Aglanor kept to himself after returning. He felt he needed some rest to put all his thoughts in order and prioritize. For a few hours he went through all his memories, starting with his first arrival at the guilds house. He had met new people, had faced new enemies and had seen the past unfold with him playing a part. It was enough to blow a man's mind. He didn't eben remember much from his youth. He figured it ahd been pushed back, by all the newer memories that entered his mind. He looked about the simple quarters. The heavy stone walls looked rough and ancient, as if this castle had been here since the dawn of time. The fireplace was opposed to the bed, and delivered a nice heat, which spread through the room. To his right stood a closet, with his clothes in it. A stand on his right held his armor. To his left were a small window and underneath it a chest. The chest held his valuables and his most prized possession: his sword Chaos. He stood up from the bed, and wearily made his way to the chest. He took his sword out, and unsheathed it. The blade was copper-red, and reflecting like a mirror. There was a sentence engraved in the blade: In the beginning as in the end, there's naught but Chaos. He remembered vaguely how he had found this sword once, in the camp of bandits. As they were out pillaging the small farmer communities, Aglanor and his brother has snuck into the camp and stole some of their loot. This sword was among them. Not something they'd have looted from the surrounding farmlands. He had kept the sword near him, since that day.

He stood up from the ground, and decided to practice his fighting skill a little. He'd gone rusty with all that travelling through era's. He needed some simple swordsplay to strain his muscles. He went outside, and took of his shirt and boots. He looked to the afternoon sky. Swallows were flying around, and the sun was bright as a candle. Despite the burning sun, it was cold. Winter had crept into Middle-Earth and once again, these lands were covered white. Concentrating on his practice, he got into position, and held his sword in front of him. Chaos felt heavy, but his grip was firmly in Aglanor's hands, and the balance was good. For two hours Aglanor worked himself in the sweat, doing swordforms. At the end his body felt tired, and his muscles ached, but it felt good. THe cold breeze countered the heat from the drills. Suddenly he started grinning. The grinning went to laughing, and within minutes he lay on the snow-covered earth laughing as if the funiest thing had happened. After awhile, he was quiet again, and looked around. Still it was silent, and no-one was within a few miles of him. He smiled and stood up. There were only two things left to do: A steaming hot bath, and a meal. With the snow crunching underneath his feet, Aglanor made his way back to the keep. All his depressing thoughts had been driven away, by something unknown. It had been funny, though......

Mirdain had stayed behind at the Lorien Guild House, taking care of some unfinished business there. His continued wish though was to be among the rest of the knights, and especially Idril. He admired the work she did, helping train and mentor new knights. He loved her for other reasons.

When a messenger informed Mirdain that it was time for the initiation of the four new knights, he was thrilled. He packed his travelling gear, and armed himself with a short sword and his father's old bow, salvaged from Sauron's destroyed Isle of Werewolves. The care of the Guild House was left to its capable servants. Mirdain also knew that the noble Lady Carnimiriel was watching over those woods, and he felt no qualms about leaving for a time. Besides, if he lingered long, the burning memory of the Silmarils, which had been only inches away, seemed to creep up on him. As he stood in the doorway, he couldn't help but reflect once again on the time when Idril had been his mentor, when he had been so eager to leave the Inn they stayed at and go meet Elbren. It seemed ages ago.

Days later he was at the doorstep of the Guild House at Edoras. The faithful servant Athelos greeted him almost before he knocked at the door. Entering, Mirdain only saw Idril and Elbren in the dining hall, but he couldn't tell if they were speaking. Feeling playful, Mirdain signaled to Athelos to remain silent, then crept as quietly as he could into the room. When he was close enough, he thought he could see tears on her face and was dismayed though he did not show it. He spoke loudly;

"No time for tears, dear Idril. We are here to celebrat!" And he gave his best disarming smile.

Elbren watched Aurandir as he left the room. Silence. The Mural dimmed. Together, Elbren and Idril snuffed out the candles and replaced the herbs and incense into their proper places.

"Are you alright?" Elbren asked when they were finished.

"No," Idril shook her head, "as a matter of fact, I'm not."

Elbren looked at her with concern and placed his hand gently upon her shoulder, "We can talk later, my dear friend, for I feel that your heart is troubled. I recommend that you rest for a few hours--"

It was then that Mirdain strode into the room with a merry grin upon his face and greeted them, though he drew up short when he saw the unreleased tears brimming in Idril's eyes.

"Mae govannon, Mirdain," Elbren nodded, "it is good to see you. All is well?"

"Of course," Mirdain assured him.

"Glad to hear it," Elbren looked from Mirdain to Idril and then made ready to exit the chamber, "I must go and see to a few matters; excuse me. I will see you both later to break our fasts from the night. Namarie."

The Elven Lord took his leave of the chamber and walked the quiet hallways to his room. He was tired but elated with the events of the night. He was wondering how the wolf had done without Rholarowyn when Athelos caught up to him near the library.

"Elbren, there's a messenger here to see you. I told him that you would not be available for a few hours, but he insists," she said.

"Who is he?" Elbren asked.

"A Dwarf from Erebor; he says his name is Falin," she replied.

"Falin?" Elbren frowned, "Falin Broadbeam?"

"Yes," it was Athelos' turn to frown now, "you know him?"

"I do," Elbren nodded, "I do, indeed. I will go and see him."

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

Shortly thereafter, Falin Broadbeam, a stout, young Dwarf who looked both road weary and slightly annoyed, greeted Elbren as the Guild Master left the Guild House and stepped into the chill of the predawn air. The streets of Edoras were dark and silent.

"I would be glad to see you if it weren't for the scowl upon your face, Falin," Elbren said as he closed the door behind him.

"I don't like bein' here and I don't like askin ye for help, but there's no way around it," Falin grunted.

"Are you asking me or the Mithril Knights?"

"I'm here at the request of the King Under the Mountain," Falin began to twist the braids in his long beard, "we have a very grim situation in the North."

"Drakes?" Elbren asked.

"I wish," Falin muttered as Elbren blinked in surprise.

"That's not very consoling, Master Broadbeam," Elbren managed to say and drew his cloak closer around him.

"We've had a series of graves being plundered, to be blunt," Falin said angrily, "several of our nobles and royals have had their resting places broken into and desecrated."

Elbren did not like the sound of that, "Any idea who or what?"

"They're very meticulous and smart; haven't left anything behind that might lead us to'em. But this last robbery has the entire region in unrest; or, it will once it's made public knowledge."

"And that is...." Elbren asked.

"The tomb of Thorin Oakenshield has been robbed. The Arkenstone is gone," Falin said quietly.

Elbren took in a deep breath, "I see," is all that he said at first, but his mind was awhirl with the repercussions of such a theft.

"The King asks that the Mithril Knights investigate the series of robberies before war breaks out...and believe me, Lord Elbren, there are some nobles screamin that the Elves stole it or that the Laketown Men stole it...or that we should be stormin villages and such trackin down the Arkenstone. The situation is close to chaos and the King is only able to hold down the ones yellin for blood because..well...because he's a good king. He asks that you come and oversee the situation before he loses that control and innocents start gettin hurt."

"I am weary from a long night and some days of travel, Falin," Elbren finally answered, "and I must speak to the other Knights about this as well. We have never declined a request for aid when the request is honourable, so we will not refuse this. Yet, say nothing for now for we are welcoming some new Knights in the morning. I will send a summons to the Knights and we will form a party to travel to the Lonely Mountain."

"We will be most appreciative," Falin said and meant it. "And mornin is not too far off." The Dwarf looked to the East.

"No, it's not," Elbren followed the Dwarf's gaze, "but I must rest, even if it's only for a very short while. Go and rest as well, there's an Inn nearby called The White Horse. Take a room there for now. I will find you on the morrow and talk to you more about this."

The Dwarf started to say something, but shrugged instead. With barely an audible farewell, he turned and walked in the direction that Elbren had indicated for The White Horse Inn.

Going back into the Guild House, Elbren was baffled. Who would dare to enter the Lonely Mountain and steal such a relic? How could they do this? What would they do with the Arkenstone? One could not sell it; it was priceless.

His mind buzzing angrily with these thoughts, Elbren somehow managed to lie down and finally quiet his mind. Even as the grey misty of false dawn crept into the sky, Elbren drifted off into dreamless sleep...

Tempest arrived late in the night, for she had been traveling for many days. The servant who opened the door blinked at her sleepily for several moments before recognizing her and inviting her in. She told him to go back to sleep, that she could fend for herself. He didn't argue, and Tempest soon found herself warming her hands by the fire in the quiet of the guildhouse. She was weary from travel, yet her unease had caused her to seek the Mithril Knights again. As soon as they had returned from Morgoth's throne room, she had left for wild places, wanting to be alone. Much of the past had been stirred up within her, and sought solace in the forests of the North.

Yet, even there, she could not find peace. She had heard rumors of strange things, for one who is acccoustomed with darkness senses things of darkness. Something was stirring in the Mountains of the North and she heard that the dwarves had sent a messenger to Elbren. She knew she would be summoned, and so she abandoned the forests and went South.

She did not stop to rest, and arrived only a few hours behind Falin, though she did not know this. Her body ached with fatigue, but her mind would not rest. She sat before the fire for many hours, staring into the red and orange flames. She finally succumbed to sleep, slumped over in the chair before the fire, her clothes still damp from the midnight ride and her hair untidy and wild.

When the first moments of morning light entered the room, Rho awoke to find Chirion resting his head on the bed, watching, and waiting, for her to wake up. Smiling at her companion, she realized that Erinhue must have returned him at some point during the night. Rho had attempted to retrieve the wolf on her way back from the ceremony, but when there had been no reply at his door, she figured the they'd gone off somewhere. She never knew that the door she had knocked on had been the wrong door.

Reaching out her hand , she ruffled the fur on the top of his head and said 'Good morning my friend. Did you enjoy Erinhue and Agarak's company last night?' The wolf responded with a look she knew all to well. 'OK let me lay here just a little longer and then I'll get up.'

Slowly Rho began to realize that she hadn't change her clothes from the previous night. Then, as she rolled onto her back she became aware that she still had her boots on, and that she had used her new Mithril Knight cloak to cover herself instead of the blankets on the bed. Finding this amusing she reached for the hood of the cloak and noticed a map of the night sky inside as well as the smell of incense still lingering in the fabric. Remembering her visions from the previous night, she was surprised that with these memories came an unexpected sense of peace instead of the pain that usually accompanied them. Finally, after a few more minutes of reflection, Rho rolled herself out of bed and began preparing for the day.

Twenty minutes later, Rho was nearing the kitchen and heard a woman's voice. When Athelos finally saw her, she was more than surprised to see the new Knight up so early, but quickly understood when Rho explained why. Handing her an apple, Athelos told her of a good foot trail that would make for a nice morning walk and how it wasn't too far from the Guild house. Thanking her for the apple and the directions, Rho then inquired about the time breakfast was going to be served and was happy to find out that it was still a few hours away.

As the new Knight and the wolf left the steps of the Guild house, the sun was just beginning to rise up over the distant hills. The two continued down the quiet road until Rho saw the bench that Athelos had mentioned. When they reached it, Rho quickly spotted the trail head and together they made their way over to it. Once they began down the path, Rho released the wolf and smiled as he quickly bolted off in search of something to chase. The path was in good condition and she briefly wondered where it ended.

When a half hour had passed, Rho came upon a rock ledge, and decided it would provide a nice place for a rest. After sitting down, she noticed the wonderful view overlooking the valley and could see Chirion running through the brush down below. Soon the warmth of the morning sun reached her and Rho felt an overwhelming sense of joy in her heart. Reaching into a long pouch, she pulled out her flute and begin to play around with a tune. Quickly she was reminded about her inexperience with the instrument, and cringed when she hit the wrong notes several times. However, the sense of joy did not leave her, and she finally she decided to express her happiness with some of the simpler songs that she knew.

Nurvilya was awakened from her stupor by a gentle knock on her door. With hazy eyes that felt as though they had not been closed in years, she slowly took in the scene that way layed before her. What had been last night a simple but comfortable room, now appeared as though a band of careless orcs had rushed through, destroying everything in their path. The matress had been slashed, and it's feathery innards were strewn about the room like blood from a fresh kill. The oil lamp had been shattered, leaving a dark spot on the floor where the thick fluid had leaked out, and the wooden door was splintered on the inside, though the gashes did not pass completely through the wood. Looking down at herself, she saw that her night clothes had been shredded and spots of dark blood were drying on them, though she could find no mark on her skin.

Frightened and confused, Nurvilya went to the small window, now broken, and examined the dawn sky. A shudder ran through her as she saw, there on the western horizon, the remnants of a full moon. The horrible realization of what she had done flooded through her. She flushed with shame, emabarrassed that she had lost her control at the time when she had needed to maintain it the most. Heavy tears began to fall from her eyes, when another, more persistant knock came at her door.

Wiping her face and trying to hide the wreckage behind her, the young woman grabben for her travel cloak and wrapped it around herself, then quickly opened the door. Athelos, the knight who had brought her to the room, was standing outside, waiting patiently.

"Excuse me, m'dear, I didn't mean to wake you," her eyes widened suddenly as she caught sight of the destruction the knight in training was trying to hide from her within the room. She stumbled to continue with her message, "Sorry, but, er, Lord Elbren sent me to, er, check and see if you were ready for the Initiation ceremony yet. Yes, er, that was what he sent me to ask."

Nurvilya's mind raced for an answer, she had nearly forgotten about the Initiation. She could just imagine the other Knights in training proudly wearing their Mithril cloaks and celebrating their success. Her shoulders felt cold and empty where her own cloak would have rested about them. She looked up at Athelos's surprised face as the knight was taking in the scene behind her.

"Tell Lord Elbren that I am not ready, but that I wish to speak with him as soom as possible." She shut the door abruptly, and a small splinter of wood dropped to the ground, skittering across the floor. With a small cry, Nurvilya fell to her knees and crawled to the dessimated matress, laying herself down in a pile of the innocently white feathers, waiting for Lord Elbren to arrive.

Elbren awoke to a firm and incessant knocking upon the chamber door. His mind was cloudy and filled with cobwebs, but he was able to pull himself out of bed and throw on a robe even as he wondered what was so urgent.

"Coming! I'm coming!" Elbren said loudly in the Common Tongue, and then in Elvish, "Auta i lome!"

He opened the door to find Athelos standing there looking a bit shaken, "I hate to wake you after only a few hours, Lord Elbren, but...well....Nurvilya, the Knight in Training whom you sent me to check upon...well..."

"Well what?" Elbren asked sharply. He didn't like to be held in suspense especially when he was expecting bad news.

"I'm sorry. It's just that. Well, Elbren, her room," Athelos stepped closer and lowered her voice, "her room looks like a tempest passed through it last night."

Elbren blinked and was about to say something when Athelos held up her hand, "Speaking of tempests...Lady Tempest arrived in the wee hours as well. She's in the Common Room."

"Tempest?" Elbren really was surprised at that. "Really?" He drew his robe closer around him as the morning chill became stronger. It was Tempest and Idril who had managed to coax Elbren out of Morgoth's Throne Room on their last quest. If not for those two...Elbren shuddered. If not for those two, he would either be dead or be a thief. He wasn't sure which was worse.

He shook his head to rid himself of the image of the burning Silmarils. He turned and walked to the fireplace and attempted to coax some life into the smoldering coals.

"Nurvilya would like to see you," Athelos continued, unsure if she had somehow offended the Elven Lord.

"Yes," Elbren nodded, "I will do that. Thank you, Athelos. Please make sure that the breakfast is prepared and we will join you shortly."

Athelos left as Elbren sat down heavily in front of the few flames that now licked at the firewood. Shame filled him to the point that he thought it would burst forth from his flesh. And yet, even now, the yearning for the Silmarils warmed his blood. He could feel the desire pumping through his heart.

I must never...never attempt such a thing again. He told himself.

Standing suddenly, he washed and dressed quickly. The Arkenstone had been stolen. Dwarven tombs were being robbed. The Mithril Knights had been asked to investigate. He would concentrate upon that.

And Tempest was here? In Edoras? Did she bring news from as well? Part of Elbren was relieved that his friend had come; part of him would find it hard to look her in the eye. She had been there. She knew what the Silmarils had done to him.

Closing the chamber door much harder than he had intended, Elbren strode down the hall with a grim countenance. He was a troubled soul, and it showed clearly upon his face.

He came to Nurvilya's door and knocked firmly and waited for her to reply. His keen hearing caught sounds of shuffling and movement and finally the door opened.

Pretending not to notice the disarray of the chamber, Elbren tried to smile, "Mae govannon, Nurvilya. You wished to see me?"

The woman nodded and let him in, directing him to a chair while she returned to sit upon her bed. Clearly, she had attempted to straighten the room as much as she could, but the broken window and shattered wood could not be so quickly repaired.

"Well," Elbren said, "tier undulave lumbule." When Nurvilya frowned at the Quenya, Elbren held up his hand, "Something troubles you." He looked around the room, "I sense...." He closed his eyes for a moment and frowned, "I sense much anger." He opened his eyes and looked directly into hers. "Tell me, Nurvilya, what troubles you so?"

Lord Elbren's knock on Nurvilya's door seemed to echo in her mind like a bell sounding her death. She could not bear to imagine the look of dissappointment on his face when she told him her tale. Nonetheless, she had no choice, and she could only hope that he would help her find her way again.

"Tell me, Nurvilya, what troubles you so?" His eyes looked straight into hers, and she felt as though he were looking into her past and all the pain and anger that lay there.

"I cannot explain to you, Lord, how ashamed I am of what has happened. I never intended for this to happen." She felt her eyes well up with hot tears at the mention of being alone again. She blinked them back, and began her tale.

"It happened a long time ago, about a year before your letter arrived for me. I was not always this way, you see. I was once a lady of Gondor, daughter of nobles, but I ran away when I was nineteen to escape the torment of my father, who used me as a tool of his twisted pleasure. I wandered Middle Earth alone for three years, stopping only at small towns to barter and steal what I could. It was in one of these towns that I recieved a gift from an old woman. It was a ring, inlaid with ammolite, a stone of the same sort as the one we unearthed in Orthanc's palantir room. She told me that the ring gave the bearer the power to change their shape at will into any sort of beast that roamed the Earth. She also gave me the prophecy that the ring would lead me to darkness if I misused it, but I passed the woman off as a fool and took the ring for myself.

Being afraid of the powers I now possessed, I allowed the ring to slip from my mind for a while. I met with a small band of travellers like myself, and I joined their group, hoping that survival would be easier with more pairs of hands and a greater number of bows to hunt game. We quickly became fast friends and began a journey towards Mirkwood together."

Nurvilya found the words flowing fast from her mouth, her mind rushing to keep up. She looked at Elbren, who sat silent in the chair across from her, and he smiled gently at her, as though encouraging her to go on.

"The trouble began with an attack from a group of orc-half-breeds mounted on Wargs," she continued, "we fended off the initial onset, but we would be unable to resist them again. To protect my friends, I revealed that I had the use of the magic ring, and volunteered to shift myself into wolf from to lead the attackers away. I was successful, butsince I had not been trained to control the use of magic, I tired quickly, both from the heat of pursuit, and from the magic-exhaustion I experienced. I shifted into raven form, and flew away from the Wargs, though I could not hold my shape for long. I fell from the sky as a human, onto the rocks on the east bank of the Great River. I lay there for three days until my friends found me again, and healed me of my wounds.

While I was recovering, we were hit by another orc-attack. Feeling the need to defend my friends, I grabbed for a sword that I saw faintly through my foggy vision. I had no idea that this was Neleg Amlug, the sword of my friend and comrade, SmaugsBane, or Dirk of Dale. I was immediately rendered unconscious by the intense power of the blade. We hurried off to Mirkwood, where I was saved from the surrounding darkness by the power of the elves. It was also in Mirkwood that the true nature of Dirk's blade was revealed. This was the great sword of the witchking of Angmar himself, bewitched so that only its true bearer could control it, and any other hand that held it would be sent to the dark side. We all learned then that Dirk was not who he thought he was. He was not the son of a man of Dale, but instead the illegitimate son of the Nazgul Lord himself.

All of us were then forced to decide where our loyalty lay, and most of us decided to follow Dirk wherever his destiny lead him. We set out for Angmar the next day.

It was on the third night of travel that the oddities within me first manifested themselves. The moon glowed full in the sky on that night, and I found myself shifting against my own will. I took the form of the wolf, and the bloodlust within me was too great to bear. I did terrible things that night, m'lord," she said quietly with a glance at Elbren, who remained as still and silent as a statue.

"I ran away from them in my shame, and I've been running ever since. That is, until I recieved your letter and began my training. When we arrived here, my mind was full of excitement about the Initiation, and I did not realize that the moon had waxed full again. Last night, as I lay in my bed, I was struck with the transformation. I lost my control and destroyed the room. I'm only thankful that sharp claws and strong jaws could not break through the door and cause worse damage outside."

She looked the solemn elf straight in the eyes, unaware of the tears flowing from her own. "I do not understand what possesses me each full moon, I only know that I pose a threat to all those lives that I touch. I do not wish to bring harm to a friend ever again, Lord Elbren, and that I why I fear I am not ready to go through the Initiation. I beg, Lord Elbren, that you give me council to find the help I need, so that one day, I may return and wear the Mithril Cloak proudly about my shoulders."

Her green eyes searched Elbren's noble features for a hint of pity, but the elf remained impassive, impossible to read. For the first time, Nurvilya felt the sticky tears on her face, and embarrassed by her weakness, she harshly brushed them away. It seemed as though hours passed before Elbren began to speak.

What Nurvilya took for impassive was actually solidified shock. As the Knight in Training told her tale, Elbren's skin began to tingle with both fear and anxiety. Nurvilya could not know of Elbren's childhood fear...no....phobia was a better word for it....of wolves. Wargs, to be more accurate, but wolves nonetheless. Rholarowyn's wolf companion had caused Elbren to reflect upon his fear and adjust to it in a rational manner.

But...werewolves?

The recent Guild quest to Tol in Gaurhoth had brought several of the Knights face to face with werewolves. Sauron's werewolves. Sauron HIMSELF in werewolf form.

Elbren tried very hard not to shudder. But...a werewolf?

Looking around at the room and its condition of disarray, Elbren had to swallow hard and smooth the front of his tunic to regain his composure.

And not only that...but the history of all of this also involved Dirk of Esgaroth, who was a newly petitioned Knight in Training.

How fate strangely binds us... he thought.

But when he looked up to see the hot tears upon Nurvilya's face, his heart softened and began to ache for her. Werewolves had their origin, if he recalled correctly, in fell spirits, perhaps even Maiar spirits, inhabiting normal wolves.

Keep reminding yourself of Rho's friend and how noble he is....not all wolves are Wargs....or werewolves...

"Well," Elbren finally said, "that is quite a tale, mellon." He tried to smile, but he knew it would be forced, so instead he leaned forward. "We must first find a way to keep you from harming others when the fell spirit comes upon you. For that, I must do some research. However, you were called to this Order of Knights as you are a noble, honourable being. Whatever it is that now inhabits your body, it is not you. You say it is linked to that ring. Perhaps...perhaps you might let me examine that ring as I know something of enchanted jewelry."

"What about cursed jewelry?" Nurvilya quickly retorted.

"Yes," Elbren nodded gravely, "that, too."

He stood up then and offered her his hand, "Come, I am still your Mentor Knight and sworn to guide you and help you. In this matter, too, I will do all that I can. Perhaps even my wife will be able to aid us in this. Are you willing to open your secret to her?"

Nurvilya sat in silent contemplation.

"Think upon it, and in the meantime, let us go and have breakfast with our new Knights. Soon, you will have your own celebration, I promise. Before night falls, we will find a way to prevent you harming anyone." Elbren paused and opened the door, waiting for her to join him.

Aglanor spurred his horse through the gates of Edoras. He had been in Rohan as well, but he needed a place to rest. However, the rumors that reached him one day, disturbed his thoughts. He needed counsil and he needed it quick, for the matter at hand was grave. Also he had heard of new Mithril Knights. He hoped they all passed the Initiation, but he would see for himseld, with his own eyes soon. He rounded the corner, getting his horse through the common crowd, without losing speed, and without hurting anyone. He stopped before the Guild House there, and tied his horse up. He went in through the kitchen and saw Athelos in the kitchen. Something had obviously disturbed her.

"Greetings, my dear friend Athelos. How fares this day? You seem troubled."

"Well met again, Aglanor. I'm glad to see you safely back. I'm not really troubled, it's just a matter, that's not very well known to me. For further information, ask master Elbren. He knows more than I do."

"I will, thank you. I've come to speak with him about a matter as well. Maybe it's one and the same. Are all the Mithril Knights gathered here?"

"I think we're missing a few, but most have allready come here."

"I'll greet them, when I see them. I'll be back soon. I haven't had lunch the whole ride."

He gave her a smile, and went on to the great hall. He saw old companions, and a few new faces. They had to be the new members of the Guild. Introductions can wait. Think of the matter at hand! He nodded to no-one in particular, and half-walking, half-running, he went up the stairs to search Elbren, and ask for counsel.

Tempest had awoken early and watched the sun rise with bleary eyes. She had finally forced herself to rise and seek out a water basin to wash her face so that she would be somewhat presentable when she met with her other Knights. She caught a servant in the hallway and told her to tell Elbren she had arrived, but the servant said, "He has already been informed, lady."

Tempest nodded; she had forgotten how efficiently the guild house was run. As she wandered aimlessly through several corridors, she caught sight of the dwarf Falin. His sharp eyes noticed her as well, and he looked startled, and not at all pleased to see her. It was whispered in the deep fortresses of dwarven stone that the Lady Tempest was particulary successful in extracting information from captured dwarves during her time in Mordor. While no one had ever openly accused her of it, the rumor was nonetheless present in Falin's mind, and his people had always regarded her with mistrust and sometimes even hatred. She had always remained silent on the matter, for the truth was far darker than they imagined. She had found that she could not bear the torture of elves, for something in their fair faces and the nobility in their stature always struck her painfully, as if speaking to the light that dwelt deep within her.

Dwarves and men, however, were much more easily corrupted.

All these things went through her mind as she approached the dwarf. Falin made a point of avoiding her, but she was persistant. "Master Dwarf, I would speak a word with you," she said.

"I have already spoken to the Guild Master, and I have nothing more to say to you," he retorted.

"Perhaps," she said quietly, her dark eyes never leaving his face. "I have come because I sensed trouble in the North, and seeing you here confirms it in my mind. All is not well in the mountains."

His eyes narrowed. "And how did you hear of this? From some of your spies?"

"You dwarves make so much commotion that it is hard to ignore," she said sharply. His face flushed with anger and she could see his fists clench tightly at his sides. She was feeling angry herself, though she could not place her finger on the reason. Perhaps it was the fear of seeing Elbren again after the incident in Morgoth's throne room, or perhaps it was because she was tired of being misjudged and mistrusted. Whatever the emotion, neither the dwarf nor she would back down. They stood, facing each other in the corridor, both angry and resentful, but for different reasons.

"I did not come here to be mocked, witch of Mordor! My business is not with you!"

"Of course it is, for I am a Mithril Knight after all. And before you retort with some angry rhetoric, tell me why it is that we seldom see dwarves around here, except when they need assistance. I suppose it is because the dwarves care little for Middle Earth and would rather leave it to the elves and men to do the dirty work."

Falin's face grew crimson with rage, for his temper had been tried long before this encounter. He was standing on the edge of a precipice, and now Tempest had pushed him over. Falin didn't even blink; he had a small axe out and charged her with the boiling hatred that makes a dwarf a dangerous adversary.

There other Mithril Knights within earshot of Tempest and Falin's heated exchange, but none of them expected the attack that the Dwarf initiated. Not in a Mithril Knight Guild House where Falin was a guest. Not in a Guild House full of Mithril Knights. Not in a Guild House where the Guild Master was currently visiting and Initiations had just taken place.

Yet, it happened.

Elbren and Nurvila had already made their way to the dining room and were conversing with Erinhue and Aglanor when they heard and sensed the commotion. The conversation halted as they all listened intently. Then, in unison, they bolted out of the room and towards the raised voices.

"What is going on here?!" Elbren roared as they turned the corner and saw the Dwarf being restrained by their comrades. A few feet away, Tempest was standing with a guarded look upon her face.

"Well?" Elbren asked again when no one responded.

"The Witch provoked me!" Falin finally spat out. "I canna abide her kind and why you would allow her the privilege of her rank within your Order--"

Elbren stepped to the Dwarf and glared down at him, "I am assuming that you drew weapon on her? SHE knows that the drawing forth of weapon is forbidden in our Guild Houses unless WE are attacked. I'm also assuming that since you should have left your weapons outside the Guild House that this was a weapon that you had hidden upon your entry into our House?"

The Dwarf said nothing though his face was a painting of pure rage.

"You have his weapon?" Elbren asked one of the Knights who had the Dwarf subdued.

"I do, Lord Elbren," came the reply.

"Search him for more," then he turned to Tempest and said in the speech of the Rohirrim, " We shall speak of this later. "

"Does this mean that you shall withdraw your offer of aid?" Falin asked icily, still eyeing Tempest.

"No," Elbren pronounced, "but it does mean that you shall be escorted back to your room at the Inn and no longer be allowed in this Guild House."

The Dwarf started to protest, and then, a strange look came upon his face, "And what if I claim my rights of House Guest?"

That halted Elbren with what he had planned to say next. The rights and guaranteed safety of a House Guest was a very old tradition and not one that just belonged to the Mithril Knights Guild. It was an old courtesy begun back before anyone could remember and it was still honoured in many cultures of Middle Earth.

As if to plunge an unseen dagger more deeply, the Dwarf continued, "A guest invited into one's house is guaranteed the safety and courtesy of that house's lord or lady, whether he is an enemy or no. If those rights are violated, then it is to the lord or lady to see that justice is done."

A silence, thick and oily, fell upon the group gathered within the hallway. Elbren cleared his throat and motioned for the Dwarf to be released.

"I see. Well...that means that our journey to Erebor will have to be delayed as a court must be held to satisfy your petition. That is," Elbren said without emotion, "if you wish to file this petition...formally."

"I can petition that the court be held in Erebor," Falin continued. "There are many who would speak for my honour there."

"And there are many who would stand against Lady Tempest and accuse her of war crimes that have no bearing upon the matter at hand," Elbren was barely able to hold his temper in check.

"Accusations that are TRUE!" Falin shouted angrily, fists clenched.

Elbren glanced back at Tempest who now wore a very hardened expression upon her face.

"Still, that is NOT the matter at hand, Master Dwarf," Elbren said quietly.

"How can you allow---"

"It is not for you to determine the ranks of this Guild," Elbren's eyes were now sharp at the Dwarf, "that will NOT be discussed with you or anyone who is not a member of this Order. I repeat: Do you wish to file formal petition that your rights as guest of this house were violated?"

"You will not hold court on the matter in Erebor? Even in your Guild House there?" Falin asked.

"The incident occurred here in Edoras. If we hold court, it will be here," Elbren pronounced.

"Then so be it. I petition the Lord or Lady of this house that my rights as house guest have been violated by the Witch of Mordor," Falin announced grimly.

Elbren caught Aglanor's eye and saw the same exasperation that he was now feeling.

"So be it," Elbren replied quietly, "Falin will be escorted out of the House and we will hold court on the morrow at the noon hour. We will have a meeting of the Mithril Knights in this House immediately after breakfast. Make sure that Master Dwarf reaches his room in safety."

The two Knights nodded and walked on either side of Falin as they left the House.

Elbren then turned to Tempest, "Well...were there any witnesses to what happened here?"

Elbren turned to Tempest, "Well...were there any witnesses to what happened here?"

"I know not," she replied. There was a slight pause as various glances were exchanged between the members present. Tempest sighed. "I am sorry, Elbren, for this trouble. I know you have much to do, especially with the new members being initiated into the Guild and now with the rumors of darkness in the North. I did not come to add flames to the fire. Had I known the dwarf was so hot, I would not have spoken with him."

"You spoke sharply to him?" Elbren asked, trying to ascertain what exactly had occured.

"Aye, we argued. But I do not understand, Elbren, what it is I am being accused of. I know somewhat of your custom of the rights of a House Guest, but I must confess I fail to see how I have violated it. I did not strike him." Here she paused slightly, "Though, if the other Knights had not arrived, I fear there would have been blood spilt between us."

"You, my friend, are not being accused of anything. Not directly. There is an old custom that is observed by many cultures in Middle Earth where any guest of a house is granted and guaranteed the right to safety and courtesy. The custom was first observed, it is believed, when negotiations would take place between warring peoples. It was the only way that the nobles and leaders would enter a house or building to pursue negotiations or treaties. The lord or lady of the gathering house guaranteed the safety and courtesy of everyone under that roof that was an invited guest. As long as they didn't themselves draw weapon or attack," Elbren explained.

"It seems to me that I am the one being accused, though," Tempest insisted.

"It will be your words and actions that will be challenged," Elbren nodded, "but it is the one responsible for this house that will answer for them."

"But wouldn't that be the House Steward?" asked Erinhue.

"It would be except that Freahelm is not here. My presence here, as Guild Master, must then be substituted for that role," Elbren replied.

"Well, he did bring a weapon in and he did attack her," said another Knight.

"Yes, and that will be brought into the matter, rest assured," Elbren frowned. "I wonder, in fact, if this whole matter is truly just an incident of circumstance."

"What do you mean?"

"Only that I wonder," Elbren replied, "and now we should go and breakfast together and then I must send some messages abroad about the situation in Erebor. I must also ask King Eomer for an Arbitrator."

"King Eomer? Why?"

"None of us can arbitrate the meeting; we are of the Order. Tempest and the Guild stand accused of violating the rights of a House Guest. It will be Tempest and I who will answer the questions put forth by the Arbitrator. That is why we must get witnesses if we can," he said as his brow furrowed in thought.

So much happening. Nurvilya's dark secret. The theft of the Arkenstone. The impending court.

"Let us go and enjoy the meal that has been prepared and celebrate our new Knights. I find it a sign of good counsel that so many of us have been drawn here for this occasion. Come," Elbren said as he began to walk back towards the dining room.

As Rho entered the Guild house after her early morning walk with Chirion, she decided to explore the halls of the building to gain a better understanding of the Guild she was now a member of. With the wolf by her side, she had been peacefully looking at some of the pictures that ran the length of a longer halls, until the sounds of a disagreement reached her. When the voices got louder and more heated, she quickly jogged down the hall towards the direction they were coming from.

Just as she rounded the corner, and stopped, saw the back of the dwarf, and heard him yell, "I did not come here to be mocked, witch of Mordor! My business is not with you!"

Since he facing away from her, Rho knew that he was unaware of her presence, but she did not know if the lady was aware of her or not. However, when she heard the woman's reply that she was a Mithril Knight, and then saw the dwarf draw his axe, Rho quickly moved into action.

Since she was not carrying a weapon, she knew that her only hope was to try and tackle the dwarf. Although she had never attempted to tackle a dwarf before, she was hoping the element of surprise would be enough.

As she raced towards the dwarf and then finally reached him, Rho threw all of her strength into knocking him down. This worked well enough to get him off balance and caused him to drop his axe, but she was not able to take him down entirely. Rolling on to the floor as the pain shot through the front of her body, she then she tasted blood in her mouth where she had bit down on her lip. Slowly she moved onto her hands and knees and then up onto her feet. When she was finally standing, she noticed that someone had picked up the dwarf's axe and some of the other knights were now restraining him.

'What is going on here?!" asked Elbren when he entered the room.

Rho listened as Tempest and Falin attempted to explain what had happened, and if she hadn't been struggling to regain her breath after having the wind knocked out of her, she would have answered Lord Elbren's question about about being a witness the first time he'd asked. Slowly though, she was able to regain her breath while she listened to Lord Elbren explain the procedures that were about to take place as the result of the dwarf's petition.

As the Elven Lord and Tempest turned to leave the room Rho motioned to Chirion to follow her and she quickly, yet painfully, followed them wiping the small amount of blood off of he corner of her mouth. When she finally reached the two she said. 'Lord Elbren, I'm sorry I wasn't able to answer your question sooner, but I was a witness to a part of the events that just happened. I came around the corner just in time to see the dwarf accuse the lady knight of being a witch of Mordor, and draw his axe against her.'

Before he could respond, Rho, who was still struggling to breath normally, reached out her hand towards the woman and said. 'Hi, you must be Tempest, I'm Rholarowyn, but please just call me Rho.'

Aglanor came down the stairs with Elbren and they all heard a heated discussion between Tempest and someone else. Aglanor judged by the words of Tempest, she was talking to a dwarf. Then they heard the sound of a weapon being drawn. Aglanor looked at Elbren, whose eyes darted open, and with a quick reflex he darted towards the door. Aglanor, Erinhue and the recently initiated Mithril Knight followed. They came in the room, and he saw a dwarf he did not know, another person behind the dwarf, with a tad of blood at her lips, and Tempest. Other Mithril Knights had come from other rooms at the sounds of the oncoming fight. Luckily nothing had happened.

Elbren was angry, that was certain. And so was the dwarf. Aglanor followed the discussion closely.

"I see. Well...that means that our journey to Erebor will have to be delayed as a court must be held to satisfy your petition. That is, if you wish to file this petition...formally." Erebor, huh? So the rumors were true. I wonder what the dwarf told Elbren about the troubles there. I must speak with Thranduil soon. The the discussion came to the point of the rules within a Guild House. Being a steward himself, he knew the house rules, and knew the dwarf was in the right to claim for a petition, but nonetheless he sighed. The dwarf had come here for aid, that much was obvious. So why, in Eru's name did he press this matter so? Surely, he can't believe this has priority over the troubles up North? He saw the Dwarf leave angrily, and Elbren lead Tempest to the other room, followed by the unknown female. A moment later the three appeared again, and Elbren lead them to the dining room. Aglanor went to the two new Mithril Knights and introduced himself to Rholarowyn and Nurvilya, and congratulated them with their succesful initiation. The banquet started, and people were enjoying themselves again. Aglanor was still troubled, though. Troubles in the North.... Why doesn't Thranduil take up contact with me? How are the elves involved in this? I must have those answers.

When Elenath awoke, she lay still for a few minutes, sorting through the thoughts and feelings from the night before. Most of it she pushed to a back corner of her mind: later she would have time to meditate on what she had seen and felt, but not now. She rose and dressed quickly, re-braiding her long, dark hair before she left her room. As she walked down the corridors, she heard a commotion in front of her, and quickened her steps. She arrived in time to hear the dwarf claiming the rights of House Guest, and halted at the edge of the group, listening with surprise and interest. She hadn't heard of this custom being invoked for a long time indeed. And she looked at the Lady Tempest with interest: were the dwarf's words true? But whatever was in the past, Elenath reminded herself, all that mattered now was that Tempest was a Mithril Knight. She knew of the need and desire to put aside past events - and of the pain caused by others who would not let them go. So Elenath put her thoughts from her mind, and followed Lord Elbren and the others into the dining room, determined to enjoy herself. She greeted Rho warmly, and Erinhue also, and replied with smiles and nods to the congratulations from her fellow Knights. The food that was served was excellent, as was the company, and Elenath found that she was indeed enjoying herself.

Tempest nodded in greeting to Rho. "I am sorry to meet you in such strange circumstances. Thank you for your help. I fear without it things would have turned out for the worse." She had a dark look on her face as Elbren insisted they all go down for breakfast.

"I do not like the fact that Eomer will be overseeing this trial. His opinion of me has never been very high. I would not like to see the Mithril Knights suffer for my past crimes, though I am ready to answer for them if I am asked. Elbren, I must warn you, though. It can not go favorably for us if I am questioned about my role in Mordor. Perhaps I should leave....." she started, but Elbren cut her off.

"You cannot leave," he said simply and she frowned slightly, but said no more. Instead she followed him down to the dining room, where the smell of hot food wafted in the air. She had no appetite now, but she forced herself to follow the others.

Elbren's appetite was absent as well; but, he ate and smiled, turning his mind from the worries upon it and finally finding true satisfaction in the camaraderie around him.

He could not help but see the worry upon Tempest's face; yet, she had to know that her Guild mates would stand by her and, as Guild Master, Elbren would never allow anything but the matter at hand to be discussed at the court.

That was when Rho leaned closer to Elbren and told him what she had heard the conversation between Tempest and Falin. She repeated what she had heard and Elbren frowned, though Rho misread the expression.

"Is this not in our favor?" Rho asked, "it seems to me that the Dwarf was the one who not only insulted but who also drew weapon."

"Precisely," Elbren replied, "that is not why I wonder at this. Why would he press the matter when clearly no etiquette was broken nor was he ever threatened by her."

Elbren and Rho were overheard by most at the table and immediately the conversation turned from the new Knights to the Dwarf's attack upon Tempest.

"Seems to me that he was just waiting for a reason to attack," grumbled Erinhue.

"It is certainly suspect," Elbren agreed, "let me tell you why he is here and perhaps that should be brought into the discussion as well. There has been a series of tomb robbings in Erebor, which is bad enough, but not completely odd, I don't think. What brought him here, he says at the request of the King, is that Thorin Oakenshield's tomb was robbed and the Arkenstone stolen."

"Oh now that's good news," Tempest rolled her eyes.

"Exactly, and of course, the Dwarves are ready to go to war over accusations that are being tossed freely about. Falin says that war has been avoided to this point purely by the wisdom of the King's own counsel to his people," Elbren explained.

"You know," Aglanor said, "how in the world would someone get into the tombs of the Lonely Mountain and out again without being seen? For that matter, why steal the Arkenstone? It's not like you could sell it or barter it without being marked as the thief."

"My thoughts as well, Aglanor," Elbren said. "Why steal the Arkenstone unless you wanted to stir up trouble?"

"Why not send a message to the Guild rather than a messenger? You could use messenger birds and it would be faster, would it not?" Rho suggested.

"I thought about that, too, Rho. The only thing I can come up with is that the King really is trying to avoid bloodshed and did not trust a written message to fall into the wrong hands," Elbren guessed.

"You think that this Falin deliberately baited Tempest or just a coincidence?"

"I don't know," Elbren frowned again, "I do wonder at that. I do wonder if we're not walking into something that has been well planned."

"His petition carries no weight. The Arbitrator will dismiss it as soon as he hears Lady Rholarowyn's testimony," Idril observed.

"Precisely," Elbren nodded.

"So, it's off to Erebor that we go, then?" Erinhue asked.

"I will ask for volunteers, yes, and we will leave in two days. I will send messages to each Guild House by messenger bird to see if anyone has heard anything of significance and to see if anyone is closer than we are and can get there ahead of us to get a feel for the situation," Elbren replied.

"How large a party will you take?"

"I will go," Elbren said, "and though we do not need a garrison, I will take all that wish to make the journey." His eyes turned to Tempest, "If you do not wish to go, I well understand. We will all understand."

"Okay, so what do we do in the meantime?"

"Let's do some research on the tombs in Erebor in general and on the Arkenstone. Let's formulate some theories on why this is happening and what one would do with the Arkenstone if one had it. That's probably a good beginning. We will meet again tonight to discuss what we've found. I must go to Eomer's court and speak with him on a neutral Arbitrator and then I have some errands to run in the Edoras market."

Elbren stood up then and made ready to leave, "Rho and Aglanor, why don't you take the Arkenstone angle and find out what you can. We can determine tonight who is going on this venture. I will see you all then."

Tempest sought solace in her room, away from the others. She felt like being alone, for she always thought better when she was by herself. She ran various scenarios over in her mind, rejecting each in turn. She kept replaying her conversation with Falin, chastising herself for getting sucked into it so easily. However, she kept coming back to the expression Falin had on his face when he saw her.

He had been genuinely unnerved by her presence because he had not expected to see her.

Well, wasn't that to be expected? The dwarves had never really liked her, she told herself. Yet, his expression had been more than just dislike. Something akin to fear had slipped into his eyes for a brief moment. Fear of what? Her? He knew she would not hurt him, so why had he been afraid? She frowned, remembering Elbren's words. Perhaps he was right. Perhaps there was something more going on here than just a simple grave robbery.

Then, a thought passed through her mind like fire. The one thing that made her different from her other Knights was that she knew the enemy intimately, and also knew the marks of enemy activity. If she were to investigate the tombs.....perhaps she would see that it had not been by the hands of orcs or other evil creatures that the treasure was stolen. At all costs, she must not be allowed near the desecrated sites. If she should accompany her fellow knights, the dwarves would cry "witch" and take her into custody. Or worse.

No, she would not be allowed within the Lonely Mountain. But there were other ways to find out information. She would consult with the Mithril Knights and bring her thoughts to them, for a sudden fear was creeping around her heart as she thought of the empty tombs and the missing Arkenstone.

Mirdain and Idril were deep in conversation in Mirdain's quarters. He was more than a little upset at the poor treatment of his friend and fellow knight Tempest, and at the poor turn things had taken since his arrival.

"I have to admit Idril, I have little experience with dwarves, save for the meeting with gimli we had in our quest for the shield of Gil-Galad. My opinion of them was formed largely from stories coming from my Lorien brethren, and those weren't good. This Falin has certainly done nothing to ease that opinion thus far. I've half a mind to confront him directly on the matter."

"You have a full mind, if I know you," Idril regarded with a smirk. "But for now, let's concentrate on getting the information Elbren wants. We can travel back to the Lorien Guild House for a few days and see if anything has been discovered there, if that's what Elbren wants."

"That's an excellent idea. We'll propose it at Elbren's counsel tonight."

"I am a little worried about Tempest though. I'm not sure how she'll take such a direct slap in the face. I'm going to find her. You can come if you want."

"Surely, though you're much better at talking to her than I am."

They found Tempest in her room, seemingly lost in that. "What is it?" she said a little coldly, without really looking at them.

"We just thought you might need a little help with uh, the task at hand," Mirdain stammered. "Do you want to be alone?"

Tempest was silent for a few moments, then answered, "I...prefer it."

Now it was Idril's turn. "Please try not to remain upset about Falin. I'm sure this inquiry will exonerate you, really. Rho is very trustworthy, Eomer will listen to her. Then, you'll be off on another adventure, this time to Erebor, and you can forget all about Falin."

"I won't be going to Erebor. I would be most unwelcome there."

"Then, if Elbren decides it's worthwhile for us to go, you are certainly welcome to come with Mirdain and I to the Lorien Guild House to try discover what we can."

"Hmmm, I do have things to discuss at this meeting tonight. We shall see. But...thanks."

Idril

Edoras Guild House - Mirdains arrival

She heard a voice on a cloud of mist that called to her of love and she turned away from Lord Elbren and faced Mirdain. She blinked, not sure she was seeing correctly and then noticed that Lord Elbren was taking his leave of her and Mirdain, leaving them standing in a darkened corner. Elbren seemed to have an errand to do or some such House business to attend to suddenly. He smiled and nodded as he left.

"No time for tears, dear Idril. We are here to celebrate!"

"Mirdain it is so good to see you! Cormamin lindua ele IIe!" and without thinking she threw herself at him and hugged him, smiling through the tears in her eyes and then looking up at him and deeply into his eyes. "You are correct, we are here to celebrate. Tell me, what is the news in LothLórien? How does our Guild House do without its Lord and Lady?"

"Very well. I have left it in capable hands. Hmmm ... I have missed you too Idril." he said before he returned the deep look and wiped her tears away with his hand and a light kiss. "Now let me see your beautiful smile and let's have no more tears while we are here. I have missed you and would like to take a nice long bath and then we shall take a walk in the gardens later if you like. I have some news from our Guild House to share with you."

Later they walked in the Gardens quietly, not needing to speak to tell each other what was on their hearts. Mirdain did shared the news with her of the Guild House in Lórien and that things were going very well there. He had asked permission to pick of the flowers and had a bouquet sent up to her room which she would find later on with a personal note from him.

She had to get out and walk in the nights cold, crisp air. It always helped to clear her head and help her to re-focus, which is what she did this night. When she returned she did so not only Veiled but cloaked in the Mithril Knights cloak and she was completely silent in her return to her room where she found the flowers and the note. She had hung her cloak behind her door and then dressed in leggings and a loose fitting tunic, she sat down to read the note but the day had worn her out. She was soon asleep as the candlelight danced on the walls and the moon light streamed into her room from the still open window as she lay dreaming of Mirdain and of Feanor and of Tuor, all in the same dream. The dream helped her to decide upon a path.

Falin the Dwarf and Lady Tempest

She woke and saw that she had not yet broken the seal of the note, a new seal that she thought she recognized but before she could open it there came a knock. She stood and went to the door, placing her cloak over her shoulders as she had become cold with the window open and the fire out. She opened it to Mirdain looking a bit worried as he had not heard her return. "Ah well there you are! I saw you leave last night and didn't see your return but then I dozed at the windowsill of my room too, so probably missed it. It is a beautiful morning and we have another of our Knights here, arrived late last night. Lady Tempest has arrived ... and some dwarves are here also. There seems to be a commotion arising."

"Good morning Mirdain. Shall we go see? I would like to see Lady Tempest again." and she followed him out of the door with her hair and cloak flowing behind her as they made their way quickly downstairs. There was raised voices and they recognized Tempest's but not the voice of the other, which was gruff and Idril was sure, a dwarf's. They turned a corner to just miss the dwarf drawing his axe but seeing Lady Tempest being attacked. They had been beaten by two other Knights that had come to the raised voice's before them. Idril had not even given consideration to whom the dwarf was and walked to stand beside Tempest to show her support for her fellow Knight. She looked at the dwarf and another memory came unbidden to her mind. She looked at the dwarf who was haughty with anger and she watched the exchange between Elbren and him. Though usually slow to anger, Never anger an Elf. And Lord Elbren's voice was reverberating throughout the halls. She watched while the dwarf was led out and their eyes met. There was something from long ago that she just could not put her finger on. So a court would be held to decide this unfortunate encounter. But first there would be breakfast.

Idril and Mirdain had stayed quiet, deciding that what they had witnessed would come out in the meeting that Lord Elbren had declared for after the breakfast. So Mirdain excorted Idril into the dining hall and they took their seats while Idril took notice of the other Knights that were present: Lady Tempest, Lady Rholarowyn, Lady Nurvilya, Lady Elenath, Sir Erinhue, Sir Aglanor, and of course herself, Mirdain & Lord Elbren. There was much talking around the table and a few of the Knights were eating well but some were not, their minds elsewhere after the recent commotion. The conversation started out with hearty congratulations to the new Mithril Knights but soon it turned to the events that so recently took place just outside the dining hall doors.

Once the reason behind it was given, and the explanation of what some had seen, Idril was sure that it would be thrown out of the court and voiced that opinion. But she still could not get the eyes and face of the dwarf out of her head. It was as if she knew him from somewhere and she just couldn't place him. When she heard his name, she couldn't place it any better and she became thoughtful and quiet. Falin. hmmmm ... she couldn't quite place it but it was familiar when placed with the eyes and face she had seen as the dwarf looked at her before leaving. (She decided to think of this a little longer before voicing her opinion.) She hoped to have it by tonight's meeting.

After the breakfast was finished, Tempest had made her way to her rooms and Idril had decided that she would like to see her friend and speak with her. So she had finished her meals, shook hands with the newer Knights as she made her way around the table and then took her leave as she looked at Mirdain and smiled warmly. She made her way up to Tempest's room and decided once there, that she was intruding. So she turned to leave but Tempest's door opened. Idril turned and smiled. At the same time, both Ladies spoke,

"May we talk?" and then they smiled and laughed slightly at the same thought, that was voiced at the same time.

Tempest was pleased that Idril had remained, for she felt the need to speak with someone pressing against her heart. She was usually not one to share her thoughts openly, but she was weary from the day's activities and her solitude had forced her to recognize that she prefered the company of others.

Idril came within and Tempest shut the door behind her. "So," she said, turning to her comrade, "What do you think of this new trouble I have caused?"

"It was not your fault," Idril began, but Tempest smiled wryly.

"Perhaps not entirely, but I was cross with him. Had it been you, you would not have allowed him to anger you," she said.

"Don't be so sure," Idril said with a laugh.

Tempest sighed. "I do not know what to do now. I fear I cannot go with the others to the Lonely Mountain."

"As we said before, you are welcome to accompany Mirdian and me to the Lorien Guild House," Idril continued.

"You think I will be more welcome there? I tell you truly, Idril, there are those who shudder when I pass, wherever I may go. I have never found peace amongest the elves or dwarves."

"And what of your own people?" Idril asked, remembering where they were at present.

Tempest shook her head and rose from where she was sitting. She stood and gazed for several moments out of the window. When she turned back, Idril noted with alarm the weariness that her friend had concealed from them. "I was not completely honest about my purpose here. I have been these long months searching my soul in isolation, trying to seek a path. But everywhere I go I feel his presence. I feel the evil that has been left behind. I cannot lie down to rest for I have dreams. Do you know that new Knight? The one called Nurvilya? I have sensed strange power in her, and I recognized the mark of evil."

Idril looked puzzled and alarmed all at once, and Tempest quickly reassured her that all was well. "But do you not see what I mean? I cannot escape it! Where shall I go, Idril, where the darkness cannot find me? It is always present, because it dwells within me. If Sauron were to come again to trouble Middle Earth, I would spit on his face, and then turn around and do his bidding. I am scarred beyond the greatest healer's power to restore! This new problem with Falin only reveals this to me more. It would have been better if I had...if I had..." here she broke off, as if searching for the inevitable words.

"Don't say it," Idril said with a strange fiercness. "Don't even think it. You are a Mithril Knight now and the past is as nothing."

"Nothing? Nothing! Ah, Idril, how can you, who are pure of heart, say something like that? The past affects us all. Look at the dwarves, all of them run mad over their lost treasure. And you can say to me that the past is as nothing? It is everything, and I cannot reclaim it! It has slipped through my fingers and left its flaming ashes to burn me after! Memory lasts for eternity!"

"Aye, and so does regret," Idril said softly.

Elbren dressed warmly for the chill Autumn day and donning his Mithril Cloak, he left the Guild House. His mind was a flowing mixture of thought and planning. With all that had happened...he saw a natural logic to it all, and yet, something unseen gnawed at his instincts.

There is something more going on here that what we have seen so far

His gait was determined as he made his way through the Edoras streets towards the small house that he sought. Nothing bothered him more than to know that something was amiss...and not be able to address it with suitable action.

Edoras was already awake and moving; the fair folk of Rohan passed him by, some giving greetings while others simply nodded or remained silent. Elbren took little notice of them as he left the gates of the city and made his way down the steep incline towards the village below.

The Plains of Rohan, spread out before him, were dancing in the chill winds, and behind him, the majesty of the snow capped mountains made for a magnificent tapestry. Elbren paused then and drank in the scene. Middle Earth. His heart warmed within him at the sight and he smiled. Knowing that the stars were above him, shining with the light of Elbereth, he took solace in knowing that they were never alone.

Before I become overwhelmed by my scattered thoughts...let me take them one by one... he told himself as he began his walk again.

In the village below, smoke was rising in grey wisps that were quickly swept away by the winds. Children were running from the houses out into the fields and Elbren's keen eye could see the fruit trees in the distance that they were apparently intending to harvest that day. Behind the children came groups of men and women, some with baskets, some with wagons, laughing and joking at the zeal of the children running ahead of them.

Entering the village, Elbren said hello to the harvesters as they left, and then quickly made his course to the small house near the well in the center of the small hamlet. He knocked quietly upon the door and was not surprised to hear the hoarse Enter, Elf! that came in reply.

He stepped into the darkened one room abode and nearly choked on the smoke that lingered from the fireplace in the rear.

"You should really get someone to clean out your chimney, Eilah," Elbren said, using the speech of the Rohirrim.

"You needn't impress me by using my own tongue, Chief," the old woman was crouching near the fireplace and was attempting to stoke the coals into life.

"Of course," Elbren continued using the language, for he knew that it pleased the old Wise Woman, "let me do that."

He gently helped her to rise to her feet and then began to work on the coals himself.

"I'll get some tea," Eilah said, smiling and revealing a toothless mouth, "have you eaten, Chief?"

"I've eaten, thank you," he answered as a small flame burst to life within the dark embers, "but if you have any of your butter bread..."

"Ah yes, butter bread," Eilah cackled, "I'll get some of that as well."

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

Soon, Elbren had a warm and soothing fire going in Eilah's hut and had even brought in several more armloads of firewood for her. In return, the old woman had set down a table of hot tea and butter bread and was awaiting the Elf to state why he had come.

"So," Eilah smacked as she tore off a piece of bread and placed it in her mouth, "what brings you down from the city, Chief?"

"I come seeking an herb," Elbren replied, watching her intently.

"There are plenty of markets in Edoras for that," she retorted.

"They won't have the leaf that I seek," he explained.

"Oh...hmmm....and what leaf would that be?" Eilah asked, leaning forward with interest.

"I need the leaf that you call Hide Leaf," he said and waited for her response.

"HIDE leaf?!" Eilah whispered vehemently, being careful to keep her voice low, "why would you want Hide leaf? That makes a potent brew, Chief!"

"I know," Elbren nodded, "but my need is great. I have a friend who must....who must be put into a deep sleep, but only for a few hours, so that her body cannot be awakened." He paused, "Not even awakened by Fell spirits within."

Eilah sucked in her breath at that and began to rock slowly in her chair as it creaked. "Hmm...hmmm...." she repeated, gnawing her bread and thinking.

"Eilah, I would not ask--" Elbren began to say.

"I know," Eilah said at last, "you would not ask if the need were not great. I know how you Elvish folk speak of such things. The Hide leaf will send the girl's spirit from her body until it wears away. But you know that..."

"I do indeed," Elbren nodded.

"Alright then, how much do you need?"

"Enough for a few nights at least, if you can spare it," he replied.

"I can do that," Eilah said, "and in return, you can get out there and hack me up some more wood. It's going to be a cold winter."

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

An hour or so later, Elbren had the Hide leaves safely in his belt pouch and was back up the hill in Edoras. He made his way to Meduseld and presented himself for audience with King Eomer. It took longer than Elbren would have expected, and he began to wonder if perhaps the King had quite forgotten him.

But, he had not. In fact, when Elbren was ushered into the Throne Room, he almost wished that he had not come at all.

"Lord Elbren, welcome, I am sorry to have delayed you, but we have had evil deeds this morning in my city," Eomer greeted, looking grim.

"Aye?" Elbren asked, noting that there were two Dwarves standing near the dais and looking, if possible, even more grim than did Eomer.

"Murder," Eomer nearly spat out, "at the White Horse. The traveling companion of these Dwarves was slain this morning, or so it seems."

Elbren's heart leapt into his throat but he managed to not reveal his new dread.

"That is ill news indeed," he said simply.

"The Dwarf's name was Falin. He was from the Lonely Mountain and had been sent here to see you, it appears," Eomer continued, "had you spoken with him yet?"

"I had," Elbren nodded. Why was he feeling so suspicious of these two other Dwarves?

"When was the last time that you saw him?" Eomer persisted.

"A few hours ago in our Guild House," Elbren replied, "he was quite alive. In fact, he drew weapon on one of my Order."

At that, Eomer's face changed from grim to surprise, "Indeed? Drew weapon?"

"He did," the Elf nodded.

"So there was a confrontation?"

"No," Elbren then shook his head, "we were able to disarm him and escorted him back to his room at the Inn. As I said, he was quite alive when he left."

"I see," Eomer looked from Elbren to the two Dwarves, "I shall keep you informed of what we find, Masters. In the meantime, I would like to speak with Lord Elbren in private."

The Dwarves were obviously not happy about being politely asked to leave, but they left nonetheless. Eomer gestured for Elbren to follow him into a small chamber and shut the door behind them.

"So," Eomer said as he stood by the window, "tell me what is going on?"

When the breakfast was over, and the Knights dismissed, Rho and Chirion made there way over to where Aglanor was standing. When they reached him, she inquired as to how they would like to begin looking into the Arkenstone. The two discussed several ideas for a few minutes until they decided that the Guild house library would be the best place to start.

Rho and the wolf followed Aglanor down the hall and when they reached the doorway to the library, the three entered the room. There was a large table in the center of the room with chairs around it, as well as two overstuffed chairs next to the window that was across from the door. As Chirion found a nice spot on the floor to lay down, Rho walked over to the bookcase located on the wall to her left, and ran her hand across the spines of the some of the books while she read the titles.

'There are some truly amazing books here.' She thought to herself.

Not realizing she had said it aloud, Aglanor agreed with her, and then directed her to check out the books further down the row.

As she moved towards the area the elve had directed her, Rho noticed the title of another book about the Numenorean Towers and pulled it off the shelves. Slowly she leafed through the pages and wondered if the book contained some information about Orthanc. She was pleased to discover that it did. Placing the book back on the shelf, she made a mental note to mention the book to Elbren later. Right now she needed to remain focused on her new task at hand.

After searching through several books for close to a half hour, Rho finally took the two books that she thought might be useful, went over to the table, and then sat down. Picking up the first book, she noticed that it discussed some of the more recent happenings in Middle Earth, but it also explained how these events were tied to the past. Setting it back down, she then picked up the second one and noted it was a book of Tales and Lore. Placing the book of Lore back on the table, Rho decided to look at the one that contained the historical information first.

Elbren told the full tale to Eomer including what Rholarowyn had seen and overheard. The noon hour passed as the Elven Lord relayed the story, but then the tale was done and silence fell upon the small antechamber.

"This is a strange tale," Eomer finally said gravely, "and now this Dwarf...this Falin...murdered. A dark tale indeed."

"I feel that it is all tied into the stolen Arkenstone," Elbren said, "somehow."

"I would not doubt it," Eomer nodded as he stared out of the window, his light hair now showing some faint streaks of gray, "but those matters are not for me. My concern is for the murder alone." The King then turned solemnly towards Elbren. "I will only ask this once, Lord Elbren, and then I shall not ask it again. Is it possible that this Mithril Knight of your Order...the one that Falin named as 'Witch', is somehow involved in his death?"

At first, Elbren's heart began to burn with anger at the suggestion. He himself bore a scar from his first meeting with Tempest and he knew, as well as anyone, that she was a deadly enemy. For that matter, ALL Mithril Knights would be deadly enemies. Yet, no matter what creature a Mithril Knight might bow to as King or Queen, the Order stood fast to their Oaths of acting on truth alone and never acting out of their own envy or pride.

Elbren's eyes met Eomer's evenly when he said, "I would wager my own life that no Mithril Knight, least of all Lady Tempest, took that Dwarf's life in the act of cold blooded murder."

"Good enough," Eomer said, and then shrugged as if he was glad to be rid of the testament, "then the matter lies within my own court. I would like to speak to the Mithril Knights who escorted Falin to his room this morning. I assume that soon you will be leaving for Erebor?"

"Yes, in the morning, I hope," Elbren replied.

"Very well, safe journeys to you," Eomer sighed, "I hope that the Dwarves and their stolen jewel remain in the North, as uncaring as that may sound, for we have troubling matters enough in Rohan."

With that, Elbren took his leave and made his way to the Guild House. He walked to Tempest's room directly and knocked rather loudly. He could hear the voice of Tempest and then the voice of Idril. He hoped that he was not intruding, but he wanted to inform them of the news about Falin's death...

Aurandir

'What?' There were few things under the sun for Aurandir, but a man ' a dwarf ' betraying the inherent trust he had as a House Guest was rarely done by honorable people, and he knew ' hoped ' that no dishonorable people ever appeared inside these walls.

'Aye, 'twas the very same reaction I had myself! To charge like that, and he looking like a madman. It defies reason. But, I best be going on now. Good day to ye.'

Aurandir shook his head and went down the hall, intent on finding more about what had happened. His thoughts raced around, like leaves blown by an errant wind chasing each other. He was extremely irritated and upset with himself; he had broken a long-standing habit, to rise with the sun, or shortly after it. And now he was utterly blind as to what had occurred earlier, had a paltry grasp on the facts. The only thing he knew was that a dwarf and another Mithril Knight had exchanged words, the dwarf drew an axe on the woman, and then was stopped by another woman. Heated words had followed. The dwarf, it seemed, had been invited here by Lord Elbren, making him a House Guest of sorts. It was all to be much of a muchness it seemed, until he got someone to tell him the whole story.

As he ambled about the large House, he realized that he didn't really know where he was, except that it didn't really matter, since he had no definite goal or personage to look for. Passing another door, he heard voices coming from inside the room, and decided to take a look. It was library, the House Library, if he was not mistaken, and inside were Rholarowyn, the woman he had been initiated along side of, and another man, whom he presumed to be a fellow knight.

'Hello Rho.' He smiled warmly at her, glad to see at least one familiar face. He bowed to the other man.

'And hello to you too. I am Aurandir.' He smiled again, then turned to both of them. 'Ah, owing to a case of, though I am ashamed to say it, one part extreme fatigue and nine parts laziness, I rose late this morn. A chatty maid told me of an incident concerning a dwarf, and I was wondering if you could fill in the gaps in my knowledge, or even tell me what happened from the beginning, albeit in shortened form.'

Mirdain, pacing the halls, ran into Elbren by the door he stood outside of.

"What is on your mind m'Lord? Idril is in there attempting to console Tempest, but I don't think they'll be much longer."

"I have some grave news, especially for Tempest, and I guess it will not help Idril's efforts.

At that moment, Idril appeared in the doorway. Tempest was standing further into the room with her back turned towards them slightly. Idril remarked, "Is there something wrong you two? I could here your voices."

Elbren replied, "there is indeed. The dwarf Falin is dead. Eomer informed me that Falin was murdered at the Inn where we left him. I don't know what the other dwarves told Eomer, but he asked me if Tempest could've..." Tempest wheeled around and stared at them, intense pain in her eyes, but not a tear. Elbren quickly continued, "Tempest, do not worry. I swore on my life that you could not have done this."

She replied, "you may have done yourself ill then. The dwarves seem determined to get me out of their way. No doubt they will find something to make me the killer."

Mirdain spoke. "You know we'll all stick up for you, Tempest. None of your fellow Knights would think for even a second that you could've done this."

Idril added, "that's right, so don't even think about blaming yourself for a second."

Tempest replied, "it is easy not to blame me for the killing, but how can I avoid blame for the hurt this case will bring on the Guild House, perhaps even the Guild as a whole?" She stormed out of the room and started down the hall. Idril moved to follow her, but Mirdain held her back saying, "Now's probably not the best time. There's no way to know everything that's going on inside her now. Maybe she justs needs a little time alone."

Idril began to cry softly. Mirdain moved to wipe her tears away, then kissed her on the lips. He squeezed her close knowing that, as unsure about everything as he was, he still needed to be her reassurance especially.

Elbren solemnly remarked, "I will make sure she doesn't leave the grounds of this Guild House at least. We can protect her best from these awful accusations if she is with us at all time, though she may not see it that way."

Rho and Aglanor had just finished discussing what she had found in the historical book and it's possible implications when Aurandir entered the room and greeted her warmly. She smiled back at him and introduced him to his fellow Mithril Knight, Aglanor, and then tried to briefly answer his question.

'Yes,' she replied. 'What you heard is true. A dwarf by the name of Falin, came to Elbren and asked him for assistance for trouble that is brewing near his home. But this morning as he was walking in the halls, he and Tempest, who is another Mithril Knight, met in the hall and an argument resulted. I came around the corner just in time to see him accuse her of being a witch of Mordor and draw his axe.'

Rho watched Aurandir's eyes grow more intense as she continued.

'Since I had no weapon upon myself, I attempted to take him down. Unfortunately I wasn't strong enough, but at least I was able to disarm him until a couple of other Knights appeared and were able to restrain him.'

Aurandir continued to listen as Aglanor told the new Knight about Falin's petition and how Elbren had gone off to King Eomer to discuss the situation and to get a mediator for the proceedings.

'What are you two doing now?' Aurandir asked, wondering if he could help in someway.

'Elbren asked Aglanor and I to find more information about the Arkenstone so we decided to start in here. Would you like to see what we were just talking about?' Rho asked.

When Aurandir nodded yes, she handed him the book and watched as he began to read the history of the stone. As she picked up the book of Tales and Lore, and began searching its contents, Rho wondered how much of the information she had just found on Thrain I, Thror, Smaug, Bilbo, and the Battle of the Five Armies, was really new to either of the Evles.

Tempest felt trapped. Before she had simply been angry with herself, but now she was incensed. The dwarf was dead! Her frustration with the situation was reaching its peak. What game was it that these dwarves were playing? She should have killed him when he attacked her the first time!

She caught her breath at the thought. No, she must not think such things. But had she not thought it before? Every instinct had screamed at her to react, and if Rho had not come.....

But she had come, and Tempest had NOT killed him. His blood was not on her hands. She thought of her conversation with Idril and flushed slightly. It had certainly been a strange day. Why had she not stayed in the North and ignored the urgency pressing on her heart? She shook her head and then walked purposefully toward the door of the Guild House. Well, she wasn't going to stay trapped here. At least she would go out for a breath of fresh air.

A guard at the door looked at her apologetically. "I am sorry, lady, but you must stay within."

Tempest stared at him in amazement. "What do you mean?"

"It is wiser for you not to go abroad, with the recent trouble," he replied, swallowing nervously.

"On whose orders?!?"

"Lord Elbren's."

A shadow passed over her face and she looked like the wind had been knocked out of her. "He has ordered me not to leave the Guild House?"

"For your own protection, my lady. There are those who may seek to do you harm."

She dropped her eyes. "Of course," she half-whispered. "As protection for all of us." She turned away and hastened back up the stairs to her room. She could hear the other Mithril Knights talking below her, but she ignored them and quickly packed her things. She was tired of talking. She was ready to leave. She didn't care that it would cast a blight on her name, for her name was already blackened beyond repair.

"Let them blame this murder on me. It would not be the first time I killed a dwarf, nor probably the last," she thought hotly. With a pang she remembered the oath she had taken as a Mithril Knight. "It's not as though I am breaking any rules. Elbren never actually ordered me to stay, and what do I care if they all turn against me! They never truly trusted me anyway, but always kept me at arm's length. I was never really one of them, so what difference will it make if I leave? They will shake their heads and say 'We knew she would eventually do something like this. She could never be trusted.'"

Even as she thought these things, she knew they were not true, but she ignored her feelings and quickly scaled the wall outside her window, dropping to the soft earth below. She paused for a moment, trying to decide where to go. It was foolish to flee, but she was caught up in her own bitterness, which blinds one's logic. "Perhaps I will go to Laketown and see what I can learn about this foolishness with the dwarves. After that, who knows? At least I won't have to deal with this suspicion and doubt any more. Good riddance to all of it! And to all of them!"

And with that, she turned a resolute face toward the stables to saddle her horse for the journey back to the North.

Elbren sat in his chambers alone and in shadow. His head was bowed slightly as he leaned forward in his chair. He reached over soundlessly and pinched out the one candle that had been burning. The light of the candle faded quickly and then darkness.

There were sounds throughout the Guild House of conversation and movement. Elbren was hardly alone; and yet, he felt as if he were so very far away. His hand strayed to his belt pouch and he thought of the herbs that he had gotten from the old Wise Woman. Would they work to subdue Nurvilya's demon?

He had wished more than once that he knew more about the dread werewolf spirits, but it did no good. He knew little enough and the library, at least this Guild library, had nothing new to offer.

He stood up suddenly: Tempest. With all her years in Mordor, she would be the one who just might have the answer. Elbren made the door in just a few steps, flung it open, and strode quickly down the hallway. Why hadn't he thought of this before? Of course Tempest would know; and even if she didn't know how to banish such a thing, she might at least know how to keep them all safe until they did find the solution.

"Tempest," Elbren said as he knocked on the chamber door, "Tempest, it's Elbren. I really need to speak to you, please."

Silence. Was she sleeping? Ignoring him?

He knocked again, "Tempest? I'm sorry to disturb you, but it really is important."

Nothing. No movement whatsoever within the chamber. Elbren started to open the door and then thought better of it. She might very well be sleeping and he didn't want to be the one to suddenly awaken her. Considering this, it was just as much respect for her dagger and reflexes as it was courtesy that caused Elbren to turn from the door and walk away.

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

"Nurvilya," Elbren said when he found the Knight in Training sitting in the Common Room, "may I speak to you, please?"

He motioned for her to follow him into the kitchen and then out onto the side porch of the Guild House. The sounds of Edoras were clearly heard and the Western sky was beginning to show the colors of an Autumn sunset.

"I have gotten an herb that I think might put your body in such a deep sleep that not even the werewolf spirit will be able to arouse you to action," he said in a low voice. "Have you tried this before or are you willing to try it now?"

He held out his hand and showed her a few of the dark leaves, "It is normally used in small amounts as a sleep potion, though even in small portions it is potent. What say you?"

After the conversation with Aurandir, Aglanor and Rholarowyn went back into the books. They had allready found quite some information about the Battle of the Five Armies, but the history of the Arkenstone itself, and its creation seemed to be non-existent. Cause Aglanor had a hunch that the days of the Arkenstones creation and the one who had created it, had something to do with this. The dwarves being divided into two different factions? The Elves taking back, what they think is theirs rightfully? He wasn't certain, and he could be very wrong, but he'd be damned to let this hunch pass away, when the clue could be vital....

The library door opened and Athelos entered. Her face was sad, and a bit shocked even. She walked to him, and the told the news of Falin. Aglanor listened in amazement.

"Do you know who did this? It couldn't have been Tempest, correct?"

"I don't think so. As far as I know she has been here all along. But no, the one who did it, is unknown. Maybe Lord Elbren will know more, and tell us when he returns."

"We will see. Thanks for the information, Athelos"

"You're welcome", she said with a smile. After that she turned to go.

"Oh, Athelos, one question: Do you know of we have any books about the creation of the Arkenstone, or the time it was created?"

"I don't know about that. This library isn't that big, so it could very well be the information you search is not to be found here."

"Ah, thank you."

Aglanor watched her go, and returned to the bookshelves. Nothing there with even a hint of the older times of the dwarves. How well did we know the dwarves anyway? Rho came to him with another book, and showed him some passages that went into the details of the Battle of the Five Armies. He read them carefully, but was unable to find any information, which hinted of a motive for this graverobbing. Aglanor was sure he was missing something important. But what?

It was approaching night when Tempest finally left the Guild House, and she was well on her way when the tragedy occured. Later, she would wonder why she had left in the first place and how theyhad known she would escape. She did not know this then, but she fled in deep bitterness of spirit. So distracted was she that she did not know she was being followed. Her face was downcast, but her horse was sure-footed and knew the way.

Until an axe was planted squarely in its powerful hind leg. Tempest's horse reared up in pain and surprise, and Tempest was nearly thrown. It took her a moment to realize what had happened, but when she saw the axe standing from the horse's bleeding wound and recognized its make, she immedietly drew her sword and slid down off its back.

It was dark, exceedingly so, and she did not know from whence the attack had come. She was only a few miles from the Guild House, and she more than a little surprised at the boldness of her attacker, especially in the heart of Rohan.

She felt a swirl of wind and had just enough time to put up her hand in defense as she rammed from the side. Her sword was nearly knocked from her hand, but she held onto it and swung it around to hit her attacker with the hilt, right in his face. She felt the warmth of blood on her hands and the dwarf gave a muffled cry of pain. She guessed that she had broken his nose, but it was impossible to tell in the darkness.

She heard hooves in the distance and breathed with relief, but her relief was short-lived. She felt a presence behind her and swung around, her sword ready. Two glittering eyes stared back at her, and they were wild with fury. Metal clashed in the darkness, and still the hooves in the distance did not arrive. She swung her sword and hit him hard, and he faltered, quickly shouting something to someone else who waited in the shadows. Without thinking, Tempest spun around and sliced the air savagely, and met with flesh and bone. A terrible cry rang out, and just as it did, the neighing of horses and the shouts of men came around the bend, bearing torches.

In the approaching light, Tempest could see the emblem of the Riders of Rohan. She quickly scanned the area to assess where her enemies had fled. To her surprise, there were two dwarves hailing the riders, pointing in her direction wildly. She studied the crumpled body before her, knowing immedietly that he was dead. She had stabbed him through the stomach, for she had swung low. Her sword was bright with blood, but even then she did not fear the riders, for she knew she was the innocent party.

The riders came closer, their swords drawn. She could hear the dwarves wailing behind them. "She attacked us as we were returning to the inn! She will murder us all! She's a witch! A murdering witch bent on destroying our people!"

Tempest laughed slightly at their words, but the riders who slowly circled her did not laugh. Their faces were grim. She flushed in anger. "The dwarves lie! They attacked me, and I only defended myself! What reason have I to shed the blood of such creatures?"

"Put down your sword," the captain ordered her in a calm, yet slightly menacing voice.

"I tell you, the dwarves lie!" she repeated emphatically, but the captain again ordered her.

"Put down your sword."

She faltered then, though she was very angry. Slowly, she released her sword and let it fall before her on the road. It was all so ridiculous that she wanted to laugh again, but the captain's dark eyes sent a terrible doubt into her mind.

And then she saw it all clearly. What Falin had been unable to accomplish in the Guild House, these dwarves had done. She had killed one of their number and badly injured another, and she herself bore only a few scratches and bruises. She realized that she had played perfectly into their plans, but it was too late to take it back. She saw the accusation in the eyes of the soldiers, with their hands on the hilts of their swords in case she should try to escape. She also saw the sneer spread on the dwarves's faces, as they knew she had stepped into the noose.

She felt the panic rising in her throat. Why? Why were they doing this? She did not understand! No! No, it was for distraction only. The Mithril Knights would be delayed in their journey to the Lonely Mountain if she was charged with such a crime. These dwarves were desperate, as Falin had been desperate. She suddenly wondered what grave evil had befallen the King under the Mountain that his people would try their best to assure that no help arrived.

Or, at least, not in time to prevent whatever was happening.

As Elbren and Nurvilya discussed the possible use of the herb tincture, the sun fully set behind them in the West and the city of Edoras began to settle down for the dark hours. Nurvilya had still not decided what she wanted to do about the herb when Athelos came to the porch and interrupted with a pained look upon her face.

"Lord Elbren, I am so sorry to interrupt," Athelos hesitated, "but there is a Captain of the Royal Guard of Rohan at the Guild House door."

Elbren's stomach tightened at the words and at the Knight's expression, "And?"

"He requests to see you and has a Royal writ from King Eomer with him," Athelos replied.

"We will continue this discussion later," Elbren said to Nurvilya and then quickly made his way to the main entrance of the Guild House. There were several Mithril Knights already gathered in the Common Room and apparently, by the looks on their faces and the hush that lingered, they were aware that something of importance had happened. The question was, for all of them, what?

"Lord Elbren," the Royal Guard Captain began as he handed a parchment to the Elven Lord, "we have in our custody the Lady Tempest, Mithril Knight. She is being held in King Eomer's antechamber in Meduseld for questioning in the deaths of Falin Broadbeam and Tharn Broadbeam and an assault upon Dalin Strongaxe."

Elbren blinked back his surprise and concentrated on remaining very calm and expressionless. The other Mithril Knights also stood proudly without betraying their dismay at the Captain's words.

"I thank you, Captain," Elbren said carefully, "may we be permitted to attend the questioning and speak to her in private as well?"

"Yes," the Captain said solemnly, "that document is to summon you to Meduseld and grants you the right to act as Lady Tempest's defense...if she is charged with the crimes."

"Thank you again, Sir," Elbren blinked again and handed the parchment to Idril, who had stepped closer to him during the conversation.

The Captain then bowed his head and stepped back through the door which was promptly closed. A thick silence fell upon the Common Room as Elbren stood motionless by the door.

"Obviously," he said, clearing his throat, "events have taken place that none of us are aware of. That being the case, we must be very careful in choosing our words and actions ere we speak to Tempest. Idril and Aglanor, please accompany me to Meduseld. Mirdain, Rholarowyn, Aurandir, and Elenath, please begin immediately to find out when and how Tempest left the Guild House and where she went. Be stealthy and quick as you can be. Erinhue, please go to the White Horse Inn and let's begin our own investigation of what happened this morning with Falin Broadbeam...where he was found slain and how. As Mithril Knights, we are now bound to keep our Oaths of silence in regards to the confidences given to us by fellow Mithril Knights. We will meet back here in three hours."

"And what of the Arkenstone?" Rholarowyn asked.

"I believe that the Arkenstone theft is at the very heart of this entire matter. For now, though, we will let them believe that we are focused upon Tempest's defense. Understood?" Elbren replied.

The Knights nodded and then hurried about their tasks...

Aglanor had frowned, at the words of the Captain. Could she have crossed the line? No, I refuse to believe that. She may not be the friendliest around, she's not careless. She would know better than seek a fight with the dwarves. So what did happen?

After Elbren had asked him to accompany him to Meduseld, Aglanor put back the books, he had been inverstigating, and walked towards Rho. "If you find anything about the Arkenstone, try to send word to me. I will see if Éomer knows more about the situation. Perhaps we can question the dwarves there as well."

As she nodded, Aglanor smiled, then turned and hasted out the front to get his horse ready. This was going unlike the way he had imagined it to go. What is going on in Erebor?

Mirdain, Rho, Aurandir, and Elenath quickly discovered that Tempest did not leave the Guild house in a conventional manner. Lord Elebren had ordered that she stay inside for her own protection and it appeared that she had disregarded his order. Elenath and Rho decided to check out her room, while Mirdain and Aurandir went outside to see what they could find.

When the four reunited, Elenath explained that none of Tempest's belongings were left in the room, and then the two Elves told the Rho and Elenath how they had discovered footprints below Tempest's window, which were most likely hers. It was then that the group decided that they would try to find the area where the presumed murder had taken place. Since the moon was just past full and had been up for about an hour, there would be enough light for them to ride at night as long as they didn't venture into any wooded areas.

Rho went back inside the Guild house with Elenath to get her cloak, and then went off to the stables with Chirion to have their horses prepared. Elenath was going to meet Rho in the stables after she had packed some items they might need for their short journey, as well as getting a few torches. Mirdain and Aurandir went off to see if they could discretely find our exactly where the Dwarve had died, and would then meet both of them back at the stables.

As Rho entered the stables she found the man who was in charge, sitting with his young son. The boy was completely enamored with the wolf, so Rho took Chirion over to where the boy was sitting, showed him how he liked to be petted, and then asked him if he would like to watch the wolf while she tacked up her horse. Her question was answered with an enthusiastic yes. So while the boy and Chirion quickly became friends, Rho told his father which horses needed to be prepared, and then she went off to tack up Tamir herself.

When she finally found his stall at the very end of the isle, she grabbed a brush, opened the stall door, greeted her friend, and then began brushing him. She had just finished cleaning out his feet when she felt the presence of someone behind her. As she slowly stood up, she instinctively she reached for her sword and placed her hand upon it.

'Don't move and do not turn around.' Came the whispered warning from the stranger.

Rho stood completely still but her hand remained on her sword. She heard the stranger take a few more steps until he was directly behind her. His voice was deep and when he spoke again, she knew that he was slightly taller than she was.

'You appear to be a Mithril Knight, yet I have not seen you before. What is your name?' He demanded more than asked, although he kept his voice low.

'Rholarowyn' was all she replied.

'And you've been a Mithril Knight how long?'

'One full day' she quietly answered back while she tightened her grip on her sword.

'That would explain it then...well your Knights seem to be having a little trouble at the moment don't you think?' He asked her almost jokingly.

Rho remained silent.

'Well I know of some things that might be useful to your Knights. Would you be interested in knowing them too?

Staying calm and waiting for several moments, Rho finally asked. 'Are you a friend of ours?'

'Sometimes,' was all he replied.

'And this time?' She asked in a confident tone.

'Well let's just say, Elbren knows of me, although it's been awhile.'

Rho listened carefully as he went on to explain where she and the other Knights would find a hidden Dwarve pack and how it could contain some things that the Knight's might find useful. Suspecting his story, she tried to find out more about the pack and how he knew about it, but he quickly cautioned her to be quiet. The last thing he told her was not to move until she heard the outside barn door close and then he slowly walked away.

She remained motionless until the door closed, then wasting no time Rho tacked up her horse, quickly led him down the isle and called to Chirion on her way out the main stable doors. When she, Tamir, and the wolf reached the outside, the other horses were tied and waiting, but there was no sign of Elenath, Aurandir, or Mirdain.

Tempest was amazed at the calmness which she felt deep within despite the injustice around her. She had been ushered unceremoniously into room after room until she finally reached the antechambers of the King of Rohan. Here she had waited with armed guards eyeing her with distrust, afraid that her every movement was an attempt to escape.

Yet, she had not lost her temper again. She had born all the disgrace with a measure of patience quite unlike her usual self. Apparently such a reaction was unnerving to her guards, who had heard rumors of her anger.

She had not even been allowed to wash the blood from her hands and clothes. All who saw her immedietly assumed her guilt, but she had not the words to defend herself. She HAD killed the dwarf and wounded the other. She had no defense, for there had been no other witnesses.

"The Mithril Knights will come to your defense," the captain had said, and she had winced slightly. She did not want to see any of their Order, for she felt shame for the trouble she had caused. She should not have left the Guild House. She understand that now.

"When they come, I wish to speak with them privately. It is my right," she insisted, though the captain had looked doubtful. Then he shrugged and left her. The dwarves were still nearby, as if they were afraid to let her out of their sights. The one dwarf's nose was red and swollen, and his face looked disfigured. His glittering eyes stared menancingly back at her. She smiled. At least she had a little revenge, for it would take weeks before his wound would heal.

She heard a commotion in the courtyard and knew before the messenger arrived that the Mithril Knights had come. She swallowed and tried to rub the blood off her hands to appear more presentable, but it was to no avail. Her hands were stained. Her cheeks grew crimson and she averted her eyes from the door.

She felt suddenly defiant and angry, and it was this expression that Elbren saw when he first entered the room to speak with her.

Elbren's stomach clenched into a knot when he saw the look of impatient fury upon Tempest's face. The dried blood upon her hands he saw next and he nearly stumbled when he did. He tore his eyes away from Tempest and shot them towards the Dwarves and then the Rohan guards.

"Is there a reason that they are here?" Elbren demanded when he stopped before the Rohan warrior.

"The Dwarves, M'Lord? Yes, that one is a victim and the other is a witness," the guard replied as he nodded to each of them.

Elbren studied the Dwarves with a keen eye; though the one who was injured held the gaze longer than his comrade, neither could hold it for long. They both looked away and said nothing.

"I will speak to Lady Tempest," Elbren stated, turning away from the pair, and added, "alone." When no one moved or spoke, he walked to the door and opened it. A thick tension settled upon the antechamber. Finally the Dwarves, closely followed by the guards, Elbren noticed, left the room.

Are they guarding the Dwarves as well as Tempest? Elbren wondered. What had Eomer said earlier about the Dwarves keeping their squabbles in the North? Perhaps the Rohirrim knew more about these Dwarves and the tomb thefts than Eomer had let on. Then again, Elbren and Eomer hadn't really spoken of the matter in any great detail. Elbren made a mental note to not let the matter be pushed aside when he next saw the Rohan King. He still had the feeling that the stolen Arkenstone was somehow related to all of the trouble with the Mithril Knights.

"Tempest..." Idril started to say and this snapped Elbren out of his thoughts.

"Ambush," Tempest said simply and began to pace the room slowly.

"You were alone, though?" Elbren asked. He frowned, "Why have you not cleaned your hands?"

"Because no one has bothered to give me any water," Tempest's voice was tinged with exasperation.

Elbren jerked open the door, startling the guard outside, and spoke sharply, "Lady Tempest needs a water basin and cloth brought in, please. Thank you." And then he promptly shut the door again.

"Now, you were alone?" Elbren repeated.

Tempest nodded.

"Ambushed, so somehow they knew, even when we didn't, that you had left the Guild House," Elbren spoke the words evenly and Tempest knew that there was an unspoken message in between them: ...Why did you leave the Guild House and leave without informing someone...anyone....

Tempest sighed but then only shook her head.

"Have they charged you?" Elbren asked.

"I'm...not sure, actually," she replied.

"There's something more going on here than revenge against the Witch of Mordor," Elbren stated flatly, "you DO realise that, don't you?"

Tempest narrowed her eyes, "What are you thinking, Elbren?"

"I'm thinking that Falin Broadbeam and his friends had no idea that I was in Edoras when he and his friends arrived," Elbren explained, "how could he? I had not planned to come here myself until just a few weeks ago. How did he know to come straight from Erebor to Edoras to find me?"

"Maybe he went to Lothlorien first?" Idril suggested, but she, too, had a look upon her face.

"We would have gotten a message from the Guild House there; Parador would have sent it," Elbren shook his head, "no, it's something else. These Dwarves don't want us, or at least Tempest, going to Erebor."

"In the meantime, I did kill a Dwarf," Tempest said. "In defense, but he's still just as dead."

"I've sent out some Knights to investigate," Elbren assured her, "and we will get to the bottom of this. Surely you know that the Oaths that we have taken as Mithril Knights are unwavering, Tempest. I know that you are being framed, the whole situation reeks of foulness, and the Guild as a whole is being taken to be fools."

Tempest almost rolled her eyes, but stopped her pacing instead. "Precisely," was all that she said.

Elbren was taken aback for a moment. Of course, that was why she was so upset. It wasn't just her that was on trial here; in a way, it was the entire Guild being scrutinized.

"I say again, our Oaths are unwavering. I do ask that you not leave again without at least telling one of us, though," Elbren's voice was low.

At that moment, the door opened and in came a page carrying a basin of warm water and some cloths draped on his arm. He placed the basin on the table and made ready to leave without so much as a word. As he came to the door, though, he hesitated and then bowed slightly.

And in through the door, came King Eomer and his Chamberlain...

After tying up her horse next to the others, Rho sat down on a bench and replayed the encounter with the stranger in her head. Her thoughts were interrupted when the man who had tacked up the horses only minutes before, appeared beside her.

'M'Lady may a speak to you a moment?' He asked.

Rho looked up at the man and smiled. 'Yes, certainly.'

He handed Rho a rectangular, brown leather pouch, that was slightly larger than her hand, and said, 'Actually I would like to show you this.'

She took the pouch from him, looked over the front and back, and noted that it's condition was quite worn and dried out. 'May I look inside?' she asked.

Nodding his head yes, Rho untied the leather straps and opened it.

Inside were several papers folded in half. She pulled out the papers, unfolded them, and then began to evaluate their condition. The outside pages appeared to have been exposed to water, and whatever had been written on them had been blurred beyond recognition. However, the two pages that were closest to the middle had been protected by the outer pages and they were still legible. Rho quickly scanned the words on both of the pages before her, and when her mind began to accept what the words were saying, she started over again, reading each line more slowly.

When she had finished reading them, she looked back up at him and asked. 'Where did you get this?'

'Up north a few months ago, actually it was my boy who found it laying on the ground beside the path we were on. I had taken him with me to go cut me some fire wood and we were on our way back when he found it.' The man answered.

'Has anyone else seen it?' She asked looking back down at the pouch.

'No one else except my son.' He paused. 'Well, and my wife. She can read quite a bit of the written word so she was able to figure out most of what it said. She actually tried to teach me how to read a little of it, but I don't have the patience for that kind of stuff. Is this important?'

'It could be. May I keep it?' she asked

'Certianaly M'Lady.'

Standing up, Rho looked back and him. 'May I ask you one more thing?'

'Yes, M'Lady.' He replied.

'Why did you bring this to me tonight?'

The man pointed down to one of the words on the page and said, 'You see this word here? Well m'wife says that this word is Arkenstone. Now we'd never heard of an Arkenstone before we'd read this, and to be honest, I had forgotten all about this pouch and these papers here, until this morning when I was in town and heard two Dwarves mention something about an Arkenstone. That's when I remembered I had this. Well, with all that's happening with the Knights and the Dwarves right now, I hoped that by bringing it to you, I might help the Knights in some way.'

Rho looked over the two pages again and knew that Elbren need to see them as soon as possible. Thanking him, Rho then asked if he could inform her friends that she would me back momentarily, if they showed up before she had returned. When he replied yes, she also cautioned him to keep silent about the papers and asked if he could ask his wife to do the same.

Making her way back to the Guild house as fast as she could, she and Chirion entered the door and quickly sought out Athelos. Finding her in the kitchen, Rho explained a little of what she had found, and then asked Athelos if she could get a message to Elbren, or at least to Aglanor, letting him know about the pouch and the papers it contain. The woman quickly agreed to go, but not before she found a safe place in the Guild house to store them. The two woman had agreed that it would be best if Athelos did not take the papers with her.

When the woman got her cloak, both she and Rho left the Guild house together. Rho and the wolf went back to the stables to wait for the other Knights, while Athelos headed off in the direction of the King's palace.

Mirdain and Aurandir councelled each other on the direction they should go in first to find where the battle had taken place. "It seems most likely to me that she would've made for the gap of Rohan, if she was trying to isolate herself from us."

"Are you sure she would go in that direction? Perhaps towards Mordor, a place she is familiar with, or Lothlorien where she might find refuge in another of our safe places?"

"I don't think she was worried about her personal safety as much as helping the group, to her everlasting credit. She must still be under the impression that we think her a burden."

"I hope that is not the case. If it is though, the Gap of Rohan would be a reasonable place for her to go."

"Indeed; she may even have thought to stop at Isengard. The powers in Rohan would be wary i'm sure of following her there, though Eomer is a brave man."

"Let's make haste then and search there first."

The two elves rode through the afternoon in the direction of Isengard and the Gap of Rohan. Horse tracks were every where, as was to be expected, so they decided to look for smaller pony tracks that would likely be made by dwarvish riders. Mirdain found a suitable trail a they used it. They were not even a third of the way there when Aurandir gave a shout. He dashed some fifty yards ahead and pointed to the ground. When Mirdain reached him, he noticed in the dimming light that there was blood on the ground, and plenty of it.

"Your eyesight is keen, even among the first born, Aurandir. I couldn't have seen this blood with the light as it is," commented Mirdain.

"Thank you. This is probably where the dwarf that Tempest killed fell," said Aurandir while pointing to an especially dark path on the ground.

"Yes, and look, here's a chipped piece of bone, probably from Tempest's horse. And here's a shard of metal, probably from the dwarf's axe."

"I see. It doesn't seem likely that the dwarf could've wounded the horse's leg in such a manner as this without that element of surprise."

"You're right. I feel I know Tempest well enough to know that nothing short of a large contingent of dwarves could make such a move against her without it."

"Truly. Notice the direction of these hooves, which we can assume are those of Tempest's horse. They face away from the spot where the dwarf seems to have fallen. That would mean..."

"That the horse was not able to turn around before it was subsequently attacked by the dwarf!" said Mirdain, finishing Aurandir's thought. "Let's gather in all the evidence and mental images we can, and swiftly report back to Rho and Elenath."

When they had done so, the two knights rode with doubled urgency as they made their way back to the Edoras Guild House. Night had fully settled in like a sleeping giant when they finally arrived. Rho waited for them in the stables, and each party began to talk excitedly about what it had found.

When Elenath arrived at the stables, Mirdain, Aurandir and Rho quickly filled her in on what they had each found.

"So they attacked her horse from behind," she mused. "But why? Were they truly trying to kill her, or were they planning from the beginning to falsely accuse her?" Elenath shook her head and turned to Rholarowyn. "And that stranger in the stable: I wonder who he is and how much he knows. And whether he is reliable. But reliable or not, we should at least check his story."

The others agreed, so they set off to find the hidden pack. The directions Rho had been given were to a spot just outside of Edoras, near the road but not too near. There was a distinctive-looking boulder, and as instructed the Knights searched the bushes at its base. At Aurandir's shout, the others hurried over. There, indeed, was a worn leather pack. Aurandir began to open it, but Elenath stopped him.

"I do not like sitting out here in the open: something is making me uneasy. It is my advice that we take the pack with us back to the Guild House, and open it there. Hopefully Elbren will have returned, and can see what we have found as well."

Elbren watched Eomer warily as he walked across the chamber towards him. Eomer's face was determined and his manner was distant. Yet, Elbren still had the uncanny feeling that there was some missing piece to the puzzle.

Eomer sat down heavily in a chair near the window while his Chamberlain stood close by.

"Your horse was injured very badly," Eomer's voice was deep and quick, "but, our best surgeon is treating the wound."

Elbren cut his eyes over to Tempest and then over to Idril; Tempest's horse had been injured?

"For the record, Temp--Lady Tempest has not been charged with any crime," the Chamberlain now spoke, "but we do need a statement from her."

"I would ask," Elbren interjected, "before we proceed any further, how it was that these Dwarves happened to be on the same road as Lady Tempest?"

"I suppose---" the Chamberlain began, but Eomer held up his hand.

"I have wondered that myself," Eomer nodded, though he still clearly did not fully trust Tempest and kept an eye on her as he spoke, "this morning they were stricken with grief over their slain friend, Falin, who they insist was murdered...and yet, they choose to travel, just the two of them, at night."

"Rohan is a safe realm, Your Majesty," the Chamberlain said gently.

"Even so," Eomer seemed annoyed, "it still seems strange to me that they would travel in the dark....like thieves or criminals."

The last sentence, though referring to the Dwarves, contained words that were also meant for Tempest, and everyone in the room knew it.

"You mentioned the stolen Arkenstone this morning, Lord Elbren," Eomer now stood up, "and that Falin had sought you out to deliver a message from the Dwarven King. How was that message delivered?"

Elbren thought that a strange a question, but he answered, "Nothing written, Your Majesty, Falin himself told me of the troubles."

"Do you not find that odd?" Eomer asked.

"Well," Elbren cocked his head, "I assumed that no written request was sent because the King did not want to risk the news falling into the wrong hands. Such news could very well spark violence." Elbren gestured to the window, "I do wonder, though, how he knew that I was in Edoras."

"Or why he came all of this way," Aglanor added.

"What do you mean?" Eomer looked puzzled.

"Typically, when someone requests our services, they take a message to the nearest Guild House and then the Guild sends it to whomever is appropriate. In this case, the Mirkwood or Erebor Guild House would have made for a much shorter and less dangerous journey for Falin and his friends."

"Hmmm," Eomer mused, "so, perhaps they came to Edoras for their own reasons....and then sought you out with the purpose of sending you to the North? Out of the way?"

"I don't know," Elbren shook his head, "but I do know that they are determined to see Lady Tempest under suspicion. Is that to keep her out of the North?"

"Or simply revenge?" Eomer again eyed Tempest warily. "Many believe that the Dwarves call you Witch with good reason, and I remember you as a formidable enemy upon the field," Eomer's eyes flashed and then he looked away, "nevertheless, things have changed. I am only interested in seeing justice and honour served--"

"As are we," Elbren interrupted, startling Eomer and his Chamberlain, "do not forget with whom you are dealing, King Eomer. The truth is at the heart of every action of a Mithril Knight. Truth is not always pure, and sometimes it is so bright that it blinds, but it is the truth that we, too, also seek. In all matters."

"Very well," Eomer conceded, "then I would ask that you delay your departure from Edoras, all of you, until this matter is settled. I have asked the same of the Dwarves. We will convene in my throne room on the morrow, one hour after noon, to hear the case and evidence that has been found."

With that, Eomer left the room with the Chamberlain in his wake.

Silence.

"We have work to do," Elbren finally said, "let's get back to the Guild House and see what news has come."

"Am I free to go?" Tempest asked with surprise, watching the departing King and Chamberlain.

"You are not officially charged, so they cannot hold you," Elbren said quietly.

Tempest shrugged, but the increduality never left her face. "It is strange nonetheless. But I suppose we should return to the Guild House."

Her voice had a dismissiveness that puzzled the other Knights, but her next words caused them to glance at each other with wariness. "We should leave immedietly for the Lonely Mountain."

"King Eomer has requested that we remain until all this business is taken care of. You heard that yourself," Aglanor said.

"To wait means that the dwarves have already won, for they meant only to delay us," she replied, with her back to them as she walked toward the door.

"That is most likely true, but we still cannot disobey such a request," Elbren said firmly.

"Perhaps Rohan is in on it too," she replied, turning her flashing eyes towards the others. "They know more than they say."

"You dare to say such things while you are still within the walls of the King's palace?" Aglanor could not contain the hint of anger in his voice.

"Enough!" Elbren commanded, and they all trailed out the door and soon found themselves riding back towards the Guild House.

Tempest was silent until they were nearly there, and when she spoke, her voice was low. "Elbren, you should send for Freahelm and let him resume his place here as Guild Master. He can deal with all of this nonsense while the rest of you investigate this new threat. I will stay here; I give you my word."

"Unfortunately, it would take several days for Freahelm to arrive and Eomer did not order you alone to remain, but all of those involved, which includes us. The matter is closed," Elbren said, and his voice warned her not to press him.

"However," Elbren said after a moment, and he lowered his voice and directed it toward Tempest, "I do not deny that some of your suspicions are my own. Eomer knows more than he is saying, of that I am sure. Let us speak of this with the others once we are within the Guild House. There is also another matter that I must speak to you about. Something totally unrelated but of great importance and concern to me."

"Oh?" Tempest said, her curiousity awakened.

"Yes," Elbren hesitated, "I will speak to you of it later, but it concerns..." He glanced over at her with wary eyes, "werewolves."

As Mirdain, Aurandir, Elenath, and Rho rode back towards the stables, Rho began the think back on the two men that had approached her earlier in the evening. The man who ran the stables had been open with his knowledge and willing to share all that the knew, while the other had been secretive and only willing to share what he wanted her to know. When she thought a little more about the stable hand, she realized that she had been in the right place at the right time. He was going to give the contents of the pouch to the knights anyway, and concluded that she must have been the first Mithril Knight that he saw. As for the stranger, there had been no explanation from him, and Rho considered the possibility that he had sought her out because she was a new knight and therefore would have been unable to recognize him, while a more experienced knight would have?

Then Rho thought back on how surprised she had been that Aurandir had actually found the pack where the stranger said it would be, having adequately prepared herself that they would find nothing there. Perhaps it was because she wanted to discredit the mysterious man in her mind, so she could easily dismiss him and his credibility. But she now realized that was not a wise thing to do and decided to wait until seeing the pack's contents, and getting Elbren's opinion, before forming anymore conclusions about him.

And then there was the story, a poem actually, written on two pages and safely tucked away at the Guild house until Elbren and the others returned from the King's palace. It told of an older history. A tale of the Arkenstone's earliest days and one that neither she nor Aglanor had read anything about in all the research they had done earlier in the day.

Just as the four knights were reaching the stables, one of the poems verses came to mind'

That a jewel so wondrous
Could bring tears to their eyes
Yet it's beauty was to kill for
Soon came the rumors, and lies

Well if the poem is true then history appears to be repeating itself. She thought just before she stopped Tamir and dismounted.

When Elbren, Aglanor, Idril, and Tempest arrived back at the Guild House, the hour had indeed grown late. To his own annoyance, Elbren found that he was not only tense but also short tempered. He strode down the halls and into the library after barking an order to the kitchen servants to bring food and drink for the meeting.

Once inside of the library, Elbren removed his Mithril Cloak and sat down in one of the ornately carved wooden chairs. He looked and felt haggard; and still, the mystery eluded them all.

Soon after the bread, cheeses, and wine were brought in, the rest of the Knights arrived. Aurandir and Rholarowyn were both carrying leather backpacks which were deposited upon the table before them all.

"What's this?" Elbren asked, leaning forward and eyeing the packs warily.

The tales were told of how one pack had been given to Rholarowyn by the stablemaster and the other found by the roadside, per the stranger's mysterious instructions.

"We've not opened that one," Elenath said as she pointed to the more worn of the two packs.

"Well," Elbren frowned, "Tempest has not been charged with murder...yet. And we both think that Eomer knows more about these Dwarves than he's telling. We have been summoned to the King's chambers on the morrow for a court hearing. I wish that we knew more..."

"Let's open the pack," Aglanor suggested.

"Yes," Elbren agreed, "let's."

Saying that, Elbren took the pack into his hands and unloosed the leather ties. He pulled open the closing flap and frowned again. Reaching in, he drew out a box that was carved with Dwarven Runes and made of dark, hardened wood. The lock on the box was broken, and so with some hesitation and care, Elbren lifted the top.

It was empty save for a velvet covering.

Placing the box on the table, Elbren searched the pack but found nothing more. Looking at his fellow Knights, he said simply, "The mystery deepens more."

When Elbren had finished searching the first pack, Rho then took out the two pages from the other pack and handed them to him. She watched while he first read them silently and then listened as he read out loud what was written on the pages to the rest of the knights.

In the early days of yore
T'was for the Elves alone
Answers sought in books of lore
To complete the Arkenstone

Though knowledge they'd attained
Their woods still something lacked,
So from the Dwarves they called for help
And together formed a pact

Their joining was unheard of
Unknown in later years,
Long hours each put into the stone
Yet once done, so many feared

That a jewel so wondrous
Could bring tears to their eyes
Yet it's beauty was to kill for
Soon came the rumors and lies

The Edain became aware
And they heard stories told
Of the great white enchanted stone
It's powers they desired to hold

So in their hearts they longed for
In thoughts they entertained
Until these men would find a way
In their grasp they could attain

Thus on one such summers eve
They reached the mountain hold
And removed the gem so precious
With the chests containing gold

Anger filled the Elves and Dwarves
Together they went forth
To recover their precious stone
From the humans of the North

On the fields of Thargelion
This battle did take place
The Elves and Dwarves they did prevail
Victory they did embrace

They journeyed to the castle
Seeking that which was theirs
Once in the human Lord's great room
The white beauty held their stares

On a cushion of red it laid
Resting before their eyes
But suddenly their hearts did change
New desires bred new lies

Would Dwarves or Elves bring it home?
Now neither side held trust
Once allies, but now fought as foes
Both sides gave into their lust

The dwarves had the greatest host
Prevailing from this fight,
But quickly they returned back home
Veiled in the dark of night

The Elves still in the mountain
Were soon thrown out and banned
Never to return there again
To the heart of Dwarven lands

"Wonderful," Tempest said aloud in her smooth, sarcastic voice. "This precious Arkenstone may be as dangerous as a ring of power. Though, I find it strange that we never stumbled on this information before. What in Eru's name is going on here!" she almost shouted, bringing her fist down on the table. The other Knights jumped slightly, for she was not given to outbursts.

"You must excuse me," she said apologetically after a moment's silence. "The situation is entirely frustrating."

"I think we all agree about that," Aglanor said.

"So, I say we find this "informant" who spoke with you," Tempest said, nodding towards Rho. "Perhaps he knows what used to lie within this empty box."

"Perhaps nothing," Elbren said.

"That is entirely possible, since the Dwarves seem to be trying their hardest to throw us off the scent. This could all be another one of their ploys." Tempest sighed, slumping further into her seat.

Elbren held the parchment for a moment longer and then dropped it onto the table as if it had suddenly grown hot.

"I, too, would like to find this informant," he said, and then to Rho, "Tell me again who gave you this?"

"The stablemaster," Rho replied.

"Why? Why would he give you this and why now?" Elbren mused, not really expecting an answer.

"He heard two Dwarves discussing the Arkenstone this morning...yesterday morning...." Rho shook her head and smiled, "I'm not sure if it's tomorrow yet, M'lord."

"And so he was reminded of this pack and the note that he came by...how?" Elbren asked, softening his tone.

"The pack was found in the North by his son."

Elbren grabbed the two packs and began to look at them more closely, turning them over and over until he finally tossed one to Aglanor, "See anything?" he asked.

"What am I looking for?" Aglanor asked as he examined the pack.

"This," Elbren said and held up the pack that he still had. Beneath his fingers was a symbol that had been either burned or engraved into the leather. A hammer and anvil, the sign of Durin's Folk, but upon the anvil was a single, lidless eye.

"Yes," Aglanor sounded surprised, "actually, it's here, almost in the same place but very faint. What is it?"

Elbren turned his gaze to Elenath, "You, too, were at the Last Alliance, Elenath. Do you remember the arms of the Dwarves who served Sauron? I do..." Elbren grew quiet, his eyes studying the symbol, "the Galadrim, led by Amdir and Amroth, confronted a garrison of Dwarves who carried the device of Sauron."

"Yet, there were some of Durin's Folk marching with Gil-galad and Elendil as well," Elenath reminded him.

"Yes," Elbren nodded, "All living things were divided upon that ghastly field, and some of every kind, even beasts and birds, were found in either host, save the Elves only." His eyes grew dark with the memory, "The device held by the Dwarves who stood against us was this one. The hammer, anvil, and the Eye."

Elbren looked over at Tempest, "Had you suspected this?"

Tempest said nothing but took the pack from Elbren and began to scrutinize it.

"This pack could not have survived all these long years---"

"No," Elbren replied, "but the desire to serve the darkness most certainly could have. It has to be Dwarves who robbed the tombs for who else could go unnoticed and commit such a crime?"

"And how are our Dwarven 'friends' here in Edoras involved in this?" Idril asked.

"Well, our mysterious informant told us where to find this second pack which has an empty and very ornate box," Elbren said.

"Which has a broken lock," Aglanor added.

"My guess," Elbren looked thoughtful, "is that the Dwarves themselves have quarreled and one of them took whatever was in that box."

"Do you think that one of the Dwarves killed Falin?" Idril frowned.

"Yes," Elbren nodded, "in fact, I do. I think that the Dwarves were quite surprised to find so many of us in Edoras and that set them to panic. They determined to send us to the one place where they would not be going: Erebor. Only," Elbren looked to Tempest, "Falin didn't count on Tempest being here. That rather unsettled their plans."

"Falin attacking Tempest delayed our departure," Elenath pointed out.

"Yes, and that is why he and his friends quarreled which ended in Falin's death," Elbren proposed.

"Which delayed our departure even moreso," Aglanor wasn't convinced.

"Thieves don't always act out of reason," Elbren pointed out, "especially thieves who carry personal items that are engraved with that," Elbren motioned to the symbol on the pack. "Their plan was a poor one, at best, and their reaction to their blunders has been disastrous."

"If you're suggesting that the Arkenstone was stolen by these Dwarves, then where did they take it? Why were they in Edoras with it?"

"The Arkenstone isn't something that you can just take into a market and sell, that is for certain. However, it is a jewel and very valuable. If you were to reshape it or even sell it in pieces, you would still be a very wealthy Dwarf when all was said and done. With all of the jewels that are being found nearby in the Glittering Caves, Edoras would be a most excellent spot to sell such items," Elbren was now staring into the fire and thinking. "However, if they didn't mean to sell it, they most certainly could use it to evoke a war."

Elbren pursed his lips and drummed his fingers upon the table...

Rho listened carefully to Elbren and considered all that he said about the Dwarves serving with the Dark Lord during the last Alliance and the symbol that was used my them. Since she, Aglanor, and Aurandir had spent most of their day in the library, her knowledge of both Elves and Dwarves had been greatly increased, but none of them had discovered anything that even hinted at the Arkenstone being made, or the history that was being told on the pages now lying on the table. And she noted that this was the first time she had heard anything about Dwarves serving Sauron too.

Glancing over at the Elven Lord as he then looked into the fire, Rho felt as though she had disappointed him. She began to replay her encounter with the stranger in the stables in her mind, trying desperately to figure out what she could have done differently to learn more about his identity. Why hadn't she turned around? Why hadn't she followed him after he left the stables? Why had she left Chirion back with the young boy? If he'd had been with her, the stranger would have never entered the stall unnoticed.

Stopping herself from continuing these thoughts, Rho reached out, picked up the two pages off of the table, and began examining them closely. After several minutes, Elbren asked, 'What are you looking for?'

'I was just seeing what else I could observe about these pages.' She paused, and then continued. 'I find it interesting that this poem is written in the Common Speech, yet it tells of a tale of the early days in Elven and Dwarven history. I was also examining the writing itself, and the paper it is written on. I do not know much about the history of writing whether it's the style of the letters, the instruments that were used, or the materials used to write on, but I was hoping that there might be some clues here on these pages, beyond the words themselves.'

Elbren looked intrigued with Rho's observations, so she handed the two pages back to him and waited while he looked over them again. Finally, without looking up, he asked, 'Tell me what you can about the stranger in the stables.'

'Well, he came up behind me, and told me not to turn around. So I didn't have a chance to look at him. But as I listened to him talk, I could tell that he was slightly taller than I am, so I concluded that he was either an elve or a human, and not a Dwarve. His voice was deep even though he spoke in a whisper the entire time. I also asked him if he was friend of the Knights and his reply was 'sometimes'. The only bit of information that he offered freely, other than the information about the pack, was that you were aware of him, although he said that it had been awhile.'

When she had finished, Rho looked around at the other Knights in the room and then she looked back at the empty box sitting on the table. Everyone seemed lost in there own thoughts for the moment, and she wondered what other clues there might be before them that they were all missing.

Elbren looked up suddenly from the parchment and scanned the room, "Where is Erinhue?" he asked, frowning.

"You sent him to the White Horse Inn," Idril replied.

"Yes, but he should have been back by now," Elbren's eyes narrowed. "This concerns me. Greatly." Elbren drew in a deep breath, "Aglanor, will you and Mirdain please go and let's be sure that Erinhue has not fallen victim to the Dwarves' malice towards the Guild?"

The light within the chamber began to grow and the Knights realised that dawn had come.

"Now that we have some light, I want the stables searched again and the stablemaster questioned to see if he can remember anything else," Elbren stood up, "we have perhaps six hours before Eomer's court."

With those words, and a hasty bite of bread, Elbren left the chamber and made his way to the stables. Once there, he stood quietly and let his keen eyes wander over the floor and walls.

"What are you looking for?"

Elbren jumped at Tempest's voice but then replied, "Anything. The stranger told Rho that he knew me...knew us...and that he was a sometime friend of the Guild. She said that his tone was easy...relaxed."

"So you have your suspicions of who this is?"

"Yes, I do," Elbren said as he stepped closer to a wooden beam where he thought he saw some recent etchings in the wood, "indeed, I do."

"Elbren, there is something I think you should know before we go to the council. I was not....completely honest about....what I mean is that I hadn't....."

Elbren paused in his searching of the stable and turned his face towards her. She swallowed and averted his eyes. "What is it?" he asked, afraid of the answer.

"I lied."

"About what?"

"About Falin."

"You attacked him?" Elbren said in disbelief.

"No, it's not that. I...I knew him," she said in a low voice.

"You knew him?" Elbren said in exasperation.

"It's complicated. I didn't really KNOW him, but I recognized him. He was familiar to me and I know he knew me as well. I would have spoken of it earlier, but then he was....killed and I thought better of it," she replied.

"Where did you know him?"

"That's just it, I don't remember. But when you started saying all those things about the dwarves in Mordor, I began to wonder if I had somehow seen him there. It is possible."

Elbren frowned. "What about the other dwarves? Do you recognize any of them?"

"No, but what do you want me to say when I am questioned about Falin? Shall I reveal what I know? It may complicate things for us later."

"Andelu i ven", Elbren said quietly and then he sighed, "if he knew you, then no doubt he fully intended to kill you. Why would that be? Revenge...or because you could prove him to be a liar and a thief?"

"I cannot know that," Tempest replied, "maybe neither...maybe both."

"You cannot recall from where you know him?" Elbren asked again.

"No."

Elbren shook his head and finally turned away from the wooden beam, kicking the toe of his boot into the dusty straw that was strewn across the stable floor.

"How do you know him?" Tempest asked.

"Hmm?" Elbren looked up sharply.

"You knew him; isn't that how he gained entry into the Guild House in the first place?"

"Yes...yes, he came late...right after the Initiations and asked to see me," Elbren mused.

"How do you know him?" she repeated.

"He said that he had brought a message from the Lonely Mountain..." Elbren's voice trailed into nothing. He glanced over at Tempest, and she was surprised at the guilty look upon his face.

"You know that I am a jewelsmith...not a particularly good one nor is it something that I have much time for anymore," Elbren finally said but then stopped.

"Yes...go on," Tempest tried hard not to show her impatience.

"Falin is a dealer in jewels and metals," Elbren continued, "I've made purchases from him before."

"Stolen goods?" Tempest blurted the question before she realised the words had even formed in her mind.

"Of course not!" Elbren snapped, "legitimate transactions, only a few, and several years ago."

"How do you know that they were legitimate transactions?"

Elbren's face turned a darker shade, "I....guess that I don't." And then he uttered a particularly vulgar curse in Elvish.

"Nice," Tempest said and then sat down heavily upon a bale of hay.

"We tell the truth," Elbren said.

"What?" Tempest frowned, having forgotten her original question to him.

"At Eomer's council...we tell the truth."

"I wish that we would just leave Edoras."

A shadow fell across the stable door at that moment and both Elbren and Tempest drew weapon, but then quickly disarmed when they saw Athelos.

"Interesting news," Athelos said, "the Dwarves are gone. They slew the Rohan gate guards, just before the changing of the guard at dawn, apparently, and have fled Edoras."

"When? Where does their trail lead?"

"Not long ago, they think within the last hour. Eomer has Riders dispatched. He has granted the Guild permission to join in the hunt."

"Then let us waste no time. Tell the Knights to saddle their horses and meet at the gates to the city; let us move swiftly," Elbren said and turned to go and saddle Erelas.