> Previous
The Swanship entered the harbor of Sylvahar. Deftly Nole docks the ship and with Olwe's and Elenwe's assistance attaches the moorings. From his vantage point, Zuul-Faulkes laughs and notes the parade approach the other bridge. "Nothing remains secret in this realm for long. Before moving to greet the Teleri king, Arctic Ranger turns to ArthurPendragon Alecto and says, "If he makes a move, shoot him." ArthurPendragon answers, "I shall, indeed." Zuul-Faulkes merely hovers among the branches of the tree. Gray hugs the rock face along the shoreline as a shadow. He watches and listens, admiring the majesty and craftsmanship of the vessel moored at the docks. Silently he wathces thefigures upon the dock.
"Greetings, highness," Arctic says to Olwe. Olwe steps upon the docks and takes in the familar landscape of the home of the sylvan elves. His eyes travel across the people gathered. Nole follows his king upon the docks, looking upon the nrew faces before him. "Greetings to you and yours, Highness."
Olwe looks up and smiles a little, a little uncertainity playing about his eyes as he searches the elf's face. "Greetings, my Lord." Arctic Ranger chuckles. "Oh, I am no lord, my good sir...just a ranger here." Olwe smiles. "Well met, Ranger, and warm greetings. There is no 'just' with a ranger."
Zuul-Faulkes hangs quietly in the air among the branches of the tree for a glimpse of the arriving Teleri. It was as Elric had said. ArthurPendragon Alecto says to the ranger, "Commander, I do like the closeness of the trees. Can they move from this place as yet?" Elenwe trails behind her king and Nole, gazing about at the new land and people. Arctic turns to Olwe. "Are you ready, Highness? The Queen has been expecting you."
Olwe smiles gently and nods., he looks closer and his eyes narrow, searching the features. "You are Atani?"
"Atani? I know not that term, I am sorry to say. I would like to be on the move soonest, highness....we have more security at the Queen's island. There has been unusual movements of late here what with that new empire forming west of the realm."
"I seem to remember you, once, but you were much younger. Atani is the Quenya for human. Oh, yes, of course, and thank you."
"I believe we did meet once or twice...though from afar." Arctic Ranger bows. "Highness....I am to escort you and yours to the Queen's castle. If you would be so kind as to follow me."
Olwe nods. "Please, Ranger, if you would be so kind." Nole follows his king.
Elsewhere, where the moon is full and the night sky dark. the children of Lolth dance and twinkle in the skies above, the waters of the bay lap upon the shore in a rhythm like the stilling of a heart. Here, in Sylvahara, as the visitors move out of sight, Gray moves silently along the shore matching footfall to lapping wave. Zuul-Faulkes note anothr dark presence. "How now, Drow?"
Gray thinks to himself, "They called him king, your Highness, and he was going to meet a queen." He observes the tall ship and the lack of guards onboard. He slips into the water and swim silently to the mooring line. Slowly , silently , he traverses the mooring line and slips aboard the ship. moving along the corridors. He finds a chamber fit for a King and a table beset with food and wine.
On a table near a throne he finds a glass of wine and a bottle of wine. He smiles and reaches into his pocket. From his pocket he produces a small vial. he uncorks it and laying a finger nail from his pinky finger along the rim of the glass he places a drop of the poison onto his nail. slowly it runs downthe length of the nail as he circles his finger about the rim. He reaches into his belt and pulls from it a long thin metal spike he pushes the thin spike along the edge of the cork of the bottle and places three drops of the poison into the wine bottle. Quickly, quietly, he looks around and smiles to himself. The matron will be pleased. He makes his way to the deck of the ship and eases himself over the side and onto the dock. He follows the path the others had taken moving silently along the wooded path. He watches as a creature moves across the bridge at a run.
As Olwe follows the rangers, he smiles gently, noting the ranger's manner as he scans the land. Brianna Rioccan grins as she watches her Commander and holds her hands out. der and holds her hands out. Olwe looks at the Ranger and then gives a shy smile at the new person. Above them, Comet Quijote goes to the rail on the terrace. Molly Pexie turns as the Queen goes out the door and Brianna Rioccan feels its warmth and turns to watch the Queen. "King Olwe! My dear cousin!"
Olwe breaks into a great smile, his eyes lighting up with joy. "I thought you would never arrived, dearest," Comet continues. "My Sweet Cousin, who resides ever in my heart! Glad am I to hear your sweet voice," answers Olwe.
Elenwe arrives, escorted by ArthurPendragon Alecto, who motions to the Commander. He shows a single finger and points toward the docks. Arctic nods to Arthur. He turns to Olwe, and says, "If we are ready, please step onto the platform in front of me." Olwe nods at the ranger. "I thank you for your safe conduct." "Duty and honor, sir," answers the ranger. "Lucky is my dear Cousin to have such ranger."
Above them, Comet Quijote laughs with excitement like a young girl. Meanwhile, Arthur tells Artic, "I shall wait near the bridge, Commander." Once the elevator stopped, Olwe leapt from it and greets his Cousin," My Sweet, Sweet Cousin!"
"Olwe!"
"Comet!" Olwe rushes to his dear cousin and embraces her. Comet Quijote embraces him. "You are a spring flower, My Dear Queen."
"It is so good to see you. Please come inside and take your ease." Olwe smiles, the years dropping away, his face looking young and boyish in delight. Comet notices Olwe's companions. "Ah, greetings, and welcome." Olwe follows her gaze. " Thank you, dear Comet. May I present the sea merchant Nole and the teleri swordmaiden Elenwe. My Cousin, Comet, Queen of the Sylvan lands." "Your Highness," greets Elenwe.
"Nice to meet you, "says Comet. "Please excuse this unucustomed welcome, I am excited to see my kin. Please, let us go in."
Olwe blushes and smiles at his kinswoman, his eye fastened upon her. Arctic turns to the queen and says, " need to speak with the fae guard Commander. We have spotted something lurking near the dock...and I spotted a few strange flyers hereabouts."
Olwe follows Comet inside and smailes at all in the room. "Vedui, Highness," greets Llyra. Comet smiles widely. Olwe smiles at all in the room. "Greetings! How good it is to see you." "These are my fae guard." Llyra Constantine smiles warmly to the Queen's guests. "They are here to protect not only myself but, the King and his guests." Brianna Rioccan smiles and bows to his Highness. Olwe's eyes widened before he smiles in pure delight. "I have not met the fae before. I am glad that the Queen is so well protected."
"Next to me is Lady Llyra, Commander of the Fae guard and honored member of my court." Elenwe stares at the diminuitive creatues, foreign to her eyes. "Lady Llyra, I believe you have met my cousin, King Olwe."
"Commander...would you step outside for a bit?" Arctic turns to Llyra.
"Mae Govannen, Lady Llyra. How beautiful you are this night, as on other occasions," greets Olwe.
Llyra Constantine smiles and whispers in the Queen's ear, "My apologies Majesty..Commander Arctic needs to speak to me." "Yes, of course, " responds Comet. Olwe turns and smiles a the other guards. "Mae Govannen." She turns to Olwe. "Please, be seated, my Cousin., and your party." "Thank you, my dear cousin, but beauty before age."
Llyra Constantine curtsies, "And as always Sir, an honor to be in your presence..pray excuse me a moment." Comet addresses Olwe, "I am sorry to get you with my guards, dear cousin but, the times are most dangerous."Olwe nods, his face re-arranging into somber expression. Rhiannon Rascon looks at her commander and waits for orders. "We spotted a dark shape on the docks...my ranges are investigating. But...there have also been a few flyers in the air nearby," says Arctic. Llyra Constantine nods, having sensed the ancient's presence. Arctic continues, "and a strange demon claiming something about kinship with Faulkes."
"A dark shape..."murmurs Olwe, he turns to gaze after the ranger. Comet Quijote overhears low talk outside. Lyra is heard to say, "Rhia, check the vicinity immediately." Rhia nods. Arctic's voice is heard next, "Sso my rangers will concentrate on the ground...yo may want to have a few of your guard out on wide patrol." "Agreed, Commander," replies Lyra.
"I feared some ...person might hear of your visit. What a fine pair we would make for an attack here," Comet tells Olwe. "It would make a enticing target, I am afraid."
Dominique Darkwatch adds, "Yes....not much security here...we just walked right in."
Olwe slowly turns to his kinswoman and hands her the chest he had brought with him from the docks. Comet gives an "Ohhhh," grins and takes the gift. "I believe they are unloading the strawberries at the docks." Olwe smiles shyly. Comet Quijote gasps with joy! Olwe beams at his fair cousin's delight. "How could I forget them?" Llyra Constantine chuckles softly knowing her queen's love for the berries. "Lord Nole helped me gather them for you."
"I shall have it unpacked as soon as may be," says Comet. "Very kind of you, Lord Nole. I am overly fond." Comet Quijote pats Olwe's hand and squeezes it. Nole smiles. Olwe nods. He looks at the chest and then at his fair Cousin, the Queen. "I hope you like the chest. I am glad that the skill in shipbuilding can also create things which may grace a great Queen's palace."
Arctic is overheard to say, "Very well......you are all loyal Sylvans so you may stay...but please...no one is to go up to the castle level...agreed?"
"You always bring me the loveliest things. the finest elven craft, " says Comet. "I am forever thrilled to receive them and treasure them."
Olwe squeezes Comet's hand and his faces darkens with worry. "I have worried so for you, Comet. I could not stay away, but had to know you are safe."
Arctic's voice carries during pause. "Thank you. We need to control the environment up there...too many would confuse the situation."
Comet turns to the Teleri lord. "Olwe, what is the news from Alqualonde?"
Olwe sighs, bowing his head. "There are still but a handful of Teleri and not clues where the rest have gone...." Comet Quijote shifts uncomfortably with the noise below and nods slowly. "And the dreams, Comet....the dreams are worse. Great evil is coming." Comet Quijote grips his hand and looks into his face. Llyra Constantine frowns and nods in agreement, for all signs even in the elements pointed to such.
"I do know as much, Olwe. The signs are everywhere and the dark news comes from all directions. I hope to protect Alqualonde but, my forces are stretched."
Olwe draws in a deep breath. "I hear news of balrogs...Blessed Illuvatar! If that is true... if these are Melkor's balrogs...we are in grave danger. They do not fall easily to elven blades and arrows."
"Yes," answers Comet. "There has appeared a balrog from the volcano to the west. My warriors have not been able to kill him."
Olwe looks deep in to Comet's eyes. "You must promise me to keep your sweet self safe. Please, Comet, please. Should something happen to you, I dare not think of that."
"I shall do my best, Beloved. There are few places left that are safe."
"I have met one of the descendants of the dragons who escaped Melkor's evil those centuries ago. She was formidable but much less than her ancerstors under his control. We can only hope the same is true of the balrogs."
"That they may be deminished in power?" she asks.
"It is only a theory of mine...that as they become more a part of Ea,the mortal world, they may also be more limited in their powers."
" I cannot help but think, should this evil lord gain a place in this world once more, that all his servants will gain full power as they once were." Llyra Constantine speaks up, clearing her throat, "They would need energy to sustain their powers. Without it, they would be diminished traveling between the realms." Comet Quijote turns to Llyra. "Yes, true." Olwe catches the gaze of the Lady Lyra. "Your Queen bears the blood of the first born. That is no small thing. She is precious for her own sweet self but more so for that." Comet Quijote smiles at Olwe's affection for her. Llyra Constantine nods, her eyes declaring her knowledge of a cost she would pay for her queen.
"I fear that as well, and the dreams lend strength to my fear. We must get to the root of the darkness before it takes hold." He looks up and nods at the Lady's words. Llyra Constantine looks directly at the Queen with the warning clear on her face, "You and your kin must be protected, majesty, at all costs."
Outside, Brianna Rioccan flies closer. "Hear anything good Tosh? Maybe you should move away from the castle. I believe the Queen would like her privacy around the castle."
"This I intend," says Comet," but much conspires to spread my forces between several beleaguered realms. Aefelvinska seeks my aid and come to Sylvhara in exile."
Olwe turns to look at his fair Cousin. "Some news have reached us at that. and other elves have found Alqualonde."
"You will get more. The elves are being driven this way as their lands fall before the enemy. I hope you will draw some warriors, too."
Olwe nods at Nole. "Friend Nole has traveled to their realm, and there is also a balrog there." Nole nods. "Balrogs have been seen in the realm of Lannnell." Comet turns to Nole. "How many have been reported? Any idea of numbers?"
Nole answers. "One balrog was driven out of Lannell, and another was seen in the wastelands near Port Lluth."
Outside, Brianna responds to someone with, "Yes, I believe it is."
Within, Comet continues. "So, with the balrog rising from the volcano in my western lands, there may be 3?"
Olwe speaks. "I cannot think but the balrog allowed itself to be driven out. " Comet agrees with, "Once awakend, they do not sleep again." Olwe nods. "Nor are they turned aside from their mission."
Nole adds, "This is as was reported from our allies in Lannell when I visited Dame Ellyanna." Comet Quijote turns to Nole again. "I see."
"Olwe?"
"Yes, my Sweet Cousin?"
"I have heard rumors of some underdark drow, not from Torgan...Do you know anything?" Olwe looks puzzled at the word. 'Drow?" "Dark elves, Dok Alfar."
"Ah....I have heard of the movement of creatures looking like elves. But I know not what they are."
" I have some residents her but they are followers of the light here."
"I heard of the rise of the Torgan empire, and the dreams intensified. I see us in a pass, a large elven army..."
"Well, I am glad you see an elven army..." responds Comet. She pets Olwe's hand absently.
Olwe's voice trails off, his face disquieted. "Then at the head of the army...a miasma descends and sweeps through our ranks....I see elf-like beings storming our army, and our people falling to the dark cloud and the blades of these creatures." Olwe bows his head. "In the dream...I cannot get to you in time. I see you..I see you.." His voice trails off.
"The dark empress rises to the west of Sylvhara. Aryador has fallen and a new orc king resides there."
"It has? Then the rumors are true."
"Yes, says Comet, "A shadow empire ruled by a powerful empress and an orc king." "This bodes not well, " responds Olwe. "It was to be expected, " Comet reminded him. "I know them not as you do...as Alqualonde was uprooted and brought here, all are unkown to us." Comet nods. "Who is this empress," asks Olwe. "A worshpper of the abyssal Lord Nargoroth," she answers. Olwe shudders.
"Melkor rises in the elven lands. nargoroth rises to sweep all before him into darkness."
"Melkor? But he is imprisoned! Do we know he is freed? The last time he was allowed to walk among us all, untold thousands died." Comet nods. "Elves, humans, all. I do not know that he is freed but his servants appear. It is a sign." Olwe nods, his face grim. "I fear he does not need a body to cause destruction." "No, indeed," Comet responds. "He needs only power over those who would serve him. his reach is long." Olwe squeezes her hand. "I know."
"We need a plan, Olwe, and many realms to participate and to join us."
Olwe nods again, "We must form a confederation of forces...all our elven kin must lay aside any differences. And we must embrace all those realms, gladly"
"The smaller realms will not have a chance otherwise."
"I have thought to travel to Lannell and see the Western elves for myself." said Olwe.
Comet Quijote shifts uneasily. "That is a good start. I can also solicit my allies."
"And I must travel to the Mal'anar. The daughter of Xavi and Morrigan, who was fostered in my house...she is gone, like all the Teleri vanished."
"Gone? Home?"
"Vanished. There is no trace of her."
"As the others," says Comet.
Olwe nods. "As the others..." his voice holding a note of deep sadness. "Lady Elenwe and her travelling companion are all that is left of the fabled swordmaidens of Alqualonde. All those who took up the way of the sword after the kinslaying...they are gone." Comet Quijote feels her stomach churn watching Olwe's pain. "And they must make due with lessons from one guard and a rusty old king."
"I know it is the sadness of your life, Beloved. Perhaps Alqualonde will rise again."
Olwe looks at Comet. "Earwen is safe in Tirion, at least. The great sadness would be to lose you, dear Cousin.....or to be forever parted from Tilion. But already we are apart. He has been summoned to Manwe's side."
"Olwe, if I am lost it will mean that Sylvhara has fallen never to come again."
"We must not lose Sylvahara, or all will truly be lost, Comet."
"It is time to join forces. It is perhaps late...but we must try," says the Sylvan Queen.
Olwe squeezes her hand. "This world was made for the Children of Illuvatar, for all his children. We must defend it against the likes of Melkor."
"We are behind the evil macinations of our enemies and have felt joy in the sun. Behind in realization."
"Perhaps we have grown complacent," muses Olwe.
"We shall stand together, Dearest."
"Hope remains....even the Fae, who have ever been full of peace, yet even they are choosing to fight. They will come and aid the Elves.." Llyra smiles lovingly at her Queen. "Yes, they would fight for the one who gave them a home in a dark world."
"You are still a king from a great and noble line, even without your people at present. Take heart. let us plan a defense and gather what warriors we may."
Olwe smiles at his Cousin. "I have seen the sun rise several times, now. And so now I have something to compare your Queen's greatness to." He blushes. "And you are still as lovely and as determined as when you were a mere slip of an elven maid." Comet Quijote smiles at the memory of happier times with her cousin.
"We must plan a defense."
"We will use our charms of persuasion to convince our elven allies that need is dire," replies Comet.
"I must return to Alqualonde," says Olwe, "but seeing your sweet face calms my heart a little."
"Alright, Dearest."
"May I send one of the swordmaidens to be trained by your noble knights?" asks the Lord of the Teleri. "Of course," she replies, "anything."
"Embrace me, Beloved," says the Queen of the Sylvan elves. "Gladly, " answers Olwe. Comet holds Olwe tightly. "Dear Cousin," she says. Olwe whispers in her ear. "Be safe, Sweet Sovereign. I should die inside were you lost to me."
"I will enjoy your gifts." Olwe smiles and winks. "There are more where those came from." Comet Quijote allows herself to laugh softly. "May you have a safe trip home."
"Thank you, Lord Nole," says Comet. "You are very welcome," replies Nole. "Shall we depart, my friends?" asks Olwe.
"Farewell to all," says Comet. "Farewell, Queen Comet," says Nole. "Blessed Be!." says Llyra.
Olwe fills his eyes with the sight of his Cousin as he departs. "Until then, my Cousin." He turns and leaves without a backward glance. Comet Quijote waves. Nole, Elenwe, and Olwe leave the gracious castle of Queen Comet and follow the paths through the trees of Sylvahara. They decend down to the docks, their hearts were heavy of the news they have learned, but their feelings kindled by the kindness of cousin Comets' words. Nole skillfully readies his ship for sail, to return back home.
Olwe stands aboard the ship as they pull away from the harbor, watching it shrink from view. Then as Lord Nole busies himself with securing the ship, he turns and goes to his cabin, unfastening his cloak and stripping off the armor. Upon a table, he spies a decanter and smiles. 'Sweet Cousin...how like you to steal a gift upon my boat."
"Greetings, highness," Arctic says to Olwe. Olwe steps upon the docks and takes in the familar landscape of the home of the sylvan elves. His eyes travel across the people gathered. Nole follows his king upon the docks, looking upon the nrew faces before him. "Greetings to you and yours, Highness."
Olwe looks up and smiles a little, a little uncertainity playing about his eyes as he searches the elf's face. "Greetings, my Lord." Arctic Ranger chuckles. "Oh, I am no lord, my good sir...just a ranger here." Olwe smiles. "Well met, Ranger, and warm greetings. There is no 'just' with a ranger."
Zuul-Faulkes hangs quietly in the air among the branches of the tree for a glimpse of the arriving Teleri. It was as Elric had said. ArthurPendragon Alecto says to the ranger, "Commander, I do like the closeness of the trees. Can they move from this place as yet?" Elenwe trails behind her king and Nole, gazing about at the new land and people. Arctic turns to Olwe. "Are you ready, Highness? The Queen has been expecting you."
Olwe smiles gently and nods., he looks closer and his eyes narrow, searching the features. "You are Atani?"
"Atani? I know not that term, I am sorry to say. I would like to be on the move soonest, highness....we have more security at the Queen's island. There has been unusual movements of late here what with that new empire forming west of the realm."
"I seem to remember you, once, but you were much younger. Atani is the Quenya for human. Oh, yes, of course, and thank you."
"I believe we did meet once or twice...though from afar." Arctic Ranger bows. "Highness....I am to escort you and yours to the Queen's castle. If you would be so kind as to follow me."
Olwe nods. "Please, Ranger, if you would be so kind." Nole follows his king.
Elsewhere, where the moon is full and the night sky dark. the children of Lolth dance and twinkle in the skies above, the waters of the bay lap upon the shore in a rhythm like the stilling of a heart. Here, in Sylvahara, as the visitors move out of sight, Gray moves silently along the shore matching footfall to lapping wave. Zuul-Faulkes note anothr dark presence. "How now, Drow?"
Gray thinks to himself, "They called him king, your Highness, and he was going to meet a queen." He observes the tall ship and the lack of guards onboard. He slips into the water and swim silently to the mooring line. Slowly , silently , he traverses the mooring line and slips aboard the ship. moving along the corridors. He finds a chamber fit for a King and a table beset with food and wine.
On a table near a throne he finds a glass of wine and a bottle of wine. He smiles and reaches into his pocket. From his pocket he produces a small vial. he uncorks it and laying a finger nail from his pinky finger along the rim of the glass he places a drop of the poison onto his nail. slowly it runs downthe length of the nail as he circles his finger about the rim. He reaches into his belt and pulls from it a long thin metal spike he pushes the thin spike along the edge of the cork of the bottle and places three drops of the poison into the wine bottle. Quickly, quietly, he looks around and smiles to himself. The matron will be pleased. He makes his way to the deck of the ship and eases himself over the side and onto the dock. He follows the path the others had taken moving silently along the wooded path. He watches as a creature moves across the bridge at a run.
As Olwe follows the rangers, he smiles gently, noting the ranger's manner as he scans the land. Brianna Rioccan grins as she watches her Commander and holds her hands out. der and holds her hands out. Olwe looks at the Ranger and then gives a shy smile at the new person. Above them, Comet Quijote goes to the rail on the terrace. Molly Pexie turns as the Queen goes out the door and Brianna Rioccan feels its warmth and turns to watch the Queen. "King Olwe! My dear cousin!"
Olwe breaks into a great smile, his eyes lighting up with joy. "I thought you would never arrived, dearest," Comet continues. "My Sweet Cousin, who resides ever in my heart! Glad am I to hear your sweet voice," answers Olwe.
Elenwe arrives, escorted by ArthurPendragon Alecto, who motions to the Commander. He shows a single finger and points toward the docks. Arctic nods to Arthur. He turns to Olwe, and says, "If we are ready, please step onto the platform in front of me." Olwe nods at the ranger. "I thank you for your safe conduct." "Duty and honor, sir," answers the ranger. "Lucky is my dear Cousin to have such ranger."
Above them, Comet Quijote laughs with excitement like a young girl. Meanwhile, Arthur tells Artic, "I shall wait near the bridge, Commander." Once the elevator stopped, Olwe leapt from it and greets his Cousin," My Sweet, Sweet Cousin!"
"Olwe!"
"Comet!" Olwe rushes to his dear cousin and embraces her. Comet Quijote embraces him. "You are a spring flower, My Dear Queen."
"It is so good to see you. Please come inside and take your ease." Olwe smiles, the years dropping away, his face looking young and boyish in delight. Comet notices Olwe's companions. "Ah, greetings, and welcome." Olwe follows her gaze. " Thank you, dear Comet. May I present the sea merchant Nole and the teleri swordmaiden Elenwe. My Cousin, Comet, Queen of the Sylvan lands." "Your Highness," greets Elenwe.
"Nice to meet you, "says Comet. "Please excuse this unucustomed welcome, I am excited to see my kin. Please, let us go in."
Olwe blushes and smiles at his kinswoman, his eye fastened upon her. Arctic turns to the queen and says, " need to speak with the fae guard Commander. We have spotted something lurking near the dock...and I spotted a few strange flyers hereabouts."
Olwe follows Comet inside and smailes at all in the room. "Vedui, Highness," greets Llyra. Comet smiles widely. Olwe smiles at all in the room. "Greetings! How good it is to see you." "These are my fae guard." Llyra Constantine smiles warmly to the Queen's guests. "They are here to protect not only myself but, the King and his guests." Brianna Rioccan smiles and bows to his Highness. Olwe's eyes widened before he smiles in pure delight. "I have not met the fae before. I am glad that the Queen is so well protected."
"Next to me is Lady Llyra, Commander of the Fae guard and honored member of my court." Elenwe stares at the diminuitive creatues, foreign to her eyes. "Lady Llyra, I believe you have met my cousin, King Olwe."
"Commander...would you step outside for a bit?" Arctic turns to Llyra.
"Mae Govannen, Lady Llyra. How beautiful you are this night, as on other occasions," greets Olwe.
Llyra Constantine smiles and whispers in the Queen's ear, "My apologies Majesty..Commander Arctic needs to speak to me." "Yes, of course, " responds Comet. Olwe turns and smiles a the other guards. "Mae Govannen." She turns to Olwe. "Please, be seated, my Cousin., and your party." "Thank you, my dear cousin, but beauty before age."
Llyra Constantine curtsies, "And as always Sir, an honor to be in your presence..pray excuse me a moment." Comet addresses Olwe, "I am sorry to get you with my guards, dear cousin but, the times are most dangerous."Olwe nods, his face re-arranging into somber expression. Rhiannon Rascon looks at her commander and waits for orders. "We spotted a dark shape on the docks...my ranges are investigating. But...there have also been a few flyers in the air nearby," says Arctic. Llyra Constantine nods, having sensed the ancient's presence. Arctic continues, "and a strange demon claiming something about kinship with Faulkes."
"A dark shape..."murmurs Olwe, he turns to gaze after the ranger. Comet Quijote overhears low talk outside. Lyra is heard to say, "Rhia, check the vicinity immediately." Rhia nods. Arctic's voice is heard next, "Sso my rangers will concentrate on the ground...yo may want to have a few of your guard out on wide patrol." "Agreed, Commander," replies Lyra.
"I feared some ...person might hear of your visit. What a fine pair we would make for an attack here," Comet tells Olwe. "It would make a enticing target, I am afraid."
Dominique Darkwatch adds, "Yes....not much security here...we just walked right in."
Olwe slowly turns to his kinswoman and hands her the chest he had brought with him from the docks. Comet gives an "Ohhhh," grins and takes the gift. "I believe they are unloading the strawberries at the docks." Olwe smiles shyly. Comet Quijote gasps with joy! Olwe beams at his fair cousin's delight. "How could I forget them?" Llyra Constantine chuckles softly knowing her queen's love for the berries. "Lord Nole helped me gather them for you."
"I shall have it unpacked as soon as may be," says Comet. "Very kind of you, Lord Nole. I am overly fond." Comet Quijote pats Olwe's hand and squeezes it. Nole smiles. Olwe nods. He looks at the chest and then at his fair Cousin, the Queen. "I hope you like the chest. I am glad that the skill in shipbuilding can also create things which may grace a great Queen's palace."
Arctic is overheard to say, "Very well......you are all loyal Sylvans so you may stay...but please...no one is to go up to the castle level...agreed?"
"You always bring me the loveliest things. the finest elven craft, " says Comet. "I am forever thrilled to receive them and treasure them."
Olwe squeezes Comet's hand and his faces darkens with worry. "I have worried so for you, Comet. I could not stay away, but had to know you are safe."
Arctic's voice carries during pause. "Thank you. We need to control the environment up there...too many would confuse the situation."
Comet turns to the Teleri lord. "Olwe, what is the news from Alqualonde?"
Olwe sighs, bowing his head. "There are still but a handful of Teleri and not clues where the rest have gone...." Comet Quijote shifts uncomfortably with the noise below and nods slowly. "And the dreams, Comet....the dreams are worse. Great evil is coming." Comet Quijote grips his hand and looks into his face. Llyra Constantine frowns and nods in agreement, for all signs even in the elements pointed to such.
"I do know as much, Olwe. The signs are everywhere and the dark news comes from all directions. I hope to protect Alqualonde but, my forces are stretched."
Olwe draws in a deep breath. "I hear news of balrogs...Blessed Illuvatar! If that is true... if these are Melkor's balrogs...we are in grave danger. They do not fall easily to elven blades and arrows."
"Yes," answers Comet. "There has appeared a balrog from the volcano to the west. My warriors have not been able to kill him."
Olwe looks deep in to Comet's eyes. "You must promise me to keep your sweet self safe. Please, Comet, please. Should something happen to you, I dare not think of that."
"I shall do my best, Beloved. There are few places left that are safe."
"I have met one of the descendants of the dragons who escaped Melkor's evil those centuries ago. She was formidable but much less than her ancerstors under his control. We can only hope the same is true of the balrogs."
"That they may be deminished in power?" she asks.
"It is only a theory of mine...that as they become more a part of Ea,the mortal world, they may also be more limited in their powers."
" I cannot help but think, should this evil lord gain a place in this world once more, that all his servants will gain full power as they once were." Llyra Constantine speaks up, clearing her throat, "They would need energy to sustain their powers. Without it, they would be diminished traveling between the realms." Comet Quijote turns to Llyra. "Yes, true." Olwe catches the gaze of the Lady Lyra. "Your Queen bears the blood of the first born. That is no small thing. She is precious for her own sweet self but more so for that." Comet Quijote smiles at Olwe's affection for her. Llyra Constantine nods, her eyes declaring her knowledge of a cost she would pay for her queen.
"I fear that as well, and the dreams lend strength to my fear. We must get to the root of the darkness before it takes hold." He looks up and nods at the Lady's words. Llyra Constantine looks directly at the Queen with the warning clear on her face, "You and your kin must be protected, majesty, at all costs."
Outside, Brianna Rioccan flies closer. "Hear anything good Tosh? Maybe you should move away from the castle. I believe the Queen would like her privacy around the castle."
"This I intend," says Comet," but much conspires to spread my forces between several beleaguered realms. Aefelvinska seeks my aid and come to Sylvhara in exile."
Olwe turns to look at his fair Cousin. "Some news have reached us at that. and other elves have found Alqualonde."
"You will get more. The elves are being driven this way as their lands fall before the enemy. I hope you will draw some warriors, too."
Olwe nods at Nole. "Friend Nole has traveled to their realm, and there is also a balrog there." Nole nods. "Balrogs have been seen in the realm of Lannnell." Comet turns to Nole. "How many have been reported? Any idea of numbers?"
Nole answers. "One balrog was driven out of Lannell, and another was seen in the wastelands near Port Lluth."
Outside, Brianna responds to someone with, "Yes, I believe it is."
Within, Comet continues. "So, with the balrog rising from the volcano in my western lands, there may be 3?"
Olwe speaks. "I cannot think but the balrog allowed itself to be driven out. " Comet agrees with, "Once awakend, they do not sleep again." Olwe nods. "Nor are they turned aside from their mission."
Nole adds, "This is as was reported from our allies in Lannell when I visited Dame Ellyanna." Comet Quijote turns to Nole again. "I see."
"Olwe?"
"Yes, my Sweet Cousin?"
"I have heard rumors of some underdark drow, not from Torgan...Do you know anything?" Olwe looks puzzled at the word. 'Drow?" "Dark elves, Dok Alfar."
"Ah....I have heard of the movement of creatures looking like elves. But I know not what they are."
" I have some residents her but they are followers of the light here."
"I heard of the rise of the Torgan empire, and the dreams intensified. I see us in a pass, a large elven army..."
"Well, I am glad you see an elven army..." responds Comet. She pets Olwe's hand absently.
Olwe's voice trails off, his face disquieted. "Then at the head of the army...a miasma descends and sweeps through our ranks....I see elf-like beings storming our army, and our people falling to the dark cloud and the blades of these creatures." Olwe bows his head. "In the dream...I cannot get to you in time. I see you..I see you.." His voice trails off.
"The dark empress rises to the west of Sylvhara. Aryador has fallen and a new orc king resides there."
"It has? Then the rumors are true."
"Yes, says Comet, "A shadow empire ruled by a powerful empress and an orc king." "This bodes not well, " responds Olwe. "It was to be expected, " Comet reminded him. "I know them not as you do...as Alqualonde was uprooted and brought here, all are unkown to us." Comet nods. "Who is this empress," asks Olwe. "A worshpper of the abyssal Lord Nargoroth," she answers. Olwe shudders.
"Melkor rises in the elven lands. nargoroth rises to sweep all before him into darkness."
"Melkor? But he is imprisoned! Do we know he is freed? The last time he was allowed to walk among us all, untold thousands died." Comet nods. "Elves, humans, all. I do not know that he is freed but his servants appear. It is a sign." Olwe nods, his face grim. "I fear he does not need a body to cause destruction." "No, indeed," Comet responds. "He needs only power over those who would serve him. his reach is long." Olwe squeezes her hand. "I know."
"We need a plan, Olwe, and many realms to participate and to join us."
Olwe nods again, "We must form a confederation of forces...all our elven kin must lay aside any differences. And we must embrace all those realms, gladly"
"The smaller realms will not have a chance otherwise."
"I have thought to travel to Lannell and see the Western elves for myself." said Olwe.
Comet Quijote shifts uneasily. "That is a good start. I can also solicit my allies."
"And I must travel to the Mal'anar. The daughter of Xavi and Morrigan, who was fostered in my house...she is gone, like all the Teleri vanished."
"Gone? Home?"
"Vanished. There is no trace of her."
"As the others," says Comet.
Olwe nods. "As the others..." his voice holding a note of deep sadness. "Lady Elenwe and her travelling companion are all that is left of the fabled swordmaidens of Alqualonde. All those who took up the way of the sword after the kinslaying...they are gone." Comet Quijote feels her stomach churn watching Olwe's pain. "And they must make due with lessons from one guard and a rusty old king."
"I know it is the sadness of your life, Beloved. Perhaps Alqualonde will rise again."
Olwe looks at Comet. "Earwen is safe in Tirion, at least. The great sadness would be to lose you, dear Cousin.....or to be forever parted from Tilion. But already we are apart. He has been summoned to Manwe's side."
"Olwe, if I am lost it will mean that Sylvhara has fallen never to come again."
"We must not lose Sylvahara, or all will truly be lost, Comet."
"It is time to join forces. It is perhaps late...but we must try," says the Sylvan Queen.
Olwe squeezes her hand. "This world was made for the Children of Illuvatar, for all his children. We must defend it against the likes of Melkor."
"We are behind the evil macinations of our enemies and have felt joy in the sun. Behind in realization."
"Perhaps we have grown complacent," muses Olwe.
"We shall stand together, Dearest."
"Hope remains....even the Fae, who have ever been full of peace, yet even they are choosing to fight. They will come and aid the Elves.." Llyra smiles lovingly at her Queen. "Yes, they would fight for the one who gave them a home in a dark world."
"You are still a king from a great and noble line, even without your people at present. Take heart. let us plan a defense and gather what warriors we may."
Olwe smiles at his Cousin. "I have seen the sun rise several times, now. And so now I have something to compare your Queen's greatness to." He blushes. "And you are still as lovely and as determined as when you were a mere slip of an elven maid." Comet Quijote smiles at the memory of happier times with her cousin.
"We must plan a defense."
"We will use our charms of persuasion to convince our elven allies that need is dire," replies Comet.
"I must return to Alqualonde," says Olwe, "but seeing your sweet face calms my heart a little."
"Alright, Dearest."
"May I send one of the swordmaidens to be trained by your noble knights?" asks the Lord of the Teleri. "Of course," she replies, "anything."
"Embrace me, Beloved," says the Queen of the Sylvan elves. "Gladly, " answers Olwe. Comet holds Olwe tightly. "Dear Cousin," she says. Olwe whispers in her ear. "Be safe, Sweet Sovereign. I should die inside were you lost to me."
"I will enjoy your gifts." Olwe smiles and winks. "There are more where those came from." Comet Quijote allows herself to laugh softly. "May you have a safe trip home."
"Thank you, Lord Nole," says Comet. "You are very welcome," replies Nole. "Shall we depart, my friends?" asks Olwe.
"Farewell to all," says Comet. "Farewell, Queen Comet," says Nole. "Blessed Be!." says Llyra.
Olwe fills his eyes with the sight of his Cousin as he departs. "Until then, my Cousin." He turns and leaves without a backward glance. Comet Quijote waves. Nole, Elenwe, and Olwe leave the gracious castle of Queen Comet and follow the paths through the trees of Sylvahara. They decend down to the docks, their hearts were heavy of the news they have learned, but their feelings kindled by the kindness of cousin Comets' words. Nole skillfully readies his ship for sail, to return back home.
Olwe stands aboard the ship as they pull away from the harbor, watching it shrink from view. Then as Lord Nole busies himself with securing the ship, he turns and goes to his cabin, unfastening his cloak and stripping off the armor. Upon a table, he spies a decanter and smiles. 'Sweet Cousin...how like you to steal a gift upon my boat."
He takes up the bottle and opens, smelling the liquid.Olwe's nose wrinkles. The smell was rather sharp, but he replaces the stopper and returns to the deck. Sword still strapped to his back, he looks at the sword maiden and merchant." Perhaps we should drink to hope, my friends, and then, if Elenwe would like, some sparring?"
> Next