Meanwhile in Middle Earth CLOSED

[Stormrider]

Message 1 of 9 in Discussion
From: Illadria (Original Message) Sent: 1/7/2003 2:54 PM

"You know I'm easily confused Sparrow." said Illadria, gingerly rubbing her rear, which was sore from their landing. "Remind me again...what are we doing here?
Patient as always, Sparrow replied, "Remember when we were in the Prancing Pony at TolkiensRing discussing how those reckless Firstcomers have been wreaking havoc all over Middle Earth?"
Illadria shook her head slowly, "Yeah, but..."
"We decided we had to find them and put an end to all their silliness. It seems Rivers is on a mission to deflower every Elfmaiden in ME. And poor Karo6,... clearly he doesn't realize his danger in ME without RobedMerlin here to defend him. He could be killed! or worse!"
"I remember all that. I just don't remember how we got here."
"Oh yeah. I'm not really sure about that myself . All I know is that you said you were going to talk to RobedMerlin about finding a portal. I guess it must have worked. I haven't seen hide-nor-hair of him though, nor any of the others we talked to. Do you suppose we're the only ones to get through?"
Illadria didn't answer. She was distracted by a movement in the brush. Quickly and without sound, she drew her sword and pointed it menacingly at the bush. Then swiftly she reached one long arm into the briar and pulled a struggling Soleil out by the shirt collar.
Laughing, Illadria sheathed the small but deadly-looking blade.
Sparrow ran to Soleil and hugged her, but poor Soleil just stood there, blinking, too stunned at first to speak.
"What have you two done?" She finally asked. She glared accusingly at Illadria, but to Sparrow she said, "I've been so worried about you spending all that time at the Pony chatting with Illadria. I knew she'd get you into trouble. And now look! she's dragged me in too!"
"But..." said Sparrow, suddenly feeling dejected. "I thought you said you wanted to come to ME?"
"I never actually thought it would happen. I had no idea she'd involve that elusive dragon-lovin'wizard in this cockamamie scheme. If I'd known about that, I would've backed out."
"Soleil, I hope you don't really mean that. We need you here. Who else could convince Glor and Algy to return to TR with us? And what about poor AnnieLT? You may be they're only hope."
Soleil smiled warmly. "Nah. I didn't mean any of it. Those were just words the author put in my mouth. She has a wierd sense of humor, you know."
"Yeah. And a mean punch too." Sparrow said, rubbing her still sore jaw. "But now I wonder where she's gone to. Illadria? Hellooo?"
"Up here." Illadria called from a high branch over the spot where Sparrow and Soleil stood gaping up at her.
"What are you doing up there." Sparrow called.
"Shhhh." Illadria leapt down, landing gently in front of the two others. "I was hoping to see some sign of any other Aftercomers. If there are any, I don't want to start off without them."
"Well?" asked Sparrow, "did you see anything?"
"What about the Firstcomers?" Soleil asked. "Any sign of them?"
Illadria shushed them again and pulled them both toward the tree. Huddling between between them, she whispered, "I did see something. But not the Firstcomers or anybody else from TR." She paused, "I saw a Nazgul rider."
Sparrow clasped her own hand over her mouth, stifling the scream she felt in her throat.
"He doesn't seem to have noticed us, though." Illadria said. "I'm going back up for another look." She shot off and was gone before either woman could even utter, "Be careful."
An instant later she was back. "He's gone." She said, "Though I don't know where he went.""Whew! That's a relief." Soleil said, "We've got too many other things to worry about right now without him hanging around."
"Like what?" Illadria asked.
"Like, where are the other Aftercomers, if there actually are any? And how we're going to get back to TR?"
"There's another thing that's been bothering me." Sparrow said. She turned suddenly to Illadria. "Do you feel any different than when you were sitting at home in front of your computer?"
Illadria thought for a moment, "Yes, of course I do. It's all the excitement of coming here. I'm totally psyched!"
"That's not what I mean." said Sparrow, "Of course you're excited. We all are. I'm talking about the way you look. Do you always carry that many weapons with you just to sit at your computer? What kind of a neighborhood do you live in. You've got a sword belted to your side, a bow and quiver on your back, and at least 2 throwing knives strapped to your legs. Did you carry all that with you through the portal?"
"No, of course not. I..." she trailed off. She felt all around herself, taking stock of the various weapons and her uniform, which seemed to be woodelf clothing. She noticed also that her hair was hanging in several braids nearly to her hips, and that it was red.
"Wow! Oh wow!" she exclaimed. Then, "Oh wow!" again. "This is so cool! Don't you see what's happened?! I'm not just Illadria anymore! I'm Elennar!"
"I don't get it. Who's Elennar?" said Soleil.
"Oh nobody in TR knows Elennar." answered Illadria sadly. "But it's all my fault. I tried to tell her story, but I botched it by writing all the conversations in Elvish. And not just Elvish, but badly written Elvish. Nobody in TR could read it, not even Iarwain."
"Oh yeah. I remember now. You really should fix that you know."
"If I ever make it back there I will, believe me.

* * *

Message 2 of 9 in Discussion
From: sparrow Sent: 1/16/2003 9:42 PM

Illadria brightened, "Hey, Sparrow, you and Soleil have met in person before, but this is the first time I've seen either of you. Let me take a closer look. . ." Illadria carefully inspected Sparrow from head to toe. "Well, you're pretty short, but that's not surprising, for a small bird. I guess you picked up that dress coming through the portal." Sparrow was wearing an ankle-lenth dress, rose-colored vest and a green apron. "Too bad you didn't pick up some shoes to match," commented Soleil. All three stared at Sparrow's feet. "My what hairy toes Sparrow has," quipped Illadria. "Why, Sparrow's not a bird, she's a hobbit," exclaimed Soleil.

Nodding in agreement, Illadria turned her attention to Soleil. The graceful gown Soleil wore over her slender frame gave her a willowy air. Her hair, fawn flecked with silver strands, cascaded past her shoulders. Soleil's bright blue eyes, alert and inquisitive, seemed to gaze beyond the surface into the inner soul. Taking a step towards the bush from which she had initially emerged, Soleil wondered, "How did we get here, and how do we get back home?"

"You know," Illadria pointed out, "there's not much hope of getting back there, to Tolkien's Ring, until we figure out where here is. Anybody got any ideas?" The three ladies studied their surroundings. They were standing at the edge of a dark wood adjoining a hedge-enclosed field. Noticing rows of turnips, carrots, potatoes, and onions in the fields beyond the hedge, Sparrow exclaimed, "We're in Buckland! There's Farmer Maggot's place! Since it seems that I am a hobbit, maybe we'll find hospitality there." Soleil noted the fading sunset and the appearance of the first stars. "I hope so," she murmered, "as nightfall is upon us."

"Maybe he'll have news of the Firstcomers," added Illadria.

The trio turned towards the farming village. As they stepped out of the forest, a gleam of silver caught Sparrow's eye. "What's this?" she asked, as she stooped to pick up the item. Holding out a leaf-shaped brooch, she inquired of her companions whether either of them had dropped it. Illadria checked her woodelf clothing again, and replied, "I don't seem to be missing anything." Soleil regarded the brooch carefully. "It reminds me of something from Tolkien's Ring," she mused, "it appears to be crafted in the elvish style." "So it does," agreed Sparrow, slipping the brooch into her apron pocket. Once again, the three turned towards Farmer Maggot's home.

Upon reaching his gate, the travelers were greeted by a noisy pack of huge, barking dogs. Not far behind followed a short, stout figure. "Ho, Grip, Fang, Wolf! Back, lads!" commanded the hobbit. And to the travelers, "Who's there, and what business have you coming about at this late hour?"

Sparrow took a deep breath and stepped forward. "Farmer Maggot, sir," she began. . .

"Come now, that's me, and who are ye?" he interrupted.

"I'm Sparrow, and these are my friends Illadria and Soleil. We've just arrived in the area, rather suddenly, and managed to get caught out in the woods at twilight. We know you are a friend of Frodo Baggins. . ."

"That I am; come inside, then." At the mention of Frodo's name, Farmer Maggot's countenance relaxed. He opened the door and gestured for the others to enter.

"Thank you, sir," responded Sparrow gratefully. "Yes, thank you," echoed Soleil and Illadria. Farmer Maggot seated his guests around his generous fireplace, and Mrs. Maggot served everyone tea and scones. The visitors explained they had come from far off and that they were looking for their friends. They described the various Firstcomers to the hospitable hobbit and his gracious wife. "Have you seen or heard of them, sir?" asked Sparrow. "Oh. . .and we found this. . ." Sparrow drew the broach out of her pocket.

"Now, now, I can only respond to one question at a time,"chuckled the farmer. "Your friends? I've heard rumors of them. They seem to be having quite a time here. Made it to Rivendell, they say. No, I haven't seen them, though. They haven't passed closer to here than the Inn of the Prancing Pony. The brooch, however, I know a little more about. Another strange visitor passed through here not long ago. . ."

The Aftercomers gasped and looked at each other. "Maybe there is another Aftercomer," wondered Illadria.

"Just last night," Farmer Maggot continued, "and this visitor was looking for a brooch like that one."

Mrs. Maggot broke in. "The hour is late, and I'm sure our visitors are tired," she admonished her husband. To her guests she said, "Come now, take some rest. I've prepared a room for your slumber." The three visitors yawned, suddenly feeling very sleepy.

"Thank you for your kindness," Soleil smiled gratefully at the hobbit couple. "We'll rest now and talk more in the morning."

Tucked snugly into a large featherbed, the visitors almost forgot they were stranded in a world not their own. As they drifted off, Illadria surmised, "Maybe we should find the owner of that brooch before we go chasing after the Firstcomers." The only sound after that was the chirping of the crickets outside.

[Stormrider]

Message 3 of 9 in Discussion
From: Glorfindle Sent: 1/16/2003 11:28 PM

The inhabitants of Maggots cottage remained fast asleep as an unknown visitor crept slowly by the open window. The embers had died to a soft glow, so no shadows were cast. The visitor looked through the window at the bodies lying on the floor, and drew a soft breath. So close, so close. Moving toward the door, he whispered a soft incantation. The lock on the door fell off with a gentle clang.

The door creeked open ever so slightly, and the figure was inside, soundless, and at once the door closed, and all was still and dark. Illadria lay so innocent and sweet upon her pillow. The shadow ran over her sleeping form as it came upon her. Still, her gentle breaths were unchanged as she lay innocently dreaming, and the form bent closer to her, matching her breaths, and getting closer.

She awoke suddenly, and a firm hand was clasped over her mouth. Her eyes opened in terror, and her arms began to flail. Yet even through this struggle, her sight began to clear, and she understood why the strength that restrained her felt at the same time, kind and gentle. Her panting slowed, she began to focus her sight,she stopped struggling. It was Glorfindle.

"Shhhhhh" he said."I have much news, and not all of it is good, so listen, least we all be undone."..............

* * *

Message 4 of 9 in Discussion
From: Glorfindle Sent: 1/17/2003 11:17 PM

"I must speak quickly", he said. I am needed elsewhere, and time is precious. Illy shivered at the term 'precious', but resolved to be brave in the presence of so intense an Elf Lord with a mission at hand. "Glor" she began........."Hush and listen" said the Elf pressing a finger to his lips. Illy felt safe and knew to be quiet.

"Someone else came through the portal made by Robed Merlin". Illadria was startled by the news. "She is a great wizard named 'Majah' and the brooch is hers". "She and the brooch are the key to bringing the Firstcommers back home. Seek for her, find her at all costs!".

Glor went on to explain that the Firstcommers created a rift in time, and that if the brooch was not used properly, they would have no chance at returning home. Illadria's eyes grew wide at the telling. "Then we can help them!" she said.

"Yes," said Glor. "But there may be much cost".

Illadria thought for a moment, and her true courage started to imerge. "What must I do?" she said.

"Seek for the wizard Majah" Glor said. "And HOPE".

Glorfindle's form took on a strange glow, and he started to shrink and fade backwards. Illy rubbed her eyes, and when she looked again, he was gone. She looked around at the others still sleeping. Laying back down, her mind kept racing all night. It will be a long time until morning she thought.......

* * *

Message 5 of 9 in Discussion
From: Illadria Sent: 1/20/2003 3:20 AM

For several minutes after Glor left, Illadria did not move. She pondered all that he had told her about - Majah; the rift; the brooch. The Brooch!

Quickly she went to Sparrow's apron hanging from a peg on the wall and slipped the brooch from it's hiding place. Then, without sound or footfall she made her way out of the dark house and into the bright moonlight. In their houses, the dogs slept on, taking no notice Illadria.

"Surely this cannot be the brooch Glorfindle spoke of." She thought, examining it by the light of the moon. "It's just a brooch, plain & simple."

She turned then to go back in the house but was distracted by the far off sound of music and laughter brought to her keen Elf ears by the wind. Gazing in the direction from which the sound came she could just make out a very faint light - a soft glow.

A cursory search of her clothing yielded no pocket in which to keep the brooch safe, so she deftly pinned the brooch to her tunic.

First she walked toward the light, but soon realized it was some miles away, and quickened her stride to a full run. A little less than 4 hours after she began, she found herself at the edge of a wood. Stealthily she pushed forward. No longer did her ears behold the sweet sound that first spoke to her, yet the light still shone, though dimmer than before.

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

Suddenly she found herself surrounded. By instinct (?) her own hands went instantly to her bow and quiver, but upon seeing the guard, realized she was in no real danger and so instead lifted her arms up in a show of surrender.

A golden-haired Elf approached her. "Aiya, fair Elennar. Mae Govannen!", he said, and greeted her with his hand on his heart and a bow of his head. At this the guard lowered their weapons, and greeted her also.

"Aiya." replied Illadria as she returned the customary Elvish salute. "I seem to be at a disadvantage here. You know me, but I do not yet know you."

"I am Gildor Inglorion of the House of Finrod." He responded. "And of this merry band, some are my kinfolk, and all are my friends. And over there," he motioned into the clearing behind him, "sleeping peacefully are a small band of Hobbits. They do not travel with us, but stay only for this night. We are all here together, yet you travel alone. Tell me, why is it that you are in The Shire so far from Greenwood without an escort?"

"I travel without escort because there are few more capable than me in battle." She said, answering only part of his question. "What is it that brings Gildor Inglorion of the House of Finrod and his Merry Men into the Shire so far from their home?"

"Surely you already know the answer. But then, perhaps not. Not many from Greenwood have yet taken the journey."

Suddenly she was filled with an overwhelming sense of longing, mixed with both joy and sadness. "It is to the Grey Havens you travel. You will go then into the West - to Aman."

"Yes. That is our journey. Is it your desire to join us?"

"Not today"

"Then perhaps we will meet again in Aman."

"Perhaps."

She tarryed with the elves a while longer. As she prepared to leave, they offered her some lembas and a skin of mead. Finding she had no such provisions, she grudgingly accepted.

"Namárië, fair Elennar. Elen sila lumenn omentielvo."

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

Illadria returned the way she had come. Retracing her steps however, it occured to her that though she remembered most of her trek toward the wood, she had no clear memories otherwise of ever being in The Shire. She may not have even known she was in The Shire, had not Gildor told her. Intrigued, she continued in the same direction, hoping to have a clearer
understanding before she arrived (though, of course, she had no idea where it was she would arrive).

After a few hours, she saw Arien peering out in the Eastern sky, and yet she still had no recall. A short time later, however she came to a farm. Already there were several Hobbits working. The oldest when he saw her, stopped and waved. She had no memory of meeting him, but somehow he seemed familiar.

"Good morning!" she said.

"Good morning to you too." He answered, rather gruffly, as if his feathers had been ruffled. "Couldn't sleep I take it. Been on an adventure, have you? Well, nevermind that now. Go inside and get some breakfast. Your friends will be worrying about you."

"My friends? She asked, startled.

"Oh, don't worry. I don't think they've lifted their weary heads just yet. Seems you got back here just in the nick of time."

[Stormrider]

Message 6 of 9 in Discussion
From: sparrow Sent: 2/4/2003 4:03 AM

When Illadria entered the house, she found two hobbit women and an elf woman definitely awake and busy at work in the kitchen. The elf woman, pouring cups of juice, turned to the door as it opened.

"Where have you been? And what do you man, running off without a word?" Soleil’s accusing words were tempered by the note of concern in her voice. Illadria blinked, and before she could respond, one of the hobbit women approached her.

"You look a mess! How long have you been out?" Sparrow reached out to smooth Illadria’s clothing and noticed the brooch pinned to her tunic. "Let’s get you cleaned up for breakfast," suggested Sparrow as she deftly removed the brooch, slid it into her pocket, and slipped her arm around Illadria’s waist, turning towards the room where they had slept.

Illadria, not wanting to reveal her confusion, wordlessly complied. Sparrow poured fresh water into the washbasin and handed Illadria a cloth. Then, Sparrow took down Illadria’s braids and began brushing her hair. Illadria looked around the room and vaguely recalled falling asleep on the feather mattress. Laying the washcloth aside, Illadria took the brush from Sparrow, finished brushing, and quickly re-braided her hair. Turning from the mirror, she suddenly noticed Sparrow had left the room.

Returning to the kitchen, Illadria noticed the wonderful smells and realized she was ravenous. She hurried to help Sparrow set the table. Farmer Maggot, having completed his early morning chores, brought in an armful of mushrooms, and his wife sauteed them in the skillet. With everyone now assembled in the kitchen, Mrs. Maggot invited them to be seated at the table. Each of the ladies carried to the table a platter heaped with steaming hot eggs, bacon, mushrooms, or bread. Farmer Maggot brought a bowl of apples and a pot of coffee to the table. For a while, there was no conversation other than, "Please pass the bacon," or "Sugar or cream, anyone?" and the like, as everyone attended to sating their hunger.

Soleil was the first to speak. "Mr. Maggot," she began, "You mentioned another visitor, who was looking for the brooch Sparrow found." The bird-turned-hobbit fingered the jewel in her pocket. "Please tell us more about that," Soleil continued.

"Ah, yes," replied the farmer. "Another stranger. ." Mrs. Maggot gave her husband a reproachful glance. ". . .er - visitor - passed through here the night before last. My sons found the poor creature wandering around the edge of the forest."

"Hmmm. . .that is where Sparrow found the brooch," mused Soleil. A vision flashed in Illadria’s mind of the three of them stopping at the edge of the forest and Sparrow picking up the brooch.

"Is it, now," nodded Mr. Maggot, "well, my lads brought the wanderer here, who took refreshments but did not stay the night."

"But you have not given us any description of your visitor," Illadria, still not completely clear as to why she was here, pointed out.

"That is because this visitor was hard to describe. Quite a mystical one, that creature. Long hair, of a color hard to name, at times it seemed golden, at times silver. Sharp, piercing eyes that looked right through you, yet pools of depth. Dressed in a long robe, of a color like unto the hair, with purple hue. A being neither young nor old. I cannot even rightly say whether male or female, although I would have to guess female. Something about her reminded me of a fellow named Gandalf." Farmer Maggot peered at his visitors.

Illadria, Soleil, and Sparrow looked at each other in surprise. Even in Middle Earth, wizards, they knew, were rare and unusual beings, not really comparable to any other creature. Recovering herself enough to speak, Soleil ventured, "Did your visitor identify herself?"

"As a matter of fact, she did - unusual name - hmmm, let me think - Mag - no - Majah, I think it was."

"Majah!" Another memory pierced Illadria’s confusion, an image of Majah’s kind, wise face as Illadria recalled Majah’s artistic talent and generous spirit. Suddenly, Illadria was flooded with memories of Tolkien’s Ring and her arrival at the Shire.

"Majah! Defender of birdies! So she did come through!" gasped Sparrow.

"But how did she get here a day ahead of us?" murmured Soleil. Out loud, she queried, "Did she say where she was going?"

Farmer Maggot looked Soleil directly in the eyes. "She spoke a riddle, she did: ‘oldest and fatherless, to the forest I go.’" The party once again fell silent. Each of the visitors pondered Majah’s words.

After a few moments, Mrs. Maggot’s cheerful voice rang out, "More coffee, anyone?" Without waiting for an answer, she warmed everyone’s cups.

"No, thank you, Wife," Farmer Maggot declined, "The garden needs tending and the sun is climbing." He pushed back his chair, and, nodding at the ladies, excused himself.

Soleil stood up. "Mrs. Maggot," she offered, "Breakfast was delicious and most satisfying. Please allow us to clean up. With three, it will not take long."

Mrs. Maggot hesitated, then thought about her visitors’ reactions to the identity of the previous visitor. Realizing her guests could use the time alone in the kitchen to talk, she tactfully accepted and retreated to her herb garden.

Sparrow carried a bucket outside and pumped water, while Illadria scraped the leftovers into a bowl for the dogs. Soleil stoked the fire, and, when Sparrow brought the water in, began heating it to wash dishes.

"Listen, ya’ll, I had the strangest dream last night," related Illadria. "Glorfindle was here. . ."

"Our Glorfindle, from Tolkien’s Ring, or Glorfindel, of Middle Earth?" queried Sparrow.

"I am not sure," confessed Illadria. "He said Majah and the brooch are the key to bringing the Firstcomers home. He said Robed Merlin made the portal, and Majah came through it, and so did we. He said she is a great wizard, and we must find her at all costs. And he said there may be much cost," she added ominously.

Illadria paused. "Then, there’s more. I was outside, and I heard sounds, and saw a glow. I walked a long way, and came to a wood, where I was surrounded by elves. They called me Elennar and welcomed me. The next thing I remember is waking up outside in the yard."

"Have you ever walked in your sleep before?" Asked Soleil.

"Yes, once or twice," admitted Illadria, "but I never went outside before."

"And - strangely, you were wearing the brooch I found when you came inside this morning," added Sparrow.

"I don’t even remember putting it on. Very strange," Illadria affirmed.

"We really need to decide what to do from here. It makes sense to look for Majah. If we want to get home, we should probably stick together," suggested Soleil.

"But you heard what Farmer Maggot said," protested Sparrow. "It sounds like she has gone into The Old Forest to look for Tom Bombadil. And you know what happened to Frodo and company there," she warned.

"True, but they were four hobbits, alone. They did not have a wood elf with them," put in Illadria. Sparrow and Soleil looked sharply at her. "At least, I’m armed like a wood elf," she hastily added.

"We certainly have the benefit, from reading about their journey, of knowing what to expect," commented Soleil.

"Even if that is where Majah went, she may be gone already," argued Sparrow.

"I do not think anyone leaves Bombadil’s house quickly," Illadria countered.

"Good point," nodded Soleil.

"Listen, sometimes dreams are messages. Remember what Glor said in my dream?" asked Illadria. "Find her at all costs," she quoted.

"We really don’t have any other suggestions or guidance to follow," Soleil reminded Sparrow.

Sparrow hesitated, wanted to suggest an alternative but being at a loss. Either Bree or Rivendell would still take them by The Old Forest. Still, by The Old Forest was better than through it. "We could take the road to Bree, and in all likelihood meet up with Majah there."

The dishes were washed and dried and Mrs. Maggot was returning. "It seems we are all agreed in going east," decided Soliel. The others nodded, Sparrow reluctantly.

Mrs. Maggot entered the room, thanking them for cleaning up. "No, it is we who are grateful," returned Soleil, "and we must be on our way."

"Very well," replied Mrs. Maggot, "and we can supply some provisions from our garden." She handed them a bag of apples, mushrooms, carrots, onions and potatoes. "Remember, it is a dangerous business, going out the front door," she warned. She escorted them outside, where Farmer Maggot was leading a pony up the path.

"Perhaps this animal will be of use to you," he offered. The visitors thanked the hobbit couple once more and headed out toward The Old Forest and Bree.

[Stormrider]

Message 7 of 9 in Discussion
From: Illadria Sent: 5/28/2003 11:02 AM

By the time the sun reached it's peak, the 3 travellers realized with dismay that Farmer Maggot's farm was only a few miles behind them. Poor Sparrow's legs were much shorter than her companions and she needed to take frequent breaks for sustinance. Finally, she climbed on to the Pony's back. From this position she could easily keep up with the two elves and she'd be able to eat whenever she needed without having to stop.

As the day wore on they set an easy pace, chatting merrily in the manner of three very dear old friends. They spoke in awe about the beauty of the unspoiled land through which they travelled. They thrilled at the very concept of their being in Middle Earth. They each cried a bit as they spoke about their families still back in RL. And they pondered on all that they'ed already
experienced in ME and the possible implications. For a long time they did not mention the brooch, though all were thinking about it.

"It's dangerous, I think." said Sparrow, taking the brooch from her pocket. "It seems to be wrapped up in mystery and adventure. Two things any respectable Hobbit would be happy to do without."

Sparrow obliged only a little grudgingly as Soleil asked to hold it, but as she saw Soleil pin the brooch to her dress, she shuddered.

"Do you feel any different?" Sparrow asked.

"No. Not really. Healthier, maybe. I've felt healthy since we arrived here, yet now, I feel...I don't know...stronger, maybe...younger, impervious."

"You're glowing." said Illadria, a bit awestruck. "you seem very strong. Not as physically strong as me. It's more spiritual, I think."

"I wonder if wearing this affects you any differently from carrying it buried in your pocket." Soleil said as she pinned the brooch to Sparrow's dress.

Sparrow held her breath. Soleil and Illadria watched her intently.

"I feel nothing at all." she said finally.

"Nothing?" asked the others.

"Only hungry. It certainly must be time for afternoon tea by now, which means I'll have to dismount so I can boil some water for tea."

"Not yet." said Soleil, pointedly.

"Oh, right." Sparrow removed the brooch from her dress and pinned it onto Illadria's tunic.

Soleil and Sparrow stared at Illadria. Illadria stared back.

"Well?" asked Sparrow.

"Well what?" said Illadria.

"Do you feel any different?"

"No."

Sparrow and Soleil both sighed heavily.

"But, " continued Illadria, "I am a bit confused. Who are you? and how did I come to be in your company? You are friends with the old farmer Hobbit, aren't you?"

Soleil and Sparrow exchanged glances. Soleil reached for the brooch, but Illadria, sensing what she meant to do, quickly covered it with her hand. She looked piercingly at Sparrow.

"I remember now what happened. I hadn't even known I was wearing a brooch - some sort of talisman, I suppose - nor do I know how I got it. But I remember that when you came to me before, your little Hobbit hand darted swiftly to the brooch and suddenly I lost conscienceness. No, I'll not be giving it up quite so easily this time."

* * *

Recommend Delete Message 8 of 9 in Discussion
From: Illadria Sent: 5/29/2003 6:47 PM

Sparrow and Soleil exchanged worried glances.

"You have one opportunity to explain yourselves and the signicance of this talisman. If I'm not satisfied, I'll depart, though I am loathe to leave two helpless maidens without escort."

"Cute Illy. Now give me the brooch so I can put it back in my pocket. I'm not sure if we have time for games, though this is a pretty good one."

That wasn't what she wanted to hear, so making good on her threat, Illadria turned north and began walking purposefully away. However, before the others could even react, she returned suddenly and whispered into the pony's ear sending him flying down the road back toward Maggot's farm.

Looking northward and quickly fitting an arrow to her bow, she quietly instructed Soleil to follow Sparrow, who had flung her arms around the pony's neck, and was shouting uselessly for him to stop. Soleil paused only a moment as she watched the first arrow fly. High into the sky it sailed, gaining speed as it went until finally arcing and racing back down some hundred yards or so away before reaching it's mark in the belly of an orc.

Unseen and unheard, a small band of orcs had been walking on the road coming right toward the three women. Now that her eyes were on them, Soleil saw them plainly, yet before the arrow struck, she'd not noticed them at all.

"Run!" Illadria shouted. But it was unneccesary, as Soleil was already gone. After a few moments she met up with Sparrow who'd finally managed to get the pony turned around.

Soleil motioned for her to follow, but Sparrow didn't move. Soleil stopped also, and turned, expecting to see Illadria right behind her. What she saw instead made her heart skip a beat.

The orcs that had not yet fallen from Illadria's arrows, began to close in on her. As the first reached her, she slashed at him with the tip of her bow, dropping him in two swipes. Two more appeared on either side. Iron blades brandished as they moved quickly towards Illadria's midsection. Lightening-quick her hand's shot out and caught the hands holding the blades. She spun hard twisting one arm out of it's socket, kicking the dropped blade out of reach. Next she slammed her elbow into the other attackers jaw hurling it unceremoniously on top of the other. The two hideous orcs had time to squeal in fright before they were run through by the same sword. Loosing the triumphant blade, she upreared under her arm impaling the orc who had meant to attack her from behind.

At first Sparrow and Soleil were unable to move. The scene playing out before them was an eerie danse macabre, with a red-headed she-elf in the lead role. Time seemed to stand still, and all the players seemed to move in slow-motion. Sparrow heard each sound distinctly - the whooping and shrieking of the orcs, Illadria's low, barely audible snarl, the swoosh of her sword. Instinct, however, propelled them forward, and soon they had traversed the gap between them and the carnage.

Sparrow counted 6 slain orcs, though she knew more had fallen to the north. One orc still breathed, and Illadria knelt atop this one. A dagger through the palm of his hand pinned him to the ground. The elf spoke to him in some dark, ancient tongue. He laughed hideously spitting his foul blood on Illadria. She was unphased and repeated the words, which seemed to be a question. When he refused again to answer, she twisted the knife in his hand causing him to scream. He knew he would die soon anyway, but this pain was too much for him, and he finally spoke, saying only "Sharky". Illadria struck him on the head, knocking him unconscious, then rose up and withdrew her blade, wiping it on the orc's slimy uniform.

[Stormrider]

Message 9 of 9 in Discussion
From: Illadria Sent: 6/13/2003 3:32 AM

Sparrow leapt down from the pony and ran to her friend who was bent low to retrieve a fallen weapon.

"Illy! Thank God you're okay! We were so frightened. You could've been killed! What were you thinking?" She flung her little arms around Illadria's neck and embraced her.

Illadria pulled her away and started to say something, but stopped when she saw the look in the hobbit's eyes. She was deeply moved by the concern she saw there, and something deep inside her wanted to respond in kind. Instead, she sternly indicated that Sparrow should return to the pony, and after a quick sweep through the carnage she motioned to the others to follow her.

Soleil and Sparrow hung back a bit, speaking in hushed tones. "She could've been killed!"...Did you see?- She just pushed me away."..."What's happened to her?"... "It's like she's become...oh!...oh!...of course!... that's it!...Oh no....this is terrible."

"Sparrow!...What are you talking about?...What has she become?"

"Not a what, a who. She said it herself when we first arrived here. Remember? She said 'I'm not just Illadria anymore! I'm Elennar.' . So, either Illy's gone completely around the loony bend, or she really has become Elennar."

"What happens to Illy if we don't get the brooch away from her?"

As Illadria marched ahead, alert and at the ready, the other two followed several paces behind planning a way to retrieve the brooch, but ultimately dismissing every contrivance.

An hour after they'ed left the last stiff orc behind, Sparrow called out, "We'll need to stop soon. This pony needs a break. And so does my weary backside."

Illadria seemed not to hear her at all, and continued her reconnaissance.

"Hey! Didn't you hear me? I said we need to stop!"

"She heard you." intoned Soleil.

"How do you know?"

"Because I can hear her. She's been singing almost since we began."

"I haven't heard anything."

"Hobbit ears, though keen, are not as acute as Elf ears."

"What's she singing?"

"I don't know. It's in Elvish."

Soon Illadria led them to a grove a few yards off the road, and disappeared to the other side. As Sparrow and Soleil gathered firewood, their thoughts turned elsewhere.

"How could there be orcs in the Shire?" Sparrow wondered.

"Sharky. That's what that orc said to Illy."

"But that can't be right!...Saruman is still at Orthanc. What in the world is going on here!"

Just then Illadria returned and Soleil and Sparrow stopped talking.

"No fire ladies. If indeed our passage has gone unnoticed, it's best we keep it that way." Sparrow opened her mouth to complain, but immediately closed it again. Something was indeed very wrong in the Shire, and she really did not want to see any more orcs.

"You've been injured." Soleil said, and instinctively laid her hand on the deep gash in Illadria's upper arm. Warmth spread out from the touch and Illadria flinched away. She looked at the flesh beneath the ripped fabric, and shrugged, "It's merely a scratch." But as she was speaking, Soleil collapsed to the ground.

She woke a few minutes later to find Sparrow waving something under her nose. "Garlic?"

"Sorry. It's the strongest smell I could find."

Illadria was leaning over Sparrow, but withdrew when she saw Soleil open her eyes and start to sit up.

"What happened?" Soleil asked, feebly rising up on both arms.

Sparrow gave a lively recount of the recent events. "Illy did get hurt by one of those orcs...I saw the cut myself - when you mentioned it...but she won't admit it. You healed it. Incredible! Then your face went white, and your eyes rolled back in your head, and then...you passed out. How do you feel?"

"Okay, I think. Other than a bit of a headache."

Illy returned from her patrol. "We cannot linger. It would be unwise to be on the road after nightfall."

But Sparrow protested. "Soleil is not yet ready to travel. She missed lunch - we all did - and she must have a bite before we go any further."

"Oh, I see...Soleil must eat before we go any further. Very well then, she shall eat. And I suppose you'll be wanting a small bite as well." Sparrow thought she saw the elf's lips turn up slightly, and there was certainly a glimmer in her eyes.

"Then let us break bread together." Illadria continued. "But let us do so in peace.

She reached into a hidden pouch and removed a piece of bread.

"Ooh! Is that Lembas?"

"Indeed so, Madam Hobbit. Though, I must warn you...one small bite of lembas is enough to sustain a grown Elf for a full day. Do not treat this as you would a piece of cake. Though it is quite delectable." She passed the bread to Soleil, who daintily tore off a small piece and passed it to Sparrow. Sparrow grasped the loaf in both hands and savored the sweet aroma which inconcievably still waft from the bread though it was likely days - or even weeks - old. She wanted so much to keep the whole bun for herself, but she remembered her impeccable manners and, after tearing a larger than average piece for herself, returned the remainder to Illadria.

Soon the small band of merry travelers was back on the road. Illadria walked briefly beside the others before returning to her post.

"I am puzzled by these recent events. First I was distrustful of you, but I know now that you are just as baffled as I am. This charm I am wearing may have nothing to do with any of these other affairs, but I do not believe in coincidence. Please give me your word that you will not try to remove it from me. I do not wish to see any harm come to you, especially not from me." Sparrow and Soleil reluctantly agreed. Illadria dashed ahead of them, and they all fell into place.

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

As nightfall approached the ladies found themselves inside a lively inn at the south end of the village of Stock. The roadhouse was crowded this night. But, the only hobbits in view were those working. Sparrow was shocked by the shady patronage. They were greeted with whistles, catcalls, and even grunts. Sparrow missed Illadria, and certainly preferred her company over Elennar's, but at this moment she was glad for Elennar's presence.

They sat themselves and waited for a server to approach. Before any did, however, an especially offensive lout appeared, flanked by four others - each more repugnant then the next.

The first advanced upon Soleil. He put his hand out as if to grab her, but Illadria snatched his wrist. "You have no manners. This is a lady, and your vile hands shall not touch her." The brute leered at her, and then cried out as she twisted his wrist and snapped it.

Still holding him by his limp wrist she rose suddenly from her seat and flung him heavily onto two of his cronies, knocking all three of them to the ground. The last two closed in with knives drawn.

Sparrow screamed and dove under the table. Soleil just sat and stared, too stunned and excited to move. Sparrow grabbed her and pulled her under.

"Nadorhuanrim!* If you live as dogs, you shall die as dogs." On each side, she was flanked by a wood-be killer. These were brothers, it seemed. Grotesque brutes who acted as if with one mind. Licking their lips, and gnashing their teeth, the gruesome duo hemmed her in and then struck in unison. But Illadria seemed to move faster than eyes could see. She gazed up at the ceiling, and then, at the moment of the attack, she was gone. The brothers howled in pain and astonishment as they thrust they're killing blows. Too late they realize their prey had escaped. Though their dying eyes, as they looked skyward, saw her there in the rafters. When she leapt down, landing soft as a cat, the other three ran screaming into the night.

"Good riddance to bad rubbish...that's what I always say." The serving wench had finally arrived. They were in a hobbit-owned establishment, but this no hobbit.

The three women all stared at her. This was a bar wench if ever there was one. Thick, curly, red hair framed her full face. She was full of energy and full bodied and she wore a dress that proclaimed it. "What'll it be?" she finally asked.

"Well, actually..." began Sparrow.

"Well, I'll be...it's about time. I've been expecting you. Sparrow!" she said. "It's me! Majah!"

Sparrow climbed up on the bench and hugged Majah.

"And Soleil." Majah said greeting the quiet elf maiden.

Facing the last one, she said. "And you, I presume, are Elennar."

"And I see you have found the brooch."

Elennar put her hand over the pin. But the clasp broke as she did so, and she grasped the brooch in her fist. She saw Majah now as she really was, not a bar wench, but a wizard. And as the world spun faster and faster around her, and she felt herself slipping away, she watched helplessly as the wizard reached into her clenched hand and removed the amulet.



* Cowardly dogs