| Starter for @mairatyaron |
Years of warfare have turned Nessa into a more fierce fighter. She never hesitated, she never stayed her hand any more. She used her nightmares of the battles past as a guide for the battles she waged now. Dismantling this Orc raiding party was no different. She scarcely thought as she shouted orders to her men- the whole skirmish was over in less than ten minutes. It was a third random raiding party in less than two moons, and however small it seemed its close proximity to the city borders and the fact these Orcs seemed to be slightly more organized that expected for the present period seemed concerning to the Capitan. She gripped the hilt of her sword, pulling it out of the body of the last fallen Orc, not even bothering to clean it immediately. She turned to her second in command and simply said. “Burn the remains. I am going to report back to the city, they shall want to hear this.”
The ride back to Ost-in-Edhil was swift, though Nessa could not help but admire the scenery. She missed Lindon and the comforting hum of the sea, but ridding through the woods like this, all by her lonesome, reminded her of Beleriand, and the thought brought a sorrowful smile to her face. Apparently, it was a day for reminiscing, and she knew it would make her restless and anxious whenever she tries to relax later in the day.
Once she was in the city, she left her horse in the stable, not even bothering to wash the black stains of Orc blood off her hands, before marching up to the Lord Telperinquar’s halls. She needed to attempt to bring the odd behavior of the Orcs to his attention. Not that he was focused on much other than his craft these days. Nessa hoped that she was reading into this strange raids too much and nothing more ominous was happening, but her experience spoke volumes against it.
The guards saluted her kindly, before letting her through without question, but instead of the Elven Lord she hoped to see, his estimated guest was sitting, casually, on the throne like chair in the center of the long hall. The Capitan halted, confused for a moment. The elf did hold favor with their ruler, but to assume the seat of power in such a manner was nothing short of outrageous.
Lord Annatar was still somewhat of a mystery, even after all this time. He appeared out of nowhere, gained favor with the Lord of the city way to quickly, he was handsome and alluring to say the least, few immune to his charms, and yet.. Nessa felt a certain, inexplicable dread every time she was near him. The fact that Lady Artanis, had not gifted this “Lord of Gifts” with her trust was another reason why Nessa could not, no would not, either. Be that as it may, she understood that the Vanyar was less than naive, so she had to quell her impulses and try to play this smartly too. She halted at the middle of the chamber and spoke finally.
“My Lord, it appears you have mistaken Lord Telperinquar’s chair for your own.” Her tone was serious only for a brief moment, but then she smiled as manners dictated. “Pray tell, where can I find him? I am afraid I have a most urgent matter to discuss with him.”