her jaw. When her eyes snapped open, she quickly stood up grasping the stone. Jin screamed as a sharp pain ripped through her shoulder but she still heard the audible SNAP telling her the shoulder joint was back where it should be.

Gingerly moving the arm to tests its range o motion, she still felt sharp pain but nothing like what she felt before. At east now she would be able to cast a spell as long as it didn’t require and large, arcing motions with her arm. Hearing a howl in the distance, Jin took off through the Under Dark again. The hounds were gaining on her and that short reprieve she just had put the hounds even closer. Moving as fast as her exhausted body would let her, the Drowess darted through the tunnels of the Under Dark as though she’d never missed a day.

Taking a turn to the right, she began to see the tell tale signs of the support beams that had been set into place many, many years ago. She was growing closer to the Keep that much she knew. Behind her she heard the snarling, growling yips of the hounds and knew she would never be able to make it without turning and fighting. Picking a strategic location where the ceiling grew low and the tunnel more narrow, Jin turned and faced the hounds. The tunnel was too narrow for all of them to advance at once and there were six she could count.

They paced before the opening like the hungry beasts they were, their mouths frothing at the morsel just a few feet away. Their huge noses sniffed the air and their large, clawed feet scratched at the earthen floor of the tunnel impatiently. Finally one of them lunged forward into the tunnel testing the ability of their prey and Jin responded with a bolt fired from her cross bow that struck the nasty beast in the upper chest. It yelped, whined a moment then grew silent and still. This caused the others to rethink their strategy.

Never let it be said they were dumb animals. Quite the contrary. They were very intelligent. While raw instincts drove them to their task, it was a well tuned mind that made them formidable opponents. The other five paced once more outside the entrance. For the longest time that’s all they did and just when Jin saw they were getting ready to make another go at it, she heard several yelps and yipes coming from where the hounds were located. The last two she could see started running in the opposite direction and Jin wondered what the hell was going on.

Just then she saw a dark face peer into the tunnel from the left side. A male Drow gestured for her to come out and when Jin raised her cross bow in a threatening manner, the male stepped fully into the opening and held his arms out at his sides, palm up and called to her.

”Hale, Child of Eilistraee.”

Jin recognized the crest on his leather chest plate and lowered her cross bow.

”Hale, friend.”

The male nodded then gestured for her to come out once more. Jin slowly walked towards the opening of the tunnel and saw there were almost a dozen Drow soldiers, all with cross bows ready to fire as they continued to look around for any stragglers. Jin was thoroughly confused and gave the male who had called to her a puzzled look. He bowed slightly and explained.

“What ever the need, the Goddess shall provide. She told us of your plight and knew you would need help since your friend’s departure. We are here to escort you to the keep where the Rohirrim prepare to battle the Gorrinvul. We shall meet up with others along the way and guard the underground entrance to insure the Gorrinvulk do not breech the defenses from within.”

Jin couldn’t believe it but she wasn’t going to question it either. With a nod, she spoke in a coarse whisper.

”I shall be certain to offer my thanks to the Goddess tonight in my prayers. And the brave soldiers she send to our aid.”

The man nodded then made a strange clicking sound. Jin understood the noise and quickly feel in step behind him as the others followed behind her. As they traveled quickly through the tunnels, Jin noticed the different soldiers who were positioned in different areas of the Under Dark. She lost count when she got close to a hundred but knew there were others she couldn’t see.

In about an hour, the soldiers stopped at the opening of a tunnel that had a rather steep incline. The lead soldier pointed up into it and nodded.

“This will put you at the wooden door you made entrance into the Under Dark. There should be someone waiting to allow you entrance into the keep. Knock and they will hear you. Fight the good fight, sister”

Jin glance dup the tunnel then back at the soldier and nodded to them as well.

”Fight the good fight, brothers.”

Moving into the tunnel, Jin leaned forward as she moved up the steep incline. When she got to the top there was a wooden door and she used her good arm to use her hand to knock. Calling out to the other side, she hoped she would not be here for long and she hoped Lac’Nala was there to greet her.

”HALE! WARRIOR OF ROHAN! CEOLWULF! I HAVE RETURNED!”

A soldier heard the knock and the muffled female voice from the other side and startled. Moving closer to the door, he pressed his ear to it and called out to the voice on the other side.

“How do I know you are not a dead warrior trying to fool me?”

Jin couldn’t believe what she was hearing.

”You idiot! Have you ever heard those hideous creatures talk yet?”

The soldier thought for a moment then shrugged.

“No. I suppose not.”

Jin waited a moment then shouted again through a clenched jaw.

”Then open the door and LET ME THROUGH!”

The soldier jumped to action then and began unbolting the many locks in place on the door. When the last lock was unbolted and the door began to slowly open, Jin put her foot against the door and shoved with all her strength. The door flew open and the startled soldier jumped back brandishing his sword. Before he could blink the Drowess was on him like a viper on a rat, her dagger poised dangerously close to his jugular on his neck. Pressing the blade against his skin, she leaned in close and whispered quietly.

”I should kill you now on principal alone.”

The startled soldier gulped and glanced down at her with his frightened eyes. Jin slowly eased back and withdrew her dagger from his throat. Placing the blade back in the sheath it came from, she barked at the soldier again.

”Where is your lord, Ceolwulf?”

The soldier looked at her from head to toe and didn’t recognize her. She was covered from head to toe in some sort of black substance that had all but dried and she stunk to high heaven. Forcing himself from his staring at her, he stammered.

“H-he i-is….on th-the R-Ramparts. The Gorrinvul….they are preparing to attack again.”

Brushing past the startled warrior, Jin appeare dint he bailey of the keep and looked around Several of the Rohirrim that rushed by slowed to look at the strange creature that emerged from the darkness near the stable. Her eyes darted all around looking for Ceolwulf, mindless of the soldiers who practically skidded to a halt at seeing her. Afte a few attempts to stop her, thinking she was the enemy, Jin took off running as fast as she could, darting between the large forms of the warriors and headed for the ramparts. Spotting Ceolwulf, she made a dash for the ladder only to have one of the men grab a hold of her by the waist and yank her off. The pain in her shoulder caused her to scream out and then she started fighting and kicking like a wild banshee.

”PUT ME DOWN THIS INSTANT! MY BUSINESS IS WITH LORD CEOLWULF! I WILL KILL YOU ALL!”

Another figure on the ramparts quickly turned its attention to the scene below and after a few moments quickly shouted to the men below.

”STOP! Put her down! She is not the enemy!”

Augustine barely recognized Jin but when he saw the curve of her jaw and the high cheek bones, he saw beneath the dirt who had returned. As quickly as he could he rushed down the ladder and walked briskly towards the squirming Drowess. The soldier still had a hold of her but it was all he could do to hold her without being hurt.

Augustines voice boomed across the bailey.

“JIN!”

Instantly the Drowess settled and blinked as she saw the Druid before her. Tears welled up in her eyes then and she whispered hoarsely to him.

”Augustine……he is gone…..I could do nothing to save him.”

The Druid furrowed his brow for a moment and thought she was referring to Lac’Nala but when he glanced around he suddenly realized who she was talking about. Looking at Ceolwulf, who now stood next to the Druid, he shook his head slightly letting him know that only one of the two would be returning from this mission. Nodding to the soldier, he spoke in a soothing voice.

“Release her, please. She will not hurt anyone, least of all me.”

The soldier reluctantly let Jin go and as soon as her feet touched the ground, she rushed to Augustine and clung to him. The Druid stroked her dirt caked hair and made a shhhhshing sound.

“It’s OK Jin. You are among friends once more. Tell us what happened.”

The Drowess heard the sounds around her and realized the Rohirrim were preparing for a fight The words of the Drow soldier came back to her then and she pushed away from Augustine and looked around.

The Gorrinvul! They are attacking!”

Augustine nodded.

“Yes. We know. We can hear them approaching They are still a ways out but we know they are coming.”

Jin grabbed his robes.

”No no…you do not understand. She sent her whole army upon you before I killed her. I had never seen so many of them before. Quickly! We do not have much time.”

Augustine caught what Jin said and asked her again just to be certain so Ceolwulf could hear again.

“You killed the Queen, Jin?”

Jin nodded as she looked around, still cradling her arm.

”Yes….I have never seen such an atrocity in my life. She is no longer a plague to Rohan. But now, we must destroy the King. He will be with the army. I do not know what he looks like only that she gave them life and he gave them the will to fight.”

Augustine looked to Ceolwulf.

“Half the battle has already been fought. But the biggest one has yet to happen.”

Standing aside the druid, Ceolwulf was all the more confident. The presence alone of the 'man o' the oak' raised the moral of the men, who had come to believe him to be a godly sign of assured victory. The lord himself was not so sure of their success but he did believe now more than ever they would survive the first wave of the Gorrinvul, but knowing now that the queen's last command was to set her entire army upon them all hope of survival was lost. Ceolwulf only hoped now that they fought so bravely and killed so many of the beast before falling that one might write a song of their struggle that they would be remembered. A pity, the bard had fell. Secretly, Ceolwulf had hoped the Phaerie might sing of their valiant acts, for if any were to survive them he believed it would have been Sorrelwind.

The mist grew denser and the great golem that lumbered slowly toward the keep was now completely obscured from view. They were all aware that it was only a matter of time before it arrived but until then there was the matter of dealing with what Ceolwulf knew now was but a fraction of their force. This meant, that they had to utilize their defenses sparingly so that they would be prepared for the greater army yet to come.

The lord, looked over at his lieutenant, Sabertson. "Spread the word that the Gorrinvul queen had fallen by the hands of the Drowess. Let the men shout their content to the skies above so that these monsters might now that we have no fear of them." He commanded.

"Yes m'lord." Responded Sighere with a bow, then went of to inform the men of their victory.

As loud shouts of merriment echoed through the keep making their small numbers seem more like a hundred, lord Ceolwulf looked the Drowess. "They honor you, Jin of the Drow. We shall not forget what you have done. We are in your debt. Perhaps, Augustine might tend to your arm? The Gorrinvul will soon attempt to scale the walls I they had before and you would serve us better if your arm could be strengthened."

The lord's recommendation seemed sound and Augustine motioned to usher the Drowess off of the rampart and too the great hall where a make-shift hospital existed to tend the wounded. As they made their way down to the lower rampart they were intercepted by the Dwarf.


"Is it true then? Is he dead?" Othargren asked and upon seeing the look of sadness in Jin's eyes bowed his head and accepted the bitter truth.

"He was a fine lad. I will miss 'em." Stated the Dwarf, then stiffening stared up at the crenulations and scowled, "I'll place that wretched Gorrinvul king's head on a pig pole in honor of that leapin' Sprite!"


Tiphereth's eyes shot open. A firm pat on his shoulder had awakened the slumbering bard with a start and there hovering over him was the one eyed Drow. Looking at him, he pondered how he had lost the eye anyway. The wound appeared fresh and he figured that it was a newly acquired injury. At this point, however, Tiphereth did not feel his question would be welcome.

"Come." Said Verin then he strolled out of the chamber and into a long corridor.

Before rising, the bard summoned the power of tallisquetry and several of the tattoos began to writhe across his body and formed into his usual clothing. He then attempted to move. Tentative in his movements he was surprised to find that the pain had subsided greatly after his nap. He was able to sit up with mild discomfort, but walking still agitated the large gouge across his abdomen. Considerately, the Drow slowed his steps so that the injured Phaerie might keep up with his pace as he lead him into a chamber with a large pool of water in it's center.

It wasn't an overly large room and like all the others in what Tiphereth felt at one time was a very regal home, it had decorative archways and elaborate coffered ceilings. It was illuminated by a low fire and four candles that were situated around the pool in locations that the bard knew were aligned with the four directions.

"Do you know what this is?" Asked Verin, gesturing to the crystal clear waters.

Tiphereth nodded. "It is a scrying pool."

"Very good. Yes." The Drow commented, then he produced a small crystal vial of reddish coloured liquid. "This is a vial, of Jin's blood mixed with a special concoction of mine. I took from your jacket before it vanished when it was removed from your person."

Verin poured the contents of the vial into the pool and holding his hand over it, spoke a magical phrase that Tiphereth did not understand. The waters immediately began to stir and then it appeared as if they were standing upon the wall of the keep looking down. Instantly they could see, Jin making her way across the courtyard, but Verin was more interested in finding another. He had only took his sister's blood to look upon the keep and most curiously directed the vision to gaze upon the Rohirrim upon the wall.

"She is not there." Said Verin.

"Who?" Asked Tiphereth.

"The Dragoness." Answered Verin, "She must have accompanied Lac'Nal to Edoras to beckon the assistance of that feeble-minded Human. Fools! They have all the power they require within their midst and they waste precious time to request the support of the king."

"You are speaking of Jalisa?"

"Of course. Who else would I be speaking of? Questioned the Drow with a frustrated glare.

Tiphereth studied the defenses of the keep. Thanks to their magical vantage point, the heavy fog was not as difficult to see through and so the bard took the time to measure their strength and calculate the odds of their survival. How he wanted to be their to assist in the fight, but in his present state he could do little to help.

"You have spent some time with my sister?" Asked Verin, while he studied the vision of the keep hovering over the slightly glowing pool of water. "Who do you feel would survive the fight should you two ever cross swords?"

"We did once." Answered Tiphereth, "It was the first time you and I had ever encountered one another, only during the contest I was not aware it was her and fought only to defend myself."

Verin nodded as he folded his arms across his chest. "Now." He continued, "Let us talk about you."

Hearing Jin's voice, Brianna rushed to where she saw Augustine and Ceowulf standing, then she saw Jin......and heard her words. She stayed back, hearing Ceowulf's words as well. She turned and ran to the armory where she had left her sword to be sharpened and collected it. She was still unsure of herself and where she now belonged, but she was sure of one thing........she would fight beside these people, she....the Dark Rohan..........she would meet this great enemy with her own ferocity.

She reached where the three were standing, Jin, Ceowulf, and Augustine and walked to stand beside Jin. She laid a hand on the Drowess's shoulder, giving her a supportive smile.

"Tiphereth is not like us, Jin. There is still hope...there is always hope. Right now, let us prepare and rid ouselves of this monstrosity once and for all."

Far to the north in the land s of Oron_D_Naar Deep in the mountains of Oron_D_Naar the tallest mountain rumbled and smoke rose from it's summit. deep in it's heart Loki spread his three foot wingspan and stretched his one-hundred foot length, as his eyes slowly opened. Stretching his neck towards the vent that opened to the sky he exhaled slowly. ............................ Sniffing he knew something was not as it should be ........ it was time. Above the peak of the mountain a dark smoke plume rose then transformed to paint the sky above the mountain's summit.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


Lac watched as Jalisa seemed to vanish into the darkness, he then walked to the the great hall where he found Theoden standing in his armour, confering with Hama and Gamling. Off to the side Skarinir held a softly sobbing Aerowyn. The King's face was solem as Lac approached. Lac bowed his head slightly and the King asked "My niece is deep in sorrow and my nephew consolers her. They are here and yet not my son. Tell me Lac'Nala where is my son and why is Elodorf not here?"

Lac looked into the Kings eyes and said "Your son has fallen defending your people at Helm's Deep."

King Theoden's face turned ashen, filled with grief, then his jaw set as he reached for his helmet. "Hama, Gamling gather the Rohirian! Skarinir sound the horns of war!" he barked "We ride within the hour, we ride to glory or we ride to ruin. But if this be our last, then we shall make it a ride that it shall be remembered though out the ages! We ride to Helms Deep!"

Jin heard the shouts from the Rohirrim warriors but it did little to console her troubled heart. She had lost a dear friend this day and the grief she wanted to give into nipped at her heels but she knew now wasn’t the time for it. There would be a place and time for it later. As she followed Augustine towards the make shift medical area and the Dwarf intercepted them, she could only nod to his question. As she moved past him she heard his proclaim of making the Gorrinvul King pay for the misdeeds of the Queen and she found some solace in knowing Tiphereth would be avenged by more than herself.

When the dark haired Rohirrim woman, Brianna, approached, Jin felt the calm, gentle hand on her shoulder and heard Brianna’s words. Turning her eyes to look upon the woman’s face, Jin wanted to tell her how she knew with all the certainty in the world the Deithir bard would not be returning, but she didn’t. In her past years, Jin would have sneered at the woman and taunted her with the truth, taking joy in relaying the gruesome details but now, there was nothing but empty hollowness and it was all Jin could do to not let tears fall down her face. Reaching out and embracing the woman for a brief moment, Jin whispered softly in her ear.

”Your words are welcomed, Brianna. I thank you for them. And yes. Let us prepare to meet the enemy.”

Pulling away from the woman, Jin kept her eye diverted. She didn’t wish Brianna or any of the others from seeing them for she knew they would know the horrid truth. They were going to be severely outnumbered and it would be but a matter of time before they were over run and slaughtered in the most horrific of ways.

With Augustine’s help, the Drowess made it to the infirmary and sat down gingerly on a blood stained table. Wincing a few times as her shoulder pained her; the Druid saw her discomfort and patted her shoulder gently.

“It will be alright, Jin. Your arm will be back to normal soon.”

Jin closed her eyes and exhaled slowly then spoke to the Druid without even opening her eyes.

”I did not see Lac’Nala. I take it he is still held up with the King.”

As Augustine reached into the pouch he wore on his belt, he answered Jin’s question.

“We were in hopes he would have returned by now but we have not seen any sign of him yet.”

Jin nodded.

”He will return. Before it is too late.”

The Drowess’ words held no room for argument and the Druid wondered if she knew something no one else did. The connection she and the Ranger seemed to have was quite strong but with the way she said that, it was almost like she saw into the future. Augustine had heard of people being like that and knew it was possible Jin could very well have that ability. As he stood there pulling out the vial given to him by the water being, he noticed the slash across the upper chest of her leather armor and furrowed his brows even more. He could see the dark tell tale stain of blood. He couldn’t help but wonder how many other injures she had suffered he couldn’t see yet and shook his head.

“That, my good friend, I have no doubt. Here. Drink this. It will help make you as good as new.”

Jin opened her eyes finally and looked up at the Druid. Her face was dirt streaked and there was no doubt she was not the most favorable person to stand near due to the aroma that wafted from her dirty form. The smell of the Gorrinvul permeated the nose and seemed to stay there. Her eyes locked onto Augustines for a moment. She looked more childlike right now than the trained warrioress she was. Glancing down at what he was handing her, Jin recognized the vial and the way it glowed blue, Jin raised her brow and looked up at Augustine again.

”I am forever indebted to you, Augustine.”

Augustine merely smiled more and raised his brows under the hood of his robes. Jin caught his look then accepted the vial and uncorked it. Bringing it to her lips, she took a small sip then put the cork back in it and handed it back to the Druid. Immediately Jin felt the cool water enter her body and her injuries began to heal.

As Jin sat there, she reached across her with her good arm and gingerly touched her injured shoulder. As she felt the pain in her shoulder slowly ebbing away, she began to move it. A little at first and then slowly she moved it in full range motion. Her brows raised and she looked over at Augustine with a small smile.

”Lord Ceolwulf will be happy to know I will be able to wield my sword and what other weapon I should need. Thanks to you, my friend.”

Augustine inclined his head and smiled.

“Always glad to help a friend, Jin. Especially one who has no problem bantering with a solitary Druid.”

Jin’s smile grew then and she eased her small frame off the table and stood next to the Druid, looking up into his handsome face beneath his hood.


”And I look forward to the many more days we have to banter with each other yet to come, Augustine. Thank you again, my friend. Come. Let us go meet these Gorrinvul bastards and show them why they should not cross paths with the likes of us.”

Walking back out of the infirmary with the Druid, Jin sought out Ceolwulf to let him know of the army below the ground set to engage the Gorrinvul should they attempt to breech the keep from within. Finding the Lord back on the ramparts, the Drowess easily scaled the ladder and walked over to the leader of these brave men and women.

”Lord Ceolwulf, as I returned, I encountered many of my brethren. They are in the tunnels under the keep set to engage the Gorrinvul should they attempt to breech the keep from beneath. They are prepared to give their lives to prevent this darkness from overtaking the lands of Rohan. The Dark Lord is using the Gorrinvul to weaken Rohan’s defenses. Even the Drow see how much that will tip the scales unjustly.”

Jalisa walked out of the shadows near the stables of the keep and looked around. All around her there was activity and as she heard the horn in the distance she knew the Gorrinvul were approaching. The attack was merely a matter of time now. The pain in her abdomen was subsiding telling her that what ever had been done to the Deithir to aid in his healing was working. Or the possessor of the other earring was allowing her own powers to aid. Either way she was grateful.

Stepping back intot he shadows, Jalisa disappeared once more then reappeared on the cliff over the Keep looking out over the horizon. The mist was growing and she could hear the strange sound from the contraption the Gorrinvul were using. Narrowing her eyes, she let her dragon eyes look into the darkness and thickening mist and she could barely make out a large, wooden figure.

Blinking, Jalisa wondered what the hell this thing was and once more searched through the knowledge passed down to her from generations past. There, in a deep recessed memory she found what had been blocked form her previously. Gasping softly, she let her mind delve into the knowledge so she would have all the information she needed.

Beyond the Keep, the Gorrinvul were slowly advancing and behind them, a large mass of around 500 fighters emerged from their underground world to join their brothers and sisters.

The Gorrinvul has amassed upon the plains of Rohan with one purpose alone — to destroy the Rohirrim. Their queen was dead, she was their life's blood and all had felt her demise but their king was still very much alive and sought vengeance for the fall of their goddess. He swore that not one of the yellow-hairs would live to see the dawn. Before him were those who had set the assassin's upon his beloved queen, an insignificant handful of warriors; how he would make them suffer, but time was short. The army had yet to march upon Edoras and so they would not be able to take the time to savor the flesh of their enemies, but it would keep.

Breac stood high upon the great golem and uttered an intense scream of pure rage. A low rumble of roars ensued as all the Gorrinvul replied to their sole leader. It was an eerie and unnerving sound that echoed through the mountain pass that lead to the keep and as the distant sound resonated through the keep the initial force of thirty or so undead warriors began to scramble up the western wall.


"THEY ARE ON THE WALLS!" Shouted Sighere, drawing his sword.

The lieutenant pointed to the cauldrons of oil. "Let us burn them off!"

"NO!" Cried Ceolwulf as he came striding over the main wall from the eastern side.

Ceolwulf sprinted past the Dwarf and onto the western ramparts. "We must conserve our defenses." He ordered.

Sighere looked grimly out into the mist and understood. Nodding, he knew then that these few Gorrinvul upon the walls were only a tiny taste of what was to come. Soon the entire army would strike the keep like a tidal wave and they would need everything they had to try and ward them.

"Archers!" Called Sighere.

A few men with bows at the far end of the wall took aim at the shadowy figures in the mist, but the dense fog made their targets difficult to hit.

"We will take them upon the wall. Othargren! We are need of your axe!"

The warriors would have time to deal with the thirty Gorrinvul that preceded the great army. It moved slowly, as the five hundred head of wights kept in pace with the golem. Their titan would attack first, and reduce the gate of the keep to splinters, then they would pour in and destroy their enemy.

As the call for archers went out, Jin quickly moved to look over the wall. The vermin had arrived and these scouts were nothing more than distractions to the real issue at hand. Standing next to the Dwarf, she glanced over at him and offered a solemn nod.

”We shall see Tiphereth’s murderers pay for the deeds of their abomination of a Queen.”

Pulling her crossbow from her cloak, the Drowess uttered soft words in her native tongue. The bolt on her cross bow began to glow an eerie color and when she fired off the shot the Gorrinvul it hit exploded into a several chunks of rotten flesh. Glancing over at the Dwarf again she had a sinister smile on her face.

”Your turn, Master Othargren.”

The Dwarf puffed out his chest and looked hard at the Drowess.

"Pickin' them off o'the walls is hardly sport Elf!" Hollered the Dwarf as he cleaved his axe into the chest of a rising Gorrinvul. The creature that was once a woman shrieked as black blood erupted from her mouth but even with the heavy blade deep in her chest she continued to attack. She thrust her dagger had into the Dwarf's belly, but it never hit it's mark. Othargren's large hand caught her arm and with one powerful pull tore it from the socket. He then spun around and swung his axe with the Gorrinvul still impaled upon it directly it another that leapt upon the crenulation. The force of blow knocked the other off of the wall and shook his axe free of the undead scum. Both fell, sixty feet to the ground where their bones cracked and they lay writhing on the ground futilely attempting to stand.

Two near by Rohirrim warriors were overwhelmed by six of the wights who seemed to materialize out of the mist and the Dwarf wasted no time. He charged toward them with a loud Dwarven battle cry and wrapped his burly arms around the legs of two of the creatures taking the off the ground. The added weight hardly slowed him down, and he continued to barrel through another, dipping his head low and driving his helmut hard into the creature's back. He tossed the other two over the wall and in one smooth motion brought up his axe and hacked the third one's head in half, from chin to forehead.

"That's five, Dark Elf!" Announced Othargren as he searched through the mist for more Gorrinvul to hack apart.


Further along the western wall, Ceolwulf waded fearlessly into a horde of Gorrinvul that had gathered at the far end. How many there were he could not tell, nor did he care. The warrior took the arm of the first wight that attacked, and as the second parried his powerful swing, the shear forced of the blow threw the creature to the side as he drove into a third and fourth that charged madly toward him.

Sighere was behind, finishing off what his giant lord left behind but he quickly lost sight of him in the thick fog.

Jin knew she’d found the perfect outlet for her to take her mind off the encroaching Gorrinvul army. Competition with the Dwarf is just what she needed. As she watched the small but muscular form of the dwarf hack away at the Gorrinvul, Jin once more set her cross bow and the strange bolts to work.

As the Rohirrim warriors worked at slashing and hacking the Gorrinvul that took the leading edge of the army, Jin and Othargren did their best to keep track of the ones they had sent to hell. And as of right now, the Dwarf had her beat by two.

Jin looked over just in time to see one of the Gorrinvuil leap over the last few feet of the wall and lunge at the Dwarf with it’s own axe held high, aiming to cleave the stout form in half. Without thinking, Jin fired the bolt from her cross bow causing the soldier to explode….all over Othargren. As the Dwarf wiped the black, stinking ooze of fhis face and turned to glare at her, she shrugged and tried not to smile.

“I did not wish to be the only one with this stench on them like this around here. Besides....your armor is way too clean and the Gorrinvul are using it as a target. If you had used leather armor like I do, you would n ot have this issue.”

She said it in her most haughty voice and the look she received from the huffing Dwarf was well worth it. Hearing him bellow at her merely brought a smile to her youthful face and she quickly reminded him of their competition.

”That brings the total to eight for me, Dwarf.”

"Awk!" Grumbled the Dwarf shaking the black ooze from his grizzly face, "Watch where yer shootin' lass!"

He pulled his axe free of another Gorrinvul. "Seven....". He stifled his words when Jin announced her eighth kill. This only made the Dwarf even more bearish as he took off into the mist further along the western rampart where Sighere and Ceolwulf had disappeared.

The sound's of battle became clearer as he ran blind. The mist was now so thick it made his own axe difficult to see clearly. There was the distinct sound of a sword cutting the air and the Dwarf expertly moved to the side and countered, halting his axe only an arrowhead's width from Sighere's throat.

"Ye damn fool!" Roared the Dwarf as he reached out and grabbed the Rohirrim warrior by his girdle. Othargren tossed him to the side like a rag doll, but this was only to save the lieutenant from certain death as a Gorrinvul emerged from the mist swinging a great two handed sword. The heavy blade just missed, Sighere's head, and the Dwarf buried his axe in the creature's face. As the undead warrior slumped to it's knees another appeared thrusting a spear which the Dwarf caught with his meaty hand then split it in two with a swing of his axe. The thing was then upon him, slashing with its claws and biting his armour but doing little damage. Othargren, merely reached out and grabbed the Gorrinvul by the throat and drove the fist holding his axe into the creature's face. Its head snapped back but was hardly effected by the concussion so next he crushed the Gorrinvul's skull against his helmet and discarded limp monster.

Othargren then turned to Sighere. "Keep yer head!" he ordered.

Sighere's wild eyes focused and he nodded. The Dwarf then pressed onward, but paused for a moment and looked behind him into the blinding mist. He knew not where the Dark Elf was but he was sure she could hear him.

"NINE!"

Brianna had run into the fray, her sword taking the heads of Gorrinvul that were too close as she whirled and parried, thrusted and stabbed. She heard Othargren and Jinn yelling numbers back and forth to each other and smiled at their antics as she watched the dwarf disappear into the mist behind Ceowulf and Sighere. She found Jin and saw another Gorrivul fall beneath her arrows and grinned as she blocked a blow from a particularly large Gorrinvul with a two handed sword. She felt the blow clear up to her shoulder and winced as she threw the blade off of her own and spinning her blade cut deep into the midsection of the beast, splattering dark blood over her. But the damn thing kept coming. Brianna took a step back and swinging again cut him in half. She watched as his top half kept coming at her, using one arm to drag itself while the other hand gripped the sword. She rushed him, took a leap and as she leapt over the top half of his moving body, she sliced with her sword, cutting his head in half.

She didn't wait to see what happened to the thing, knowing he was not moving as she ran into the mist behind the dwarf. She chuckled as she watched him toss Sighere to the side before taking out the Gorrinvul that would have taken Sighere's head.

"WELL DONE, DWARF!!!! HOW MANY ARE YOU UP TO NOW?!!"

She turned just in time to block another blow from an axe wielding Gorrinvul, the blow knocking her to the ground. Raising her blade, she blocked the blow that would have opened her chest, screaming in rage at him as she saw another blade swing, taking the beast's head. A hand reached down to help her up and she smiled at the Rohirrim warrior before turning to engage another.

The Drowess was glad to see the dark haired woman Brianna join in this fight. She’d been through quite a bit. As Jin saw her blade take out a few Gorrinvul, she knew the woman was able to handle herself. The mist was so thick Jin couldn’t see the few feet before her so when she heard something charging at her, she pulled her cross bow up and prepared to fire. Her finger was already pulling the trigger back when she suddenly saw the blonde hair of a Rohirrim and released her finger. He tripped and fell at her feet and looked up at her with fear in his gaze.

”You fool…I nearly….”

Before she could finish her sentence she saw why he was running. His blade was stuck in the belly of a large Gorrinvul and the thing kept charging. Its rotted arm held high and in its boney hand was it’s own blade. Jin stepped between the charging Gorrinvul and the fallen Rohirrim and put her right foot slightly behind her as she leaned forward. Grabbing the hilt of the stuck blade in her left hand with a grip that seemed to tight for her petite size, she uttered those strange words in her native language again and halted the Gorrinvul where he stood, unable to move. With that sinister smile back on her face, she tilted her head as she saw his white eyes look at her full of hatred.

”Your unnatural life is now over.”

Raising her cross bow, she fired the bolt and the thing exploded into that black, oozing stench. The exploding Gorrinvul pieces peppered her but she didn’t care. What was more stink on top of what she already had? As soon as the beast exploded the Rohirrim’s blade was freed and Jin twirled in a dance like movement, tossing the blade up and grasping it by the blade carefully. Handing it, hilt first, to the fallen Rohirrim, she smiled at him and actually winked.

”Your blade, m’lord. I suggest you hurry to your feet with it for I hear more coming.”

The Rohirrim blinked at the Drowess and grabbed his blade uttering a soft thank you as he scrambled to his feet. And just in time. From both sides Jin and the Rohirrim warrior were attacked and both quickly dispatched their attackers. The Rohirrim turned and looked at Jin with a smile on his face.

“We make quite the team, you and I. I am honored to fight by your side.”

Jin scoffed then quickly raised her bow towards the Rohirrim and fired off a shot that whizzed by his head. Her bolt hit another Gorrinvul and it exploded behind him. His eyes grew wide when she raised her crossbow at him and barely had time to blink when the bolt was fired. He was getting ready to curse at her when he raised his blade like he was going to strike her down. His sword sliced through the side of a Gorrinvul’s head. When he rushed Jin, she side stepped and whirled around and saw his killing blow. When he looked back to her she was grinning broadly.

”Well…it appears as though we DO make a good team. Let us see how many more we can send to hell.”

As she and the other warrior engaged more Gorrinvul, she yelled out into the mist knowing the Dwarf would hear her just as she heard his count.

ELEVEN!

When the Dwarf heard the Dark Elf call out her count at eleven he grumbled to himself in his own tongue. Surely there had to be more of vermin about to increase his tally but as he came to the end of the western wall, he found only the form of giant man standing in the mist. The hacked and bleeding bodies of at least eight Gorrinvul were at his feet and breathing heavily, Ceolwulf turned and looked down at the Dwarf.

"All clear my Dwarven brother." he stated.

The scouts had been dispatched but they were only a testing toe of the beast yet to come. Soon the golem and a force five hundred strong would descend upon them and wipe them from Middle Earth. They all knew this but it did not stop the lord and the Dwarf from offering up a roar of triumph to let the Gorrinvul and perhaps the gods know that they still lived and breathed.


Sorrelwind sat at the edge of the scrying pool. The images of the battle had faded for it could not sustain the view for an extended period of time, but he and Verin and seen enough.

"It is time." said Verin, "What is your decision?"

Tiphereth tentatively rose to his feet, holding his abdomen. He and the Dark Elf had spoke for some time on the matter and learned he was more driven than maniacal, a common misconception he imagined. While they talked he weighed the options in his mind and every road lead to one destination.

"Let us begin." Answered the Deithir.

As the horns of Rohan sounded, a determined and grief stricken faced Theoden rode out from the gates of Edoras. At his side rode Gamling and Hama and behind them followed a force of fifteen hundred Rohirians. As Lac, Jorneff and Skajrnir mounted their horses, Lac noticed a young fair faced warrior ride past. The young warriors face, though partially obscured by the helms he wore, was delicate and smooth, the warriors frame appeared slight to Lac.

Lac mounted Lightning and he, Jorneff and Skajrnir rode swiftly to the front of the coloum and joined King Theoden, Gamling and Hama. "We must hard hard and swift My Lord." he said to King Theoden. "We must reach Helms Deep by the time the full moon shines brightly over the Keep."
Lac then turned to Gamling and said "Your warriors are clean and polished bright. Mark that they keep them so."

The galloping force of Rohirians were soon joined by another two thousand riders as the galloped across the Hornburg towards Helms Deep.


***********************************

Meanwhile deep within Oron_D_Naar a form rose, with only the sound of a stirring wind, from the mountain. It stood on the peak, stretched its neck and roared, then lept from the peak, circled the mountain peak three times, gaining altitude then flew south across the borders of Oron_D_Naar.

Hearing the roar, within the walls of the land of Oron_D_Naar yet another force came to life. The sound of horns and gongs began to fill the air and lights were lit along the watchtowers. As warriors, farmers, smiths, cooks, bakers and tradesmen of all sorts across the lands began to gather their families, children, their weapons, their flocks, their grain, livestock and produce. They began to make their way towards the gates of the inner walls. The people of Oron_D_Naar began to answer a call. A call that had not been heard in an age. A call they had prayed would never be heard again.

Tiphereth drank deep from the ornate chalice and let the mixture of blood and wine flow down his throat. It was the final stage of the ritual, the part that sealed the binding and as the concoction of his own blood and that of Verin's entered his body the Phaerie could feel part of him slip away. Suddenly the sorrows, the guilt, the longings fell from him as autumn leaves upon the wind.

Verin grinned evilly. Now that he possessed the Phaerie, the Dragon-token that was imprinted upon his skin was his as was she who had no choice but to answer to their call. Jalisa's will could now be bent by the conniving Drow and Dragoness gasped aloud as she felt the strings tighten.

The Dark Elf waved his hand, beckoning Tiphereth to come forth. "Kneel." He told him.

The Deithir, fully aware of all around him followed the order. If he so chose, he could have attempted to resist but why? Verin had rid him of his burdens. He had freed him and now in return he freely offered his fealty and now called Verin, 'Master'.

"We shall have to further deal with that wound." Commented Verin, taking note of his minion's labored movement, "Your uses are limited while injured, but you yet offer me control of one the most powerful creatures in all of creation. A Dragon!"

Verin tilted his eyes slightly down toward, Tiphereth's bowed head. "A great Dragon soars upon the winds far to the north. He has not risen for many years but now he once more shadows the skies. His power is great, but so to is the strength of the Dragoness who follows my sway. Together we shall bring down this most powerful creature and then all shall know of and fear the name, Verin!"

”No….”

As Jalisa stood a top the cliff that overlooked the Keep and the approaching Gorrinvul army, the word was whispered so softly onto the wind no one would have heard it even if they were standing next to her. The sapphire eyes she normally possessed were now red and glowing. She could feel the binding of the Fey to the Drow and she felt the grasp the Drow had on her increase. She didn’t know the specifics of the ritual that was performed but she did know the Fey had given up his will freely to the Drow and with it, his ability to possess her.

Knowing what ever the Drow had in mind was not what she wanted, Jalisa also knew there was nothing she could do to stop what ever she was going to do when they arrived. It was just a matter of time. She couldn’t even transform to fly away and escape leaving the brave warriors of Rohan to fend for themselves. Or transform to aid them as she had hoped.

But there was something else Jalisa recognized as well. Because she was a black dragon, she was very susceptible to those of corruption. Had it not been for Loki, she would have most likely tormented and terrorized Oran_D_Naar until they faced off against each other. And even now, she can feel that sense of duty to Loki and Lac’Nala beginning to slip.

Heaven help Rohan now. If the Drow got within the proximity needed to have full control over her, she would have no choice but to bend to his will. And that was scarier that knowing the Fey and Drow had come to the agreement they had.

The tall Rohirrim lord stared grimly out into the fog. Nothing could be seen beyond the flickering halos of the torch light but the sounds of hundreds of soldiers stirring echoed clearly through the channel. Then they all heard the heavy steps approaching and knew that only one thing could make such thunderous footfalls... the golem. Only when it was in striking distance to the gate did they see it's fiery eyes through the mist, followed by a loud crash as the thing's large hand struck the portcullis. The barred gate flexed and shook, generating vibrations though the archway above upon which stood Ceolwulf and the anxious Dwarf.

"Protect the gate!" Ordered Ceolwulf.

The golem was immense in size but the walls yet doubled it's height and so the warriors upon it were safe from its wrath but the enormous wicker-man animated by the bodies of hundreds of Gorrinvul packed into it cared only about the gate. It send a second powerful blow into the barred gate and it near buckled under the strain.

Ceolwulf peered through the fog at the thing as it battered the portcullis. So heavy were its hits that it shook the stones of wall and soon the Rohirrim feared that it would breach the gate and they would be overrun in a matter of moments. It would only take a few more hits, and the great golem reached an arm back for another earth quaking punch but as it drew back its fist a golden glowing stream of burning oil spilled down from the top of the wall.

The hot fiery oil struck the creatures chest and engulfed the beast in flames but still it came and drove it's giant fist hard into the gate, twisting the metal. Breac was safe beneath a canopy, which deflected the oil and the fire that raged across the creature's flesh began to quickly extinguish. For some reason, it would not burn!

"Ready the ballista's!" Roared the Dwarf and as he bellowed, the two giant cross bows, each sitting atop the eastern and western towers attempted to target the monster but they couldn't see a thing.

The mist was far too heavy for ranged attacks, and the warrior's knew then that they would have no choice but to engage the golem in melee. Doing so would of course be suicide, for even they could fight their way through the hordes of Gorrinvul, they would then have to put their swords to the legs of the giant which most believed would be futile.

Jin felt the walls of the Keep shudder under the force of the golem. When it first appeared she was transfixed on the enormity of the thing as she saw how the Gorrinvul used their bodies to propel it where they wanted it to go. But when the first hit came, it shook her out of her shock and she made her way with the others to fortify the gate.

Where was Lac’Nala? They could use his help. Had he been successful in securing reinforcements? If so, why had they not arrived yet? Jin knew what lie in wait behind the golem. She’d seen them as they swarmed out of the belly of the Hell the Queen had forced them to live in. Even now she shuddered as she remembered the Queen and her chamber. Thankful she didn’t end up as one of her subjects, she felt a pang knowing she had to leave Tiphereth behind.

She could only hope and pray her dear friend had somehow been spared from becoming consumed by the vengeful Gorrivul. As another hit came and the hot oil was doused over the golem, her thoughts wee interrupted. Seeing how the golem refused to burn, Jin uttered a curse under her breath.

The odds were stacked against them and the more Jiin realized this, the more she hoped that Lac wouldn’t return without help else he fall with the rest of them. At least if he lived, he could reach Oran_D_Naar and somehow fortify his own lands.

Jalisa watched with fascination as she searched through the fog and located the golem. Even with her dragon sight she found it difficult to see the thing. But what she found even more interesting were the ballista’s that were readied. They were huge. Big enough to bring down a dragon, indeed. She knew if she were to ever take true form, she would have to avoid those wicked weapons if she were to survive.

Feeling the pull of the one who had control of her now, Jalisa growled softly. She would let the Fey know just how much she disapproved of his choice of masters. She was certain she could have convinced him to do what she needed his to do but now, there was no way she would have her freedom again.

As the golem hit the gats of the Keep, she stood observing as a spectator, not caring either way how things went. More of her sense of duty was slipping away the longer the Drow remained in control of her. Perhaps it wouldn’t be so bad. He may just let her have SOME freedom and beckon her when he needed a heavy hand. But he had another thing coming to him if he thought he’d get ANY of her treasure.

Feeling something cold against her skin, Jalisa looked down to see the pendant hanging from her neck glowing softly. Loki had awakened and he knew something was amiss. Furrowing her brows, she knew now why the dragon had given her the necklace to wear. He was a crafty one, she had to give him that much.

Reaching up to remove the necklace, she yelped in pain as her fingers received quite the shock when she touched the delicate chain. Another soft growl slipped from her lips. This was not going to go well at all.

For anyone.

The moon was but a silvery cat's eye this night but in the dull glow the silhouette of a great winged creature was yet visible to those who might chance to look up into the black sky. The bird-like creature was darker than all else about it, blacker than even the flesh of the Drow it carried beneath it. As they drew near to low mountain peak that overlooked the mist shrouded valley which was home to the Rohirrim keep, the shadowy bird creature lowered it's wings and transformed back into Verin's black cape as he landed lightly upon the cliff side.

He could feel her now. The heart beat of the Black Dragon pumped in unison to his own and her strength coursed through his veins. This was power! This was what the Drow lord had been waiting for, what it shame it would be when the time came to sacrifice it but how else would be able to bring down the great Loki. It was he that Verin had set his eye upon. He cared nothing for this Dragon of Darkness within his power, she was but a means to an end, as was the Fey. Chess pieces in this grand game and soon he would place the king in check.

There would be much planning now, between this moment and his final move. There was much to do and Jalisa would be a great part of his schemes as would Sorrelwind. These unforeseen assets would indeed help him to achieve to his goal, even help him stand against, Morgoth himself, and once the mighty Loki fell the Dark Lord himself would recoil at his shadow.

"Jalisa." Verin whispered upon the wind. It was an inaudible call, one that only the Dragoness and perhaps the Fey that was bound to him would hear.

"Jalisa. Your master is here. Leave these fools to their demise and join me."

Verin's command could not be disobeyed. To struggle against the will of the one who possessed the Dragon tokens would cause great pain. Pain so great the Dragoness would beg for death, but she would not receive it. Jalisa had to obey and her from was yet restricted to her Human guise. For whatever reason, Verin did not want her revealing her true nature yet.

A malicious grin tugged at the side of Verin's thin lips. How fortuitous that this newest piece on his board had become such a trustworthy companion of his sister. Most fortunate indeed. He would take great pleasure in seeing the horror in Jin's eyes when her friend betrayed her. Then once and for all she would know her place was at the dirt under Verin's boots. That he was the master. He was the chosen one!

He was here. As dreadful yet anxious she had been for this moment, it was finally here. And now that it was, she looked at the way the Rohirrim warrior fought bravely against a foe they simply could not win against. She felt pity for them. Those who didn’t realize this was the last night of their human lives. And she felt anger at those who did know yet let the others move forward as though nothing was wrong.

Jalisa stopped breathing when she heard her name in the male Drow voice drift to her on the wind. Her eyes grew wide when she heard his voice command her to come to him. Determined to wait until the last possible second, she felt the pain wrack her body so badly she couldn’t help but cry out and drop to her knees. She knew then she had no choice left within her. Her will was his and what ever he demanded of her is what she would have to do. She would have no choice. If she tried to disobey him or even attack him she would fall victim to such pain it would render her motionless.

Clutching her chest as she forced herself to her feet, Jalisa turned to glare up to the cliff above her. Panting as she fought off another wave of pain, she glanced over her shoulder at the battle below in the Keep then faded from view. When she faded back into view, she was standing about ten feet behind Verin as he stood overlooking the inevitable decimation of the last of Rohan’s finest warriors. Lowering her hands to her sides and curling her hands into tight fists, she growled softly as she spoke to him in barely over a whisper.

”For the record, I care not for the fact you are the one in control. But I know there’s nothing that can be done about it right now. So as a gesture of good faith, I would ask you to allow me to aid these people and then…..”

Jalisa clenched her jaw as her red eyes bored into Verin’s disfigured face.

”…..what ever you need of me….”

Verin turned slowly toward Jalisa. His one eye looked her up and down as he took a few strides forward while listening to her one last request. He looked at the mist pondering her plea, then stared back at her and responded in a most curious fashion.

"You will aid, the Rohirrim, Jalisa." He told her, "You will aid them as you are so that you might know the sting of defeat. These wights can mangle your corpse, but they will not destroy you, at least not while the Fey lives. He is a most remarkable creature. There is far more to him than meets the eye and while he remains alive so shall you."

Verin cast a malevolent grin as Jalisa came to the realization that she was now immortal.

"I alone can end your life, Dragoness. Remember that and know that you will now be a match for old Loki, but you need not concern yourself with that at the moment. Right, now I would like you to concentrate on my dear sister. She trusts you, and I would like you to continue to nurture your relationship, but I would also like you to become closer with the ranger. Act as though nothing has changed and continue with your mission, when the time is right, I shall tell thee my plan. Keep them alive as they yet have roles to play. And do not try to warn them for I shall know! Betray me, and I shall make you dream of death. Are we understood?"

Verin stood at the edge of the cliff, his dark cape fluttering in the wind against the soft greenish glow of the Gorrinvul mist. He had given, Jalisa her wish, but to what end?

”You son of a bi...."

Jalisa moved threateningly towards Verin only to feel that intense pain wrack her body again before she got close enough to do any physical harm to the Drow. Once more she gasped and let out a yelp of pain then stumbled back to put more space between them.

”I will enjoy seeing your flesh stripped from your body while you scream in pain.”

Her red eyes glowed with the intense hatred she now felt for the male. He was extremely lucky Jalisa was unable to get close to him to do any harm to him for if she could, she would have gladly given away her secret to hear his screams while she ripped the flesh from his worthless body.

”Loki is no push over. He’s twice as old as I am and twice as elusive. Even with your pathetic assistance I will not be a fair match for him. You have chosen me for a suicide mission.”

She growled viciously.

”No wonder your sister hates you so much. I hope she gets the chance to watch your suffering. I hope she gets to participate in it.”

The near future that lay ahead of her was filled with nothing but misery. While she would do what he’d tasked her to do, she would do all she could to try and carry out this mission, what she worried about most was the fact she knew once she started into the field of deception for malevolent reasons, she knew she would lose more of the sense of right and wrong she’d gained over the past year.

”Fine. I’ll do what you order me to do since I’ve no other choice in the matter. But know this, Drow, one day you will not hold the reins that control me right now. And when that day comes, you will not be able to hide from me. No matter how far beneath the surface you travel. This bond you so enjoy right now will be the death of you. This I promise you.”

Verin seemed to delight in the Dragoness' idle threats. When she was done baring her fangs, his luminescent eyes met her equally red and more fiery gaze.

"I am aware of Loki's strength my dear, but he has one weakness; one alone that will lead to his demise." He told her and paused, awaiting the curiousity to well up within her until he smugly answered it.

"Trust." Verin said with a sinister grin, "He trusts you and I shall use that to 'our' advantage."

Verin's eyes then looked Jalisa up and down, then he advanced toward her in three smooth steps. He raised his hand to her cheek and as the woman recoiled with utter hatred and revulsion the Drow laughed. He extended his index finger and waved it back and forth before her in a teasing manner, taunting her as one might a vicious dog upon a chain. She was hardly a dumb animal, however, Verin knew this and in truth he had the upmost respect for her and her kind, but Loki had something that he needed and never in his wildest dreams did the Drow imagine that the leash of a Black Dragon would fall into his hands. He would be a fool not to take advantage of this, and the outlander-Fey.

"I wonder why you chose such a form, Jalisa? Is it of your making, or the inner humanoid semblance that resides beneath your scales? Whatever... it is a most attractive shell, even if it is Human."

Verin laughed again as Jalisa was obviously repulsed by what it seemed he was alluding to.

"We are not so different, you and I. You know this. How could you not? All your long years must have given you some insight and so you must realize it even now my Black Dragon. Am I not right? You can feel it, can't you? The freedom I offer you. Freedom to do what it is in your nature to do."

Verin turned away and walked back toward the cliff's edge before, Jalisa could respond then he continued speaking with his back to her. "Go!" He commanded, "Go back to your so called friends and play your role. A role, thrust upon you by Loki. Remember, Jalisa when you seek to point that accusing clawed finger, that it was he and not I who originally placed you upon this path. You know as well as I that if they and the Rohirrim knew what you were they would try to kill you right then and there where you stand."