Of the Shining Mountain
Few were the dwellings of elves east of the River Anduin in the Second Age. Known as the land of Rhûn, it was a dismal and forlorn place and much of the histories of the Eldar and of the Atani were passing it by. Rhûn was bounded on the north by the Ered Engrin, the Iron Mountains and on the east by the Orocarni, Mountains of the East, and on the south by the lands and mountains of Mordor. And in the center of Rhûn was the Sea of Rhûn which was fed by the rivers, Celduin and the Carnen. The Celduin or River Running came from Mount Erebor and through Dale and Esgaroth. The Carnen or Redwater flowed down from the Iron Hills. Scattered about the land were areas of forests, but much was a rolling plain.
For some of the Avari, those of the Quendi who refused the Great Journey, and the Umanyar, those Quendi who left the journey before the Misty Mountains, the Land of Rhûn was their home. But the place where the First Children awoke, Cuiviénen, which had been near the Inland Sea of Helcar (also known as The Sea of Rhûn), had long since disappeared. Now, families of elves banded together for safety and lived in remote places along the northern borders of the Land of Rhûn.
And it was in one such grouping of elves that on a bright and clear evening in a warm summer month in the year 3280, as the Orocarni were bathed in the light of the setting sun, that a baby elf was born to a loving couple. And the couple looking at the beauty and majesty of the sun as it reflected off the mountains towering above them and then looking at their new child, named their infant son, Orodril, Shining Mountain. And the couple and those of the dwellings around took joy in the birth of a new elf, as it was a time of relative peace in the surrounding areas.
Peace had been rare in those lands as the might of Sauron and Mordor had been great in the Second Age. But now, Sauron himself had been taken prisoner by an invading army of Númenóreans under the kingship of Ar-Pharazon and was removed to that island realm. Rumors and stories of the might of the Númenóreans were great among those of the northern regions where little of outside news was available.
But, with the departure of Sauron, raids by orcs, Easterlings, and other fell creatures had been greatly reduced, for without leadership from Mordor, these groups fell to fighting amongst themselves and even less in making raids against elves and others. For not only elves lived in the remote areas of Rhûn, as there were dwarves in the Orocarni Mountains as well as the Iron Hills, dwarves who were part of four of the seven clans. Also living among the elves and dwarves were Free Men, those who had not fallen under the dominion of Sauron nor under the rule of the Dunedain, and who mostly kept to themselves.
Another race of creatures inhabited parts of this land and they were called by several names although few paid attention as they seemed quite secretive and continually moving westwards. These were the Halflings, or Periannaith, of which little was known especially in the Second Age. They seemed to be moving westwards ahead of the Wild Men, those Easterlings who usually were under the dominion of Sauron and who were filled with hatred for any but their own kind, and even then were loath to even cooperate unless forced. There were also marauding bands of orcs as well as wargs and wolves that those living in the lands had to be on constant watch for.
There were settlements to the West that beckoned to the elves of Rhûn at times. Oropher, Sindarin King of the Silvan Elves in Greenwood, ruled over an extensive land at the time, and thus offered limited protection for those in Rhûn. Though when a settlement was attacked by orcs or Wild Men, what help could be gained would usually be too late to offer much of any substantive assistance. Yet, it did provide some measure of comfort against any possible large organized attacks.
Orodril grew to be a mature elf in this land, learning, as did most the Silvan elves, the methods to survive in the lands as well as an understanding of all living things. He became quite proficient in the use of bow and arrow, although less so in the use of the sword. Understanding the way of the woods and plains about him, he began joining with other elves that in response to attacks on their settlements would go in search of those that had threatened them. His skill and bravery soon led others to give respect, although his mother continually worried about his safety.
These reprisals were so successful that for many years, a peace had descended upon their dwellings, so that raids were quite few and responses in kind. Orodril began to feel a longing in his heart to see other lands and understand more about Middle Earth. And so in his fiftieth year, in 3330 Second Age, Orodril accompanied by several of his friends left their dwellings near the northern end of the Orocarni Mountains and began venturing south and eventually west.
The travels of Orodril and his friends took them south along the western edge of Orocarni. Several times they ventured into the mountains themselves only to be turned back by storms or other inclement weather. However, upon attempting once more to penetrate the mountain chain, they happened upon a group of dwarves making their way up the mountains where a door ahead seemed to lead inside.
In this desolate country, little of the enmity between dwarves and elves existed, as at times they relied on the other for aid against the Shadow and his forces. Little did they know of the feelings of the others of their races towards each other and of the histories and the Sack or Doriath. So, it was with sincere intentions that Orodril hailed the dwarves.
"Greetings, fellow dwellers of the Orocarni Mountains. I am Orodril and these are my friends. We come from our dwellings to the north and in peace only to learn more of our neighbors in this wild place."
The leader of the dwarves turned to Orodril, "We do not take to strangers with kindness as we have learned to leave others to their own business and only wish the same in return, but we have heard of Orodril and the depravations he has caused the allies of the Shadow. If you be the same then, a welcome we will bid you, and perhaps a nights ease, but ask no more and we shall part in the same peace."
Orodril and his friends agreed and spent the night in one of the dwarven halls. They talked late into the night about the lands and their common enemies. Towards the end of the evening, the dwarves began their chanting and the melodies were entrancing to the elves. When they finished, Orodril’s friends encouraged him to entertain them with songs as Orodril had a fine singing voice that he seldom used. Even the dwarves thought it quite pleasant. And in the morning, the dwarves wished Orodril and his friends, Good Hunting in the lands to the South. They parted in as good spirits as dwarves allowed themselves.
The elves turned south again and continued traveling until they came upon a large Inland Sea, called the Sea of Rhun. In ancient days, it was part of a much larger Sea, the Helcar. There they turned east for several leagues until they came upon the Wild Woods. Having heard many stories, they only ventured part ways in and stayed few days before returning. Soon they were headed west along the edges of the Sea of Rhun to their left and the rolling plains of Rhûn to their right. They knew some of the legends of this area. Somewhere before them was Cuiviénen, the place where the Elves first awoke and were befriended by Oromë. And that somewhere in this vast sea, there once stood a pillar and on that pillar shown the light Illuin which was one of the Lamps of the Valar before Melkor threw them down and marred Middle Earth. They paused a moment in deep thought over those places that no longer existed, before continuing on.
Little of hindrance did the four friends find as no group of orcs or Easterlings dared attempt an attack. For many miles, the four traveled westward across the Land of Rhûn. The land for the most part was of endless low hills with small forests scattered about. For many days, they could still see the Orocarni behind them, until eventually they were visible only on quite clear days from the crest of the higher hills.
They did come upon small villages of Easterlings. These they gave wide berth too, knowing that they could possibly be outnumbered. They did understand that there was a quite visible difference between these Easterlings and the Free Men they knew of farther north. These people were rougher and lived a life less civilized then did the Free Men. They seemed also less likely given to happy times; times which Orodril and friends treasured as did the Free Men in moments of peace.
They would also see orcs present in many of these villages, more than they expected and it appeared at times that these creatures whom Orodril disliked even more than the Easterlings appeared at times to be in control. They would discuss this later and they came to the understanding that somewhere to the south, even these orcs answered to a power they knew as the Shadow. And at those times, even they felt some manner of impending doom. Thus quickly they would pass by these villages and try to put those thoughts from their minds. But they did notice that many villages seemed to have numbers of orcs in them, more orcs then they expected to be in these lands.
In due time, after turning away from the sea and journeying northwestwards, they eventually crossed the Carnen River flowing down from the Ered Engrin and they knew that in front of them lay the borders of the Land of Rhûn and beyond that, the Kingdom of Greenwood. Originally they had determined to turn north towards the Iron Hills and eventually come back to their dwellings. But now they agreed to press on and possibly meet with these Elves in their Kingdom.
Soon they had come to Celduin or River Running. If they turned upstream, they knew that great towns of Men lay to the North, Dale and Esgaroth on the Lake, but they determined that they would continue on. In several days, they could see the great woods before them, woods that appeared to rival the Wild Woods in size and in darkness. As they approached Greenwood they had little idea where to go, hoping that some of these Elves would come to meet them. Although they saw no others around, they began to feel as if they were being watched and followed.
Upon entering the woods, they searched in vain for any sign of Elves. Knowing the way of woods and living things, they did not get lost, nor become fearful always knowing close to where they were. After two days and considering going on to the town of Dale for assistance, as they were about their campsite, an Elf appeared to them out of the wood. Wise as they were, this elf made no sound they could determine until he was in there midst. Quickly they went for their weapons, but the Elf spoke first.
"It would be wise to keep your bows and swords where they are, as there be many weapons now pointed in your direction. By your appearance you seem to be Elves, but of a kind not seen normally in these parts. Times are changing and the Shadow is starting to fall across the lands. We must carefully know now who are friends and who are enemies."
"If you give us a moment, we will gladly introduce ourselves and tell you that an enemy of the Shadow is a friend of ours."
"Nay, say nothing, but we shall take you to my father, King Oropher of Greenwood, and he will decide on your fate. Now, I must ask that you wear these blindfolds so that we can take you to our kingdom."
Orodril and his friends were led through the woods in a strange manner, Orodril guessing that the Elves were trying to confuse their paths. As they seemed to approach the kingdom itself, Orodril heard the singing of elves and he understood the songs they were singing and joined in. The Elf that had talked to them, laughed at that saying,
"I see you know of the songs of old. Maybe some evening we can share in those songs."
Soon they were taken before the King Oropher and the blindfolds removed. They were now in caves quite elaborate and well used. And the King asked of them their names and their business.
Orodril replied, "We are elves from the Orocarni Mountains far to the east of here. We have been traveling through the Land Rhûn of many months and coming close to Greenwood became desirous to know of other elves in these lands. My name is Orodril and these are my friends."
The King looked them over saying, "So, you are of the Avari, those that refused the march. What else are you known for, except in keeping to yourselves."
Orodril looked closely at the King before replying, "I am of the Nandor, and my mother and father followed Lenwë, whom I believe many of your own people followed. When Denethor took some of those westwards but with no known destination, my parents turned back towards the east and still dwell there. And keeping to oneself would appear quite wise in most times."
Oropher considered this greatly, asking Orodril of his parents and when told and confirmed by others in the hall, Oropher welcomed them into his kingdom. And Thranduil, Oropher’s son now became a friend to Orodril and his companions. For the next several days, the King asked of Orodril and his friends to tell him of the movements of the Easterlings and orcs. And the King took this under advisement and even sent out messengers to the West where the High King of the Elves in Middle Earth, Gil-Galad was concerned about these worrisome events.
Orodril and his companions stayed in Greenwood for many years learning of the elves there as well as the towns of Dale and Esgaroth. On occasion they would venture with Thranduil westwards to in sight of the Misty Mountains, which compared similarly to the Orocarni. Orodril and Thranduil did share many songs and they learned much from one another, especially how Thranduil was able to come upon their camp in such quiet manner.
As time passed, rumors of war increased, as did rumors of unfavorable tidings from the eastern lands. Orodril and his companionss did not want to leave Greenwood as they felt welcome in the company of the elves there, but they knew they must return soon to their home for fear of possible attacks. Oropher acknowledged their desires and only asked if war came, would they return to assist in the coming battles, which they agreed. And soon they were on their way home.
They arrived in time to help with the defenses as attacks and raids against their dwellings were increasing, as well as rumors of a greater war.
And in due time and some years, that message arrived for Orodril, and gathering his friends and those who would also accompany them, they returned to Greenwood to honor their oath. They learned on the way that the Shadow had summoned men and orcs all through the Lands of Rhûn and they were marching to war against the Kingdom of Gondor as well as other free peoples in Middle Earth. They had to be careful as they journeyed and stayed well to the north.
Upon arriving in Greenwood, Thranduil related to them what was happening. Gil-Galad had gathered an army of Elves and was coming to the aid of the Men in a Last Alliance of Elves and Men. His host was crossing the Misty Mountains, and the forces of Greenwood would join with them to try to defeat the forces of the Dark Lord.
Within days, the forces from Greenwood were prepared as best they could and they headed south along the Anduin River towards the Mordor and the dwelling the Dark Lord. Soon they met up with the host of Gil-Galad and the elves of Greenwood and those of Orodril were amazed at the manner and bearing and armament of the Noldor elves under Gil-Galad as well as the descendants of the Númenóreans under Elendil.
And in the ensuing battle at Dagorlad, it was quite apparent that though the elves of Greenwood fought bravely and valiantly, they were little match for the orcs and other fell creatures of the forces of Mordor. Many were lost in that battle, although the host of Gil-Galad and of Elendil was eventually victorious. But even in victory, the Dark Lord was yet to be overthrown and for seven years, the Elves, Men, and some dwarves of the Last Alliance set up a siege around Mordor. In those years more were lost, but eventually Sauron, the Dark Lord was overthrown, and some peace came to the lands but not without cost. And Orodril was there when Isildur cut off the hand of the Dark Lord and it seemed that the Shadow had been vanquished from Middle Earth.
Sauron had been overthrown, but to Orodril, the cost had been quite dreadful. Friends from both Greenwood and his home in the East had been lost in the battles as well as many other elves. The elves of Greenwood had been brave, but their leaders were oft foolhardy. The elves were sadly inexperienced as well as too lightly armed, for the orcs of Sauron and their allies slew them much too easily. Only the experience and abilities of the elves under Gil-Galad and Men under Elendil brought eventual victory.
Yet now Gil-Galad, Elendil and even Oropher were slain. And with their passing, Orodril though still young, felt the passing of an Age. He had been gone too long from his home by the eastern mountains and even though Thranduil, Oropher's son and heir, asked Orodril to stay on in Greenwood, Orodril knew it was time to return. For even in victory, there is loss, and Orodril would have to bear the tidings of the passing of his friends to their families back in their homes. But even more than the sadness of the loss of such good friends, Orodril knew now the horror of war and how it turned against all that was living and how much loss their was.
Thus it was that when he returned to his dwelling, he spent many years there, trying to forget the memories and sights and sounds of the battles he had been involved in. And the elves in the dwellings, having heard of the stories, and some of the families having suffered loss with the death of the friends of Orodril, also hoped to forget about these dreadful actions.
And many years passed in this peace, although there were still raids against the lands of the elves near the Orocarni Mountains, but Orodril was now much wiser and more knowledgeable in the ways of battle and defenses and he led the way in keeping their dwellings secure.
Yet, all too soon there were bad tidings from the West. Greenwood Forest, now called Mirkwood, had fallen under a shadow and the southern reaches were becoming dangerous to enter. Thranduil began patrolling his borders more and pulling back from difficult places to defend.
Orodril did make several visits to Mirkwood during these years and was always welcomed by Thranduil. They would sing and laugh and talk of the good times in the past, but ever knowing that war and all it entailed might again all too soon confront them.
On one of his visits, Orodril came upon a large group of travelers heading west, a people that he had seldom if ever seen before, those called the Periannath or Halflings. There were rumors about these peoples but they seemed even more secretive than the elves. Orodril wondered how they would survive against some of the fell creatures of the lands of Middle Earth. He wanted to talk to them but was in a hurry, being late for Mirkwood, and so, paid little attention to them.
On Orodril’s next visit to Mirkwood, he learned from Thranduil that much to the dismay of the peoples of Middle Earth, that the Dark Lord had not been vanquished in the Battle of the Last Alliance. Somehow he had survived and there were rumors that he had returned to somewhere in the eastern lands of Rhûn. Thranduil requested that Orodril, if he was willing, investigate these rumors and try to determine if Sauron had indeed survived.
With a heavy heart, Orodril returned to his dwellings and made plans to search out news of the Dark Lord. On these journeys into the wild, he was accompanied by one other friend as Orodril determined to travel lightly and quickly. As in his first journey, they traveled south by the Orocarni Mountains to the Sea of Rhun and then turned east towards the Wild Wood. Orodril heard rumors that there was some kind of Darkness about these lands.
Many weeks Orodril was absent and yet he could learn little. There were strange events happening the Woods, but they were also quite heavily guarded by the Wild Men and so Orodril could barely travel deeply into them without being noticed. Several times, he and his friend escaped capture by moments. Finally, Orodril could stay no longer, but with strong suspicion that the Dark Lord may be in these lands, he returned home.
Events of the most disheartening had occurred while he was away. A much larger band of orcs, Wild Men and Easterlings had attacked their dwellings and although few defenders had been slain, one, to Orodril’s great dismay, was his father. In a despair and anger, he immediately turned around and tracked the remnants of the attackers down and slew every one of them. But little it did to relieve the grief in his heart. Upon returning home, he vowed to remain there for as long as he could in order to defend those near and dear to him.
It was many years later, and again rumors of war began spreading around the lands, that Orodril heard of the awakenings of one of the great dragons in the north, and how it had attacked and taken Mount Erebor from the dwarves and was threatening Mirkwood and towns of the Men. Orodril knew it was only a matter of time before he would be called upon again.
Orodril was still in his home when a messenger arrived from Mirkwood and Thranduil asking for his assistance in the battle about to be joined. Thinking it would be against the dragon at Erebor, Orodril was greatly surprised and dismayed when he understood it was against the dwarves who had taken over Mount Erebor. Orodril had never considered the dwarves as foes and was loath to go into battle against them. However, he had made a pledge to Thranduil and was honor bound to keep it. Gathering several of his friends together, they began the journey to Mirkwood and Erebor.
Orodril was now well understanding of warfare and was much better prepared for the impending battle. Thranduil held him in esteem from when he fought next to Orodril in the Last Alliance and thus gave to him a command of elves when Orodril arrived, which was none too soon, as wargs and orcs coming from the north forced the elves and Men to align themselves with the dwarves in Erebor against the attacks. Orodril was relieved to know that now they would be fighting with the dwarves and not against them. Yet, only with help of the Eagles and a strange presence did the battle turn out for the good, as even though the elves around and under Orodril were better prepared, their numbers were much less then before. And Orodril was present in a tent, when a Periannaith, or Halfling presented himself and offered the most prized treasure of the dwarves.
The battle, soon to be called the Battle of Five Armies, was won and Orodril's skill and bravery shown through once again. Upon the success of the battle, Thranduil asked if Orodril would stay in Mirkwood as he was now considered kin, but Orodril was concerned for his family and friends and returned to the Eastern mountains.
With at least a temporary peace secured, Orodril soon returned to his mother, family and friends in the western shadow of the Orocarni Mountains. There had been some attacks against dwellings around his, but they had been repelled. The knowledge and training Orodril has given the other elves had gone far in providing them a good defense against the small bands of orcs and Wild Men that would come across the land.
With an uneasy peace, Orodril again began roaming through the northern reaches of Rhûn. On one of his journeys through the central part of Rhûn called Palisor, Orodril saw from a great distance another lone figure. Knowing much of the way of the wilds, Orodril tracked this stranger for many a mile. As he studied this stranger, it was apparent that even though the stranger knew little of Rhûn, he was no stranger to the wilds. And though he appeared as one of the race of Men, he also was somewhat taller than the Easterlings or Wild Men and walked the land with a manner bespeaking one of learned experience and had a countenance similar to the Numenoreans Orodril had met in the Last Alliance.
Orodril had heard tales of Men from West of the Misty Mountains, descendants of the Númenóreans of old, but now fallen on hard times. As this stranger appeared alone after following him for many days, Orodril decided it was now time to make himself known and determine who this Man was. Still quietly moving through the forests, Orodril came upon the camp of the stranger, but even though a small fire was lit, the camp was empty.
Quickly Orodril brought around his bow, preparing to nock an arrow. All of a sudden the stranger burst out from behind a tree, bow in hand and arrow at the ready.
The stranger said, "You have been following me for several days, yet you have neither attacked nor retreated. You have the appearance and manner of the elves, yet I am unaware of any of the Eldar race in these lands. What is your business and your allegiance and make it quick."
Orodril looked long and hard on the stranger before answering, "Those are the questions I seek of you, stranger. I and my people are not only from this land, but you are near to the home of the race of Elves in Middle Earth, where Oromë first looked upon Elves. You appear to be of the Atani and yet only Easterlings and Wild Men inhabit parts of these lands. What is your business and make it quicker."
With that the young stranger lowered his bow and smiled at Orodril, "I come in peace to understand better these lands. Yet, if I come upon any of allegiance to the Shadow then he shall always be my foe. I am called Strider and I am a Ranger from the lands to the West of the Misty Mountains. My people are called the Dunedain."
"Then, well met, Strider the Ranger, I am Orodril, of the Nandor Elves, and my home is north of here some leagues at the base of the Orocarni Mountains. I have heard stories of the Dunedain and their abilities. I am pleased to meet one and find out if these tales have any truth to them."
And with that meeting, Orodril and Strider became friends for the next several years, as Orodril became his guide through Rhûn and showed him many places. They journeyed by the Inland Sea of Rhun, through the Wild Woods and beyond even to Hildorian, from where the race of Men was said to have awoken. And if they came upon orcs, Easterlings or Wild Men, they dispatched them quickly.
And after several years of traveling together and each sharing with the other what they knew of the lore of woods, they parted, Strider to return to his lands and Orodril to return to his home, both vowing to remain friends through the remainder of their lives. Yet, bad tidings greeted Orodril as he arrived at his dwelling.
Rumors of war again began swirling about the Land of Rhûn. Elves, dwarves and Free Men would occasionally come through the dwellings of Orodril’s kin and tell stories of gatherings of Wild Men and other Easterlings and how they were preparing for war once again. Little news came from the West and less there was of news that was good. The Kingdom of Gondor was said to be weakening and retreating from its former borders as were the Horsemen of Rohan. There were stories that the Misty Mountains were being overrun by orcs and other fell creatures.
Orodril had too much understanding of the ways of the world about him to know that the hope for peace by those around him would be any but in vain. He knew it was only a matter of time before he would be called once again. He wondered how many times war would have to take place before true peace would finally come.
As for war, he did not have long to wait. Some years after the stranger, the man of the Dunedain returned to his people, rumors of war became all too real. Attacks at the borders of his lands increased during these years, and all the elves and Free Men had to be on guard. Orodril now considered one of the leaders, if not the one elf looked on by all those still east of the Anduin to lead the remaining elves, began making plans and taking on the such responsibilities. Stockades were repaired and fortified around groupings of homes, outlying families were asked to move inside for safety.
And this was accomplished none too soon as within weeks, the raids increased quite rapidly and with increasing strength. Yet through the determination and knowledge of Orodril, the elves along with some Free Men and dwarves were able to turn back the assaults. And then for some reason, the attacks stopped and all were in wonderment at what this meant. Orodril sent out scouts and those that were able to return brought ominous news. Several armies of orcs, Wild Men, Easterlings and other fell creatures were now marching westward, towards the towns of Esgaroth and Dale and the dwarves in Erebor and also towards Mirkwood. And there were vague rumors that another was in Dol Guldur preparing to assail that mythical elven kingdom of Lorien.
And there was even more ominous news then that. The scouts had also come across a few elves and Men fleeing to the north with reports of great armies assembling towards the fastness of Mordor. It took Orodril little time to understand that this was the Dark Lord’s doing as the future of all of Middle Earth was now at stake. This was the culmination of those previous battles and the result of the heirs of Elendil and Gil-Galad not completing the war of the Last Alliance.
Orodril now understood what he was to do, this time with no messengers from Mirkwood and the elves there. Again, determining the strength of the defenses of their dwellings, knowing full well that all would perish in an assault by one of the armies, regardless of the valor of the elves, Orodril made preparations to come to the aid of the Mirkwood elves and any others that needed assistance. Gathering together those that could make the journey in haste, including elves, Free Men, and dwarves from their mines in the Orocarni, Orodril was able to put together a sizable force and leave immediately to the West.
On their fast paced journey through the Lands of Rhûn, they came across others fleeing before the might of the armies to their immediate south. Occasionally, Orodril was able to convince one or two of the men to join with them and sent the remainder on to his fortified village for their protection. Upon crossing the River Running, part of his force consisting of Men and Dwarves by agreement broke off towards Dale and Mount Erebor to assist those there. Orodril with the remaining Elves continued on towards Mirkwood.
As they were several days behind the armies, Orodril was fearful that they would be too late. Yet as they neared the borders of Mirkwood, they could hear and soon see the large battle now taking place. From a vantage point off to the side, Orodril could see that neither side had yet an advantage, though it looked as if the forces of the Dark Lord may be gaining ground and there were fires all around the edges to the wood.
Having considered that this may be what would occur, Orodril arrayed his small force as best he could, and then hoping for surprise, they came upon the orcs, Easterlings, and other fell creatures completely unaware and joined in the battle. Upon seeing re-reinforcements, Thranduil’s army of Elves was given new hope and began taking back lost ground.
The battle now raged fiercely and it slowly began turning in favor of the Elves. First doubt and then fear gripped the orcs and Easterlings and then panic as they fell back. As the attacking army was put to rout, Orodril met up with King Thranduil who was quite grateful for the unlooked-for but much welcomed help.
"We ever seem to meet under dire circumstances and yet, each time, fate has shown kindly on us. It is good that you are here and better that you brought much hoped for relief."
"I can only hope that each time will be the last we have to worry on that, although, perhaps this time may the fates shine on all of us."
And the fates did shine as the forces of Sauron were defeated and the Dark Lord himself was removed from the world.
Peace again had been restored to Middle Earth, but once again with great loss. Many brave and valiant elves, men, and dwarves had been lost in the battles in the north. And Orodril on this journey stayed to be welcomed not only into Mirkwood, but into Dale and Erebor, as the Men and Dwarves that came with him were a welcome relief in those places and helped hold the defense until the Dark Lord himself was overthrown.
Finally after some time, Orodril now determined that it was time to return to his home. Much too long he had been absent from the dwellings under the Shining Mountain. War had reached into every corner of Middle Earth. He hoped that its reach was only a brief touch, but concern lay heavy upon his mind for the safety of those he had left.
As he was considering leaving, Legolas Greenleaf, who had returned from the south to see to his father, came to him.
"Well met, Orodril of the Orocarni. I have word that you seek to return to your home."
"That is true, Legolas Greenleaf. Rumors are that even those places in the east have suffered some of the effects of the dark Lords doings. I have need for assurance that all is still safe, much as I fear loss in even that remote place."
"Then do what you must, but if all is well, I have a request to make. You have proven your worth many atime and all of my father's kingdom speak well of you. I am gathering many elves with me to journey south where we have been given the lands to the east of Gondor, called Ithilien, to replenish and make splendid once again. I would like you to join us when you can, as I believe you will provide great help in our undertaking."
"I am honored by your request and assuming all is well, I will consider it fully, but now I must take my leave."
"Then leave you must, but be aware, I sense that your fate lies to the south and not to east, although even I do not fully understand. But go in good measure, and come only if you can."
Orodril made his farewells to his friends and journeyed back to the place of his home. Even though it was far from the well-traveled lands, it too has suffered some from the forces of the Mordor.
Yet, the deprivations suffered by those still there were slight in comparison to those along the Anduin, and Orodril was able to assist in much of the re-building. With his mother still in good health and spirits, along with those of his parent's kin, Orodril began looking south and soon his mother understood that her son was to venture forth again.
"My son, I see that much too familiar look in your face. Something out there is calling to you again. Much as it is painful to see you leave once again, I know that you must go."
"Mother, I have been to many places and seen many things, yet I feel there is still something I have not seen. And my heart keeps yearning for that which is still unknown."
"I believe I know what it is you are searching for. I know it is not here, thus even though I am grieved at your departure, you will not be truly happy until you find it. So go in peace and love, and return when you can."
And with the blessing of his mother, Orodril journeyed to Ithilien where he was warmly welcomed by Legolas and the other elves. And he arrived in the year 35 of the Fourth Age.
As he was assisting in the re-blooming of the land, he had chance to meet many of the citizens of Gondor including Faramir and Eowyn. And there came a time when he was presented to the King and Queen of Gondor and Arnor, the King returned, Aragorn Elessar and Arwen Evenstar. And Aragorn immediately recognized Orodril and greeted him warmly.
"Welcome, old friend, tis too many years since we have last seen one another. And we hear many good reports of your valor both in the Battle of Five Armies and again in the Battle of Mirkwood. You honor us with your presence here."
Orodril replied, "You speak all too truly, my King, too many years and too many departed friends. One would hope that this be the peace we are have all been searching for."
"Indeed, so as we all hope, but may I present Queen Arwen Evenstar." Turning to his wife he said, "Orodril and I met years ago on a barren and stark plain. Once we understood one another, he showed me much of the wood lore of those lands, for which I shall ever be in his debt."
Arwen looked upon Orodril, "We are pleased to meet one who is held in such high esteem and is considered a friend of the King. And by your manner and countenance, it is quite apparent that you are more than worthy of it. I do understand more than my King at times, and there is something I sense about you. I cannot tell clearly but there is something still important in your future that will be a blessing to this kingdom. More than that I cannot say. But you are always welcome in our court at all times."
"I am blessed to honored by ones so great as you both are."
And Orodril took his leave, marveling at the consideration of the King and beauty and foretelling of the Queen. And upon leaving the court of Gondor, Orodril noticed a young woman off to one side, who seemed to be with her mother. And for some reason, this young woman, obviously of the Race of Men, looked different to him. And her smile in return of his gaze stirred feelings in him that he did not understand.
Returning to Ithilien, he tried to put her out of his mind, but could not, although several years passed. And one day while Orodril was occupied with his daily concerns, several friends approached him and with them was a young woman that looked familiar. Before Orodril could determine where he had seen her before, his friends introduced Naeleth, daughter of Iorwine of Gondor who was considered a poet of renown. And Orodril now understood where he had seen her before, and both were now quite self conscious at remembering that brief moment.
"Orodril, may we present Naeleth. She is quite curious to know more of elves and much as we have tried answering her questions, she seems to always have another. Now she wishes to know of the Land of Rhûn and the elves of that distant place. Who better to answer her questions then dear Orodril."
And they left slightly amused that they had been able to pass the overly inquisitive but friendly maiden off on the unsuspecting Orodril.
Naeleth spoke, "I do not want to be a burden to you, kind Sir, I am just quite fascinated by elves and have so many questions. If at any time, you grow tired of me, please just ask me and I shall leave."
"If that time ever comes, I may ask, maid of Gondor, but until then I shall be content to tell you what I do know," Orodril responded.
Yet, much as there was a difference in the two, so was there much the same. And the sameness was the yearning deep in one’s heart that somewhere, there lay what one was searching so desperately for, if only it could be found. And from the first, it seemed that what both were searching for was now found. But, neither could find the words at first to express that feeling.
Orodril began sharing stories of the Elves of Rhûn and of the places and events that he had been a part of. Naeleth was quite happy to have one so wise and understanding take an interest in her desire for more knowledge. She would continue to seek out Orodril and they would talk at length about Elves and Men, Rhûn and Gondor.
Soon, it was quite common to see them walking together and relating stories of each other’s histories, and sharing in the delight of each other’s company. Yet, they both understood that for those of different races to join together could prove to be the doom of both. They both had heard the stories of Beren and Luthien, Tuor and Idril, even Aegnor and Andreth. And so they kept their feelings that were growing for the other deep within each heart.
And some time passed as Orodril began realizing that he looked forward to the time with Naeleth and on those days when she was unable to come, he was somewhat saddened and worried about her. And he began to understand what his feelings were and so decided to travel back to his home and consider all that was happening.
He saw Naeleth one more time, and explained that he had to return to his home by the Orocarni Mountains. Naeleth hopefully said she would love to see those mountains, but Orodril said he had to travel alone as he would be gone for some time. Naeleth now was worried as she felt she had done something to cause Orodril to leave, but he told her,
"When I do return, whenever that may be, I shall look for you, where ever you may be, before all else. I hold you quite dear, but I must be away."
Naeleth was now saddened, but she understood her feelings and knew she loved him and only hoped that he would return someday with his love. And they parted, both with some sadness and in the hopes of returning to each other some day.
Orodril returned to his home and his mother quite disconsolate. After some time, he finally explained his feelings and concerns, and told her about Naeleth, what she meant to him, and her family and background. His mother was in some ways wise in matters of the heart and also knew of the tragedies surrounding affairs of the heart between elves and Men. But in long talks with her son, she knew his true feelings and understood that he believed those of Naeleth’s to also be true.
"Son, if she truly loves you, she will wait as you have asked her to do. At that time you will know what is in your heart and in hers and what you are to do then. She must be very unusual to have affected one of the Quendi as she has you. One day, if possible, I should hope to meet her. And what children you shall have!"
Orodril spent some time considering and pondering all these thoughts. He understood that it could not be a rash decision as there was much against such a union. And eventually he understood what he most desired.
And after some years he returned to Ithilien and soon sent word to Naeleth that he had returned. When she was able to come from her home in Minas Tirith and meet with him, he saw that she was no longer the young maid he had left, but instead she had a beauty about her that comes to few with wisdom and understanding and not a few years. And to his eyes she was more beautiful then when he had last seen her. And instead of being fearful that the years may have been too many, with too many other events, he now felt a peace and a desire. And looking into her face and eyes, he realized she had the same peace and desire.
With that feeling in both of them, Orodril spoke, "Naeleth, much I have had my mind these years, but now, seeing you again, all that has gone. I now have but one hope and request to ask of you."
Naeleth smiled at him saying, "Make that request, my Lord, for I know I shall be unable to deny it."
Taking her hands in his and trembling over his words he asked, "Long have I lived, and almost as long now I have waited, and I hope that it has not been too long. I ask now of you, Naeleth, will you be my wife and take me as your husband?"
Naeleth smiled up at him and responded quietly, "Long have I yearned to hear those words, and yet the time now is as nothing. Yes, I shall be your wife and take you as my husband."
Orodril reached into his pocket and began fingering something, "There is an elvish custom concerning those wishing to wed..."
"I know of the Laws and Customs of the Eldar, dear Orodril, that we shall each wear these rings for one year and then return to this or another agreed upon place and if both still wear the rings, we shall be husband and wife," she said holding out a ring for him.
And they exchanged rings, each putting one on the other’s finger.
They joyfully celebrated their betrothal with some of Orodril’s friends and then Naeleth returned to her family. Several weeks later, Orodril determined to return to his home once again and promised Naeleth that he would return by the one year date and at the place decided. Soon he arrived at his home and came to his mother.
"Mother, there is something I must talk to you about."
"Dearest Son, before you say anything, there is much I have to tell you. I can see that you are wearing the ring of betrothal and I must assume, there is one in distant lands, wearing a like ring. If she be the one that can in some way, respond to your needs and perhaps give you some of what you are looking for, then you have my blessing. But know that I will never in this world be able to meet her, for I have been allowed to go to the Grey Havens and there board a ship for the Undying Lands. And I will be leaving soon. You no longer need me as you once did, as there will now be another to care for you as I have."
"Mother, I do not know what to say. Yes, there is that woman I spoke of before. We have exchanged rings in the elven custom and we shall be wedded at the end of the year, but I cannot bear you leaving. I feel as if I must accompany you and be with you."
"Orodril, my son, your words spoke true, as you called your beloved a woman and not a young maid as before. I know that you two belong together. I shall allow you to journey with me as far as Imladris and there we are to part. I go on to meet your father if I may, and you back to meet your dearly beloved."
And the two traveled to Imladris, refuge of elves in Middle Earth, and there Orodril met Celeborn whom he had heard much about, and Celeborn was happy to meet an elf that had been so important in the wars against the Dark Lord. After some time, Orodril quite saddened bid his mother fare well, and returned to Ithilien.
Orodril’s mother dwelt some time in Imladris, awaiting to travel with Celeborn. Years later, in that same refuge, a young woman of Gondor passed through and stopped for a night or two and she was accompanied by an elf and a dwarf. And that young woman entertained all that were in Imladris with songs of elves, dwarves, Men, and even other races. And her countenance and her singing caused Orodril’s mother to think of her son and his singing and it made her happy. And in that happiness she journeyed with Celeborn to the Grey Havens and the Undying Lands.
Orodril returned to Ithilien at the one-year anniversary of his and Naeleth’s betrothal and at the appointed time and place, he found Naeleth waiting for him. The joy in both their hearts at this moment was beyond measure, as they knew they had what they had been searching many long years for in each other. And their friends in Ithilien were quite happy for the couple and celebrated their union with them. And they stayed in Ithilien for several months enjoying being with each other and being husband and wife.
After several months, Naeleth and Orodril began talking how they would tell their families. Orodril still had some relatives by the Orocarni Mountains, even though his mother had left. And Naeleth so dearly wanted to see the lands where Orodril had spent much of his life, and especially the mountains as the sun set in the west.
They agreed that they would travel to his lands and then they would return to Minas Tirith and confront her family. She knew they would be happy for her finding a husband, but she was unsure as to their acceptance of an elf into the family. But that was months away as they prepared for the journey ahead.
Soon they had left Ithilien and Gondor behind and started over the Brown Lands and on into the Land of Rhûn. It was getting to be early spring and in spots flowers were starting to bloom. Since the fall of the Dark Lord, many lands had started to bloom again. And that evening amid all the beauty, Naeleth told her husband that she was expecting a child and they would soon be parents. And such joy and gladness as Orodril could express, he lavished on his wife at this wonderful news. However, even in the land of beauty, ill creatures still existed.
As they passed the Inland Sea of Rhun, to their despair, they were surprised by a large party of orcs that were fleeing eastwards ahead of bands of Men and Elves that were scouring the land, making it inhabitable again. Orodril had both his bow and sword and he was quite skilled in both, but the numbers of orcs was almost too great. Defending Naeleth as best he could, he slew many of them before being wounded himself. And the wounding led to his tiring so that the remaining two orcs attacked him as one and were able to wound him several times, the final blow being fatal, but in his last breath and summoning all the strength he had left, and being deeply in love with his wife and now his unborn child, he slew the remaining orcs before falling to the ground himself.
Naeleth was beside herself with grief and tears as the elf she dearly loved had died defending her. Holding him tightly to her and trying without avail to tend to his wounds, she looked deeply into the eyes of her beloved Orodril and in his dying breath he told her and made her promise,
"Naeleth, dearly beloved, you have made my life complete, even for the brief time we have had together. But I ask you to honor me with this one request."
"Again, Orodril, I would give you all that I can. Any request will be so granted to one that I have deeply and truly loved."
"Promise me that you will take another husband and give our child the family that both our unborn child and you deserve. But someday, when it is appropriate, tell that child of me and of us and what we meant to each other. Promise me that, my beloved wife."
As she held Orodril gently in her arms close to her, he passed to the Halls of Mandos, there to dwell until the ending of Arda. Long did her tears fall on the now lifeless body of her love and husband, and the father of her unborn child.
After many hours in grief over the death of her beloved, Naeleth gathered a strength within her that she did not know existed and looking around her, found a place that would suffice for what she knew had to be done. She tended to her husband as best she could, making him in appearance, worthy of one that had been so fierce a fighter and yet so loving a husband. She placed him in a depression in the ground and spent the next day gathering stones and rocks and covering him in a cairn.
Somehow, she also gathered those fell creatures that had attacked them, and obtaining what wood and other materials as she could, set fire to the remains. She looked around at the desolate lands they were in, and her heart felt heavy, yet she knew that even though they were still some leagues from the mountains and his ancestral dwelling and family, Orodril was home. Home in the lands he had so loved and journeyed through. Standing on the rise next Orodril's cairn and looking northeastward in the evening, she saw the sunlight gleam off the distant but barely visible Orocarni and saw one shining out among the rest, and knew it was the Shining Mountain of Orodril.
Epilogue
Naeleth gathered what she could including the bow of her husband and began the long, perilous journey back to Gondor and Ithilien. After several days traveling through the wilds, she came upon a group of elves. Upon determining, while in hiding, that they were from Ithilien, she made herself known, and related the story. All were grieved to hear of the death of Orodril, as they knew of his bravery and abilities. Yet they were saddened as well that they had not arrived earlier as they were searching out such orcs as had attacked Orodril and Naeleth. And all were amazed at the strength of Naeleth, although she did not tell them of her condition.
They safely returned with her to Ithilien where Naeleth presented the bow and quiver to Lord Legolas who was as grieved as the others to hear of Orodril's passing. Naeleth then returned to Gondor and her family, also telling few of the past events.
Soon she wedded a man of Gondor, and in due time she gave birth to a daughter, Nereniel. Only a few people knew of Nereniel's true lineage including Naeleth’s husband, yet he loved her as a daughter and cared for her as deeply as Naeleth. Nereniel grew to be a young woman and had many adventures of her own, which are related elsewhere, but she eventually learned of her father and honored him in years to come. Although, not a writer of songs herself, she labored with one who was, and soon the people of Middle Earth heard of the wondrous adventures, deeds, and love of a great elf, in the Lay, The Shining Mountain, from which this story is taken.
The End
