Chapter 19 - The White Council

### Chapter 17: Shadows and WarningsThe sun hung low in the sky as Gandalf, Elrond, and Taranis walked through the lush greenery of Rivendell, heading toward a secluded glade where they were to meet two other powerful figures of Middle-earth. As they approached, the ethereal beauty of the place filled Taranis with awe. The sounds of flowing water and rustling leaves created a serene atmosphere, but an undercurrent of tension hung in the air.They found Galadriel and Saruman already waiting, their expressions serious. Galadriel's eyes gleamed with wisdom, while Saruman's face bore an unsettling blend of curiosity and skepticism."Gandalf," Saruman began, his tone cool, "you summoned us. What is so urgent that it requires our collective presence?"Gandalf exchanged a knowing glance with Elrond before addressing the group. "Radagast has sent word of troubling occurrences in the forest. Dark creatures are stirring, and he senses a growing shadow that threatens the peace of Middle-earth."Taranis, who had been quietly observing, felt the gravity of the situation. He had heard tales of Saruman's wisdom but sensed something off about him. There was a darkness in Saruman's demeanor that made Taranis uneasy."Dark creatures?" Galadriel asked, her voice calm but laced with concern. "What sort of creatures?""Radagast mentioned sightings of wargs and unnatural gatherings of goblins. He fears that these disturbances are not random but part of something more sinister—a force that seeks to unite these dark beings for a greater purpose," Gandalf explained, his voice firm.Saruman scoffed, dismissing the warning with a wave of his hand. "Gandalf, you are too quick to jump at shadows. These are mere creatures, no more than a nuisance. You cannot let your fears dictate your actions. The world is vast, and not every movement of the wild warrants concern."Taranis frowned, unable to contain his thoughts any longer. "But if there is even a chance that something is amiss, shouldn't we investigate?" he interjected, his voice steady yet passionate. "We cannot afford to ignore a potential threat."Saruman turned his gaze sharply toward Taranis, his eyes narrowing. "And what do you know of such matters, boy? You are but a traveler with no place in the councils of the wise."A flash of anger ignited in Taranis. "I may not have your experience, Saruman, but I've faced danger in this world. You dismiss my words as if they mean nothing, but I've seen the darkness that lurks beyond the horizon."Galadriel's serene presence offered a momentary reprieve from the tension. "Wisdom comes not only with age but also with experience, Saruman. Taranis speaks with conviction. We must not disregard the intuition of the young."Saruman's disdain was palpable. "Young or not, this foolhardy quest for danger will lead to ruin. I have little patience for your bluster, Taranis. You would do well to know your place."Taranis clenched his fists, feeling the resentment toward Saruman bubble beneath the surface. The shadows of the future flickered in his mind, foretelling Saruman's eventual betrayal. "Perhaps you should remember that knowledge can corrupt, Saruman. Power unchecked leads to tyranny."The words hung in the air, and for a brief moment, Saruman's expression shifted, revealing a flash of something dark beneath his facade of control. Gandalf stepped forward, sensing the rising tension. "Enough! This is not the time for quarrels among allies. If we are to face a potential threat, we must be united."Saruman's eyes glimmered with irritation, but he conceded, if only slightly. "Very well. Let us hear more of Radagast's concerns, but do not expect me to indulge in the paranoia of those who believe every whisper of the wind is an omen."Elrond regarded Saruman with skepticism. "A wise leader listens to all warnings, even those that seem inconsequential. We must proceed with caution."Taranis felt a mix of triumph and unease as the conversation shifted back to strategy, but Saruman's condescending presence loomed over him like a shadow. He had little trust in the white wizard and sensed the darkness that would eventually consume him.As they turned to leave the glade, Taranis felt a renewed sense of purpose. The challenges ahead were growing clearer, and with allies like Gandalf and the wise elves at his side, he knew he was part of something far greater than himself. The shadows were stirring, but so were the forces of light, and he was determined to stand among them in the battle to come.Yet, in the back of his mind, he couldn't shake the feeling that he would have to confront Saruman again, and next time, it might be a battle for more than just words.