[Child of the 7th Age]

Annunfuiniel's post


Farin had no clear memories of their climb. Only the thought of seeing Vráin made her trudge forward for she felt greater fear than ever in her life. But what if Vráin is already dead? the thought almost paralysed her and she leaned heavily to a boulder on her right.

Perin walked just behind his sister and presently looked at her trembling with pity and worry in his eyes.

"Farin, you could go back…" he began though he could hear the answer even as it formed in Farin’s mind.

"I can’t." She spoke silently but didn’t look back; "And I wouldn’t even if I could." And with that they continued their slow ascent. But from deep down in her heart Farin found the answer to her own, silent question. If Vráin is dead then part of me will die too. But still I must fight on...

* * * * * * *


Annunfuiniel's post

The dragon had left. Vráin could only hope that his companions outside had been watchful and seen him fly off. But presently he had plenty of things to arrange both before the hunters would get to them and especially before Glawr returned.

"Lossentilien, Iarlhach," Vráin called for the elves again; "Once more I ask for your help."

"Lossentilien; I need you to gather all the captives together. Let the stronger aid those who are too weary to walk. We can’t wait openly here if it should happen that the dragon gets back before the hunters come. You know these halls: look for a place that provides the shelter needed - as near this main cavern as possible. But then a group must be formed that’ll go down to the treasuries to get the gold and gems; for we can’t afford taking risks."

Vráin paused and the she-elf nodded; "I know just the place. And I’ll ask for volunteers to go to the underground tunnels." With that she went to carry out her tasks.

Vráin turned to Iarlhach. "For you I have even bigger request: I need a fire, much smaller than the one we just put out but a great fire still. And then... I’m loth to ask this of you yet I beg you to listen to my plan..." And for a while Vráin spoke on as Iarlhach listened keenly. When he finally ceased the elf watched him in silence, with wonder in his eyes.

"You ask much indeed, Master Vráin," he spoke. "And yet I’m willing to do that and more if need be. For I owe you a debt of gratitude, kindler of hope. The work shall be done be it then that I do it alone."

Vráin smiled; "Not alone, for my hands know this art too. I’ll aid you the best I can. But we are in haste so let us get to work!"

The fire was lit again. An hour passed and then another – but finally the deed was done. Vráin wiped his sleeve over his brow and took a step backwards, admiring the skill of the elves and dwarves. The fire was quenched but red ember remained. Iarlhach walked over to Vráin and stood a while beside him. Then he sighed and looked at the dwarf;

"All is done."

"Yes, all is done." Vráin answered solemnly and the elf walked away.

We are ready.

[ July 11, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]