"I need to know the answers to some questions," Elbren began, "and I call upon your Oath as a Mithril Knight to answer them truthfully."

Celegorm's eyes narrowed, "I am NOT a Mithril Knight! I was stripped of that rank by the noble Finrod just as be banished me and my brother from Nargothrond. The only title that I will claim...one that might mean something to you...if you are TRULY a member of this Guild...would be the title of Knight of the Silmarils. To THAT, I will answer truthfully."

Elbren folded his arms across his chest in silence. He glanced at Parador, over at the two Mithril Knight guards standing nearby, then back at Celegorm.

"Do you miss Nargothrond?" Elbren asked quietly.

Celegorm looked warily at Elbren, "What does it matter to you?"

"What year is it?" Elbren continued.

"What sort of question is that?" the son of Feanor countered.

"Why were you at Tol-in-Gaurhoth?"

"Are you asking me upon my oath as a Knight of the Silmarils?" Celegorm laughed.

"I am indeed," Elbren replied, "will you answer as one?"

Celegorm growled, "Upon my oath, I was at Tol-in-Gaurhoth to protect Luthien."

"Were you? And you left Finrod, your cousin, to die there. Knowing that he languished in Sauron's dungeons," Elbren leaned closer to Celegorm, "isn't that true as well?"

"You know, don't you, that there will be many who will return to Nargothrond from the dungeons of Tol-in-Gaurhoth and refute all of the lies that you and your brother have told there," Elbren continued, "you have no home to return to, Celegorm. You are known as the Betrayers. You have no power and no kingdom. You have nothing."

Celegorm's face contorted into fury as his fists clenched, but he did not speak or cry out, he let the anger pass and looked away from Elbren's gaze.

"So, I ask you again, why were you two at Tol-in-Gaurhoth? Was it to ensure that Finrod perished? Or were you going to abduct Luthien again and try to woo her to your marriage bed?"

"NO!" Celegorm shouted, "if you MUST know the truth! We were out hunting when we saw a Mithril Knight upon the trail. Rather than turning his back on us, as you are all wont to do since Finrod banished us, he befriended us and asked to camp with us. He swore that he had news that would interest us."

Elbren looked over at Parador and the two exchanged a nod.

"And what did he tell you?" Elbren asked.

"What was his name?" Parador added, unable to stand silent any longer.

"He said he was called Elbren and that he was a high ranking Guild member from Gondolin. He told us that Luthien had gone to Tol-in-Gaurhoth to try and rescue Beren. He said that Luthien and Beren were going to try and retrieve a Silmaril from Morgoth Himself. He told us that if we followed them, we could wait for them outside of Angband and take the Silmaril once they had reached safe ground. We would never even have to enter the throne room ourselves. He said that Beren did not deserve one of the Eldar, especially Luthien, daughter of Thingol and Melian."

Elbren drew in a quick breath as Celegorm spoke the last words. "His name was not Elbren," he said, "for I am Elbren and I am Guildmaster in the 4th Age of our Guild. Early in the 2nd Age, Celegorm, our Guild was given the Mystery of the Way. It was gifted to us by Orome Himself and it enables us to spiritwalk into the past and future. The scroll was long known about during the First Age, it was kept in the Guild House in Nargothrond. Only a few of the Order actually read the scroll...and we don't know who might have put it into practice. We take Oaths now, as Mithril Knights, to never change the past or try and alter the future. But, there are those who do try; though none have succeeded in altering the flow. The man who camped with you--"

"He was not a Man; he was of our folk, the Eldar, though he was not of the Noldor," Celegorm interrupted.

"Yes, an Elf, with silver hair but tall for a Noldo, yes?" Parador asked.

"Yes," Celegorm nodded, "what are you trying to say?"

"He told you to follow Beren and Luthien and then take the Silmaril from them after they had cut it from Morgoth's crown?" Elbren asked.

"Yes," Celegorm replied.

Elbren gestured for Parador to follow him out on to the porch of the flet, "These two are from the First Age. There very well could still be a Celegorm and Curufin still following Beren and Luthien, however, and perhaps even more involved in this plot to recover a Silmaril. There are those, you know, who DO still adhere to the old Oaths and the Knights of the Silmaril."

"But there are no Knights of the Silmaril anymore," Parador argured, "I've read some of the archives. Glorfindel and Turgon made sure that, after the fall of Menegroth, no one clung to those old Oaths."

"The lure of a Silmaril is a mightly desire for some, Parador, do not think that even I have never wondered about beholding one with my own eye," Elbren smiled, "and certainly, we have at least one Mithril Knight who still follows the old Oaths."

"Right, but he's dead," Parador pointed out. "And if they're speaking the truth, then there is no Angrist for Beren to take from Curufin...for that matter, there's no Celegorm or Curufin for Beren and Luthien to meet when that time comes."

"Good point," Elbren nodded, "then let's get with the others and prepare to return. Even Celegorm and Curufin."

Idril had immediately gone and found the roster for the Guild House and she also went to get the previous one, just to cover her bases. She didn't want to leave any stone unturned. She then went to the conference room where she knew they would all gather. She then placed the books in a safe and locked then, pocketing the key. She quickly went to the kitchens, told the staff there of the ensuing meeting and to ready beverages. She also asked for a pot of tea to be brought to her in the conference room immediately. She needed to get back there for she wanted to give the books a good looking through first to see if there was a name there she did not know. As she went, she took notice of the same servant that her and Mirdain had met upstairs. She smiled and he returned the smile and said that the clean linen's & water were upstairs outside the room awaiting Lord Mirdain's return. She thanked him and alerted him to the meeting in 2 hours.

As she came close to the conference room, she noticed that the door was a jar and she was sure that she had closed it. She took notice of it and tried to decide if she should enter or not, and if so, if she should take a defensive stance upon entry. She didn't have time to decide for someone came out of the room and very quietly shut the door. Suspicious she walked on and made noise as she moved.

"Excuse me sir. I am alerting all that I come upon know that we are having a house meeting in 2 hours here in this conference room. May I ask if you were just delivering my tea?"

'M'Lady. I am not of the kitchen staff so no I did not know of the tea you ordered. I shall be sure to pass along the notice of the meeting though if you like?'

"Yes ... please do. May I ask then why were you in this particular room?"

She noticed a smell of fear upon the man and she took close notice of his mannerisms and his clothing. High rank robes yet carrying himself as if a servant, not making eye contact and called me M'lady not by my name. Sweat was now coming from his brow and he shifted his feet nervously. She wanted a look at his face and the clothes he was wearing. Hmmm how to do this without creating more suspicion on his part.

'I am supposed to keep ... all the doors shut and locked ... to rooms not in use.'

"Oh so YOUR the keys keeper. I am glad to make your acquaintance. I am Lady Idril, hostess of this house. Your name sir is?" She interjected just enough honest interest into her voice to set this man at ease and to make him relax she reached out her hand for the customary shake. It looked like this was going to work. She had bluffed herself along with the title trying to make him sound important enough to lower his guard for she really suspected him of foul play, maybe worse.

'I am Tomas M'Lady' old habits die hard she noticed! He reached out to take her hand, but did not seem to know the hand shake of a Knight so she let him 'lead her' through his own. And there, Tomas let his garment be seen, something she was sure that was Elbren's. But he would not quite look at her eyes. 'I am glad to make your acquiantance. I should be getting back ... to the doors and then need to be back here for the meeting.'

"Yes Tomas that is a good idea but would you do me two favors? I would like you to take a look at something in the conference room and then could you check on my tea for me?"

'Well if you insist.' He said with a bit too much irritation. She reached to open the door, which was unlocked!, and she walked in as if this was not unusual. After all, he would have noticed that someone had just been in there, besides himself. Now for an excuse to get him to look up in this light so that she could see his face better. An excuse came to mind, one with merit. "It is over here above the table. The lamps here above the table seem to need oil. Do you see? Are they not lower than the others? We will need them filled before the meeting. Could you see to that please and my tea?"

It had worked, he fell for it and it was all she could do to not gasp or show any reaction at all. He looked enough like Elbren to have portrayed him and was wearing a robe under the cloak that he had had to remove and handed her, looked like possibly an old frock of Elbren's. (She had carefully checked to see if there were keys in any pockets or anywhere. She also looked to see if he had keys hanging from his belt and saw none nor did she see or hear any on him as he climbed to check the lamps.) And at his neck was tied a small vile of something. Could it be? She would share this with Elbren quickly but to keep up this farce would take all of her deceitful tactics in hopes that this Tomas would not see through her and run later.

'Yes M'Lady, I see that the oil is low but I do have other duties to attend to.'

"Yes I know but on your way to the kitchens you could alert the servant boy that I just spoke with, who I believe said he was going to the kitchens as well. He can come and tend to the lamps for me and then you are off to take care of the doors. You can deliver both messages to the same place and off you go. It would be such a help as I have such a short time to ready this room for the meeting."

'Ok, ok I will do it but I had best get going. I do have alot of things to do myself.'

"Yes and thank you for your help." She handed back his cloak and smiled at him a smile of innocence and looked back up towards the lamps for she was sure there was a knowing look and an accusation in her eyes she would not be able to hide. And off he went, quietly she noticed, and he shut the door behind him as he took his leave of her. Now for her to talk to Elbren of this person. She quickly unlocked the place that she had hidden the books and grabbed them, relocking their hiding place again and placing the key once again where she kept it hidden upon her body. She was uncertain whether she should wait or go to find Elbren. Her tea arrived quickly and she asked to not be disturbed. She took a drink of the tea and sat calmly reading through the most recent of the logs as she decided what to do.

As Aglanor and Mirdain prepared the journey to return, Aglanor was recalling all that had been spoken off to find a link. But there were pieces missing. Pieces that may be refound, after Celegorm and Curufin had been questioned. And Aglanor had missed the beginning so that was missing as well.

"Mirdain, could I ask you something?"

Mirdain stopped his work, and looked at him. "Of course you may."

"Could you tell me what happened before I came to Tol Sirion?"

As Mirdain started his story, Aglanor listened carefully. In his mind, he linked it with his knowledge and found that things had gone different than he had thought at first.

"...and from that point you know what happened."

"Ok, thanks. I hope our prisoners will cough up the necessary information so we know what actions to take next."

"Indeed. Elbren would not use physical force to make them talk, especially they are of our Order. He is an imposing figure though, and I have no doubt he will find some way to make them talk."

Mirdain and Aglanor were busy looking through the inventories of armor, clothing, and weaponry at the Lothlorien Guild House. Mirdain made his best guess at the appropriate sizes of the other nights when picking out equipment, while Aglanor crossed things that they took off a list.

At one point, Aglanor looked at him with a slightly disturbed expression on his face. "It says we have a belt of Numenorean mithril daggers here, though I have not seen it through all our searching. If we indeed have been betrayed, this possible theft troubles me deeply."

Mirdain's brow furrowed as well. "You are right to feel that way. We very well may have a thief in our midst, though the missing item could also be the result of a misunderstanding or a misplacement. Still, we should keep sharp eyes for anyone exhibiting suspicious behavior."

All of the Mithril Knights currently in or near Lothlorien were gathered within the Grand Hall of the Caras Galadhon Guild House. Elbren stood within the center of the gathering and waited for the conversation to abate. Then, he spoke:

"There will be another Mithril Knight company formed that will travel the Mural and return to 1st Age Beleriand to assist with the further protection of Beren and Luthien. Those who will accompany me, please see me when this meeting is adjourned. In the meantime, most of you have heard, either by rumour or fact, about the incidents from our last journey. It is true that one of our Order has broken his Oath and attempted to alter events in the past. It is true that this fallen Knight was slain in his attempt to waylay our mission. It is also true that we brought the sons of Feanor, Celegorm and Curufin, back with us in order to determine if they were the masterminds behind this attempt to alter the past and recover a Silmaril to their own ends."

Elbren paused and allowed the words to grow in energy, "It is my belief that Celegorm and Curufin are not a part of the plan to recover a Silmaril. It is my belief that the now slain and fallen Mithril Knight was a part of a conspiracy, most likely from our own Age and our own ranks. One of them is dead. Are there others? Who are they? How do we find them? Those are the questions yet to be answered. However, in the meantime, we have to take into account that whomever is involved in this conspiracy may well still be in the 1st Age and still plotting to steal a Silmaril. However, they do have one problem."

At this, Elbren held his hand out to Tempest, who reached to he rbelt and drew forth a dagger; she then placed the dagger Angrist into his open palm. Elbren held the dagger aloft for all to see.

"The problem is that no one, not even Beren or Luthien, is going to cut a Silmaril from Morgoth's crown without this. We had thought that perhaps there were two Angrists due to the separation of time and events of passage through the Mural, but that is no longer my belief. This IS Angrist. It must be returned to Curufin in order that Beren, in turn, take it from him and retrieve the Silmaril as history dictates that he must. We know, from Celegorm, that at least one member of the conspiracy had the plan to take the Silmaril from Beren AFTER he and Luthien leave the Throne Room. In other words, let Beren and Luthien do the dangerous work and then simply attack, and perhaps, slay them once they are free of Angband. We are left with no choice save to act as Beren and Luthien's protectors and follow them into Morgoth's throne room and then escort them to Menegroth as well. THAT is our course. Now, who will come with me? For we leave this very night."

Mirdain, now seated at the Council Table, immediately stood. Let there be no doubt about my intentions or stability on this mission! I intend to see this thing through to its full end. If for no other reason, then to make up for any wrongs I may have committed. I will not fail in my oath as a Mitrhil Knight! I certainly will go with you.

Mirdain set his cherished bow down on the table, then clasped hands with Elbren. Both of them smiled at Mirdain's returning strength. Mirdain turned to the whole Council.

For those of you who did not know, or were only guessing, it was indeed I that killed Elbren, or perhaps I should say, the Elbren look-alike. I ask for your coninued support in dealing with this issue. Some of you have already been more than gracious, more than I deserved... I do not know what course I may yet take, or how this incident may affect me. Yet know that I will aid you in whatever way I can, as you have aided me.

Elbren put his hand and Mirdain's shoulder. Friend, you should know that you have no need to ask us for our support, nor any reason to think that we would doubt you. Of course you will be welcome.

The other knights present voiced their agreement, and Mirdain nodded gratefully.There are a couple more things I should let you all know. Aglanor and I have placed your armour and weaponry outside your various chambers. You should find them there. Also, a belt of mithril knives is missing from our inventories, though I cannot guess if it was stolen or not.

Idril stood and bowed her head, drawing the long sword that she had found before, standing with it in front of her, offering its hilt to Elbren.

"I shall also go, if you will have me Lord Elbren. There is still much of a mystery here and I would like to help solve it. Plus you may need my sword, The Veil or my healing abilities in this next voyage. If you do not see the need for my talents, I will stay behind upon your say." As she again bowed her head.

'Lady Idril of course you may join us, as I was hoping you would for your talents are great and might be needed on this journey. I thank you for offering yourself and your sword to this cause. I welcome you.'

With that they grasped arms in the customary hand shake of the Mithril Knights. But Idril felt that she should speak of her previous knowledge of her meeting with the mysterious keeper of the keys later with Elbren. She did not want to make this one jumpy in case her suspicions were correct and she was sure that would happen if she spoke now if front of all the Knights. She did look deeply into Elbren's eyes trying to tell him that she had more information to share later, alone. He seemed to understand her and with a look and slight movement of the head, he let her know he understood.

"Is there anyone else who will accompany us?" The 3 stood together waiting for more to respond.

Looking to the Mithril Knights', Parador could feel the Camaraderie deeply within her of all who stood before Elbren. There was not one Knight who would not give of their life for their Lord or for the Order. With these valiant legion of warriors, Morgoth and his minions had only to hope for mercy on their miserable souls...

'My Lord'...spoke the newest of the Mithril Knights...'Something tells me that I should stay behind and guard the way. I feel strongly in this. I was hoping to assist you and journey back with the other Knights to Morgoth's throne room'...as she spoke her mind transfixed on the encounter they all had with Luthien and Beren...she had hoped to meet them again. The power Luthien commanded, responded obediently to her...and Beren, the strength of determination...the success of his quest to take the Silmaril from Morgoth's crown burned within him. And the love...Parador knew of no other love that could compare with the hearts of Luthien and Beren...and then there was the body of Finrod Felagund laying crumpled up in Beren's lap as the mighty warrior held him close to his bosom. The scene would be forever etched in her mind in a special place of times long past.

Quickly Parador recomposed herself...she was grateful that Idril and Mirdain would be accompaning Elbren...'For whatever reason it maybe, I trust your instincts as a Mithril Knight', spoke Elbren. 'The more I think on it the more I like the idea of you staying behind Parador. We may be in need of your assistance in the Fourth age instead of the First. It would not surprise me to know that we may have another enemy right in our very midst trying to unravel the tapestry from this end of it'...Idril's eyes looked to Elbren's with a sense of urgency.

'Then let it stand Lord Elbren...I will stay' Parador kneeling to one knee took to her sword bringing it forefront, brandishing its reflective metal to her forhead and bowing to the wise Guild Master...already her mind was upon the encounter she had with the so called House servant. There was more to meet the eye of this devilish Elf.

Tempest remained quiet while Elbren looked to her for a response. What more surprises lay in the shadows of Morgoth's throne room? She felt a need to be there and yet, could she once again trust herself to withstand the tempation's that possibly awaited her...to alter time with the swiftness of judgement that Morgoth deserved. She continued the glazen stare into Elbren's eyes running past all that was sane to her...and Angrist, the one blade that could only do the job of removing the Silmaril from Morgoth's crown, still laid in Elbren's hand bearing witness to all the urgency of the task awaiting them. Before Tempest could speak, Aglanor stepped forward.

Idril was quite surprised that Parador had offered to stay behind as that same thought had crossed her mind also. The fact that she believed that there was a traitor among them was strong and that she felt that she should protect the other's journey, being that she was the Lady of this Guild House. But her duty to go was stronger, knowing what her 'Veil' could offer much under such circumstances. She was worried though about this 'key keeper' and needed to speak with Elbren soon.

She sheathed the old sword behind her braid, trying to decide if she should take Silmar or this one, time would tell. She then walked over to lay a hand upon Parador's head.

"Rise Lady Parador. Let me commend you for such an offer for we will need someone we can trust on this end. I know you would like to go with us, but to stay behind and offer protection could prove a wise decision also. I thank you for this great offer as it will give me peace of mind, knowing that you await our return."

Parador and Idril grasped each others arms and then hugged with large smiles upon their faces. Idril spoke quietly into her ear so that not even Elbren could hear what was said. "When I talk to Elbren, stay with us as you will need to hear what I have to say." When they pulled apart from the embrace, they smiled at one another, in understanding silence.

There he stood with a decision to be made. Should he go on the quest, or stay behind? He didn't think it would take many to guard, and Parador was valiant enough to guard it alone. But was he needed in Beleriand? Was it his fate, to keep Beren and Luthien alive? He was uncertain, but a decision had to be made.

"My Lord, with your permission, I would want to go, and continue in Beleriand. I know I've missed a great deal of time, due to my wounds, but I'm healed now and I am certain, I'm up for this. So, if it's okay with you, I'll be aiding you there."

Elbren thought about it. He had missed some information, but it can't possibly be hold against him. And he was a good swordsman and a good companion.

"Aglanor, I'd be happy to have your aid again. You missed out previously, but you've shown the will to continue, and your loyalty, so I accept you as a companion in the next quest."

Relieved, Aglanor bowed to Elbren and sat back down. Only a few were still left to decide. The struggle in Tempests eyes was clear. Aglanor knew the struggle, and it was a hard one indeed.

Tempest knew she must go, for she no longer feared her own betrayal of her fellow Knights. How could she tell them that her greatest trial had ended with Sauron's defeat, or make them understand how close they had all come to utter failure?

But, she still had much to do. She felt the urgency of the task before them, even as her eyes rested on the blade that Elbren held. She studied him for several moments wondering if it was wise for an elf to carry a weapon of such strength. For she had seen the glimmer of greed in Curufin's eyes at the mention of the Silmarils, and she knew that madness dwelt in such wantings.

She drew her sword thoughtfully and held it out toward the small group that was forming to travel back through the tapestry. "I will lend my sword to this mission as well, for there is still much that puzzles me. Besides, I alone know the face of the one who attacked us on the bridge, and wish to end his treachery and twisting of the past. I will go, though a strange fear creeps at the borders of my heart. Yet even so, my sword is yours."

Elbren smiled at his companions, "Then it is to Angband, to Morgoth's Throne Room, that we will venture next. Let us prepare ourselves and then meet in the Mural Room in one hour. Parador and Idril, if you will remain for a moment, I have some things to discuss with you both."

The Mithril Knights took their leave of the council room while Elbren found a comfortable chair near the western windows. His mind was full of the next chapter in their mission...

Morgoth's Throne Room....where we will witness one of the greatest showings of power by Luthien as she puts a spell of sleep upon all in the room....and then, there are the Silmarils. Three of them. All three of them....

"Elbren."

Elbren looked up to see Tempest standing before him. Had he fallen asleep? He felt groggy and out of sorts.

"You do realise that when Luthien casts her spell upon the throne room, WE will fall under its influence as well," she said simply.

"Yes...yes," Elbren cleared his throat. Why did the image of the Silmarils in Morgoth's crown make him feel so...detached?

Tempest narrowed her eyes at him, "You are more worried about something else...what is it?"

Elbren ran his hand over his face and took a deep breath, "Well...I am more concerned that the Knights of the Silmaril will make a move either in the Throne Room or once we leave to take the Silmaril that Beren will recover."

Tempest studied him closely, "Knights of the Silmaril? Why are you referring to the Guild with the old name? That hasn't been used since the First Age....that's not all that you fear."

"Celegorm considers himself to be of the Old Order," Elbren explained, "as does Curufin, I suppose. Their task and oath is to regain the Silmarils...evidently, there are still those who cling to those old oaths."

"I see," Tempest replied, "so, there very well could be a contingent of the Old Order that is involved in this whole episode."

"We have to consider that as a possibility," Elbren nodded.

"And we have to realise the temptation that the Silmarils will cause for us all, especially the Eldar...especially the Noldor," Tempest continued.

"I believe that we, the Mithril Knights, will be true to our Oaths and we will carry out this mission exactly as it should be with minimal or no changes to the history recorded in the Mural," Elbren spoke firmly, "but, I also believe that if there are any of the Old Order that they, too, will cling to their oaths."

"Understood," Tempest said, "understood, indeed."

Mirdain spoke with Tempest and Aglanor while Elbren was busy with Idril and Parador. "It is a brave thing which Parador does, staying behind by herself."

Aglanor nodded. "I am worried for her. Her skills are commendable, but by herself...we know not how many enemies we have here."

Tempest was unswerved. "Let us not be too worried for her. I think those of us that are travelling back to the First Age will all play a crucial part. Not only will we need someone to be on the lookout for enemies in this Age, but we will need someone to guard our still forms as we undertake the visionquest."

Mirdain replied, "Still, I would offer what aid I can to Parador. For the remaining hour we have until we depart, I will search this house for suspicious characters. Idril seems certain that at least one is in this house."

The three of them agreed that it was practical, and split up to go about their business.

Mirdain first went about searching the armouries and the library on the lower floor to see if anything else was missing there, but there was nothing apparently out of place. He then went upstairs, and the first room he checked was his personal study, the first room at the top of the stairs. He had left his own equipment there, given the state he'd left his sleeping quarters in. He noticed the door was ajar and immediately became suspicious, as it had not been before.

Bursting into the room, Mirdain saw a figure stooping over with Mirdain's weapons and armour in his arms. "What are you doing!?" Mirdain shouted, and the figure dropped his things at the sound of his voice.

"M'lord, you..you are back from the conference. I was just, that is I mean...I am Tomas sir. I was just taking your things back to your room. I thought perhaps Lord Aglanor had misplaced them."

Mirdain knew he was lying but decided to play along. "Well he did not, I placed them here myself. Get yourself gone from this place immediately!"

"Yes sir." Tomas bowed and then headed for the door, but not before giving Mirdain a glance, a glance that hinted at anger and perhaps...recognition. Mirdain bent over his equipment and inspected to make sure all was in order. He then examined the rest of the room. Minutes later, a dark figure crept up behind him and dealt him a blow to the back of the head that left him unconscious. The figure would have done him further harm, had it not been startled by footsteps on the stairs and fled.

Elbren was walking up the stairs with Parador, discussing the details of the matters at hand, when a figure, apparently fleeing in haste, ran into them and nearly sent them all tumbling back down.

"Whoa!" Elbren exclaimed, grabbing the Knight and steadying him. "Your errand must be urgent indeed!"

The Knight pulled back sharply with a pale and drawn face. He stammered something that was unintelligible, but he would not meet Elbren nor Parador's gaze.

"I cannot understand you," Elbren's eyes narrowed, "slow down. What has happened?"

"Uh....it is Lord Mirdain...he has been injured in his rooms...there!" the Knight replied in a panic.

"Go and see," Elbren told Parador, but then he firmly gripped the Knight's arm, "you are Tomas, are you not?"

"Y-yes, M'lord, I am," came the reply.

Parador's voice called out from the open door down the hall, "He's been injured from a blow to his head, but not too badly."

Elbren leaned closer to Tomas, "You WILL tell me all that you know of this, now come!"

Elbren half-dragged Tomas back into Mirdain's quarters and with each step, the Guild Master became more convinced that Tomas was somehow involved. Parador had Mirdain sitting up in a chair and was applying a cloth to his head. Mirdain looked shaken, but he seemed aware of his surroundings and coherent. However, when he saw Tomas enter the room, he stood up and looked angry.

"I would say that this fellow knows something of the plot to steal a Silmaril," Mirdain accusingly.

"I thought as much," Elbren tightened his grip, "Parador, let us bind him and have him taken to confined quarters."

Parador and Elbren stripped Tomas of his weapons and of his Mithril Cloak and then bound his legs and arms tightly with Lothlorien rope. Tomas remained silent during this, but when they were done and ready to have him escorted into confinement, he turned to them all.

"You will not...cannot...succeed. You may call us traitors to the Oaths of a Mithril Knight, but we say that YOU are traitors to the Oaths of the Knights of the Silmaril. We are ALL founded in those oaths. Even you, Lord Elbren, are haunted by the visions of Feanor's treasures. I wonder what you will do when you see them with your own eyes?"

Elbren pursed his lips and then motioned for the newly arrived Mithril Knights to take Tomas away, "He is NOT to be left alone for even one moment."

The Knights nodded and led him away while Elbren stood in deep thought. Was this uprising of the Old Order something recently orchestrated, or had this been a plan in the works for years? Ages? Who else was involved? How would they know lest the Old Order continued to act under their very noses?

"I cannot impress upon you how dangerous this is," Elbren finally said to Mirdain and Parador. "I do not wish to do this, but until we return from Angbad, this Guild House will be placed in a lockdown. No one will enter or leave without YOUR permission, Lady Parador. No one."

"I understand," Parador nodded.

"Mirdain, can you travel? I would have it so, if you are able," Elbren asked.

"I am going with you, even if you have to carry me," Mirdain grinned.

"I'd rather not carry you," Elbren chuckled, "but, if I must...I must. Come, walk with me while we talk. We must hurry to the Mural Room. There is no more time for tarrying here."

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

"........so, we will send Celegorm and Curufin back to where we encountered them," Elbren was explaining to the Knights as they prepared for the journey, "but we will keep Angrist with us. Beren MUST have that blade to take the Silmaril. I can no longer trust this to fate."

"Who will carry it?" Tempest asked.

"And what will be our destination?" Idril spoke up.

"I will carry it," Elbren answered, though he hesitated a moment, "and we will go directly to the far North...less than a day's journey from Angband. I am having us enter the Mural just a day or so before Beren and Luthien arrive. We MUST get to them before they enter the Throne Room and give Angrist to Beren."

"We're just going to walk up and hand him the dagger?" Tempest sounded critical. "What happened to subtlety and being invisible to history?"

"Desperate times call for desperate measures," Elbren shrugged, "Beren must gain the Silmaril and they must leave Angband alive. I do not wish to leave anything to chance."

"I'm not sure that I agree with your tactics, but at the moment, I have no better ideas," Tempest held out her hand, "I'm ready for the visionquest herbs."

"Not yet," Elbren turned as the Mural Room doors were opened and in walked Celegorm and Curufin, still bound and now blindfolded. "We must get them on their way first."

"You know, I'm not entirely understanding HOW they are here, in the flesh," Mirdain commented and looked questioningly at Elbren.

Elbren had the brothers lie down on the stone floor, atop the Runes of power, and then bade them drink from a large, dark vial. Within moments, their visages faded from their sight.

"That's just...odd," Mirdain said flatly.

"I'll explain it to you...some other time," Elbren grinned. He then walked to each of the Knights and handed them not one, but two, vials of the concoction.

"Why two?" Idril asked.

"Just in case I am waylaid, I don't want any of you being trapped," Elbren explained, "the silver vial is for the return trip. Don't mix them up. Ready? Let's go!"

Idril took the vials and thought about what Elbren had said "In case I am waylaid" and she did not want to even consider that happening. But she understood his precaution of having the return vial prepared. She prayed that they would not need it.

She placed the other vial in her herb pouch for safe keeping for the time being, making sure that it was the silver one. She waited while Elbren finished passing the vials out and gave them the go ahead to drink them, altogether. This was an unusual 'trip' for they were not going to be going back to a time that would be easy for any of them. She laid down with her head on the roll and then drank, as she heard the others drinking their own vials.

She felt the liquid coursing down her throat, turning hot, then cold as she waited to be transferred into the past. She had closed her eyes when she drank and she waited for the strange but welcome sensations that would come upon her. The lightness. A sense of peace. Then she heard birds in trees and she opened her eyes. She had made the journey and there was Elbren beside her. She was standing eye to eye with him, looking around for the others and at the scenary. Trying to place where they had emerged at and the time of day.

It was close to the same time of year as when they had left, just a little further into the season. And they had arrived at just before dawn with the sun coloring the mountains in the distance and chasing the darkness of the night quickly away. They could see that Angband lay near and that they had, as far as distance, arrived in a good place and were unseen in their arrival. So far things were working out for them. Elbren checked for Angrist and found it where he had placed it, carefully concealed from sight. He helped Lady Idril to stand and then they turned as they heard another 'arrive'. It was Mirdain. Idril went to him and they grasped arms in a greeting and yet a little more, as she helped him to stand.

They all turned to await the next arrival as the sun turned the night sky from a brillant blue to the white hot light of the days arrival.

Curufe stood on the foothills of the Ered Wethrin, looking towards Angband. He would not go any closer -- he feared what would happen if he were to see a Silmaril in person. While he had not sworn the oath of Feanor, as his nephews had, he was still of that House. The decision, however, had not been an easy one. He had promised Elbren to track Beren and Luthien, and that promise bound him as a Knight, and no one took such oaths more seriously than Curufe. But he would not interfere with something that was as important as Elbren had suggested. So he sat on a rock, and waited.

Tempest blinked her eyes several times before she was able to stand and take in her surroundings. So, they were back again, but this time she wondered if they all would be returning. Something dark had invaded the hearts of some of her fellow Knights, but she knew not who to suspect. She could never understand the need of possession of the Silmarils that grew like a cancer on the minds of elves, but she would never take that greed for granted again.

They must be remarkable jewels to envoke such devotion, she thought to herself, her eyes resting on Elbren as he was securing Angist. She felt her left pocket where she had stored some soft wax ear plugs that she intended to stuff in her ears when they reached Morgoth's hall. She did not know if they would work, but she did not intend to be enchanted by Luthien's song and left to the mercy of Morgoth's rage. Besides, she had the sneaking suspicion that she was not alone in carrying such objects, and that Morgoth's throne room would conceal more Mithril Knights than just her party.

Elbren blinked as the shadowy sunlight stung his eyes. He drew a quick breath and immediately coughed at the acrid taste in his throat. Sitting up, he could feel a great weight settle upon his shoulders.

What am I doing here...of all places?

A sadness cloaked him then as a rush of images flew through his mind...Elves, tall and proud, fighting valiantly against a great host of horrid, twisted creatures. Balrogs in great number...hideous and fowl, lashing and screaming as the Elves tried to press onward.

Towards Angband.

Elbren leapt to his feet and tried to calm his fiercely beating heart. He reached down to his waist and felt for the dagger, Angrist. Yes, it was there.

We are going to enter the lair of the Enemy of Middle Earth....we are going to walk into the Throne Room of Morgoth Himself...

Elbren shook his head to dismiss the images that were now dancing in his head. There can be no fear...there can be no desire...there can only be WILL....

"What a barren place," Idril said quietly.

It was a dreary dale that lay before the Gate of Angband. Black chasms opened beside the road, whence forms of writhing serpents issued.

"Oh no," Elbren groaned.

"What is it?" Tempest asked, alarmed at his tone.

"I absolutely hate serpents," he muttered, glancing now at the ground around him.

On either hand the cliffs stood as embattled walls, and upon them sat carrion fowl crying with fell voices.

"Wonderful," Tempest raised her eyebrows, "I absolutely hate big, ugly birds."

Before them was the impregnable Gate, an arch wide and dark at the foot of the mountain; above it reared a thousand feet of precipice.

"Well, I'm none too keen on heights, so please don't tell me that we're going up there," Idril said.

"No," Elbren mused, "we're not going up there. We're going directly in the Gate." He looked at her, "We're going to need your Veil."

Suddenly, in the distance, they could hear the strong baying of a distant hound. The baying of Huan, the great hound of war, whom long ago the Valar unleashed.

"They come," Elbren pursed his lips, "quickly! Everyone!"

The Knights quickly gathered around the Elven Lord as he spoke in haste, "Idril will Veil us; we must move with all speed in the wake of Luthien, Beren and Huan. Luthien will enchant Carcharoth at the Gate and then enter the fortress. We must be on their heels! She may or may not sense us, I am not sure; but, even if she does, we must remain close enough to see them. They come! Prepare yourselves! Veil us, Lady Idril!"

And in the distance came Huan, Beren, and Luthien, though they wore foul guises that were frightful to look upon. Huan was arrayed in the hame of Draugluin, and Luthien was the winged fell of Thuringwethil. Beren in all things was as a werewolf, save that in his eyes there shone a spirit grim indeed but clean.

As they approached, a horror threatened them all when they saw the trinity of monsters. Most foul of all was the bat-like creature clinging to Draugluin with creased wings. The werewolf howled suddenly and leapt towards them as the bat sprang into the air and wheeled in the air above.

"Stand fast," Elbren whispered, though it was more for his own benefit than anyone else's. He knew in his heart that the approaching horrors were Huan, Luthien, and Beren, but Luthien's enchantment was powerful. The smell of fear was both before and behind them.

In a flash, they were past and nearing the Gate; without another word spoken, the Mithril Knights began to follow with all speed and caution that they could manage...

Mirdain raced with all speed to be near the front of the group, and to keep up with Beren and Luthien. The terror of their disguises was alarming to him, and it was difficult, but he kept reminding himself that it was not their true nature. The terror of Carcharoth was indeed real though, and Mirdain's heart skipped a beat as the company approached the dread Guardian of the Gate.

As was told in their histories, Carcharoth suspected Beren and Luthien and haulted them, for he knew the Draugluin was dead. It was then that Luthien cast off her disguise, appearing small before the might of Carcharoth, yet radiant and terrible. Her true divine power shone forth and she commanded Carcharoth to sleep, and he went to sleep. They turned to pass into the gate.

Mirdain, knowing of the horror that the beast Carcharoth had done its time, wished to strike a blow for the good of them all. Seeing the wolf asleep and its malice stayed, Mirdain's courage came back to him blazing like fire. He drew his sword and positioned it to sever the head of Carcharoth. Quickly though Elbren grabbed his arm. "NO! Friend, remember that we cannot change anything that history tells us. It is Beren's fate to lose his hand."

"Still, I wish we could cause Morgoth some significant grief while we are here."

Idril stepped beside him. "We will; you and I, all of us. We will hurt the enemy in any way we can. It's likely that we will have to, if Beren and Luthien are to make it back to the Gate unhindered after fleeing the Throne Room."

Mirdain nodded. Tempest reminded them with urgency. "Beren and Luthien have already passed into the gate! We must hurry."

Then Beren and Luthien went through the Gate, and down the labyrinthine stairs. The Mithril Knights were hard after them even as the darkness and foreboding of the dark passages of Angband enveloped them.

"Do they mean to go directly to Morgoth's Throne Room?" Idril whispered.

"I've no idea," Elbren replied, peering into the darkness through Idril's Veil, "but, I would wager that Luthien can sense Morgoth's presence. They may very well mean to--"

Elbren slunk back into the shadows of the snaking staircase as three huge Werewolves came towards them. Beren, Luthien, and Huan they passed without a glance, but as the Werewolves approached the Mithril Knights, they slowed their pace and began to snort and sniff.

"This is no good," Mirdain muttered. "They can't see us; but they can smell us!"

"Move...quickly! As soon as enough space opens...now! Go!" Tempest hurried her fellow Knights past the still searching Werewolves.

They sprinted down the stairs, barely hearing the passing of Huan before them, until they came upon a landing that was brightly lit.

"Down!" Elbren whispered.

Before them, was the Throne Room of Morgoth. The Seat of Morgoth. Upheld by horror, lit by fire, and filled with weapons of death and torment. It reeked of terror and twisted life.

Beren, still in his wolf's form, slunk through the doorway and, to the Knights' absolute amazement, made his way directly beneath Morgoth's Throne. There, the wolf-Beren lay down and, with a watchful eye, waited for Luthien to act.

"What are they going to do?" Aglanor asked.

Luthien suddenly and sharply turned towards the hidden Knights, but her message was clear: She knew that they were there; she did NOT want them to interfere. She gestured towards them with her palms raised; her eyes were fierce.

In that moment, Morgoth put forth his Will and stripped Luthien of her disguise, and he bent his gaze upon her. But, Luthien was not daunted by his eyes.

"I am Luthien, daughter of Thingol and Melian," her voice was rich and clear, "and you are the Enemy of my People."

Morgoth nodded his head slowly and the Silmarils upon his crown flashed and shone in the darkness like silver stars. "Indeed, I know who you are. I even know of your errand. Thou art bold to enter into my lair and play the thief!"

"Nay, not a thief!" Luthien cried, "for I will offer my services as payment for a single Silmaril."

"Services?" Morgoth laughed, "services? What could you possibly do for me, Princess of Menegroth?"

"I will sing for thee," Luthien coaxed sweetly, "after the manner of a minstrel. And should my tongue bring you any pleasure, then you can measure what reward I have earned."

Morgoth, looking upon her beauty, conceived in his thought an evil lust, and a design more dark than any that had yet come into his heart since he fled from Valinor. Thus, he was beguiled by his own malice, for he watched her, leaving her free for a while, and taking secret pleasure in his thought.

"She is shaking like a leaf, look!" Tempest whispered hoarsely.

"His gaze is upon her like a bolt and holds her fast," Aglanor observed, "she has to look away!"

Elbren suddenly stepped out from Idril's Veil, though he was not in view of Morgoth or any creature in the throne room. He gestured towards Luthien, "Hide her with the Veil and let her begin her song. Quickly!"

At Elbren's abrupt outburst, Tempest gazed at him with surprise that faded into dread. She feared something....something about the way his eyes lit upon the crown of Morgoth and the way his fingers strayed to the place he kept Angist hidden beneath his clothes.

Here concealed, and yet so exposed, she realized their danger more than ever before. Luthien must weave her song, but she was just a pawn herself now, in this strange game they played to possess something they had lost long long ago. When Tempest looked upon the Silmarils, she only felt dismay and a warning.

They had been fools to come here, for this was exactly where they were meant to be, to bring Angrist to fulfill its destiny. But whose hand would cut the jewels from the iron crown? She doubted it would be Beren's, just as she felt the nagging sensation that they were not alone.

She turned her eyes toward Elbren, every muscle tense, lest he should prove a traitor, yet her eyes wandered to the lovely elf maiden who stood strong and proud before the throne of Morgoth, and lifted her chin gently as she began her song.

Sweat dripping down his face, Aglanor watched tensed to the scene. Luthien standing there, opposing the strongest enemy EŠ has known. Does she have a chance to survive? And what's Beren going to do? No answers were given yet.

Aglanor looked at his fellow knights. They looked as impatient and tensed as I did. Suddenly Elbren gave them an order. Aglanor had little time to think it over. Wouldn't Morgoth turn to them? And would Luthien have enough time to save all of us? But Elbren was steadfast and little could bring the guildmaster of his idea's.

His gaze came upon Tempest. She looked worriedly to Elbren. Suddenly Aglanor doubted. Could he be up to something? He was master of this guild and did it with pride. Yet with all that's been happening, could he be trusted? He looked at Tempest questioningly. What should we do? But time was ticking away.

Elbren stood as still as stone. He could no longer see his fellow Mithril Knights as they were still "behind" Idril's Veil. And then Luthien began her song. A heaviness descended upon Elbren's shoulders like a woolen blanket, comforting but almost stifling. He heard Morgoth bellow loudly in protest; and, then, a sudden panic gripped Elbren's heart like a vice.

They were in the Throne Room of Morgoth, Dark Lord of Middle Earth. Fallen Valar. Enemy of the Eldar.

THIEF!!!

The shrill voice resounded in Elbren's head, slicing into his fear like the keen edge of Angrist, which still rested upon Elbren's belt.

Look! Behold! The greatest treasures ever created by your people are before you!

Elbren shook his head as he fell back against the stone wall of the stair's landing. He placed his head in his hands and tried to will the voice to silence. Glancing sideways, he saw Luthien looking at him, even as she sang, and the look upon her face was of intense concentration...and concern.

What are you planning to do? Luthien's voice now entered into Elbren's mind.

Elbren had no idea how to answer that. He was caught in the chaos of Luthien's song of enchantment and the torment of the voice in his head.

LOOK! Before you, the Silmarils and the Light of the Two Trees!

Elbren's body turned and stepped forth from the landing, even as he fought and tried to remain where he was. He heard Tempest say something sharply, which momentarily distracted him, but his body was no longer his own. His hand moved to where Angrist rested and he removed it. Looking up, Elbren could see that the Throne Room was completely under Luthien's spell. Even the great Morgoth sat in a waking dream; his eyes distant and black.

Audibly gasping, Elbren saw the Silmarils shining even more brightly in response to Luthien's song. They were...beyond beautiful. Tears welled in Elbren's eyes as he gazed upon them, and for a moment, he was able to gain control of his mind and body and stop his advance upon Morgoth's Throne.

"There's no time!"

No sooner than Elbren heard the voice than he found himself on the stone floor, hit hard from the side. There was one...no two...upon him and wrestling with him to gain control of Angrist.

"Let Beren have his Silmaril, we will take the other two!"

Elbren kicked and punched as well as he could, but without the voice in his head to distract him, he was quickly falling under Luthien's enchanted sleep spell. The last thing that he saw was an unknown Mithril Knight...or was it a Knight of the Silmaril...standing over him with Angrist in his hand...

It all happened so quickly that Tempest felt as though she had stepped into a whirlwind and was just trying to maintain her focus. She was aware that something was wrong with Elbren, but she was distracted by the two figures that had emerged from the shadows. She had just enough time to call out sharply in warning before they attacked Elbren and stripped him of Angrist.

Despite the fact that she had stuffed her ears with wax, she could feel the song of Luthien flowing over her, weighing down heavily on her eyes. She pushed the feeling away and drew her sword, though it felt like lead and she wondered if she would be able to wield it properly.

As she stepped from the protection of the veil, the intruders noticed her presence, though they were intent on Morgoth's crown. The first elf started and stared at her for a moment. "You again!" he said.

"Yes, I had thought we would meet again," she said slowly, aware that he was not affected by Luthien's song. She would not do well in a fight against him this time.

He cocked his head to the side as his ally hastily took the knife and began his work on the Silmarils. "It is a pity that you came here. Morgoth will have such fun with you."

He would have said more, but he was suddenly bowled over from behind by someone, and Tempest realized suddenly that Beren had abandoned his werewolf form and attacked him.

Tempest turned to her fellow knights and saw that Idril was leaning over Elbren. She called to the others to retrieve the one Silmaril and apprehend the other intruder. Most of them stared back at her with glazed eyes, but they struggled to assist her. She shook her head to ward off the sleepiness that crept along her mind.

Though the song was severely slowing down their progress, Tempest was grateful for it, for she dared not risk the chance of facing Morgoth's rage. She prayed that Luthien would not become confused by the unfolding events and cease her song, but as she glanced at the shining elf maiden, she could see the determination in her eyes. She was no fool; she knew the danger that they all were in. If Morgoth should recover his senses, it would mean the death of them all.

Mirdain fought the sleeping spell as the others did. His crystal blazed with intense white fire, as if in tune with the Silmarils as they responded to Luthien's song. It filled him with strength, and he felt able to move and resist the spell to a degree.

Mirdain then turned his gaze to the silmarils on the very crown of Morgoth, and a sudden and surprising lust took him. "What are we waiting for!?" He strode over and violently wrenched Elbren's Angrist from the attacker. Overcome, he practically ran to the Silmarils, intent on cutting them himself.

"NO!" Came a voice from behind. It was Beren's. "It is my task and mine to finish." Mirdain felt an initial pang of rage, which gave way to common sense. Beren, using his Angrist, brought it bear on the Iron Crown, and removed his Silmaril. Mirdain was watchful of enemies waking, and shifted his Angrist between hands nervously. As Beren held his Silmaril aloft, Mirdain could see the same wonder in Beren's eyes that Mirdain felt in his heart. "Cut them all," he suddenly squeaked. "Go beyond your quest Beren."

"Yes, I will. And why shouldn't I, since we are here?"

Beren stooped to cut a second and Mirdain was positioned to cut the third. But just then, Mirdain heard the voice of Luthien in his head, perhaps woven into her song. "Do not do this, the task is complete, we must leave, and in a hurry." Mirdain swooned and fell backward to the ground from the power of her voice. Looking up, he imagined that Beren had heard the same thing, or something like it. Beren swooned as well and stumbled, but his blade was already at work. As he stumbled, a piece of Angrist broke off and smote the cheak of Morgoth...

...the knife Angrist snapped, and a shard of the blade flying smote the cheek of Morgoth. The Dark Lord groaned and stirred, and all the host of Angband moved in sleep.

Including Elbren, who had fallen deeply into the sleep of Luthien's spell. Terror gripped him. But he was not the only one: Beren and Luthien, everyone in the dark Throne Room, froze with fear. Morgoth was waking. Elbren rolled onto his side and painfully pulled himself to his feet. He glanced around quickly to see his fellow Knights eyeing each other warily. The two intruders, who must be Knights of the Silmaril, also stood without moving a muscle.

"GO!" Elbren somehow found the voice to shout at Beren and Luthien. "GO!" He shouted again, even as Morgoth began to raise his head.

Heedless and without disguise, desiring only to see the light once more, Beren and Luthien did flee. They were neither hindered nor pursued, for as the two Knights of the Silmaril moved to waylay them, the Mithril Knights sprang again into action.

Elbren drew his sword and launched his attack upon the nearest intruder; over his shoulder, he could clearly hear the clash of swords and knew that the other Mithril Knights were similarly engaged.

"Make this quick!" Elbren shouted again, for the terror of Morgoth was again filling the chamber, and the anger of the Dark Lord was overwhelming.

"Slay them!?" Tempest hissed as she gave ground and bumped into Elbren, leaving them standing back to back.

"Yes," Elbren grunted as he parried, "yes! If there is no other way! We cannot remain here!"

Tempest, Mirdain, and Aglanor quickly slew their opponent in unison while Elbren and Idril brought their blades to bear upon theirs. Morgoth was awakening with rapid vengeance, and Elbren did NOT want to be in Angband anywhere when the Dark Lord came to the full realisation of what had been stolen from him.

Finally, the two Knights of the Silmaril lay upon the cold, stone floor in death. Elbren looked at his fellow Mithril Knights; he was sure that the expression of anxious concern that he saw on their faces was mirrored upon his own. He stole a look at Morgoth, which froze his heart, but in that same glance, the light of the two remaining Silmarils within the Iron Crown caught his eye.

So beautiful. So terribly beautiful.

"Elbren," it was Tempest. "Elbren." She repeated. "We have to go...NOW!"

A regret so strong that it brought the iron taste of blood to his mouth compelled Elbren in that moment of hesitation. Oh, how he wanted the Silmarils.

"I will leave you here if you do not come NOW!" Tempest repeated. "MOVE!" She shouted at the others who were already making their way to the exit.

Elbren finally tore his gaze from the Silmarils as a tortured sigh escaped his lips. It hurt for him to turn away from the Iron Crown; yet, his feet did move, albeit sluggishly, and he found himself following in the wake of his fellow Knights...

Idril had placed her earplugs into her ears after she had loosened her 'Veil' and kept it up from the time they entered the halls until the tip of Angrist hit Morgoth. Luthien's song was strong to get through the plugs in her ears and all felt the effects in one way or another. She had stood watching Elbren near Beren and Luthien and the Knights of the Silmaril's, for she was convinced that no Mithril Knight would do what they were attempting. As for the Knights of the Silmaril's well in desperation of their old order, maybe they would attempt such a feat. Obviously.

She also had watched as the tip of Angrist smote the cheek of Morgoth in horror and as she realized that he could, and would waken, she dropped her 'veil' and drew Silmar from behind her hair. In her haste she did not tie her hair but left it loose and flowing so she was careful but quick in drawing her sword. With her 'veil' still loose and sometimes 'veiling' her and Elbren at her back, her opponent between shock and surprise, was good but doomed in the end.

Once they had killed them, she sheathed Silmar and has stood between the gaze of Morgoth and the retreating Knights. Elbren was struggling again with the decision to leave the other Silmaril's in the Iron Crown and to leave and she had a duty to the other knights - to get them out without being seen. But a duty to Elbren as well. She could not leave him out of her sight for she would turn and insist he return with them and fight anyone, to the death if necessary, that would try to follow them no matter who they were, even Morgoth. Elbren was following but slowly. She slowed her pace to match his own.

Finally Elbren was just in front of her and they were all "Veiled" as they exited the halls of Morgoth, Idril hoped they left undetected.

There were only a few moments in all her life that Tempest had felt true fear, the kind that presses down on the heart and nearly immobilizes the one who feels it. Something about seeing the sleeping Morgoth stir and begin to awake and filled her with a paralyzing dread, as if she could see a vision of her life under his iron hand.

She could not face that kind of captivity. Not again.

It was a pure act of will that caused her to shake Luthien's song from her mind and spring into action. She did everything mechanically, as if she was trained for this very moment, and she did not even stop to wipe the traitor's blood from her sword before she was making a hasty retreat behind Luthien.

Elbren had paused, and she knew what he was thinking, for his eyes fastened upon the Silmarils that still shone brightly in the darkness. She understood his longing, for she had felt it once, a long time ago.

But to stay was Death.

She turned, after warning him, for she would not turn again to gaze upon the face of Morgoth. If Elbren did not follow them, she would not wait for him. Their peril was great, for in her heart she felt that Morgoth was stirring and would soon be gathering his strength to him, pursuing them as far as he was able.

She fled down the dark hallways, pursued by her dark thoughts, with a gnawing fear whispering nameless evils that haunted the way before and behind them.

A crack as of Thunder rent the air, and stones fell from the hallways as the knights fled in fear. A Balrog, screaming with the sounds of true burst through the doorway of the throne room in pursuit. It could not see them due to the protection of Idril's veil, yet began lashing its whip madly in every direction in the hopes of hitting at least one knight. Mirdain, staying close with Idril, attempted to protect her from the lashes to the best of his ability, while frantically dodging himself.

Mirdain was quickly tiring and was getting slower and slower in his reaction to the whip. It caught his foot and tripped him up, sending him tumbling down the hallway. He cried out at the seering pain, and the Balrog screamed in delight. Before the Balrog was on top of him though, Elbren let fly an arrow, and it smote the Balrog in the chest. Elbren seemed to have come to his senses again somewhat. Aglanor and Tempest hurled throwing knives, while Idril held up her veil for them all. The demon wondered at the direction these weapons came, and thought the one it caught must have had marvelous speed. It loosed its whip enough for Mirdain to get free. He stood, though barely, his leg throbbing with pain.

As it had many times before, Mirdain's crystal reacted to his need. Filled with and energy that felt electric, Mirdain shouted "Elbereth!", something no servant of Angband liked to hear. Drawing his sword, Mirdain gripped it so tightly that it seemed the bones of his hand would break. The sword glowed with the crystal's energy, until it became a bright beacon in the semi dark hallway. The Balrog was dismayed. It could not see the Knights, only the new light about them. It thought that divine spirits must surely have come to attack Angband. Not wishing to waste the moment, Mirdain launched the "flaming" sword with as much force as he could muster, and it buried in the creature's chest. The Balrog stumbled, but was not dead. Tempest urged the party to flee again, and they tried to get on their way again as best they could, though Mirdain was now slowed somewhat by the now excruciating pain in his leg.

Elbren allowed Idril to corral him into leaving Morgoth's Throne Room...much of the journey up through the darkened halls was a blur. The image of the glowing Silmarils was burned into Elbren's mind's eye; he would never forget their beauty. Even the memory brought tears to his eyes.

And yet, his hesitation might very well have caused disaster. Yes, he knew in his heart that it had been a mistake for him to have ever entered Angband; still, it had been his duty. Though he had nearly faltered, he had not. Glancing at Idril and then Tempest, he knew that if not for them, he would have remained despite the peril.

The Balrog's attack caught Elbren off guard; but even as he tried to form a defense, the valiant Mirdain had intervened. Elbren could see that Mirdain was wounded...but only a short distance more, and they would be out of the horrid lair of Morgoth.

When the sunlight hit Elbren's face, he flinched as if in pain, and yet his heart rejoiced at the sight and the warmth. But, they weren't out yet: ahead, they could see Beren and Luthien, along with Huan. Something was obviously wrong for Beren lay upon the ground and Luthien was kneeling over him.

When the Knights reached them, Elbren could see that Beren's hand had been ripped away, blood was flowing freely, and the mortal man looked pale and near death. Luthien looked up at the Knights with pity and fear. Nearby, Huan made a mournful sound...

"He cannot die now..." Luthien said as she ran her hand over Beren's pale face.

"No," Elbren agreed, "he cannot."

Using the knowledge that Gandalf the White and the Eagles had granted to Elbren after the Battle for Caras Galadhon during the War of the Ring, Elbren sent for the Great Eagles in this time of need.

"Help will come," Elbren said, "your tale is not yet told in full, M'Lady, but never again will you have to enter Morgoth's Lair."

Luthien studied them all with grey, piercing eyes, but said nothing. She nodded and turned her attention back to her love while the Knights stood silently.

Idril was tending to Mirdain's wounded leg while the others waited for the Eagles to appear.

"Are we done here?" Tempest asked Elbren.

"Yes," he replied, "See? The Eagles come and now we shall depart." Elbren spoke to them all, "take your vials and prepare for the return home. Praise Eru that we have accomplished our task despite what might have been disaster. I owe you all my life and I am ashamed at my weakness."

The Knights took out their vials and, as the Eagles came clearly into sight and began their spiraling descent, each one drank the bitter liquid with anticipation for the journey back to Lothlorien...

Mirdain had stayed close to her while they were fleeing and when the thunderous sounds started, he stayed even closer. She had turned her head to catch a glimpse of what she had only heard stories of from a wizard friend and now, she would see for herself ... a Balrog. His size was great and the stench that preceeded him immense. It was unfortunate that the the wind was in their favor for the sulfuric smell was enough to about knock one off their feet. And suddenly it was like the sun had been cast into their midst. The Balrog was immediately on the attack even though it didn't seem to be able to discern where they were. Then Mirdain moved from behind her veil and was in full sight of the immense creature. They fought for some time and she could tell that Mirdain was tiring.

Idril had almost let the "Veil" fall but realized just in time that if she were to do so, they would all be doomed. The Balrog for some reason could not find them nor could he smell them for the air current (if it could be called that) was in their favor. Except for Mirdain's. When he had valiantly stepped out to waylay the Balrog, she felt extremely proud but also many other emotions ran through her mind and heart. When the Balrog's whip caught his leg and he fell, she knew that she could not sacrifice the company for one and her backward glance had conveyed that and all the love and sorrow that went with that decision. So she held the "Veil" and kept their escape hidden. But as the fight had progressed and the Balrog had been delayed enough for them to make their escape, she had been unable to say anything to anyone.

The sunlight was a joy to see after the darkness of Morgoths' Halls. Idril had let the "veil" fall, twisting her hair into a knot and quickly checking everyone for wounds. She knew that Mirdian was hurt and she went to him first to check his leg. She used a bit of cloth to slow the bleeding and just looked deeply into his eyes. Mirdain saw deep pools of unshed tears there. She then went to Elbren to ask him if she should see to Beren's hand. Elbren said that to go ahead but to use something of his or Luthien's to wrap it with so she had worked on Beren while Elbren spoke with Luthien and she had asked the Lady for a bit of cloth from her skirts. She had quickly wrapped it and tied it to stop the bleeding but she did not give him anything for the pain. She waited instead to tell the Lady what herb to look for. A glance was exchanged between the two ladies that Idril would never forget.

"Help will come," Elbren said, "your tale is not yet told in full, M'Lady, but never again will you have to enter Morgoth's Lair."

Luthien studied them all with grey, piercing eyes, but said nothing. She nodded and turned her attention back to her love while the Knights stood silently.

Idril went back to tending to Mirdain's wounded leg while the others waited for the Eagles to appear. She heard Tempest and Elbren speaking.

"Are we done here?" Tempest asked Elbren.

"Yes," he replied, "See? The Eagles come and now we shall depart." Elbren spoke to them all, "take your vials and prepare for the return home. Praise Eru that we have accomplished our task despite what might have been disaster. I owe you all my life and I am ashamed at my weakness."

Each Knight took out their vials and, as the Eagles came clearly into sight and began their spiraling descent, each one drank the bitter liquid with anticipation for the journey back to Lothlorien. Idril waited until she saw that both Mirdain and Elbren had drank. She looked to the Lady Luthien and once again their eyes met and a voice sounded in her head.

"Thank you for your assistance. For all of your assistance. May Eru guide you along your path's." Then the liquid passed down her throat and she was transported back to the halls of the LothLorien Guild's Mural Room.

Parador~J

Parador watched as the Mithril Knights returned to the Fourth Age, one by one...She had summoned the House servants to bring herbs, food, fresh water to bath and a change of clothing. Ever since their departure, Parador paced the floors of the guild house all the while praying to EŠ for victory to be on the side of Beren and Luthien and the safe return of her comrades and friends.

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A 24 hour watch of Tomas was in place as Elbren had ordered. A few hours before the Mithril Knights began their return to the Fourth Age; Parador felt the need to go and check on the prisoner. From all that had taken place thus far, one could never tell what lay in the darkness. Tomas stood watching toward the dungeons entrance as Parador made her way through. She was caught off guard seeing him standing resilient..and even more unsettling was the fact he looked as if he were waiting for her to come...knowing she would be paying him a visit and welcomed it.

'You have come, good'

This was not the kind of greeting she had expected...her eyes rested on his gaze; locking them into place...not able to pull away from this encounter even if she wanted to, the Mithril Knight moved slowly toward him with the determination to find answers to her questions. She would not allow him the upper hand. Already she felt the power of his countenance pulling her in. Who was he really...

'you were expecting me...then I take it you have something to tell me'...Parador stopped within a yard of the cell's rusty gate watching him intently.

'yes, I do Mithril Knight. I know that I intrique you. You are a curious type. One who likes answers. I have something very important to share with you...perhaps even an offer if you would like'.

Her eyebrows furrowed in confusion and suspicion...'You speak as if certain that this information and offer you are about to make me will surely meet my needs...if...I were to have any needs that need to be met. What offer do you think you can make me that would to cause me to portray my oath of Feanore and to lose my place of friendships and trust?'

'As you know, your Lord Elbren and the other knights are trying to save the Tapestry by guiding the way for Luthien and Beren to complete their task to possess the Silmirils. But, we have in waiting other's who will thwart that tasks! They will take the Jewels of Feanore for themselves.'

'I ask you...to what great lengths would you strive to possess such a thing? Their beauty alone will take you to great heights much less to own them'

'How can I own them if I do not purchase them...steal,...take, does not make for ownership. Unless you are offering them to me for a price...perhaps my blood would suffice. You don't even have them secured in your possession and yet, you try to tempt me of unknowns. You are more a fool than I had thought.'

Tomas reached to grab her, but Parador stepped back...'You do not understand foolish knight!...we are taking the order of the Mithril Kights back!...it is you who will be wishing you had taken a hold of the Silmarils. You will change your mind,...only a fool would turn away from such an offer.'

Parador watched in contempt. His words alone left an uneasiness about her...'No more needs to be said Tomas. Your offer reeks of pestilence. I would be a 'fool' to take up your offer...and if you think me a fool for not taking the whole it...then let it stand.'

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Mirdain and Idril were the first to return, followed by Tempest and Aglanor...Elbren soon joined the rest of the knights. A relieved Tempest bade her hand to the Lord pulling him to his feet.

Parador still feeling Tomas' words twist within her, welcomed the Mithril Knights home. It was good to see them and be with them once again.

Elbren listened to Parador's tale of their imprisoned Knight of the Silmaril, Tomas. Elbren had slept well, long, and deep since their return from the Tale of Beren and Luthien. The Mural, contrary to what Tomas had told them, was now in complete accordance with known history. For all that Elbren could tell, the Tale of Beren and Luthien had been successfully salvaged from the attempts to steal the Silmaril.

"You don't seem too terribly concerned about the Knights rising again," Parador said.

Elbren looked up from behind his desk where he was sitting in the Lothlorien Guild House. He ran his fingers along the edge of the carved wood and thought for a moment.

"It's not that I'm unconcerned," he finally said, "it's just that I feel confident."

"Don't you think that they will try again?" Parador insisted.

"Oh yes," Elbren looked up at that, "I do indeed think that, my dear Lady Parador."

"And in the meantime?"

"In the meantime, we watch the Mural. If they alter the course of history, if the flow is disrupted, then we will know. And then we will act," Elbren assured her.

"So we must wait?"

"What choice do we have? We cannot possibly predict what or when they will attempt another theft--"

"We could if we looked at the anals. There are only a few opportunities when the Silmaril could have been stolen and --"

Elbren held up his hands, though he was smiling, "Alright then, if you feel that you can put together a timeline of opportunities for us to monitor, then by all means, do so. It can only aid us."

Parador finally smiled, the worried frown that she had been wearing for weeks fading away at last, and she took her leave of Elbren's chamber.

But, as soon as she had closed the door, the Guild Master leaned back in his chair and sighed. He looked down at his desk and saw the sketches of the same object, over and over, upon the parchment laying there. How many times had he drawn them since his return? Hundreds? They covered every page in his sketch pad in his room and now in his office chamber at the Guild House. He had not yet dared to sketch them at the flet that he shared with his wife and family...but how long before he no longer cared?

The Silmarils. They had awakened a yearning and lust within him that was both an elation and a darkness.

He would go and speak with Tomas...and risk the lure of the Silmarils once again...