Fragment of an Ancient Elven Lay

This is a recent translation of a rare fragment of an ancient elven lay composed by the elven bard Gilthonel at the time of the fall of the Pelorean Empire. Its importance lies in the fact that Gilthonel himself was an eyewitness to the events in this part of the lay, being a lifelong friend and follower of the elven lord Ethilion whose tragic death the lay records. Just where this event took place is not stated in the lay but other accounts give it as a ruined tower, the supposed 'lair' of Raglucius, or more prosaically an abandoned copper mine. All agree, however, that it was near the western border of the Empire. The 'Queen' referred to in the lay is Queen Elenore, estranged wife of the last Emperor (technically she was an Empress).

  

           Forth stood the ever fearless Queen, beautiful and perilous,
           Scion of an elder line, older than the Empire. 
           At her side Ethilion, brother of the High King,
           Warrior and staff bearer, golden hair in torches gleam.

           For many miles they hunted prey, the thrice-cursed Raglucius,
           Counsellor of the Emperor, betrayer of the people.
           Through demon-haunted corridors deep beneath the surface,
           Through cunning traps and ambushes to face the Cursed God's Servant.

           Now monstrous thing of fangs and claws, yet wielder of dark magic,
           Raglucius in his true form pronounced the doom of heroes,
           'Be stripped of magic, powers and gifts, the one true God has spoken.
           Now fall beneath my might and power. Death is swiftly coming.'

           But lo! The Queen had hidden power, her line the foes of Malgoth
           Since deeps of time and ancient days resisting all his malice.
           'You think to slip by all my spells, yet one who's here will fell you.
           The sorcery from your own mouth in judgement is upon you.'

           With that she turned the curse around although it cost her dearly.
           The High King's brother saw his chance and forth he strode most boldly.
           No sorcery the monster had, yet sinew was still mighty.
           Many wounds the Elf lord took until he blood flowed freely.

           'My time has come, yet your time too', the Elven prince now shouted.
           'The Staff of Earth I break in two, your tomb has formed around you.'
           As boulders crashed and ceilings fell the Queen's companions saved her
           And at the opening of the pit she sealed the tomb forever.