2: ACROSS THE PLAINS OF AZANULBIZAR

Jack stopped and listened to Tiphereth before stepping forward. "If you wish I can fall back to where she is and bring her closer if not all the way back with the group. That is if she won't mind travelling the ethereal realm for a short time."

Tiphereth pondered the shade's suggestion and looked to the silent ranger who merely cast him a concerned look. He understood his mind and agreed, "Jack," he began in his usual calm manner, "we must no separate. Even in the ethereal realm there are many dangers as you are aware of. The Wraiths walk the grey world and it would be unwise to risk facing them alone." The outlander turned once more to the ranger, who was preparing to continue their journey, his face determined and eyes focused on the road ahead. "Ultimately, the choice is yours. Stay or go, you face the same perils I fear."

The Deithir turned away, his golden orange locks flashing in the sunlight as the tresses caught a gust of wind. He was sure then that there were few leagues left between them and the Golden Wood. 'How would they receive him?', he wondered. His tongue curled around one his elongated incisors, a trait that defined his kind, a remnant of their dark origin; a past the Elves would sense and judge.

The unlikely companions, jogged across a grassy knoll, where Lac halted, under the leaves of the forest’s mighty trees. Belgegir, turned to Brianna, Tiphereth, The Ghost Walker and Ssinjin and says quietly ......”Stay close my friends! It is said that a great and powerful sorceress lives in these woods. An Elf Witch of terrible power. All who look upon her, fall under her spell ..........”

Ssinjin’s hair flutters softly as a female voice speaks softly to her mind......”Ssinjin Priestess of the Drow House of K'Nyan, Priestess in Training of Eilistraee” Ssinjin looks around startled as her hand instinctively moves slowly to one of her daggers.

The female voice then fills Brianna’s mind .... "Brianna of the Dunedain, do not let your heart be filled with sorrow, I know why you grieve.”

Beldegir then continued ..... “ and are never seen again.”

The voice of Galadriel speaks again to Ssinjin’s mind as a vision of a pair of eyes flash before her eyes........ “Your coming to us is as the foot steps of doom. You bring great and terrible evil here Priestess!”

Ssinjin halts abruptly.

Beldegir then says “I have the eyes of a hawk and the ears of a fox.” Suddenly, an arrow notched appears inches before his face. “Oh.” he says as other bows with notched arrows appear around the group of travelers. They all look around alarmed as they realize that they are surrounded. Lac holds up his left hand, a sign to stay their weapons and remain calm.

A tall golden haired Elf appears and says ....... “The dwarf breathes so loudly we could have shot him in the dark.” ...... Beldegir stares narrowly at the Elf and grumbles inaudibly under his breath. As the group stands on a platform in the rustling foliage, Haldir greets them.



Looking at Tiphereth he says “Wenestalirciruossamaeev Taeistpernhiledrayestatorhir, daeisasiltinartanartae karninnae othfar taehireva liralanarda orfae tynhinev Panhinarthaetha.” ( Welcome Tiphereth, distant kin of the land of the Phae.)

Tiphereth, although taken aback slightly by the cordial welcome, bowed his head slightly and said .... Othuthaeren falethaloronolwissatahalithpan imsay istnae yaothunerel dayeldabrantir, Halarthalaedaeistirub osfor Laeothrayimevanar,” (We are in your debt, Haldir of Lorien.)

Haldir then brought his gaze to Lac and says.... “Orhal, Linarcel’Nayartlinarta othfal Othrayornar_Da_Nayanalrae, yorossauthu kelnayossawilnae taeothunesil.” ( Oh. Lac’Nala of Oron_D_Narr, you are known to us.)

Lac bowed his head, placing the fist of his right hand to his heart ..... “Hirarthlisdaeisitril.” (Haldir) he said respectfully.

Beldegir glared at the Elf and said grufly .... “So much for the legendary courtesy of the Elves. ....... Speak words we can all understand! Ya pointed eared tree dweller.”

Haldir looked impassively at Beldigir ..... “We have not had DEALINGS with dwarves since the dark days.”


Beldegir snorted at Haldir and said....”And do you know what this Dwarf says to that? ..... Ishkarwi ai durugnul! ( I spit on your grave.)

Lac turned suddenly and grabbed Beldegir looking him sternly in the eye and said “That! Was not so courteous.

Haldir then looked at Ssinjin and said ...”Your bring great evil with you.“ He then turned to Lac and said “You may go no further.” with finality in his voice and walked away.

Lac stepped quickly over to Haldir and quietly argued with him angrily .... “Winevnaeevestadel yisossauthaeril pirrelortynethacurtilnornay. Tynhurelda rinossaarthuday istastar finevalaylis. “ (We need your protection the road is fell.) Haldir whispers back inaudibly.

Lac continues to argue ... “Isti wilimsayhal weletha minathya cirossamaeelda welistatinham youroruthae.” ( I wish we may come with you.)

Haldir answers back so that only Lac can hear him.

“Pirlineldarthsareld uthaeneldaethraysartilthundara wynesta neleldaevdae yidothuthuril satauthpirpirorraytor.” (Please understand we need your support.) .......Lac continues to argue with Haldi loudly “Tynhiletha rilothathdae ististar valkevrenyir datartnarglineeldraeothuthusir.” ( The road is very dangerous.)

Haldir walks over to the group looking less than happy, accompanied by Lac and said ...... “You will follow me.” .........................


A caravan of Elves led the group along a ridge, through the “Golden Woods”. Brianna glanced back at Ssinjin as she was escorted by three Elves, one on each side and one behind her. The group soon comes to the end of the high ridge and look out across the canopy. A great glade of trees rises above them. Haldir’s expression changed to one of joy and pride....... Casa Galdahon, the very Heart of Elvendom on earth. Realm of Lord Celeborn and of Lady Galdriel, the Lady of Light.

As they enter deeper into the woods Jack is hit with another flash of memory, stopping him dead in his tracks. An elf nudges him forward but the ghostwalker does not move. He sees the warrior moving through these very woods unescorted. There is a quick glimpse of an elven woman and then the pain returns to his abdomen. Jack doubles over in pain, the bulk of his weight going against a tree. "What is happening?"

Tiphereth was awe struck by the beauty of Casa Gladahon, a city whose beauty rivaled even the great structures of the Daeyel of his own world. He nodded his appreciation to Haldir of being allowed to see such a marvel and carried on lightly though the mystical forest.



It was strange for the Deithir to be among these people whom he felt a kin-ship with, although he would not dare to insult them so to speak of it. His kind knew their place, and it was in the shadow of the greater race, the Daeyel. A people very much like these Elves but tainted with the memories of the acts committed by his ancestors.

Perhaps it was here in this magical place that he would find the answers he sought. If they knew of him and his world than surely they may be able to provide him with direction.

Jin traveled until she thought her feet and legs would fall off her body. Not stopping to drink or eat, she simply pulled her water skin up t her lips as she moved on and nibbled on jerky and dried fruit as she moved on. It was several hours later when she finally caught sight of Lac’Nala and the others as they grew close to the Golden Woods.

Still moving onward, she felt a sense of trepidation wash over her as the dark woods loomed before her. Never had one of her kind been allowed to venture into these woods. Never had they even considered it. This was considered hallowed ground by the surface Elves and to think of stepping foot into it was something the Drow would never consider.

Sending Lac’Nala a whispered message, he halted the group long enough for her to reach them. There was no doubt she was exhausted and the physical evidence of her journey was visible to all of them. The dark splotches of dried blood on her clothes, the ripped off arm of her tunic wrapped around the scratches on her arm and dust and dirt covering her clothes, she looked like quite the vagabond. Lac had moved forward to say something but she held her hand up to stop him.

“We will talk later, Ranger. I believe you were about to lead us into this place.”

There was no malice in her words just matter of fact truth. Knowing Lac would talk with her later indeed, Jin motioned for him to continue on for stopping now could be disastrous for all of them. The coolness of the trees canopy greeted her almost immediately and she was more than thankful for that. But something immediately didn’t set well with her. Reaching up and pulling her hood over her head, she stopped in mid move. A feminine voice filled her mind and Jin gasped softly but audibly.

”Ssinjin Priestess of the Drow House of K'Nyan, Priestess in Training of Eilistraee”

Jin hand moved to one of her many daggers and her hand had just closed around the hilt of one of them starting to pull it free from her harness when she heard the voice in her mind again this time followed with the vision of a pair of eyes.

“Your coming to us is as the foot steps of doom. You bring great and terrible evil here Priestess!”

Jin’s hand halted immediately for she knew this had to be the mysterious Elf Witch that ruled these woods and there was nothing she or her magic could do to protect herself. Slowly lowering her hand she had just got the thought to turn and exit these woods when the whole group suddenly found themselves surrounded by a group of weapon wielding Elves.

When the leader of these Elves came forward and conversed with Lac and the others, she took note he pretty much ignored her. But when he told her she brought great evil here and then stated they weren’t allowed to go any further, she clenched her jaw tight and uttered under her breath in her native language.

As Lac pleaded their case with the arrogant Elf, Jin glared at the man. When he finally relented and allowed them to enter, Jin felt herself nudged from behind as three Elves took up positions next to her and behind her. Snapping around at the one who nudged her, she practically snarled at him.

“Do not touch me.”

As they were led further into the woods and the city was revealed to them, Jin blinked as her eyes grew wide at the marvelous city the Elves had created here for themselves. It was every bit as beautiful as the underground cities she had seen in her world. So taken with the place was Jin that she had stopped moving only to be reminded she would continue on and stop only when told to stop by another nudge from behind. Once again she snapped around and glared at the Elf.

“Does deafness run in your race, shinduago duenhug?” (surface dweller)

The Elf glared back and nudged her once more to keep moving and she jerked her shoulder away from the Elf to keep moving with the others.

“Dos ssrig'luin ulu tlu keer valyrs, jaluk” (you need to be taught manners, male)

When they were finally halted, Jin was left separated from the rest of the group and this time a fourth Elf joined the others creating a circle of guards around the Drowess. Not liking what she was seeing, she knew what was going to be the next thing that happened and she wasn’t happy. Being locked up, no matter how luxurious the accommodations, was not exactly what she was looking forward to.

Once he came back to his senses Jack started moving again, slowly. His wound still ached as he moved through the forest to rejoin the others. The elf that had stayed with him watched the ghostwalker curiously. Suddenly Jack is overcome with pain and he fades away from sight, leaving a rather stunned elf standing there alone.

Tiphereth watched as the Elves surrounded the Drowess but kept silent. Were he the one that these noble folk found necessary to contain he would trust their judgment and so he remained a bystander.

'There is no evil in Lothlorien, save that which one brings them.' a voice whispered in his mind, a mystical reminder that let the Deithir know that no harm would befall Jin unless she provoked it. He prayed such would not be the case, as he feared, against so many bows and blades, the fight would be a short one. But should it come to that, he would not fight. Haldir, had embraced him as kin a gesture not so readily offered even by the Daeyel (a race much like the Elves, that might even be a separate race) of his own world and he had not felt so welcome and at peace in a long while. For many leagues he had been feeling the weight of the new world and it's strange magic's rest on his shoulders, but in the Golden Wood he felt light and free as he did when first set foot upon this new land. It was amongst the Elves that he felt his strength returning and felt once more that he could wade into a sea Orc and part the masses, but he knew that once he left the sanctuary, Tiphereth would once more lose much of his power.

In the case that Lac'Nal may over react to the Drowess being detained, Tiphereth moved near to him and attempted to reassure the ranger. "Lac, I feel it may not be wise to interfere." he silently advised.

Jin heard Tiphereth’s words to Lac’Nala and she nodded her head in agreement.

“He is right, Ranger. Do not petition on my behalf. I cannot change what I am no more than they can open their minds to other ways of thinking. Besides, I could use the rest. As we all could. It has been a harrowing journey thus far and we have an equally harrowing one waiting for us. What better way to get it than under the protective embrace of the Surface Elves?”

Seeing the look on Lac’s face, she softened her own features and gave him a small but reassuring smile.

“I shall be fine. Besides, it is better to adhere to their laws than force them to engage in something neither side wishes to happen. If they would be so kind as to escort me someplace I may be able to rest, then I shall be eternally grateful.”

As the last part was spoken, Jin looked to the four Elves surrounding her in an effort to let them know she was sincere in her words and could indeed use the rest as could the rest of the party.

On the ethereal realm Jack appears on his hands and knees breathing quite heavily. He looks up ahead to where his companions continue on with the elves then stands. Jack now looks around, noticing four spirits standing around him in a circle. When they speak they speak as one. "You have many questions, ancient warrior. The answers you seek, however, are not here. Return to your companions. See the elves. They can help you."

Jack looks to them then nods. He catches up to the others then crosses planes again, a cold breeze blowing past them. The ghostwalker is leaning against a tree holding his abdomen.

When Jack appeared as the cold rush of wind moved Jin’s hair, she frowned deeply. Something was very wrong with the Ghost Walker and he needed assistance. Taking a step towards the injured man, she was immediately prevented from moving past her guards. She glared at her captures once more.

“He needs help. Can you not see he is injured badly? I wish only to assist him.”

Haldir stopped talking with Lac when Jin started fussing again and he gave her a curious glance then looked to Jack as he leaned heavily against the tree.



“And why, Priestess, do you take such interest in this human? Is it not your way to dispose of the weak and injured?”

Jin stood proud, her shoulder squared and her chin held high.

“If I were still in my city, yes. That is exactly the way it would be. Weakness is nothing but a short trip to death.”

Haldir smirked and moved to turn back to Lac when Jin spoke again.

“But I am no longer in my city, am I? I am in YOUR city? And correct me if I am wrong, but when one needs help and has shown no hostility towards the Elves that live here, is it not your duty to aid them?”

Haldir stopped and studied the Drowess with a hard look. Glancing at Lac then over at Jack, he turned and spoke to two Elves that had been standing near the injured Ghost Walker. The two Elves took to each side of Jack and started assisting him further into the city towards a building. Haldir looked to Lac and the others then.

“Follow me. We will get your friend some help.”

Jin once more moved to follow her companions but as before, she was halted. Haldir looked to her and let that smirk ease over his face once more.

“I’m afraid you cannot accompany your….friends, Priestess. It would be bad judgment on our part to allow you to see anymore than what you have seen thus far. You will be escorted to your own quarters for the duration of your stay. Which I pray to the Gods won’t be long.”

When Lac tried to intervene, Haldir stood firm and spoke with authority as he held his hand out to halt Lac from going further.

“It is our law, Lac’Nala.”

Lowering his voice for Lac’s ears alone, he reassured him Jin would be just fine.

“She will not be mistreated and her accommodations will be nothing but comfortable. I give you my word, Ranger.”

Jin shared a glance with Lac and nodded then allowed herself to be led in the opposite direction from the others. Feeling defeated and deflated, the Drowess walked as regally as she could considering the circumstances.

When they reached the place she was to be held, Jin blinked. Was this true? Her prison cell was going to be….a lush apartment like building? Still. It was a prison cell all the same and it gave the Drowess a bittersweet taste in her mouth. But she had to concede it looked wonderful.

Located on the outskirts of the Elven city, the building was more like a place for visiting diplomats to occupy while they were there. If that ever happened. Shade from the lush trees kept the building from the sunlight that filtered into the city during the daylight hours thus giving Jin’s subterranean eyesight a rest. The guards opened the door for her, stripped her of her cloak and dagger harnesses that crossed her body from shoulder to hip then gestured for her to go inside then placed themselves in either side of the doorway.

Jin let her eyes gaze ease around the place before she slowly closed the door behind her. The door opened up into a great room that had a stone hearth and fireplace. Large, plush pillows sat about the floor inviting one to relax and rest. The gentle breeze filtered through the many windows, fluttering the sheer curtains that allowed for privacy without restricting air flow.

Moving further into the place Jin found a large, marble encased, sunken tub that was filled with water. The soft scent of Jasmine reached her nose and it was then she realized the delicate flowers were set in large, clay pots in all four corners. The white and lavender blossoms dancing as the breeze rushed by them.

Across from the tub on the other side of the room was a privacy screen set up next to a small vanity that had a brush, comb and mirror set on it. Draped over the privacy screen was a violet colored silk garment. As Jin got closer, she realized it was what the surface dwellers referred to as a ‘dressing gown’. Bascially it was a slinky gown women wore after their bath and prior to dressing as they prepared themselves with make up and fancy hair coifs. Of course Jin did neither of those but to be able to feel the cool silk against her skin would be wonderful.

The flutter of curtains across the way caught her attention and she noticed there was another room opposite the one she was in. Slowly making her way to it she saw it was a rather large bedroom. Centered on the far wall was the largest bed she’d ever seen in her life. Once again the soft scent of jasmine drifted towards her and she saw that this room, too, had the delicate flowers blooming in one of the corners.

A wardrobe stood on the wall to the left of the bed and as Jin walked into the room she noticed the door was slightly ajar and there were clothes within. Pushing the door open further, her eyes took in several tunic, all of them dark in color. Dark blue. Dark brown. Black. Even a deep violet color. Several pairs of black leggings were there as well as a pair of black, high, soft boots.

Turning, Jin made her way to the bed and reaching out her slender fingers, she felt the soft linens. Instantly her mind imagined what it would feel like to lay on these soft linens as she moved about on them with Lac’Nala. No. IT was best she not think about anything like that. It would be too disappointing when he rejected her, again, and she would lash out at him. It was best to just not even think about all of that anymore.

Taking a deep breath, Jin dismissed that thought from her mind and glanced around the room again. The more she looked around the more she was beginning to realize the surface Elves lived an almost identical life in their world as she did in hers. Only they didn’t murder, lie, cheat and steal.

Still, this was her prison cell and no matter how accommodating it was, Jin still isn’t free to move around. Perhaps it was for the best she remains separated from the others. When they started on their journey once more, she would join up with them then.

In the meantime, she might as well make good use of her accommodations and the first thing on Jin’s list was a bath. Turning, she studied the bathroom once more and started heading that way. As she moved towards the bathroom she gingerly pulled her stained, torn tunic over her head and discarded it on the floor. Next were her boots, leaving the lie o the floor where she had removed them. Lastly was her leggings. Stepping out of them at the edge of the tub, she dipped her toe in the water and found the water was quite warm.

Easing her tired, exhausted body into the water, Jin wasted no time in scrubbing the blood and dirt form her body and hair. Bathing was a daily ritual for her normally. Sometimes two or three times a day. But since everything happened with her brother, that luxury had to be forgone for the sake of her survival. As well as the others.

There were several soaps there for Jin to use and she chose one that had a hint of jasmine to it as well as a faint undertone of ginger. The mixture was quite unique without being over powering and had an air of exoticness to it. Once the initial part of her bath was done and her hair and skin took on a healthy shine once more, Jin closed her eyes and settled back in the tub. The water was still very warm and it was doing a great deal in relaxing her even more.

Where were they going to go from here? How much time did she give them by sending the troops pursuing them in the opposite direction? How much longer did they have to go before they reached Oron-D-Narr? And what then?

Too many questions for her tired mind. Opening her eyes, Jin blinked the blurriness away then rose from the tub to dry herself off and slide the silky dressing gown onto her frame. It was a little long, but otherwise was a perfect fit. Gliding from the bathroom she glanced towards the great room and saw that a tray had been placed near the lush, oversized pillows. Walking over to the tray, she saw it contained bread, cheeses, some sliced meat and a bottle of red wine.

Glancing around she looked to see if anyone was there, but she was indeed alone. Taking another deep breath she decided to make the most of it and sat down, reclining on her right side and poured herself a cup of wine and nibbled on the bred and cheese.

Once the glass of wine was gone and she had eaten some more of the food, Jin glanced towards the door. Knowing it was useless to try and leave, or even use her magic to aid her in doing o, she decided to get the rest she so desperately needed.

Sitting up straighter and crossing her legs under her, Jin took several deep breaths and relaxed her body then slowly closed her eyes to enter her reverie. Still completely aware of her surroundings, this reverie allowed her body to regain the strength it had lost, allows her mind to relive all that happened and gives her he chance to rejuvenate her mana for casting spells.

Goddess knows she will need all the strength she can get.

Lac gave Jin a reassureing smile, as he listened and watched her being led off to her quarters. He was confident that Haldir spoke truefully and that she would find the accomidations, although restrictive, most comfortable and that she would be well looked after.

As Haldir and the remainder of his companions climbed a staircase to an audience chamber, he spoke softly to Haldir. "I thank you for the kindness you have shown Ssinjin. My life and the lives of those that accompany me have been spared from the abyss by her courage and actions."

As they entered the chamber Lac looked up and before them stood Lady Galadrial and Lord Celeborn
Lac dropped to one knee, bowing his head and placing the fist of his right hand to his heart.

Haldir snorted softly at Lac’s words.

“You are welcome, Ranger. But we cannot help but be suspicious of her actions. The Dark Elves never do anything for others without having a hidden agenda of their own. It makes one wonder, if she has taken such liberties at saving you and your companions, what is it she truly seeks? I would urge you to use great caution with her. She has been trained, from birth, to despise those who dwell on the surface and use what ever means she can to destroy us all.”

Haldir saw the hard look Lac gave him.

“I only speak what we know of her, Ranger. Do not let your heart and loins lead you down a path where there is no escape. Keep her at arms length for there is no doubt she has one of her poisoned dagger ready to plunge into your back the moment you draw her close.”

Before Lac could answer Haldir had led him to a chamber where Lord Celebron and Lady Galadrial awaited. Haldir, like Lac, dropped to his knee and covered his heart with his right fist and awaited word from his Lord and Lady to rise before them.

When Jin had been taken to her new accommodations for the duration of their stay, Tiphereth took the opportunity to leave the group for a while and seek solace among the beautiful structures and comely people of the Elven city. He walked along the paths amidst an exquisite combination of nature and architecture that reminded him so much of the Daeyel, then Deithir seemed drawn to the lilting sounds of music emanating from over a small hill. Beyond the dale, he found four Elves performing a beautiful song in a tongue he had no understanding of. Two of them sung while the other pair accompanied the vocals with lute and harp, their perfect harmonies echoing through the woods.



Normally, he would not intrude upon such a perfect scene, but Tiphereth found himself overwhelmed with a sense of welcomeness that pulled him near. Sitting beside a beautiful red haired Elf, Tiphereth procured his flute and joined in their song, following the chorus and mirroring the sweet vocals as best he could. They played together for some time, with no words spoken between them, only the sharing of music and song until the red haired Elf turned to the Phaerie and spoke.

"I am Nevtherra." She told him, then proceeded to introduce the others with supple gestures as if her hand floated upon the air. "We were foretold of you and your companions, Sorrelwind of Arkauld." She informed him as she reached ever so gently to his face and ran her warm fingers across his pale white skin, tracing a finger across the talisquetry that flowed across his cheek. In the pale light of the grove, Tiphereth's eyes were subdued, and neither fiery or black, his vibrant violet coloured irises visible.



Tiphereth was intrigued by the Elf's use of his true and proper name and when she touched his face he could feel a familiarity within them. She knew the name of his world, and he wondered what else she was aware of.

"I am have come here in search of someone." He let it be known.

"Someone who is much more than they appear to be." She added with a knowing look to her smiling green eyes.

He nodded and smiled, delighting in her perception. "You are correct, Elflynn." he told her, using the female form of her race according to his home world, to which she did not seem unaccustomed to. "I must find and protect them from a dark force that seeks to control them; they who are truly Aelaeydium, one of the saviors and creators of my world."

"You travel a dangerous path, Pramance." She revealed, "Stay your course and serve the ranger and his companions for their quest and yours are intertwined."

Tiphereth looked at Nevtherra with surprise. She had addressed him by a title that few others knew. The legend of the Pramance was known only in his world and that word should have little meaning to an Elf of Lothlorien and yet she seemed to bear an uncanny insight into his life. "You are not of the Golden Wood." He stated for her knowledge and her appearance were unlike the pale and golden haired Elves about her. In fact, as he studied her garb and mannerisms more closely, it became apparent what she was, "You are Daeyel." he said in Lyvaneddren the oldest tongue of the Phaeire an ancient language borrowed from the 'Other world' from which they borrowed their semblance's, long, long ago.

She smiled warmly, acknowledging his assumption to be correct. "Yes. I have been awaiting you for a time," She disclosed in the Daeyelic language, a derivative of Lyvaneddren, as most of the Saedrie and Phaerie tongues were.

Sorrelwind was so delighted to find another from his home lands, that he barely noticed when the other Elves silently moved away, melting into the forest. "You came here by way of the Northern Shaldaia?" He inquired.

Nevtherra nodded. "Over one hundred years ago I sailed through the gateway to this world, my kin and I." She turned away and looked up into the trees, "It was a new world, free of the Will of the Aelaeydium and we embraced the challenge, ignorant of the perils that would befall us." Her eyes then sadly settled on the forest floor, and Tiphereth knew that she was the only one to have survived the blades of the dark fiends of this world. She turned her emerald gaze upon him once more, "You must protect the Aelaeydium, Pramance. I know now that their Will is a bastion against the evil's of this Omniverse. Protect our sanctuary."

Tiphereth nodded. "I shall try, but I have already felt the change within me. The laws of this world are imposing themselves upon my essence much quicker than I ever felt before."

"Yes, the will of this world is much stronger than ours." She agreed, "As I felt the magic of the Aelaeydium leave me, I knew that I could not ever return home and so I sought out the Elves. So much like us are they, that I saw no reason to ever leave this place. This is now my home."

"And a beautiful one it is." Sorrelwind conceded, "I am pleased that you have found peace, here." He told her reaching for his flute. "Please, a Daeyelic song? If you would so indulge me."

Nevtherra smiled and began to sing of their home lands, accompanied by Sorrelwinds soft trilling notes, upon which fiery enchanted images of minute sprites danced.

The elves led Jack into a separate building and sat him down a bed inside. They left and seen an elven woman came over to look at him. "Lift your shirt, ghostwalker, and let me see this wound of yours." He looks at her curiously for a moment then complies. She removes the bandages then has him lay down. "Impressive. Lac must have done this." The elven woman cleans the wound quickly then redresses it. When she finishes she finds that Jack has passed out from fatigue. She leaves him to rest and heal but to also inform his friends that he will be all right.

Galadriel looked upon Lac and Haldil "Arise Haldril faithful gaurdian of Lothriel...... Arise Lac'Nala, Orathreth Culnamo Ranger and Lord of Oron_D_Narr, we welcome you to Lothriel." ..... she looked into Lac's eyes and said "You have suffered a great loss and your heart is troubled......Let it not be so for those for who you have grieved long now suffer no longer, but reside with our departed breathern at peace in the lands across the sea. ......... You carry a heavy burden Ranger, the evil that follows you shall not pass into these lands.....Let the weight be lifted from your shoulders and seek respite while you are here." she said softly. "Regain your strength for the task that has been set before you is not yet complete......There is time yet for you and your companions to regain their strength for in the months to come your strength and your resolve shall be challenged. ......... The Dark Elf that travels with you has much to learn.....I sense the path she has chosen is true, though her mind is still clouded by the past......Lead her true Ranger for much depends on this alliance that is slowly forging." Galadril them looked puzzeled and asked "There were seven companions that past through Khazad-dum and yet I sense only six? Where is the Wizard Alrick for I wish to speak with him."

Lac looked at Galadriel and a sad shadow passed for his face. "I fear Alrick fell into shadow in the Mines of Khazad-dum. He gave his life to save us all from the Balrog."

Galadriel's face grew troubled "This news brings ill tidings ...... The strength of the Dark LOrd has indeed grown strong ..... I must consider this. ....... Go now to your friends and rest regain your strength for many dark days lay still before you Lord of Oron_D_Narr." She and Lord Celeborn then turned and asended the staircase vanishing from view.

Haldir layed his hand on Lac's shoulder ..... "Come my friend you must rest, I shall take you to the others and your quarters. Please consider this your home while you are here. If you require anything just ask and it shall be granted." They then turned and left the chamber as they steped back out onto the stairway many soft voices could be heard in song. The harmonies were pleasant yet sad. Lac glanced at Haldir "They sing a lament for Alrick, my heart is too heavy with sadness to speak the words." As lac walked Galadriel's voice entered his mind. "Lac'Nala when the days grow troubled and your path seems dark seek the council of Sorrelwind of Arkauld. Now go and rest we shall speak in council again."

The wind had picked up and the trees of the picturesque grove began sway above the two outlanders as they shared a song that Nevtherra had not sung almost a hundred years. Words could not express for Tiphereth had pleased he was to have found someone from his own realm in such a perfect place. It gave him a sense of belonging, a stake in this world other than for the reason of protecting is own for he knew that if this one Daeyel had found passage to Middle Earth, then others had surely found there way to it's shores as well.

Sorrelwind's musical conjurations that danced around the grove like soap bubbles and as the winds increased they were scattered and cast into the forest, carrying their music through Lothlorien. The distant rumble of thunder, echoed through the forest and the smell of rain was in the air, prompting the two to end their duet and consider finding shelter.



"Thank you for the song, Sorrelwind." Nevtherra complimented, "Have you lodging?"

Tiphereth, shook his head. He had not considered to ask Haldir, of their accommodations after Jin was taken for fear that he have changed his mind and placed him under house arrest as well.

"Follow me." She told him.

Nevtherra, smoothly rose from her seat and gracefully ran down the path as a fine mist of rain descended down upon them. Her steps were light, and she seemed to float on the air between foot falls in a similar fashion to her countryman and he delighted in striding along with her, occasionally both of them leaping and gliding upon the air. The Daeyel had retained the 'lightness' of the Phaeire, even though they had long left that realm and walked only the material world, and from what Tiphereth knew of the Elves they too shared the 'light step' of their kind.



Tiphereth could see that Nevtherra was leading him to an Elfin home constructed around a great oak tree in the middle of a tranquil pond. As they approached the water the Daeyel, not able to fly as the Deithir, skipped across a bridge of lily pads while he glided across, touching is foot down once on the silvery surface and landing silently upon the small island. "That was not fair." Nevtherra playfully expressed as she touched the bank behind him. Then when she realized that the Deithir hadn't realized they were racing, molded her face once more into a serene Elven masque.

Sensing her sudden change in mood Tiphereth was quick to apologize for the misunderstanding. "Forgive me, but it has been a while since I have partaken in light-hearted play, Nevtherra. Before I arrived in this world I had spent many years in training within the Halls of the Falling Leaves."

Nevtherra flashed her green eyes upon him. "Ashantra's Autumn Temple?" she said with amazement. "You have seen Master Draesh, the Lord of the Leaves?"

Tiphereth nodded, but did not elaborate. He had seen the same awe struck expression many times before, but what people did not understand was that Draesh and what some people called the Autumn Temple of Ashantra, as in fact just a secluded mountain hall. Draesh who was believed to be an incarnation of the Aelaeydium called Ashantra, was just a Kymir, a beast man descended of a lion, who merely resembled the almighty creator. There was nothing godly about the fighter, although his fighting skills could match the power of a deity. "He is my teacher and awaits my return when my task is done."

"You are indeed then a valuable asset to your party." Stated the Daeyel.

Tiphereth smiled and tipped his head dismissively. "My presence has had little effect on the outcome."

Nevtherra's bright eyes narrowed upon the Phaerie as she peered into things that had already and not yet come to pass. "I understand." She told him. "I see your paths entwined, but there is no need for your spear, and this troubles you. You have a role to play, Sorrelwind but it is not that which you yourself had foreseen. Sometimes you must stand to the side and let the mountain pass you by." The Daeyel then turned toward the city as if someone had called her, "Your companions are now speaking with my Lady, Galadriel." she informed Tiphereth as she lead him to the doorway of her dwelling, "You may join them or stay here and share a few of your tales with me, master bard."

Tiphereth accepted her invitation and followed her in, unable to resist a chance to speak of his home world and learn more about this mysterious stranger whose sight was able to foretell so much about him. She beckoned him to sit at a table beside the trunk of the great oak and began to make a 'spring' tea and cut a few slices of a heavy bread to have with it. "What do you know of your companions?" Asked Nevtherra as she set the plated of bread between and awaited the water for the tea to boil.

"I have seen —"

"No." She interjected, "I did not ask what you have 'seen' within them. What do you know?"

Her lesson became clear then when the Deithir could not recall many details of their lives, because he had never really spoke with any of them, accept for Alrick and a little with Brianna. "Shall I attempt to pry into their lives then?" He asked innocently.

"Why do you believe you must pry?" She politely countered, "No, I am merely allowing you to know your station among them."

Tiphereth nodded. "You are wise, Nevtherra. If I might ask, how long have you had the sight?"

"An astute observation, Sorrelwind and I feel you already suspect that Lady Galadriel is my mentor. I have always had the gift, but it was she that allowed me to truly see." She answered, while she rose once more and added boiling water to the kettle of tea and carried it over to the table.

"What else do you see then?" He asked, curious of the extent of her power.

Nevtherra poured the tea and as the mixture slowly flowed from the pot she delved in Tiphereth's past and spoke a name he had not heard for over twenty years. "They still fear you. On stormy nights they huddle round their fires and tell the stories of the Wind of Sorrows, the vicious Phaerie who would steel into their villages and mercilessly slaughter men, women and children. They tell them to remember and sometimes to frighten brash children who tend to stray too far from home. After you witnessed the murderous acts of the Humans upon our kind you exacted vengeance upon them, regardless of whether they were innocent or —"

"Enough." He interrupted unable to hear anymore and relive those dark times of his life. "I would rather not return to those memories."

Nevtherra bowed her head sympathetically and drank her tea. She never knew what she would see in a person and had taught herself to recite what she saw without any guile. They continued speaking then about their world and the one they were currently in, carrying on and laughing while the rain poured down.

Galadriel stood silently in the doorway of Brianna's room. As Brianna noticed her and rose defensively, Galadriel smiled and spoke softly "Do not let your heart be full of sorrow honored warrior of the Duendain......Your choice to leave your adopted family was forseen ........ You have an important part to play in what is yet to be .......... had you not your feet would not now tread the path your destiny has laid before you ....... Your family is at peace and gaze upon you from across the sea with pride ....... Fill your heart with the beauty and peace of our lands." Galadriel then stepped into the room, opened the cutains of a window to reveal a vast Elven garden A soft breaze of fresh enchanted filled with the scent of honeysuckle wildflowers and clementus air drifted across the room. Galadriel then walked quietly out of the room, closing the door behind her.



Galadriel then stepped down the long corridor to the doors of Ssinjin's chambers. The two guards standing on either side of the door, imediately bowed their heads and brought the fists of their ringt hands to their hearts. As their lances snapped to their sides. "I shall speak with the Drow Priestess." Galadriel said quietly. The gaurds turned and rapped lightly on the doors before opening them, stepping aside to allow Galadriel to enter.

As Galadriel entered the chambers a scent of the forest after a spring rain and that of blooming honeysuckle drifted across the room.


" Welcome to Lothlorien, Ssinjin Priestess of the Drow House of K'Nyan, Priestess in Training of Eilistraee” Galadriel said "I pray you find your chambers to your liking and you are comfortable. I have loooke into your heart and decided that you shall not be restricted to these chambers. However, my people are wary of the drow, so I will ask that you should be accompanied by one of our gaurds or The Ranger upon your journies outside these walls. This I request for your safety as well as the ease of mind of my people." Galadriel said as she moved to a basin by the window. She poured fressh spring water from a pitcher into the basin, then said some words softly over it as she replaced the pitcher. The water shimmered then turned to a mirror. "Will you look upon the mirror Priestess?" she asked

Ssinjin immediately pulled herself from her reverie when she heard the knock at her door. Getting to her feet, the Drowess was a bit surprised to see Lady Galadriel coming to pay her a visit. At first, the Drowess could do nothing but stare at the beauty that now stood before her but when Jin realized what she was doing, she quickly corrected and bowed respectfully before the Lady of the Woods.

Hearing Galadriel speak to her and tell her she was free to move about Lothlorien escorted, Jin was once more stunned to speechlessness. Did the Lady do this to throw her off? If so, she had done an excellent job. Jin recovered and finally found her voice.

“Thank you, Lady. Your hospitality has been nothing but accommodating to the highest standards. I shall forever be grateful of your kindness.”

As Galadriel moved to the basin near the window, Jin walked with her. The Drowess had heard many stories about this Lady of the Woods and her ability to see things that have not happened yet. So when the water turned to a mirror and the Lady asked if she would take a look upon it, Jin hesitated.

Did she REALLY want to see what ever the scrying pool was going to reveal to her? Rather it be past or future, Jin knew that the truth was never an easy thing to see. Especially when it was shown from the lifted veil of conceit. But to refuse such a gift would be an insult to her benevolent hostess. Swallowing hard, Jin let her gaze settle on Galadriel’s knowing she could not hide her fear and shame form this lovely Elf’s eyes.

“I have heard of your abilities, Lady Galadriel. While I know you offer a great gift to me, you also know the fear I feel at such things. But I find myself unable to refuse your request and I will look into this mirror knowing I will most likely not like what I see. Perhaps by facing this fear I will be able to find peace in knowing there is nothing I can do to change fate.”

Hesitating just a moment longer, Jin finally let her gaze slowly drift to the scrying pool Galadriel has prepared for her and braced herself for the inevitable truth she dreaded most.

The rains had stopped nearly as quickly as they had begun but the thunder yet rumbled in the distance as the storm circled round the Golden Wood as the two Arkauldians moved into an ornate sheltered court yard round the other side of the oak tree. There in a stand alone fireplace made of white stone, Nevtherra placed some dead fall branches and in the way of her kind ignited it by conjuring the cold flame granted by the Aelaeydium. As she tended the fire, she could not help but to once more make mention of the Deithir's privilege of training in the Hall of the Falling Leaves. "Perhaps you might offer a display of your martial skills later?" She requested, but Sorrelwind to not offer a response right away. Instead he quickly stood and faced an archway that lead out into the garden on the eastern bank of the small island which was almost entirely encompassed by the Sindarin dwelling.



Nevtherra was curious by her guests sudden defensive stance and looked the entry way for any signs of what may have startled him. She could hear nothing, but after a few moments her senses detected a presence that allowed her to relax. A Sindar Elf dressed in pale blue robes silently glided through the archway, his bow slung across his back. "You have keen senses, Sidhe." He commented in the common tongue of Westron, so that the outlander might understand him.



Nevtherra moved past Sorrelwind and lightly embraced the Elf in greeting. She placed a kiss upon his cheek then stared deeply and passionately into his eyes before she turned and introduced her guest. "This is Tiphereth Sorrelwind of Arkauld." She then gestured back to the Elf, "Sorrelwind, this is my husband, Hísleverya."



Tiphereth bowed lowly and graciously while the Elf slightly leaned his head forward in a similar gesture, then Nevtherra beckoned them both to sit by the fire. "Hísleverya, has been a long journey." She explained, as she relieved her husband of his pack and weaponry and placed them on a stone table on the other side of the room.

"I returned an hour ago and had to await the counsel of Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn. They informed me of the presence Lac'Nal of Oron_D_Narr and his companions. Imagine my surprise to find that during my absence Dwarves, Dark Elves and" Hísleverya's dark grey eyes focused on Sorrelwind, "Sidhe have been welcomed into our home. You, Sorrelwind of the Phae', are not what I expected when your kind was mentioned. I did not envision you to be so like my Daeyelan wife, what is your kind?"

"Deithir." Answered Sorrelwind, still not sure whether or not the Elf was being inhospitable or if it was just his nature to seem arrogant.

Hísleverya nodded his head and as he and Nevtherra shared the slightest of looks she rose and left the room without a farewell leaving the two alone. "I do not ever recall, Nevtherra speaking of your people before, please enlighten me if you would be so kind."

Tiphereth was hesitant at first, fearing that his story might destroy whatever good impressions the Elves had of him but Hísleverya maintained his insistent stare. "We came into being alongside the Daeyel," he began " but my ancestors stole the essence of the 'Aidral', the powerful servants of the Aelaeydium and so we became like them. Their essence corrupted us and my ancestors abused their power, so to right this wrong the Aelaeydium had no choice but to cast my people into the deep woods of Telinthadol, where it is eternally night. For a thousand years that was our home, until one night the Aidral returned to set those of us free who could part with their great power. Some decided to remain as gods, while my people chose to leave the power and return to the bright Realm of Phaerie."

Hísleverya, pondered the story and it was known then that the Deithir and Dark Elves of Middle Earth shared much in common. Sorrelwind was, however nothing like them on the surface, but the more people that learned of his origins, the more likely they would begin to question his mind and heart.





Beyond the home of Nevtherra and Hísleverya, five Elven guards escorted a lone Dwarven traveler into the heart of Casa Gladahon and Beldegir was summoned to hold audience with the newcomer in one the majestic forest halls under the watchful eye of Haldir.



"I be, Othargren, Son of Barldren of the House of Ironfist and I come bearing a word from ye clan, Master Longbeard.", Informed the Eastern Dwarf. Then much of their conversation there after was spoken in either their native tongue of Khuzdul or Iglishmek, a secret language based on gestures known only to their kind.



Curious of why and how a dwarf from the far eastern Orocarni Mountain of Rhun, would come to bring news of his lands that lied in Dunland, Beldegir learned that he was returning after a long journey to meet with the clan leader's of Durin's folk. He was seeking to unite the Dwarven houses of the East with the West, and while they held council the threat of war with the Orcs was once more was on the horizon and so he was asked to seek out the Longbeard, Beldegir and demand that he fly home to assist in the defense of his lands.

Beldegir had little choice but return home and sought out Lac'Nal to regretfully inform him of his departure, but charged that Othargren stay in his stead. "Ye need an axe by your side, ranger and not just any will do. Ye need the axe of a Dwarf, and while mine is needed else where, I present ye with Othargren Ironfist. He be headin' Eastward back to his home that lies on the edge of your lands." The brown bearded Dwarf then turned the red bearded, Easterner, "I pledged my service to this Man, and I expect ye to do the same." Then he looked back to Lac and locked arms with the ranger, "We'll see one another again. Until then keep ye wits about ya and may the gods grant you favor, lad."

Beldegir left that very evening and Othargren took his place among the companions.

"So, Master Lac, it seems that I am to pledge my allegiance to ya. Let's say we wait on the swearing 'til we've got something to swear about. Now, what have these pointy eared gardners 'ave to eat around here, there's hole in me belly the size of the pit of Gimre in the Iron Hills!" Boisterously roared the Dwarf.