Story Downloaded from Open Scrolls Archive (https://www.openscrolls.net)

Title: The Elf From America (#252)
Author: Emilie
Chapters: 13

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Archive: Tolkien
Category: Lord of the Rings
Description: A girl named Emilie who is actually myself goes to bed one night and finds herself in Middle Earth the next morning. Along the way she falls in love with someone. So what should she do?
Published: 02 Sep 2003
Updated: 19 Oct 2003
Warnings: Violence, sexual material (later in the book)
Type: Action/adventure
Characters: Elenya, Legolas, Fellowship, Eowyn, Haldir


Chapter 1 - Arriving in Hobbiton

This story is about a dream I had about the Lord of the Rings. I dreamed that I accompanied the Fellowship on the entire journey of the Trilogy. But on this journey I was an elf. I wish to share with many people this dream. I also shall be using myself in the third person if anyone was wondering. I thought this title would be more triggering in the mind. Read it and enjoy!


Emilie tossed and turned in her bed. It was midnight and she still couldn't get to sleep. She decided to start quoting the Fellowship of the Ring. It always helped her go to sleep. She began to recite it but looked out the window. It was cloudy. She hadn't been able to make her wish because of it. Emilie had wished on a star a million times to enter Tolkien's world. She slowly drifted off to sleep with the Fellowship pictures in her mind. What she didn't know was that her wish was about to come true and she would embark on one of the most dangerous journeys of her young life.


*****
Emilie woke up, or at least she thought she woke up. It was no longer night. But she also realized something; she was no longer in her bed! The first thing she saw was vast green rolling plains. The sun was shining marvelously. She also noticed something else; I'm not in pajamas! She was clothed in a long blue dress that fell off the shoulders and bared her arms. She felt the sun on her bare back. A white jewel rested on her forehead connected by a silver chain that wound threw her hair. Her hair was longer and darker. Emilie reached up to her ears daring to touch what she thought was there. It was. Her ears were pointed. She was an elf! My wish has come true! But where am I? She wondered to herself.

She looked around and discovered where she was. She was in Hobbiton; she saw the town in the distance. She saw the hobbit holes with their doors embedded in the ground. She was in the Shire.

"It must be a dream. I refuse to wake up," she said to herself.

Emilie walked into the town trying to appear casual but failed. The hobbits pointed at her and gave her astonished looks. She crossed the bridge and made her way down the lane. Hobbit holes rested gently beside it. For some reason, she knew exactly where she was going. She walked through the gate and up the porch. She took a deep breath, hesitantly knocked on the door, and braced herself for who might answer.

"Yes?"

She saw a hobbit with brown curly hair and beautiful blue eyes. He stared at her in amazement. It was Frodo.

"Well dear me. There is an elf standing at me door," he said with his eyes staring at her.

"Frodo Baggins?" she said.

"Yes? Who might you be?"

She thought to herself for a moment and rattled off the first elvish name that came to her mind.

"My name is Elenya. May I come in?"

"I suppose."

He opened the door for her as she stepped inside. She had to bend down slightly for she was very tall. Frodo began running around like a nervous hobbit.

"Tea?" he shouted to her.

"Please."

Elenya sat at the table as he poured the hot drink into her glass. He twiddled his thumbs nervously.

"May I ask what you are doing here?" he spoke up.

"Yes you may. Let's say I am a wanderer searching for something."

"What?"

"I don't know. I don't know how I came to be here, I just am. Listen, I need a favor," she ran her words together.

"What?" he asked again.

"May I stay with you for awhile?"

"I beg your pardon." he sputtered.

"I must. I have nowhere else to go," she stated simply.

"Where do you come from?" he asked curiously.

"I can not answer that," she said staring into her glass.

"It is fine with me."

She glanced up at him and looked into his blue eyes. A small smile slid across his face. He continued to stare at her for Elenya was very beautiful. He began feeling uncomfortable and nervously moved around in his chair.

"I will have to ask Uncle Bilbo," Frodo said.

"Where is he?" she asked.

"He's writing his book in his study. Come along," he took her hand.

"Please, I don't wish to disturb him."

"Nonsense, you're an elf. Better for him to find out now that you‘re here. I just can't believe you chose today to show up. Bilbo's one hundred and eleventh birthdays is tonight. It will be a magnificent party."

"I'm sure it will."

Frodo led her into the study where she saw a slightly chubby hobbit sitting in his chair writing the words ‘There and Back Again a Hobbit's Tale by Bilbo Baggins’.


"Uncle Bilbo?" Frodo said touching his shoulder.

"Yes, Frodo? I said no more well wishers, visitors, or distant relations," the old hobbit groused.

"Turn around, Bilbo."

He did and immediately dropped the ink which spilled onto the wood floor. She smiled slightly.

"What in Arda is an elf doing in Bag End?" Bilbo asked.

"Bilbo Baggins, I presume?"

"Yes?" he asked, staring at her.

"My name is Elenya. I have something to ask you. But I-I-

"She wishes to stay with us Bilbo," Frodo finished. Way to go Frodo she thought.

"What?! An elf in Bag End! Living with me! You must be joking!" Bilbo exclaimed.

"I know this is a shock, but I need to. Please?" she asked.

"I can not think about it now. Night is coming on and I must get ready for the party," Bilbo said standing up. "I will tell you after the party whether you may or not."

"As you wish," she said knowing that he wouldn't be there after the party and Frodo would have to make the decision.

Suddenly, a knock was heard at the door. But it sounded as though a large stick was knocking instead of a hand. Gandalf!

"See who that is at the door," Bilbo said to Frodo. Emilie watched as Frodo went to answer the door. Bilbo put his papers away in his drawer. Elenya turned around and collided with Gandalf.

"Tis strange when an elf appears in Bag End," he said eyeing her.

"Even more so one of the Istari, Olorin," she said softly and smiled.

"Olorin, yes. I do not know your face but you are familiar to me. Have we met?"

"Perhaps we have."

"Elenya," Frodo interrupted. "Will you accompany me to the field? The party will be starting soon."

"I will be glad to," she said taking his hand. I'm certain it will be quite a party, she thought excitedly.


Chapter 2 - The Party

Elenya was led to the party by Frodo. Night had fallen and the stars shone brightly. Many hobbits had already arrived. They were amazed when the elf walked into their presence.

"Frodo what's going on?" a chubby hobbit walked up to him.

Sam, she guessed.

"Sam, this is Elenya," Frodo told him. "She is a friend. Will you take her to a table please and introduce her to some of the others. I have to speak with Bilbo."

"Of course, Mr. Frodo," Sam shrugged.

He had never been good with women. Emilie looked at all the tables of food. There were all sorts of meats, cheeses, cakes, crumpets, pies, breads, fruits, and other such snacks. Several barrels of the finest ale had been brought in. A large sign over the stage read Happy Birthday Bilbo. Sam took her to the front table where she met more hobbits who accepted her right in when they learned how well she danced and could tell stories.

Emilie watched as many hobbit lads and lasses danced. Frodo was in the midst of them. He stopped and walked over to Sam.

"Go on Sam. Ask Rosy for a dance," he smiled at Sam.

Sam glanced at the rosy cheeked hobbit lass with the flowing golden curls.
He picked up his mug.

"I think I'll have ale," he said.

"Oh no you don't," Frodo said pushing him into the center where Rosy was. He laughed when they began dancing.

Elenya watched all of them, but no one asked her for a dance. She felt a little alone, but not in the least unhappy when she stared at the children enjoying Gandalf's fireworks. Bilbo was telling them all a story as well from one of his adventures. Gandalf began dancing as well. He was very careful to not step on one of the children seeing that he was five feet taller than they.

A small boy walked up to her. He handed her a small bunch of white flowers neatly gathered for her.

"For me?" she asked and he nodded.

Elenya took the flowers and held them to her nose. She then laid them on the table and said, "Would you like to dance?"

The boy nodded his head immediately. She took his hand and walked into the center of the dancing. She took the boys hands and began twirling with him.
He was very cute and very little compared to her. She giggled. Frodo approached and tapped the boy on the shoulder.


"May I cut in?" he asked kneeling down to the boy.

The boy answered him by running away to play with his friends. Elenya watched him leave and laughed. Frodo then bowed to her.

"May I have this dance?"

"Certainly," she took his hand.

Frodo was not that much shorter than her. She was glad that in her dream she had remained the same height as that of her own world in America. Her curly brown hair waved in the wind as her feet moved to the rhythm of the dance.
Frodo and Elenya grabbed each others waists and began to spin quickly. They also noticed that they were the only ones dancing. The other hobbits had taken a break and were watching them. Frodo joined his hands with her as she twirled faster. Suddenly, she heard the hobbits yelling, "Dragon!"

Frodo let go of her hands and rushed to Bilbo's side. Emilie laughed as all the hobbits knelt to the ground as a red fiery dragon flew over their heads.
It flew over the lake and exploded into many beautiful sparks. The hobbits all shouted and laughed at the wondrous sight.

Emilie made her way into a large tent where she saw Gandalf keeping a close watch on two dirty hobbits washing dishes.

"Merry and Pippin," she said a little too loud…

"Yes?" Pippin answered. "Who are you?"

"She's an elf. I saw her dancing with Frodo earlier," Merry answered.

"Oooooh dancing," Pippin chanted.

"Cut it out!" she said a little sharply. "It’s not like that."

"Really?" they both asked.

She was glad for the interruption of the hobbits outside shouting "speech" for Bilbo. She left the tent and made her way to the front of the stage and took a seat by Frodo. Bilbo was walking up to the stage to present a speech for the hobbits. He was obviously somewhat drunk from all the ale as he slurred his words.

"My dear Bagginses and Buffets! Tooks and Brandybucks!" he rattled off more names of all the hobbit families and continued with his speech. "Today is my one hundredth and eleventh birthday!"

Loud shouts of "happy birthday" sounded out. Bilbo continued.

"Alas, eleventy one year is far too short a time to live among such excellent and admirable hobbits. I don't know half of you half as well as I should like. And I like less than half of you half as well as you deserve."

Odd stares and confused rumors rippled through the crowd of hobbits. Bilbo began nervously fumbling with something in his pocket.

"I have things to do," he nervously said.

An eerie look came into his eyes. He muttered something which could not be heard.

"I regret to inform you that this is the end," he announced. "I'm going now. I bid you all a fond farewell. Goodbye," he fixed his gaze on Frodo.

Then he disappeared. He did not fall underneath a table. He turned invisible.

THE RING!


Chapter 3 - The Shadow of the Past

He had put on the Ring! He was now gone probably back to Bag End. Frodo knew. She had to stop him before he reached Bag End. Bilbo needed to flee.
He couldn't stay. It was one of those things that were meant to be. Elenya immediately went to find Frodo who was near the stage where Bilbo had disappeared. She put a hand on his shoulder.

"Frodo?"

"I didn't think he'd ever do it. I have to stop him!" Frodo said standing up.

"No, you can't!" she exclaimed standing in front of him.

"Why not?"

"Because...because-
She was at a loss for words. She felt ludicrous as she just said the silliest words that came to mind.

"Because we never finished our dance," she babbled. You idiot! she thought to herself.

"What? Bilbo's gone and you want to dance?!" he looked at her.

"Um........yes," she tried to smile but mostly stared at her feet.

"Come on, then." Frodo took her hand and stepped quickly to the center of the dancing. A lively tune played, and Elenya and Frodo began to spin as they were doing before. They locked hands for a few minutes until Frodo finally let her go, but she didn't stop spinning. The moon shone a ray of light on her as she continued to move her feet to the song. She was glowing. All the other hobbits were watching the elf dance. On the last part of the song, she spun and spun and spun. It finally stopped, and she dropped to the ground. But she noticed something. Frodo was not there.

She instantly took off for the lane that led to Bag End. She walked inside and saw Frodo standing near the fire with an envelope in his hand. He didn't take his eyes off it. She walked up to him and touched his shoulder. He seemed startled.

"I'm sorry for deserting you. But I wanted to find Bilbo. He's gone, Elenya."

"I know," she said.

"He's left Bag End to me. I'm in charge now and I decide if you stay or go." His eyes met hers and a small smile slid across his face. "You can stay for as long as you want."

"Thank you, Frodo."


******
She stayed with him for some months. He never changed and neither did she. They had spent some time in the garden and in the woods. They were coming out of a nearby inn one evening with Sam. Frodo had obviously had too much ale, but he had been in worse condition. One night Elenya had a swig herself and Frodo learned the reason why elves do not drink ale.

"Goodnight Sam," Frodo said walking out of the inn and nearly stumbling upon the steps.

"Goodnight Mr. Frodo!" Sam said. "Goodnight Elenya!"

"Goodnight master Samwise," she smiled.

Sam and Elenya had become good friends. She was even better friends with Frodo. Frodo slipped an arm around the rather tall elf's waist and grinned happily becoming quite attached to her. Elenya reminded herself that this could possibly still all be a dream but how could she resist the curly dark hair and the beautiful blue eyes of the young hobbit? However she also reminded herself of the Quest he was about to take, though she would have another of her own to fulfill.

They walked into the door at Bag End, and Elenya immediately sensed a presence.
The wind blew through the open window knocking papers to the ground. A hand out of the darkness took Frodo by the cloak. The elf let out a brief scream, but was silenced when she realized who it was.

"Gandalf!"


*****
They were sitting at the table. Elenya had seen the writing on the Ring with her own eyes. Gandalf had told Frodo all about the tale of the Ring. But Elenya knew the story by heart of how it came to Isildur, then to Gollum, and finally to Bilbo who kept it hidden in the Shire. It could stay hidden there no longer. Gandalf told Frodo that Sauron had not been destroyed and that his minions were searching for the ring.

"Can we not just put it away, Gandalf?" Frodo said standing up with the Ring in his hand. "I mean no one knows it's here do they? Do they Gandalf?"

"There was another who knew that Bilbo carried the Ring. I searched everywhere for the creature Gollum but the Enemy found him first."

He went onto explain that Gollum was tortured. Elenya pictured the pitiful creature in her mind and its pain. She felt mercy for it still had a part to play, but she couldn't believe all the trouble it would cause.

"Take it Gandalf!" Frodo said holding the Ring up to Gandalf.

"No Frodo."

"You must take it!"

"You can not offer me this Ring!"

"I'm giving it to you!" Frodo said determined.

"Don't tempt me Frodo!" Gandalf shouted. "I dare not take it not even to keep it safe. Do you see Frodo? I would use this Ring out of a desire to do good. But through me it would wield a power too great and terrible to imagine."

"But it can not stay in the Shire!" he said.

"No it can't."

Frodo looked at the elf.

"Do not look to me to solve this dilemma," she said backing away. "It's your Ring."

"You say such things after you have heard the tale with your own ears. There is only one that the Ring belongs to!" he scolded her. She felt silly. But she looked again to Frodo. He clutched the Ring in his hand.

"I will leave. Where do I go?" he asked.

"Make for the village of Bree," Gandalf said helping him pack.

"It is not wise for him to travel along, Gandalf. I shall accompany him," Elenya said.

"But you are a girl!" Frodo objected.

"Do you not know that some of the world's greatest heroines were women? Joan of Arc, Catherine the Great, Queen Elizabeth!"

Of course, they did not understand a word she said but they could not stop her from accompanying Frodo. She suddenly heard a noise from the window. Frodo dropped to the floor as Gandalf raised his stick to the person Elenya knew who was there already. Gandalf heard a groan as he picked up the figure and planted him upon the table.

"Confound it all Samwise Gamgee!" he yelled. "Have you been eavesdropping?"

"I don't know what you are talking about Mr. Gandalf. There aren't no eaves in the Shire on my honor. I was merely cutting the grass under the verge there."

"A little late for trimming the verge don't you think?" Gandalf said to him.

"What did you hear? Quick!"

"Nothing important. Well that is I heard a great deal about A Ring and a dark lord and somethin about the end of the world." Elenya laughed as Sam continued, "Please Mr. Gandalf don’t hurt me. Don't turn me into anything unnatural!" Frodo interrupted.

"Sam if you really care about me, you will keep it a dead secret. If you don't, if you even breathe a world of what you've heard here, then I hope Gandalf will turn you into a spotted toad and fill the garden full of grass snakes!"

Sam fell on his knees trembling which Elenya laughed at even more. "Get up Sam!" Gandalf yelled. "I have thought of a better use of you. Something to shut your mouth, and punish you properly for listening. You shall go away with Frodo and the elf!"

"Me sir?" cried Sam, springing up like a puppy ready to go on a walk. "Me go and see elves and all! Hooray!" he shouted, and then burst into tears.


Chapter 4 - Tom Bombadil and the Barrow Wights

Sam, Frodo, and Elenya had been on their journey for many days and two other companions had joined them; Merry and Pippin. Elenya was glad of their company though she felt odd being the only girl among four men. They had made it to the old forest. Emilie was eagerly anticipating the next part of the journey. She hoped to make a difference in the story. The companions had stopped to rest by the Old Willow Tree. Emilie forced herself to stay awake but fell into the Tree's spell and fell asleep. When she awoke, Sam was shaking her ferociously.

"Awake elf! I need your help!" Sam shouted. She immediately got up cursing herself for falling asleep. She helped Sam pull Frodo from the root of the tree.

"You know Sam? That beastly tree threw me in! I felt it! The root twisted me around and tipped me in!

"You were dreaming Frodo," Elenya told him.

The trio realized that Pippin and Merry were no longer with them. She went to the other side of the tree and saw their feet sticking out. Pippin had vanished through the crack. Merry's legs still showed and though Elenya and Sam tried desperately to pull them out, the tree was stronger. They tried the next best thing fire, but the tree threatened to kill Merry and Pippin. A voice was heard singing and Elenya knew instantly who it was.

Hey dol! Merry dol! Ring a dong dillo!
Ring a dong! Hop along! Fal lal the willow!
Tom Bom, jolly Tom, Tom Bombadillo!

Tom helped them to release the two hobbits from the tree. He then took them home to Goldberry. Emilie couldn't wait to see her but was dreading the next part of the journey. It was something she hoped to avoid.


*****
The hobbits and Elenya spent the night with Tom Bombadil and Goldberry.
Emilie knew the Ring had no power over Tom Bombadil, nor did he have any power over it. She felt amazingly comfortable with him and dreaded leaving, especially considering that she knew what was about to happen on the next episode of their journey.
The hobbits all slept together in the same room, but the elf preferred to have her own room and her own privacy.

The next morning, they arose and said goodbye to Tom. The hobbits were all sad to leave him and Goldberry. After they had departed, Frodo remembered something. They had forgotten to say farewell to Goldberry! Frodo was so upset with himself that he decided to turn back, but there on the hill she stood. They all bowed to her, including Elenya. She spoke to them gently.

"Speed now fair guests! And hold to your purpose! North with the wind in the left eye and a blessing on your footsteps! Make haste while the sun shines!
Farewell elf and elf-friend, it was a merry meeting!"

They continued on their way much to Frodo's dismay at leaving Goldberry and Tom. Elenya did not wish to leave either for she knew what was to take place.

They began their journey into the Misty Mountains. There going was very slow because fog and mist had enveloped them. They walked very slowly to avoid getting separated. They were on the Barrow Downs and darkness began to appear through the mist.

"Follow me!" Frodo said but the darkness began to grow darker.

Elenya became separated from Frodo. She cried out each of the hobbits names and for light as well, but none came. She stood listening and trembling to herself. Though she was an elf in body and could sense the foul presence amidst her, she did not know how to conquer the power for she was an American girl at heart. Voices came calling her telling her to go every which way. She tried to block them out and ignore them, but was not able to do so.

"NO!!" She finally screamed out in torment of the voices in the fog.

A dark figure appeared in front of her. She reached for the small dagger she had hidden away in her silver cloak, but the figure leaned over her inching closer and closer toward her face. There was no other time she had been this terrified. The figure gripped her with a hand as cold as ice. She felt the clothes on her dress falling down the curve of her arm. Elenya's mind went black and she remembered no more.


*****
When she came to, Elenya found herself in the dark cave of a Barrow Wight.
The moment had come. She was clothed in a clear white, which she hated for it showed the outline of her breasts clearly. She felt bare underneath. Her silver dress was nowhere to be seen. A sword was placed across her chest. She feared that she was already under the spells of the barrow wights. Sam, Merry, and Pippin lay nearby in the same appearance but there faces appeared a deathly pale. Many treasures lay about them. There heads bore circlets of gold, and chains were around there waists as well as Elenya's. Across their necks lay a long naked sword. Elenya removed the sword instantly. She hated being clothed in this foul rag.

Suddenly, out of the darkness a song was heard. It was from the Barrow Wights. Elenya saw Frodo sitting up nearby. She looked at him, terrified. The voices spoke.

"Cold be hand and heart and bone
and cold be sleep under stone:
never more to wake on stony bed
never, toll the Sun fails and the Moon is dead
In the black wind the stars shall die."

That was the part Elenya couldn't take. She fell to her knees and began to cry. The Elves loved starlight best of all things. She begged for the voice to stop but it didn't.

"And still on gold here let them lie
till the dark lord lifts his hand
over dead sea and withered land."

A dark figure began to approach the elf. She couldn't bear to think about what was to happen. The figure reached an arm toward her, but she suddenly heard a shriek and saw Frodo holding his sword in hand. She saw him look down at her as the creature shrunk back. Frodo began to sing.

"Ho! Tom Bombadollo!
By water, wood and hill, by the read and willow,
By fire, sun and moon, hearken now and hear us!
Come, Tom Bombadill, for our need is near us!"

A voice answered out of the darkness singing. It was Tom!

"Old Tom Bombadil is a merry fellow,
Bright blue is his jacket and his boots are yellow
None has caught him yet, for Tom, he is the master:
His songs are stranger songs, and his feet are faster."

A great light appeared in the cave and there appeared Tom. The light fell upon the elf, and she seemed in a trance. She was entrapped by the light. Tom continued.


"Get out you old wight! Vanish in the Sunlight,

Shrivel like cold mist, like the winds go wailing,

Out into the barren lands far beyond the mountains!

Come never here again! Leave your barrow empty!

Lost and forgotten be, darker than darkness,

where gates stand for ever shut, till the world is mended."

A long shriek faded into the darkness. The wight was gone. "Come friend Frodo!” Tom said. "Let us get out into the clean grass! You must help me take them out! Your elf friend seems to be in shock!"

The next thing Elenya knew was that Frodo had taken her arm as she leaned over his shoulder. He helped her out into the sun. Her eyes flickered as soon as she came out into the air. She came back to the world and held a hand to her face to shield out the sun.

"Thank you Frodo," she said when everyone had made it safely from the cave.

Merry and Pippin had thought that they had been dreaming.

"Let us go on!" Frodo said.

"Not dressed like this Mr. Frodo, “Sam said looking at the white robes that were nearly see through. "Where are my clothes?"

"You won't find your clothes again," Tom spoke. "You've found yourselves again out of the deep water. Clothes are but little loss, if you escape from drowning. Cast off these cold rags! Run naked on the grass, while Tom goes hunting!"

He was gone before Elenya could object. She would not remove the clothes and run naked in the grass. Not in front of four hobbits; four hobbit males no less. She sat down on the rock dressed as she was though she wished with all her heart to remove the horrible robe. She saw Frodo begin to take his off.

"What are you doing?!" she exclaimed.

Frodo stopped for a moment, "Doing what Tom said. You should heed his advice."

"No!" She refused. "Your people may run unclad through the grass, but not me.
I am an elf, and a girl."

"Suit yourself," Frodo laughed. He began to continue, but Elenya turned around so her back was facing them. She would not look at a bunch of naked hobbits.

She heard them in the background singing and laughing as the sun warmed their skin, but she refused to do as they were. She didn't know why. She envied them as the sun shone on her fair back. They could nearly see through the white rags. Frodo approached her once again and she turned and looked at him her eyes resting chiefly on his face. How could she not for he had a beautiful face.

"Are you certain you will not take Tom's advice?" Frodo said smugly grinning at her. "Or perhaps you are too timid and require some help."

Frodo touched the strap on her shoulder, but she quickly removed his hand and stood up turning around proudly. Frodo grinned. Elenya did not sit again until she felt Frodo's presence move away from her. Finally, Tom returned with their sacks and six ponies. He handed them each their clothes and walked to the rock after the hobbits had taken theirs.

"So the elf kept her modesty," he laughed. "Here my lady," he said handing her a green dress. "It is Goldberry's. She requests that you take it."

"Thank you."

Elenya took the dress. Fortunately, there was a tall bush nearby. She immediately went behind it and stripped the white robe from her body. As Frodo was changing, he glanced toward the bush, but could not clearly see her though he could see her outline. She came out from behind the bush clad in the green dress. She felt much better as the sun shined upon her bare arms and back. They thanked Tom many times and continued on their way. Tom accompanied them to then end of the Misty Mountains.

"Tom's country ends here: he will not pass the borders.
Tom has his house to mind, and Goldberry is waiting!"

The hobbits and the elf watched him climb upon Fatty Lumpkin's back, and rode away singing in the dusk.


Chapter 5 - An Encounter in Bree

Elenya couldn't wait to reach the Inn of the Prancing Pony, for there they would finally meet Strider. Aragorn had been her favorite character in the book. He was brave, courageous, kingly, and above all in love with the fairest of all elves in Middle Earth.

They reached the gate of Bree. It was raining and cold and dark. Elenya felt faint. She had never traveled so far and she had just been through the traumatic experience in the Barrow Wights cave. She was an American girl that had only read about these stories not witnessed them, but she had to remain strong if she wished to accompany the Fellowship once they reached Rivendell.

"What do you want?" the gatekeeper asked when they had knocked.

"We're heading for the Prancing Pony," Frodo answered.

The gatekeeper opened the gate and was astonished. "Hobbits, four hobbits and an elf, no less! What business brings you here?"

"We wish to stay at the Inn," Elenya spoke up.

"Our business is our own," Frodo said.

"Alright sir, I meant no offence. My job to ask questions after nightfall," he said opening the gate. "There's been talk of strange folk abroad. Can't be too careful in these parts."

The elf knew the hobbits must feel completely strange and small in a strange world as they entered Bree. People there were big, as they would say. They were impolite. A stranger knocked into the elf and she sank to the muddy ground. He moved on not hindered by it. She was cloaked and hooded and he did not know her to be an elf. Frodo helped her to her feet.

"Thank you Frodo. I am fine," she said after she had taken his hand.

"There," Frodo pointed seeing the sign for the Prancing Pony.

They entered the door to the Inn and Elenya suddenly felt uncomfortable. The hobbits, Pippin and Merry, were excited as they heard the sounds of drunken men and the outpourings of ale. The elf did not remove her cloak. The only other woman inside was an immodest bar maid who was most likely a whore. Elenya nearly felt pity for the girl but then disregarded it thinking that she had chosen her state and what she would do with her own body. Elenya would not resort to that.

Frodo walked to the counter where Elenya could see Barliman Butterbur.

"Excuse me?" Frodo said trying to see if anyone was at the counter.

"Good evening little masters," Barliman knelt down the counter. "If you’re seeking accommodations, I've got some nice cozy hobbit sized rooms. Is the tall person with you as well?"

"Yes," Frodo answered.

"Would you care for some ale Mr...?"

"Underhill," Frodo answered. "My name's Underhill. We're friends of Gandalf the Gray. Can you tell him we've arrived?"

"Gandalf?" Butterbur scratched his head. "I do not know any Gandalf. Oh wait! Yes I remember now! Elderly man , big gray beard, pointy hat. Haven't seen him for six months."

The hobbits leaned toward Frodo and asked about their situation. Frodo ordered some ale and sat down at a table. The elf simply requested tea. She then took courage and removed her hood. She knew that someone was there to protect her; she just didn't know which one he was or where he was. However, she knew that he wouldn't allow anything to happen to the hobbits or the elf.

Elenya's long brown hair fell out as soon as she removed the hood and instantly, the attentions of the men were drawn to her. They stared at her beauty. They were also confused about the appearance of an elf at Bree. There were no other women there but the one ugly inn wench. She wondered if the men would try to take advantage of her. Frodo grasped her trembling hand.

"Everything will be fine," he said trying to comfort her knowing her thoughts.

Emilie became less nervous when she watched the endless refills Pippin and Merry went back for. She let out a brief laugh as Merry returned with a pint and Pippin went to the counter to get one.

"That man in the corner has been staring at you all night," Sam pointed to a dark hooded man in the corner.

Elenya smiled, knowing who it was. She felt like standing up and walking over to him, but she was suddenly gripped with a sense of fear. Aragorn was to be feared. He was dangerous; more dangerous than any person you could find besides the Dark Lord himself as she remembered from a passage from the Trilogy. However, she remembered it was a good kind of dangerous. Elenya suddenly felt a deep longing to meet Strider no matter how Strider-like he would appear.

"Me or the elf?" Frodo asked Sam.

"No, you. I am certain," Sam said.


"Don't worry Sam. Gandalf shall be here soon."

"I'll be back," Elenya said looking at her empty mug of tea. She stood up and began to walk toward the counter, but before she reached it a tall man blocked her path. She tried to go around him, but he stopped her. He folded his arms. She began to grow nervous but did not show it.

"Let me pass!" the elf said loudly.

"Tis strange indeed when a beautiful woman enters Bree," he said touching her shoulder.

She flinched as he took a strand of her dark hair in his hand.

"Tis strange when a venomous snake tries to take advantage of an elf," she said glaring at the big man.

"I am aware of no advantages here," he said taking her hand. "Merely a rash request to fulfill all of your desires in one night."

She knew what was happening and refused.

"I am disinclined to acquiesce to your request," she said remembering an old line from a movie. He gave her a blank look. "Means no!" she said loudly attempting to pass him.

He took her arm in his strong grip and twisted her around to face him. She let out a brief scream.

"I am not finished with you!" the man said angrily taking a handful of her hair bringing her face to his. Frodo looked toward her and stood up to aid her when another man approached her and spoke.

"Let the girl go!" He removed the man's hand strongly from her arm. It was Strider.

"And what have you to do with it?" the man asked glaring at the hooded stranger.

"You should never attack an Elven woman. They are never to be underestimated," he replied, for he knew one himself.

"I think you should clear out, weather beaten fool, and leave her be!" said the man pulling a knife from its sheath. Elenya watched as Strider drew a long sword from the scabbard at his belt. It was not Anduril but it gleamed and pointed at the big man's chest. The other men sat back down in their seats as it became apparent that Aragorn was determined to protect her.

"Return to your seat before I split you into two!" Aragorn threatened.

"There, there. I will do as you say man," the big man said moving away from Elenya and taking a seat near the fire. Aragorn sheathed his sword.

"Thank you kindly, Estel," she dared to say his name.

"No thanks are necessary Elenya." She was surprised, how could he know her? Emilie thought she knew why. Aragorn had been her favorite character in the book. She had done research on him far than any other. He would certainly know her better than any other of the Fellowship.

"I know your name and your face but I do not believe we have met," he said to her.

"We have not met yet we know each other well. I look forward to speaking to you again, but now I must return to my friends," Emilie answered.

"Tell your master Underhill that if I was him, I would stop your friends from talking too much. Drink, fire, and chance meeting are pleasant enough, but well this isn't the Shire. There are queer folk about. Though I say it as shouldn't, you may think," he added with a wry smile seeing Elenya's glance. "And there have been even stranger travelers through Bree lately." Elenya heard Pippin and Merry uttering the tale of Bilbo's disappearance at the party. "Your master had better do something quick!"

Elenya made her way to the table and told Frodo of the message. He jumped up on the table and began to talk. He felt odd but began to sing a ridiculous song Bilbo had been rather fond of. When he was finished, shouts called out for more. He jumped off the tale with a crash and a bump. The laughter stopped for Frodo had vanished! Elenya thought, THE RING!


Chapter 6 - Strider

The people at the Prancing Pony thought of Frodo now as a magician who could turn himself invisible of unknown purpose and power. Frodo crawled under one of the tables in a dark corner by Strider, who gave no sign of his thoughts. Frodo took off the Ring. Elenya knew where he was but sat down at the table allowing Frodo and Strider to talk. She remembered what they said from the passages in the book.

"Well?" Strider had said. "Why did you do that? You have made it worse than any of your friends! You have put your foot in it! Or should I say your finger?"

"I don't know what you mean," Frodo replied.

"Then if you please Mr. Baggins, I should like a quiet talk with you. For you may hear something to your advantage."

"I will talk with you later."

After this, Frodo tried to convince the people at the Pony that he had fell and slipped underneath a table. They did not believe him, but they had to accept his word. Elenya heard Butterbur tell Frodo that he should like a word with him before.


*****
Elenya and Frodo went back into the parlor with Sam and Pippin. Merry was gone, and the fire had burned low. Elenya was glad for many of the men had departed to sleep including the one that had threatened her earlier. She was glad and removed the cloak, which had still been connected around her neck. It toppled to the floor showing her simple green dress. She noticed something though; Strider was there. Pippin inquired to he was.

"I am called Strider, and though he may have forgotten it, your friend promised to have a quiet talk with me," Strider said about Frodo.

Elenya watched as Frodo asked what Strider had to say. Strider replied by saying several things but that he shall want a reward. Elenya smiled for she knew that he wished to come with them. Frodo said he would want to know more about him first. Strider smiled and proceeded to tell Frodo of why he would be to his advantage on his journey. He told Frodo that he knew many dark things too many for a fact. They continued to speak from the passages that Emilie remembered from the book until Butterbur came in with the note from Gandalf. It was then when Frodo read it that Strider could be trusted.
Strider also told them of the Ring wraiths and that they were in Bree looking for Baggins.

"Heed any advice he gives you," Elenya smiled glancing her eye at Strider. "He knows of what he speaks."

"The elf is right," Strider replied though the hobbits doubted him. "I am the real Strider, fortunately” he said looking down on them with his face softened by a sudden smile.” I am Aragorn son of Arathorn; and if by my life or death I can save you, I will."

Emilie looked at his face. Though he was stained from his travels, Strider was handsome. She wondered how handsome he would be at Rivendell, but she admired him. Simply that; she admired and loved him for his courage, bravery, and kindness. She didn't love him in the same way the Evenstar did and she never would. Arwen was his and he was hers. Elenya could never hope for a relationship with anyone like that in Middle Earth.

******
They slept fitfully that night, or at least Elenya did. Aragorn remained in the room sitting in a chair watching the hobbits and the elf sleep. She felt protected when he watched over her, but seemed worried about him. She also could sense something when she slept. She knew what it was and huddled closer under the covers. The wraiths were coming to the Inn. She tried to sleep but could not. She sat up in her bed flinging the covers off her. The moon glowed on her frightened face. She felt cold. Her chest and arms were bare for she wore a simple night robe to cover her. Strider's eyes gleamed in the fire.

"Sleep shall come to you," Strider said to her.

"I don't think so," she said worriedly looking out of the window at the street.

"I know you elf. You take on the appearance of an elf, but you are not one.
I know this, but I trust you. You have been with Frodo haven't you?"

"Since the beginning," she said placing her hands over her shoulders.

"Not many maidens would act the way you do coming on an adventure like this.
You are strange. You come from far away." Aragorn knew her almost as much as she knew him. Emilie looked out the window and let out a sigh. She felt tired but to terrified to sleep though she knew nothing would harm her when she was with Aragorn. "Sleep," Aragorn said as if reading her thoughts. "You will need it." She heard him begin to sing softly. It was an elvish song and she felt comforted as she lay back in the covers and closed her eyes , drifting off to sleep to Strider’s voice.


*****
The next thing she knew Strider was rousing her from her sleep. She sat up instantly.

"What has happened?" she asked climbing out of bed.

"Dark things. Clothe yourself for we must depart! Wake the others!"

Aragorn took off down the stairs as Emilie stripped off her white night dress and slipped on her green dress. She woke the hobbits who were already dressed. They met Strider downstairs and said farewell to Butterbur.

The elf kept pace with Strider easily. All those jogs back home paid off and she also had an elf's body, walking with light-footed ease. That will not always be the case she thought of further events, but blocked them from her mind.

"Gentlemen, we do not stop till nightfall," Strider said watching the hobbits cease walking trying to stop for breakfast.

"What about breakfast?" Pippin asked.

"We've already had it," Strider said confused.

"We had first breakfast. What about second breakfast?" Pippin asked. Emilie laughed and continued on with Strider.

"Don't think he knows about second breakfast, Pip," Merry said to his Took cousin.

"What about elevensies? Luncheon? Afternoon tea? Dinner and supper? He knows about them doesn't he?" Pippin was worried.

"I wouldn't count on it," Merry replied.

Strider threw an apple to Merry who caught it. Elenya threw one to Pippin. Though her aim was bad, he could have caught it. Instead he let it come into contact with his head.

"Pippin!" Elenya laughed.

The travelers journeyed throughout the whole day and didn't stop until nightfall. Aragorn took them to the great watch tower of Amon Sul. They took shelter in the first floor of the tower.

"Keep these close," he said opening a sack and throwing each hobbit a small sword. "I assume you’re armed," he turned to Elenya.

"Only with a dagger," she said.

"Here," he said. "You may take my crossbow though a sword would aid you better."

"Thank you Aragorn," Elenya answered.

"Stay here. I'm going to have a look around."

"Wait a moment!" Elenya stood up and walked toward him. "Step aside with me for a moment. I do not want to alarm the hobbits."

"What is it?" Aragorn asked walking outside the tower cave with her.

"I sense something," the elf said. "It is not near us now, but it's drawing closer. I don't know."

"I do not underestimate elven instincts," Aragorn answered her. "Do not leave them! Watch them closely. Make sure they do not light a fire. I shan't be gone long."

Elenya walked back inside to the hobbits. They were all sleeping comfortably already. Elenya sat down. She was exhausted but forced herself to stay awake. Darkness had come. The moon was clouded and gave no light. She wished that Aragorn wasn't gone. She was drowsy and her eyes closed. She opened them quickly. She was going to fall asleep. She knew it. She could do nothing though she knew the results would be fatal. Elenya fell back against the ground and remembered no more.

*****
She awoke to the sound of Frodo shouting. She sat up immediately and saw him stepping upon a fire. She cursed herself for falling asleep. The hobbits had lit a fire!

"NO!" she yelled. "Idiot, idiot," she said to herself grabbing her crossbow and dagger.

They were coming. They were very close. Suddenly, they heard the sounds of the wraiths. She ran outside with the others and saw the cloaked dark figures ascending the tower. Frodo drew his sword with the others.

"GO!" Elenya yelled to them.

The hobbits and the elf ascended to the top. Though there was no frightening music like the movie, a chill crawled up and down Emilie's spine. She was terrified.

"Where is Strider?" she asked herself.

She waited. Each second was torture. Then she saw it; the dark cloaked figures with no faces appeared. There were five of them. They inched nearer and nearer at every moment piercing Elenya's heart and sending an icy feeling through her veins. She watched as the hobbits stood in front of her and Frodo. Sam was scared out of his wits but loyal to his master. As the creatures approached with their swords pointed toward the hobbits, Sam slashed his sword against the leaders.

"Back you devils!" Sam yelled.

The wraith knocked the sword from Sam and the stalwart hobbit fell to the ground. Merry and Pippin were also easily flung aside. They landed on the ground like helpless rag dolls. The wraith leader approached Frodo ready to kill him. Elenya cried out and bravely stepped in front of him, protecting her friend. An arrow was shot from her bow to the wraith, but didn't impair his abilities at all. She knew it would be worthless against them as Strider had warned. Oh, how she wished he were here. She took out her dagger and began to fight with it. She tried to stab the wraith but simply pierced through his cloak ripping fragments of it. The creature grabbed her throat lifting her off the ground. She clutched at the hand that held her. Would this be her death? She looked into the black cloak with no face simply a ghost living inside. He let her throat go and threw her to the ground. She landed hard and gripped her side. She felt like every bone in her body was breaking. She saw Frodo drop his sword and fall to the ground. He lifted the Ring to his face and put it on his finger. Emilie saw no more of him but watched as the Wraiths pursued something against the ground. She watched the leader stab his sword into something she knew to be Frodo.

Suddenly, Aragorn appeared bearing a torch. He immediately startled the wraiths. Frodo took the Ring off and Elenya crawled to his side. Sam was there already. He looked at her.

"You're hurt," Sam said listening to Frodo's screams and the sound of the burning wraiths.

"I'll be ok," she answered.

Strider had finished. He rushed to Frodo's side. He picked up a knife lying nearby.

"He's been stabbed by a morgul blade. We must get him to Rivendell." Strider helped Elenya to her feet for he knew her to be hurt. Nothing was broken, though , for which she was thankful. She stood up and managed to walk following every one else as Strider led them away from Weathertop and into the forests.

"We're six days from Rivendell," Sam shouted. "He’ll never make it."

Elenya gripped the pain in her side hoping Frodo would be all right. She knew he would but she prayed and hoped none the less. Would she be all right? She needed to be strong for there was much more to come after this!


Chapter 7 - Rivendell

Elenya felt tired. They kept running through the woods. She kept hearing the cries of the Nazgul following them. They stopped at the Trollshaws. Aragorn held a torch to the sky expecting some sign to come. Elenya sat on the grass beside Sam and Frodo. Three stone trolls sat around them.

"Mr. Frodo?" Sam felt his head. "He's going cold."

"Is he going to die?" Pippin asked.

"He's passing into the Shadow world. He'll soon become a wraith like them," Aragorn said to them.

Suddenly, a white horse came into view gleaming in the Shadows running swiftly. It flashed as if it were studded with gems like living stars. The rider was Glorfindel, Elenya knew. He would take Frodo to Rivendell. Glorfindel was a handsome elf-lord from Rivendell with golden hair. He explained to Aragorn that they had received a message from Gandalf nine days ago. He was traveling to Rivendell but was not there yet.

"My master is sick and wounded. He needs rest," Sam told Glorfindel.

"Aye, I see that he does. I must get him to Rivendell. But who is the tall person hooded and cloaked beside him?" he glanced at Elenya.

Elenya threw back the hood revealing her face. Glorfindel was very surprised.

"Aragorn, you a Ranger and four hobbits travel with an elf? A beautiful one, no less. You are not from Rivendell are you?" he asked her.

"No," Elenya replied.

"Lorien or Mirkwood?" he guessed.

"No. I do not wish to talk about my homeland. Besides, Frodo must be taken care of first."

"I will not ride the horse," Frodo spoke up. "I will not leave my friends."

Glorfindel smiled. " Your friends would not be in danger if you were not with them. It is you, Frodo, and that which you bear that brings us great peril." Frodo was set upon the horse. "Ride forward! Ride!" Glorfindel cried. " Noro Lim Asfaloth!"

Elenya watched Frodo ride off. The horse would bring him to the river where Gandalf would bring upon the fast raging river of galloping horses with Elrond that would consume the wraiths.

*****
Elenya sat anxiously beside Gandalf. He had told her the tale of his absence from the Prancing Pony. She knew it already, but enjoyed hearing the tale from his lips. She was in Rivendell now beside Frodo's bed. The hobbit lay peacefully sleeping in it. It could be said of him but not for her. Her side still hurt. Elenya was still clothed in the green dress, which was now soiled and filthy with many holes in it. The sweat from her encounter with the wraiths made her sticky. She felt like a hot bath but didn't want to leave Frodo. Gandalf could sense that she was uncomfortable.

"You may leave if you wish," he said blowing a smoke ring into the air.

"No, I don't want to stray to far from him. I doubt Sam wishes to either," she smiled watching Sam.

He was lying on the bed beside his master sleeping upon his maser's unwounded shoulder. Elenya watched Frodo utter another nonunderstandible word as he had done in his sleep talk.

"You should sleep. You need your strength," Gandalf told her.

"I know you are right, but I don't want him to wake up and not see me here."

"He will understand. You're hurt as well. You should really have Elrond look at your side."

"No," Elenya said grasping it. "It's no more than a sprain. It will heal."

"Sometimes the easiest wounds hurt the most. And take long to heal."

"Where am I?" Elenya heard the voice of Frodo waking.

"You are in the House of Elrond," Gandalf answered.

"Elenya?" Frodo said holding out his hand.

"I'm here," she said kneeling beside him.

"How long have I been asleep?"

"Four nights and three days to be exact," Elenya answered.

"You have been here all this time?" he asked looking at her figure.

She did feel miserable. Her hair was all tangled and knotty. She had not bathed for days and most likely stank.

"Elrond has prepared a room for her, but she did not want to leave your side. I could not even convince her to sleep," Gandalf told Frodo.

"Thank you for staying," Frodo smiled at her. "You are a good friend."

"You're welcome."

"I could not have reached this far without Strider," Frodo said turning to Gandalf.

"There are few left in the world like Aragorn, son of Arathorn. The race of kings from over the Sea is nearly at an end. It may be that this War of the Ring will be their last adventure. Elenya, now that Frodo is awake, I plead with you to take some rest. I wish to speak with him alone."

Elenya looked at Frodo for an answer.

"I have Sam too. Elenya, go. You look exhausted," Frodo replied.

"Thank you. I shall."

She left the room but not before she passed Elrond.

"So you have finally decided to take some rest," he smiled. Elrond set all her fears at rest. He was wise and learned beyond years. He was an elf like her but seemed much older if there is such a thing as old for elves. He was kind and brave she remembered from his battle during the Last Alliance.

"Yes, the hobbit is awake. Where may I find my room, Lord Elrond?" she asked.

"Lelia, the maidservant, will show you," Elrond said.

"Thank you."

Elenya departed. It didn't take long for the maidservant to find her. She had been outside the door of Frodo's room waiting for any command from Elrond or Gandalf. She took the exhausted elf to her room. Elenya walked inside and thanked her. It was a beautiful room, even more beautiful than her own. Long white silk drapes surrounded the bed. A small table and chair were set up with paper and ink inside for any such writing purpose. A nightstand beside the bed held a basin of water and towel. What caught her attention the most was the dress laying upon the bed. It had been set out for her; a beautiful silver dress. Almost nearly like the one she had first found herself in before her abduction from the Barrow Wights. The sleeves were different. They were cut in a Renaissance fashion clear and flowing showing her arms.

Elenya first bathed herself with the basin of water. She washed away the sweat and dirt that had been encrusted upon her body and then slipped into the exquisite dress. She felt beautiful in it. Elenya went to the window and pushed it open. Sunlight immediately enveloped the room. Her window looked out toward the garden. She decided to walk outside.

Rivendell was astonishing and overwhelming. It was exactly like the pictures she had seen except better and more beautiful. The white marble pillars that gleamed like pearls and jewels in the sunlight. The trees and mountains surrounding the city. The waterfalls that flowed unceasingly mists surrounding their features. Elenya loved every minute of Rivendell. She would be sad to leave it if she was allowed with the Fellowship. The sun shined upon her back. She turned and saw the three hobbits and Frodo. He walked up to her and offered her a brief hug. But then he saw something and immediately raced to it. Elenya watched but did not follow. She wanted to give Bilbo and Frodo some time alone. She continued to converse with the other hobbits.

While she did this, she glanced up to the room that Frodo had been in.
Gandalf was there speaking with Lord Elrond. She did not know that they were talking about many things including her.

*****
"Who is this fair elf that has accompanied Frodo all this way?" Elrond asked Gandalf as they paced together.

"I have learned much about her from Aragorn. He seems to know her more than Frodo even though Frodo has been with her for many months. Aragorn knows her face and name which was something that I didn't know until she uttered it from her own lips," Gandalf replied.

"Gandalf, I am not talking about her name or her face. I want to know of what race of elves she is. She certainly does not come from Rivendell or Lorien. Thranduil has never heard her name before. Could she be of the Morquiendi?"

"Of course not," Gandalf instantly said. "The dark elves would never associate with hobbits. Besides, she fought off a Nazgul all on her own trying to protect the Halflings. I must confess that I do not know what she is or who she is but an angel sent to us. Perhaps she will prove herself in the journey that lies ahead."

"Perhaps. A council is held tomorrow. I wish that she and the hobbit attend," Elrond said.

"She will be there at your request."


Chapter 8 - A Kiss Under the Stars

The day had come! Elenya sat in the courtyard among many others. They were all male but for her. There were five whom she knew Frodo, Strider, Gandalf, Glorfindel, and Elrond of course. She recognized three others, although she didn't know how. She saw a small dwarf with bushy red hair.

It had to be Gimli, of course! She smiled. She saw a man clothed in a royal state and thought: Boromir! The last one she knew was Legolas. He was handsome! He didn't look like Orlando Bloom, but he was very handsome. Maybe even more than Brad Pitt! She noticed something else, too. He was staring at her. His gaze was fixed upon her, and it seemed he could not look away. She didn't have time to think about it then. She tried to ignore him as she took her seat beside Frodo.

The Council began with an introduction to introduce the Hobbit Frodo and tell of the History of the Last Alliance. Then they introduced Boromir. He told the Council of the dream that had come to him and his brother, Faramir. He spoke of the poem, "Seek for the Sword that was Broken. In Imladris, it dwells. There shall be councils taken stronger than Morgul spells. There shall be shown a token that doom is near at hand. Isildur's Bane shall waken and the Halfling forth shall stand."

"Here more shall be made clearer to you," Aragorn said. This was the part she had been waiting for! Aragorn cast the shards of Narsil upon the table to the amazement of Boromir. "Here is the sword that was broken!" Aragorn was revealed!

Boromir doubted Aragorn, but Aragorn forgave him. Frodo then brought forth the Ring and Elrond spoke of Isildur's Bane. Then Aragorn asked Boromir if he wished the sword to be taken to Gondor. Boromir said it would be a great help if the Sword of Elendil were to go to Gondor, but he still doubted the possessor of it. Bilbo then spoke Aragorn's poem.

"All that is gold does not glitter.
Not all those who wander are lost.
The old that is strong does not wither.
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.
From the ashes a fire shall be woken.
A light from the Shadows will spring.
Renewed shall be blade that was broken!
The crownless again will be KING!"

Aragorn forgave Boromir's doubt once again and told him that he was indeed Isildur's Heir. Aragorn would go to Minas Tirith!

Frodo then spoke of the tale of the Ring and the events that had happened to him and his hobbit friends. He included the Elven girl's part as well as the attack on Weathertop, which Legolas was greatly interested in.

They continued to discuss the Ring and whether there it be the Real Ruling Ring and what should be done with it. Gandalf spoke the words of the Mordor tongue that were written upon it. And Legolas spoke of Gollum and his escape from the elves. Gandalf continued on about Saruman and his escape from Orthanc and of his journey to Rivendell. They debated about the Ring and if it should be given to Tom Bombadil.

"What does the she-elf think for she was with him?" Elrond asked.

Elenya replied, "From what I have seen of Tom Bombadil is that he is a noble fellow and quite trustworthy and on our side. But he has no power over the Ring or rather the Ring has no power over him. He nearly regarded it as a magic toy! I mean no disrespect or offense to him, but I believe he would soon forget it if he was its possessor. And if we were to give it to him, it would only postpone the day of evil longer not destroy it."

They turned to Elrond and again debated. They said there were only two things left to do and that was to throw it into the Sea or destroy it. They finally decided it should be destroyed because the Sea is not even safe, and it would be discovered still. Bilbo offered to destroy it but also admitted that he was old to journey. Frodo then spoke up and said those fatal words, "I will take it!"


*****
It had been a long day Emilie thought to herself. She didn't know how long it took for men to debate a problem and form a solution until the Council of Elrond. Now she knew why it took them so long to make up their minds. The Fellowship had been decided and she was included. She was glad and said she would stay with Frodo till the end unless she was separated from him.

The dress, which she wore, flattered her figure very nicely. It was similar to the one she had found herself in the first time but this one exposed more of her back keeping her cooler and would keep her cooler during the hot days of the journey.

The night was warm. She made up her mind to take a walk for she would never have an opportunity like this again. The stars did not shine this brightly in America or her whole world for that matter.

Elenya wandered into the midst of the garden. She kept her face to the sky relishing the stars. She felt like singing but did not wish to wake anyone.
She decided to hum the words to a song and dance. Her curly brown hair waved about in the wind as her bare feet moved to the rhythm of the song. She loved to dance and did it quite often, but this was different. She wasn't dancing in her basement but in Rivendell. She felt like the girl from ‘Tuck Everlasting’ but no others were around. She twirled about not caring how silly she may have appeared. Her dress was loosely fit around the shoulders and was falling, but she cared not. She finally finished and was out of breath, but didn't take her eyes off the beautiful scenery. She pulled the dress up which had been falling further down her shoulders. She was thinner than she knew. She suddenly felt a chill run up her spine when she realized she was not alone.

"Another elf that loves the stars and enjoys dancing as much as I?" she heard a voice behind her say.

Elenya turned around and saw Legolas sitting on a bench with his arms outstretched. A crooked smile was fixed on her face. She faced him indignantly.

"How long have you been there?" she asked.

"Quite awhile. You were oblivious to everything but the sky above you and your feet below you. You are quite a dancer." he said, widening his smile.

"I enjoy it. You are Legolas, are you not??

"Yes, I saw you at the Council of Elrond and heard you speak."

"More like you were staring at me," she added softly looking down at her dress.

"Well, there never has been a lady at the council of Elrond," he answered her.

"I am not a woman. Simply a girl."

"Age does not matter for the elves. I am three thousand years old but still
have a full and endless life ahead of me as do you," he stood up.

He began to move steadily closer to her. What would happen? She had not done much research about Legolas and his past. She just remembered a story of him and a lady named Melia and how he was not unskilled at kissing. She knew from her sister that a male could love more than one woman. But would she love him? All she knew was that he was a male. A very handsome drop dead gorgeous arrogant male.

"Most girls I've known would jump at this chance," he smiled at her beginning to close the distance between them. She could nearly feel his sweet breath upon her face. His body was certainly close.

"I am not one of them. You are too arrogant," she said and began to walk away. Legolas grasped her hand. It was a gentle touch yet firm at the same time. "Let me go!" she objected.

"I do not know your name. What is your name, I beg of you??" He turned to face her and she saw the pleading look in his eyes.

"My name is of no consequence to you this night. You shall hear it soon enough."

"I disagree. If we are to be traveling companions, it will be my duty to protect you."

"I can take care of myself!" Emilie argued, not liking where the situation was going. " It is neither your duty nor anyone's duty!"

"We elves must look out for each other," Legolas said, brushing a hand across her cheek. She flinched as his hand caressed her cheek and continued to trawl down her neck.

"What do you fear?" he asked moving his face toward hers. She was trembling when she felt Legolas grasping her shoulders.

She whispered, "You."

"There's no need."

She couldn't stop him though she tried. Her knees buckled. He caught her in his arms and enveloped her mouth in one soft kiss. She was stunned. There had been other guys she had liked in her own world, but this was the first time she had ever been kissed. She was only sixteen. How could this happen? She already had a boyfriend in America, but he was nothing like Legolas.


Legolas was not inexperienced at kissing at all. He appeared to have had much practice, for he did it very well. She couldn’t let him fall in love with her, but she feared it was too late for that. He wrapped his arms around her waist, which bore no fabric from the dress. She felt his body pressing against her.

"No!" she exclaimed, pushing him back. "Legolas, you can't do this! You don't know what you're doing!?

"I always know what I am doing," he said, taking her hand. This is why she preferred Aragorn's kindness and bravery over Legolas arrogance and recklessness even if he did look better than Brad Pitt. "We are elves are we not?" he asked, running his fingers through her hair.

"Yes."

"Well then. I have never met an elf such as you," he said, taking her shoulders in his grasp again so she couldn't escape.

"How can you know me? We've met for only five minutes!" she reminded him.

He ran a hand across her cheek and down her neck and said, "I know is that I
love you, elf with no name."

Legolas pulled her closer again when she said, "Stop! Please Legolas! You don't know me! You don't know anything!"

He took her face in his hands. She couldn't bear to see his face his eyes that made her melt into him. "I know you enough," he said. " Enough to know that you are an elf and that I’m in love with you."

"You can't be, you just cant!" but inside Elenya felt her heart giving way as he looked into her eyes tearing her fears apart.

"Tis not so impossible. Give in to me! Look at me!" He kissed her again.

Would he take her this night like he had with others in the many stories she had read? No! She had to stop him, but when she felt his lips upon her. She could not think of a single reason why she should stop him. Legolas felt the white jewel of the necklace fixed on her chest. She felt uncomfortable as he pressed against the fabric moving it further down the curve of her arm. He finally ceased kissing her for a moment. She pushed against him and said the first thing that came into her mouth. A line from an old movie, "If there is any honor in you, promise me that you will never to do that again!" He backed away from her and managed a slight bow. He took her hand and kissed it gently. She then walked away. But before she did she uttered a few short words he had longed to hear.

"My name is Elenya."


Chapter 9 - Lessons and the Sunrise

"Do we really have to do this?" Elenya asked, looking at her breeches as she stood in front of Aragorn and Legolas.

"You said you wanted to learn?" Legolas said.

"You couldn't very well fight in that dress," Aragorn smiled.

"Fine."

Legolas, Aragorn, and Elenya stood in the courtyard. She was with her two favorite men. They had agreed to teach her to shoot with a bow and arrow and fight with a sword. Aragorn could shoot, but he was not as experienced with a bow as Legolas, and the elf was unskilled with a sword and usually carried a long dagger. Legolas took the long bow and Elenya focused on him as he pulled the arrow back and let go suddenly. The arrow landed with a perfect bull’s eye on the target, which Gimli was holding. She knew the method, but had never tried it. She fitted an arrow in the bow. Legolas placed a hand on her arm as she slowly pulled back and let the arrow fly. She thought it wouldn't hit the target but it did. It landed right on the edge.

"That was too close!" Gimli shouted. "Aragorn, why don't you hold it? Why should I risk my life??

"Because I am too tall, Master Dwarf."

Elenya let out a short giggle.

"You did well considering you said you have never touched a bow and arrow before," Legolas smiled, taking her hand. "Shall we try again?"

Elenya nodded. Aragorn noticed the slight connection (or bond) between them, but didn't speak. Elenya fitted the arrow in the boy alone this time. She slowly aimed it at the middle of the target and let go. It landed right next to Legolas's. She smiled.

"Very good eyes," he said, looking into hers.

"The doctor said I had twenty fifteen vision," she laughed. Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli looked at her puzzled. "Never mind," she answered.

"We shall continue later with the bow. I do not wish to waste more of Aragorn's time," Legolas said turning to him.

"Oh, I rather enjoy it," he smiled.

"And so do we!"

Elenya turned and saw the hobbits sitting nearby laughing. The men and the elf didn't even notice them. Pippin held an apple in his hand chewing it like a cow when Merry wrenched it from his hand. She laughed, as the two fought over it like birds for seed.

"Shall we?" Aragorn asked, taking Elenya's hand.

"Sure."

Elenya took the sword he had given her. It was quite heavy. She remembered her sister had taken fencing lessons but with more along the lines of a saber. These swords were different, but she grasped it firmly in her hand.

"For the first time, you wish to practice slowly. Attack! Low!"

Elenya and Aragorn clashed their swords together in a low frontal. Then they switched to a high frontal. It was a little harder for her since the sword was heavy, but she succeeded.

"Very good," Aragorn said. "Now try that method faster."

Legolas watched as he leaned across a pillar. Aragorn and Elenya continued quickly. Aragorn and Legolas both could tell that her talent lay with the bow.

"Would you like to stop?" Aragorn asked her.

"If I am going to fight orcs, I will need to learn to handle a sword, for I obviously don't have the quick skill of Legolas," she said turning her face to him.

"You will learn," Legolas told her.

"Come. I will show you another method," Aragorn replied.

Aragorn showed her many more methods and she continued to become more skilled with a sword. She tried many out and finally found one that was easy to handle. She held it up to the light and it glittered.

"I shall name it elen telpe, which I think means silver light," Elenya said.

After all she still was an American girl. She had studied elvish some but not much. Legolas did not comment.

"Well, I believe that I can teach you no more of the way of swords. We've been doing this for quite a while. It is time for your next lesson with a bow," Aragorn said wiping the sweat from his brow.

"Thank you, Estel."

"I will always be here," he smiled. "But I am afraid I must go. Someone I dearly wish to see is here."

Emilie knew who it was. "Please, Aragorn! Go to her! I don't wish to detain you longer," Elenya said feeling guilty and quite honest.

"No, this was a pleasure. But thank you. Till next time, master elf," Aragorn made a slight bow to Legolas.

Elenya watched him leave.

"There are few like him in the world," Legolas said.

"Aye. I dearly love him," Emilie said.

"You do?" he asked surprised folding his arms.

"Yes. Oh, not like that, Legolas," she said quickly. "He is my liege lord. I dearly admire him is what I meant to say."

"Good," he said.

"I thought I once was in love with him," she said softly. "But I am happy for him and the Evenstar. They are truly the most magnificent couple. Even more than Luthien and Beren.. Few shall ever be as happy as they."

"But for us, aye?" he smiled, taking her hand and drawing closer to her.

"Legolas, please. Try to understand. I can't-"

"You love me, do you not? I can see it in your eyes when you look at me."

"I will not tell you," she said.

"We are both elves. Please," he said his face meeting hers.

She could feel his breath upon her face. His lips began to meet hers when she suddenly said, "Are you going to show me to use the crossbow?"

He backed away. "Yes. But we shall finish this later."

"Indeed."

Legolas fitted an arrow in the crossbow. He shot a perfect mark at the dummy Gimli was holding. It landed in the head of the dummy. Legolas handed the crossbow to her. He laid a hand on her arm as she held it. She shrugged it off, earning a frown from him. She let the arrow go. It flew right past Gimli’s arm narrowly missing it and striking the wall.

"Elves!" he said, angrily walking away.

"Sorry about that!" she said. "It was an accident," she said looking at Legolas.

"Let us try again."

*****

Elenya had enjoyed learning about the different ways to fight. Gimli had even shown her to use an axe. She actually did quite well at it but enjoyed the bow and the sword better.

"Foolish elves! The axe is the noblest of weapons," he had said.

She laughed as she remembered it. Elenya looked at herself in the mirror.
She wasn’t used to seeing herself in breeches when she had so long worn dresses. She would start wearing them tomorrow when the Fellowship set out.
She would be very sorrowful tomorrow at having to leave Rivendell.

Elenya slowly peeled off the breaches and changed into the nightwear set out for her. She slowly pulled the white nightdress over her and climbed into the bed. She wondered if tomorrow she would wake up for real in her own room and America. She hoped not. She wanted to find out what would happen next.

*****

She didn't awake in her own bed. She awoke in the same bed but it was still dark out. She heard a tapping sound on her window and a voice coming from it. She crawled out of bed and saw Legolas in the window knocking on it. She went and opened it up.

"What are you doing? Are you mad?" she asked, staring at him.

"No. Come with me."

"What?"

"To see the sunrise. Please? Tis our last day here."

"You’re crazy!"

"Please?"

"Alright. I’ll meet you down in the garden."

Elenya did. She felt she had to since it was the last day. She met him in the garden where she had said. He took her hand and began leading her away from the city.

"Where are we going?" she asked him.

"You'll see."

Legolas led her up a steep cliff from which flowed a waterfall. He helped her climb up and they finally made it to the top. The view was magnificent. She could see the entire city of Rivendell and the forests and waterfalls that surrounded it.

"It's beautiful," she sighed.

"Indeed it is. Are we to finish the conversation?"

"What one?"

"The one in the courtyard."

"No, I do not wish to discuss it."

"You can't avoid it forever," he said taking her hand. "Why can't you love me forever?"

"Because I'll not last forever," she said the first words that spilled off her tongue.

"What do you mean? You are an elf are you not?"

"Yes." But in truth she wasn't. At least not by heart and mind. But Legolas didn't know her mind. He knew her heart obviously from the way he looked straight through her.

"Then there is nothing to fear," he brushed a hand across her cheek.

"But...you wouldn't understand."

"I understand that you're hurting. You're hurting because you want to be with me too."

She struck him on the face. It was the first time she had ever hit any guy. She felt brave enough to do it. He touched his cheek and took her hand again.

"What did I say?"

"You insulted me!" she remembered a line from another movie.

Legolas pulled her to him and met her lips with one firm kiss. He stopped and said, "Now I have insulted you."

"You said you would never do that again!"

"I never said anything of the sort. Back in the garden, I simply ceased, for I could see that you were afraid."

"I'm afraid of nothing. Least of all you!" Emilie said bravely.

"Then look at me," he said, raising her chin and forcing her to meet his eyes. Her mouth opened and shut nervously. He grasped her shoulders and knew she was trembling.

"You are. You do love me don't you?" he asked her.

"I can not say," she whispered.

Legolas kissed her again. She saw the sun rising in the distance as it crept behind the city of Rivendell. She thought that they should go. She still was clothed in the simple white robe and nightdress. Legolas wrapped his arms around her and kissed her still. She braced her hands on his chest and pushed him back.

"We should go."

"Indeed we should. The hour is getting late."

That was the last she spoke to him until the journey of the Fellowship began. That was the last time he confronted her face to face as well, until Moria.


Chapter 10 - The Ring Goes South

This part of the story seemed more like the movie rather than the book. The days seemed to pass like minutes to Emilie. Everything seemed to pass quickly though at times it took very slowly. It seemed Elenya was living out the movie though other times, parts of her adventure were more like the book. She did have to admit the scenery was very beautiful as she trudged along behind Frodo across the green fields and mountains. They finally stopped to rest. Elenya sat eating the food that Sam had cooked for the rest of them. Aragorn sat on a rock nearby watching the sky as did Legolas. Elenya was watching the rather entertaining display of Boromir giving the hobbits a sword fighting lesson. Frodo and Sam were also watching, but Gimli had gone to have a chat with Gandalf.


Elenya watched as Boromir accidentally hit Pippin with the sword. She continued to laugh as the hobbits pinned Boromir to the ground in their angry banter.
Elenya stood up and walked over to Aragorn. She laid a hand on his shoulder.

"What is wrong my friend?" she asked.


"Do you not sense it? Something is coming," Aragorn said tensely.


"I feel it also Aragorn," Legolas added. "Look there in the distance."


"What? I have not the eyes of an elf," Aragorn replied.


Legolas pointed to the sky. Elenya saw what he was staring at. A wisp of black cloud was growing larger and approaching them at great speed. Before Legolas cried out, Elenya yelled, "Crebain from Dunland!"


Aragorn shouted, "HIDE!"

Instantly everyone gathered their things up and hid under anything that could conceal them. Elenya lay down beside Aragorn and Frodo under a large rock. The birds came swiftly and circled around the small area. They circled around and returned the way they had come. Gandalf stood up.


"Spies of Saruman! The passage south has been watched! We must take the pass of Caradhras!"


Elenya faced the snowy mountain. She was dreading this part for she had been so used to the warm weather, but she followed behind Frodo all the way trying to keep up. Legolas was light-footed upon the snow and barely made a footprint. For that transgression, Merry and Pippin were angry at the elf and began throwing snow balls at him.

When Legolas felt one hit his neck, he asked, "What was that for?" He turned to Pippin, who had thrown the snow ball.


"I don't think they appreciate the fact that they're smaller than you but still sink into the snow," Elenya laughed.


"If I am light-footed then I will progress on ahead of people. I do not wish to travel slow and waste my energy," Legolas said proudly.


Suddenly, breaking the silence a crash of thunder was heard over the mountain and a fell voice was heard in the air. An avalanche of rocks fell from the snowy top. Everyone ducked to the side but for Gandalf who pointed his staff toward the sky and yelled out words which the others did not understand. It did not seem to work as another avalanche of snow came down and fell upon everyone. Elenya and Legolas were the first heads to come up out of the snow. Elenya instantly looked for Frodo who was being held up by Aragorn.


"It's Saruman!" Gandalf cried.


"We must get off the mountain and make for the Gap of Rohan!" cried Boromir.


"Gap of Rohan takes us to close to Isengard!" Aragorn objected.


"If we can not go over the mountain, let us go under it!" Gimli suggested. "Let us go through the Mines of Moria!"


Gandalf stood motionless and speechless for a few moments as if in great fear or a trance. He finally spoke, "Let the Ringbearer decide! Frodo?"


Frodo debated internally for some time and finally answered, "We will go through the Mines."


"So be it!"Gandalf replied.


Chapter 11 - The Beginning of Moria

As they approached the walls, Gimli sped up in excitement and awe. Legolas and Elenya followed behind cautiously. Elenya knew that they both were not looking forward to the endless journey in the dark. However, Gimli was.

"The Walls of Moria!" he exclaimed softly.

Sam had to say goodbye to Bill. Elenya saw a tear run down his cheek. He had become very attached to the pony. The gardener sat down beside Frodo on a rock., and Frodo tried to comfort him.

Gandalf approached the gates of Moria. The moon had peeked out from behind a cloud and shone brightly upon them. Elenya approached. The Gates looked beautiful as they shone in the dark.

"It reads 'the Walls of Durin, Lord of Moria. Speak friend and enter!'"

Elenya knew the riddle. She wondered whether she should speak the answer aloud or if she should let Frodo do the honors. She decided to wait. Gandalf tried various incantations and she grew impatient. Patience had never been one of her strong suits. She was about to speak when she saw Boromir throw a stone into the lake. She heard Frodo speak.

"Why did you do that Boromir?" Frodo asked. "I hate this place to and I am afraid. I do not know of what: of wolves or the dark behind the doors but of something else. I am afraid of the pool. Do not disturb it!"

"Frodo is right!" Aragorn agreed.

Elenya saw the water continued to travel in small ripples though the rocks had been thrown several seconds earlier. She heard Frodo speak.

"It's a riddle!"

Thank Goodness! She thought to herself.

"Speak friend and enter! What's the elvish word for friend?" Frodo asked.

"Mellon!" Elenya replied.

Instantly the doors opened. The Fellowship entered into the dark cave slowly.

"Soon, master and mistress elves, you shall enjoy the hospitality of the dwarves! Roaring fires and red meat off the bone. This is the home of my cousin Balin and they call it a mine a mine!" Gimli said aloud to Legolas and Elenya.

"This is no mine!" Boromir spoke. "It's a tomb."

All about them the bones and skeletons of dwarves lay on the ground. There were black arrows of goblins embedded in the bones. Legolas pulled his bow out as did the others with their sword. Suddenly Elenya saw Frodo slip to the ground! Out from the water, a long sinuous tentacle had taken a hold of Frodo's leg! It continued to pull him toward the lake. Sam began slashing at the tentacle with his knife. The tentacle let go but not before twenty others appeared from the water.

"Into the Gateway, quick!" Gandalf cried.

They were just in time for the Watcher in the Water's coiling arms seized the doors on either side. With a shattering echo, they slammed all the light was lost.

"We now have but one choice!" Gandalf spoke. "We must face the long dark of Moria. Be on your guard. There are older and fouler things than orcs in the deep places."

Elenya knew of what he spoke, but the others did not. She was not looking forward to the next part.


Chapter 12 - Balin's Tomb

They had been in the endless dark of Moria for a long time. It had been after nightfall when they had entered. Emilie was losing track of time. All she knew was that she hated the fact that she couldn't see anything. It was pitch black. The only thing that allowed her to press on with the Fellowship was the firm hold of Legolas's hand. He had helped her traverse the paths of Moria. Gandalf did not want to risk too much light. Finally they stopped. There were three tunnels that led to the right, left, and straight ahead.

"I have no memory of this place," Gandalf announced. Gandalf sat down in silence and it seemed as though he was thinking deeply. Everyone took rest.

"I am too weary to decide and I expect you all are as weary as I. We had better halt here for what is left of the night. You know what I mean! In here it is ever dark but outside the late moon is riding westward and the middle night has passed."

Sam kept pouting about Bill and how the wolves might have got him. Emilie did not even listen to the sound of Pippin's stomach growling and his mouth griping of the lack of food in it. All she knew was that she hated the dark. She hated Moria though Gimli didn't understand her. Legolas and Elenya sat together against the wall. They couldn't see anything or where the others took their places. Elenya lay against Legolas's shoulder. She hated the dark so he gave her comfort, for he was the only one who truly understood her great pain, while Gimli seemed somewhat exasperated by her. Legolas wrapped an arm around her shoulder and caressed the soft skin there.

"I used to love the dark. No more," she said wiping a tear away.

"I understand your sorrow. You are an elf who loves the light and the stars even more than life itself. To be away from them and also in this endless black hole is almost death itself!?

"Thank you, Legolas. What a comfort!" She said sarcastically.

"Oh, I apologize. I should not be speaking." Maybe there is some gentleman in him.

"Oh, I don't mind. I know we will be out of it soon. Hopefully."

He turned his face to her. He could not see her face and faintly could see her outline. He could see the silver dress though and touched its fabric.

"I can barely see you." He ran his fingers up and down her arms and moved them to her neck and then to her face.

"What are you doing?" she asked taking one hand that rested on her neck.

"Trying to see you. I am not used to this dark either. I miss your eyes. That was the first thing I loved about you. Their blueness entrapped me."

"Legolas, I..."

"No, I apologize. I shouldn't have said that. But I can't explain it."

He put his hand across her cheeks. She felt him moving closer to her. At this moment she was glad of the dark. No one could see them. He brushed a hand across her cheek moving strands of hair away from her face.

"Can I kiss you?" he asked.

"I..."

She didn't speak. She choked as his lips brushed against hers in a tender kiss.

"I love you."

"Do you truly?"

"Truly."

"That is a problem."

"Why?" he asked, sounding confused.

She didn't finish for Gandalf spoke.

"I have decided upon the left passageway. The air smells not as foul down there. Whenever in doubt always follow your nose," Gandalf told Pippin.

Emilie was glad. She felt uncomfortable around Legolas. She walked to Frodo's side. They followed Gandalf through the left tunnel. They came to the great dwarf city of Dwerendil. Gandalf's light shone on the long stone pillars carved out by the dwarves. It was an amazing site. But as they walked, the Chamber of Mazarbul. Gimli rushed into it quickly for the beam of light which came from it excited him. The others followed.

Inside rested the coffin of Balin. Gimli knelt down beside it and wept for his cousin. Emilie shared his sorrow and nearly cried with him.

"Here lies Balin son of Fundin Lord of Moria," Gandalf said.

"He is dead then. It is as I feared," Frodo spoke.

Gimli continued his lament. But Pippin became intrigued by the well resting near the coffin. He inched toward it as Gandalf picked up a book held by the skeleton of a dwarf. He began to read. Emilie rushed to Pippin's side for she knew what he was going to do and she would be there to prevent it.

"They have taken the Bridge and the second hall," Gandalf read. "We can not get out. We can not get out. Frar and Loni and Nali have fallen. The Watcher in the Water took Oin. We can not get out. The end comes. Drums, drums in the deep. We can not get out. They are coming!"

Emilie was too late to stop it for she was caught up in listening to Gandalf's reading. Pippin touched the skeleton resting on the wall. The helmet fell into the wall. Plunk! It fell into the wall and seemed to echo through the whole of Moria. Emilie stopped the rest of the skeleton from falling, but the helmet was enough. The echoes finally ceased. Pippin began to blush and felt angry with him. Gandalf closed the book with a thud.

"Fool of a Took!" he scolded. "Next time throw yourself in and rid us of your stupidity!"

Elenya laid a hand on Pippin's shoulder. Poor Hobbit. He was just curious.

Suddenly the drums were heard! They became louder and faster. It was as if huge hands were turning the very caverns of Moria into a large drum. There came an echoing blast: a great horn was blown in the hall and harsh cries were heard further off.

"They are coming!" Elenya cried.


Chapter 13 - Gandalf's Fall

Emilie knew orcs were coming. She saw Frodo's sword as it gleamed brighter and brighter blue as they drew near. They kept the east door open, but Boromir and Aragorn barred the first one from which they had entered. She began to get frightened. She knew she would now have to use her sword. She wondered if they would be fighting the cave troll as in the movie or simply orcs as in the book.

"They have a Cave Troll," Boromir said aloud.

I was hoping, she thought to herself.

Aragorn and Legolas both fixed arrows in their bows as the orcs began to break down the doors. Elenya stayed close to Aragorn and fixed her cross bow as well. The slight form of an orc could be seen through the doorway. It screamed out in pain as Legolas found its mark. They broke through! She could see their hideous faces. It was the first time she had ever seen an orc. She knew orcs hated elves and carried of the women. She began firing her arrows at random finding her targets all around. Aragorn pulled The Flame of the West out. He was a skilled swords man, but Legolas continued his fight with the bow and sometimes with his dagger. The hobbits were doing quite well even Sam who was using a frying pan knocking his victims unconscious. Elenya put her crossbow away and pulled out the sword Aragorn had given her. She then cried out in pain as she felt a knife breaking into her elbow. She turned around and met the distorted face of an orc who had shoved the knife into her skin. An arrow suddenly maneuvered into his head knocking him to the ground lifeless. She thanked Legolas as he rushed to her.

"You're hurt," he said touching her bleeding shoulder.

"I'll be fine going! Frodo needs help!" she said eyeing the hobbit as he tried to fight a rather large orc.

Suddenly the moment she had been hoping against came. He entered. He was as tall as a mountain and broke down the doors as easily as if they were straw.
Legolas immediately fastened two arrows in his bow and met with success. The Cave Troll became angry and started lashing out. Elenya fired her cross bow at the foul being and met with his shoulder. He felt the wound as if it were no more than a prick. Sam stood just beneath him.

"Sam, get out of the way!" Elenya shouted as the Cave Troll lowered his mace toward the hobbit.

Sam slid under him easily and managed to not hurt himself. The battle raged on with what seemed as hours to Elenya. She fought orc after orc. She saw Legolas, Aragorn, and Gimli ferociously fighting the Cave Troll. Then the moment came she didn't want to see. The hobbits were separated Frodo being alone. He slid around the pole trying to avoid the Cave Troll's grasp. She watched as the two played a dangerous game of hide and seeks. She wanted to help her friend but didn't know how. The Cave Troll found him and pulled him by his feet as if he were a careless rabbit. Frodo dropped his sword to the ground. But all of a sudden, Emilie saw Aragorn pop out of nowhere maneuvering a large stick into the belly of the Cave Troll. She admired his bravery but watched as the Cave Troll flung his hand at Aragorn in a cruel punch. Aragorn lay on the ground motionless as Frodo tried to rouse him.

The Cave Troll grabbed the stick all the meanwhile Frodo trying to escape. She then heard the scream as he met above Frodo's left breast. She immediately fastened arrows in her bow and kept firing whether or not it hit the Cave Troll or not. The hobbits, upon hearing Frodo's scream, jumped onto his back working at his head with their swords screaming fiercely for injuring their best friend. With one effort, he flung them aside as if they were rocks. God bless you, Legolas Emilie thought to herself as his arrow met its mark inside her mouth. With Pippin still upon his head, the Cave Troll fell lifeless to the ground. Elenya rushed to Frodo. Aragorn had already made it to his side.

"Is he alive?" Sam asked.

"I'm not hurt," Frodo said sitting up.

Aragorn seemed in amazement, "I thought you were dead!"

Frodo opened his shirt revealing the mithril coat. Gimli knew very well what it was from being a miner dwarf. Elenya could hear the foul screams of the orcs in the background.

"I think there's more to this hobbit than meets the eye!" Gandalf said. He then heard the orcs in the distance. "To the Bridge of Khazadum!"

Emilie was dreading this next part but knew it had to be. She ran swiftly with the others, but could see the orcs and goblins following behind them. They seemed to creep out of the ground the ceilings as if they were ants. They surrounded them. She wondered if they were going to be the next meal. Gimli waved his axe bravely as Gandalf's light shone. Then she heard it. The ferocious growl of the Balrog. Legolas held up his arrow and then dropped it for he knew he would be no match.

"Ai!" he shouted cowering for he knew what it was. "A Balrog! Durin's Bane!" he said lamenting.

"RUN!!" Gandalf ordered.

They did. Even swifter than before. The orcs had crept back to their hiding places. They too were afraid of this foul demon. She knew they were going the wrong way. Then Boromir nearly fell into the great abyss if Aragorn had not have caught him. They were on the wrong side!

"Lead them on, Aragorn. The bridge is near," she overheard Gandalf say. "Do as I say! Swords are no more use here!"

They rushed to the bridge with vigor knowing what would come out of the Shadows soon. Gimli led the way over the bridge and Legolas followed after Elenya. The bridge was narrow, and she could see the deep abyss. She made it to the other side, but looked back. Gandalf stood in the middle of the bridge. HERE IT COMES!!!!

He appeared. Emilie shrouded her face for she did not wish to see it. She could nearly feel the flames herself as if it were her standing on the bridge. The saw its fiery whip coming into contact with Gandalf's light. It's whip's thongs cracked and fire came out of its nostrils as it stepped onto the bridge. Gandalf fought it with his staff.

"You cannot pass! I am the Servant of the Secret Fire Wielder of the Flame of Arnor. The dark fire will not avail you Flame of Udun. Go back to the Shadow! YOU SHALL NOT PASS!!!"

The fire seemed to die but not for long as it spread its black wings out and stepped toward Gandalf.

Aragorn suddenly leaped onto the bridge and cried, "Elendil! I am with you, Gandalf!"

"Gondor!" cried Boromir after him.

Gandalf then smote the bridge with his staff; the staff broke in the bridge and fell from Gandalf's hand. Right at the Balrog's feet, the bridge broke. It seemed to be over as he fell into the deep abyss. But with a crack or his whip tied around Gandalf's feet, the wizard fell. He grasped vainly at the stone and then said, "Fly from me you fools!"

Then he was gone! A GREAT LIGHT HAD GONE OUT!!!
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Printed from Open Scrolls Archive (https://www.openscrolls.net) on Sat Nov 14, 2026 8:23 pm