Elbren sat in the Lothlorien Guild House, sharing a pitcher of dark Elven ale with his Guild mates Erinhue, Idril, and Mirdain. It was a soft, spring afternoon; and the three were laughing amongst themselves as they played a game of dice.

"It's nice to be able to just sit back and laugh," one of them voiced.

"Agreed," Elbren nodded, "it seems that we get too few of afternoons like these."

"Is that a hint of gloom, I hear?" Erinhue asked, grinning.

Elbren seemed to think for a moment, not yet ready to speak, "Well, if you must ask...matters have arisen that may require a band of Mithril Knights to...travel."

"That is not so odd, is it?" Idril asked.

"No," Elbren shook his head, "I received a report from the Guild House by the Sea that disturbs me. I will go straight to the point: The Mural that tells the tale of Luthien and Beren has changed, and that only happens if something is shifted in the actual Great Weaving."

"Meaning?"

"Meaning this: the Mural has shifted to show that Beren was slain by Morgoth and that Luthien became his slave. You all know how grave that could be if the Weaving solidifies and becomes reality."

"But...how?" Idril exclaimed, alarmed.

"I don't know, but we all remember how Turin used the trance to go to Nargothrond and try to change events there," Elbren replied, "perhaps someone else has learned how to use the trance and has gone to attempt---"

"Getting a Silmaril!!"

Elbren nodded gravely, "We all know that there are others who know how to travel using the trance method. It seems to me that someone, or a group of 'someones' has traveled to the lair of Morgoth and has changed the weaving in their attempt to take a Silmaril."

"So we must go back and make sure that the past happens as it should?"

"You know the Oath; we can change nothing. But, we can act to prevent change."

Elbren had ensured that a modest feast had been prepared for the two new Guild members; word was sent to Erinhue and Idril, along with the rest of the Knights currently in Lothlorien, that a dinner in honour of the new members was being held that night in the Guild House.

Upon their arrival, Nenya and Parador were shown their rooms within the Guild House and allowed the time to rest, bathe, and relax before the dinner party was convened.

However, upon the ninth hour, just after the Star of Earendil had arisen in the night sky, the Mithril Knights came together within the dining hall of the Guild House.

Upon the table was venison flavored with rosemary; chowder freshly made from trout caught within the Silverlode that very morning; freshly baked breads with olives baked within; fruits and nuts, and wine in magnificent silver goblets.

Elbren entered the Guild House and made his way to the Dining Hall, taking his place at the head of the table. The other Mithril Knights came to stand behind their chairs, as did Elbren, awaiting all to arrive before they were seated.

Elbren smiled at Nenya and Parador, gesturing towards two empty seats near him, "Welcome, please, you will sit here. We only await the arrival of a few more of our Order."

They did not have to wait long; soon they were all gathered. Elbren nodded and then spoke a verse from the Mithril Knights' Code of Honour, as was customary at such gatherings, "Courage and honour endure forever. Their echoes remain when the mountains have fallen and crumbled to dust."

Another Mithril Knight replied, "A Mithril Knights' word must have the validity of a signed and witnessed oath. Thus give thy word sparingly, but adhere to it like iron."

They all nodded and then took their seats as the food began to be served...

Idril had readied herself with care. She wore one of her best dresses and her Mithril Cloak to the dinner. She had crowned her head with 5 small braids and then made one thin long braid down her back and left the rest of her hair loose underneath the smaller braids. She wanted to look nice for Mirdain and hoped that he would be able to sit by her, as was his custom.

She arrived at the Guild Hall and hung her cloak up then made her way into the dining hall. She was eyeing the place a bit differently now knowing that she was responsible for this wonderous place and all its contents. And she smiled as she saw the other Knight's, shaking hands with some and nodding to the others. She took notice of the newcomers and she nodded as her customary place was halfway down the table. She wondered if Elbren had other 'reasons' for this dinner. It was rare that they were all together at one of the Guild House's so the dinner was not to surprising. They probably had much business to conduct.

They said the 'Customary Code of Honour' verse's, they sat and dinner was being served to each of them when Elbren began by making introductions.

Tempest took her seat at the table and glanced around at each new face, smiling gently at those whom she recognized. Her own face seemed different than before, as if the hard lines had somehow softened with time. She even managed to surpress her normal withering look at Erinhue, nearly causing the bard to choke on his food in suprise.

Elbren nodded at Tempest as she took her seat; he was very glad to see her at the meeting and hoped that she would accompany them on their newly appointed task. An icy shiver ran up Elbren's spine as he thought of where they must go: Thangorodrim. The throne of Morgoth. The bowels of Middle Earth.

As he looked up, he saw Tempest watching him; her eyes spoke that she had seen his fear.

"I thank you all for coming tonight," Elbren said quickly as the talk quieted around the table, "and as some of you have surmised, I do have some announcements to make. First, let me introduce our two newest Guild members, Sir Nenya and Lady Parador. They will be mentored by Lady Idril and Lord Erinhue. Please make them welcome."

The Mithril Knights clapped and indeed did make the two new members feel very welcome and at east. "Anything that you need, Sir Nenya and Lady Parador, will be provided by the Guild. Your Knight Mentors will ensure that you have the proper equipment at all times. Now," Elbren continued, "we have a few more matters. First, Lord Mirdain and Lady Idril have recently accepted the task of being the Lord and Lady of this Guild House. On our last adventure, which took some of us into Mirkwood and then into the fortress of Angmar, we brought back several relics of power. They are now housed here in safety, and for this time, shall remain so."

Murmurs of approval and voices of congratulations were given to Mirdain and Idril. A toast was made and more wine was poured.

"But," Elbren began again, "a summons has been sent out to our Guild maters who are not here tonight. Soon, we must make all haste to the Initiation House and make a journey that none of us, probably, has ever thought to take."

Elbren could not but help look over at Tempest as he spoke, "Need will take us to the very fortress of Morgoth. We must enter the trance and journey back to the time of Beren and Luthien. We must ensure that their tale is not changed."

Silence sat upon the dinner table like a hammer of steel. "Something has happened?" voiced one Mithril Knight.

"Yes," Elbren nodded gravely, "the Mural that portrays the tale of Beren and Luthien is changing in the Initiation House. Someone who knows how to travel the ancient paths is attempting to alter the past. We must stop them."

"Does this excursion involve a visit to Morgoth's fortress?"

Elbren's eyes turned again to Tempest; he answered simply, "Yes."

Nenya reached over taking Parador's hand in his and smiled...she could see that he was pleased to be here...she returned his smile

As she listened to Lord Elbren speak, her mind took another path...she was thinking of the warm reception both she and Nenya had received from the valiant knights,...their kindness made it easier for them in feeling welcomed...The hospitality was more than they had hoped for...a warm bath and rest helped restore her energy...for she would be needing it...

the road that lay ahead of her and of Nenya's, would become well worn...a road traveled with experiences of the heart, mind, and soul...A path she looked forward to traveling on...

Parador continued to listen intently on every word Lord Elbren spoke

The trip from the Grey Havens had been an uneventful one. Orodreth had been working with the ship-wrights since his return from the quest for Norod, taking pleasure in the simple lifestyle of the elves of the Havens. The summons had come unexpectedly, the Knights were gathering in the Guild house of Lothlorien. The rune next to Elbren's name indicating that he should make all haste, and so he had packed quickly said his farewells and departed.

He had been greeted warmly by the Galadrim, many of whom he had known for ages, and ushered quickly to the Guild hall. There he had been met by the hall steward who took his gear and led him to the dining hall. Elbren sat at the head of the table flanked on either side by various members of the guild. Erinhue and Tempest to his right, Idril and Mirdain to his left. Next to Erinhue sat two with whom he was unfamiliar, both wearing the tunic of squires. Orodreth bowed to them all. Elbren rose and bowed in return."Greetings brethren." said Orodreth. "It would seem that the work of a Mithril Knight is never done. Perhaps after the feast one of you could bring me up to speed?". Elbren spoke,"Certainly Orodreth, but please be seated and join us, we will soon be traveling a dark road and meals like this one will be few and far between. I will brief you in the armory afterward." Orodreth bowed again, and took up his seat next to Tempest, who leaned into his ear and said,"Late again, old friend. Some things never change.." Orodreth smiled, grabbed a flagon of ale and proceeded to down it,post-haste.....

Elbren was most happy and relieved to see Orodreth enter the Guild House. The Knights would need every resource available to them on the upcoming quest, and every Knight who was able to answer the summons was one more strength added to their enterprise.

When the meal was completed, Elbren spoke again, "Lady Parador and Sir Nenya, your mentors will now take you to the Guild Armory and help you select gear for your training. Time presses upon us; the Knights will depart within three days to Morgoth's lair. Your mentors will prepare you as best they can. If any of us can be of assistance, please just ask."

Elbren then leaned over to Idril and Erinhue, "Spend much time with them in the map room and make sure they are familiar with the territory to which we will travel. On the morrow, take Lady Parador and Sir Nenya with you both to Dol Guldur; Radagast awaits you there with some items for our upcoming quest. Do not tarry in that place for very long; we depart in 3 days, I want you both back here for the quest."

Elbren then looked at Orodreth and Tempest, "If you two will accompany me to the map room, we have some planning to do, I think."

As they left the dining hall, Tempest could not help but swallow as she thought of going to Mordor in the time of Morgoth. She wondered briefly who might be responsible for the change in the tapestry, and a few names quickly came to mind, all of them distasteful to her.

She was not well versed in more ancient history; the present had always been too pressing for her. As Orodreth, Elbren and she entered the chamber in which the maps of Middle Earth hung on the walls or lay strewn about on various tables, she found herself asking the question that pulled at her heart most.

"You must pardon me, Elbren, for I do not know the history of Luthien and Beren as well as the elves. I know of Morgoth and his doom, but tell me plainly: Where is Sauron at this point in history? Please tell me that he is not present in Morgoth's lair. I fear any encounter with him would be most....most unpleasant for me."

They had already stepped into the chamber and stood before a great map that revealed Middle Earth in her eldar days. Tempest's eyes traveled across the lines, her mind making note of the changes since that time. "I know this realm well," she said, touching the dark section of the map, "But I fear it may be vastly different than the way I knew it under Sauron. Morgoth was a different sort of Dark Lord. But in my mind, he always paled in comparison to Sauron's evil."

Elbren nodded at Tempest's words as he gestured for them all to be seated at the great table in the center of the large map room.

"Pour us some wine while I find the scrolls I want to show you," Elbren said, pointing to a tray of silver goblets. "I well understand your concern," Elbren let out a deep breath, "Let me say, and this is indeed an understatement, I am more concerned about this undertaking than ANY journey I have ever attempted before."

Perusing the shelves, Elbren finally selected three scrolls and brought them back to the table, unrolling them and laying them atop each other. The top scroll was of Beleriand and showed all of Middle Earth as it was known in the First Age. Elbren pointed to the realm of Doriath.

"Here is the world during the time of Beren and Luthien..somewhere around 468, First Age," Elbren took a sip of the wine, "we will enter in Gondolin, in our Guild House there, and there we will meet with Curufe, I hope, if all has gone as planned. We must make all haste to the North, following the river Sirion, to...here," Elbren's finger trailed the map up the river to a place between two ranges of mountins, "Tol-in-Gaurhoth."

"Isle of Werewolves!!" Orodreth exclaimed. "Elbereth help us!"

"Let us hope so," Elbren agreed, studying Tempest's face with concern, "so, to answer your question....yes, we may very well meet with Sauron...in his werewolf form. For," Elbren explained, "we do not know if Beren is dying during his imprisonment here, before Luthien and Huan's rescue, or if he's dying in Angband."

Tempest's face was smooth and emotionless, but Elbren could sense the turmoil beneath that mask.

"Shall I continue?" Elbren finally said.

"Yes," Tempest said simply.

"We can probably pick up the trail of Huan and Luthien along the river, if our timing is right, and ensure that she is successful in her rescue of Beren," Elbren sighed again as he sat down, "it will be tempting to rescue Finrod as well..."

"But we must not," Orodreth shook his head.

"No, we must not," Elbren echoed sadly.

"Go on, please," Tempest said quietly.

Elbren took out another of the scrolls lying beneath and laid it on top, "Beren was wounded and needed healing, so they rested awhile. Beren finally stole away, on his own, to Angband, here," Elbren pointed to the Iron Mountains, "but Luthien and Huan followed and in disguise, and through Lœthien's powers, they passed the gates of Angband, and the great wolf Carcharoth that guarded them. Coming before the Dark Throne itself, she wove a spell that put Morgoth and his court into a deep sleep, and Beren cut a Silmaril from the Iron Crown. Returning to the gates, they found that Carcharoth barred their escape. Beren held up the hallowed Jewel to protect them, but the monstrous wolf bit off his hand, and with it consumed the Silmaril. But the Silmarils were blessed by Varda herself, so that any unclean flesh that touched them would be withered and burnt. The wolf's innards were consumed with that burning, and it ran howling into the south. It is our task, mellyn, to ensure that they leave Angband with the one Silmaril."

"But you've forgotten something," Orodreth said, leaning back, "someone has changed the past already, or the mural would not be changing."

"Correct," Elbren nodded, "but, I've said that. What have I forgotten?"

"We will likely encounter whomever that is, yes?"

"It is possible," Elbren agreed.

"And whomever that is...is probably a Mithril Knight," Orodreth stated.

"A Mithril Knight who has broken his or her Oath," Elbren nodded again. "The likely candidates are Celegorm and Curufin, I would think. They were the ones who imprisoned Luthien in Nargothrond and who refused to rescue Beren and Finrod, due to their Oath to their father, Feanor."

"And yet, once Beren and Luthien had gained entrance to Angband and entranced Morgoth and his throne room, what better chance to take the Silmarils?"

"Precisely what I was thinking," Elbren replied.

"Tell me more about this Isle of Werewolves," Tempest asked.

"It is an island in the upper reaches of the Sirion where Finrod built Minas Tirith," Elbren pointed again to the map of the river Sirion, "it was built by Finrod Felagund, but his brother Orodreth was the Lord of that Keep. Sauron captured it around 457. It was originally called Tol Sirion."

"And so became the fortress of Sauron, Lieutenant of Morgoth?" she asked quietly.

"Yes," Elbren looked concerned, "if you do not wish to go with us, I understand. I leave that to you, Lady Tempest."

Tempest got up slowly and walked to the other side of the room. She was very quiet for several moments as she stared at the many maps that lined the walls, as if seeking some sort of guidance from them.

Finally, she turned back to Elbren with troubled eyes. "I fear that, if I should go with you, I may be more trouble to you than I am worth. You say that someone has gone back to that age and is trying to change the past. If I go, I fear that I, too, may be tempted to change the past, for my life's sorrows are wrapped up in the rise of Sauron. If we should come across him in that Age, I could not tell you what I would do. The hatred I hold for him is greater than my loyalty to the Mithril Knights."

She paused and began to pace back and forth across the room, her fingers running over her armor and tapping it repeatedly. "On the other hand, I could also be of great service to you, for I know much of Darkness and it's ways. The land itself has not changed so much in all these years. I have often felt that there was some reason for my life in Mordor, some greater good that I could perform with the knowledge I gained there, from the suffering and darkness I endured." Again she stopped and turned a pleading gaze to the elves who stood alone with her in the room. "Yet, I cannot decide. Too much hangs in the balance. I leave the decision entirely to you, my fellow Knights. Do what you think best. I will abide by your decision."

Without hesitation, Elbren replied, "We have been through much, you and I, and I know that you are strong, Tempest. To be truthful, I was elated to think that you might join us on this quest; we need you. I need you to go." Elbren smiled, though he looked timid, "There, I've said. I, too, would change some things from this time, this VERY time where we dare to go. But, I must not. You must not. Perhaps together, we can lend strength to the other and endure this. If you leave it to me, I would have you go."

"Very well," Tempest said with a deep breath. "I will go."

Elbren nodded and pointed back to the map they had spread upon the table. "We have much to do now and we must examine our path with care."

"When we enter the Age, where exactly will it leave us? What part of the land will we be in?" Tempest asked, trying to reconcile the thought of going with the work that needed to be done. Elbren was right; she was needed on this mission and their future depended on its success. Besides, she thought with a smile, it might be amusing to see Sauron in the strength and know how his end will come.

Elbren nodded at Tempest's reply, "Good!" He exclaimed and then turned their attentions back to the map, "we will enter into the Guild House in Gondolin. Turgon will not question our leaving, but he will none too pleased either; but, we will not be in the hidden city for long. His Oath as a Mithril Knight will allow us to leave without hindrance," Elbren then drew a line with his finger upon the map, heading North up the river Sirion. In between two mountain ranges was an isle in the middle of the river, "This is where Sauron is holding Beren and Finrod, and many others as well." Elbren pointed back South, down the river, to Nargothrond, "Luthien is being held here against her will by Celegorm and Curufin. Huan, the Hound from Valinor, will soon aid Luthien in escaping from the brothers and they will make all haste to the Isle of Werewolves. We shall not interfere with Luthien's rescue of Beren, but we MUST ensure that Beren does make it out alive. Once that has been accomplished, we will leave the trance, return here to Lothlorien. With a brief rest, we will enter the trance again and this time," Elbren's finger went to the most North point on the map, where the Iron Mountains protruded, three peaks prominently standing near the edge, "we will go to the very lair of Morgoth. Most likely, we will have to enter it; I see no other way to make sure that no one interferes with what must happen."

"And what will we do if someone does try to take more Silmarils or somehow interrupts Luthien's spell in the throne room?" Orodreth asked.

"We must act to ensure that Beren and Luthien leave alive with one Silmaril; we must ensure that the other two Silmarils are left in Morgoth's crown; we must ensure that no one interferes with what history says happened," Elbren stated firmly, more for himself than anyone else present. "It will be tempting, VERY tempting, at least for me..." Elbren sighed, "I hated that Finrod Felagund perished in Sauron's dungeons. He was one of our first Guild Masters and one of the most noble Elven Lords to have ever been born..." Elbren shook his head, "but we must not change anything."

"As much as that is true, what you say, Elbren, I was thinking that the Silmarils would be more of a temptation than anything else," Tempest studied her friends' faces closely, "do you not see that as the real danger? How tempting is it to know that you can take the other two Silmarils from the Iron Crown, right then and there?"

"Apparently it is that very temptation that has led someone to try and do precisley what you propose," Elbren replied quietly.

The three sat in silence for a moment, "But all is not that grim," Elbren tried to smile, "Radagast knows of our quest and has sent some maps and information to us about Morgoth's lair. Erinhue and Idril are taking Nenya and Parador to retrieve these items tomorrow morning. As soon as they return, and it shouldn't be any longer than a few days, we will depart for this quest."

With that, the three bid the others good eve, "Your rooms have been prepared here in the Guild House," Elbren told them as he left, "or you are welcome to come to the Great Tree and take a guest room there. I leave it to you. Either way, let us meet tomorrow and further discuss our plans."

Curufe rode north from Nargothrond, heading for the crossings of Teiglin. For a long time Curufe had been troubled by the actions of his nephews, but felt bound to them by his oath of service to Celegorm, and their old friendship, which however was weakened under the increasing darkness of Celegorm's spirit. Orodreth spoke to Curufe one evening, telling him that some Mithril Knights had a quest, but they were unfamiliar with the lands of Beleriand, and would need a guide. Since Curufe was known to be trustworthy, though he was of the House of Feanor, he would be sent north, to meet the knights. And so north he rode.

Orodreth took his leave of Elbren and Tempest, heading for the guest chambers to prepare for the upcoming journey. His mind raced at the prospect of entering the Dark Lord's fortress. Many of the Mithril Knights were young, to them Morgoth was a name of ancient legend, almost myth. The magnitude of what the Guild Leader was proposing was lost on them. They knew it would be dangerous, but they had no idea just how perilous it would be. Orodreth knew, Orodreth remembered. Shaking off a sudden chill, he quickly found his resolve. What they were doing was neccesary, whatever the outcome......

Elbren first looked in on his sleeping twin daughters, Lorfindur and Rosmarien, before he retired to his study chamber in the Great Tree. Here, he began to make notes and draw his own paths as he contemplated the quest ahead.

We shall need Idril's Veil he thought how else will we dare enter into Morgoth's lair? How else will we make it to his throne room? Elbren shivered involuntarily, For that matter, how in Middle Earth are we going to get OUT?

Luthien had disguised herself and Beren; that was how they had gained entry into the Dark Lord's throne room. But who could offer them such an enchantment now? His wife, Carnimiriel Isilraen could; but, she was not a Mithril Knight and could not journey with them through the trance to the different Ages.

How awful will it be to know that we are not even going to try and save the life of Finrod? Elbren hated this most of all; even more than the thought of leaving the Silmarils in Morgoth's iron crown.

But you haven't SEEN the light that is within the Silmarils

Elbren nearly jumped out of his skin at the voice, but then he realised that he had fallen asleep at the table and had begun to dream.

Or, had he?

Later that night, he dreamt of a tall, shining Elf standing before him, The Light of the Two Trees are within those jewels; they are the greatest work of ANY Elven smith!!! Even the Valar wished to own them and hide them away from all prying eyes

Elbren was confused in his dream; who was this? What did he mean?

The Valar never wished for that--- Elbren argued with the dream Elf.

Oh, you wouldn't know, you weren't there! I was!!! I saw it!!! Even Morgoth lusts for these jewels...they are beauty beyond anything you have ever dreamed, Elbren

I have heard of their beauty Elbren felt very threatened and trapped, there are many things of beauty, some made by Elven hands that I have seen

The Elf laughed, When you see them, Elbren, you WILL want them. ALL who gaze upon the Silmarils lust for them!!'

Elbren woke to Carnimiriel shaking him rather hard and looking at him with sleepy, yet concerned eyes, "Wake up! Elbereth, what a dream! You nearly knocked me out of the bed!"

"Did I?" Elbren sat up quickly, for the feeling of entrapment had not yet faded, "I'm sorry..."

"Nightmare?" Miriel asked, still studying him closely.

"Yes," he sighed.

"Want to talk about it?" she asked.

Elbren shook his head, not wanting to recall the Elf or his voice, "Not now." He threw his covers back and reached for his robe, "In fact, I think I'll go and read for a bit."

"Want some company?"

Elbren smiled, "You don't have to get up...but..."

Miriel grinned back at him, "I'll make some tea."

With Idril gone and so many of his friends preoccupied with their own plans for the upcoming mission, Mirdain set his mind the duties of his new position. He spent a few hours clearing a storage room with a nice window that would be his study. Then, he placed the books he had foudn in Carn Dum on the shelves, and then placed the harp he had found against the wall below the window. A good start, he thought. That done, Mirdain roamed all through the Guild House, trying to learn it's intricacies while entertaining the Knights that hadn't gone to bed yet.

Late in the night, he noticed that a light was still on in one of the guest rooms. There he found Orodreth, looking more serious than usual, and even a bit worried. Mirdain thought he would try at conversation.

Orodreth, I know you're one of the few of us that has already experienced something of the events we are about to be a part of.

"Yes, they will not be prepared. Morgoth at his height was power beyond imagining. I'm not sure it's a task we're well-suited for. We have 2 brand new knights, and you know, no offense have not been with us that long."

I am scared, Orodreth. I don't know if that's enough to prepare me for the danger, but as a Mithril Knight I will not falter any more than I have before. I will do what is asked of me, no matter what.

"I know you will. I know everyone will. May Eru's blessing be on all of us."

Indeed

"For now, I should be getting some rest. Tomorrow could be hard day, and i've done all I can to prepare myself mentally for now."

As should I. For my part in the preparations, i think i'll study those books we found in Carn Dum some more. There might something useful. Also, i'll see if there are any interesting things my crystal can do that I haven't discovered yet. Lady Carnimiriel did help me to unlock some of it's rather mysterious potential.

Elbren stood within the grand chamber of the Guild House, deep within the heart of Lothlorien's capital city, Caras Galadhon. He was disturbed, for he had dreamt every night of the Silmarils. He knew that time was pressing; they had to set forth soon.

He had asked Orodreth and Tempest to help him prepare the grand chamber as an Initiation Room; there was not time to journey to the South and the Initiation House. All along the walls, torches flickered, creating dancing shadows upon the stone. In each corner stood a censer where herbs and resins burned and smoked. The Mithril cloaks for the two new members had been woven and prepared with the chants and runes; they now hung upon the South wall in anticipation of their new owners.

Yet, Elbren knew that all had not gone well for the quest. The wood was troubled and the winds had brought tidings that did not bode well.

Dressed in a silver robe, crowned with a silver and gold filet, and belted with woven silver, Elbren stood with his head bowed. He prayed for their safe and timely return.

Idril was exhausted by the long hard ride that they had endured to arrive on time. She went to the rooms that Elbren indicated for her but eyed the hallways and rooms for one that she missed dreadfully. She did not see him so she went ahead into the rooms Elbren suggested.

She walked in and turned back around to shut the door. She then turned around slowly and noticed that there was something there on the bed so she turned up the lantern so that she could see better.

There on the bed was a single rose and a note ... both from Mirdain.

I haven't had a chance to see you since you got back. It relieves me more than you could imagine to know that your endeavor was sucessful and you're back safe. How unfortunate that we have to leave again so soon. Nevertheless, at least I can protect you this time and be personally there. That is a great comfort. Roses don't do justice to your beauty, but still, I hope you like this one. I'll see you when you wake up.

May our flame burn ever brighter.

Love,
Mirdain

Erinhue enjoyed the warm bath and comfrotable room as only one who lived life on the open road was able to do. He suddenly found he was very hungry and devoured all the meat and bread and half the fruit on the tray in a suprisingly short time.

Biting into a plumb red apple, Erinhue sat on the bed and stretched out his long legs. He would sleep until the initiation ceremonies were done and then go join the feast.

Old worm," he spoke to the dragonharp set on a shelf above his bed,"why don't you sing me the the Lay of Beren and Luthien, a rehearing is in order prior to our coming quest."

A few inquiring notes tinkled from the harp.

"No, no the longest most detailed version you know."

A single note responded.

"I don't care how long it is." The bard tossed the apple core in the air. Agarak spat fire at it and only ash fell to the floor. einhue lay back and settled down for his nap. "You hum in my head all the time anyway, might as well put it to constructive use."

Idril had sat looking at the note and then the rose. She smiled. Then she stood and went out of her room, looking for a vase and water to place the rose in. She went to the kitchen and found just what she was looking for and cut the stem again and then, placing it in the vase, she returned to her room. She re-read the note and she smiled again, as she laid down on her bed and was staring out the window at the moon in the night sky.

She fell quickly into sleep looking forward to when she would see Mirdain again.

She slept quickly and when she awoke, all was dark still. She must have only dozed off but felt totally refreshed. She stretched and then she sat up on the bed, realizing she had not even gotten under the coverlet. She reached for the candle and found something to light it with. When she did get it lit, she readied herself for the next journey and wondered where Mirdain was and if he was as anxious to see her as she was to see him. She would go in search of him and she wanted to take a few moments to take a quick walk around in hopes of running in to him.

There was a chill in the air so she also grabbed her cloak and headed out of her quarters towards the gardens which were just outside the kitchen. She heard nothing in the great house, nothing at all. So she quietly made her way through the hallways and downstairs. She emerged silently into the gardens and saw that the moon had set. That meant morning was close, even though it was still dark outside. She knew that the initiations were at least under way but there was no way of knowing anything more until Elbren sent for them. She would just get some fresh air before returning to her quarters.

She sat smelling the early morning air distinguishing each scent in her mind and naming each of them. She had come a long way from the naivŽ elf maiden she used to be. She was not only a skilled warrior but also a skilled healer. She stood as she remembered needing to replenish many of the herbs that she usually carried and she went to each in the garden and took only what she would need. She hummed ever so softly a song to herself ... so she thought. As there was another watching her not yet willing to announce their presence.

Mirdain watched her gather the herbs, sing the song. Deciding to play a little game, he did his best to immitate a bird whistle and sing along with Idril. After a few minutes, Idril turned and looked right at where he was, but either didn't see him or pretended not to. When she turned back around, he threw a small rock behind her, which made knocked over the pail she was using to carry the herbs and made a loud noise that startled her. Idril gave a groan a frustration and turned red-faced in his direction.

"Stop playing around, you could at least help."

Mirdain stepped out of the shadows laughing, and Idril couldn't help but laugh as well when she saw him. He helped her gather up the herbs and continue on her task.

"Cormamin lindua ele Ile. Nae saian luumŽ Melamin."

"My heart sings to see thee. It has been too long My love. I have thought of you often while gone. There was a time, I wondered if I would see you again." She stopped speaking and became reflective, remembering the dangers of the last quest she had gone on and what she had just said. She stooped to pick another herb and to hide her slight flush of embarassment. They had not yet spoken of their feelings to one another fully and yet she had had much time for reflection while travelling. The feelings and thoughts had finally convinced her. She had just been thinking of him and that was the reason for the slip.

"I thought I might need these herbs replenished, so came here to do so while I had the time, before Elbren calls us to the journey. I want to be prepared going into this next age, with healing herbs, I have a bad feeling about it but high hopes for a great outcome."

'As do I.' Mirdain responded, slightly still in shock at her opening words to him.

"Let us finish quickly as it is chilly out and I would like a warm cup of tea in front of the hearth and a talk with you. Tell me Sir, what have you been doing while I've been gone?"

They finished and took everything into the kitchen and put the kettle on the hearth to heat while Idril hung the herbs to dry the rest of the night.

Mirdain took off his boots and sat in a soft chair by the fire. For some reason, it was the most comfortable he could remember feeling in a long time. He began humming some elvish tunes from his boyhood that he'd almost forgotten. After a time, he got up and went to his study to get the harp he'd found on the last adventure, then returned to the room where Idril was. Not being as practiced at the harp as some of the others, he gave it a cautious try. Haha, Erinhue would probably cringe, Mirdain laughed to himself.

Idril smiled at him, then came over to join him, offering some tea.

"Send the summons to all who will come to prepare themselves and assemble in the great hall of the Guild House. Tis time for us to make ready for departure. Please ensure that the message reaches Tempest and Orodreth as well," Elbren told an Elven Mithril Knight who was assisting him.

Tempest listened without any sign of emotion as the messenger relayed the message from Elbren. She nodded and dismissed him, closing the door behind him and leaving her hand on the smooth wood for several moments.

She had had a long time to think over this mission, and she was now less sure of it than before. Every muscle and instinct within her cautioned her against ever placing herself in a situation where she might meet Sauron again. Yet, at the same time, she knew she could help to stop whoever had changed the past.

But, given the chance, would she not be tempted to change the past as well? If Sauron was somehow destroyed in the earlier age, then her whole life's tragedy would be rewritten. She sighed and picked up her sword, sliding it gently into its sheath. Who was she to change the past and future? She had learned long ago to leave such matters to those wiser than herself. She was a passionate creature despite all appearances to the contrary, and her emotions had led her into trouble at almost every turn. She had learned not to trust them, and so she overuled the impending sense of dread that tugged at her heart as she answered Elbren's summons to the Guild Hall.

Idril sat listening to Mirdain play the small harp and sipped her tea and then made some more. She liked being in his company and it gave her a great sense of peace. She became thoughtful and turned to lean back against him as he played. He was at first surprised but relaxed also as she was easy to be with. Their affection for each other was growing with each day. Idril enjoyed Mirdain's playing of the harp ... it was music to her soul and reached deep within her heart.

"I know that tune but can't remember the words. Would you happen to know them?"

'No, I can't recall them either but the tune is a fast memory.'

They sat in this repose for some time, listening to the tune Mirdain played over and over again.

There was a noise at the door and a Elven Knight stood there suddenly. He looked at them and Idril turned to him and stood behind Mirdain as the Knight gave a slight smile then said,

"It is time. Come ... prepare your selves and assemble in the great hall of the Guild House. Tis time to make ready for departure."

Idril and Mirdain nodded at the same time and she took the cups to the sink, as he grabbed the harp and together they left the kitchen. They seperated for a few moments and then met again in the hallway, both ready for the next quest, Mirdain took her elbow and escorted her into the Great Hall of the Guild House.

Mirdain greatly enjoyed Idril's company and the little bit of free time he had had. Now, with the summons, he did his best to put on a business-like attitude for the guild meeting. He knew the importance of staying sharp for the mission at hand. The harp was left behind, and the sword back at his side.

A knock at the door caused Parador to wake from a restless sleep...quickly she walked to the door, opening it...an Elven knight stood before her and spoke...'Lady Parador, the time has arrived...Lord Elbren has summoned the knights to gather at the great hall of the Guild House'

she nodded...'yes, I will be there...thank-you'...The Elven knight returned her reply with a nod and walked away hastily...she watched him as he disappeared

Returning to her room she gathered her things she would be needing...a fresh bowl of water was before her...she freshened up and quickly changed...sheathing her sword she made ready for the Guild House...but, before she could walk out...her eye caught her reflection off the shield that was laying against the wall by the door...she knew she would probably be needing it and thought it unwise to leave it...she grapped it and flung to her back where it rested comfortably as if it had always belonged there...there was something about the shield but, Parador could not quite lay her finger on it...at least not yet she couldn't...only time would allow her to unlock the secrets it held

Walking out of the room, she closed the door quietly...she had hoped Nenya would be waiting for her...but, her heart told her otherwise...something was wrong and she knew not why...she continued her walk to the Guild House with a determination to overcome what lie before her...and to help Elbren and the Mithril Knights keep the past from being altered, which would cause the future to be forever lost as they had known it

Idril, on the arm of Mirdain, entered the Great Hall and was greeted by Elbren. They spoke for a short time, as no one else had arrived and he mentioned his worry over Nenya's not showing up for the initiation. This came as a surprise to Idril and it showed upon her face. She asked if anyone had looked for him or gone to his room to check on him. Elbren said that he thought that Lady Parador had done so after she completed her initiation but was not for sure. He had his mind on 'the quest & initiaitions' so had been lax in sending someone to check on Nenya, he would ask Lady Parador when she came in and then take the necessary steps needed. Idril couldn't wait. She was worried and excused herself.

She walked, nearly ran, to where his quarters were and she knocked on each door, as she was unsure where he was. If she heard nothing, she took a quick peek to see if anyone was in the room, most of the time finding no one. She did knock on one door that looked to have been used for a time, but still, no one was actually there. For the most part the rooms were empty.

When she returned to the Great Hall, Elbren and Mirdain were still talking softly and she came up to them both and revealed her findings of nothing. She was now truely worried and wondered what could have happened to her squire?!? She kept this thought in the back of her mind while they discussed the upcoming quest.

Elbren nodded as Idril told of her search for Nenya.

"We must understand that he may not be ready just yet for the visionquest of the Giliath Londe," he said softly, "of course, he cannot accompany us to this next quest until he has witnessed it and understood the shifting of time and place..." Elbren thought for a moment, "we will leave near midnight. Meet in the Mural Room at that time and be sure to visit the armory and attire yourselves in First Age armors. Tempest will be accompanying us and I believe Orodreth as well. We can wait no longer, mellyn."

Mirdain went to the armory to properly equip himself for the journey ahead. He had decided to take the shield he and Idril had found what seemed like so long ago on their previous adventure. It was from the first age. He didn't think he would have a problem taking his own bow either. And of course, there was always his crystal. He traded in his sword, since it was covered with markings of Lorien and might cause alarm in the first age. Finding a suit of armor that fit him well was no trouble, being that much of the first age armor was made by elves.

When he was done, Mirdain returned to speak with Elbren and suggested that perhaps some kind of notice could be left behind for Nenya as to what exactly they'd done. Perhaps someone that was willing and able could even stay behind to administer the initiation rites, and then follow the rest of the party into the first age.

Parador entered the Great Hall and was greeted by Elbren and Idril...'My apologies Lord Elbren and to you Lady Idril...I have not seen Nenya since my vision quest...I too have been worried...my heart tells me he has left...it may be that trouble has developed in his Kingdom of Diadron needing his attention...and yet, it is not like him to leave so abruptly without giving word of his departure'...Both Elbren and Idril could see the concern etched in her face...she had not slept much in the last two nights

'I will be leaving for the Armory House next and then will meet you and the others at Midnight in the Mural Room'...she bowed respectfully to both Elbren and Idril then made her way to the Armory House

Curufe had arrived at the assigned meeting spot. He was still veiled, so that none could see him, but would reveal himself to the Mithril Knights when they appeared.

Idril took leave of Elbren to go into the armoury for herself. She had dressed for the quest but had not retrieved any of the 1st Age items she would need. She had asked Elbren about the sword she had found in the last quest and he said that if she liked, to bring that and to get herself some armour. So she went to the armoury and saw several knights were there so she went in and dug in a place that she knew had a mithril shirt with long sleeves and a pair of mithril pants. She then contemplated a sheild but decided to just go to her room and get the sword. She had stored it there before leaving with the squire's, forgetting it in the need for haste.

She walked quickly with the mithril armour over one arm. She came to the floor that her quarter's were on and she once again had the suspicion that Nenya was near or had been down this hallway. She was unsure why she had such a feeling and walked on to her rooms. She opened the door and then shut it again after entering, taking a long look at the room. She saw there the note and flower from Mirdain and she walked over to her bed, laying the armour on the bed as she sat, again smelling the rose and picking up the letter. There was that weird feeling again, as if something else had lain there on her bedside table. She re-read the note from Mirdain and then decided to save it in her trunk. She stood and walked to the foot of the bed, unlocking the trunk there and placing the letter inside. She closed the lid as she did not want to get involved in the reminiscence's that lay within.

Then she knealt beside the bed and pulled out the things under the bed that were wrapped in an old blanket. She slowly and methodically unwrapped the blanket, leaving it laying open. She took up the sword in its sheath and she stood with it, she unsheathed it and tested its weight and balance. It was old and yet looked new. After a few swings she could tell that it was well balanced but weighty and would need her two hands until she adjusted to its size. It was only a bit bigger than her Silmar but just as good in craftmanship and she thought that it would serve her well on this journey. She resheathed it and thought how to wear it, either in the same place as she did Silmar or at her side, she could not decide. Then she knealt down again looking at the other items that were just to big for the trunk. There was a shield there, just a little to wide to fit in her trunk. As she reached for the shield, she got that queer feeling again. THIS was enough! What was wrong with her? She grabbed the shield, blanket and all and jerked it up out from under her bed and she let them land on the bed hard.

Suddenly something floating down from under the blanket caught her eye and it landed again down under the bed, beside the small table just out of sight. She bent down to retrieve it and did not recognize the writing of her name on the note. She carefully turned the note over and took notice of the seal. She pulled out a small dagger and carefully, without to much damage to the seal, opened the note. It read ...

Lady Idril;

I am sorry to have to take leave on such short notice, and without completing my Knightship, but trouble in my homeland calls me there. Would you convey my apologies to Lord Elbren and the others and my love to M'Lady Parador for me. Watch out for her, protect her if need be please. She means the world to me. I will return when it is possible for me to do so.

I remain in your service,

Nenya of Diadron

Well that answered alot of her questions and she was surprised to have not found it earlier. It was probably due to her excitement at finding the flower and note from Mirdain that had her attentions. Or possibly he had delivered it as she slept or when she was gone to the herb garden and she had knocked it off the table somehow. Oh well it was here now and she would show it to the others when she returned to the Mural Room.

She undressed and placed the Mithril armour on. It was so light in weight that it was like putting on another skin. She then placed her tan colored clothes on again and then a mithril belt that was not only to keep her tunic down but could also hold the new sword if she decided to carry it at her side rather than behind her head. She laced up her boots and then grabbed her daggers, replacing them in their respective hiding places making sure that they would pass for that of 1st Age making. Then she looked to her bow and the shield again. Which to take? She made a quick decision on the shield and wrapped the short swords and the bow and quiver back in the blanket and stuffed them back under the bed. She braided her hair, bringing it forward over her shoulder, and placed the leather tye in the end tightly. She grabbed the sword's sheath and looped it around her shoulder and behind her, then slung the shield at her back also.

To top it all off, she put on her Mithril Knight's cloak and she was ready to leave again. She took a last look at the flower, making a quick decision, then crushed its petals in her hand, as she grabbed her herb pouch, tying it at her side and placing the crushed petals inside. She grabbed another pouch on a hook from behind the door and then she opened the door and left quickly. She had taken a little more time than she would normally, but was glad for the discovery of the lost note. She had that at her waist ready to share when she got to the Mural Room. She descended the stairs in silence and walked past the hallway that led to the armoury. She had all that she felt she would need so she continued on.

She arrived in the Mural Room finding Elbren talking with Mirdain and ParadorJ. They sensed her arrival and turned towards her. Mirdain smiled at her and she returned the smile. She walked to Elbren waiting his approval. When she received his nod she spoke...

"I found this under my bed. I am unsure of when it was placed in my room but it explains alot. It is from Nenya." She handed the note over to Elbren, who read it and in turn passed it to Lady Parador. It was as she suspected, trouble in his lands. She asked if she could keep it and was told by Idril yes of course. Elbren told her though not to carry it with her on this quest and she agreed. She sent the note back to her rooms with a servant.

They stood there awaiting the other Knights to come ready for the quest into the First Age.

Parador handed the note carefully to the servant as if it would break if dropped...the note was her last contact with Nenya.

She walked over to where Idril was standing...'I want to thank-you Lady Idril...The note means alot to me...Erinhue and you have been very patient with Nenya and I...and I have learned much from the both of you'

Idril smiled...'You are welcome Parador...I am only sorry that he could not stay...but, we understand his concern for his people'

'One day...he may return'

Parador nodded her head and tried smiling confidently...'yes,...one day'

She thanked Idril again and walked over to a picture window looking out into L—rien's garden...the moon was full making the beams of light shine even brighter...she noticed a shadow walking across the lawn...at first her heart stopped, thinking maybe he had returned...when the shadow collided with the moon light it was to reveal only Erinhue's face...she could see he was in a hurry

As Parador moved closer to the window pane, the moons midnight light glistened off an object that was hanging from her neck...she looked down to see the small Sun stone of Anar gleaming back at her...she stared at it in disbelief...the last one to wear it was Nenya...she had given it to him long ago...and now it was back in her possession

Looking back out the window her eyes began to fill with tears but, she would not let them fall...to have the Anar in her hand told her she would never see Nenya again...and she knew it in her heart as well...It was wisdom in him that they should depart their ways

Parador took a deep breath...she place the love she had for him back into an area of her heart that no one would ever find...tucking the stone safely inside her shirt, she stood resolute...turning back to the rest of the knights she walked back to join them...Parador knew this was now where she belonged

Mirdain had not know Nenya well, but felt compelled to offer words of comfort. Parador, I know this must be a difficult time for you. But let me assure you that you will find many friends in this guild, who will not only fight along side you, but will give comfort on the long road where you need it. I myself have found the thrill, and even the danger, of our adventures to be an exciting distraction from some of the troubles of life. In any case, I think that you will and Nenya will cross paths again soon enough.

Mirdain smiled at Idril, then began to pace around the room waiting for other Knights to arrive.

Elbren rejoined the Knights, throwing on his Mithril cape and adjusting his sword.

"Let us be off then," he said solemnly, "we are few in number for this quest, but we must not fail. Let us go to the Mural Room and be on our way."

The Knights walked to the Mural Room where the torches were burning low and the strong, rich smell of incense filled the air.

"Pull the hood of your cape up and over your head," Elbren told Parador as the Knights prepared for the crossing.

He then took a silver chalice that held a dark, odorless liquid within it. He took it to each Knight and they drank sparingly, for the liquid was strong. Finally, the Elven lord took a small sip and pulled his cloak up and around his silver hair. The world grew hazy, almost smoky, and then a nauseating lurch seemed to jerk him away...

.......moments later, the Knights stood near the river Sirion. It was just after dawn, Elbren thought, and glancing around, he realised that the crossing had not been smooth: They should have entered into the Guild House in Gondolin.

Something kept us from there he thought. Were the spells of Turgon even turning away the Mithril Knights?

"We have come farther West than I had intended," Elbren announced, "but we are not lost. We must hurry North with all speed and meet Curufe, a Guild brother from this Age. Do not speak to him of the future; this, too, is forbidden. We must reach Tol-in-Gaurhoth with all haste."

"Errr...on foot?" one of the Knights asked.

"Aye," Elbren frowned. He had hoped to get horses in Gondolin. But there was no time for that now. "We must run."

With that, the Knights nodded and adjusted their packs and gear.

"Let us be off," Elbren said and began to set a brisk pace along the river with the others following.

Curufe continued to ride north along the river Sirion, still managing through his woodcraft to avoid any orcish patrols. I should see them soon,Curufe thought.

By mid afternoon, the Knights had made good time and distance as they headed Northward. The Sirion lurched and rolled beside of them, the mighty river swollen, it seemed, from recent rains. There were brief pauses for rest and watering, but they did not tarry for long.

Elbren worried over where they would camp that night; and, as always, the concern of orcs and creatures of the Enemy crowded his mind. Morgoth was in constant search for the hidden kingdom of Gondolin, Elbren knew this from the histories; the last thing that the Elven Lord wanted was to somehow aid the Dark Lord in his searchings. And yet, he knew that they had to make all haste to try and reach Tol-in-Gaurhoth.

Had Beren been slain within those dark dungeons? Would they find Finrod Felagund still alive? How would they gain entrance into the dark fortress of Sauron?

It was with those thoughts in his head that Elbren first heard the sound of pursuit behind them. The Knights all came to an abrupt halt in their gait, listening with keen ears, no one uttering a word.

"To the brush! Hide!" Elbren whispered.

The Mithril Knights scrambled, some of them notching arrows to bows and others drawing sword. Elbren found shelter behind some boulders, but he could clearly see the marks of their passing out on the river's edge. Whomever was behind them, unless they were blind, would know that they were close by.

The sound of the pounding horse's hooves became louder and Elbren thought that he even heard the soft twinkling of tiny bells. His heart leapt that this might be a friend, perhaps even of the Elven kind.

Moments later, a magnificent figure upon horseback, clearly Noldor, came into view. He was wearing the Mithril Cloak of a member of the Order, and his eyes were intensely studying the signs before him on the ground.

"Curufe!!" Elbren shouted as he stepped forth from his hiding spot.

"Elbren!!"

Curufe dismounted and embraced his friend as the other Knights came forth.

"I am glad beyond words to see thee," Elbren said and meant it. "We somehow missed our rendezvous in Gondolin, and I fear that we shall not make it to Tol-in-Gaurhoth with the speed needed."

Curufe nodded as he studied the other Knights who now gathered 'round.

"Some of us you have met before," Elbren continued, "and new amongst us is Parador. Everyone, please greet Lord Curufe, a Guild Brother and our guide."

Greetings were given and accepted as Curufe's horse began to stamp his feet with impatience.

"Your noble steed has the right idea, I think," Elbren laughed, "for I, too, fear that time is not with us."

"Then it is to Tol-in-Gaurhoth that you would have me guide you?" Curufe asked.

"It is known to us that Sauron holds Beren, a mortal man, and Finrod Felagund prisoner, among others, in his dungeon. It is our task to ensure that Beren escape from their alive," Elbren explained, "it is also known to us that Luthien, daughter of King Thingol and Queen Melian, is in pursuit and makes for Tol-in-Gaurhoth as well."

Curufe's eyebrows raised in surprise, "The daughter of Thingol and Melian? This is strange news indeed. Has Thingol not sent his own garrison to protect his only child?"

"That is not known to us," Elbren replied, "it is not known to us if Thingol even knows where Luthien is now. Nevertheless, it is our task to get Beren out alive--"

"And Finrod, of course," Curufe said.

Elbren dropped his eyes to the ground, "No," he said quietly, "we must leave Finrod to his fate that is bound to the Oath of the Sons of Feanor."

Curufe started to argue, but then fell silent, though the look upon his face was unreadable.

"There are matters that are greater than you or me," Elbren said in Quenya, "I, too, would save the noble Finrod; but, that is beyond us."

"Then let us make all haste to save this Beren of whom you speak," Curufe said without emotion.

"How far?" Elbren asked as the Knights made ready to travel again.

"We can reach it by morning if we do not camp this night," Curufe replied.

"Then, that is what we will do," Elbren nodded, "let us go."

Parador quietly watched Curufe...she had not met a Noldor Elven before...this encounter intrigued her...she noticed his reluctance to not interfere with Finrod's death, she sensed no emotions from him at that moment making it hard to read him

They would continue on foot throughout the night making for Tol-in-Gaurhoth by morning...Parador set her mind to the task making ready the long night...Idril and Mirdain stood beside her...Elbren took the lead as the rest of the knights followed...Parador placed the hood back over her head and rested her hand on TœrRuin's hilt...she had to keep her mind alert to any dangers that might be around or close by...she could not allow her mind to become lax in the new surroundings, too much was at stake

Curufe stopped for a moment holding his hand up as a command to keep quiet...they all stood motionless...waiting...the silence penetrated their ears...the longer they waited; the louder the silence became...

Curufe slowly lowered his hand...Elbren walked up along side his long time trusted friend...

'What is it Curufe...are we in danger'?

'No Elbren, we are not...at least not yet'

'I thought I heard something...we can never be too cautious'...the tall Noldor knight motioned to Elbren and the other's to continue...

Parador walked quietly behind the other's...her thoughts began to travel back to what Mirdain has said to her earlier...it brought comfort to her healing heart...she looked forward to the building of friendships and the adventures that await her...she thanked Mirdain for his words of encouragement...his timing had been perfect

'Lost in thought'?...Idril spoke quietly to her...Parador quickly brought her thoughts to the present...she blushed deeply...knowing she needed to pay attention and not wonder off...Idril sensed her embarassment

'Its ok Parador...this is why we look out for each other...so when we get lost'...Idril's voice trailed off

'Thank-you Idril...I guess I was lost there for a minute...in my thoughts...long enough to be caught off guard'

They both smiled and nodded as they continued their walk to Tol-in-Gaurhoth...

Curufe was deep in thought, for the past few weeks had been very busy ones for him. The recent actions of his nephews Celegorm and Curufin were deeply troublesome to him, yet out of loyalty he did not speak his mind. But he saw that the curse, that age old curse, troubled those two perhaps more than any of the other sons of Feanor. And this piece of information was also troubling. Was he supposed to just let his king die? And yet, how could he betray his oath to the Knights? He knew he could not. Curufe had at this point yet to betray his oath of service to anyone, even Celegorm, and knew well the perils of interfering with events that were "supposed" to happen.

Idril had made the journey well. She was strong and liked to run so was well conditioned. When she noticed that Parador did not quite have her mind on what they were here to do. She had to remind Parador that they were here in a different time and place, a dangerous time and place.

"Remember Parador, try to keep your mind focused on the here and now of this age while we are here for there is danger all around us. There will be plenty of time when we finish here and are 'back home' to think of other things." Idril gave a definate emphasis so there was no doubt in Parador's mind that she meant the Mithril Knight Guild house in their time. "And as for this night's journey, take heart and run as long as you can. And if you are in need of walking, just put your hand up using the stop signal and we will let Elbren or Curufe know and we can walk for a time. It is hard to keep running when you are not conditioned for it and we don't need any injuries because I of us becomes exhausted from the run." Elbren and Curufe were alerted to the hand signal that they would use and Idril said that in the dark one of them would whisper 'stop' or whistle for a stop.

Soon after that they started to run again and they made good time along the Sirion heading for Tol-in-Gaurhoth. They ran well into the evening and stopped again for a rest, a quick bit of lembas and a cool drink. Idril noticed that the sun was waning to the west and that the sunset would be a spectacular one. She looked to Mirdain, hoping that he would see where her train of thought was. Then she glanced at Elbren, who seemed worried about many things that he was not voicing. Idril went to try and draw it out of him.

"Elbren what troubles you? Share it so that the burden for you is lighter and the rest of us can know your mind."

"It is the quest we are on. How can we rescue Beren and yet leave behind Finrod? Our arrival also has set us back a bit but we are making good time. It is also known to us that Luthien, daughter of King Thingol and Queen Melian, is in pursuit and makes for Tol-in-Gaurhoth as well. I am trying to weight all the possibilities of what can happen versus what might happen. I know that I am resolved to leave Finrod to his fate, no matter what might present itself, but it will be a struggle for us all to not go against history and try to change it even in the smallest way. We need to hold each other accountable, one to another. Once we reach the city, none of us should be alone. If possible we will try to stay together if our party size doesn't raise suspicions but that in itself may be a problem. Getting to Tol-in-Gaurhoth is the least of our worries as we have an excellent guide." And with that Elbren looked at Curufe and smiled.

They finished their meal and took another refreshing drink and stood and stretched before starting out again. Idril and Mirdain stood hand in hand watching as the sunset in glorious oranges and reds then they turned back their backs, ready to begin the run.

It was less than an hour before dawn, though the starlight in the East was already growing dim. The Knights had made good time and with Curufe's expert guidance, they had met with no other living creature. And now, before them, in the center of the great river, Sirion, was the dreaded Isle of Werewolves.

However, it had not always been the lair of Morgoth's lieutenant, Sauron. In fact, Sauron had held the island for only a scant ten years. Finrod Felagund had first built Minas Tirith to guard the Upper Pass of Sirion and had given his brother, Orodreth, the captaining of the keep. Orodreth had lost the isle to Sauron FA 457; and now, ten years later, Beren and Finrod were captive somewhere deep within its dungeons.

The Knights were taking counsel in a small gulley just back from the river's edge. The exact dates of Luthien and Huan's arrival at Tol-in-Gaurhoth had never been recorded; so, the Knights could not be sure if Luthien had yet freed Beren.

We can't even be sure if Beren is still alive to BE rescued by Luthien Elbren thought.

"It will be light soon," Mirdain said, gesturing to the East.

"And we cannot risk another day," Elbren took a deep breath. "The only way to see if Beren is still alive is to go into the dungeons. The only way to ensure that he does survive, is to stay in the dungeons."

Elbren knew that the look of grimness that he now saw upon their faces was even upon his own. No one in their right mind would want to march into the dungeons of Tol-in-Gaurhoth, Isle of Werewolves.

"Agreed," Curufe said simply, "do you have any ideas for getting into the dungeons without alerting Sauron to our presence?"

"Oh, but I don't plan to sneak into the dungeons, Brother," Elbren replied, "I plan to have Sauron throw me in himself."

A moment of shocked silence cascaded over the group, but then voices of protest began to erupt. Elbren held up his hands, "There's no faster way to get into the dungeons than to get caught on the Isle as a trespasser. An Elven trespasser. But," Elbren shushed them again, "we don't all need to go in. In fact, I mean to go alone while the rest of you make sure that Luthien and Huan make the bridge to the Isle. There, Luthien will begin a song of power while Huan guards her."

"Elbren," Idril began to say, "we should send two inside. In case...trouble is met at the bridge before the capture. At least, perhaps one will survive the wolves."

Elbren looked from Idril to Curufe and then back, "Perhaps you are right. But I will not ask anyone to accompany me."

"She's right," Mirdain spoke up, "you should not go alone. One more of us should go."

"And I would gladly be the one to accompany you, if it is your wish," continued Mirdain. "In the deep darkness of the dungeons, my crystal could be a light to us where nothing else could. Though I have great reverence for the life and deeds of Finrod, I was not yet born when he met his fate. I have no personal attachments, except perhaps that he is the brother of the Lady Galadriel, who was like a mother to me. Perhaps I would be more able to resist the temptation to rescue him."

Elbren nodded at Mirdain, "I will welcome your company, Mirdain, and be glad of it. Your crystal will indeed be a light to us in that foul, dark place."

Idril looked as though she wanted to say something, but she held back her words with some effort. Curufe began to draw in the soft sand with his finger.

"This bridge leads across to the island. It is guarded by Sauron's wolves," Curufe frowned, "beyond that, this is the main tower keep."

"You have visited here, Curufe, when Orodreth held it?" Elbren asked.

Curufe nodded and continued to draw the keep as he remembered it. It was finally decided that Curufe, Idril, and Parador would find a hidden place in which to keep watch and set a small camp somewhere back farther downstream. It was assumed that Luthien and Huan would come from the South, probably taking the same path that Curufe had chosen for them.

"We have to keep Beren alive," Elbren explained, "until Luthien arrives. She will sing a song from the Bridge that he will hear, and then, eventually, she will free them and destroy the fortress. Many prisoners were freed with her song, not just Beren. We shall hope to be amongst those who were freed," Elbren nodded at Mirdain.

"And we shall ensure that Luthien gains the bridge and holds it for the song," Parador stated firmly.

"You just have to stay alive within those dungeons for a few days," Curufe said solemnly.

"That we must," Elbren nodded. "Prepare to leave."

Idril continued to hold her tongue which was extremely difficult for her. She knew that Elbren was well aware of her 'Veil' and that if he felt it would be needed, he would not hesitate to mention for her to come along with him. Then again, she was upset at the thought of Mirdain going along to these dangerous dungeons. Why not take the one who knew the twists and turns of the dungeon like Curufe?! She sighed deeply, refocusing on what they were here for. She now reminded herself of the mission for she had just lost sight of it. They were here to save Beren and get themselves back home.

She focused her mind of the task that would be theirs and to get Luthien onto that bridge to sing the song that would release the prisoners. She thought to send a small herb pouch along with them for sustaining them as they were sure to be stripped of all they now carried but how to hide it? A small pouch would do so she quickly dug into several herbs, mixing them all together into a fine powder and quickly made two small pouches; enough for a week to sustain them. They were very small and would fit nicely in a boot and due to the powdery quality, would not bulge or be felt in a search. Unless they were completely stripped! She would pray to Eru that would not be the case.

"Here before you take leave. These small pouches can be hidden in a boot or sock, as long as you are not made to strip, you should be fine. I have combined several ingredients and these will sustain you even without food or water. It will also help aid in healing any wounds ....." her voice trailed off as she could not think of either being beaten, or worse. "There is enough in each to last for a week or a little more if used sparingly. Even enough to share if the need arises. A pinch chewed will give strength quickly. If it is stuck in a cheek and let sit, it will satisfy where there is no food. The more sparingly it is used, the longer it will last. My Prayers will follow thee both."

Idril handed the small pouch first to Elbren. He took her arm in a customary shake and held it for a moment, speaking to her quietly even beyond elven hearing. She nodded and smiled. Then she turned and handed the small pouch to Mirdain. They both placed them quickly inside their boots not wanting to waste any time relacing. When she handed Mirdain's to him, they held each other's hands a moment longer than was necessary. Idril then quickly gave him a kiss and then said,

"May Ilœvatar guide you and keep you both save until we are reunited once again. Tenn‡ ento lye omenta Mellonea."

With that Elbren and Mirdain quickly looked once more at the map drawn in the dirt and then with a boot, Elbren erased all evidence of it at a nod from Mirdain. They headed off towards the bridge as Curufe, Idril and Parador headed back the way they had just come. They quietly discussed finding a useable tree or if a campsite on the ground would be best. They all kept their eye's peeled for a good tree or area for hiding.

Mirdain and Elbren both sensed the presence of the guardian wolves. Mirdain wondered if the enemy could sense them as well. Not that it really mattered. He only had to remember to not act aggresively, so that they would treated aggresively in kind, but instead taken prsioner. Mindful of Idril's warning, Mirdain was worried that his crystal might be taken in a search. Taking the band that held it from around his neck, he carefully wrapped it around his head and strategically tucked the crystal itself into his long hair.

Still worried about a few things, he turned to Elbren. Do you think we will be conducted directly before the presence of Sauron? I wonder if he will sense that we do not belong in this time.

"Finrod may have been brought before him, but we will probably not be considered important enough to warrant such direct attention from him. Even if we are, I do not believe his powers extend so far that he could discern our true origen."

Good, then I am relieved, if any relief can be taken from this situation. How exactly will we reveal ourselves in order to be captured?

"You'll see."

Elbren and Mirdain made their way carefully towards the bridge to the Isle of Werewolves as the sun began to fully rise in the East.

"Sauron does not know who Finrod is," Elbren told Mirdain, "the histories tell us that he tortured and killed everyone in Beren and Finrod's party in an attempt to get them to confess who he is and where they came from."

"EVERYONE of them?!" Mirdain asked.

"Yes," Elbren nodded grimly, "the only one from Beren and Finrod's party to survive was Beren."

"Dare I ask the manner of their deaths?" Mirdain asked gloomily.

"Torn apart by werewolves," Elbren replied, "in the end, that is how Finrod perished as well."

"This is becoming better by the moment," Mirdain's face was pale.

"Let us just hope that Luthien arrives soon," Elbren agreed, "I've been in a few dungeons in my time; I don't fancy another one for very long."

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

They reached the bridge within minutes and Elbren had barely notched an arrow to his bow when the first wolf charged them and bells of alarm began to sound from the fortress.

"That was fast," Elbren said as he took aim at the galloping and HUGE wolf.

But the wolf was agile and it easily avoided Elbren's hastily aimed arrow. It leapt at the two Elves as Elbren stepped nimbly aside, but Mirdain was not as fortunate. Elbren looked over his shoulder to see the wolf hit Mirdain squarely in the chest and knock the Knight off of his feet. Elbren was instantly upon the wolf, dagger drawn, as Mirdain fought for his life.

The trio rolled as they fought until finally someone's blade, (they never knew whose), found the final blow that took the wolf's last breath.

"Not good," Mirdain announced, scrambling to his feet and finding several deep gashes on his arms, hands, and chest.

Elbren winced at his friend's bleeding wounds, "We'll use some of Idril's herbs once we get inside---"

A horrendous howling and growling interrupted them as they turned to see three more Wolves coming at a full run towards them.

"What now?" Mirdain asked.

Elbren did not honestly know, but they had not long to contemplate it. The wolves quickly had them surrounded and held them at bay with ferocious eyes and snarling mouths. After what seemed an eternity, heavily armored guards approached and roughly disarmed the Elves.

Binding them tightly with coarse ropes and shackles, Elbren and Mirdain were then led directly into Sauron's presence.

Once they were at a suitable distance, the small company stopped and began to set up camp for the night. "No fire," Curufe warned. "We do not want to be spotted by Sauron." They set up the tents, and gathered again at the center of the camp. Curufe drew a quick map in the ground. "This is Luthien's likely route. As Elbren said, we need to find her and make sure she arrives safely."

They had heard with their keen hearing, when the werewolves had found Elbren and Mirdain. Idril had quickly ascended a tree to see what she could and when she came back down again, she told the others.

"They've been taken. It looks to be very heavily guarded with the werewolves as sentinels then the real guards show up later." She said little else but worry now etched her brow.

Once camp was set up, Curufe drew in the dirt. They were trying to put together a plan to watch for LuthiŽn.

"Shall I climb the tree again and watch for their approach?"

"That might be the best way to watch for their approach'

"I could use the call of a bird or squirrel to get your attention once I spot them. What are we to do once they are here? I was thinking that we weren't suppose to interact with Luthien. Are we to become her guards?"

Curufe sat thinking how much of this plan should he divulge ... and when? He decided that now was as good a time as any to tell some of it. He looked at Parador and then again to Idril and Tempest and wondered what they might know already. He was a little leary of people he just met and did not know but he knew the reason's that they were all here and that was to help. He looked back down at the dirt and started to explain to them what they needed to accomplish here, why and how.

The halls, not so long ago, had been beautiful. There were still signs that this had once been a stronghold of the Noldor Elves; Elbren could even see runes upon the walls that spelled the name of both Orodreth and Finrod Felagund. But now, just ten years into his reign of the former Minas Tirith, now Isle of Werewolves, Sauron's presence permeated from the stone and mortar like deadly venom.

Mirdain and Elbren were led down the darkened hallways, torches sputtering as they passed by, until they reached two vast doors. Again, Elven in their making, but now covered in what looked like some sort of soot; undoubtedly, they led to the great hall of the fortress.

The doors opened without a sound and the two Elves were pushed roughly into the room. Elbren glanced over at Mirdain with concern, for the wolf's claws had dug deeply into his flesh, and Elbren worried that blood loss might soon make his fellow Knight weak or ill.

"Ah, two...Elvesssss...."

The voice was at once cruel and pleasant, rich and oily somehow, but it made Elbren jerk his eyes to the throne chair that now was before them.

"Interesting," the voice continued, "we seem to be having a lot of Elven visitors as of late."

There was power within the voice that was mesmerizing. Sauron stepped forth so that Elbren could see him a bit more clearly; and as he did so, Elbren's breath caught in his throat.

He is.....almost beautiful to behold Elbren thought to himself with surprise and dismay. But, of course....he did not lose the gift of a fair guise until after the fall of Numenor."

"I see that one of you met with the teeth of one of my pets," Sauron continued, stepping closer to Mirdain, "pity....you will probably be feeling ill a bit later."

Sauron leaned closer to Mirdain, who drew back instantly. "I could probably give you something to lessen the pain that you will feel once the venom takes hold," Sauron offered.

Mirdain's eyes shot over to Elbren, and in those eyes, Elbren could clearly see the pain from the wounds taking hold.

Do not forget that he is a master of many things...words....suggestion....he is making your wounds hurt more than they should with his words Elbren spoke to Mirdain with the Galadrim dialect of Sindarin, hoping that Sauron would not understand fully.

"Indeed, I am," Sauron replied, taking a step towards Elbren, and using Quenya, "I am master of many things...Elf."

Elbren could not hold the dark Maiar's gaze and so he averted his eyes to stare at the wall in front of him. He could feel the probe being attempted upon his mind by Sauron and so he tried to relax and think of only the stars and the nightsky and Elven songs that he knew carried powers of protection.

Abruptly, the probe stopped. Sauron hissed and suddenly grabbed Mirdain by the throat, startling both Elves.

"There's something....different about you two, though," Sauron seemed to regain his calm demeanor. He touched Mirdain's cloak with interest as he released the hold upon his throat. "I've seen these elsewhere," Sauron mused thoughtfully, "yes...but where?"

Elbren sent a silent prayer to Elbereth that they would be safe and protected, though, at the same time, his heart was sinking. How could he have ever thought that they could enter Sauron's dungeons and survive?

Sauron laughed softly, "I shall enjoy having you to...toy with. However, I can also make your stay here very short and a bit more pleasurable than what I have in mind at present. Nothing to say to that? Let me be plain then: I have a great many of your kind in the depths of this place. They have been there, many of them, for a very, very long time. You can join them in their misery...or, you can tell me what you know."

"I will die first," Mirdain said in reply.

"Yes, you probably will," Sauron agreed, "those wounds are awfully deep. Are you having trouble breathing? I thought so."

Sauron left Mirdain standing there, struggling to draw breath as his suggestion became power, and walked to Elbren.

"You know, your friend probably won't last long down where I'm going to send you. You will live longer, but you will wish for death, I assure you, ere the end comes. The Dark Lord rewards those who--"

"I will tell you nothing," Elbren spoke quietly.

Sauron hissed again and turned away, "VERY WELL! Take them to the pits! We shall see how long it will be ere they beg to return and tell me what they know."

Guards emerged, different ones, and Elbren could not tell if they were Human or Orc or....something unnaturally in between. They were nearly jerked off of their feet as they were led away from Sauron's presence, but Elbren did not care. He simply wanted to be away from the darkness.

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

"Keep an eye on them, extra observant," Sauron told his dungeon master, "they know something...I can sense it."

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

Finrod had not built Minas Tirith to be a place for prisoners, thus, the dungeons were not vast nor were the cells great in number. There were horrid cries of pain as they descended the stairs, but Elbren tried to ignore them and make a thorough study of their path.

This must be leading us to what was originally designed to be the storage cellar or armory Elbren whispered to Mirdain in Sindarin.

"NO TALKING!!"

Elbren was cuffed by one of the guards, but not before Mirdain nodded in agreement. Elbren could see the sweat upon Mirdain's skin and the glaze forming upon his eyes; yes, Mirdain was hurting and his wounds needed tending.

They were tossed into a cell that, surprisingly, had fresh straw and even a window, high up, where the river breeze could be felt blowing inward. The window was well out of reach, but still, it brought comfort to Elbren as he heard the cell door lock behind the guards.

"Let's take a look at your wounds," Elbren said, "and then we'll see if we can locate Beren and Finrod."

"You have found them," came a voice from the dark.

At that moment, Finrod stepped from the shadows into a patch of light shining through the window. Mirdain could not help but be awe-struck. Power just seemed to emanate from the great elf-lord. Mirdain, despite his pain, stood out of respect, then tried to bow gracefully but fell to his knees. As he did, the crystal was shaken loose from his hair. Finrod caught a glimse of it an was intrigued, sensing that Galadriel's power was in it. Elbren caught Mirdain and laid him on some straw before quickly standing and greeting Finrod in the proper manner as well. Elbren spoke; quickly I have to heal him, then I have much to discuss with you Lord Finrod.

Finrod replied, "perhaps I can be of assistance."

Elbren knelt by Mirdain. Crushing some of the herbs Idril had given and mixing it with a liquid he had secretly store in his clothing, he created a pasty substence. Some of it, he had Mirdain swallow, the rest he applied to the worst of the wounds; there was not enough to cover everything.

Finrod stood over them and began to sing a song of power. Mirdain twitched violently, and Elbren looked worried. Finrod reassured him though; "My song draws the poison out. You have also done wisely with your healing items. The effects of the evil that has touched will probably remain with, and he may have recurring sickness at times for the rest of his life. However, he will not die...at least not from these wounds.

None of us will die. I tell you we must try to escape! said a new voice in the shadows. A figure stepped forth. He was a man. He looked worn to Elbren, but his eyes shown with an intensity that demonstrated his nobility. Beren... Elbren said softly, and the figure nodded. Mirdain was still in somewhat of a haze as Elbren turned to speak to the two.

Tempest waited with the others in silence as they decided what path to take to find Luthien. Her thoughts, however, where not with the elven princess, but instead wandering through the dungeon halls with Elbren.

She had deliberatly not volunteered, for she knew it would not have been wise. Elbren knew this too, and when asking for volunteers, he had not looked in her direction. If she had come face to face with Sauron, there was no telling what she would have done or said. She could have seriously harmed their mission.

Yet, as she looked back at the towers, she felt drawn to walk their halls, to see the one who had been the source of all her suffering. She wondered if he was different than how she had known him, and she knew it must be so, for she remembered it being said that he was fair to behold.

She could change her past. She could prevent all the nightmares that invaded her mind everyday by destroying him. She knew that the others wanted to do so too, to change the past for a brighter future. She also knew that somewhere, there was another Knight who was trying to do the same thing.

Or maybe, it was one of these Knights who stood around her. The mural had changed indeed, but in response to something that happened in this timeperiod. Perhaps, unwittingly, it would be their actions that changed the mural. She shook her head. No, it could not be that. There must be another person.

Yet, as she gazed back one last time, she seemed to here that hated voice echoing against the stones and trees. She averted her eyes and tried to hide the terrible feeling that overcame her. The hatred. The black river of hatred spilled over its banks within her. And she could not avoid looking again at those towers.

Maybe, the one who had changed the mural, maybe it was her, or would be her.

"Luthien comes from Nargothrond," Curufe said, drawing an x in the dirt. "The best way from there to here is to cross the Teiglin here. There is a path leading northwards there which is just inside the Forest of Brethil, and so safer than the northern plains. Tomorrow we should make for the path. I can make sure none see us."

"Are only the two of you left?" Elbren asked.

Finrod had begun to do some more healing work on Mirdain while Beren paced the cell nervously. Elbren was more than worried: The histories told that it was only Beren and Finrod who were left when the attack upon Finrod, the one that would claim his life, took place. If they were the only survivors of Finrod's party that had set out from Nargothron, then Finrod's death and Luthien's arrival were both imminent.

Beyond that, now Elbren and Mirdain were in the same cell with Finrod and Beren. How would THAT alter the history?

"You are of the Order," Finrod said quietly.

Elbren turned to face the Noldorin Lord. Yes, Finrod was a Mithril Knight, although the Order had another name when he had first joined. Beren, too, would become a Knight, in time, and even help move some of the Nargothrond treasures to Doriath.

"I am; we both are," Elbren replied.

"I thought as much," Finrod nodded and then sighed, "we have been in these dungeons long enough for all of our companions to have perished within the jaws of Sauron's horrid wolves. I had lost hope of rescue."

Elbren's stomach lurched at the words as he thought We are not here to rescue you....we are here to make sure that you die and that Beren escapes.

"We have weakened," Beren spoke up, "but perhaps the four of us together can overcome the wolf when it comes and---"

Elbren held up his hand, "I---We...." His voice trailed into silence. What to say? How to explain?

"Speak what is in your heart," Finrod encouraged.

"M'lord, by my Oath as a Mithril Knight, I cannot tell you more than this: I cannot aid or attempt escape from this place," Elbren's voice was hollow.

Beren could not believe it, "What?! What do you say?! You will not lend aid to us in this time of need! We will DIE if we do not at least try!!"

It was Finrod who, this time, quieted Beren, "I will not ask you to break your Oath. Tell me this, at least, what are your names? Where are you from?"

"I am Elbren; and this is Mirdain. I can only tell you that we come from a very distant land; one unknown to either of you."

"You give me a riddle," Finrod laughed, but his laughter was bitter, "it IS my fate, then, to be caught in the snare of Feanor's Oath with no hope of escaping it."

"I cannot answer that, M'lord," Elbren replied, though his voice choked.

Finrod shook his head, but then he looked Elbren directly in the eye, "I hear thee."

"So be it," Elbren's response was mechanical.

Finrod then went into a corner of the cell and sat down heavily as Beren glared at both Elbren and Mirdain.

"I see that you are not of the Noldor blood," Beren finally spat out, "and that you have the look of Thingol and his folk upon you. This does not surprise me; we would not be here if not for the greed and arrogance of the Grey Elves. I should have known better than to expect your aid; I would even venture to guess that Thingol sent you to ensure that I do not leave this place."

Elbren could find no words to respond; the words cut deeply, but then, what had he expected?

"Beren," Finrod's voice broke the silence, "do not be so hasty to judge."

Beren turned his back upon Mirdain and Elbren and walked to Finrod, joining him on the floor in a dejected posture. Elbren glanced over at Mirdain, who looked as forlorn as Elbren felt.

She needed to distract herself, so Tempest focused intently on Curufe's plans. "We may have a problem," she pointed out, and the others turned to listen. "Remember that there is someone else here besides us, someone who wants a Silmaril and is willing to change the past to get it. If Elbren's suspicions are correct, the guilty party may be Celegorm and Curufin. Luthien may be followed, and most likely will be. How will we ensure that she helps Beren escape, for we do not know where the treachery will take place. It could be that Beren is killed long before Luthien reaches this place, though how that would happen, I do not know. Celegorm and Curufin would not be able to influence Sauron to kill Finrod and Beren, would they?" she asked, looking at Curufe for the answer. "Whatever happens though, we will probably have to accompany Luthien into the Isle of the Werewolves, for that is the only way we can ensure she is able to rescue Beren unscathed."

"We can't just introduce ourselves and travel with her," Idril argued.

"Do you suggest we watch from afar? I, for one, will not. We do not know who is behind this deed, and though I distain the thought of following her into Sauron's lair, I think we have no choice. It must be done. What do the rest of you think?" she asked, turning her dark eyes to her fellow Knights. Time was slipping away from them, but their course seemed unclear still.

"I agree with Idril, at least to this extent -- I cannot be seen by Luthien. She would recognize me instantly, and I fear would not bear me much good will, thanks to my wayward nephews. But I think we can follow her closely enough that we can prevent any ill befalling her."

Luthien, upon the swift and tireless back of the valiant hound, Huan was rapidly approaching the Isle of Werewolves. They came from the South, from Nargothrond, by secret ways they had escaped the captivity of Celegorm and Curufin...

It was less than an hour later when the guards returned. They entered the cell cautiously, but when Beren lashed out as they laid hold of Finrod, they mercilessly kicked him aside. Finrod was heaved against the far wall; that was when Elbren saw the shackles protruding from the stone. As Beren scrambled to his feet, some of the fresh straw was kicked up, and Elbren saw the dried blood upon the stone floor.

Beren lunged at the guards again, but they were finished with shackling Finrod to the wall, and now they subdued Beren to do the same. Elbren felt sick to his stomach. They probably could have overpowered the two guards; but could they have escaped the fortress alive? He doubted it.

Beren was firmly shackled, even as he cursed at the guards and spat at them. Elbren admired his courage and resistance. He did not have long to do so, though, as he was next to be pinned to the wall by the iron and chain next to Beren. Mirdain was dragged from his healing sleep and chained next to Finrod.

So, there they were: Mirdain, Finrod Felagund, Beren, and Elbren, chained to the dungeon walls and awaiting the wolf that would inevitably come for them.

Luthien must be on her way...she must be close...for tonight Finrod will die, and in that hour, Luthien will come and sing her song upon the bridge...and Eru willing, we shall walk out of this place alive Elbren told himself. He had to keep telling himself that; for, as he stood there, awaiting the wolf, he felt fear creeping into his bones and flesh.

"If that is what you think best, than so be it," Tempest said, though she did not like it. "Yet, I hope that Elbren and Mirdain survive Sauron's dungeons. How are they to escape?" Secretly, she was thinking What if their already dead? She was wise enough to realize that she must not encounter Sauron herself, for he would remember her face when he met her again, years and years from this moment, and it would not bide well for her.

Yet, she had a cold, unsettling fear in her heart, something she could not explain to the others. The land around her was different from the land she knew, but there lingered upon it the indefinable stamp of evil, something she knew well. She did not understand the bitterness and greed in the hearts of the elves, for their influence had begun to fade long before she was born. She was not familiar with their histories, except the darker side, with the horrors she had heard whispered in the dungeons of Barad-Dur.

Her mind was accostumed to darkness and she surveyed the scene before her with such a mind. If someone was to disrupt Beren's rescue, how would it be done? Where would it be done? If she was planning such a deed, she would...she would have....

Her eyes traveled like lightening to the towers. If it were I, I would make sure that Sauron or Morgoth knew that Luthien was coming. I would make certain that she was greeted properly when she arrived. But then again, I don't want a Silmaril, she thought to herself. Someone may need to use her song against Morgoth before she can be enslaved. So, Luthien must survive the Isle of the Werewolves, but not Beren. She will be prevented from rescuing him, and he will die. Finrod and he will die. And so will all that travel with them. If Elbren and Mirdain have found them.... She sighed and rubbed her temples. Too many questions without answers, and she hated being unprepared.

"Eru, protect them," she said aloud, startling the others.

Curufe nodded, as if he understood her. "We can not help them any more, but we must prepare ourselves to shield Luthien. Let us hurry, for already she comes."

Idril was glad for something to do. She climbed again to the treetops and kept a look out for Luthien. She sat there thinking how beautiful the landscape was, at least still was for the time being. She knew that it would change soon enough and drastically.

She heard a movement in the distance and she spotted what she had been awaiting. They were still a distance off but they were making good time and would be here soon. The movement of bushes and branches did not lie, someone was on their way towards them. She waited until she could confirm the identity of whomever it was. Once she had, she gave a bird call in unison with another and then descended the tree to stand with the other Knights.

"They are coming and should arrive here soon. Curufe there is something you should know about me ... I have a 'Veil' that can hide you if need be. Or you could hide under some bushes nearby so as to hear the exchange between us? It is up to you. What is our next plan of action?"

She suddenly heard the exclamation of Tempest "Eru, protect them," and they all agreed and said a similar quick prayer heavenward. They sat looking at the tracings in the dirt again, deciding on their final actions and how Curufe would conceal himself.

Mirdain's body was in pain, though he was farther from death than he had been. His mind was clear, and he sought to use it to sort out the complicated issues at hand.

Beren and Finrod were supposed to be the last two left down here. When a wolf came to take Beren, Finrod fought and killed it with is bare hands, and was himself mortally wounded. With us here, Luthien will arrive before the wolves have made enough trips to make Finrod and Beren the last two. We could be killed, and Luthien would rescue Beren and Finrod...drastically altering the course of history. It is imperative that Elbren and I get out of here, but not Beren and Finrod. What will they think of us then? First, we need to get out of these shackles. Finrod at least has to be free if he is going to kill a werewolf with his bare hands. I should be permitted at least to help with that.

"I have a plan."

Mirdain carefully maneuvered his back and shoulders to get his crystal around in front of him. Then, once he was able to see it, he began to focus as hard as he could on it to draw its power. It began to glow with white-hot intensity, and Mirdain was filled with an unnatural surge of energy that belied his condition. Pulling hard, he broke the cuffs on his hands and ripped the chains from the wall. Mirdain took a step forward, but collapsed to his knees as the power of his crystal faded and a feeling of being totally drained overcame him.

Mirdain felt helpless. He didn't have the energy to his crystal anymore, or even to move at the moment. His other weapons had been taken, and he wasn't sure how he could possibly free the others. "Use your heart and your mind," came the voice of Finrod. "You need only to believe that your are healed, and to believe in my words. I will be with you in the same way that She is apparently with you." Mirdain then heard Finrod singing an absolutely beautiful song that touched him deeply, though he was not quite sure why. He felt himself able to stand, and shakily did so. Elbren and Beren were looking quite perplexed at him, and he thought the song might have just been in his head.

Looking around the room hurriedly, Mirdain found a large enough loose stone to suit his purpose. He picked it up gently, for he was not at full strength. Then, signaling Elbren to be careful, he came at Elbren as fast as he could, and used his own momentum and that of the stone to smash the link that connected Elbren's chains to the wall. Footsteps and rough, heavy breathing were heard in the hallway outside their door. Elbren whispered, "quickly free the others." Turning, Mirdain saw that Finrod had already freed himself using his own great strength. There was no time to free Beren though, as two viscious-looking werewolves burst through the cell door.Two!? Is that right?

The wolves eyed the party warily, seeing that some were free of the chains. Sensing that Beren and Mirdain were the most vulnerable, the wolves immediately lunged for those two. Finrod bravely stepped in front of the wolf that came at Beren. Elbren, though his hands were still chained together, lept courageously onto the back of the wolf that came at Mirdain. That one barelled into Mirdain and knocked him backwards onto the floor. However, it could not do more damage, as Elbren had his chains wrapped around its neck and was choking it. The wolf bucked wildly and fought to get Elbren off its back. Desperate to help his friend and leader, Mirdain found the strength to use his crystal. His hands flared with white fire as he brought the crystal's power to bear. Directing that power at the wolf, he burned its face, and it reared back in agony. With one last great tug of the chains, Elbren choked the last life out of that wolf.

The two of them turned and saw the valiant Finrod wrestling head on with the other wolf. Their blook boiling from the previous battle, Mirdain and Elbren hurried to help Finrod, but were stopped by the cold, determined look in his eyes. "No, now is the time you must go."

Beren was clearly dismayed at these words.

Sweating, Aglanor woke up. Where am I? What happened? A sharp pain made him look at his belly. He saw cloth wrapped around it. Apperently he got hurt. But why can't I remember it? He thought back to the times he could remember. He remembered getting emmitted to the Mithril Knights. He remembered the phial, with which to get into a dream. But the dream was real. Or at least real enough, since it was possible to get hurt. He couldn't remember getting struck, though. It was all a blur.

He stepped out of bed, and looked around. He remembered the place. He went to the kitchen, and took what he needed to strengthen up. After a good meal, he went to the armory and saw his armor and sword lying there on a piece of cloth. They looked well kept. He picked them up and put them in place. It's time to get back to the past.

He walked to the room and saw everyone lying there peaceful, their bodies here, yet their minds in another world. He took his place, besides them. Within a few minutes he was gone.

He woke up in a forest. He had no real idea where he was exactly. He knew it was in Beleriand. He started walking west. He had the idea he was to the east. He would soon find out.

"My woodcraft is more than sufficient for me. Were Luthien looking for me here, I could not hide myself from one of her puissance, but then, I suspect your veil would not be of aid in that case either. But she is not looking for me, and certainly not you, so the point is moot. But Tempest will need to be hid. Soft! She comes." Idril listened carefully, and could hear the padded run of Huan, but Tempest heard nothing. Curufe vanished into the shadows, and even the eyes of Idril could not find where he had went.

The ground under Parador's feet began to tremble...the isle spoke to them of the terrible secrets it held and of the horror taking place in Sauron's dungeon. Idril and Tempest took notice leaving them to wonder what was to follow of this accursed sign they were being given.

Curufe disappeared leaving no sign of his earlier arrival, not even Huan sensed him as the hound approached the bridge. Cautiously he padded toward the bridge carrying Lœthien who gracefully rode atop the large wolf. Parador, Idril and Tempest were nowhere to be seen. But, from where she hid, Parador was able to see her beauty that had been sung in the songs of lore she had heard growing up in Ered Luin. She was entranced of Lœthien's presence and the aurora she commanded was without thought or spoken words. Idril whispered softly to her, 'she is here to rescue him,...Beren. And we must assist her if need be-stay alert Parador...I sense danger trailing close behind'

Without taking her eyes of Luthien and Haun 'yes, I will Idril...I promise'

Tempest spoke no words...she stood motionless holding Idril's veil in her hand. The warrior maiden had offered it to her friend knowing Curufe was right in his comment of Tempest needing to be hid. What all else would befall them if Tempest were seen by the Elven-maiden much less Sauron himself?

Huan came to a stop in the middle of the bridge. Lœthien slid off his back landing on the ground as gracefully as a wisp of light would alight upon the brow of a butterfly. To Parador she was poetry in motion; even curufe watched in awe of the Elven-maiden.

It was in the darkest hour of their plight when Curufin and Celegorm stepped out from their hidden abyss across the bridge in the Isle of Sauron. They both held their sword's in hand walking fearlessly toward Luthien and Huan. Curufe made an attempt to step out but quickly pulled himself back into the shadow's that concealed him. He clinched his fist against his chest, it was hard to stand there and not do anything. He thought to himself of a time when he would avenge Finrod's death, for he knew his king must die soon. But, Luthien must not taste of death...not now...not at this time.

Remembering her words to Elbren, 'we shall ensure that Lœthien gains the bridge and holds it for the song' gave Parador the courage to step out from the shadows with Idril close behind. Sword's unsheathed both Mithril Knights emerged into Lœthien's line of site...Curufin and Celegorm stopped their advancement long enough to notice what was taking place. Huan lowered his head and growled deeply baring the razor's edge of his teeth. He came forward and stood in front of Lœthien protecting her from which of the intruders he knew not...Celegorm was his master and the other two were strangers to him but, why was Celegorm here and who were these two sword wielding warriors...what did they have to do with Beren's rescue?

All the while Aglanor continued his 'race' to find and aid his fellow knight's in arm...He was hoping he would not be to late for he knew much was at stake.

Elbren yanked the cell door open, for it had not been closed after the wolf had entered, but instead of seeing freedom he saw three of Sauron's guards awaiting them. They had no weapons, but they had the urge to live, and that was probably all that did get them out of that foul place.

Elbren barreled into the first guard that he saw, crying out to Elbereth and Orome as he did so, and managed to unbalance his foe. Elbren viciously kicked the guard in the shins only to find that the guard was indeed well armored and only succeeded in bruising his own toes. Mirdain hit the guard then, though, and together they brought him down and managed to disarm him. Working together, knowing that their lives totally depended upon the other, Elbren and Mirdain slew the three guards.

Covered in black blood, they turned then back to see Finrod wrestling with the werewolf. 'Felagund put forth all his power, and burst his bonds; and he wrestled with the werewolf, and slew it with his hands and teeth; yet he himself was wounded to the death.'

It happened before either Beren, Elbren, or Mirdain could utter a sound; and, somehow, Elbren knew by the finality of the moment that nothing that they could have done would have prevented Finrod's death.

His fate was that tied to the Silmaril and, more importantly, to the Oath of Feanor. The Kinslaying. Elbren shivered from the odd feeling in the dark and chilled air. He even imagined for a moment that he heard someone laughing, and yet, he could sense weeping woven into the emotion as well. It was so very clear; and yet, so very full of shadow and movement.

Then, Elbren and Mirdain could hear Finrod speaking as he died, "I go now to my long rest in the timeless halls beyond the seas and the Mountains of Aman. It will be long ere I am seen among the Noldor again; and it may be that we shall not meet a second time in life or death, for the fates of our kindreds are apart. Farewell!"

Thus King Finrod Felagund, fairest and most beloved of the house of Finwe, redeemed his oath; but Beren mourned beside him in despair.

Elbren hung his head in sadness and grief; fate or no, to watch an Elf so noble pass from life to death was horrifying. Mirdain, beside of Elbren, bowed in reverence and anguish.

It was in that hour that Luthien began her song upon the bridge to the Isle of Werewolves. It sounded like nightingales and all in the dungeon, for there were many held by Sauron's evil hand, wondered if they dreamed; for the song was that enchanting. Elbren nearly jumped out of his skin when Beren's sudden, strong baritone voice began to sing in return. He sang the praises of the Seven Stars, the Sickle of the Valar, that Varda hung above the North as a sign for the fall of Morgoth.

The song joined with the echoes of Luthien's before, and the fortress began to fall under the spell. Elbren blinked his eyes stupidly as a feeling of being warm and safe began to feel his body and mind. It was if he were a baby, swaddled in a blanket, and being held to the breast of his mother. There was no safer place in the entire world...

But then Beren's song ended and all strength left him. He lost consciousness and slumped against the wall. Elbren's eyes opened then and a sense of urgency struck him.

"Come," Elbren said, grabbing Mirdain's arm, "this is far from over. We still have to make sure that Beren lives; but now it is Luthien who shall enter this dark place. We must find a spot and act as guardians of these moments in time."

Luthien had heard Beren's song and knew that he lived. She sang a song of greater power then; within the dungeons, scrambling to find a hiding place, Elbren and Mirdain both felt the island tremble in response.

Sauron had not been idle. He was aware of all that had transpired. He had even heard Finrod's dying words to Beren. And he knew this woman, this magnificent creature, who now stood upon the bridge in song, was the daughter of Thingol and Melian. He smiled evilly and his beautiful face glowed in the darkness; yes, Morgoth would reward him beyond all measure...perhaps even a Silmaril for himself....if he were to deliver this prize!

He ordered his wolves to attack her, but something was amiss. There were others with Luthien: a massive hound and...Sauron's eyes narrowed...more Elves. Acting as protectors of the daughter of Melian. No matter.

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

Celegorm and Curufin were desperate; they wanted Luthien and they wanted her alive. They needed her to enchant Morgoth into a sleep so that the Silmarils could be recovered. They knew that it could be done; for, in the past, Beren and Luthien had already done so. Why could not they, the sons of Feanor, noble lords and Knights of the Silmaril, not take what was rightfully theirs?

They knew that the Order now knew of their plot and had sent others to stop them. That had to be the case; for the two Elven females standing before them, guarding Luthien, wore the Mithril Cloaks of the Guild and neither Celegorm or Curufin knew who they were.

"We know who you are!" Celegorm bellowed, startling Luthien and causing Huan to take a step towards his former master. "This is not your affair. Go back to where you belong!"

Luthien drew herself up to her full height and glared at Celegorm, "I am here for a single purpose, sons of Feanor and Kinslayers! If you attempt to hinder me, I shall strike you down JUST as I will bring down the walls of this horrid place! I say for YOU to stand back!"

A wolf came galloping across the bridge at that moment, causing momentary confusion, but Huan slew it quickly. More wolves came and Huan slew each one, ripping their throats. But with each wolf, Celegorm and Curufin made their way closer to Luthien, hoping to take her away with them again while Huan wrestled with Sauron's werewolves.

Until Draugluin came. Dread beast, old in evil, and lord and sire of the werewolves of Angband. His coming was a cold wind and dark shadow upon the bridge.

Tempest felt the approach of Dragluin before she saw him. Her head ached and she realized suddenly that she had forgotten to breathe. She had been holding her breath as she watched the encounter between Luthien and Celegorm and Curufin, but only because she knew that He was coming. The approach of Dragluin signaled it to her more than before. Huan would slay him, and then Sauron would come.

The elves upon the bridge drew back at the werewolve's advance and the hearts of those who saw it quailed with fear. However, there was one alone among them who did not fear: Huan the Hound of Valinor. The isle shook with the fierceness of their battle, and the bridge was bathed in blood, its surface glistening in the moonlight. At times, the howls and savagery were too much for those who listened, and she saw Idril wince and raise her hand to drown out a little of the unbearable noise.

And then, with a piercing cry, Dragluin shook himself free from the mighty hound's grasp and fled, his sides and throat dripping dark pools in the moonlight. His flesh was torn and mangled and the werewolf slipped in his own blood as he found his way back to the halls of his master. The mighty hound had won; so far the tale had been true.

All this Tempest watched with a hollow dread, for she felt a doom dawning upon her as if she heard footsteps in the back her mind of what was to come. She knew not if Beren still lived, or if Elbren and Mirdain were slain. What she knew was that, in a few moments, she would behold her old Master upon that bridge. Though his figure may be altered, no veil could hide him from her eyes.

To see him face to face. She hoped that Huan would tear him to pieces and scatter his remains upon the wind. She hoped that Luthien would send his spirit back to Morgoth in shame.

Therefore he took upon himself the form of a werewolf, and made himself the mightiest that had yet walked the world; and he came forth to win the passage of the bridge.

From his hiding placed, Curufe gasped at the power held tightly within the fell beast, power he had never seen before. Even the balrogs he had faced were nothing compared to the might of the Wolf-Sauron, and the elf watched in horror as even Huan himself was daunted. Even the elf lords Curufin and Celegorm took a step back in horror at the approach of the fiend.

All were amazed and filled with dread at the approach of Wolf-Sauron. Celegorm and Curufin did not wish to attempt to kindnap Luthien and become entangled in the viscious battle about to take place. Deciding on an alternate course of action, they disappeared into the shadows of the fortress.

--------------------

Elbren and Mirdain had taken refuge in another small room that had been converted to a cell not too far from the cell where Beren and Finrod were. Both could sensing a great evil stirring and moving through the fortress.

"The master of the tower has left his seat. The battle of Huan and Wolf-Sauron will soon begin," whispered Elbren.

"So history is moving along as it should?"

"Someone may try to interfere with the battle, though I know not who would be so brave. Someone may also try to take Beren's life before Luthien and Huan are victorious. There are likely wolves or other monsters still left in this fortress."

"I wish we could help the others on the bridge. I am worried they could be caught up in the chaos."

"For now, our duty remains here. Now remain silent, I hear footsteps."

Mirdain hear the footsteps as well, coming closer on the stairs. In his condition he did not feel like taking on more wolves or orc guards. But then, the footfalls seemed much too agile and light to be orcs or wolves...

The footsteps drew closer until they were right outside the doorway of the room where Elbren and Mirdain hid. They hear someone say, "check in here first." The voice sounded elven. Mirdain and Elbren readied themselves for anything.

The door burst open, and swords flashed. Two figures figures rushed in to the room, and the low torchlight from the hallway revealed their faces. "Celegorm and Curufin," Elbren whispered with a somewhat dark tone to his voice.

"More of the Order? What is your business!?" Celegorm shouted.

"We would ask you the same thing," remarked Mirdain. "We are here to protect Beren."

"We are here to...rescue him as well. I trust you won't hinder us then."

Elbren shook his head and stood up, still holding the sword that they had taken from the first guard.

"Luthien will rescue Beren," Elbren said, eyeing the brothers warily, "we should not interfere unless we are left no other option."

"And I take it that you will force this edict upon us?" Celegorm asked.

"It is why we are here," Elbren stepped closer, "and I assume why YOU are here."

"I have told you; we are here to ensure that Beren escapes alive," Celegorm continued.

"Then you will be obliged to wait with us and force no action upon the scene until and if necessary," Elbren said again.

"I think not," Celegorm said and rushed at Elbren, his sword raised.

Curufin lashed out at Mirdain at the same time and the sound of blade upon blade filled the small cell. Elbren's weapon was greatly inferior to Celegorm's, but he was able to give ground and avoid taking any wounds. That is, until his sword broke and clattered upon the ground in pieces. Celegorm quickly put his blade at Elbren's throat.

"Do not make me slay a fellow Guild member," Celegorm said.

Mirdain and Curufin both halted their battle and turned towards Elbren and Celegorm. The darkness of the dungeon was almost complete and the howls of the battle upon the bridge were shrieking through the sky.

"If you intend to disrupt history, then that is exactly what you will have to do," Elbren replied, feeling the blade prick the skin upon his neck.

Celegorm lunged at Elbren, but moved his sword aside as he did so, purposely missing. Elbren turned and wrapped both arms around his opponent's midsection, trying to take him down to his knees, but Celegorm was strong.

"You will not kill me," Elbren said between clenched teeth, "and I would not have you as an Oathbreaker, Celegorm."

"It is my Oath that I intend to keep!"

The four Elves continued to grapple with one another until the walls around them began to shake. They were all thrown off balance as they struggled, but finally Elbren was able to disarm Celegorm and held him fast upon the stone floor. Taking the pommel of Celegorm's sword, Elbren smote him hard and watched the son of Feanor fall into unconsciousness.

Turning then to Mirdain and Curufin, Elbren waited for an opportunity and did the same to Curufin. Breathing heavily, Mirdain leaned against the cell wall.

"What now?" he asked.

"We hold them fast until Luthien and Beren leave," Elbren sighed, "and then...I am not sure. We cannot leave them to try again...and yet, we must follow to Morgoth's throne and ensure that their quest is completed."

"We can't take these two into Morgoth's lair! It would satisfy what they have intended to do all along!" Mirdain protested.

"Perhaps," Elbren replied, "but can we just turn them out and trust that they won't try again?"

"Probably not," Mirdain grumbled.

"We will leave soon; the other prisoners will be free shortly," Elbren listened for a moment, "then we will join the others."

"And leave these two here?"

"No, if nothing else, we will take them out and leave them somewhere safe."

"Safe?! You are jesting, right?" Mirdain was exasperated.

"Either that or keep them with us, and we will be returning to our own time ere we go to Morgoth's lair."

"Why?"

"Because Beren takes some time to heal after this, under Luthien's care. It is not safe for us to remain here while that happens," Elbren explained.

"And just how are we going to get into Morgoth's throne room?"

"We will have to find some way to enter...and then wait for Luthien's song to enchant the room into deep sleep," even as Elbren said it, he realised how ridiculous it sounded.

So great was the horror upon the bridge that even Huan leaped aside. Luthien swooned, but before she lost full consciousness, she cast a spell of sleeping upon Sauron with the folds of her dark cloak. Sauron stumbled; it was then that Huan sprang upon him.

The battle, legends tell us, was heard all throughout the Ered Wethrin, as the baying and howling froze all those hearts who could hear. Finally, though, Huan had Sauron in a death grip, and no matter which shape into which the dark Maiar transformed himself, he could not break free, unless he wished to forsake his flesh form.

That was when Luthien approached Sauron, and her words echoed throughout the valley, carried by the river, and hastened by the winds, "You shall be stripped of your raiment of flesh and your ghost sent quaking back to Morgoth; where, everlastingly thy naked self shall endure the torment of his scorn, pierced by his eyes, unless thou yield to me the mastery of the tower!"

Down, down...within the dungeons, Elbren and Mirdain were frozen as they kneeled over the unconscious bodies of Celegorm and Curufin. That was when Elbren first knew that something more subtle was at work.

"Why are you frowning?" Mirdain whispered.

The walls of the fortress began to tremble again as Luthien began to fully declare her power. Elbren wanted to cover his ears and hide; for the power emanating from the child of Thingol and Melian was just as frightening as it was enchanting.

"Something is wrong," Elbren replied with great effort, "look here," he pointed to the belt of Celegorm. "He has no knife."

"You took it, didn't you?" Mirdain asked.

"No," Elbren replied, "I took his sword."

The enormity of the missing knife struck them both like a hammer.

"Someone has already taken Angrist from Celegorm," Elbren said quietly. "But who and when?"

It was all she could do to stay still as Huan held Sauron by the throat and Luthien demanded that he surrender the tower to her. Everything seemed to be going as planned, and she noted that the sons of Feanor were nowhere to be seen. "Well," she thought to herself, "It would seem they have failed."

But even as she thought this, her eyes picked up a departing figure from the other side of the bridge whom she did not recognize. She strained her eyes but could not make out the face. The figure was holding something, something familiar to her and for a moment, she could not place it. Then, as the figure raised the object slowly, she knew it was an elven bow.

And it was aimed toward Luthien, where she stood over Sauron with her back toward the tower. Idril and the others did not see it, and before Tempest could say anything, an arrow was loosed from the bow. It did not strike the elven queen, but it found its mark on the thick hide of Huan. The hound did not release its prey, but it flinched slightly and Luthien lost her concentration for a moment.

Tempest could only guess what the figure's intention was. If Luthien was unable to free this tower, than Beren would die as well as all the captives within. The figure took a step nearer and said something that Tempest could not hear. Idril did not lower her weapon, but it was clear that she would not be able to deflect the arrows for long if the attacker chose to kill the Mithril Knights who stood there.

Tempest did the only thing she could do. She drew her sword and released the Veil. She would not be idle while her friends were slain by a traitor.

"It's difficult to say," commented a dejected Mirdain. "Wouldn't Celegorm know his blade is missing? Is it not precious to him?"

"Of course it is valuable to him. Remember, he did not forgive Beren for the taking of Angrist. I can only asssume the he would know it was missing. Hmmmm...yes. I have a theory. You weren't yet with us when last we visited the first Age, correct?"

"Yes," said Mirdain, now interested.

"Well, at that time, we stopped Turin Turambar from altering his own past."

"How could he do that?"

"Well, he was going to stop his past self from mvoing down the dark path that he eventually followed."

"His past self? Wait a minute!? That means..."

"Yes. Two Turins coexisted, so it seems entirely reasonable that there would another Celegorm and another Curufin running around in this time. The two we now stand over probably transported back here after losing the knife. They also would know exactly when and where the past pair are to lose it."

"Then our friends, and indeed many others, are still in grave danger! May the powers that be allow Luthien to crumble this place soon, that we may get out of here and be of more help."

Curufin began to stir, and a frustrated Mirdain kicked him in the gut to silence him.

Curufe watched in anguish as Tempest ran toward Parador and Idril with her sword in hand...the veil trailed frailly behind her before landing to the ground as a token of betrayal...a betrayal to Tempest's fear of ever seeing Sauron once again...

'If I go, I fear that I, too, may be tempted to change the past, for my life's sorrows are wrapped up in the rise of Sauron. If we should come across him in that Age, I could not tell you what I would do. The hatred I hold for him is greater than my loyalty to the Mithril Knights'...her words stung as she remembered speaking them to Elbren the night of their planning. But, how could Tempest just stand idly behind a veil and watch her friend and fellow knight's possible death?...she could not. It was a chance she would take, she had to trust herself and know that she would not allow her anger and revenge to endanger the Mithril Knights. It was a greater test of her 'will' she had to yet encounter with herself.

Idril turned upon seeing her friend emerge from the shadows and yelled for her to go back. But, it was to late. Lœthien turned her gaze to Tempest...at the same time the Elven bow aimed its mark again..this time at Tempest.

As Tempest stepped unto the bridge, she could feel the eyes of Luthien turn towards her. She had been no fool, but kept her cloak upon her head, shadowing her face. Still Luthien saw her and again lost her concentration on Sauron. Tempest said sharply, "Lady, I am no foe come to harm you. You must free this tower of his power. Whatever else may happen, you must complete that task."

She could not be certain that Sauron saw her, for he was held tightly in Huan's grasp and would only be able to see little from his current position. She did not turn her eyes towards him in fear of what she would do, but instead stepped boldly toward her fellow Knights as another arrow was readied to fire. Idril called for her to go back, but she would not, for the enemy was within her sight and she felt her blood boiling in anger.

The arrow sang as it was loosed from the bow, but this time, it found its mark in Tempest's shield. She rarely carried such an item unless she knew she would be in battle, but she had brought it with her this time and it did not fail her. "Idril, protect the elven queen. I will deal with this one," she ordered as she took another step towards the figure.

Another arrow hit her shield, and she could tell that the figure was panicing slightly. Still she could not see his face until she was within a few strides of him. She did not know him, and she could tell from the look on his face that he did not recognize her. "Who are you?" he hissed.

"I could ask you the same. Now, drop your weapons, for you will not pass this bridge while I still have breath!" He seemed familiar to her, though she knew she had never seen him. He looked like someone else.......

She saw the spark of anger in his eyes at her words, but his sword was in his hands before she even had time to blink. His blows came fast and hard, and she found herself straining to hold her shield and return any of them. Still, she held her ground, and he could see that the other Mithril Knights were watching nearby. He could not escape this way, and his eyes traveled to Luthien where she attempted to concentrate her efforts on Sauron. A cruel smile lit his face. He could wait, not all was lost yet. She would free the tower, and he would escape with the prisoners.

Taking one last look at the woman who fought him, he gave her a heavy blow that she staggered under, and then he turned and disappeared into the darkness of the tower. He needed to find Celegorm and Curufin anyway, and he hoped they had had better luck than he at finding Beren.

"Did you see his face?" Tempest called back to Idril, but the elven woman shook her head. Tempest cursed her luck and with a heavy heart, followed him into the darkness. If she could not find him, she could have to describe him to Elbren or one of the others. She was sure he was someone they would know, but she had never laid eyes on him before. He reminded her of someone she could not place her finger on.

When Idril saw that nothing she said would convince Tempest to go back, she followed her lead and went to the side of Luthien. She brought the sword up and said quickly "We are here to help you and Beren escape" and then she stood in a protective battle mode, waiting to see what would come of the words and battle that Tempest was involved in.

It was a heated battle for they were well matched. He seemed strong only because of his size. Tempest was able to parley each shot that was aimed towards her and she was able to throw a few blows of her own. It ended suddenly with words and his disappearance. Tempest asked if they had seen his face and when the answer was no, she took off at a run after him. Idril knew that she would not give up easily in the pursuit.

She and Parador stood there on either side of Luthien wondering what to do next but the Queen just stood there, as if in a trance. There was nothing that she could say that would have changed the outcome of the short battle but there was another voice heard. An evil one.

"NNNOoooooooooo!!" And then a silence. The bodies slumped together as in a final act that was finished, exhausted. The women stood there staring at the two bodies as if waiting for the life to come back to them. But the blood that flowed grew ever larger around them. Idril felt a stirring inside of her and the reminder of their mission and she turned and looked around for more enemies. But they were finally alone with nothing making any sound or movement. It was dead silence.

Aglanor walked through the forest. He didn't know where he was, so only one option was left. Trusting his instincts. He was not good at it, but it was the only way. He looked around. Where would he go to find the rest of the Mithril Knights? At West he stopped. Trying to remember the maps of Beleriand, he thought of the possibilities to encounter there. And what important event would be taking place?

He started walking while ideas were swirling in his mind. He looked at the sky. It was clouded and cold. Not a good foreboding. There's something going on.

After walking for half a day he saw in the distance the old city of Minas Tirith. And everything snapped into place. Of course!! The capture of Finrod and Beren, and the fight between Sauron and Huan, and later against Luthien!! That's what's going on! Knowing that, he started running. His armor felt heavy and sweat ran along his spine, but he didn't care. All he wanted was to get there in time.

It was dark inside, much darker than she had imagined. Tempest drew a sharp breath at the stale air and forced herself to enter. She didn't know her way around this place at all, and she knew there were enemy guards lurking around every corner.

Still, she must find the man she fought with. She listened and heard footsteps against the stone floors, yet if they belonged to him or not, she did not know. Where would he be going? she asked herself. Why had she not paid more attention when Elbren had reccounted the tale to her? Well, she knew that Beren lay somewhere within these walls, and she guessed the man would try to find him. So, it was to the dungeons she would go.

But that was a foolhardy venture and she was mostly likely to be killed in the attempt. No, she would wait, right here, and make sure he did not escape.

Then, a voice filled the darkness, unlike any voice she had ever known before or would ever hear again. Such sweetness, yet such power. It was a song and a command and it's affects left Tempest awestruck. It was as though a light had penetrated the darkness all around her, but not a light that one could see. It seemed to pierce the very walls and cleanse them of their evil, bathing them in a song of brightness and hope. The foundations shook and the whole tower seemed to cry out in a mixture of disbelief, fear, and rejoicing.

Something inside her broke down in response to the command. Deep within her own soul, the boundage she had held to Sauron was undone in answer to that voice. Though the memories still remained, she knew that he would never haunt her in the same way again. She was a captive set free. Luthien's song had freed her.

Her hands trembled as she leaned against the cold walls and closed her eyes. So, this is what it felt like....this was what it was like to...but her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of fleeing feet. She felt the passage of evil creatures fleeing the tower, some brushing by her and others wailing piteously in the distance. She did not know what was happening outside, but she knew that she must find Elbren and Mirdian and warn them of the enemy who still lingered within. She kept her sword drawn, for she did not know who waited in the shadows.

Still holding her sword in hand Parador continued to stand next to Luthien with Idril on the other side...Curufe stood in a trance as he continued to shield himself from sight, it was more than he could endure to hold back and simply watch as the tale unfolded before him.

Sauron yielded his hold of the tower to Luthien...Huan then released his grip of Sauron's throat...giving the evil lord the chance to take another form...that of a vampire. Parador and Idril immediately took a guarded stance to further strenghten the bond of protection they had formed around the Maiar Princess...Parador was taken in by the power Sauron held and of Luthien's as well...never had she witnessed such power wielded as she did this day...it was a power not even she dared to touch.

She saw Tempest flee, chasing the mysterious and deadly assailant to the tower...while Sauron quickly took to flight leaving only his blood upon the tree tops as a witness of his presence ever being there. Haun stood waiting patiently as he internalized the pain of his wound to his back hind leg.

Luthien took her place on the bridge and declared her power...the tower's stones began to separate one by one giving way for the massive gate to fall to the ground thus opening the walls up, bearing the pit from within. To both Parador and Idril's surprise they witnessed the releasing of long years of Sauron's captives running from the toppling tower. Long had they wasted in the dungeons that even the light of the moon proved to be painful to bear. They all covered their eyes has they fled wrecklessly away from the living tomb.

As the falling debris came to a halt and the dust began to clear...all came forward except Beren, Elbren and Mirdain...Luthien took to the path leading to the tower with Haun and the Mithril Knights guarding cautiously behind her.

Inside the tower in the empty tomb Elbren and Mirdain had shielded Beren and each other from the relentless debris falling all around them...the body of Felagund lay before them while Beren kneeled at his King's side taking no notice of what had just taken place...Curufin and Celegorm lay Unconscientious still, moving and moaning only when hit by a falling stone.

Curufe, seeing all who had vanished, stepped forward from his place of hiding, escaping from the shadow's that held him...he looked around carefully before proceeding to the tower.

Aglanor was making good time running on his tireless course, bringing him closer to his final destination...it was not too much further and soon he would be amongst his comrades to aid in the closing of the Tapestry that was unraveling faster than Elbren had expected...Time was catching up...and 'time' is what they needed, to find the one who dare to change what was already made past...

Curufe ran up to one of the released prisoners who looked at him in surprise. "Lord Curufe!" the elf exclaimed. "What are you doing here? Did you free us from Sauron?" Curufe shook his head. "Nay, it was Luthien who rescued you. I am here on an errand for the Knights." The elf nodded. He, too, was a member of the Mithril Knights and of the House of Feanor. "I need you to do something when you return to Nargothrond," Curufe told the elf. "Celegorm and Curufin have been taken over by their dark oath, and have lost all honor. They are no longer our lords! I will take over the leadership of the Feanorhim in Nargothrond, and the council seat of Celegorm. We will serve Orodreth faithfully, as we should have served Finrod. I am sure Orodreth will send the brothers into exile from Nargothrond for their deeds. Let any who wish go with them, though I doubt many will. The curse of Mandos is heavy on those two!" The elf bowed before Curufe and said, "It will be done as you say, my lord," before he took off, heading south for Nargothrond.

Elbren stood near Beren and watched the man weep silently while holding the broken body of Finrod Felagund. The tower had fallen amidst Luthien's song and left only ruins and dust.

But, Beren had survived. THAT was why they had come.

A presence then entered into the cell that took Elbren's breath away and made him turn in awe. Luthien Tinuviel. Her beauty was indeed beyond compare, but, she had only eyes and concern for the man that she loved. She brushed by the Mithril Knights with little more than a glance as she wrapped her arms around Beren and held him close.

Elbren stepped away and walked to Celegorm and Curufin. Mirdain followed him and together they hauled the two brothers to their feet.

"What do we do with them?" Mirdain asked.

"Find out as much as we can about them," Elbren replied.

"So, we can now leave?"

"We will leave Beren and Luthien to their fate, for now, and return to our own time. But, we will have to come back again when they make ready to enter Morgoth's throne."

"I am now mistress of this place," Luthien stood and held them fast with her gaze, "and ere you depart for wherever it is that you came, you owe me an explanation."

Elbren hardly knew what to reply, "Lady...I cannot--"

"It is because of them that Finrod lies dead," Beren's voice was cold and distant.

Luthien frowned and took step closer to Elbren and Mirdain, "Is this true? You wear the cloak of a Mithril Knight. This Order is known to me and my people. You aided in Finrod's death?"

"No..." Elbren could not find the right words, "Lady, if I could have saved the noble Finrod, I would have done so even at the cost of my own life. We were sent here to ensure that you and Beren survived this place. We are bound by Oath to interfere with nothing else. Not life or death."

Luthien considered this and then finally nodded, "You speak the truth; this I know. And, you can tell me no more than that?"

"I can tell you that you are still in great danger," Elbren gestured to Celegorm and Curufin, "I must still take them away from you. I am not even sure where yet."

She had hardly finished speaking before a dark figure came rushing into the cell, brandishing a sword, and leapt up and over Elbren and Mirdain. It was over before anyone could react. The dark figure grappled with Mirdain while Elbren moved into a protective stance before Beren and Luthien. Finally, Mirdain's blade bit deeply into the intruder's chest and he slumped onto the ground.

Mirdain quickly knelt beside him and pulled the hood of his cloak back.

"Oh..." Mirdain whispered and jumped back in shock.

"What?!" Elbren asked.

They all jumped again when Tempest entered the room in obvious pursuit of the dead Knight.

"You won't believe..." Mirdain said and his face was pale as snow.

Elbren stepped past Tempest, but as soon as he saw the face upon the slain Elf, for it was indeed an Elf, his heart stopped cold.

Tempest reached out and steaded both herself and Elbren with her hand upon his arm.

"That's..." Tempest looked from the dead Elf back to Elbren's horror stricken face, "that's you."

Elbren had no words to speak. Indeed, lying upon the dirty cell floor, blood flowing from the wound and with lifeless eyes, was Elbren.

"No...no..no.." Mirdain must have repeated it ten times at least, though he had lost count. "This isn't possible, it's, it's some trick of Sauron. Not...possible..." Mirdain looked around pleadingly, for some reassurance. Tempest avoided his gaze. Elbren stared absently, maybe at the fallen Elbren, maybe at nothing; Mirdain could not tell. Beren's rage at them was only slightly lessened now. Luthien had a look of sympathy for them, but her attention was turned to Beren and the body of Finrod. With as great a cry as he had ever cried, Mirdain buried the knife with Elbren's blood in the stone walls, all the way to the hilt. It was then that Idril arrived, and did not know if she could approach him.

Tempest went through a wide range of emotions as she stared at the lifeless body of Elbren and then turned her gaze back to the living example who stood, looking stricken next to the wall. Mirdain was in shock and could be of no use to her, and she knew the others were coming soon. She heard Luthien murmuring softly in Beren's ear, and all she wanted to do was escape this place.

Why had she agreed to come? What was it that she had warned Elbren about when they had discussed this plan before entering the tapestry? Her greatest temptation had been to confront Sauron and she had conquered that challenge. It seemed that Elbren had failed in his.

Her face was solemn as Idril and the others entered the room. She ordered them to pick up Celegorm and Curufin, and then she placed a heavy hand on Elbren's shoulder. "You must come with us now, Elbren. We must go back through the tapestry and enter the Guild house. We will talk of this later, for I know you are as dismayed as we."

Elbren was in absolute shock. Stunned. Motionless. The memory of the voice in his head...the one that had haunted him back in Lothlorien came roaring back. The voice had taunted him to take a Silmaril. It had found the dark places of his mind and awakened a gnawing hunger to possess the most beautiful creation of Feanor.

But, Elbren had resisted the temptation. Or, so he had thought.

"Wait," he croaked as Tempest tried to lead him away from the grisly scene.

Kneeling beside his own dead body, he quickly searched and found what he sought. Holding up the knife, he offered it with a shaking hand to Tempest.

"Angrist?" Tempest asked, still shaken.

Elbren could only nod, "Keep it safe."

His heart beating hard in his chest, and sweat gliding along his body, Aglanor came at last before the stronghold of Sauron on Eithel Sirion. It was silent, but for the wind sweeping through the many cracks and along the branches. This meant the battle was over. He firmly hoped it would be for the good, and nothing had gone wrong. But something always went wrong.

Unsheathing Chaos, Aglanor slowly walked inside, breathing as silently as possible, taking every step carefully. At last he heard voices. They were familiar. With a sigh of relief, Aglanor came towards his comrades, and saw everyone there, accompanied by Luthien and Beren. And the body of Finrod Felagund. "I have returned, Guild master and fellow members. I see you've been able to protect both Beren and Luthien."

Then he saw the figure lying on the ground. Not judging it highly, he turned, before noticing who it was. He went silent and looked at the body and then at Elbren. "How can this be?", he asked.

Curufe remained in the shadows outside, not wanting to interfere with history by being spotted by Luthien or Beren. Nargothrond would be different when he went back, Curufe thought. He had not really wanted to take Celegorm's place, but the only other alternative was to see this branch of the House of Feanor absorbed by the other houses in Nargothrond, and he definitely did not want that. For all the crimes that his house, and he, had committed, Curufe still felt strong ties of loyalty to his house, and would not abandon it, even if he were the last of the House of Feanor in Middle-Earth.

Idril had come into the fallen tower to not only find Finrod lay dead but that Mirdain was stricken in a weird way and had buried a knife to its hilt in the stone wall next to her. He seemed angry more than grief stricken and when their eyes met he cried even harder and looked away, falling to his knees staring at his blood caked hands while he dug them into the dirt of the floor. She thought she should try to comfort him but he quickly turned his back on her. She wondered what had happened here.

She turned back to the scene in the main room. Finrod was dead and Beren and Luthien were grieving his death. She walked to his feet while sheathing her sword at her back to pay a quick tribute to the fallen Finrod. After a quick moment of silence, Idril mentioned to the Lady that they must get them out of there soon. She again turned to witness the scene of the room.

The tower walls were still falling where mortar and brick were weakened and there was still some danger here. She took in the scene with Elbren as he stood staring at his other self, who was dead. It was like a dream standing there. The blood seemed to be every where. Then it hit her whom had done the killing; Mirdain! Her heart went out to him but for now she would get them moving along with Tempest, whose face was solemn. The eyes of the two women met as Tempest ordered them to pick up Celegorm and Curufin, and then she placed a heavy hand on Elbren's shoulder. "You must come with us now, Elbren. We must go back through the tapestry and enter the Guild house. We will talk of this later, for I know you are as dismayed as we." Idril stood on Elbren's other side facing him, nodding her head as Tempest spoke.

Aglanor then burst into the scene and spoke. "I have returned, Guild master and fellow members. I see you've been able to protect both Beren and Luthien." Then he saw the figure lying on the ground. Not judging it highly, he turned, before noticing who it was. He went silent and looked at the body and then at Elbren. "How can this be?", he asked. Idril responded with, "We do not know and do not have the time here to find out. We will have to journey back and try to find or figure out the answers along the way. Come we must get moving. Will you help with Celegorm and Curufin? I would like to help Mirdain. Parador come with me please." Idril turned to find Mirdain as she had last seen him, on his knees with his hands buried deep in the dirt. Parador followed behind.

Idril walked up behind Mirdain and knelt. She wanted to say something but knew that the time was not right to do so. Nothing she could say would soothe his anger or pain. She reached out and touched him speaking in Sindarin quietly. She was chanting something to help ease his pain in both the heart and mind and hopefully would get him back to the Guild House with the rest of them. She would not let her mind dwell on the act that had caused such pain for she knew he needed her strength now not her tears or grief at such actions.

Mirdain flinched when she first touched him but being at the base of a wall did not allow for much movement away from her. Once the chant started to soothe him some, he relaxed but still would not face her. This is where Parador came in as Idril signaled her to come around and speak to him about moving on. They had to get out of this place now! Mirdain heard the words and acknowledged the fact that they needed to get moving soon while a thought of fleeing formed in his mind. Idril was still trying to soothe him so 'read' this thought as it formed. He stood slowly, leaning on the wall and tried to not look at the knife in the wall but failed. He again screamed out and started to dart off towards the doorway and Idril seeing his course, quickly stepped in front of him. He tried to push his way past her and Parador but could not. Idril slapped him.

"MIRDAIN come to your senses! We MUST ALL get out of here together. We need you with us. There will be time for grief later but we need to refocus, regroup and move on. We are still not out of danger. I need you to help get Elbren out of here for he is stricken also, even more than yourself. Melamin Please?!" Mirdain had at the slap looked at her with such sorrow that Idril could feel it in her own heart. It was of course, the realization of the deed he had done; killing the Elbren of this time. There would be a long road of healing ahead of them all but for now it was time to leave. With everyone ready, they moved towards the doorway with the two 'prisoners' at the front with Aglanor and Tempest followed by Beren and Luthien, Mirdain, Parador and Elbren with Idril bringing up the rear. As they moved, tears fell from the eyes of Idril.

~~~~~~

Curufe remained in the shadows outside until Idril was passed him where he alerted her to his following movements.

"Idril!" Curufe hissed. "What is happening? Elbren and Mirdain look dazed, to say the least." Idril told Curufe what had happened in the tower, and the elf lord shook his head. "Strange happenings indeed. You will return to your own time for a while?"

Mirdain stared at the ground in silence. No words of comfort could touch him for the time being. The dirt only partially covered the blood on his hands; he was not free of the stain. He wished he had a veil like Idri's, the he might hide himself away from everyone. After a time, he noticed Beren looking him. Mirdain returned Beren's stare with a look so full of pain and darkness that Beren himself seemed to shudder and turn away. Mirdain drew his newly-recovered sword, fingered it absently. He knew not why, but he was ready to use it for anything...maybe even to finish himself.

Idril's words did touch him. She always did understand me, he thought to himself. Mirdain could not tell if the greater pain was having killed his good friend and leader, or not being able to face Idril.

There were dangerous beasts still about, the remnants of Sauron's domain. Mirdain's began to dart back and forth, looking for something. Then, some distance off, he spied a lone wolf making for any shadows it could find in the day, in its attempt to escape the destroyed fortress. Rage built inside Mirdain, and he darted off from the line. A few others gave chase.

Though the wolf was wary and fearful, Mirdain's anger was the greater, and it leant him strength and speed. Within minutes he cought the beast. He severed its leg with his sword, then savagely destroyed it the rest of the way with his bare hands. Minutes later, Idril ran up behind, the first to arrive. Mirdain had somewhat of a distant look on his face, ignorant of the blood now streaked up to his elbows. Idril immediately slapped him again. You are lucky there are enough of us to hold the prisoners AND chase after you. I don't know why I bother. You know, other people have pain too! Please, pull yourself together, for me if for nothing else.

Mirdain's look was now one of intense sadness, and he wept onto Idril's shoulder as she led him away.

Elbren waited for Idril to return with Mirdain and then the Knights gathered on the river's shore, south of the ruined fortress. Beren and Luthien were still with them, but the time had come for them to depart.

"I do not know the truth of all that has happened here," Luthien told them, studying each one with her keen gaze, "but I thank you for your protection. May Eru watch over you all. Namarie."

They left them then in silence though they were watched by all until they faded from sight.

"I should follow them," Curufe said.

"Yes," Elbren finally found his voice, "perhaps you should. We will return soon...but for now, we must depart as well."

"Are we taking them with us?" Tempest asked, nodding towards the now-bound and gagged Celegorm and Curufin.

"Do we have a choice?" Elbren snapped back and instantly regretted his tone. "I'm sorry....yes, I think we should."

Tempest said nothing, though Elbren could see that she had more to say on the matter. He then took the vials of dark liquid from his waist pouch and handed one to each of the Knights. Lastly, he placed one into Mirdain's hands. Shakily, Mirdain took it but could not meet Elbren's gaze.

"Mellon," Elbren said in a whisper, "we will find out what has happened...and why, if we can. For now, take comfort that I am here and alive."

Looking around, Elbren saw that the Knights all had their vials in hand and ready to drink. "Let us return to Lothlorien and try and solve the riddles that have been placed before us."

One by one, the Knights drank the bitter juice and began their journey back to the Guild House in the Golden Wood. Elbren waited for them all to fade from sight until it was only he, Tempest, and Idril.

"You ARE coming, aren't you?" Tempest asked, eyebrow raised in question.

"I am not sure, to be honest, what will happen when I enter the vision," Elbren confessed with a shaky voice, "I fear that I may not be there when you awaken."

Tempest took in a sharp breath as Idril shook her head. "How can we know?"

"We can't," Elbren licked his lips, "this has never happened before. I don't know WHAT will happen when I begin to return."

"But you are already there waiting....yes?" Tempest took a step closer to Elbren.

"Am I?" Elbren laughed bitterly, "I'm not sure of anything anymore."

"There's only one way to find out," Idril sounded none too sure as she said it.

"Do you not understand what has happened?" Elbren held out his hands, "at some point in the future...tomorrow? in two days?..who knows....I....I tried to prevent the success of this mission. I had the knife in my hand....where did I get that? What did I plan to do with it?"

"We can't know all of that--" Tempest began.

"No...but we do know this. I WILL break my Oath and vows as a Mithril Knight..."

"Can we not prevent that from happening?" Idril asked.

"And we DONT know that's what was happening, do we?" Tempest scowled.

Elbren pursed his lips in frustration as he stared down at the vial in his hand, "No."

"Then you must take a chance and return," Tempest's voice was firm.

Elbren took a deep breath as he brought the vial to his lips and drank deeply...

 

Of Beren and Luthien, Part 2