Reawakened Mordor - RPG

[Aradaewen]

Our story begins in the village of Bree, in the Inn of the Prancing Pony. An elf sits at the bar. She is Aradaewen, elf-scout from the forests of Mirkwood, friend of the dwarves of the Lonely Mountain.

She had vivid red hair and vibrantly green clothes, along with a cherry wood bow at her back. She looks very much like a Ranger, having in fact spent a lot of time with them, especially Aragorn... Elessar, the new King of Gondor. She had just recieved a message from him-

"The War of the Ring is over, and the One Ring destroyed, but terror still reigns in Mordor. Saruman did not escape Isengard to attack Hobbiton; he waited until we left Mordor after the Ringbearer carried out his duty, and reunited all evil to him. Who will be brave enough to oppose him???"

Aradaewen had come to Bree to find someone, anyone, who might be brave enough... and that someone had just walked in the door...

<>OOC- whenever you're ready...<>

[ September 30, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[Faye Took]

Faye walked through the door with the hood of her clock up. She carefully put her sword Sting (which she inherated from Frodo) into it's scabber. She lowered her hood and her long blond hair shinned in the candle light. All of the voices in the Prancing Pony had stopped, and the men began talking amongse themselves looking boldly at Faye. Faye walked over to the bar and heaved herself onto the chair. 'Hello there Mr.Butterbur. Could I have an ale please.' Faye sat silently while drinking her ale.

[ August 31, 2002: Message edited by: Faye Took ]

[Judge Simon]

Shade had walked into the bar that night with only one thing on his mind. To rest. he had been fighting in the South for many years,too many years, he thought, and was worn out. He cast a dark sence through the inn. He walked over to the fire and took out a silver hip flask and began to take some sips from it. Shade took a look around the bar. The regulars had already arrived and there were some new strangers, a red haired girl had caught his eye for a minute and then noticed her glance toward him. He turned his gaze back to the fire....

[ December 02, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[Aradaewen]

Radae's eyes had been scanning the common-room, searching for anyone that might want to raise arms against the evil of Mordor. When her gaze reached the fire, she saw a human man there, very tired and weary-looking, wrapped up in a long black cloak. When he pulled out a hip flask and started drinking from it, his cloak was raised from his body, and several knives of varying lengths glinted in the firelight. He also noticed her interest in him at the moment, and turned around to gaze into the fire.

Radae's keen ears heard the slight, musical voice from the other side of the bar. She turned and saw the loveliest hobbit she had ever come across. She looked like she could do some damage too, with that blade at her waist, which Radae recognized as elven-make.

Rising from her seat, she strolled over and sat down next to the hobbit lass. They started talking, and became friends rather quickly. The hobbit had come from Hobbiton, and Radae asked if she knew Collete Took, her other hobbit friend. When the lass assured her that she did, and was in fact her kin, Radae asked her if she knew anything about the War of the Ring. She explained to her about the position of King Elessar and Mordor and asked for her help, anxiously awaiting her reply...

[Morai]

Aranel was already in the bar when Shade walked in. His face she didn't reconise, but he wasn't the first stranger she had seen.

Bree was often her stop on the way back from Rivendell. Both places were great to entertain at. The black haired elf played an enchanting song...

[Faye Took]

'I would love to help you.' said Faye smileing rather largely at Radae. Faye threw her hair over her shoulder. 'I'm glad we met Radae, I'm sure we become great friends. Let me get you an ale my lady. Barliman, two more ales if you will.' Faye grabbed an ale and began drinking it rather fast. She looked somewhat nervous.'What is it?' asked Radae. 'That man by the fire. He's been starin' at us for some time now.'

[Judge Simon]

OoC: Oh me and my compulsive staring smilies/rolleyes.gif

BiC:
Shade had put away his flask and began to walk around the bar, leaving his post at the fire place. An elvish song floated past his ears it was beautiful even if he couldn't understand most of it. He walked over to the bar and sat a the corner of it. He took out a long pipe and lit it. He was still intrigued by the red haired girl and now being closer he saw she was an elf. Interesting, he thought.

[ColletteTook]

" THEIF! GET HER!" came screams from the front door, as Collette scurried in to hide amoungst the crowd to get away from the angry baker. She ran straight on, into Faye. " what do you think your doing?" Said Faye, looking back at the baker and the pursuing guards, who soon had her pinned against the bar, holding her by the collar, and growling. "I DIDNT DO ANYTHING, I SWEAR!" she sqeaked, as quite a few muffins tumbled from her cloak. "uh-oh....." she blurted.
" Help! FAYE! RADAE! I COULDNT HELP MYSELF! they were blueberry! BLUEBERRY MUFFINS! I WAS HUNGRY!"
A few loaves bread and more than a dozen cookies sprouted forth as they turned over her cloak. "REALLY HUNGRY! DONT LET THEM TAKE ME AWAY NOOOOOO!" she said as the guards started to drag her away from the scene she had made.

[Judge Simon]

Shade rolled his eyes at the hobbit and her behavior and then he shouted to the guards
Shade-What do you think you're doing?
Guard-She's a thief
Guard2_We're taking her to the stocks
Shade-Well, don't bother with that[he said walking over] those are my muffins
Guard-You moffins[he asked in disbelief]
Shade-[walks right up to the guard and gets in his face] Yeah, got a problem with that?
Guard-N-n-no, well if they're yours, what would you have us do to this one[he said talking about the hobbit]
Shade-Buy her a pint of ale and go away.
Guard-Yes sir, right away sir.
The guard muttered the order to the barkeep and then walked away very quickly.

[Faye Took]

Faye got down from her chair and quickly grabbed on of the muffins and stuffed it in her face. Everyone looked at her oddly,'What? A warriors got to eat!' and she picked another one up and began eating it. Faye looked over at Collette and grinned every so largely smilies/biggrin.gif ,'Cullette!' she said with a mouth full of muffins. Faye ran over and gave her a hug. She swallowed hard. 'Stealing again,' Faye began in a low voice,'And Bluebarry! You should've got nuts!' Faye gave Collette another hug.

[Judge Simon]

Shade looked over the hobbits to the elven girl(which wasn't hard)
Shade- Are you with these two crazy Halflings?

[Faye Took]

'Where not crazy, where hobbits.' Faye said looking at the man smiling. 'And if you have something against hobbits, well thats sad.' Faye's smiled disappered as she looked over to Collette. 'We are the greatest warriors in the Shire. Where known all around Middle-Earth.'

[ColletteTook]

Collette looked over at shade,he looked back disdainfully, at the two "warriors" that were stuffing their faces with muffin.
" thanks for saving me." she said, smiling a huge smile, and offering him a muffin.

[Aradaewen]

Radae grinned, "You'd better take it, sir... there'll be precious little left with two hobbits, especially these two. They aren't crazy all the time... only when there's blueberry muffins. Oh, Collete... I'd like to talk to you."

She grabbed the girl and took her off to the side. After explaining her problem with Saruman, she waited for Collete to think and answer. Collete grinned widely. "Of course I'll come! Where else will I have the opportunity to kill a few orcs? Perhaps a few wounded ones while you're not looking..." Radae grinned back.

[ September 30, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[ColletteTook]

Collette grinned and bounced back to the bar. after having a pint or two (or three), fast music struck up from somewhere (probably in her head), and she seized Fayes and started dancing ( on a table).
Any who looked upon them now, knowing they were warriors, would be likey to worry for middle earth's safety.

[Aradaewen]

When Radae was with Collete, she smiled about five times more than normal- and loved every minute of it. Laughing uproariously and very un-elfishly (hint, hint!), she leaped up on the table and began dancing with the hobbits, pulling up Shade (to his obvious embarrassment) to dance with her. The other people in the bar were laughing and cheering and clapping so loudly that it took a while for the Innkeeper to get their attention and tell them to settle down or he'd have to throw them out. <>Oh, that's my bad! smilies/biggrin.gif<>

[ColletteTook]

Collette roared with laughter at the innkeeper- pointing at him like he was something funny, but got off the table. " this is goign to be fun!" she said, referring to the adveture, oblivious to the fact that the were putting their lives in danger. " killing orcs!" was all she was thinking about.

[Aradaewen]

That comment sobered Radae at once. She pulled Collete back into her seat and started speaking in low voices to her and Faye. "Now girls, I know this is sounds like a spring outting to you, but let me assure you if there is one thing in this world any mre different from this trip... its that!" For some reason, Collete started laughing again.

"Please be serious! This could very well be the end of us, and of Middle Earth... Now we need to lay some plans..." They had just started talking about transportation, food, and other supplies when someone behind Radae placed a hand on her shoulder and whirled her around...

[ColletteTook]

Collette raised her eyebrows at Shade who had whirled Radae around. She became serious at once. the end of middle earth!
She quickly read over Radae's plans, as she conversed with Shade, whom she had not quite taken to.

< excuse my short reply. brain fart>>

[Judge Simon]

ooC: **Sprays inspiration fresher around the room**

BiC:
Shade-Spring outing or no, you're going to need more help then just a few hobbits. Saurman has powers of which you couldn't possibly imagine.
Collette-Who, then will we need?
Shade-Me[he said sitting down]
Radae-How do we know that you aren't working for him?
Shade-You don't...

[ColletteTook]

" exactly. which is why your not going." started collette, but Faye elbowed her in the side.
" not that my opnion counts" she shrugged and truned back to the plans, sipping on another mug and absentmidedly grabbing the pastry from Faye's hand and taking a bite.
If looks could kill, Collette might be dead.

[Aradaewen]

Radae also elbowed Collete. "You're right, it doesn't count- and you'd better give that back to Faye." She snatched the pastry and handed it back to her.

She turned to Shade, "I don't know your name, Sir, so the first sign of trust between us is introductions. I am Aradaewen, a dra... elf from the wilds of Mirkwood and the Lonely Mountain. Scout and Archer. Who do I have the honor of addressing?"

Collete made a loud noise of indignation through her nose at this last statement, but Radae silenced her with a glare as she awaited Shade's answer.

[ColletteTook]

Shade replied ever so plolitley , but Collette chose not to listen, but rudely turn her back to him. She didnt trust this stranger in the least bit.
To her his Aura was red and Darkly aired; though she did not know him nearly well enough to know its trueness, another thing that discomforted her.
" excuse her" said faye, embarrased at Collette's rude behavior, giving her another scathing look.

[Judge Simon]

Shade tossed a look at Collette, who didn't notice it and then turned back to Radae.
Shade-When do you plan to set out, soon, I would imagine...[Shade tried to make a grab for the plans, but Collette won't let they go even if Shade used a crowbar]
Shade-Distrust, can't have it on a mission such as this, with such great importance.

[ColletteTook]

Collette glared and continued to clutch the plans as if it were her first born son. "who are you to preach about distrust when you wont even be honest about who you work for?" She growled.
Radae scowled at her and jerked the plans away, handing them to shade.
" so much for saving middle earth" she muttered to herself. "Not when a traitor is in our midst."

[Aradaewen]

Radae gasped and turned back to Collete with a hurt look on her face. "If you don't trust Shade, that's fine," she said, "but I at least thought that you trusted me!" Collete looked up sharply. "Not you, Radae! Of course I trust you!" she ammended quickly. Radae nodded and looked satisfied.

Shade read the plans quickly and handed them back to Radae, who stuffed them into her vest pocket. "Right," he said, "yes, leaving soon is a good idea, and you'll take my advice as where to get your supplies.."

Radae nodded and he continued, "Horses- and ponies- will be hard to get, since the folk of Bree don't use them very often, but there is a farm some 10 miles out of town that will sell you some. You can start there."

"Food won't be much better. There were droughts and floods throught the growing seasons this year and the food crops weren't all that great. However, if you buy an apple or two here and a loaf of bread there, and come back to their shops every so often, and build up your stores gradually and carefully, it'll cost you moneywise and timewise, but you'll get food."

Collete folded her arms and turned away from Shade in disgust. "That's dishonest!" she said, "That's cheating people out of what little food they have!" Radae shushed her. "Yes Collete, but they'll get more than their money's worth if we follow through, and what choice do we have? We don't even have enough supplies to make it back to the Shire! And even if we did, we'd use them again all the way back and end up no better off..."

[Judge Simon]

Shade-Have any of you ever met Saurman?
Collette-No! Have you?[she said a bit accussingly]
Shade-Maybe, anyway I'm serious...its very important...

[ September 02, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[ColletteTook]

Collette Gave an accusing stare and threw her hands in the air. "see?! hes untrustworthy!" she said louldy, not caring that she said it to his face. "he is probably a spy." she said eyeing him with distrust..

[Judge Simon]

Shade-You assume too much, how do I know if I can trust a theif, that would have found herself in the stocks, had it not been for this spy...I was just trying to see if any of you knew exactly what you were playing at.

[ September 02, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[Aradaewen]

Radae studied Shade's face. His name suited him well. His face was hidden in shadow, but embers smouldered in his eyes, mingling light and darkness. His face was drawn and skull-like, with slight purpling beneath the eye-lids which suggested little sleep.

But there was something about him. An inner sense of nobility that could not be evil. A force or will to overcome hardship and fear and to be someone important. A kind of feeling she got every time she looked into the eyes of Aragorn...

"He is not a spy," Radae said. "At least he is not a spy of Mordor."

[ September 02, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[Judge Simon]

Shade-Well, if you could convince your little friend of that by tomorrow, I'd be much obliged. I'm going outside the atmosphere in here is too stuffy.
{Shade got up and exited the pub. He walked across the street and sat down on a bench. He lit his long clay pipe and sent smoke rings into the air he watched some people leave the pub and others go in. Then he saw one of the people he had been talking to leave and come over to him...

ooC:that can be for any one...

[ColletteTook]

Collette bit back a diatribe she longed to throw at him, as she realized he was right. He had saved her from being arrested, and that she herself, wasnt trustworthy either.
She silenced and turned around, sulking with her elbows on the table...

[Aradaewen]

<>Obviously that one isn't Collete! smilies/biggrin.gif<>

Radae looked down at Shade, who was resting with his back against the Inn wall, his hood over his face, and his eyes closed, <>I guess<> puffing smoke rings. "May I join you?" Radae asked. "If you must," Shade replied, noncommittally.

Radae sat beside him, and drew a slender wooden pipe from within her vest. It was elegantly carved with the end fashioned in the shape of an open-mouthed dragon. Shade looked at Radae in surprise. She shrugged and grinned, "Are only men allowed to smoke?"

When he didn't answer, she grabbed a pinch of weed from a small pouch inside her vest and blew smoke rings along with Shade for a time, each trying to outdo the other in ring size, shape, and color.

[Judge Simon]

Shade gave a light chuckle
Shade-Not bad
Radae-oh, he laughs. I thought you never laughed
Shade-Sure I laugh, sometimes, I don't laugh all day like an idiot.[Shade replied and then he noticed some one else he knew. A tall dark figure]Excuse me a minute.[He left Rade before she could respond. Shade walked over and began talking to the dark guest. Although Radae knew much and had keen hearing, she couldn't make out what they were saying. The language they were speaking in sounded harsh but not like orc or Black Speech. He talked for sometime and then the dark one left and Shade returned to the bench.

[Aradaewen]

"That was a strange meeting," Radae said as soon as Shade sat down. "Who was that?" Shade didn't answer. "You know, if we're going to be traveling together, there needs to be trust, like you said before. How can I trust someone who speaks with dark strangers in unknown languages and doesn't answer questions about it?" Shade actually looked amused that Radae would put it so bluntly. (and very unelfishly)

[Judge Simon]

Shade puffed on his pipe for a moment
Shade-Trust, hard to gain, easy to lose. I have many contacts in this world, not all of them are so secretive. But that one, that one I just met with. He is a friend of old and he wishes to keep his annymity. I must respect his own wishes as he respects mine. You never answered my question.
Radae-What was that?
Shade- I had asked if anyone had ever met Saurman, you didn't answer...

[Aradaewen]

She answered through gritted teeth- "No, I have not had the honor of meeting him, but when I do, the pleasure will be all mine..." Shade grinned again, but stopped suddenly.

Radae's eyes had started to glow with rage, burning with some inner fire. Her face elongated, and smoke furled from her nostrils. So great was her anger that she seemed to be transforming... into what?

A second later, he wondered if he had imagined it. She looked just like a normal elf-girl, but she looked scared. When he opened his mouth to question her, she muttered something about needing sleep and ran inside.

[ColletteTook]

Collette watched Radae run inside, her hands covering her face in terror. She hopped down from her seat and drew her sword. " What did her do???? i swear when i get my hands on him......."

[Judge Simon]

Shade watched her run off. He had felt that there was more to her than she revealed, but he didn't know anything about her yet. An what of the two halflings. The one called Fae seemed likeable enough but the other one. The theif. Collette. He would have to watch his back around that one. He sat for awhile smoking his pipe, watching the people go by. When the dark one he had been talking to earlier sat next to him and began speaking in the same foreign tongue.
Dark1-Who is the girl?
Shade-An ally.
Dark1-Does she realize what she is getting herself into
Shade-No, she is blinded by hate.
Dark1-That can be used to an advantage
Shade-Maybe...news from the South?
Dark1-Silent as a tomb, you'll leave tomorrow?
Shade-Most likely.
Dark1-Well, go get some sleep, you look dead.
Shade gave a dark laugh and the Dark one left him and slipped into the shadows. Shade got up and went into a nearby inn and fell asleep...

[Aradaewen]

The next morning Radae seemed perfectly normal, a little strained, perhaps, but normal. She didn't answer any questions about the night before and treated the whole thing like it never happened. That was alright for Faye, but Collete and Shade were very interested, for very different reasons...

[Judge Simon]

Shade was saddling up his horse when Radae came outside
Radae-Nice horse[she mused]
Shade-Viri, is his name, we've been through a lot together. Ready to go?

[Aradaewen]

<>OOC- last post tonite, I have a younger brother who wants online. Bye bye!<>

"Yes," Radae said, and walked away. Shade barely had time to wonder why she had said she was ready if she had to leave, when she was back, leading two ponies (carrying Faye and a very sour-looking Collete) and a lovely red stallion.

Seeing the puzzled look on Shade's face, Radae explained, "I was bored last night, so I went to that farm you told use about and bought these fine fellows." The stallion nudged her shoulder. "The farmer didn't want to sell this one, but he jumped the fence in his efforts to follow me, and the farmer let me buy him. I've named him Narwa, which means firey red."

Shade nodded, a show of understanding but not much interest. Collete gave Radae one of those I-told-you-so looks as she swung herself up onto the stallion and rode off down the road.

[Morai]

Aranel was very tired. She almost missed the travelers. The elf ran outside.
"Exsuse me, I overheard your conversation last night. I have some talents that might be useful on your quest." Aranel whispered to Radae, showing her fife and sword.

[Judge Simon]

While the elf was talking with Radae, Shade began getting his horse ready, making sure that the saddle was tight when he felt a tugging on his sleeve.
Fae- I could use a hand here
Shade smiled lightly and helped the hobbit onto the pony. Shade turned to help Collette but instead Collette turned away from Shade and got herself on the pony with a fair amount of trouble.
Shade- You ok there?
Collette- Not any of your business is it?
Shade wondered at the hobbit's bitterness and then wondered if she had seen him last night in the second meeting he had with the dark one. He got onto his horse and rode up with the hobbits so that he was in between them
Fae-So Shade, where are you from?
Shade-Oh, I've lived so many places, I've never been anywhere long enough to call home.
Collette-[to herself]probably because he has warrents on his head...

[ColletteTook]

As they rode, Collette's incessant muttering and bitter commenting did not help in least bit her mood, nor the "friendly" atmosphere around them.
She was livid at the fact that Radae and Faye could not see through him as she did so easily. Perhaps she was being too up-tight. Or perhaps it was Faye and Radae being too laid back..
She had not trusted him for a moment and wasnt about to start now. Collette took on the responsibilty of watching him closely through out the entire trip to make sure he would never have a chance to betray them; It would be burndensome, but worth their lives.
She looked over at him, who was now innocently pointing out cloud shapes with Faye. ' a typical disguise to hide behind' she thought to herself....

[Judge Simon]

Shade was enjoying himself for the moment. No stress of battle or fear. Just fluffy clouds. I need to travel with hobbits more often, he thought.
Shade-Look, see that one there? reminds me a lot of...
Fae- Muffins!!!
Shade lightly laughed his usual laugh
Shade-What about you, Collette? Does it look like a muffin to you?
Collette-Hmm...[she said not really looking up]
Shade-Fae, ride on ahead for a minute
Fae got the point and left Shade with Collette.
Shade- Is there something you need to talk to me about?
Collette-No, of course not[she lied, and Shade sw it in her eyes]
Shade-There's no need to lie to me, Collette, I can see it in your eyes.
Collette-it takes a liar to recognise another!
Shade- Collette, Did something happen last night that upset you? I need to know now. One day our lives may depend on each other. If we can't trust each other now, when?

[Aradaewen]

Radae had accepted Aranels help, and she now rode along-side her. Radae looked back and saw Shade questioning Collette. Her heart skipped a beat... Collette knew about her. Did Shade suspect her?

Radae was a dragon. The sister of Smaug, she had lived in the Lonely Mountain with the dwarves in elven form and gained their trust before breaking the news to their King. It had not prevented them from sending her away...

She went to live with the elves of Mirkwood and had lived there for many years when she met Legolas, going to Rivendell for the Council of Elrond. Things progressed from there, and she ended up traveling with the Fellowship.

She had returned to the Shire with the hobbits for a while and was present at the birth of Collette, who became her great friend and sole confidant in her secret, (besides the dwarves) which was revealed every time her firey temper got the better of her. (Which Shade witnessed)

Reining in her horse, she rode quickly back to the pair and casually said, "Collette, may I talk to you?" Collette was looking grumpy, but she rode ahead with Radae, leaving behind a slightly-disappointed looking Shade.

[Judge Simon]

Shade watched as Collette rode over with Radae. He wanted to hear what they were saying but he rode by himself a bit at the back of the group. He wondered if he had succeeded in getting Fae and Radae to trust him. The new elf seemed to be an asset as well, to the group. Shade was lost in his own thoughts and musings when he heard someone yell back to him...

OoC: That can be for anyone...

[Morai]

"Careful, you're falling behind!" Aranel yelled. She was uneasy about Shade, but she didn't show it. He might be good or bad. It was hard to tell.

[ September 06, 2002: Message edited by: Morai ]

[ColletteTook]

<< in no offense at all morai, i think you should add a few more sentences to your last reply or else they will cancel our rpg. smilies/biggrin.gif Aradaewen knows what im talking about. slip up a little and they show no mercy...>>


"No Radae, i swear i didnt tell him anything" she said for the third time as, seemingly each person of the company pulled her aside to question her.
Radae sighed and looked ahead. "you know, it is likely he will find out sooner or later if you remain under this amount of stress.." said collette looking into her friends clouded eyes..
She looked back at Shade,who had retreated into his thoughts. She lagged back once more. "Look, i dont mean to be so vicious." she began lamely. " I dont know who you are, i dont know who your friends are. Yes, i am talking about that funny-spoken stranger you were talking to the other night." she said looking at Shade's musing face. " So i will give you a chance for the sake of the trip. I will be a plesant companion. " she said trying to refer away from the term 'friends' for the time being and holding out her hand.

[ September 06, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[Judge Simon]

Shade shook her hand.
Shade-I'm glad to see you have some trust in me, little one. And as long you're with me, you don't have to worry about my friends![he finished with a grin spreading across his face, he urged his horse to a gallop and caught back up with Radae and from the sound of it, so had Collette] Hey Radae! wait up a bit. So where are we headed for today? I mean I know where we'll eventually wind up...but that will take more than just a day's journey...[Shade brought his horse back to a walk as Collette rode up to the other side of Radae. Shade knew that the hobbit couldn't turn her attitude towards him that quickly and he didn't feel like pushing her buttons any more]

OoC: My apologies for the short length...I got drained at school today smilies/mad.gif

[ September 06, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[Faye Took]

OoC: Hey Judge just to let ya know its Faye not Fae! smilies/biggrin.gif

Faye rode up next to Collette. 'You alright?' she asked. 'Yes just finishing up some business with Shade.' 'I see.' replied Faye. 'Oh! I have something for you.' Faye began seaching through her bag and pulled out two left over bluebarry muffins and handed on to Collette. Faye smilied and began eating it. Faye started choking on a bluebarry. She kept coughing and then all of a sudden it flew out of her mouth and landed on the pony's head. 'Are you alright?' asked Collette worried. Faye looked at the bluebarry confused, then looked at Collette and grined and once again began stuffing her face in her bluebarry muffin.

[ColletteTook]

Collette laughed happily and chewed a bit of muffin as well.
" We will stop tonight when we find a safe clearing" Radae replied to Shade.
Collette glanced over at Faye and grinned happily, bouncing on her pony and picking the Blueberries out of her muffin and giving them to Faye. She hated blueberries.

[Faye Took]

Faye took the barries out of Collettes hand and practically inhailed them. Faye smiled at Collette and looked up at the night sky.'Look!' Faye pointed up to the sky. 'A shooting star! Make a wish Collette!' Faye closed her eyes and squeezed her hands tight.'What did you wish for?' Collette asked. 'I wished that we were back in the Shire. I haven't been there in a year. I miss my family and all the ale and parties.' Faye looked to the ground.

[Judge Simon]

OoC--To FaYe: My deepest apologies to Ms. FaYe as I have screwed up the spelling of her name. I can only hope that Ms. FaYe will forgive me for my great ignorance smilies/cool.gif

--BiC--
Shade pushed some stray black hairs out of his eyes and continued to ride on getting lost into his own thoughts again. sleep outside? he thought. No problem for him but he thought them might have been able to make town before nightfall. There were contacts waiting for him. If he didn't let them know how everthing was going there could be trouble. Shade had to think of something. Maybe later though, one night might be ok.
Shade-OW![a pebble had been pelted at the back of his head. he turned around and there was Collette and Faye. They were both pointing at the other as the perpatrater] Nice aim, whichever of you threw it...

[ September 07, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[ColletteTook]

Night covered them quicker it seemed than natural. The air was tense for many a reason they could not yet fathom.
As they sat in a small and efficient clearing, Collette pulled back her tangling and wild curls with a small band of faded and rather ugly ribbon (stolen, but was likely not to be missed).
Faye was chewing on another one of her seemingly endless supply of muffins. Collette mused for a moment a vision of Faye at home, pulling clothes out of her pack to make more room for her provision.
She laughed and pushed her bangs from her eyes, and rolled up to sleep, ignoring the forboding feeling that stirred the air cold.

[Judge Simon]

Shade stayed just on the outside of the firelight. The journey was still long and they hadn't covered nearly as much ground as they should have. He watched the two hobbits get ready for bed, the two elves talking silently by the fire. Shade rested his back against a tree and looked toward the main road, barely seen through the trees. They would be safe for awhile then a dark hand appeared from behind the tree dragging Shade around the other side. Shade found himself facing a very dark skinned man. Typical clothing of a messenger though it was very dark clothing like Shade's, he was muscular with tight corn rows running through his hair. The man struck his chest with his right hand and then stuck out his hand to shake Shade's. Shade did the same and shook the man's hand. They appeared to know each other.
Shade-What news, Jakeem?
Jakeem-Sir, they begining to grow stronger, our men can't keep them away for much longer! We need you leading the charge against--
Shade-Lower your voice, I travel not alone...
Jakeem-Sorry sir, but
Jakeem didn't finish his thought as a twig snap behind them announced the arrival of visitors...

OoC: That can be for any one...

[ColletteTook]

Collette, who had felt Shade pass her in sleep, decided to follow the man she so distrusted.
Listening to their conversation, she had peiced together that he was in some type of war.....probably in league with orcs no doubt she thought idily, before loosing her distinct footing and cracking a few twigs. She looked up, horrified and realized she had been discovered...

[Judge Simon]

Jakeem was a bit younger and a touch quicker than Shade. He jumped around Shade and grabbed the hobbit by the scruff of the neck
Collette-Hey! Hands off the material!
Jakeem roughly put her down and stood behind her
Jakeem-Who is this?[he asked Shade]
Shade- A fierce little halfling. Bite your kneecaps off, she will.
Jakeem laughed a bit before Collette stomped down on his foot
Jakeem-OW! You were right...
Collette-And who are you?
Jakeem-Just a messenger[he said walking around to Shade] I'll be seeing you later right?[he said in a slight under tone]
Shade-Yeah, of course, tell the rest to not lose hope.
Jakeem-Right sir[then speaking back up]Pleasure meeting you[he said to Collette and then he left]
Shade-Up a little late...can't sleep?

[ColletteTook]

"Unfortunately not." she said coldly, watching the stranger walk away. "and you just happen to walk into some aquaintance in the middle of the night per-chance?" she said glaring evilly at Shade, dusting feverently where the man had grabbed her and tossing her wild and tangled curls before glaring fixedly at him, like an angered bull.

[Judge Simon]

Shade-Still full of distrust, young Hobbit? Maybe it was by chance that I met him. He is a messenger after all.
Collette-Messenger for who?
Shade passed by her walking back toward the firelight but looked over his shoulder and tossed off a comment.
Shade-He's a messenger for my army in Mordor.[Shade wasn't at all serious in his comment. He walked over to the fire and sat himself next to Radae]

[ColletteTook]

Face turning red once more out of anger, she mouthed wordlessly at his back and tramped off to bed, though not intending to sleep so soon.
She was slowly peicing him together, since it seemed that the other just wouldnt do so.
She listened intently to see if was asleep yet.
To her possibly mounting anger, he wasnt.

[Judge Simon]

Shade had watched as Collette thundered over to where she had intended to sleep. He smirked to himself. Pleasent compainion, indeed, he thought. Shade pulled out a piece of parchment and began to read it. Jakeem had slipped it to him before he left. It was worn and a bit frayed. Shade furrowed his brow as he read it. It contained news which troubled him a bit. They would have to quicken their pace. Shade folded the paper and put it beside him. Still sitting and looking into the dancing flames of the fire Shade let his mind wander into the distant past...

[ColletteTook]

Shade was found in the early morning, bustling around. Collette turned over and muttered "how come your getting ready to leave? its not even sunrise yet."
" We have to leave early this morning." he muttered back in the same fashion.
Collette took it as mocking sarcasm and sighed and rolled her eyes and started to get up.
Radae had begun to awake as well, but Faye rufused to rise until Collette coersed her into conciousness with a muffin.

< niiiiice reply at many meetings smilies/eek.gif my mouth fell to the table. So did thengise's. i called her up and told her about it.....>>

[ September 08, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[Aradaewen]

<>*mouth drops herself* HOLY HANNAH!!! I was gone, what?, three days and you guys wrote THAT much! I need to check in more often... and yes, I do know what will happen if there are only one-sentence replies to a thread! smilies/wink.gif<>

Radae went about her morning duties with a certain resigned air. She could tell by the bitter sidelong glances (its an elf-thing! smilies/wink.gif) that something had happened to widen the rift between Shade and Collette that she had tried so hard to close. Maybe it would shorten the suspicion on her... She was certain that Collette would explain to her in due time what it was, and didn't have long to wait.

As soon as they packed up their horses (and ponies) Collette rode up beside Radae with a very colorful explanation. Radae listened, with half a smile and half a frown; the first for Collette's language, the second for Shade's secrecy. He sounded a lot like herself, but she did not have an army in Mordor... yet.

[ColletteTook]

Collette cursed a few curse words she had picked up in bree under her breath.
"COLLETTE!" faye shouted and pinched her arm for her language.
" army in mordor.... i dunno i dont trust people who have dark messengers coming to them in the middle of the night talking about mordor armies....."

[Judge Simon]

OoC-**Wipes away kisses from last RpG** Been busy while you were away Ms. Radae! Howzitgoing with you?
--BiC--

Shade was riding at the back of the group still going over his parchment from the night before, trying to write something down on it. He looked up and noticed that Collette was colorfully retelling last night's encounter to Radae and Faye. He wondered how much of it was the unvarnished truth. He finished writting on it and put it into his pocket. He looked to the east and the sun was still low in the sky. They would cover much ground today and Shade was glad of that.

OoC- Nice writting for Thengise, Collette smilies/wink.gif

[Faye Took]

OOC: I accept you apology Judge Simon

Faye was in the back of the group minding her own business watching the rest of the group. Faye patted the horses head, for she was very bored.

[Morai]

Aranel rode silently as usual. She would play her fife, but it was too dangerous. The man might not be trusted. For a talent might be a threat to enemies.

The Elf recalled last night's conversation:

"So...you can really control nature with that?" Radae asked.

"Well, it depends. Some plants and trees have minds of their own. But yes, most of the time." Aranel replied.

Radae looked skeptical. "You can sword fight too?"

"Of course. Not as well as some. Where that man go...Shade I think?"

"Probably couldn't sleep."

Her supicions arose when she heared yelling and a unfamilar voice. The next morning it seemed as if she had dreamed it all.

"Ah, well, we'll see Shade. We'll see if you're loyal or not." Aranel thought.

[ColletteTook]

<< wasnt my writing simon. Seriously,it was quoted over the phone word for word by thengise.>>

Collette fell back with Faye to trade muffins, since she had the plain ones and Colette had the blueberry.
Looking ahead she saw Shade consulting a batted peice of prachment, which she hastily tried to read over his shoulder, but he sensed her and put it away quickly.

She cursed her height, a she could not see any writing.

[Judge Simon]

OoC-So how far did Thengise's mouth drop seeing as yours hit the table smilies/wink.gif

--BiC--
Shade looked over his shoulder at Collette
Shade-Sorry Collette, private matters[He said still making sure the paper was still in his pocket] How'd you sleep Faye?
Faye-Pretty well thanks
Shade nodded and took a pipe out of his cloak and lit it. The smoke swirled out of it like magic.
Collette- A bit early isn't it?
Shade-best time in the morning before the day gets busy.
Collette quietly cursed to herself since she agreed with him on that.

[ColletteTook]

<< she broke the table and hit the floor smilies/biggrin.gif . By the way, your "romantic" chance isnt over. She crying becasue her fiance is awful and she hates him. smilies/wink.gif. WHOHOO for you!! SHE LUUUUUUVES YOU! LOL>>

Collette rode behind in silence, plotting ways to get that paper without his knowing.
Radae and Shade were talking in short and quiet voices as they rode through the the nearest town.
Sh tried to listen to what they were saying, and realized how nosy she was being and desisted.

[ September 08, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[Judge Simon]

OoC-I'm going to speed time so its the afternoon.

--BiC--
It was noonish when they reached a small town. The hobbits had grown very hungry, constantly asking about luncheon and afternoon tea. Shade and Radae both decided stopping at an inn for a short while was a good idea. They stabled their horses and went into a tavern called the White River. It was nicely lit inside and the hobbits quickly set themselves up at a table. Radae and Morai followed the hobbits. Shade had conviently excused himself and went back outside. He walked back over to the stables where Jakeem was waiting.
Jakeem-Do you have it?
Shade-yeah[Shade reached into his pocket and then a look of panic spread into his face]
Jakeem-What? Where is it?
Shade-Collette!

[ColletteTook]

<< dont know what the paper says so youll have to tell me!>>

Collette sat behind the inn, reading the paper with wide eyes, clutching it with white fingers.
Loopy writing and plans covered it from top to bottom, and she hid it quickly as Shade came around the corner, livid.
"WHERE IS IT?" he demanded.
" i dont know what your talking about" she lied coldly, backing against the wall in a theiving manner.

[Judge Simon]

Shade through with her thieving and lies. He picked her up and slammed her against the wall they were eye to eye now.
Shade-Give me the paper! Now, halfling!
Collette was terrified, he had a crazy look in his eyes. With a shakey hand Collette dropped the paper to the floor. Like lightening Shade picked the paper up dropping Collette to the floor. He gave her a threating look and ran from the bar. He found Jakeem quickly and thrust the paper into his hands.
Shade-Make haste for the front!
Jakeemm nodded and took of on a chesnut colored horse. Shade was watching him go when he felt something heavy hit the back of his head and he fell immediatly to the ground. His vision had gone fuzzy but he could still hear voices
Collette-I told you! I told you!
Radae-We can't leave him in the street
And then Shade passed into unconsciencess. He awoke many hours later with a sore head and he found himself in a room in an inn. And there was someone with him...

[ColletteTook]

Collette was seated upon a chair, her feet upon another peice of furniture.
She was smoking a pipe and looked amused at Shade, who had been bound with a length of rope.
"I was the only one who saw you for what you were....TRAITOR! I must say, i have good aim with bricks..." she said indicating the large lump on his head. " bite you knee caps off....indeed...."
"COLLETTE!" Radae scolded. "No tormenting the hostages."
As if reading her mind, for Collette was angrily fingering her sharpened blade, as if itching to get it near him.
" Tell me what the paper said Shade." Radae menaced.


<WHOOPSIES! MY BAD!>

[ September 08, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[Judge Simon]

OoC-I was getting around to it...have a pint and relax smilies/tongue.gif

--BiC--
Shade was still glaring at Collette when he spoke.
Shade-My business in my own and I wish not to share it. No harm has come to any of your compainions, and you give me a brick to the back of my head.
Radae- Your busineess may interfere with our own. You will tell me what was on the paper! It must have been very important seeing as you nearly injured Collette.
Collette was looking very smug at this point
Shade-It'd do her some good, the little thief!
This pushed Collette over the edge, Shade had said to much and had hit a nerve. She lunged at him with her knife and cut across the upper part of his throat. Luckly she didn't get very deep as Radae threw Collette off him.
Collette- He brought it on himself!
Shade-Tis a mere scratch, that won't get you far in Mordor!

[ September 08, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[ColletteTook]

Collette's faced purpled in anger.
" AND YOU WOULD KNOW ALL ABOUT MORDOR WOULDNT YOU?! WOULDNT YOU? I MAY BE A THEIF BUT I AM AN HONEST ONE! YOU ARE A TRAITOR! NOTHING BUT A WORTHLESS TRAITOR AND IF I HAD MY WAY YOU WOULD HAVE BEEN SLOWLY TORTURED TO DEATH LONG AGO FOR YOUR DOINGS!" she roared, trying to throw her hands on him and rip any flesh she could reach.
Shade blinked quietly at her before responding..

[ September 08, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[Faye Took]

Faye looked at her companions. 'Well I guess you won't be needed me anymore.' Faye packed began packing her bags. 'I bid you all a do.' Faye threw a muffin to Collette. 'Good-bye.

[ColletteTook]

" GET BACK HERE FAYE! NO ONE IS GOING ANYWHERE UNTIL I GET ANSWERS!" colette roared, pulling Faye back in the room.
" you cant leave yet. We dont know who he is working for and he might have some of his spies patrolling the area that will kill you in seconds." she said, her voice softening a little.
"Shade, you will tell me what was written on that paper or you will suffer consequences." Said Radae in a slightly shaking voice, as she glanced over meaningfully at Collette, who was holding her blade.
"It is not for you to know." Said Shade softly and calmly. "Do what you may, i will never speak."
Collette thought both brave and equally irritating.
Radae sighed and her eyes shifted a bit sadly. "Do it" she muttered in an undertone to Collette, her voice shaking harder than ever, as she turned away facing the wall.
Collette approached him and placed a dagger to his throat and pressed hard, but caught his eyes.
There was something in his eyes that made her stop and re-think her actions. She couldnt do it.
"CURSE YOU!" she shrieked and punched him in the face angrily and left the room, slamming the door.

[Judge Simon]

OoC-Faye why would you go, after I finally learned your name?

--BiC--
Shade- Like I said, I keep my business to myself. And no amount of torture or mind games will get it out of me. I fyou should watch any one, Radae, it'd be that hobbit. She twists things when she doesn't understand them. There are many types of people and races in the world. I have friends in many. Untie me, Radae, and you know where my alligence lies...

[Faye Took]

OOC: Because I feel left out.

Faye looked at the company talking and shrugged her shoulders. Maybe I can find some food around here She thought to herself. Even though she at so much, she had some way of staying very skinny for a hobbit. Faye look on the corner of the road. He eyes lit up with joy, 'MUSHROOMS!' she cried and bounched her way over to the mushrooms with a huge grin on her face.

[Morai]

<<Judge Simon, my character is Aranel.>>
Aranel walked outside. There she kept an eye out for spies. Up ahead was the messenger she was looking for...

[Aradaewen]

<>*shakes head* and I thought I'd leave everyone else behind in the posting because they would be at school and I wouldn't... wonders never cease! smilies/wink.gif<>

Radae looked a trifle critical, but with another pleading looked from Shade, untied him, to hear what he had to say. Collette looked outraged that Radae would take the liberty to do this, but was shushed by a glare from her elven friend. With an appraising look, Radae brought out her bow and an arrow so quickly (such was the elven skill) that it looked like she had never moved at all. She kept the point down, but Shade knew full well that any elf could pin a fly 100 feet off the ground through the wing on a cloudy day. He didn't move... except to explain...

[Judge Simon]

Shade cracked his neck as he rubbed his wrists
Shade-Much obliged.
Radae-Explain, Shade...
Shade-I have an army in Mordor.[he said oh so causually] They've been there for over a year, fighting. My army has been losing hope, they haven't had much to hope in. When you're in Mordor its hard to hope, it kinda sucks it from you. I've been fighting there for a very long time. I left a few months ago, I've talked with Aragorn; he knows of my plight and my army's. [Shade walked over to Radae, she tightened her bowstring but remained otherwise motionless] I've been wandering sonce then looking for aid. And I think you're it, Radae...

[ColletteTook]

Collette slammed her head against the doorframe, listening intently to Shade from the other side of the door.
His explanation was honest so she believed, and was cursing herself for she knew she would have to eat her words later on.
She went back to her room and looked out the window at the purple sky filled with rainclouds.
She heard someone enter the room behind her and turned to see who it was......

[Aradaewen]

Radae looked down from her taller height smilies/biggrin.gif down at her hobbit friend, her face blank, as though Collette was just a pillow lying on the floor. then she kinda shook herself awake, and sat down on a chair. When Collette did likewise (after noticing that Radae's bow was back at her back and all of her arrows seemed to be there) the elf explained.

"Shade has told me of his army's predicament in Mordor. In fact, he was working with King Elessar before he left. We will travel and recruit together. I have proof," she said with a small grin, when Collette opened her mouth, probably to say something in protest, "that what he says is true. It is a matter between Shade and I however, so it is no good asking what the proof is." Collette's mouth closed with a snap.

"Oh, yeah... I baked something for you, buddy." Radae pulled a small bag out of her pocket. "It's an elven pouch, so it holds more than it looks. There's two batches fresh muffins in there. I baked them this morning." Collette grinned back in a satisfied way and stuffed one in her mouth promptly with a garbled "Tharnksh!" Radae laughed loudly, which turned into a small roar. She stifled it quickly with a hand to her mouth as someone stuck their head inquisitively around the corner of the door...

[ September 11, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[Judge Simon]

It was Shade
Shade-Nice laugh[he said with a boyish air and smirk]
Collette- Who invith youth in her' [she said with a mouth full of muffin]
Shade-Nobody, but it wasn't like the door was shut...I'm going outside, I never liked being couped up in places like this. Makes me feel smothered. Either one of you is welcome to join me.
Shade turned and walked out of the room and tavern all together. He breathed in the deep night air and looked up at the stars. Stars never shown in Mordor and there you could be in the middle of an open field and still feel smothered. He ran his hands through his hair and walked over to a bench and had a seat....

[Aradaewen]

Radae watched Shade leave with a barely surpressed panic slowly diminishing in her chest. She had had to contend with signs like this every day of her life, and it was very scary at times. She shuddered to think what the populace would do with the kin of the dragon that caused them so much misery so long ago. She knew that in time, she would have to leave society all together; because she was not a true elf, she did age. Very, very slowly, but she would grow old and die someday. What would happen if someone happened to see an elf with wrinkles?

With a meaningful look to Collette (meaning that she should stay in her room with her muffins) Radae stood and followed Shade out the door. When she had crossed the threshold and stood at the door of the Inn, Shade melted against the wall with his cloak and became almost invisible.

He had doubted the wisdom of this- since Radae's elf eyes should be able to pick him out right away, and when she saw him would think he was hiding. But her eyes passed over him several times, and her keen elf ears did not pick up the sound of his breathing. He watched in amazement as she walked right by him and faded into the gathering darkness.

[Judge Simon]

Shade watched as she managed to not see him. He knew there was something off about her...Any elf young or old could have picked him out in some sense. And as he recalled Elves never snorted he called her over to him and she looked relieved.
Shade-Bit late to be wandering about like that. You looked about blind...whats up? I haven't caused any trouble yet...

[Aradaewen]

"Nothing, I'm fine, just a bit tired." She really looked it. "Um, I was wondering if... eh.. you could just watch the girls" (she meant Collette and Faye) "while I attend a little private business?" Shade looked mystified but agreed, so Radae again faded into the night. As soon as Shade left, he shook himself a little.

Why would an elf be at a loss for words? Or need a hobbit-sitter? Now things were getting wierd... He decided to follow her. He slunk off in the shadow of the wall at a crouch, melting into the shadows. Radae traveled hard and fast, but her pace was not enough to leave Shade behind. She stopped at a river, and Shade flattened himself against a tree.

Radae looked around to make sure that nobody was watching and then began to undress. Shade pulled his head back around the tree respectively during this process, and when he peered around the trunk again, she was in the water up to her shoulders. He watched as she washed her hair and splashed just for the fun of it. This was boring.

Shade was just about to turn back when Radae exploded. When that's what he thought at first. She grew to about fifty times her size. A long snout with hundreds of razor teeth, batlike wings, spiked tail... A dragon!! The dragon's main body color was reddy-gold, like Radae's hair, with black wings and pure gold spikes. That was enough to confirm Shade's suspicion's. Radae was a dragon!

[Judge Simon]

Shade knew that he had met her for a reason. Now that he had her on his side there wouldn't be any army that could stand up against a dragon...thats why she had few true elven ablities. He turned away and went back toward the tavern. He walked in and noticed Collette.
Shade-Hey Collette, lemme buy you a drink.
Even though Collette wasn't at all fond of him, she wasn't about to turn down a free drink. They walked over to the tavern and Shade bought her a pint...

[Morai]

Aranel had found the messenger. After many questions, she found the answer she sought after. The elf wished the man good luck, and a blessing from nature.

An hour later, she arived at the inn. They hadn't noticed her absence. Peculiar, for Radae was an elf, or so it seemed...

[Aradaewen]

The water of the river worked miracles. Radae slipped out of her pitiful elven clothes and into the water. Washing the elven hair was a pain, but she loved how it looked when it was clean and caught the light. With a final check to see that no one was around, she turned dragon.

How wonderfully freeing it was! She stretched out her wings and let out a big yawn. She froze. Her serpentine tongue tasted something on the air. She closed her mouth and smelled the breeze. A human! She swung her head in Shade's direction, and sure enough, there was the creature, sneaking back to the Inn!

She had no doubt that he had started his journey back a few minutes ago and not seen her see him, but panic swelled within her. He was going back to town to report that a dragon was in the area and needed to be destroyed! She was also ticked because he had probably seen her undress, which was her only elven weakness. She quickly reverted to elven form, dragged on her clothes and raced to town.

She burst through the room door...

[Faye Took]

She saw Faye with bags packed and a walking stick in hand. 'Well look who it is! Just to let ya know I'll be leavin now. Good-Bye!' Faye walked out the door humming 'The road goes ever on and on...'

[Judge Simon]

OoC-Gosh darn you Faye! smilies/frown.gif

--BiC--
Shade looked up at Radae, she looked like she could shoot fireballs at him. She walked over to Shade
Radae-WE need to talk[and she stormed off to a more private room]
Shade rolled his eyes and followed her. They went into a room and Radae shut the door.
Radae-Where were you a few minutes ago?
Shade-I was having a pint with Collette! What wrong?
Radae slapped him across the face
Radae-Don't lie to me! Where were you?
Shade-In the forest, but surely being an elf you knew that.
Radae-You followed me?
Shade-Indeed, I saw enough to put 2 and 2 together.
Radae-What?
Shade-Radae, please...I saw. I saw your transformation. I didn't need to hide that from me. I knew you weren't fully an elf. But I never would have said, dragon...

[ColletteTook]

Collette ran after faye,down the cobblestone road.
"what do ya think your doing?" she begged.
"im leaving." she said simply, continuing to walk. "I dont have to worry about 'spies' now. good day to you.I will see you when you have enough sense to come home."
Collette stopped for a moment in the street and watched her walking away. "Your scared." Collette said.
"I am not!" Faye turned around haugtily, and burst anger from her emotional depths. "I just want to be normal dont you get it?! Hobbits dont fight wars Collette! They stay home and eat muffins and throw parties and HAVE FUN! DYING DOES NOT SOUND LIKE FUN TO ME!" she practically shrieked, ramapaging up to her little sisters face.
" EVERYONE DIES FAYE!" collette screamed back, tears starting. "IT ONLY DEPENDS ON HOW IT HAPPENS AND WHAT YOU MADE OF YOUR LIFE! IF YOU WANT TO DIE DEFENDING YOUR PEOPLE, IN SOME CHANCE THAT THEY MAY NOT SUFFER THE FATE OF MURDER, YOUR DEATH WILL BE HONRED. DYING ALONE IN A HOBBIT HOLE WITHOUT DOING ANYTHING PRODUCTIVE IN YOUR LIFE IS LIFELESS, YOU AS WELL DIE LIVING THAN LIVE A LIFE OF DEATH. GO HOME FAYE! YOU WILL SEE WHAT YOU MISS THOSE MANY YEARS AGO. YOU WILL SEE IT MISS THIS HOUSE, AND THAT HOUSE AND COME AFTER YOU!" (quote from "twister")
Faye's face softened and quickly retorted back to rage. "By Elbereth, IS THAT WHAT YOU THINK IT DID COLLETTE? FIGHTING IN A WAR ISNT GOING TO BRING HIM BACK! HES DEAD! GET OVER IT!!!!!" she said, shaking her sister's shoulders.
Collette uttered a sob, as Faye pushed her away and left.
"ow." she muttered, scratching her arm, as a rash started, to her horror she realized she ate a blueberry muffin when she was allergic to blueberries (courtesy of aradaewen's reply who made me eat the muffin without picking the blueberries out first, when i did so many posts before stating clearly that i was allergic smilies/biggrin.gif HEHE! OH WELL!)
A thin rash was starting up her arm as she itched incessantly and went beack into the inn, holding back her tears.

[ September 10, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[Aradaewen]

<>OMIGOSH! I'm so sorry!! smilies/frown.gif Okay, changed the post- no blueberries! You don't need a rash! smilies/wink.gif<>

As Collette had her clash with Faye, Radae was venting her rage on Shade. "Alright! Out with it!" she screamed, "Are you going to tell everybody that there's a dragon around? Then they can come, force me to change, and kill me! Is that what you want?!" For a minute, her rush of emotions drained her, and she collasped onto the edge of the bed, put her head in her hands and cried. Shade looked a little surprised that Radae would take this viewpoint of the situation. He gazed rather intently at Radae's slightly heaving shoulders and said, "No, that's not it at all..."

[Judge Simon]

Shade walked over to her and placed his hand on her shoulder, she seemed to cringe at his touch.
Shade-I'm not going to tell anyone, why would I, and who would believe me if I did? Radae[He said slowly turning her to face him]I never wanted you dead, or anyone else I am traveling with.[he said as almost out of nowhere produced a soft cloth for Radae to dry her tearstreaked face, Radae looked up at him and to her his face seemed to have a change. It wasn't so sharp and harsh, and his eyes noted tenderness, she took the cloth from him and walked away, over to the fireplace]
Shade-Radae, I need you to help me...

[Aradaewen]

Radae accepted the cloth, and gently wiped away her tears. She had barely any energy; most of it had been lost running into town and then in her furious tirade against Shade. She shook her head at the fire, and blinked away her own fire in her eyes. "How am I supposed to help you?" Shade walked over and stood beside Radae again. When he opened his mouth to speak, he voice grew hard and icy...

<>I could change this if it is not what you had in mind...<>

[Morai]

Aranel listened to their conversation. Just as she thought, Radae wasn't an elf. Since dragons were rare (especially good ones, it took Aranel some time to realize this. She walked over to the counter. Then the elf ordered her favortie, honey ale. She sat there sipping, deep in thought...

[Faye Took]

As Faye was walking down the road kicking stones along the way she heard strage voices behind some trees. Faye quietly sneaked over to see who it was. By her surprise there where orcs! Faye gasped and ducked behind a bush. They where speaking in the black touge so she couldn't understand them. She noticed they had some muffins! Muffins! she muttered to herself. As the orcs turned away she quickly grabbed some and began to run. 'THEIF THEIF!' the orcs cried in the regular tounge. 'GET BACK HERE YOU FITHLY LITTLE HOBBIT! WE'LL CUT OFF YOUR HEAD WHEN WE CATCH YOU!' Faye began to run faster. She was running to the Inn. She could have run in the other direction but instead she decide to stay and help with her fellow companions! Faye burst through the door and saw Shade, Radae and Collette all looking at her. She huffed and puffed and was very weary. 'Well look whos come back.' said Collette alittle agrey. 'Leave something?'
'...........ORCS!' Faye finally said. 'WHAT DID YOU DO FAYE!' Collette cried. 'I...couldn't resist!....MUFFINS!' Faye dropped the muffins onto the floor as they rolled all about.

[ColletteTook]

<< whoo, what a nice little phone call wasnt that Faye? I really screwed things up...>>


"you are the only one i know Faye," She said angrily."Who is obsessed enough to take muffins from even an ORC!"
She pulled ehr up and stared at the ugly looking muffins. Orc cries were heard from not far off, giving only enough time to draw swords and start slashing.

[Judge Simon]

Hearing the cries of the orcs and the hobbits, Shade looked of to Radae,
Shade-We'll finish our discussion later[he said darkly as he drew is sword and went outisde through the window. The orcs had already arrived. They were some seriously ugly orcs. Shade didn't care though, he had seen worse. Shade drove a sword into one of the brutes and it stuck fast. Shade whipped outa short black knife and stuck it into an orc that had been creeping up behind him then......

[ColletteTook]

Collette finished off the last orc with a fancy twist of her sword.
She got up and sighed, not harmed majorly but had many small nicks where she had mostly hacked herself as she aimlessly threw her sword at any flesh she could reach, including her own.
Radae seemed almost pleased at the perfect timing of the orcs.
"shant be stealing from what you cant handle now will we?" She scolded her sister, and began to leave.
Collette had yet to forgive her for reopening that wound...

[Judge Simon]

Shade-Lets get out of here[he said as he mounted his own horse] Come on, unless you want to stick around to explain all this.[Shade took off down the lane and from the sound of it so had the rest.

[Aradaewen]

Radae leaned into Narwa the stallion's neck, his dark red mane flying behind him and framing her face with the glow of the sunset. She straightened, drew her bow from its holder and an arrow from the quiver at her back, and shot an orc in the throat with a neat snapshot that she had definately picked up from the elves. Perhaps Shade and Collette shared the same thought that maybe she should have justed turned dragon and roasted the whole lot of orcs into charcoal... She didn't, but after that, the orcs did not chase them out in the open- they were very wary of anything with a bow.

[Elfking]

<>OOC- Hey y'all, this is really Aradaewen and I'm using this screenname so I can RP my male roles and not get them mixed up with my chick ones! smilies/wink.gif<>

They rode hard for a long time, well into the night. Radae, Aranel, and Shade, who rode horses, probably would've left Collette and Faye in the dust. Radae, however, made them measure their pace for the hobbits' ponies. Collette looked quite grateful for this. smilies/wink.gif Orcs would periodically pop out from behind the scenery and launch surprise attacks. These were dealt with by Radae and anyone else who didn't have a bow... smilies/wink.gif

[ColletteTook]

Collette was happy for th next few days.
The many slayings of Orcs had kept her drunken-murderous side in check.
She had a sick and estranged infatuation for blood and the way that flesh tears beneath a blade. The only thing Radae had to stop her from was killing the Orcs slowly and cruelly, for they didnt have the time or stomach to endure the hobbits sick tortures, even against orcs....

[Aradaewen]

Even for against the standards of dragons, Collette was brutal and bloodthirsty. Radae had to practically tie her to the saddle of her pony so that she would not torture the orc bands any more than was necessary. Her bow and Aranel's sword, along with Shade's throwing knives, made short work of any foes, and Collette's whirlwind slaughter only put her in danger of being hit by unintentional stray arrows or blades. Neither Collette nor Radae looked happy with the new arrangement, but it had to be...

[ September 14, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[Morai]

<<Aranel has only a sword>>

Aranel quietly hummed a song in her head. It was an old tune. The words spoke of hope and encouragement. She would need many in the days ahead.

[Faye Took]

Faye had her hand on her sword just incase of anything unatural fleeing out of the dark shadows of the trees. Watching the forests with wide eyes she slowly pulled out her sword and sniffed the air. 'I smell evil about.' she mutted quietly to herself eyeing Shade.

[Judge Simon]

They traveled without trouble for a few more days...when they came upon a bridge. As they were about half way across it they were attacked by orcs from all sides. Radae and the rest fought them off the best they could, but when the battle was over, Shade had disappeared. He had riden with great speed into the woods and he was soon untraceable. He rode for many days until he came to his destination. The Great Black Spire of Orthanc was within sight and he rode with all his might toward it. He disamounted his horse and fouund the Sauraman had come to meet him.
Shade-Master,[he said lowering his head]
Sauraman-It has been too long, Shade. What news of your mission?
Shade-Its going well, we're right on schedule. But I am not strong enough to carry out the final tasks...
Sauraman-Come with me and I will give you the power that you need.

Shade followed Sauraman into the dark tower. They walked until they reached his throne room when Sauraman reached for his staff. Before Shade knew what was going on, Sauraman hit him with a great white energy. It came form his staff in the form of white lightening. Shade screamed in the darkness and the lighting raised off his skin in ridges. then Sauraman stopped and Shade laid on the floor, smoke rising from his body. Then, he stood up. He felt a great surge of power running through his veins.
Sauraman-You now have the power for which you have seeked. You can run faster, think quicker and endure more than any other man. And now that you have this power, I expect results...
Shade-Yes Master. And you will have them...

Shade took off from the tower and went straight to Mordor were his army was fighting the enemy. Sauraman had decided to fight the war in Mordor, away from his fortress, which was pretty smart on his part. Shade rode into the camp and found Jakeem. Form his horse, Shade shouted to Jakeem to follow a new plan of attack. One where the army would attack from behind there by ensnaring the enemy. Jakeem nodded to Shade, and again Shade was off. This time he would travel back to the small group that was approaching ever closer to the world of ruin he was now leaving behind him. After a few days of travel he returned and saw Radae by a stream. Must have just transformed back to human form, Shade thought. Shade accidently stepped on a branch that made his prescence known to her.
Shade-Miss me?

[Faye Took]

Faye saw Shade return from his where abouts. Now where has he been Faye muttedered to herself. I better follow him. Faye quickly ran threw the trees and saw Radae and Shade. She quickly hid behind a bush and quietly listened to there conversation. Hmmm. Something must be going on between them two. There always together. Or maybe..., Faye giggled,Maybe Shade has a crush on Radae!! Faye silently weezed in laughter. She stopped laughing and then started to listen again.

[ColletteTook]

<< ARGH! I KNEW ITT! I KNEEEEEEW IT! WHAT DID I TELL YOU GUYS!? I KNEEEEEEEEEEW IT! *bites Judge Simon in the leg for being evil (again)*>>

Collette tapped Faye on the shoulder, making her jump. Faye went into a fit of giggles and pointed out shade and radae. SHe watched with Faye, suspiciously, but found nothing. She shrugged and wakled away to saddle up.

[Faye Took]

Faye skipped over to Collette looking very utterly happy and gigglely. 'Have you noticed Shade and Radae always off together?' Faye bounched in place. 'Yes. What are you going at Faye?' said Collette. 'I think someones in love!'Faye began to giggle. 'Oh please Faye. Just because there always around eachother dosen't mean they like eachother.' Faye's stopped bouncing.'I guess your right. But they always are talking and stuff.'
'And you know this,how ?' Collette eyed Faye.
'Well, uh, SO I'M NOSIE BIG DEAL!' Faye began to blush madly. 'I like to know whats going on.'
'Believe what you want Faye.' said Collette continuing to saddle up again.

[Morai]

Aranel watched the hobbits talk. "Those creatures are so enjoyable to watch. Ah, the carefree life in the Shire.She thought to herself. The elf took some lembas out of her sack and ate it.

[Aradaewen]

Radae whirled around (which is harder than it looks in water) "Shade!" She lowered herself deeper into the shadowy depths to be sure he couldn't see a thing. "Actually, yes, we have missed you. I assume it would be too much to ask where you went and why?" She eyed him with such intense dislike and mistrust that he almost stepped back a pace. She gave him the impression that she knew what he was doing. Suddenly, Radae swung her head to one side and called, "It's alright, you can come out." Faye and Collette exited their hiding place, looking shamefaced. "We were absolutely silent," Collette protested, "How did you know we were here?" Radae smiled humorlessly. "It's a dragon thing."

[Judge Simon]

OoC-Oh Collette...you don't know anything[bites her back]

Shade-I was up to my old business again, as usual...[he said smirking and there was an unnatural glow to his eyes] So, lets get moving shall we? Still off to fight the forces of evil, I assume?

[Faye Took]

'Orcs!' said Faye her eyes looking around cautiously. 'Where, where?' she pulled out her sword. 'Let me at em', let me at em'! I'll chew their arms off until they beg for mercy!'

[Aradaewen]

<>WHAT IS IT WITH THE LEG BITING?!?!<>

Radae had had enough. She turned dragon with a mighty roar that made Faye and Collette jump a mile high, and pinned Shade to the ground between her claws in the blink of an eye. "I want to know what is going on," she growled murderously, "You leave without trace for several days with no word to us, then you show up from out of the blue with "Miss me?" That doesn't tally in my book, Shade. What were you doing?" Despite Shade's newly bestowed strength and cunnning, the fact that he was eye to eye with a furious dragon really set his knees quaking. He could barely answer, but when he did it was with icy sarcasm...

[Faye Took]

Faye watched stupiedly at the two. She looked at Collette and then back at Shade and Radae. 'Yea you tell him Radae!' Faye said. Faye giggled at the site of the two pratically eye to eye. Faye nudge Collette in the arm and Collette gave Faye and smile and turned back to the conversation.

[Judge Simon]

OoC-We were just being our evil little selves smilies/evil.gif Mwahahahaha!!!

--BiC--

Shade looked up into her eyes[and I detest the fact that you sent my legs quaking!] and he answered her...
Shade-I was consulting with Sauraman what else would I be doing, according to you and Collette. Apparently thats all I do! My own counsel I will keep on what I tell you and what I don't! How far would you get into Mordor or even Orthanc? Without me how far would you get? You would be brought before Sauraman and beg for death before he would show such mercy![he shouted with fury, Radae transformed back into elven state and Shade stood quickly up. There was quite a distance between them]
Radae-I think we would conquer him and bring peace back to Middle Earth.
Shade-Peace...peace is a notion for the romantic, foolish, and for those who can't accept the real world[he said with his back turned to her and then he turned to face her as he spoke again and there was a eerie calmness in his voice]...How long would your peace last? A month? A year maybe? There never will be peace in Middle Earth...

[ September 16, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[ColletteTook]

<< argh! *aqngrily grabs a headfull of Judge Simons hair, and cuts it off with cheap, plastic scissors for biting her back* YOU EVIL SARUMAN MINION YOU! smilies/biggrin.gif >>
"Then what are you fighting for?" Collette asked softly to him. Or was he even fighting for peace...He question would linger about her head for many days.
Meanwhile, Faye was looking at him with a face of such admiration, it was making Collette sick. Faye undoubtedly was impressed marvelously with his little speech and his cunning little lies, and Colette decided to let her live it.
Collette rolled her eyes at Faye who stared admiringly at the pair of them. Almost hero-worship it seemed to her as Faye became Shade's little shadow, following him about constantly bombarding him with stupid questions about anything from swords and orcs to Muffins and fluffy clouds.

[ September 16, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[Aradaewen]

<>*sigh*<>

Radae would not let Shade pessimism ruin her spirits. "Then I will die, if it means giving Middle Earth one day of freedom from scum like you who skulk in the shadows of evil to achieve their own self-centered ends. One day could inspire a year, then a decade, and maybe one day Middle Earth will have peace. One life would be a trivial price to pay for such a wonderful thing. Not that backstabbing sell-outs would understand the significance of that..." She glared at Shade and walked away to saddle up her stallion. Collette gave him a similar look then followed after her friend. As she passed Faye, she had to tug a few times on her sleeve to get her attention. Faye then followed her [sister?] reluctantly...
Shade watched them go, Radae's words ringing in his ears- "Then I will die..."

[ September 17, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[Judge Simon]

OoC-**Grabs collette by her ankles turning her upside down "YOU THICK LITTLE SHRUB!" lets go and Collette falls on head** smilies/evil.gif


--BiC--

Shade gave her a dark look and swung back onto his own horse. They were two days from Mordor[Orthanc?Where were we headed again? The fighting I assumed is in Mordor, Sauraman just hanging around Orthanc] It wouldn't be long before the truth revealed and the veil of mistrust lifted. They headed down the rode, Radae and the other Elf, and Collette followed closely by the other. Shade rode at the back and mulled over the final details of his mission...

[Aradaewen]

<>Saruman has musted troops in Mordor, and when it is safe secured there, he can move in.<>

Radae called Shade to her. He trotted sullenly forward, and looked at her. Her eyes blazed with red fire. "You can ride in front," she said in a low tone, so only he could hear her, "so there are no sneak attacks and so you can guide us, like we took you on to do." Shade nodded grimly and looked like he didn't like this idea much, but he rode ahead and lead them on...

<>Let's go to Orthanc, all his troops are in Mordor<>

[ September 17, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[Judge Simon]

OoC-I figured as much, are we headed to Mordor or Orthanc though?

--BiC--

Shade rode ahead. He didn't like the idea of any of them behind him. He rode on content to his own thoughts, running plans for battle in his head when he heard some one ride up beside him. It was Radae.
Radae-So, if you have no hope for the peace of Middle Earth, why are you here, with us, fighting for it?
Shade-Its what I do, I done this kind of thing since I could wear a sword. Soldier for hire, thats all I am. I once believed in the foolish notion of peace, and it was ripped away from me along with my hope. I've learned to trust and rely on one thing.
Radae-And whats that?
Shade-[turns to look at her] Myself. It would do you good to learn it soon too. Of course I figured a dragon would have already figured that out.

[Morai]

Aranel did not like Shade's view. When she heared of it, a glare appeared in her face.
" It doesn't matter if Middle Earth never has peace. Neither if it's never perfect. All you do is make life better for others."She thought.

[Faye Took]

Faye rode in silence glanceing at Shade in a short of, odd romantic way. Collette glanced over at Faye. She tugged on her sleeve. "Faye...FAYE!' she cried. Faye came out of her stare. 'What, what.' she said smileing at Collette. 'What has gotten into you?'Collette glared at Faye. 'What? Nothing.' replied Faye. She then went back to her stare.

[ September 21, 2002: Message edited by: Faye Took ]

[ColletteTook]

Collette rolled her eyes and made a noise of dissent as she turned away from Faye's look of estranged infatuation that was making her sick.
She had finally lost her friend to 'hero'-worship.
Trotting up in the rear she remained alone grimacing up at the storm that was rolling in. It began to rain, Dampananing their spirits as well as their cloaks and clothing.
They rode all day and late into the night even, a chilly evening Collette thought bitterly at their luck, as Radae tried desperatley to light a fire, but the heavy water drops continued to dampen it, leaving them with nothing but a putrid smoke smell that hung about the camp.

[Faye Took]

'RAIN! YAY! I LOVE RAIN!' Faye twirrled around looking up at the sky. She shook her head side to side as her long, blond hair dripped with rain dropps. 'Come dance with me Collette!' Faye grabbed Collette by the arms and pulled her towards her. She began dancing around Collette. Her eyes glittered with delight and her beauty shone of the rays of the sun, peaking out of the coulds. Faye had never looked so happy before.

[ColletteTook]

<<ARGGGHHH! *chews Judge simon's leg off, so he has to hold on to a wall for support as she conitnues to whack at him with a large chunk of wood>>


Collette mused happliy along with her, and didnt tell Faye how ruined the rest of the muffins were from the rain she loved so much.
Shade entered the camping site, which to Collette, raised a dark cloud over thier happiness. She stopped dancing and sat down haughtily.

[Morai]

When Shade entered, Aranel noticed the different emotions around the camp. Not standing the pressure anymore, she shouted:

"Stop bickering over unimportant things! We can't save Middle Earth like this!"

Everyone stared at the elf. Aranel turned bright red.

[Faye Took]

'Right.' Faye said quietly looking away from Aranel. She stared at the ground thinking about differnt things (or some people smilies/wink.gif). Collette tugged on her sleeve. Faye did not respond, for she had been in deep thought. 'FAYE!' Collette yelled. 'What? What?' Faye studdered. 'What has gotten into you lately?' Collette asked. 'Oh nothing, nothing at all.' But there was something, it was someone. It was Shade who had been in her mind constantly.

[ColletteTook]

<<......?0_o?>>

Collette rolled her eyes obviosly and left her to stand lost in her own little thoughts and musings.
Collette muttered bitterly to herself and crawled under her cloak and went to sleep angrily wihtout another word.

<<excuse the short reply....i didnt exactly know what to say to that>>

[Judge Simon]

OoC- I am shocked and appalled...but in a nice sort of way smilies/tongue.gif

--BiC--

Shade walked through the camp and sat down by a tree that had many leafy branches. It offered a bit of comfort from the pouring rain. Orthanc was close and soon the truth would be know, about him, about everything. He shuddered. They would probably reach Orthanc by nightfall the next day. Life was going to get hard. Then__________came over to him...

[Aradaewen]

<>How about Faye?<>

Radae sat beside her unsuccessful fire, with a thoroughly wet Collette shivering, wrapped in both her own cloak and Radae's. Collette's eyes narrowed as she watched Faye cross the little clearing and sit next to Shade, chatting cheerfully. Radae liked it no better. She put her arm around her buddy and squeezed her to make her feel better. smilies/tongue.gif Collette sort of half-hugged her back- as much as she could with her body straight-jacketed in cloak cloth...

[ September 19, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[Judge Simon]

Faye-And then my cousin, well not really cousin more like my second half--
Shade interrupted with a laugh.
Shade-You hobbits, you can make a bad sitution merrier...I don't imagine many could sit this close to Orthanc and still be so light hearted.
Faye-Its not hard to be happy...[she thought for a minute]...whats does he look like?
Shade-What?[he asked, caught a bit off his guard]
Faye-Sorryman, or whatever his name is...
Shade-What makes you think I know what Sauraman looks like?
Faye-Collette said thats where you had been.
Shade-Of course she did. She never did warm up to me did she?
Faye-Nope, well maybe a little in the very beginning but not really...
Shade-I thought as much.
Faye-Tell me of your travels...

Shade looked down a the wet little hobbit, and launched off into tales of his exploits, she would often interject with questions and Shade was happy to answer them. A hour or so passed in this fashion and then Faye, being tired, fell asleep. Shade and her were sitting under the tree and Shade had put his arm around her, now he couldn't get his arm away if he tried. Hobbits have a death grip, he thought...when someone came over to talk and get a little refuge from the rain...

[Aradaewen]

Radae slumped against a tree trunk, Collette asleep curled up on the ground beside her and Shade on the other side of the clearing with his arm around a slumbering Faye. She looked at him, and he at her, and for an instant their eyes met. Radae looked away quickly- looked outside where the rain fell in torrents. She was surprised that the trees held it out off of them. She thought it a pity that dragons didn't have the magic to do that- they could only burn trees to the ground. Perhaps some passing elves had also sheltered here some time ago and enchanted this place to stay somewhat dry. She was still regretful about her spoiled fire attempt. She caught movement out of the corner of her eye and turned her head to see Shade staring at her again...

<>You and your compulsive staring... smilies/rolleyes.gif )

[Judge Simon]

OoC-I must learn to control that.

--BiC--

Shade thought it was silly for Radae nad Aranel to sit out in the rain like they were, at least where he was sitting the rain wasn't as bad. He waved them over. Fo a minute he though that they hadn't seen him. And then Aranel came over, followed Radae after a bit of hesitation.
Shade-Tired of the rain huh?

[Aradaewen]

<> smilies/biggrin.gif<>

Aranel shrugged. "An elf does not mind the rain. From the rain sprouts all life..." Shade grinned rather nastily at this mention of elves at Radae. She drew herself up and stalked past him. She looked fed up with his snide remarks so she turned dragon. For a split second Shade thought she was going to chomp him in half, but no.. She took a great breath and blasted a spout of flame onto the defeated fire stack. It blazed merrily at once, and did not go out for awhile. She looked mightily pleased with herself and turned elf again at once.

[Morai]

"You know that's not too smart to do so near to Othranc. Saruman watches over his lands very closely. Who knows what he would do if he discovered a dragon." Aranel stated calmly. She sat down humming a song...

[Aradaewen]

Shade grinned again and Radae looked half ashamed and half defiant. "Well, what's he gonna do about it?" As soon as she said it, she knew there were a LOT of things people could do to get rid of dragons. She knew first-hand about it, since they had got rid of her own brother. She sat down and dejectedly put her head in her hands. To her great relief, Collette woke up at that moment and said with great joy, "It's stopped raining!" Within ten minutes, the small group were on their way again...

[Judge Simon]

They had mounted thier horses and were off at a quick pace. Shade took them onto side roads and hidden trails. So close to Orthanc, Shade knew that to use the road would be folly. They rode on undetected straight into heart of Sauraman's territory. The Great Spike of Orthanc reared it ugly head, but Shade had seen it before and was unmoved, the others however reacted in their way. The two hobbits simply looked up in awe and possibly terror. Aranel looked on it with a hidden wisdom, searching it out for weakness. And Radae, Radae looked on it with intense hate. Shade could feel in coming off her like smoke off a burnt log. They hid in the forest outside the dark tower.
Shade-Alright, we've made it this far now don't go do anything stupid and get caught now. I can't help you through this, I have other business to attend to. My army in Mordor is losing hope of ever winning, they need me. Now I can only give you words of warning about Sarauman. He is cunning and will use words against you, He has far more power than he suggests, and he rarely has feelings of pity toward any enemy. Guard your selves well. Perhaps we will meet again under better circumstances.

Before he could hear any objections, Shade had ridden off toward Mordor. He pushed his horse to go as it would go. He made there incredibly quickly. The battle was going worse than he thought. The troops were ragged, many injured. Shade dismounted his horse and entered in to his tattered camp. He walked over to one of the tents and found two old friends. Jakeem and Dark One were standing over a table that had maps strewn all over it. Jakeem looked up and saw Shade. He went over and hugged him.
Jakeem-Your timing couldn't be better my friend, the men are in need of a leader.
Shade-I'm not so sure I am
Dark One-[dark language]You must be sure of yourself by now, take up your sword and true name, lead the men to victory.[Dark One brought forth a silver sword with red details engraved on it. Shade put out his hand to take it. With the sword firmly inhand Shade stepped over to the table and looked over the maps]
Shade-You've been going about this backwards, draw the orcs over here, then we can attack from behind. How many men left?
Jakeem-3000 maybe less.
Shade-Send word for help to Aragorn, he'll send an army. Til he comes we'll have to work with what we have.

Jakeem left quickly. Dark One put a hand on Shade's shoulder
DarkOne-You will be great leader...Alhuanion...


OoC-Hey if you all don't mind, I'd like to be the fill in for Sauraman[always had a soft spot for him] smilies/evil.gif

[Aradaewen]

<>Fine by me... who's Alhuanion?<>

Radae rode ahead of the group, who followed with Faye and Collette together, and Aranel providing rear guard. They rode boldly through the destroyed territory of the once great outpost, and right up to the gargantuan black monolith that was Orthanc. Not surprisingly, Saruman was there, supposedly waiting for them. "Ahh," the ex-wizard sneered, "All the men have their share of trouble in war, so they send the women to do their messenging. You touch me. How may I help you, my pretty ones?" He swept his hat off in mock courtesy. Radae dismounted and stood before him defiantly. "Saruman! We have come to speak with you. We ask you the first time to reconsider and leave evil behind you. Recall your army and join the side of truth." Saruman's sneer broadened. "Girl! How dare you come to me with visions of peace! There will never be peace in Middle Earth! There is only one truth! Power! Join me and find the real truth..." Unable to stand formalities any longer (its a dragon's weakness) Radae turned dragon with a mighty roar and soared into the air. She sucked in a breath in preparation of flaming the evil wizard to ashes when she was hit with a blast of magic from below and fell to earth with a ground-shuddering crash!

[Judge Simon]

OoC-Just Shade's real name...

--BiC--
Sauraman was no fool. He blasted Radae hard with magic and sent her sprawling to the ground. He fired silver magic at them and went back into the tower...

OoC-OH I am sooo brain-dead now...I am done for tonight... smilies/mad.gif smilies/evil.gif

[Aradaewen]

Faye and Collette watched in open-mouthed horror as Radae's enormous body fell to earth. When she landed, she did not get up. A normal fall like that would not have hurt her much, but obviously the magic bolt had done more damage than knock her out of the air. Their heads turned towards the tower as Saruman once again emerged with a new staff upraised, as if in preparation to strike something down...

Radae felt like the fires of her being had gone haywire and started burning every fiber of her body. Her throat hurt too much to groan in agony. Barely concious, the dragon lay on the ground, taking what comfort she could from its solidity. "Fools!" Saruman cried. Radae could barely hear him through the thick fog of pain surrounding her senses. "Women come to fight the mighty Saruman! Go home and nurse your babies, weaklings. Evil is on the rise, and the dawn of a new dark age is approaching. This is my hour of triumph!" Radae turned elven as one last act of defiance. She heard her own words dimly slogging their way through the painful mire of memory- "Then I will die..." and knew no more...

[Morai]

Aranel shook her head. "Such little patience dragons have."She thought.

When Radae woke up, she was a small distance away from Saruman's tower. When she asked why, Aranel told her. When Radae passed out, Aranel ordered that they flee. They had been there one day planning their next move.

[ September 21, 2002: Message edited by: Morai ]

[Faye Took]

'YOU MEANIE!' Faye screamed at Saruman. 'I'LL BITE YOUR UGLY FACE OFF!' Radae and Collette held Faye back as she tried to launch at the wizard. 'Alas! You must be the hobbit Faye.' Saruman said staring at the hobbit. 'What? You've heard of me? But how?' Saruman turned his back at them. 'So small, but not for long. Soon the truth will be reveild.' he muttered to himself. Faye tried to listen to what he had been saying but she had only heard muttering. Saruman turned back around, 'You soon will know young 'half-ling'.'

[ September 21, 2002: Message edited by: Faye Took ]

[Judge Simon]

--Back in Mordor--

Shade had rallied the troops behind him and they raced down the rough terrian of Mordor. Shade had been given the finest horse in camp and he led the charge straight in to the orc army. The armies met and there was a great crash of swords and maces falling against shields and armor. Shade plunged his sword at various orcs. A stray orc arrow hit his horse and Shade was thrown to the grown. He stood up quickly and continued to fight. his clothes and armor was quickly covered with black sticky blood of the orcs. Shade looked around to try and see how the rest of the army was doing. They seemed to have the upper hand for the moment. An orc came up behind Shade and stuck him in the back with a knife. Shade turned around, ripped the knife out of his back and threw it into the orc's head. They kept fighting on and on into the night...

[Aradaewen]

--Meanwhile in Orthanc--

Faye and Saruman continued to shout at each other for a long time. While they were doing this, Aranel and Collette were some way off, trying to bring Radae around. It was hard to do. The spell shot at her by Saruman still left her with lingering aches and pains. When Faye came back, she was very angery. "We'll get him, by the Valar we will," was all she would say. After Faye had calmed down somewhat, the four sat down to some serious thinking about the possible ways to get inside Orthanc. Radae, in elven form, turned to Aranel, "My friend, is there any magic your pipe [flute, whatever] can do for us that can get us inside that tower?"

[Morai]

"I have heared legends of ent creatures nearby. It may be possible for my fife to rouse them." She answered. Radae seemed to be in deep thought...

[Faye Took]

Faye sat on a rock with a hand on her face. She looked at the ground in deep thought. You will soon know, young half-ling. Sarumans voiced passed through her thoughts.'What did he mean by that?' Faye muttered to herself. 'Is there someting about me I don't know and he does?'

[ColletteTook]

Collette ran to a very frustrated looking Faye, who was sitting with her head in her hands bent in confusion in anger.
'Faye what happened"
She asked concerned. "In time you will son know" she muttered repeating sarumans quote in an eerie tone.
"What?" Collette said, very frghtned.
Faye began to cry. "I am sick of this form," came a voice from her mouth, though it was nto hers. "What is wrong???" said Collette trying to shake back her sister.
The tears sliding down Fayes cheeks looked like it was washing away her skin and something else was beneath. Collette watched bewilderly terrified.

[Faye Took]

Faye's hair began to get longer and brighter. Her face was fair and even more beautiful that an elf. Her skin was pure and smooth. Faye grew, almost as tall as an elf. She reached up to about 5'9. She had a beautiful flowing dress on that put the company in awe. She sang out with joy to be herself again. Her voice was so pure and beautiful that yet none of the creatures in Middle-Earth could sing like that.

[ September 21, 2002: Message edited by: Faye Took ]

[Judge Simon]

--Mordor again--

The heat of battle was intense. Shade's face was dirty with sweat, blood and dirt. They were winning but unless more help came...Shade didn't want to think about it. Then a horn sounded from the distance. Shade looked up and saw a great white army coming from the East. Aragorn had come and with a great army. Shade smiled and shouted. The men looked and also saw the great army coming. Then Shade slumped to the ground. His chest hurt and it was hard to breathe. Shade forced himself to stand up and as soon as he did, the pain went away. But he knew something was wrong. He mounted a riderless horse and raced to Orthanc. About a mile before he reached the tower he heard a beautiful song. He pulled his horse to a halt to hear it better. Shade dismounted and walked silently toward it. He saw that it was his compainions. Radae appeared to be knocked out, Aranel and Collette seemed alright. But there was someone new and Faye was nowhere in sight...

[Faye Took]

Faye turned and saw Shade standing, and looking at her. 'Welcome back Shade.' Faye walked over and kissed him on the cheek. 'Tis' I, Faye.' Shade looked at the new Faye confused. 'You're not Faye. She is a hobbit!' Faye smiled at Shade. 'There is something I must tell you.' Faye got closer to Shade. 'It is me, Faye. I was put in Hobbit form so that no one could find me. I am a desendant from the Valar. There are yet none left of my kind. I am the only one. I was all alone, fighting for myself untill I met Radae, Collette, Aranel, and especially you, Shade. I love you.'

[Judge Simon]

Shade furrowed his brow and wore an expression of confusion.
Shade-Wait a minute here[he said walking toward the center of their small camp]Just wait a minute here[he looked over his shoulder back at the new and improved Faye smilies/tongue.gif ] What happened here? Whats wrong with Radae? I came back because I felt something was wrong.[he wiped his forehead with the back of his hand] If we're going to get rid of Sauraman it has to be now. Our force is driving his army down. I have to sit down a moment.

Shade sat on the ground and shut his eyes. Too much information at once. Shade ran his hand through his hair and thought for a minute or two.
Shade-Alright heres what we have to do, Collette I want you to stay with Radae til she comes around. Aranel, you, I and Faye will go back to the tower under the cover of dark...til then, we rest cause I'm beat.

The night fell quickly Shade and the others where ready to go but before they set off Shade pulled Faye aside.
Shade-Faye, I know you will not understand, but I can't let myself love you. I have a past that won't let me...please...don't think your love is in vain, you will find someone who can love you in a way I never can...

[Faye Took]

Faye looked at Shade and began to cry.'I don't think thats will happen,'Faye said softly,'I will never find anyone else.' Tears started streeming down Faye's face. She couldn't stand to her those words come out of her one and only love. She began to run away to Isenguard. Faye stopped at the door. Anger was filled inside of her. She set her hand on the door and a bright light shot through the door opening it. 'SARUMAN!' She cried. 'COME OUT YOU COWARD!' Saruman shot a bolt of energy at Faye, but luckly it missed her. They began to fight. Saruman and Faye shot fire ball's, and energy waves at eachother for sometime. They had both been very powerful. Saruman shot a huge light at her shoulder that made her fall back. She struggled getting up holding her hand over her shoulder as it bleed a dark red. 'YOU'LL PAY FOR THAT!' Faye roared at Saruman.

[Judge Simon]

Shade-Come on Aranel[he said and he and Aranel broke into a run after Faye when they got there, Faye had already been hurt Shade ran out and pulled Faye away from Sauraman]
Sauraman-Shade...nice to see you again,

--Ooc--done for tonight!

[Faye Took]

Faye was angry that she was hurt. 'I'LL GET YOU FOR THAT SARUMAN!' She cried out and began to fight him yet once again. Saruman got hit by one of her blasts and fell to the ground. 'You Fool! Look what you've done!' Saruman said angerly. 'Now you will feel the rath of my power!'

[Morai]

Saruman was in Aranel's head this time."Wouldn't you love to have more power? I can help..."He was interrupted.

"I will never join you or your master. Your ork armies are an inslult to every elf that exists." She shouted with a glare.

[Judge Simon]

Shade walked towards Saurman
Sauraman-Ah, my friend, you have returned.

Shade drew his sword

Sauraman-Ah and I see you have accepted your past, Alhurion. Now, take your place at my side.
Shade-You are as blind as you are old Sauraman, I used you and your power...
Sauraman-Then I will just have to take it back[Sauraman shot white magic at Shade(Alhurion) held up his sword and it seemed to absorb it, Sauraman stopped and cursed quietly under his breath. Shade dashed toward him with his sword raised but sauraman shot him to the ground with magic. Then a roar was heard over them. It was Radae in dragon form , she breathed fire on Orthanc and Sauraman. Orthanc was engulfed in flame...

[ColletteTook]

From the ground, Collette stared at the flaming tower blankly, being left behind once more. <<*COUGHS* ahem! judge simon! ahem! *saddened glare*>>

She wondered vaguely if they were still up there, and had plenty of time to wonder, gloomily sitting on a rock, knowing nothing else to do.
Lost was her own realm of being, and now (to her dismay and horror) she was the smallest and weakest of this group. What good was she now? Her alledged sister was a valar in disguise, and here Collette stood amounst Shade (need i type more), a dragon , Faye the valar and an elf warrior. She would always be more of a hinderance than a help, she always had been.
But something inside her stirred in anger. was it possibly...pride? Mayhaps, no one would ever know. She drew her sword with a yell and raced up the steps into the tower.

[ September 24, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[Judge Simon]

oOc-Don't even try to pin this one on me...You could have easily been riding on Radae's back in glory, I left it very VERY open....

[ColletteTook]

*childish pout and guilty blush*

[Aradaewen]

<>UPDATE: I will only be able to get online on Mondays and Thursdays after my chores are done- that's about 4:30 EST. Now I REALLY want to name the first hobbit-baby (if its a girl) Faye! Collette... *winkwink nudgenudge smilies/biggrin.gif*<>

<>OOC- I'll help!<> BIC- Radae turned around and nudged at Collette perched on her shoulders just below the wings. "Do it again!" she cried, pulling slightly on the dragons webbed bony ears. "I'll aim!" Peering along the dragon's snout, she screamed, "Fire!" And fire came! Soon not only Orthanc, but the entire hill was on fire. Radae blew it out with a single fireless gust from her mouth and the whole scene lay before them in smoky, ashy ruin. Collette leaped lightly down from her friend's back and sifted through the blackened remains until she found the wizard-staff, which even dragonflame cannot destroy. "It is finished." Radae said with truimph.

[ September 30, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[Morai]

"Well, it looks as if my help was never needed." Aranel said sarcastically. "By the way, next time you might want to ask the ents before torching their territory." She shouted walking off.

[ColletteTook]

<< How ironic. I wanted to name the first hobbit baby faye!>>

Collette, who was laughing insanely at the burning territory, she who has a sick obsession for blood and setting aflame, suddnely turned serious as Aranel showed an unseen emotion.
"What would make you think that when we could not have done this without you?" Collette asked seriously.

[Faye Took]

OOc: WHAT? I'm confused!

'We all did this together Arnael.' Faye said watching her.

OOC: Sorry this is short.

[Morai]

" I was planning on disscussing with the ents on taking them with us to Mordor. Since they'd be already angry, I wouldn't go near them. Ents are very stubborn." Aranel said back-stepping a bit.

[Aradaewen]

<>Faye- It has to do with Elves and Hobbits RPG- Part II. smilies/biggrin.gif *sneaking comp* smilies/evil.gif <>

Radae turned elf again with a very apologetic look on her face. "I very sorry, Aranel, I.. I didn't think..." "That," Aranel snapped, "was obvious!" Radae stopped talking, looking very dejected. Collette attemped to save the situation. "Maybe we should go apologize to the Ents?"

[ColletteTook]

" maybe we should go apologize to the ents?"
Everyone snapped a glare at her, making her feel dejected as well.
" okay, it was a suggestion, erm, you know when they find out they will probably kill us...." she murmered and mused once more, the sight of the burning tower remains.

<<sry its short>>

[Morai]

"Very nice suggestion Collette. You can come with me if you keep your mouth closed. Also don't hurt any trees on the way. They might be ents. It'd be best if only Collette and I go." Aranel said, turning to the rest. "Ents respond well to elves. I'm not sure about hobbits though." She stated.

[Aradaewen]

"Oh they'll like this hobbit!" Radae said, winking at Collette. She seemed to feel a little better, since she wasn't going to see the Ents. "She's the niece of an Ent-friend: Pippin Took, aren't you, me girl?" Collette grinned back and gave her a hug. Radae handed her her knapsack. "Here, you can have my foodsack. You'll need it more than I do. I'm sure I can scrounge up a deer or two somewhere." A fierce orange light lit her eyes for one brief instant, and she licked her lips. Collette laughed.

[ September 30, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[Faye Took]

'Well then,' began Faye, 'Off to the Ent!' The company traveled for some time. Shade was leading and then came Radae, Faye, Collette, and Aranel. They sky grew cloudy and dark. Pretty soon after that the stars came out and the moon could be seen peeking through one of the clouds. 'Shall we rest here tonight?' Faye asked runnnig over to an open area surounded by trees.

[Judge Simon]

OoC- Hold up I thought just Aranel and Collette were going...

[Faye Took]

OoC: I'm confused...

[Aradaewen]

<>OOC- sorry, dear, only Aranel and Collette are going. Don't worry- we'll play Yahtzee! smilies/wink.gif<>

Radae watched Collette trot off behind Aranel with a little regret. With her secret, Collette was pretty much her only friend. Now she was stuck with two lovebirds who would probably spend the whole time in each other's arms. smilies/rolleyes.gif She pulled off her vest (not her tunic) and fluffed it up as best she could, then curled up around it, her red hair flaming around her face and over her shoulders, and at a glance, she looked very much like her true dragon self. She passed into slumber almost at once.

[ColletteTook]

Collette ran after Aranel, her stirdes four times too big for the three foot hobbit.
Sweat coarsed down her face, even in the cold evening, lugging a pack that weighed more than herself.
"Whyyyy?" she panted "Must we keep this pace, remind me?"
"So we can get back to the group as soon as possible" Aranel repeated firmly (for about the seventh time)
"Im hungry!" Collette moaned.
"You not going to die" Aranel said. The thought was a bit unbelievable to Collette.
"Can we just-" "
"NO"
"But-"
"NO

[Morai]

Aranel tried her best to stiffle her anger. Without warning, she scooped up Collete.

"Hey! I can carry myself! I do DO NOT NEED YOUR HELP!" Collette protested.

Aranel only roled her eyes...

[Judge Simon]

Shade sat by the fire. He felt very out of place. He needed to return to his army. He felt very useless here. Shade looked at his sword in the fire, the red lettering glinted in the firelight.

[ColletteTook]

Collette's protestive shrieks rented the air. "Let go!" she flailed helplessly for about an hour, and finally gave up and fell asleep on Aranel's shoulder.
When dark, Aranel heaved her off, like a sack to the ground. Collette snorted in anger from merely being stirred away from her dreams.
She had been back in the Shire with Faye- at a party (drunk) - one of her most favored pastimes....
Aranel grunted evilly as rain began to pour down upon them and dampened the fire to a dull smelly smoke.

[Faye Took]

Faye sat silently rapping her cloak around her. She put her hood up to keep the rain of her head. She silently cried frusterated about forgeting her past as a Valar, her family and friends all gone, she is all alone.

[Judge Simon]

Shade sheathed his sword and stood up. He squinted up at the rain and drew up his dark hood. Shade whistled for his horse which caught Faye's attention. She walked over to him just as his horse came up.
Faye-Where are you off to now?
Shade-I've got to go back to my men in Mordor, I can't stay here, sitting around doing nothing. They're counting on me. You're welcome to come if you like.

Faye smiled and as Shade got on his horse, Faye jumped on behind him. Shade was off at a furious pace and Faye had to cling to him just to stay on the horse. As they reached Mordor, the air grew heavy again and land grew rougher. As they reached the camp, many of the soldiers who weren't too badly wounded were in the hospital tent. Shade dismounted his horse and walked toward his own tent. The Dark One was there but Jakeem was gone.
Shade-[dark speech] Where is Jakeem?
DarkOne-In the hospital tent. but do not fear, he will recover.[Dark one quickly added seeing the fear that had showed in Shade's face]
Shade-The battle? What was the outcome?
DarkOne-We beat the orc army down they are scattered now and without a leader. Tell me Alhuanion, do you feel ready to take up the claim and birthright of your fathers? Do you feel that you have finally earned it?
Shade-I still have business to do, I wish to speak of it no more.

Faye had just entered the tent at this point.

[Faye Took]

Faye looked at Shade and Dark One.

'Why is she here Shade?' Dark One asked.

'She wished to come along with me.' Dark One eyed her and walked away.

'How is everything?' Faye asked walking up to Shade.

'Everything is OK. The orc army has fled, yet there are many men wonded.' Faye looked around the tent and saw all the men. She lowered her head. 'I'm sorry to hear that Shade. I wish I could help.'

[ October 06, 2002: Message edited by: Faye Took ]

[Aradaewen]

Radae awoke some hours later (dragons are sound sleepers). She yawned and stretched, noting the fact that she seemed to have reverted to dragon form in her sleep. She also was very hungry. She spread her wings and took to the air. Soon she brought down a skinny, undersized deer, but it was all there was to be had, and she ate it. When she returned to camp, she realized that it was deserted. She sniffed around, and found human footprints and horse hoofprints heading off into the southeast.
They were several hours old, which told Radae that if she had been a little more observant, she would have noticed that Shade and Faye had left before she even woke up. Somehow, she was positive that they had gone into Mordor, but she wondered why they would not ask her to go with them, or at least inform her that they were leaving. Radae decided to fly after Collette and Aranel, as they would be returning to Orthanc after their business was complete and would have no clue where the others were. She would go to them.
She once again spread her wings and soared into the upper atmosphere. She glided easily along and soon spotted, after about 20 minutes, the small figures of the elf and hobbit. She furled her wings and dived noiselessly, swooping over their heads. Both girls shrieked and ducked, and Radae laughed chuckling. When Aranel and Collette saw who it was, they started laughing too. When they were done, Radae filled them in about Faye and Shade.
"So you see, I followed you to tell you where they had gone- I don't think I'd have nearly as much trouble figuring out their whereabouts as you would. I dropped by to fill you in, but now what do I do? Do I proceed with you or go help Shade and Faye in Mordor?" There was silence as hobbit and elf digested the dragon's information and thought about their answers.

[Judge Simon]

Shade nodded solomly at Faye and left the tent. Walking out into camp everything was still. Shade thought this was odd. Then the attack came without warning. It was the last attempt of a desperate orc army. They attacked without mercy and with a terrible fury. Shade was caught off guard and barely had time to draw his sword. The orcs had surrounded him and were fingering their cruel weapons. The blow came from the side. A sharp bash to the head from an orc scimter. Shade fell on his knees. The attack of the army around them was deafening. Men screaming, orc shrieking out. A blade was plunged into Shade's side. Shade could only watch, dumbstuck by the chaos around him. Another knife and then an axe. Shade didn't remember anything at all. Life went black and Shade passed out of it.

[Aradaewen]

Radae quite suddenly changed to elven form, doubled in a firey stab of pain, like a blade thrust through her midriff. Aranel and Collette rushed to her side with cries of concern. "Something had happened." Radae gasped. "I don't know. I have to leave. Mordor. You two carry on to the Ents." She would not say more. She turned dragon with a last wince of pain and took to the air with all speed towards Mordor.

[Aradaewen]

Radae landed in the middle of a scene of mass destruction. Bodies- orc, elf, and human- lay scattered a foot deep in some places, all in grotesque attitudes and with faces of pain. It was heart-wrenching, even for a dragon. She sniffed through the carnage, looking for a sign of life in any allies. There wasn't a sound. The deathly quiet pressed in on her ears and gave her the chills. She sent a low call out into the smoke-and-ash-filled air. "Shade? Faye?" Dead silence.

[Judge Simon]

minutes had stretched by into long hours. Even when Shade had fallen to the ground the attack continued to pound down upon him. He lay as though dead and was sure that if he wasn't already he was near it. He slowly raised a hand to his head. He didn't need to look, he felt blood. He ran a hand down the side of his leg and felt the handle of a blade sticking out. Shade didn't bother to try and get up. Then he heard a call from a few yards away. It sounded desparate.
"Shade? Faye?"
Shade let out a groan and added
Shade-Who calls out in the land of the forsaken?

[Faye Took]

Faye had heard Shade cry out so she went to see what had happened. 'What is it Shade?' Faye gasped at the sight of Shade lying on the ground in pain. 'Shade!' she cried and began to bend down next to him but she was suddenly attacked by orcs. They jumped onto her back and tackled her to the ground.'Shade help!' she cried as the orcs laughed tieing her hands and feet with ropes. She was soon carried off with the orc armies.

[Aradaewen]

Radae heard the groan and the answering call. She carefully, cautiously picked her way around the bodies of the fallen towards the voice. Then she heard the addition of Faye's unmistakeable tones, and knew there was trouble. Not bothering with the earth any more, she took to the skies with a rush of wings. She arrived at Shade's body in time to see an orc band making off with Faye, their tireless legs dragging her at an incredible pace. Within ten seconds- they were gone. She knew even she could not catch up with them. She turned her attention to the here and now- Shade. He lay in a gorey pool of his own blood, a knife of blackened, wickedly curved steel protruded from his upper leg, and he had a nasty gash down the side of the head. She turned elven and knelt at his side. She didn't know what to do for him...

[Judge Simon]

Shade felt a presence by him. He half-opened his eyes and saw that it was Radae.
Shade-Welcome to Mordor, Radae, do you know which side I fight for yet?[he said rasply and then coughed. Then Shade's eyes rolled inot the back of his head and spoke several rapid sentences in the black speech that Radae had heard before in Bree. His whole body seemed to tense and then Shade breathed heavily and seemed to settle down again. His eyes looked wild]
Shade-What happened, what did I say?

[Aradaewen]

"I.. I don't know," Radae stammered. "But I have to take this out." She laid a gentle hand on the black blade, and even at this light touch Shade winced. She unstrung her belt from her waist and laid it between Shade's cracked, chapped lips. "Bite this," she said softly. He closed his eyes and clamped his teeth hard onto the soft leather. Radae turned dragon, set her teeth onto the steel, and swiftly drew it along its own carved path through her companion's flesh. It was done in a heartbeat. Shade arched his back and screamed through the bit of patterned garment. Radae turned elven once again and took a pinch of herbs from a pouch dangling from the end of the belt not in Shade's mouth and sprinkled it on his wounds. She did not answer any questions about what side he was on.

[Judge Simon]

The herbs stung his wounds for a minute and then they seemed to soothe the pain abit.
Shade-Help me, sit up.[he said and Radae put her hand around his back as Shade grabbed her shoulder and he pulled himself into a sitting postion.]
Shade-That's a bit better. Where's Faye?[he asked when he noticed her absence] And the others? What has happened? [Shade started to get up but the pain knocked him back to the ground] We can't stay here, its too dangerous.

[Aradaewen]

Radae bit her lip. "I left Collette and Aranel on their way to the Ents still. The orcs have captured Faye." She was hard-pressed just then to keep Shade on the ground as he murderously thrashed in rage. "WHAT?! Why didn't you stop them?" Radae hung her head.

[Judge Simon]

Shade took another deep breath.
Shade- I'm sorry Radae, I didn't mean to yell. We have to make contact with Collette and Aranel before it is too late. Any ideas? [Shade left his body fall back to the ground. He was very tired, and still felt drained. He shut his eyes and focused on his breathing, trying to think. Then Radae spoke...

[Aradaewen]

"I can make a sling out of some of these tunics," she gestured at the mass of bodies all around them. "One thing I did learn with the elves was how to use a needle." She half-smiled. Shadee grimaced back, a little repulsed at the thought of ripped bloodstained cloth supporting his body, but he nodded and settled back for a several-hour long nap as Radae stalked through the bodies of the fallen, taking a vest here, a tunic there, and before the sun had set, had made a suitable sling. She turned dragon and very gingerly picked up Shade between her teeth and placed him in the sling around her neck. She didn't even wake him. (this made her very proud) However, when she took off, the jolt of her wings startled him into reality...

[Judge Simon]

They were already airborne by the time Shade was able to look out. The air whistled through his hair it felt good for a brief second, but the air had begun to sting his head and he fell back into the sling and back into sleep. Many hours later Shade woke up. It was dark and he was on the ground. He quietly propped himself with his elbow. He squinted and saw Radae talking with who appeared to be Aranel and Collette. Radae appeared to be talking very fast, and Aranel and Collette were listening with gravce ans serious faces.

[Aradaewen]

"...sewed up a sling and flew him here." Radae was saying, "So now what do we do?" Faye was captured and Shade seriously injured. It looked like the girls were on their own. Collette nibbed on her stubby nails, (already clipped from their previous trimmings) and Aranel had a thoughtful faraway look in her eyes. Radae heard Shade groan behind her. She turned and gave him some more herbs, after which he rolled over and fell asleep. The girls stayed up late into the night, discussing plans of action.

[ October 31, 2002: Message edited by: Aradaewen ]

[ColletteTook]

T'was not long before Collette's frail mind wandered into other thoughts of more importance- food and proper beds, Muffins in Bree to be general was her current dream.
"Collette- do you understand?" Someone asked her. She nodded obliviously, not knowing what she had just consented to.
One by one they dropped off to sleep- Collette in the lead.
She awoke in the late night, from a dream that had horrified her, and she snuck quietly to the stream nearby to wash her face of tears and sweat when she heard it.
To men (assuming they were men)conversing in a rapid dark mutter- orkish she thought it to be,but perhaps not.She bent closer, dared only far enough to stand behind the tree nearest their camp. In her life, she had lived in Gondor for three short years and studied many languages, for Gondor has the largest archives (save the library that dwelt in the ruins of Rivendell) in Middle Earth. She had learned only enough Orkish to vaguely make out their sentences.
"-Company drawing near, their plans we have heard"
"Do we have a counter-action of..- (she lost track of the low gabbling)
"We will"
Collette's heart beat so loudly she feared discovery, as they went utterly silent for a few short minutes.
She turned quickly in horror as breathing resounded off her neck, a sickening thud and the world went black.
Three days would pass before she found her companions again.

[ October 17, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[Judge Simon]

Two compainions were now missing. Shade, however, was in too much pain to notice. Radae had tried to soothe the pain with herbs but they made little difference. Shade had been on his back for three days. Clouds rolled over head and they were turning a threatening grey that suggested a storm. Shade was laying on the blood dried cloths that he had been brought in. He had been trying to sleep when he felt someone standing over him. Shade opened his eyes and it was...

[Aradaewen]

Radae looked down at her companion on the ground that she had almost trodden on. Mumbling a clumsy apology, she stepped away. She couldn't see straight. Collette was practically the only friend she had in the whole world, and she had been missing for three days. She couldn't pick up her scent in dragon form- Collette's trail went to the river and just... cut off. Aranel couldn't track her either. They were stuck. First Faye and now Collette were missing from their group, and even Radae was beginning to get nervous. She shook herself, walked back over to Shade, and changed the herbs on his wounds. Unfortunately, the herbs did not help where pain was concerned, but they were aiding the closure of the terrible gashes.

[Judge Simon]

Shade groaned even at Radae's light touch. He was tired of just lying there, he longed to get up and walk on his own two feet again.
Radae-Quit moving, Shade! You're making it worse.
Shade-So what else is new?[Shade seemed to growl. He managed to pull himself into a sitting postion and found himself face to face with Radae. He smirked to himself and quickly kissed Radae on the lips, as he pulled away Radae hit him hard on the shoulder but Shade just laughed it off]
Radae-How dare you![Radae was very upset]
Shade-Oh relax, You liked it[he said laughing and he was able to get to his feet]
Radae-I WHAT??? YOU! YOU INDIGIANT! YOU VAGABOND![Radae got up but Shade wasn't really listening, he was studying the sky at the moment]
Shade-You know, I think we should head in this direction[he said pointing toward a northen direction]

Radae was still ranting but stopped
Radae-What is sooo great about that direction?
Shade-I don't know, I just have feeling...[Shade turned and slowly got a long branch that he leaned on for a staff]
Where are the others? We should leave immediatly

[ October 21, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[Faye Took]

The orcs carried Faye to a dark tower. For some reason, Faye had felt that she had been at this place once before but no thought of the place had been in her mind at the moment. She was very frightened with crystal clear tears streaming down her face. The orcs brought her into the highest room in the tower. The tower was so high that it poked through the clouds. 'You stay in here!' one of the orcs said violently to her, and he slammed the door locking it. Faye huddled up in a corner cold and scared. 'Where could they be?' Faye thought to herself. 'I hope Shade is all right.' Faye soon grew tried and drifted off to sleep.

Hours had passed when Faye was awoken by the sound of the lock being unlocked. A tall, white man walked in. It was Saruman.

'Hello my child.' he said softly grinning evily.

'Why did you bring me here?' Faye cried huddleing even closer to the cornor. Saruman walked towards her. 'Stay back!' she said. Saruman stopped leaning on his staff.

'You, Faye Vardafalas hold the key to opening all darkness.' Saruman began to walk back and forth, while Faye was looking very confused. 'You hold a power within you that can control all evil. I want you to be the comander of my army of goblins and Uruk-hai.'

'I'll never do such a thing for you Saruman, not in any of my lifetimes!'

'Tomarrow you will be the controler of all darkness!' Saruman raised his staff in the air.

'NEVER!' Faye cried. A bolt of red energy struck her and she fell unconcious.

'We'll put herbs in her food to make her drowsy, so she will be easy to control.' Saruman said to the orcs. 'She'll never know what hit her. We will begin tomarrow.'

[ColletteTook]

Collette wearily branched a hill cursing her most curious luck in a very loud and disgruntled voice.
She was absolutley oblivious to her wherabouts, only knowing that she was wandering about somwhere in Rhovanion.
She had escaped the early morn of her capture, for the orcs that had left a very large abrasion atop her head had been slain by riders unknown.
Luckily, Collette had been stowed amoungst the foul luggage like a tolken from visited lands, for had they seen her dirty with many days of uncleanliness, her face caked with mud and dried blood, she was almost sure she would have been mistaken for an orc as well.
Three days without food, a small amount of water and no sleep made her wish now she had been slain, and just then, she gave up.
There was no hope of finding her friends (who were probably dead she thought) in all of middle earth, and now she felt small.
She curled up in the middle of the meadow and slept near the path, unknowingly easily visible.

[ColletteTook]

<< I'll be out for a week sorry. Feel free to play Collette, but dont kill her. Anything else is fine. (except i dont want to come home and be married or something without my knowing) *lauhgs quietly* okay, bye!>>

[Morai]

Aranel's mind was spinning. Hopes and fears rushed through her mind. Then they all sank into despair. Surounded by darkness she prayed,

"Oh Eru, most high God. Please help us.""

The word ents came to her head. She ran faster than ever before....

<< Sorry it's been so long, my server was down.>>

[Judge Simon]

They were off in search their compainons. They began up a small glade and spotted a small girl sleeping in the grass. Shade was shocked to see a girl so young as this sleeping out in the open like that
Aranel-It's Collette!
Shade looked closer and as they raced toward the sleeping figure, Shade did recognise it to be of their lost compainon. They rode up to her and Collette awoke a little startled and a bit cranky for being woken up. Shade lifted her onto the back pf his saddle and they charged on into the hostile country. Still in search of their lost friend...

[Aradaewen]

<>HOLY COW!! Am I never allowed online???<>

To give Shade's horse a rest, Radae had offered to carry the little hobbit in dragon form. Her anxiousness settled some as she felt the very real weight of Collette in Shade's sling around her neck as she glided above Shade and Aranel's horses on the ground below. She was very glad that Collette had not been there to witness Shade's kiss. It had flustered her a bit, especially since she was very loyal to her friend Faye, but... Shade was right. She had kinda, sorta liked- She shook her head. Faye loved Shade, and supposedly he liked her back. Why should she get between them?

[Judge Simon]

Now that he didn't have to worry about the hobbit falling off his horse, Shade was able to play around a little more. He urged his horse to a full gallop and began to criss cross through the trees and around Aranel's horse. She smiled and played back.
"Want to Race?" Shade shouted to her.
"I can assure you that you will lose!"
"I don't think so" Shade took off and he heard Aranel's horse right behind him. He stood up in his stirrups to look around at Aranel.
"Look Out!" she shouted looking distressed. Shade turned back around and saw a huge tree branch zooming toward him. He threw himself deep into the saddle and raced underneath it. The horses raced out of the forest and into a grassy plain. Shade saw that ahead Radae had set down possibly because Collette had complained of being hungry. Shade spurred his horse on, but Aranel came along side and then pulled to the front. She raced past Shade and made it to Radae first. Shade came up and halted his horse
"I told you that I would win" Aranel said.
"Only because I let you," Shade said but there was laughter in his voice as he jumped from his saddle.
"Radae, have seen any sign of our other compainion?" Shade said as he fell into the grass. His wounds were acting up again but he made no mention of them. He breathed in the air deeply and awaited a response.

[ October 26, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[Aradaewen]

<>Changed your speech writing? smilies/wink.gif<>

"Nothing," Radae said, disappointed. "There's not even a smell." She moved her wings, and the motion upset the sling and Collette tumbled out. She punched the dragon's shoulder, but she hardly noticed. Shrugging, the little hobbit pulled the foodsack off her friend's back and rummaged through it for a muffin or two.

"What do we do if a dragon can't track someone?" Shade asked, trying not to wince from the aches in his wounds. Radae turned to Aranel. "Could your elfskills track Faye?" she asked the elf. Aranel looked thoughtful.

<>*stops writing to dance to "the Thong Song"* smilies/biggrin.gif<>

[Morai]

"I think it'd be best to find the ents first." Aranel stated. "Collette, are you ready to visit them?"

Collette looked up....

[ColletteTook]

Collette, who was working earnestly at trying to wipe away the mud caked to her face, looked up.
"I would rather look for Faye. The ents can wait- especially if there is possibility of her danger, and i think there is" She told them of what she had overheard from the orcs before her capture- as well as animately re-told the events thereafter.
The rest of the company sat on the grass- a bit stunned.
"Ents can wait" Collette repeated mock-wisely- and shoved a muffin in her mouth.

[Judge Simon]

Shade however looked to Aranel with a new interest.
"Why do you keep pressing for the Ents, Aranel? It was your opinion for the start to ask for their aid, I've had very little dealings with the shepards of the wood, what hidden power do you know of that concerns them?

[ October 27, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[Faye Took]

Faye slowly began to awaken. Her eyes where fuzzy and all the sounds around her where unclear. She noticed 3 dark figures surrounding her. 'Here eat this.' one of the said. Faye, feeling very hungry, ate them. The figures around her began to laugh. 'What are you-' Faye was out cold.

[Morai]

"It's quite simple Shade. Even though the Ents are hard to rouse, they are strong. They are good friends of the elves. Not to mention, the ents hold a grudge against Saruman." Aranel explained.

[Judge Simon]

"Alright then, Aranel, go to the Ents, beseach them for help, Collette, I want you to go with her"
Collette made to argue but Shade tossed her a look and she fell silent
"Radae, we will go back to Orthanc, I feel evil isn't dead there. We must move quickly for I fear we may be too late"

Radae, Collette and Aranel bid their farewells as Shade gathered up a few things and got back onto his horse. Radae got onto her own, for Shade had asked her to not fly in Dragon form. He wanted to sneak up on the old man.

[Aradaewen]

Radae pressed her body into the horse's neck as the mane streamed out around her face, framing with the glow of sunset and fire, and Shade wondered if the dragon half of his companion wouldn't "burn" through and show anyway. They rode onwards in silence, except for the rushing pound of the horses' hooves. Eastward, every eastward.

Radae thought about Faye, and hoped that her friend was not in immediate danger. She knew that it was impossible to be captured by orcs and not be in some trouble, but she hoped that Faye could last until she and Shade could break her free. She also thought about Collette and wondered how on Middle Earth Aranel was going to keep the little hobbit fed...

[Morai]

Aranel and Collette walked on. Days past and they made it to Faghorn. The forrest had a mysterious feel. Every few moments it seemed that the trees were watching them....

[ November 09, 2002: Message edited by: Morai ]

[Judge Simon]

They rode on until night, the thundering of the horses hooves preventing much talk. They reached the Tower of Isenguard when the moon had reached its hieght in the sky, when Shade signaled for them to stop. They slowly crept along for Orthanc was once again alive with orcs and other devilry. Shade turned to Radae
"We're in some trouble here, apparently Sauraman is not as dead as we had hoped" he said in a hushed but raspy whisper.
"What do you plan to do?"she returned in a lighter whisper
Shade bit his lip and shrugged his shoulders
"I don't know, got any ideas?"

[Aradaewen]

"None," she whispered back. "I watched this wizard go up in flames. My flames. How is all this fortification possible if the man behind it is supposed to be dead?" Shade shrugged. They sat for long time on the dead, dewy grass while their tired horses got what sustenance they could from the frugal vegetation. Then Radae spoke, "I hope Faye is okay." Shade turned around to watch his companion's gaze sweeping the tower's height and length, then swerve and lock into his.

[ColletteTook]

Collette made a disgruntled moan about how hungry she was to Aranel, the elf that seemed to now loathe the hobbit's very existence, who now ignored her.
They delved deeper into the menacing glade, and their forboding increased if possible.
A voice from an unseen entity suddenly boomed "Well, hoom, I should have never thought I would see you a second visit Mr.Pippin"
Collette, who was thouroughly confused finally realized with her hood on, she must have looked like her uncle. A bit of offensive anger shot through her.

[Judge Simon]

"I got an idea," Shade said darkly to Radae.
"You can't come with me though, I'll need you to stay here and wait for the others once they get help, well, I hope they get help."
"What are you talking about, Shade? What are you going to do?"
"I'm going in there."
Before Radae could object, Shade had hopped over the barrier and was striding towards the enterance to Orthanc, although he limped while he did it. A few orcs began to snarl at him, but Shade quickly drew his sword and sliced the orcs down. The rest of the orcs stared at him, was he foe or an ally? A strange breed of human, he seemed to them. He entered into Orthanc and was approached by Sauraman.
"Well, tis the man who tried to fell me, I wonder should I return the favor as well" he said and then began to laugh as did Shade.
"You should seen their faces, oh escaper of many flames, 'I watched this wizard go up in flames. My flames' oh master it was great" he said smiling evilly.
"And Mordor? How did you fair there?" asked Sauraman.
"Couldn't have went much more perfectly, after all you got that foolish girl, didn't you?"
"Of course I did, everything is going as to plan, would you like to see her?"
"Certainly" replied Shade. They walked up spiralling staircases and finally reached were Faye was being held. Shade walked in and for moment there was a look of relief until Sauraman walked in behind and placed his hand on Shade shoulder. Shade smiled at her and then walked out.

[Morai]

It was Treebeard.

"Greetings Treebeard, I am Aranel Nowane of Mirkwood. I ask for some asstistance." Aranel said slowly.

Collette lifted her hood. Treebeard starteld by this said:

"Oh, you're not Pippin. Are you a relative of his?"

[ November 09, 2002: Message edited by: Morai ]

[ColletteTook]

I knew it! I KNEEEEEEEEEEEW IT! YOU EVIL MUFFIN-MONKEY DIE! *commences to slam Judge Simons head into his computer* HOW DARE YOU!

[Judge Simon]

MWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!! smilies/evil.gif


**Pulls Collette from behind his head and throws her in front of him, he reaches into his coat and flings out a bunch of throwing knives at Collette, pinning her to the other wall by her clothes, he sits down and procedes to pick out the pieces of glass from his computer**

I'm evil and I can't help myself smilies/evil.gif

[Faye Took]

Faye watched Shade walked out with a heavy head. She was to weak to stand on her own. 'Shade.' she tried to call out, but only a mere whisper came out. Anger filled inside her.'He did betray us.' she muttered silently to herself. 'There is no hope left.'

[Judge Simon]

Shade was reclining in the throneroom of Orthanc, drinking a rich red wine. Some of Sauraman's best and finest. He swirled it around in his glass and then Sauraman reflected into it.
"So, my friend, are you finally enjoying yourself? All your years of toil have paid off."
"Of course, Master Sauraman, but I would like to take my money and go, I have no more reason to be here"
"Would you leave when power in within grasp?"
"I would, I am a simple man and need only a simple reward"

OoC: I'll finish later

[Judge Simon]

OoC: Collette! GET YOUR HOBBIT BUTT BACK IN HERE!!!

conitued from above...^^^
--BiC--

With that Shade got up and walked out of the room. He was about to leave when he heard a comotion out in the hall.
"Let go of me you filthy orcs!" It was Radae and Shade smirked. Sauraman had the orcs capture her and then placed a set of cains on her writs, unbreakable and placed agic in them that would keep her from turning into a dragon. Shade stalked up to her
"Radae, didn't I tell you to stay hidden?" he said stepping in close
"How could you do this?"
"You should have listened to that insufferable little hobbit when you had the chance.." he said in a dangerous whisper. Shade was so close to Radae that she could feel his breath on her neck.
"Get away from me!"
"Or, what?" He laughed lightly, he made her looked into his eyes. She could see that there was nothing but evil dwealing in his soul. Reached his hand around her neck and kissed her on the forehead. He let her go after that and the orcs drug Radae away. Sauraman walked silently up behind Shade, although he had heard he.
"Master, maybe, I will stay after all."

[ November 03, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[Morai]

Aranel sensed something wrong. She yelled:

"Treebeared! We have no time for introductions. Saruman has captured my friends. I know your people hold a grudge against him. Please help us fight the scroundel!"

Treebeard couldn't understand her for the elf was speaking so quickly. He left and brought Quicktounge, and Aranel repeated her story. The ents called for an imeadiate entmoot.

Aranel rolled her eyes.
"This could take days." She whispered to Collette

[ November 09, 2002: Message edited by: Morai ]

[Aradaewen]

Radae was so confused by Shade's actions that she allowed the orcs to drag her away. She didn't even pick up her feet and walk. Dimly, through a mist of dull misunderstanding, she heard a key turn and she was hurled into a room, in which her head cracked against the wall. She was out immediately.

Radae awoke with rain falling onto her upturned face. Groggily, she opened her bleary eyes. Did rain fall from gold? She closed her eyes, and opened them again, and slowly the scene became focused. It was Faye. She was bending over Radae's head, cradling it in her lap, crying. Her shining hair, the color of liquid gold, framed her face with the only pure color to be seen. The color of the sun. Rubbing her head gingerly, Radae sat up. Looking around, she saw how clever the orcs were. They had thrown her into a cell that was only big enough to transform if she was alone. Since Faye was there, if she turned dragon, she was crush her friend. Turning back to Faye, Radae hugged her and they cried together, in that dingy cold cruel cell. Cut off from the world and from the man they had mutual feelings for...
and had betrayed them.

<>I agree with Judge Simon. If we have enough time for BD and ABD, so do you Collette! Get back here!!!)

[Morai]

The entmoot continued with low tone voices and sounds. Collette couldn't help but fall asleep soon after. Aranel was relived, Collette's questions were notstop. Looking towards Orthranc, Aranel wondered how her friends were fairing....

[ November 09, 2002: Message edited by: Morai ]

[Faye Took]

'Oh Radae!' Faye began. 'I've been locked up in here all by myself. Alone and cold in the dark. I'm so happy to see your alive.' Tears streamed down her face as she squeezed Radae even harder. 'I'm happy to see you too Faye. I thought you were dead.'

[ColletteTook]

<<OOC: *sigh* Excuse me for being the unreasonable hobbit that I am. Take this Shade!>>

Collette awoke from ehr dreams with a cry that stopped the Ent Moot for some time.
She had had a horrible dream, one of which she had had for quite some time.
----------

"You've done well Shade" Saruman mused.
"Thank-You ma'Lord" he responded, sounding overly, almost glutinoulsy pleased with his doings ( which Collette was only half-consciously aware of).
"The halfling and the elf are away debating with the ents, not for long mark you" He finished.
"Trust I have placed within thee Shade, and you will keep your honor" Saruman smiled upon him.
"Yes ma'Lord , paticience and wit is all that is required for the last two souls"
"I have taught you well Shade. Go about upon your buisness, and you will be rewarded" "Yes Lord"

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

Without warning Collette seized her cloak about her and stood, running out of the moot.
She ran towards Orthanc, almost absolutley sure something was wrong with her friends.
To her suprise she was scooped up by the scruff of the neck by Aranel's strong, work-worn hands and put in front of her on her horse.
"I sense it too, now tell me your dream and we will get there doubly fast" Aranel said, and then spoke some elvish quietly to her horse which made it speed faster than Collette could fathom. As Orthanc drew near, Collette spilled her mind and thoughts, and her never-fading doubts that Shade was a traitor.
They arrived at the doors, Aranel hopped from her horse lightly and Collette shakily clambered off it in a state of clumbsiness that always consumed her lest she held some sort of destructive weapon.
Collette recovered herself and pressed upon the wide doors (with Aranel's help) and strode through the hallways.
They spotted Saruman and Shade walking through one marble-black hallway laughing and lamenting with arms about eachother's shoulders as if they were brothers.
Collette gave an angry yelp that she couldnt restrain, causing both Shade and the old man to whirl around.
"May I just call the guards Lord?" Shade asked wearily.
Saruman nodded, but before Shade could open his mouth, he was tackled by the small hurtling figure which was Collette in full on anger ( which is not a very pretty or pleasnt site).
He fell to the ground, from the force of a baby Oliphant and Collette jammed her blade into and "bit" his kneecap with her sword as she had threatnened to do those many ages ago.
Aranel had her bow to Saruman's face, who now asked "Where are our friends?" she growled. Shade opened his mouth to say something like "Sure be reasonab-" through the pain and mock-fear he now endured "SHUTIT TRAITOR!" Collette roared, twisting the blade painfully and wrenching it from him to put it against his neck.
"I knew- from the frist moment I met you- I alone never trusted you, and how I was right." She said angrily pressing the blade harder to his skin.
He kicked the hobbit off him, sending her into the wall, where she blearily was aware that Aranel was next to her from being blasted back by magic of some sort.
Collette rose shakily once more, to attack if had had the strength, but was immediatly choked by Shade's fingers around her throat. "I could take your life so easily right now, if I did not pity you miserable hide" Shade growled. Collette growled back in spite of the position.

[Judge Simon]

"Foolish Halfling, always wanting to be the hero but winds up being a hinderance instead." Shade said. He dropped the little hobbit to the floor and kicked her hard in the head with his good leg. Orcs and Uruk Hai had stopped Aranel from interfering. He limped past her as the blood from his leg flowed freely. She spit on his back as he crossed the hall. He stopped for a moment and turned to face her.
"You will regret that soon enough"
"I don't think that I will."
Shade sighed and turned back around and continued his walk.

[Morai]

<<Collette, I'd thought I'd remind you that Aranel has a sword, not a bow.>>

It had been a long time since Aranel had been worried. As the orks dragged them to a nearby dungeon, she thought of a plan. Aranel would simply signal the ents with her fife. She hoped they would listen.

It was after nightfall. Aranel listened for any notion that Saruman wasn't paying attention or gone. Hours dragged on and she lost her patience.

"Collette!" She whispered as she shook the hobbit awake.

"Huh?" Collette replied.

"I need you to distract Saruman while I send a distress signal." ...........

[ November 09, 2002: Message edited by: Morai ]

[Judge Simon]

Shade had trudged all the way to his own room and began to bind his leg with clean cloths. Some blood soaked through turning parts of the cloth a dull red. He took a drink of the red wine and the pain seemed to ease a bit off. Shade stood back up and tried to put a bit of wieght onto his leg. It began to shake badly and pain shot up from it. Shade quickly to the pressure off of it. He winced a little but shook it quickly off.

[ColletteTook]

Distraction so happened to be one of this hinderance of a hobbit's near professions, and certainly a talent.
She nodded curtly and seriously and looked around, her mind moving quickly.
They had lost their weapons, and had none but clothes...but she smiled as she thought of something.
She began to sing, to the orc watcher's annoyance, a song about love, and elves, and friendship, and hobbits and more love.
It seemed to be cuasing the orc substantial pain ( to her satifaction and he finally lumbered over to her, hands over his ears growling up to her face, where Collette seized her change and grabbied the big stupid animal by the wrists and slammed his head into the bars, over and over again with all the strength she could muster. Saruman was drawn by the yell of the orc and the loud, sickening crunches against the bars...Aranel began to work her plan.

<<In return might i remind you, Morai, that you spell Collette wrong. I will edit and fix the bow thing>>

[Morai]

<< My, my, I guess that makes us even!>>

Luckily there was a barred window nearby. Aranel picked up her fife, blew the highest note she knew. She hoped that the wind would carry it to the ents.

Unfortunately Saruman wasn't distracted enough to ignore Aranel. He took her fife and sent her to a seperate dungeon. This room had no windows. Inside were several forms of torture. Aranel gasped......

[Judge Simon]

"Like your new quarters?" Shade asked from the cell's doorway. He had both of his arms leaning on the door frame and he was looking in at Aranel. He smiled evily. "It seems to be one of Sauraman's interests." he waked over to a particularly painful looking type of rack "This is one of the older ones" he said and then he nochalantly snapped his fingers. Two orcs seemed to emerge from the darkness and grabbed Aranel's shoulders roughly, force marched her over to the diabolical device. They locked her wrists into the metal manacals. The insides of them were filled with small metal spines, so it seemed to Aranel that the restraints were biting in to her wrists. The leg restraints were the same way.
"Now, this rack was specially designed in the depths of Mordor, Sauron never used it much. It wasn't very useful for extracting information, its guests never did last long enough to give anything worthwhile. But for you, I think it will work well enough" Shade told Aranel as he stood over her. He limped backward to the wall and motioned to the orcs. One simply stepped back but the other walked behind the machine. The orc turned the wheel behind Aranel hard. The creaky machine pulled into order, but Aranel remained silent. She wouldn't give Shade the pleasure of screaming. Shade shifted his weight onto his feet and walked back over to her. He placed his hands onto the wooden table, putting his weight onto the splintery thing.
"I guess you think you are so full of strength, right Aranel?"he said leaning over her, "So full of pride and honor" he said running the back of his hand against her face "well that will soon change" Shade finished and he lifted his hand and struck Aranel hard across the face. He readjusted his weight on the table as he conitued to lean over her. As he talked the other orc had moved to the back with the other and had placed his hands on the wheel as well. As Shade shifted his eyes ever so slighty in thier direction, they turned the wheel. Outside the dungeon cell the was a loud crank and was followed immediatly by a loud earpiercing scream...

[ November 10, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[Morai]

Saruman looked the fife over. Nothing seemed different about it, though at the top was a signature in gold. He pressed it to his lips and blew. No sound came from it. The Sorcerer had his mouth shaped in exact form.

"Strange." He muttered.

Meanwhile, Aranel wasn't doing well. Tears of pain streamed down her face. She was so stressed, she was sweating blood. Aranel heared a faint marching. The elf struggled then passed out.

[ColletteTook]

Hope dwindled and went out, and she was drowned in darkness. She cried out and laid on the cold stone floor for what seemed an eternity, and heard the foul creature she had pummeled grunting in her general direction, though he was still a bit delerious from the blows she had administered, stronger than she really was.
Now her energy was spent, pride and dignity forgotten as she felt the whip upon her back. She screamed out, not mercy but for hope
U-chebin estel anim! ( i have kept no hope for myself) she screamed, and the orc laughed, and beat her hope faded, jaded, and gone.

[ November 17, 2002: Message edited by: ColletteTook ]

[Morai]

While unconcious, Aranel sank into delirium. She dreamed of Mirkwood. There she was, eating with her love Halbereth, when he proposed. Aranel said yes, and they planned there wedding.

Meanwhile Saruman was still having problems with the fife. Finally he tried casting a spell on the instrument. Suddenly it rose in the air. Spilling from it's holes was golden light brighter than the sun. It shined words on the wall in elvish long forgotten. The words read:

"This fife can only be unlocked by it's true mistress, Aranel Nowane, Piper of forgotten lands"

Saruman reconised the print, it was Quenya.

"Shade, come quickly!" He shouted....

[ November 11, 2002: Message edited by: Morai ]

[ November 12, 2002: Message edited by: Morai ]

[Judge Simon]

"Shade, come quickly!"

Shade rolled his eyes and looked up at the orcs
"As soon as this one regains herself, let me know"
"Sir, should we just leave her like this?"
"What? You mean on the rack? Of course." Shade finished as he slowly made his way up the stone steps. The dungeons were ungodly cold and Shade was glad when he reached Sauraman's throne room. He limped in and noticed the glittering letters on the wall. Shade looked at them but he could not read the writting.
"thats nice, what did you want? I was about to have some fun with that miserable little halfling."
"Shade, where is that elf?"
"Who...Aranel? Well she's down in the dungeons as well, but you can't talk to her at the moment."
"Why?"
"She passed out right now. Give her about an hour."
"The moment she wakes up I want to be informed"

Shade nodded and walked out of the room. Before he re-entered the dungeons he drew about himself a heavy black cloak to keep himself warm. With one hand leaning on the stone wall, Shade went to where Collette was being held. As he got closer, the snaps of a whip grew louder and the groaning of Collette more evident. He approached the door and looked through the small barred window. An orc stood towering over Collette and Collette, back horribly bloodied lay on the floor barely moving. Shade slipped the iron key into the lock and pushed open the door. Shade limped in and over to the orc. The orc had the whip raised ready to let it fall onto Collette's back, but Shade put his hand to the orc's arm and took the whip from him. The orc snarled for a minute and then left to stand right outside the door. Shade bent down painfully onto one knee to look Collette in the face.
"So, little hobbit, have you gotten a chance to get comfortable with your new home?"
"Shade, if I had the strength, I'd choke you with that whip" She said, venomously and then turned her head away from him.
"Of course you would, oh Collette if only your friends had listened to you...none of you would be in this mess. You were right about me all the time. I've just come from Aranel's cell, she passed out from the pain of her torture and I don't even want to tell you the condition of Faye and Radae. But you, you seem to be doing the best of all of them..well thats something to think about...I'll be back later Collette for another one of our little chats." Shade slowly stood up and turned. He limped back out of Collette's cell and locked the door.
"Leave her be for awhile." He said to the orc, standing guard. He didn't give the orc back the whip and Shade trudged on to where Radae and Faye were being kept. Much of the floor was gritty with stones and made it difficult for Shade to walk. He stumbled only once, right onto his wounded knee. He gritted his teeth and slowly stood back up using the wall and an orc for support.
"Sir, are you alright?"The orc asked in a low growl.
"Fine,"
"Sir, the she-elf, she has regained consciouness, you wanted to be told."
"Yes, I did, thanks" Shade looked down the hall at Radae and Faye's cell. He'd have to deal with them later. Walking as steadily as he could, with whip firmily in hand, Shade went to Aranel's cell. He pushed the door open and looked down. He saw Aranel lift her head weakly in his direction and then left it fall back down.
"Get her on her feet, Sauraman wishes to see her." Shade ordered. The two orcs undid her bonds and forced her to her feet. Half dragging her up the steps and into Sauraman's throneroom with Shade leading the way...

[ November 11, 2002: Message edited by: Judge Simon ]

[Morai]

All she saw was blurred colors. When they reached the throne room, Shade had to help her stand. Aranel's arms and legs ached near numbness.

"Well, well, Piper of Forgotten lands, I have a favor to ask of you...." Saruman sneered.....

[ColletteTook]

Meanwhile------

The Ents had heard the short, shrill cry of the fife from afar, the fife that was distinguishable from all for it was Aranel's own. They began to assemble a rescue party, hoom but not too hasty now.....
-----------------

Collette turned her head away from Shade's words, and stubbornly fought the pain to sit up. It seered, and she could feel the blood seeping and sticking to her tunic.She prayed for Aranel's safety, for Radae and Faye, and now Shade had given her a hint. She was doing the best of all of them, for she was stubborn and righteous and now, from seeing the sun from the high small stone opening, her hope twinkled once more and she knew that she would be the one to save them.
Her thoughts ran quickly, for this was not a slow hobbit, just a clumbsy one.
Collette grouped the wall for footing, as her knees shook violently underneath her throbbing weight. She used all her strength to clamber silently up the bars and hold herself to the ceiling corner.Her body throbbed and bled more, she felt woozy from loss of blood, but grit her teeth, and waited for the dozing orc to notice her sudden dissapearance.
"Pig! Here Pig!" she taunted, though her couldnt see her.
He entered the cell, scratching his head in confusion. Collette seized her chance and launched herself on his back and, being a theif, her hands naturally found their way into the pockets of his filthy breeches and pulled from them the cell keys and scrambled to lock him in her own cell.
His cries had soon alerted many other dull witted orcs to his aid, but Collette hid from them easily.
She had the keys to the cells now, and she WOULD find Faye and Radae.
She would see to it personally that they would make it through this, and she had meant to kill Shade herself, even if it meant her own death.
She moved along the hallways like a shadow, despite her pain and agony and the now mroe steadily loss of blood that occasionally made her stop, for her vision was going white.
She heard Shade's cry from down one of the further halls. He had obviously discovered her dissapearance.
"Dont worry Shade" she said aloud, as she recovered another dizzy spell, gasping for air. "We shall meet again, and you shall meet your demise by a halfling. Lo! What an honorable death" she half-laughed and precceded to find where Faye and Radae were.

[Aradaewen]

<>SORRY! I haven't been on in a long time. What kind of example is that for my fellow RPGers? smilies/wink.gif<>

Radae's head felt bloated and full of water. Her back ached horribly, for it had been whipped like Collette's, but unlike Collette, was not dripping and oozing blood. After the orcs had whipped her, they had strung her from the ceiling and left her chained there by her ankles.

<>Space saved. Goin' to dinner. Finish this lata.<>