Keeper of Light

*note* Yes... the time period actually lasted 12 years.... i was too lazy to put any time constraints, Otherwise... enjoy...










The threat of the raids came to pass. The raids slew 2 of us. Without my alarm, all of us would’ve been killed. There had been an increase in goblins and orcs lately. I’ve heard many tales of darkness forming in Dol Guldur, the enchanted hill. The history of Mirkwood had always been dark and mysterious. There was a river that was told that one touch causes you to sleep. I also heard of tales of Necromancer and his tower on Dol Guldur. Few spoke of that fact. My nightly scouting had increased to eliminate the loathsome creatures that thrive in the depths of Mirkwood. The elves’ extreme hatred toward them had given me the sense that their lives were worth no more than the dirt we walk on.

Back at the Elven King’s Halls, I kept the egg securely and away from anyone’s view, even Celemir. I was even more attracted to the wooden flute. It apparently was carved out of a light material. It was sturdy actually. Apparently, it was carved from a block of wood with elaborate craftsmanship that it was almost unbelievable. While inspecting it, I became aware of characters intricately carved in a language other then elfish. It was neither Noldorian, nor the speech of the Sindarins, I took my first trial and blew through the wooden masterpiece. The first note was a harmonic melody for my ears. It was an inspiring moment in which I felt a great deepening within my soul. I used to be fascinated with the music that came out of pan-pipes and windpipes. It always had a mystical feeling that calms the stressed mind. I never really knew how to play one, but regarding the flute that I had, my chances of learning was within my grasp. I played numerous of tunes that I could reach back in my memory. When I perfected the art of playing the flute, I created different tunes. It soon became my source of relief and enjoyment of the evening. Before long, I was mimicking my own melodies and stretching my knowledge of music-making further.

The Silvan elves were very festive. Every month, I was invited to a feast of merry making and storytelling of the lands beyond Hithaiglin, or the Misty Mountains. It was during one of the feasts that I had a chance to speak with the king’s son, Legolas. He had quite a memory for the history of his people and the mysteries of Mirkwood. Without Celemir around 24/7, he replaced him with more wisdom than any elf I could imagine. The thing I liked about him was the fact that he was a liaison to Thranduil. It was that night that I asked him about my long inquiring question of all time: What was the Prophesy?

“ It is very rare for one to talk about this subject since it’s been long determined as the long lost myths of the middle earth.” he explained.

“But what effect does it have on me?” I inquired, “ Years ago, I received a message from a stranger who considers himself to be a friend. He mentioned about the prophesy that I have never heard of.”

“ Long has Mirkwood been famed for it’s darkness and enigma. Yet it is in the south that darkness still lingers for centuries. Every year, evil lurks in the dark hill of Dol Guldur. We only control the north of the forests. In the east, the river men, and in the great mountain of Erebor, was where the dwarven king under the mountain dwelled. It has been told that the brown wizard patrols the lands.” said Legolas.

He didn’t really seem to answer my question, but what he told me was of relevance about piecing the puzzle together.

“ Have you heard of the Prophesy?” I asked again.

“ The Prophesy was a predicament from the skies. It was said that the after the sundering of the elves, there had been foretelling of a force of great power and virtue that will assist the good people of the middle earth in times of darkness and chaos. Yet the prophecy hasn’t been brought up for centuries. It’s been told as a myth of the past, but seldom have heard of it.”

“ Then for what reason does your father have to free me?” I said.

“My father will soon come to answer that question, but I can inform you that the night you were freed was the night after a stranger arrived in our halls. He suggested your freedom and a request of enriching you with the lore of our realm.” said Legolas.

At that level, I knew that the truth lies hidden about my position. Even his son was forbid not to utter anything about my circumstances. Despite all, Legolas seem reluctant to keep mum about the fact, but at same time throwing out hints and clues.

“ It’s almost incredible that your father, one who is fairly sophisticated and protective of his kingdom, to grant this ongoing stranger his wish.” I said hoping to get more solutions.

“ I even thought about it to myself.” Answered Legolas, “ He’s not the type to agree on such a broad choice.”

Even now, it seemed evident that the king was keeping something from me. Later that evening, I returned to my chamber, deep within my thoughts. The significance of the prophecy extended upon my curiosity. Thranduil’s secret was equivalent to my concealment of the egg and flute. I kept it away from lingering eyes and inspected it throughout night. The shell was embellished with a mixture of green specks and silver lines drawn randomly across. The glow was almost impeccable. The tint of blue made it seem like a giant Easter egg that was made too big. I kept it warm under my pillow hoping it would hatch one day or the other.

As the season changed, my wisdom of the world accelerated dramatically. I felt as if I wasn’t myself any longer. The normal Eviyona in S.F. working for an M.D, who owned a café with 2 other roommates, was altered into a prisoner of the Middle Earth. Yet the next step in the journey I was about to take was closing in.



Darkness yet again was about me. I could feel it lingering in the mists of time. My only light for survival was hope. My source of light was failing in front of me. I had nothing to lose…. I have to continue my destiny. I have to retrieve them, it’s the only way to stop this treachery……

The vision gave me a start. The egg of the unknown creature was left under my cot for almost 6 years. I had carefully tucked in sheets in order to keep it warm. Sometimes at night, I felt a pulse beating under the shell. Something was definitely alive and soon will hatch.

It had been nightfall when I peered through the velvet sky taking a glimpse of Earendil, the brightest star in the sky. It’s purifying light relieved me of my dark thoughts. Such purity emitting from the beloved star of the Elves seemed to ward of all the darkness from within. I sighed in exhaustion, pondering. The pulsating egg beneath continued to increase in heat. It wasn’t before long when I reached in to pull it out down upon the stone floor. The egg was glowing and soon flashed a blinding light that filled the entire room. “CRACK!!” I was shaken by the bright intensity, but soon the light faded. I crept like a panther ready to pounce at its prey, taking each step with caution, as I closed in on the strange creature that I was about to behold.

In the presence of the egg was now a head of a lizard connected to its body by a neck of 18 inches. Slowly emerging from the egg, the lizard was 4 feet in length. Covered in the slime of the egg, it took a form of a Kumamoto dragon with what seemed like a blade sticking out of its head. Its claws emitted a steel color of the razor points that gave a menacing feeling of its power in an attack. Its scales were no ordinary color, but a pure white that seemed to complement with the light emanated at the beginning, yet, as if someone poured an extra layer on it’s back, was a layer of a dark green rough texture as a protective shield. It lumbered across the room sniffing the floor. When it reached the door, it let out a cry of longing, as if searching for something. I crept silently around it to take a closer look without getting its attention. Covered in the egg slime, I could clearly see the 3 feet long tail that was capable of breaking anyone’s leg. I crept closer to marvel the magnificent detail on its back when, it swung around to give a defying stare.

I literally froze. Images of this reptile tearing the flesh off my body, and the strength of its tail fogged my mind as I surveyed the room for any weapon upon my reach. The exit was 5 yards beyond the newborn lizard. If I could just leap across him then I can reach the door and make a run for it. A terrifying vision came when I could never place the potential agility it has of striking me right at the spot. Or I could lure it into the center and grab the bow and arrows in the corner. Oh yrch! It doesn’t really matter, I’ll just be dead by now… the thing was within striking distance from me anyway…

2 large golden eyes with a darkish hue glared. Round dark pupils replaced the tiny black slits that were only recognizable in reptiles. Its glare was rather innocent than sinister compared to the rest of its body. With an emerging stride, it ran in my direction and with a final leap into my arms, it gave a yelp of satisfaction as it snuggled deep within my arms. A release of fear flew from my chest and relief filled my body as I slowly caressed its back.

Careful and gently, I lay my new friend on my pillow and slipped off into the halls. He was quite tame for a hatchling even though it seemed like seconds of emerging friendship. He was now called Silurian after a period during the dinosaur age. I thought it was quite humorous that he resembled a small brontosaurus with a horn sticking out of its head.

A cry of a bird echoed across the horizon. Rushing to the window, I threw on my elven robes and scanned for my long awaited friend. Anya had grown a lot bigger now. She was about a foot tall now with built talons of strength on her feet. She carried a small tube and dropped it in my hands. Soon she perched on the windowsill, watching eagerly.

Hastily, I opened the message. The letter was on a ragged piece of paper yellowed by time. The ink, however, looked quite recent.



I stole a glance at Anya. Looking satisfied, she let out a bold squawk. Obviously this person knows much about me. Too much. After all these years, the time has finally arrived when all my questions will finally be answered. Friend or foe, this may be the key to unlock the truth. I could hear the fluttering of wings behind me. Swirling around, I ushered Anya to return. She seemed reluctant, but obeyed my request.

“Anya. Let it be that we meet outside the palace to the northwest. I will presume that this friend will understand” I whispered to her.

Nodding in acknowledgment, she spread her massive wings and took off into the golden horizon. I couldn’t help but ponder how much she’d grown throughout the years. It seemed like yesterday that she was a chick in the palm of my hand. I longed for those memories.

Leagues beneath the sea, a ray of light pierces the darkness. It must be not found… The enemy needs it… It cannot be lost… such beauty, such radiance and power must not fall into the wrong hands… The eye of the enemy must not see it…

Nightfall. 3 years have been accounted from the times i've remembered. The air was quite with only the soft voices of elfish spoken about the palace. I must have dozed of from too much thinking. The goblins were gaining many of the elven territories. Giant spiders were increasing in numbers in the west. I could not blame king Thranduil for his tensions. He has ordered many barricades in and out the palace. Every day, the darkness grew in Dol Gunldur. I could feel it in my heart and the visions acquired in my dreams. Sudden knocks arouse me from my thoughts.

“ Lady Aniviel, the King wishes to see you “ the voice of Celemir sounded from behind the wooden door.
“ I shall arrive shortly” I replied.
I rose from my bed and slipped into elven robes. I had been called Aniviel for a number of years now. The Silvan Elves never really adopted Eviyona for it sounded foreign to their ears. Underneath, Silurian curled in a tiny ball fast asleep. It was only I, Anya, and this stranger, knew about the very existence of Silurian. Running down the stairs, I entered the royal hallways the elvenking. The halls were all built inside caves of stone, which made the palace much like a fortress. Hidden deep within the caves, Thranduil kept treasures of gold, silver, and the most precious metal: mithril. Upon entering the main halls, I was greeted by many of the elvenking’s subjects. Many of them I reconized from hunting parties and feasts. They had stern faces although a couple of them waved to me in assurance. The king was sitting on his throne with a crown of leaves in his golden hair. Seated to his right was Legolas, and to his left was Celemir.
I bowed in respect for their king.
“My lord, you have asked of me?” I asked.
“ Lady Aniviel, I am pleased to tell you that you have been one of the most dedicated to our kingdom. You have lead many of the orc hunts and progressed the art of combat more rapidly than the others.” proclaimed the king.
The elvenking gave a gesture to his right and Legolas nodded. From behind him he pulled out a sword within its sheath and handed to his father. King Thranduil held it out to me with both hands.
“ Rarely has a female with such talent ever receive the sword forged by the very hands of Celemir. But you, Aniviel, have advanced further than any who would’ve came this far.”
I stared at the sword for a very long time. It was as if time froze. Throughout the palace, the elves surrounded me, waiting for my next move. I was completely astounded. Why in the name of Arda me!!? I was their prisoner once, and now they make me an honored knight of Mirkwood? I looked once again at the king. He nodded in assurance. I nodded in return and slowly I accepted my gift.
Baffled the night’s event, I stumbled into the darkness up the stairs back to my chamber. My mind was too occupied with a storm of questions. “Why all the sudden?” I thought. Without bothering to look at where I step, I stumbled upon the 20th step, falling backward. Attempting to catch my balance, I accidentally flung the sword into the air. I could hear its clang tumbling down the stairs. Whatever I did, I could not regain balance. Great, a fall down the flight of stairs and I’ll probably break 20 bones since I was stupid enough not to watch my step. A sudden grasp was on my shoulder. Almost within a second it pushed me up on my feet. I tripped a little again, leaning towards my front. The other hand now wrapped around my chest to prevent me from falling into my face.
“ I’m so sorry if I was in your way, my lord. I can’t seem to coordinate myself today…um…” I took a heavy sigh and slowly swerved around to glance at my saver.
Locks of long golden hair covered his bright face. I was face to face with pair of dark blue eyes. A gaze of innocence, I thought. The typical stern face of the elf was upon me. I’ve never been anywhere this close to an elf before. When I soon realize that it was no ordinary elf.
“Celemir!!??” I nearly shouted.
“I believe this belongs to you?” Celemir said as he picked up the fallen sword.
“Er… yes…”I was nearly speechless. The night had not only made me careless of where I stepped, but now finding words to speak to Celemir was even harder.
Celemir held the sword with such respect and care that I felt like a total idiot for dropping it. I watched his every move as he carefully placed the sword into both my hands. Before he would move away from me, a forced a word out of my now frozen mouth.
“I never knew you could forge swords” I blurted out.
Celemir stared at me for while. I looked down finally realizing my stupid question made me seem ignorant. Just then a smile stretched on his face and he broke into a small laugh.
“ I wouldn’t blame you for not being aware of that. I am the king’s personal sword-smith. I’ve been able to forge your sword based on the many talents I’ve seen you perform since the day we met.” he explained.
We were silent for a while. I was too astounded to utter another word.
“You should get some rest Aniviel, you will need your strength” he said calmly. With a smooth turn he left down the flight of stairs.
Slowly, but surly, I made my way up the tower into my chamber. Opening the door, I peered inside to see Silurian curled on top of my bed. Removing my robes, I sat beside him, soothing his back. He laid his head on my lap as I pulled my sword out of its sheath.
Outside, the shimmering light of Earendil flowed alongside the bright moonbeams through my window. The light bounced on the sword creating a bright reflection on the ceiling. I couldn’t help but marvel how polished it was and the shape was the most impeccable form I have ever seen. Its slender form and 2’6’length was designed to cut through bone and flesh with precision. However it weighed no more than 2 pounds. I held the sword under the moonlight. The light reflected an elven phrase that was blazed onto the blade.


“Nai hiruvalye Valimar” I read under my breath.
“ Maybe you shall find Valinor.” said a voice behind me.
All my instincts rushed through my body as I swung full force around, pointing my new weapon at the origin of the voice. The sword impenetrably sliced through the air as if cutting sheer butter. Its power rushed through my arms. Miraculously I was staring at Silurian who blinked with his large almond eyes. He let out a weary squeak from his mouth and held his head innocently toward me fearless of the danger. Cautiously, I lowered my sword, only to recognize…
“It was you was it?” I whispered.
“You aren’t afraid of talking lizards, are you?” Silurian answered; his mouth unmoved.
“You can talk?”
“Darn, you are afraid”
“But how?”
“I was born that way. I never asked to learn how to speak your tongue.” he replied.
He jumped off my bed and crawled next to me. I looked down at him with disbelief.
“ Why do you look at me like that? Just because I can communicate with you doesn’t mean you have treat me differently than you do now.”
I sighed. “I’m sorry Silurian. It’s just that…”
“You’ve had a tough day and everything. I mean, not only did elf king give you this blade, but you fell down the stairs. I’ll call that a night!” he grumbled.
I was stunned by what he told me.“ By any chance, how in the world did you know what happened to me?”
“ Pretty simple. You came back with a pretty sword. And I heard a racquet down the tower with you and that elf.” He replied.
“ Gee, you have good hearing.” I said as I lay the blade on the palm of my hand.
Silence. Frustrated, I returned to the bed. I slid the sword back into its sheath. I gazed thoughtlessly into the sky. The night had been long. A cool breeze flowed through my opened windows massaging my body. Silurian, now curled once again beside me, stared at me looking for any reaction.
“ Silurian, did you hear Celemir following me before I fell?” I pondered.
“ Heh, with these ears, I could hear the voices miles away from here. No I didn’t hear him coming, which is very funny because I could never detect the footsteps of an elf."
From what he told me, I turned to stare at the lizard.
“ Is it only me, or you like to boast about your sense of hearing hmmm? ”
“ Er, no, I mean I don’t have the best hearing… See? I can’t even tell if it’s your steps or the elf’s.” he replied hastily.
“ Sure Silurian, sure thing,” I grumbled, “Now tell me exactly how you understand elvish”
“You speak it everyday to that elf servant of yours” Silurian replied calmly.
“ Celemir is defiantly NOT a servant of mine. He’s a subject of King Thranduil. He just here to teach me the skills to live in this place. Actually he also forges sword like, like…”
I stuttered to find the words to finish my sentence, but a herd of questions ran through my head. Why Celemir? Those who receive swords from the king himself happen hardly ever in history. I am the first one, no, the first lady to receive this honor. Celemir has been with me longer than the others. He had worked with me ever since Thranduil excepted me as part of his realm. Appointed as my guide/tutor, he taught me all there was to know about Mirkwood from its lore to its nature. I fumbled through these thoughts. At last, I laid my mind to rest.
A mysterious tune flowed through the air. Its melody mesmerized my ears. Through the darkness and fog I saw them. Majestic and powerful beings of the Middle Earth, they organized into a circle. Each had individual expression of grace and beauty that encircled the way they move and speak. They moved around me. I could sense their power, their presence. They were ancient, even older than the middle earth. They created the Middle Earth.
Dawn of the 5th morning. The sun rose from beneath its mountainous coverage. Rays of warm golden light bathed the floor of my chamber. Silurian gave a lazy yawn and looked dazedly at me as I prepared to go to the meeting of my enlightenment. Again, I dressed into my elven robes, except this time I had my kendo uniform underneath. The silvan elves always dressed in worn yet versatile clothing, at least the male elves do. The elven ladies wore dresses accompanied with a layer of robes if they so desire to wear them. The elves offered me dresses and robes since the day I arrived. Reluctantly, I only wore the dresses on feasting occasions, yet never during our orc hunting parties. Replacing the dresses I wore my kendo uniform which allowed me to perform with a substantial amount of agility. I firmly tied my sword to my belt and straightened myself for what I might endure.
“ You look like you’re preparing for a war.” Yawned Silurian.
“ Better be safe than sorry you know. Mirkwood is no safer than this palace.”
“ Does your elf servant know about your rendezvous with Mr. Mysterious?” Silurian asked playfully.
“ You know what Silurian?” I said slowly and calmly.
“What?”
“ First of all, how many times to I have to tell you that Celemir is NOT my servant!” I retorted, ”Second of all: this is NOT a date with any stranger but a person who will I believe will answer the last decade of my life!! And third of all, if you just keep quiet or else the entire realm will know about you. Fourth of all, you are coming with me no matter what you say about this meeting!!”
Silurian seemed to shrink by my wrath.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you upset, Kaizu.” He said guiltily.
I looked down upon my saurian friend. I presumed he didn’t mean what he said. Perhaps I’m just tense about today. Perhaps too eager to hear the truth…
“Excuse me, what did you just call me?” suddenly astounded by what he just called me.
When I turned to look at him, he completely vanished. I soon came to realize his reason why…
“ Lady Aniviel, were you with someone awhile before?” a soothing voice behind me said.
I wheeled around to see Celemir standing in front of me. My face was completely blank and red with embarrassment. Noticing my tension he said almost sympathetically:
“ Is something troubling you? You look like you’re dressed for battle.”
Underneath I read a muffled snicker, yet Celemir, an elf with extensive hearing, cannot detect that it came from Silurian.
“ I have business in the east” I said stuttering, “ I shall return before sundown.”
I quickly paced pass him toward the door hoping he wouldn’t stay long enough to find Silurian.
I ran down the flight of stairs, careful of every step I took. I passed bewildered elves on their way for the morning activities. I reduced my speed when reaching the outskirts of Mirkwood. There I waited for Silurian. The morning gust flowed through the soaring trees. The autumn leaves tumbled softly down to the grassy grounds. Rays of sunlight peered through the hidden cracks of the branches above creating a warm atmosphere. Thranduil’s kingdom had always been the fairest part of Mirkwood. Beyond were dense forests of darkness where evil loomed in every corner.
The sounds of something scrambling were coming to my direction. A white and green blob emerged from the bushes. An arrow pierced through the dark greenish part of its hide, but apparently not enough to kill it. Noticing it’s long neck and head blade, I ran to it.
“Silurian!! They found you, did they? Are you all right? Did Celemir see you?”
“Darn elves,” grumbled Silurian, “Geez, the guy really has a knack for things. You running off like that really got him suspicious. I had to wait a good 6 minutes before he left me in peace. So I crept out the open window and down the tower. There weren’t any guards, I swear! But when I got a good 20 yards away from the palace, there he is again, this time with a bow and a quiver on his back. I tried to retreat into the bushes, but I guess he saw my stupid tail wagging out of the small bush and soon a shower of arrows came flying toward me. I ran as fast as my four feet could handle, but it was no use losing that elf. I ran up a tree and hid behind its branches, but he never seemed to give up. He barely missed me when a couple of is elf comrades called him back to the palace. With him out of the way, I made a dash for it.”
I examined his wound. It seemed as if the arrow had merely skimmed his back. With my dagger, I chopped off the pointed blade of the arrow and slowly removed it. Not a complaint came out of Silurian.
“ Consider yourself lucky my saurian friend, for Celemir is one of the best archers in Mirkwood. Your tough hide saved you from a lethal kill.” I said as I threw the broken arrow aside.
“ No wonder.” he grumbled.
The flapping of wings soon came to us. Perched on a single branch was Anya. She made a squawk to get attention. We both stared at her, yet her gaze seemed to tell me of her task. I nodded in acknowledgement. However, Silurian was clueless from her arrival.
“ What does she want?” he asked.
Soon as he finished his sentence, Anya took flight and flew off deeper into the forest.
“ Hey! Where are you going.” cried Silurian as he trailed behind me.
“ She wants us to follow her, Silurian. We better catch up with her.” I said as I sprinted after the flying hawk, “ She’s showing us the way.”
We ran for 10 minutes with Anya stopping each time to make sure we didn’t lose her. We headed east, were the trees begin to dwindle in numbers. Sun light penetrated the darkness that was once in the forests. We were reaching broad daylight.
“ Can we stop and take a breather” panted Silurian.
“ We cannot stop here now. We still haven’t reach our destination”
“ She’s flying too fast. Tell her to slow down” he complained.
“ If you can outrun Celemir, then you can follow Anya. Besides, somebody’s been a bit too lethargic lately. Taking too many naps and all.”
We came to a halt. Anya was perched once again, fluffing her feathers and brushing herself. I looked around at my surroundings. The air was less humid here. Straight to the east, were rolling plains of a desolate area. Further outward was a mountain of great majesty. It was called Erebor, named the Lonely Mountain in the common tongue. One of the most known legends was that the mountain housed the lair of a great dragon that sits upon the treasures of dwarves. Toward the south, was Celduin, known in the common tongue as River Running.
“ Finally we’ve stopped” growled Silurian.
“ Apparently you don’t take exercise as something that’s good for strengthening your muscles and bones.”
“ This is torture.”
I eyed him with a grim look. “ Seriously Silurian. You need to get out more.”
“ Now what do we do?” he grumbled.
I searched the sky for Anya. I scanned ever branch of the trees around us. She was nowhere. There wasn’t a sound that could be heard to signify a bird. It was as if she abandoned us for a while. I skimmed the terrain once again and soon an ambiguous figure emerged from the distant plains. Clad in brown robes, he strolled toward our direction. He was hooded and with him was Anya perched on his right shoulder. I couldn’t make out his face for his cloak hid his face from the sun’s view. In his left hand, he wielded a staff of oak and herbs. Towards the shadows of trees he stood still as the mountain in the distance.
“Is that him? He looks like a dirty…..Oww!!” whispered Silurian.
Before he could utter any more, I had to shush him by making him feel the sharp pain of my foot.
“At last we finally meet, Kaizu.” said a voice from beneath the hood.
I soon felt the clogging of questions waiting to rush out of my mouth, yet I found no voice to free them.
“I sense that you have many doubts about your position. Prior to my explanations, I must first introduce myself. I am known in these woods as Aiwendil or Radagast the Brown in the common tongue.” said the stranger.
After being introduced properly, I finally found my voice.
“ First tell me why you address me as Kaizu?” I asked.
The old man lifted his hood and chuckled softly. His face was kind and ancient of wisdom beyond the years. His eyes twinkled as he spoke.
“ Isn’t that what they call you in Thranduil’s place? Silurian should know better than to call you otherwise.”
A spark of recognition came to me about this morning. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you upset Kaizu.” Aniviel was the elvish word for Kaizu.
“ You see, Thranduil had an objective when he gave you that name.”
“ He knew all along, did he?”
“ Of course, I was the one who told him about you. He figured that if he housed you as his own kin, then when time comes, his intentions for you will one day aide his people.”
The thought of Thranduil using me sounded foul to my ears. He wasn’t exactly kind from the start. Yet a change of heart decided my fate.
“ Now I shall want to hear the whole story behind this.” I said.
The three of us walked along side the forest trees. The skies were now transitioning from hues of gold of morning, to the azure of noon. The brilliant sun was slowly elevating to its peak. There, Radagast began the tale of my part in the Middle Earth.
The explanations were long, yet it filled in the missing pieces I’ve been searching for. He first started with the origin of the Prophesy. In the beginning of the First Age there were the Valar whom were equivalent to gods and goddesses, which seemed similar to Greek mythology. The God of all Gods was Eru or Iluvatar in the elvish tongue and under him was Manwe Sulimo, leader of all the Valar. It had started with the Music of Ainur when separate gods began to appear. It began during the creation of Arda when the Valar began the great construction of the dwellings of the First Born. They embellished and filled the lands to be as magnificent as the lands of Valinor. The lands were called the Middle Earth. To glorify their achievement, 2 trees where created by Yavanna the nurturer. Their names were Telperion and Laurelin. Both trees were filled with the grace, power, and beauty of the Valar. The light of the trees reached all corners of the world spreading its splendor. But the power of the Valar weren’t able to purify the darkness that lingered.
There was one particular Valar named Melkor who was the rebel among the Valar. He desired power beyond the others, and disliked the forth bringing of the First Born. For that reason he began the destruction in the Middle Earth in which he created creatures that were only loyal to him. The Valar soon came to challenge Melkor and banished him of his evil deeds. And there, it was prophesized by Elentari of a warrior from distant lands who will assist the First and the Second born when the treachery of Melkor lasts beyond the First Age and grow to dominate the Middle Earth.
“Who were the Second, First born anyway?” yawned Silurian, “All this talking is tiring me out…”
“The first born were the elves blessed by Eru with immortality and the second born were Men blessed with the doom of death.” replied Radagast.
Radagast continued to the sundering of the elves. After the sundering of the elves, a great leader emerged One of the greatest of the elves was Feanor. With his advance skill and devotion he crafted 3 jewels that captured the radiance of the 2 trees. They were the Silmarils, or the jewels of light. Following the sundering of the elves, Melkor was freed from banishment out of the pity of the Valar. He promised to reform himself and soon came among the elves. Despite his promise, his menace grew within him. He still desired ultimate power over the elves. It came to pass that Melkor partnered with a foul spider beast named Ungoliant and poisoned the 2 trees. When light and splendor of Valinor faded, the Valar turned to Feanor for the Silmarils. At first Feanor was suspicious of the Valar for he thought they desired the Silmarils for their own cause. Yet after he agreed, Melkor had succeeded stealing the 3 jewels therefore accomplishing his final goal of world domination. And through the first age, a war was fought to retrieve the lost jewels. The war combined an alliance of Elves and Men. Both races fought till the end of the First Age when Morgoth, the name of Melkor when cursed by Feanor, was defeated.
“ At the end of the War of the 3 Jewels, one of the Silmarils was cast among the heavens as the brightest among all the stars at night. Erendil. The remaining 2 were lost by the beginning of the Second Age.” explained Radagast.
“ What does the Silmarils have to do with me?” I asked.
“ Many things. The prophecy did not just predict a warrior, but a force of equal strength to the darkness that lingers in Mordor. Morgoth’s devoted servant is still alive. Still waiting to avenge for his Master. He is searching for them along with something even deadlier.”
“The prophecy gave the description and time of arrival,” continued Radagast, “Written amongst the stars, it speaks of a lady with the agility, strength, and knowledge of the Middle Earth to retrieve the Silmarils and obtain them from the Enemy. The arrival: the Third Age, year 2800. From what Thranduil has told me, you exceeded the tongue of Sindarian and the lore of their culture quicker than any stranger did in your place. Your combat level is far advanced than any they have ever seen. ”
The year 2800 was 12 years ago. I was struck dead by these words.
“ It couldn’t be! It cannot possibly be me, can it?” I gasped.
“ If my observations are correct, I believe, you are the guardian of the Silmarils and the warrior predicted by the Valar.”

The warmth of the sunlight drenched the landscape. The clouds, now floating in puffs of white, traveled along the soft wind of the afternoon. I was sitting on a rock beside a snoring Silurian, piecing the information given to me. The voice of Legolas echoed thorough my head. “ The Prophesy was a predicament from the skies. It was said that the after the sundering of the elves, there had been foretelling of a force of great power and virtue that will assist the good people of the middle earth in times of darkness and chaos. Yet the prophecy hasn’t been brought up for centuries.”
Majestic and powerful beings of the Middle Earth, they organized into a circle. Each had individual expression of grace and beauty that encircled the way they move and speak. They were the Valar. Two trees, glowing intensely in my eyes. They were Telperion and Laurelin, the power source of Valinor. The visions within the past 12 years, they were trying to tell me something, yet I failed to understand them. Ancient wars and mystical beings were never accounted in the lore of the Silvan elves. They merely had a history the last time I recalled. Their documented history begins in the Third Age.
“ Why have the Mirkwood elves ever take account of the first and second age?” I asked.
“ They had little to do with the time before the third age. Compared to the Noldor and the Sindarins, they had little relevance neither in the ancient wars of the Silmarillion nor the first war against Sauron. Yet they had many downfalls in the past. Many that nearly wiped them off the face of the earth. Thranduil’s people are the last of their blood as far as the Silvan race goes.” Radagast explained, “ For that reason, he desired a miracle for his people. A miracle from the stars.”

“ Why must it be me?” I frantically asked, “ Can’t it be another? Or must it be a coincidence.”
“ Kaizu, fate can never be neither redeemed nor returned. You may think of it otherwise, yet when destiny arrives at your door, it’s only up to you to decide what must be done.” Radagast answered.
I thought for a moment. I had came all this way for one purpose, and now it was finally revealed. All the troubles that it took me and the years of wondering and questioning now arrive to one conclusion: fulfill the prophecy that was laid on me. I rose my head from deep thoughts and word out my answer.
“ What must I do?”
Radagast’s smile changed to a soft warm chuckle, “ I am very astonished by the amount of your accomplishments, Kaizu. Are you definite about your judgement? ”
I peered down upon the dirt. I spied Silurian, who was now curled against the trunk of a tree snoring wildly. Radagast slowly emerged from the stump he was on when the explanations took place. His smile still widened on his face.
“ I had waited for over 12 years, and at last my thirst for the truth has been filled. I am ready for the next step.” I answered.
“ Then we must get to business quickly,” said Radagast hastily now pacing toward Silurian.
I was profound by the sudden change of heart, yet as I had suspected from the beginning, this was no easy task to be done. Silurian, now dazedly stumbling on the forest floor, slowly yawned exposing rows of razor sharp teeth. Radagast was now headed back toward the darkness of the forest with such haste that I was trailing behind him.
“I want you to remember that this meeting that we had must not be known to anyone, not even Thranduil,” breathed Radagast, “ It is a great danger for you if your name is utter anywhere outside of the Silvan elves’ kingdom. The enemy has ears everywhere. The truth about you must be kept hidden until the time is right. From now on, you will be Kaizu.”
“But what about Thranduil? Doesn’t he know already? He calls me Aniviel.” I said.
“ He is a fool. Aniviel is your prophesized name.”
There was an abrupt halt. Radagast swerved around and looked into my face. His eyes now widen with realization and terror.
“ Did Thranduil address you with this name outside the kingdom?” he inquired.
“ The other elves call me by this name.” I answered dumbfounded by the situation, “ They sometimes take me out to their hunting parties.”
“ Do they ever speak your name then?” this time he was really tense.
“ A few times, when we run into orcs and such” I said.
Silence.The red, orange, and yellows afternoon was soon coming to an end. And evening will soon set in. I knew that being in Mirkwood after the darkness has settled was an ill omen to anybody. I turned to Radagast for any resolutions.
“ Indeed he is a fool. The words I gave him, he turned into a showcase his image,” grumbled Radagast. Then he looked at me. “ Kaizu, Thranduil has unknowingly laid a target on you. You are now in grave danger. The Enemy may be looking for you as we speak. You must leave his halls at once and go into hiding. Now we must hurry back”
Soon we were sprinting through the forests. The light of the sun was dimming through the trees. I followed Radagast, until we reached the edge of the Forest River. There, by the water’s edge, 2 chestnut-colored horses stood peacefully lapping the cool waters. Radagast mounted one of them.
“ We need to acquire speed. The light is dying. We have little time.” He said as I mounted the other horse. I pulled Silurian onto the horse and set him in front of me. “Poor Silurian.” I thought; he was clinging on to the saddle without a single word coming out of his mouth. I pulled the reins and took off. The day was diminishing and the darkest corners of Mirkwood were now emerging. The glowing lights in the distant road signified the palace was near. The elves were having another festival yet again. They were setting the lights and preparing the tables with food and wine by the time we reached.
“ You must return to your chamber, pack all your belongings, and leave the chamber without a trace of your life there.” Radagast said as we dismounted the horses.
We took a detour that got us behind the palace were we dismounted. I pulled the clinging Silurian down from the saddle. Without a word, he slid behind me, nodding his head and surveyed the area with his bright eyes. I figured a long time ago, that the gate entrance wasn’t the only way into the palace. Thranduil built a waterway underneath in order to transport his favorite beverage: wine. The water was able to flow through the caves upon the palace was built on and out into the Running River. There were trapdoors that were built there that lead into the wine cellars. If I sneaked through the cellars, I’d be able to find the steps to my chamber in no time for the many routes in the palace were part of a system of transportation and convenience.
A rustle of a bush nearby rebounded through the night’s air. Radagast and I perked our heads and scanned the area for any beings. By instinct, I drew my sword. Radagast raised his staff an inch higher. Silurian was sniffing the air for a scent.
“Somebody’s here” mumbled Silurian.
“ You must hurry,” urged Radagast who was now turned to me, “ Our location must not be found. Once you are finished, go from the south side of the palace and into the forests. I will send for Anya to find you.”
Without further questions, Silurian and I darted into the river entrance into the wine cellar. We were soaking wet from the river when we reached the cellar. Dripping, we hid behind many of the wine barrels. There were many elves going in and out of the place, no doubt preparing the wine for the upcoming feast. We waited in silence as the last of the elves left with 2 gigantic barrels. I eyed Silurian who nodded in return. We made a run for it past the opened doorway and into the hallways.
The hallways were bright with happiness and joy. Everywhere, voices laughing and singing were among the merry elves. Music echoed from the walls and aroma of luscious food filled the air. Despite all, we arrived into my chamber and soon I dug up all the belongings I could think of. The flute that I had held dear whenever I needed solace was now tied around my neck. The many dresses that were offered to me, I tied into a bundle. Silurian did basically nothing besides holding my things and complaining once again that he will miss the bed he slept on for the first days of his life. I threw the bundle I was holding to him and told him that if he wanted to make use of himself, he could climb down the window and wait there for me. Reluctantly, he did climb down without too much of a struggle. The moonbeams of night lit my chamber through the opened window. It seemed too hard to believe that this would be the last night I will ever see such beauty flow into here. The last of my belongings now lay wrapped in an elven embroidered linen. They consisted of tokens and gems given to my by fellow elves whom marveled my excellence or befriended me. I stuffed those under my kendo uniform. I reached for my bow, and soon I had one leg over the windowsill, when knocks came from behind the wooden door.
“ Aniviel! Aniviel! You must come quickly before the festivities will begin.”
The voice was almost recognizable.
Celemir.
I tried to pull away from the window in order to escape, but it was too late. The door creak open, and a head shot behind it to see half of my torso, behind the window.
“ What in the name of Arda, are you doing? The feast is about to start.” I could tell from the excitement on his face that he was overjoyed about something. His dark blue eyes twinkled in the light with a smile of happiness I’ve never witnessed from years with him. He spoke to quickly before I could speak.
“ You have a seat of honor tonight next to the king,” chortled Celemir gleefully, “ It is the first time in the history of the realm to have a lady in such position!”
I could see in his eyes that he’d been waiting for this festival for years. Deep guilt was upon my heart that my departure would grieve him. How to put it into words was even harder.
“ Celemir,” I said softly, “ My life here is over. I must move on now to another. I am very sorry it must be this way, yet there is more that lies between me and this world.”
I could see all the bliss was drained from his fair face. The warm smile that was once spread across his face now vanished into blankness. The same face he gave me a night ago…

The cool afternoon of autumn had settled in the realm. The golden leaves of the many deciduous trees were tumbling down to forest floor. The palace was empty with many elves gone in a hunting party. My decision to stay was for one sole purpose: to complete the art of the sword from what I remember from my kendo classes. I had previously been taught by Celemir during the first years of my arrival, yet I was never satisfied of what I learned. I was skilled with his ways of the sword, but the rules and technique had restraints that couldn’t be brought up without the knowledge of kendo. Without a pathetic stick I once used during practice, this time I had a real sword; forged and lethal. That day, I wanted time alone to myself. I blindfolded myself to prepare for my stances. Blindfolding has been a way to focus and utilize the energy between my sword and my opponent. My master had once said that blindfolding was a way to practice defending against an ambush from behind as well.
I swung the weapon into the air, and settled into my start position. Both of my hands gripped steadily as I lunged and performed Kakari-Geiko, the practice attacks I’ve been rigorously challenging to achieve. I whipped my sword into the air and performed the strikes needed to bring my opponent down. The strikes and attacks have to do with the energy flowing between the sword and its handler. The word wielded in my fingers produced a power of its might as it sliced through the air. My speed increased as I continue execute every attack left in my memory bank, until a unexpected contact between my sword with another halted my stream of thought.
I unwrought my blindfold to see my sword crossing blades with its creator.
“ Absent during the hunting party. Strange that I would find you here in the palace yard with a sword drawn. ” Said Celemir, grinning softly to himself.
I stared at his earnest eyes, and grinned in return. “ Better to be prepared for the worse, mind you."
“ For the worse?” contested Celemir, “ You practice with a blindfold around your head.”
“ It is rather a challenge for me to be unaware of my opponent and attack with the same strength and power as of my opponent should see the darks of my eyes.” I calmly replied.
Amused from first witnessing my efforts to practice kendo, he challenged me to a mock duel of his knowledge of sword fighting against mine. I had to do this blindfolded, of course, naïve to all the obstacles around me.
“ The first on the weaponless on the floor shall prevail” challenged Celemir.
“ Then it shall be done.” I challenged.
I wrapped the blindfold securely on my eyes. My firm grip around the hilt. I took my defense stance. He could attack me anywhere, from any angle I could think off. I had to embrace the energy flow around me in order to sense his first move. What was even difficult was the footsteps were completely soundproof. Elves take pride in their ability to move swiftly and silently. I only needed to depend on my senses and the focus on the energy around me. I took a long breath and directed my attention to the center of my mind and waited for the first blow.
I felt his presence surround me. He was searching for a weakness. His steps were soundless, yet he aimed from the behind. Triggered by a change in the air, I veered around with a metallic clang from the blades. Soon the rhythmic sword dueling began. I felt Celemir dart for every angle, yet my ability to catch and counterattack made it impossible. From what I remember from his earlier tutorials, he would usually strike abruptly at a focused point then veering to an unexpected aim to the head or the heart. Yet each time he performed that stunt, I quickly swirl around to confuse the target and intercepted his attack. I defended according to the wind movements of each strike. It made it tricky to disarm me.
Soon he gained on me drawing me backward with random striking. I knew this strategy very well. This technique was only used to tire the opponent down to the point that he can make a definite blow at the end. Also, he knew I was blindfolded and unaware of my surroundings and backing me to a corner would disable my space for defense attacks. It seemed for hours that we fought back and forth, clashing blades without neither advancement nor loss.
This was were my kendo skills became useful. Being trained with the Kakari-Geiko increased my stamina. There was no use trying to tire me with that attack. I took each blow slowly and sensed the obstacles behind me. The aroma of pine steadied toward me. Celemir was attempting to corner me at a tree. At the right moment, I lunged with all the power I could muster and pushed him off with my sword. With the presumption that he was in my position, I lunged forward with a hard strike at his sword and held it steady with his opposing force against mine. We were locked together for few seconds. I knew sooner or later, he would free the pressure and re-aim his sword at me; instead, I took the advantage by twisting the sword with my own to release the sword from his hand. This was a scheme that took me a few years accumulate while observing the sword fighting amongst the other elves. The disarming method had me push the point of the blade far enough below the guard of the hilt and flip it into the air. This was the first time I’ve used this idea. My first thoughts came that the method will not work completely, but just stun my opponent for the time being. However, the whizzing clang of the weapon signified its release and I felt the sudden escape of force.
Scrambling upon the dried leaves. There were voices about the trees. I lowered my sword to conclude the duel. Removing the fabric that disabled my sight, I took a deep breath, and exhaled the energy that I’d accumulated. Opening my eyes, I witnessed red stains on my robes. Blood trickled from my left hand were the tip Celemir’s sword made contact with mine. I peered down at my sword and followed it to find Celemir on the forest floor; his sword flung to the far right of the woods, at the mercy of the sword he created.
“ The love of Wood!!” cried a voice, “ Such a performance combined with strange skills of the sword, Lady Aniviel”
Lifting my head, a ring of elves surrounded Celemir and me. 48 sparkling eyes reflected the astonishment and euphoria brought by the mock duel. However, the voice that spoke to me was none other than the king himself.
“ I believe you have defeated the one most skilled in sword-fighting of the realm” said another airy voice, “ None has defeated him since the first settlement in Mirkwood.”
As the lead of the hunting party, Legolas was the most experienced at sensing the minds of others. The hunting party was probably shortened for the lack of game in the area nowadays. With the darkness limiting the hunting territories, they returned before sunset as soon as possible. Legolas sought to defeat Celemir for nearly 400 years, yet Celemir held on to the title until he was made the master forger of swords. My victory proved it otherwise. My glance now alternated to the floor. Celemir’s stare was directed aimlessly toward the side; the humiliation of defeat by the very sword he forged.
I withdrew my blade from him, and held out a hand. Refusing my help, he rose from the floor, and brushed himself. The crowd was now diminishing. I watched him as he retrieved his weapon and placed it back into its sheath. He froze for a moment and turned head to face me. Unmoved by his presence, I saw his face; emotion drained from his eyes… a look that would stay with me forever…


It pierced my heart to gaze upon the reminiscent look. The guilt of causing humiliation in front of his king and his people seared through me like paper being torn to pieces.
“ I bid you farewell, my friend. I hope one day you will understand this parting.”
I told him. Without another word, I heaved myself out through the window and climbed down the walls. As I locked my feet in the cracks of the stonewalls, a voice from overhead called for me.
“Aniviel! Aniviel!”
It was clearly from Celemir, yet my mind was deafened by his plea. I continued descending.
Almost immediately I found Silurian waiting down bellow the window. From his gestures, he ushered me to quicken my pace. When my feet touched the dirt, I rapidly scanned the skies for Anya. Night has already fallen on the Middle Earth, yet the hawk was not visible among the stars. Silurian looked up at me, eager for an explanation, but I was silent.
“ Aniiiivieeell!!!!”
The distant cry broke the peace of the night.
“Aniviel!”
The voice was sharper this time; obviously coming toward our direction.
I searched the skies once again, then toward the woods. A distinctive squawk arose from the top of a nearby tree. Perched amongst the branches, Anya contently waited… for me…
“Aniviel!”
It was difficult to look back. My past must be left back. My time has come. I’ve agreed to my destiny, now I must accomplish it. It was the only way for me. Eyeing Anya, I headed to her with Silurian trailing at my heels. If only the voice would stop. My name was no longer Aniviel. I was now Kaizu.
“Aniviel please!” the desperate voice called. I felt a warm hand on my shoulder. The soft force pulled me around to face him.
Celemir’s fair face was now distorted with distress. His blond hair gleamed from the moonlight reflection. I was amazed that he caught up with me in so little time.
“ I beg of you,” I pleaded, “ I need to make haste. I am no longer Aniviel of Mirkwood. Please let me be.”
“ No, I am not trying to stop you,” he replied, “ I want to present you with this gift before your departure.”
I soon noticed he held his very own personal bow that he always brought everywhere gripped in his right hand. He held it out to me with both hands.
“ I cannot accept it, Celemir. It is not mine” I said.
“Take it. It is yours now.”
“ Then what will you use?” I asked.
“I only ask for yours in return. It will mark our friendship for all these years. You have been remarkable, Aniviel, and I admire that.”
Despite my name being called at the edge of the wilderness, we exchanged our bows. Silurian was now yelping for me. Apparently he climbed up Anya’s tree and hid himself among the branches. I felt that this time he was being a lot careful with his tale. With a thrust of an arm, I felt him secure something on my body.
I returned a glance at Celemir. He had removed his own cloak for me. I sensed despair in his heart, yet his face was now bold with acceptance. His hand once again clasped firmly on my shoulder. I touched it with my palm; my fingers in contact with his.
“ Send my regards to the king and the others. May the see the light of dawn upon the kingdom.” I smiled. Carefully I removed the grip from my shoulder and cast it down.
“Should you be in good hands with Aiwendil. May we meet again someday. ” said Celemir softly. He smiled faintly and we released.
I heard Anya squawking repeatedly for my attention. She flew across to another tree. Silurian, now overcoming his fear of Celemir, scrambled down and ran ahead to catch up with Anya. Taking the chance, I sprinted to pursue Silurian, daring only for one final look at the palace I once called a sanctuary away from the treachery of the dark woods. My past was now behind me. At last, I bounded into the darkness, into the mysterious destiny I was about to face.