Where Am I?
This story takes place a short while before the War of the Ring. Sauron is gathering his armies and preparing for an assault on Middle- Earth. He is currently fighting for Osgiliath. Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry, are preparing to leave Hobbiton and head to Bree. Elves, Men, and Dwarves are preparing for the onslaught of Sauron and his armies.
Five young characters, from the present year of 2003, have ended up in Middle-Earth without knowing how they got there. They all have read, and know what happens in Lord of the Rings. Can they change anything? Could they save anyone? Could they stop evil things from happening? Will new perils and problems befall them? How will their presence affect the outcome of the war? Will it change drastically or will it only change a little? Let's find out what changes they will make in Middle-Earth. And the story begins...
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A young youth, at the age of 15, opened his eyes to see a clear blue sky above him. What...I was just playing man-hunt at the church. He had dark brown hair, with blue eyes. He was 5"5, athletic, and good looking (hey, I'm not going to call myself ugly). He was wearing blue jeans with a white t-shirt, and had black and white sneakers on.
He looked around behind him and saw the biggest mountain range he'd ever seen. Far off into the distance was a forest. The grass underneath him was green, and off to the left of him he could make out a great river, the Andiun.
A girl, around the age of 14, lay not too far from him. He got up and walked over to her. She had dark brown hair that reached down to her shoulders and had dark brown eyes that never failed to capture him. She was taller than him at 5"6. She had blue jeans on. She was wearing a sweater with a green shirt underneath. She had white sneakers on as well. As he looked down he thought she was pretty, of course, he always thought she was pretty.
He bent down and shook her gently, "Hey, Jordan, wake up. Jordan...wake up."
"Wha-...Aaron," Jordan sat up and looked around, "Where are we," she asked groggily.
"I have no clue where we are," he said, "the last thing I remember is falling down the hill and crashing into you."
"Yeah, and I hit my head on a rock," she lifted her hand to the back of her head and winced.
"Are you alright," Aaron looked concerned.
"Yeah, it'll be fine. Just a little tender," Jordan sat there for a while trying to wake up, "Where do you think we are?" she asked.
"I don't know. I don't think I've ever been here before," Aaron looked around.
Jordan stood up and stretched, "Well, let's go find out where we are."
"Well, where do you suggest we go? The forest or the mountains," he pointed in both directions.
"The forest. There are likely more people there, and it could give us cover from bad weather...although I don't think it's gonna be raining anytime soon," Jordan looked up at the sky as a black bird flew across it.
"Alright. Let's go."
They set off toward the forest at a comfortable walk. The sky was clear except for the few white clouds that dotted the sky. The sun shown brightly, and was high overhead. A breeze picked up and cooled them off. As they neared the forest they started to talk again, "I wonder where we are," Aaron broke the silence.
Jordan smiled, "Maybe we're in Middle-Earth.
"Yeah, and that's Mirkwood or Lothlorien," he laughed.
As they were talking they came upon the forest and entered. The air was cool and smelled sweet. The forest floor was covered with golden leaves. The trees were full of green leaves and the bark on the trees was smooth and gray.
Aaron looked around, "Maybe we are in Lothlorien."
They walked on for a while and gazed and stared at the trees in wonder. They came to a little stream, stopped and took a drink. Aaron bent down and splashed Jordan in the face, "Hey," she laughed and splashed him back, "You do that again and I'll throw you in and not think twice about it," she warned him.
They walked over to a nearby tree and sat down for a rest. After a while they resumed their walk. They followed the stream for a couple of minutes.
"Halt," a man stepped out from the trees, with more people behind him. He was holding a bow with an arrow aimed strait at them. He had long blonde hair past his shoulders, and had brown eyes. He was taller than both of them. Aaron noticed he had pointed ears. He's an...Elf!!! He was wearing a brown tunic and breeches, with soft brown leather boots. His cloak was light brown and seemed to shimmer when he moved in the sun.
"You're an elf!!!" They said in unison. Jordan fainted and Aaron caught her before she hit the ground. He laid her on the ground and looked back at the elf.
"I'm Halidir," said the elf.
"You're Halidir?" Aaron said breathlessly. He stood there staring at the elf with his mouth open.
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Where am I? An eighteen year old, with blonde hair and blue eyes, stood strait up and examined his surroundings. He was tall and built. He had jean shorts on that came past his knees, with a dark green shirt that had a black cross on the front.
He was standing in a dense forest with tall wide trees all around him. The air was thick, which made it hard to breath. The place felt old, and smelt like moss. "This isn't my room," he muttered to himself.
He started to walk, trying to figure out where he was. He broke off a long branch from one of the trees. The trees started to groan and creek in a way. It felt almost like the trees were angry. How could I have ended up here? I thought I just fell asleep in my room. Unless this is a dream and I'm not waking up...maybe I'm in another world. What am I thinking...but there is no other way to explain it. God, help me.
He thought something moved to the right of him, what was that. He looked in the direction of the movement. All he saw was a black bird sitting on a high branch. That's odd he thought. As he was looking he tripped on a rock and started to fall. He rolled down a steep, small hill, end over end, and landed with a thud.
He looked up and saw three gangly looking creatures not to far from him. They had gray skin and stood a little hunched. They stood there talking amongst themselves until they heard him fall. They turned around and looked strait at him and he knew what they were as soon as they did. Orcs!!! They can't be...but they're standing right in front of me. Could I be in Middle-Earth? I can't be he thought franticly. The orcs started to walk toward him as he stood up. He backed away from them hurriedly, and they quickened their pace. "Well, what do we have here," said the nearest orc.
They all laughed as they kept on coming at him, "Dinner," said another.
"Men's flesh," said one as he unsheathed his dagger. The orc charged with his dagger in hand, murder in his eyes. Andrew turned to run, but tripped over a root which sent him rolling. He looked up as an arrow pierced the oncoming orc in the eye. The orc tried to scream, but all that came out was black blood, and fell down dead. The other two orcs looked startled but quickly regained their composure. They charged, one heading in the direction the arrow flew from and the other strait at him. He heard something hit the ground beside him. There on the ground was a long silver sword. He had no time to think. He grabbed the sword and stood up to meet the charging orc. He met the orcs blow and the orc snarled. I'm fighting an Orc! He thought as he repeatedly blocked the orcs thrusts. While fighting the orc he heard a shrill scream. The remaining orc turned to look in the direction of his fallen comrade's scream. Now! He wasted no time. He advanced to attack the orc furiously. The orc desperately tried to meet the blows and stand his ground but was pushed back. Finally he swung with all of his might and sent the orcs' sword flying. Then without knowing what he was doing he spun in a circle and sliced. Black blood squirted everywhere as the orcs' head fell to the ground and the body lay limp against a tree.
The young man stood there with sweat rolling down his face. He looked at the dead orcs' body, almost emptying his stomach, and at the hideous head lying a few feet from the body it was just attached to. He started to regain his breath and sat down with his back against a tree. "Well done," came a mans voice as he stepped into view.
The man had black hair, with some gray in it, that came a little past his shoulders. His eyes were blue-green. He was tall and looked muscular. He had a short, scruffy beard with a mustache. Other than the gray in his hair he looked like he was in his mid thirty's. He stood there holding his bow in hand with a leather glove on his right hand. A leather vest was over top of chain mail. He had black, leather breeches on, and leather boots caked with mud. He was wearing his quiver on his back, full of arrows. A dagger was hanging from his belt in its sheath.
The young man stood strait up still holding the sword, "Who are you?" he asked.
"My name is Ardenel. I'm a ranger of the north. It was me who killed that orc," he nodded toward the orc with an arrow through the eye, "and the other over there," he pointed in the direction the scream came.
The young man relaxed and lowered the sword, "Thank you. I'd probably be dead if it wasn't for you."
"Probably. You handled yourself pretty well in that fight. Have you ever used a sword in combat before?" asked Ardenel.
"No. I've never had to use one before," he glanced down at the dead orcs' body and the sword in his hands.
"Then it seems that I'll have to teach you how to use that," Ardenel nodded toward the sword, "You know my name. Would you care to tell me yours?"
"I'm Andrew," he said.
"Well met, my friend," Ardenel stuck out his hand toward Andrew.
Andrew shook it firmly, "Uhhh...where are we?"
Ardenel looked confused, "We're in Fangorn Forest," he said, "are you lost?"
"Fangorn Forest," Andrew choked on the name.
"Where are you from?" asked Ardenel.
I am in Middle-Earth. And not just anywhere in Middle-Earth...Fangorn Forest!!! When I was reading Lord of the Rings, I never thought I'd actually be there. How did I get here though? Well, that can wait. What am I going to tell this man...I'm from another world and a country called America? I could tell him I'm lost. Yeah, that's it. I am aren't I? Now that I know where I am, I'm not. Rohan shouldn't be too far from here. I could meet Aragorn if I'm in the right time period. I wonder if the ring has been destroyed or if Frodo is carrying it into Mordor right now? I wond...
"Hey, are you lost," Ardenel asked again.
"Uhhh...yeah...well, not really. So I'm in Fangorn Forest. Thank you. I know where I am now," Andrew stumbled over his words.
"Your welcome. The sun is going down, and I'll be making camp soon. If you'd like to camp with me I have an extra bed roll."
"Thank you. I think I will," said Andrew, "and if you meant what you said about teaching me how to use this...I'd like to learn," he gripped the sword and swung it through the air.
"I'm traveling to Rohan," Ardenel pointed south, "I'll teach you enough to defend yourself, and survive in battle."
"If we're going to make camp...can we make camp away from them?" he gestured toward the dead orcs in front of them.
Ardenel laughed, "I think we should. Let's go."
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A black, violet bird, which could only be a raven, flew over the plains of Rohan. It noticed two black spots lying on the ground below it. It wheeled around and did a nose dive toward the spots to examine them closer. After getting a closer look at the spots it turned west and left to report what it had seen to its master.
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Two teenagers, a boy and a girl, stood on the plains of Rohan breathing loudly. They stood there watching the raven as it turned and flew to the west. After regaining their breath they started to talk again.
The 16 year old girl sat back down. She had long black hair and brown eyes. She was tall, with broad shoulders. She was very good looking. She sat there wearing a blue shirt with blue sweats, and white sneakers. "Did you see that?" she asked looking up at the boy beside her.
The boy looked to be 17. He stood there watching as the raven turned into a black spec and vanished. It was warm out and the boy stood there sweating. He wiped his forehead with the back of his hand, and then wiped his hands on his jeans, and his yellow shirt. He was taller than the girl, but not by much. He had short brown hair, and light brown eyes. He was somewhat gangly but still looked muscular from working long hours on his farm. "Yeah, I saw that. It dove right at us. I thought it was attacking us or something. To bad I didn't have my twenty-two with me. That thing would be dead right now," he sat down beside the girl.
"Of course it would, Eric," she laughed, "Alright, forget about the bird. How do you think we got here? I've been thinking, but can't think of a logical explanation."
Eric sat there in thought, "I don't know either, Ashton. We couldn't have been picked up out of our beds, and carried here without knowing about it...unless we were both drugged, but then I don't see why someone would drug us and bring us out here, wherever here is."
They were sitting on a plain in Rohan and didn't even know it. There were golden rolling hills as far as the eye could see all around them. Other than a few big boulders there was no change in scenery. The sky was clear, without a cloud in the sky. The sun started to get warmer and they both started to sweat.
They sat there thinking of ideas of how they got there, and what they should do now. As they were talking Ashton saw a flash in the distance, "What was that?" she pointed behind Eric.
Eric looked behind him as the forms got closer, "I think they're horses, and there's men riding on them."
Ashton got up and started to head in the horse's direction, "C'mon, let's go find out where we are," she said to Eric.
Eric and Ashton walked over the hills and around the boulders to where the horsemen were standing. One of the riders saw them coming and yelled to the others. The men started forward heading in their direction. There were about two-hundred riders in all. One of the riders carried a green banner, with a white horse in the middle. He held the banner up proudly. That's...that's... "That's the banner of Rohan," gasped Ashton.
"Are you sure?" asked Eric, "How could we be in Rohan?"
"I don't know. But I do know that that is the banner of Rohan. See its green, with a white horse in the middle of it."
The riders were swift and surrounded them quickly. Ashton and Eric stood in the middle of the circle looking strait at long pointed spears. Now I know how Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas felt thought Eric. Some of the riders held bows, with arrows ready to loose any second, pointed straight at them, while the others held a spear. "What business brings you to Rohan?" asked a tall man in front of them.
Eric started, "Nothing sir...
But Ashton cut him off, "You see, we're lost. We stumbled onto your land by accident." I hope that will be enough of an answer. She noticed that the tall man had a white horse tail attached to the back of his helm. That's Eomer!!!
"I'm talking to Eomer," she said in a whisper to herself.
Murmurs started to rise up among the riders around them. Eomer looked stunned, "How do you know my name?" he asked.
Eric eyed her from where he stood, "I said we're homeless. Both of our parents were killed by orcs. We are the only two that escaped from our village alive. We've traveled a long way from lands beyond Mordor. We're both hungry and thirsty. Do you have any water you would be willing to spare?" What? We're homeless!!! That was stupid she thought.
"You're homeless?" Eomer eyed them questioningly, "I have no knowledge of lands beyond Mordor except for the Easterlings. Are you Easterlings?" he reached down and handed them his leather water bottle.
Both Ashton, and Eric took a drank then gave the bottle back to Eomer, "Thank you. We are not Easterlings. We come from a land called America. We are not your enemies. We are against Sauron," said Ashton.
"I have never heard of a land called America. We are not at open war with Sauron but we do not give tribute to that accursed land," said Eomer looking down at them with hard eyes, "I would like to hear more about this land called America. We're going to Edoras. I'm inviting you to accompany us. Or you could head north and out of our lands. The decision is yours."
Ashton stood there stunned at what she had just heard but regained her composure, "Thank you for your hospitality," said Ashton as she looked over at Eric with a smile on her face, "We'll gladly come."
"Good. You will stay in the Golden Hall," said Eomer, "Before we go on any further, I'd like to know your names."
"I'm Ashton, and this is Eric," she introduced them both, "And what is yours, if I may ask?"
"I am Eomer, son of Eomund. Third Marshal of the Riddermark," Eomer said as he straightened in his saddle.
"Well, Eomer son Eomund, we thank you again for your hospitality," Ashton slightly bowed.
Eomer nodded, "Give these two a horse so we may arrive at Edoras before nightfall."
A brown mare was brought to them. Eric mounted up first followed by Ashton behind him. "Let's ride," yelled Eomer and the horsemen moved as one south across the plains toward Edoras and the Golden Hall. They rode behind Eomer for most of the ride.
At one point when they were riding Eomer called for them and they rode forward, "I am glad you chose to ride with us. Eric, you look like you would do well in battle. Do you think you would like to become a Rider of the Mark?"
"I don't know. I've never used a sword before. I would if I learned how to use a weapon," Eric swallowed. He thinks I could become a rider of the Mark. That would be cool. I wonder what Aaron would say. Probably something like: "Why would you want to become a rider of the Mark when you could become a soldier of Gondor and fight beside Aragorn?" He laughed to himself silently.
"If you do want to become a rider then I will make sure you learn, and learn well. You would also learn to use a spear and bow," Eomer said, "Are you willing to learn."
"Yes, I'm willing."
"Then tomorrow you will begin training. I will send someone to wake you in the morning," he turned to Ashton, "My sister, Eowyn, will be glad to have another woman to keep her company. She is always with the king in these days of late. I'm sure she would teach you to use a bow and wield a sword."
"I would like that," said Ashton as she smiled knowing who Eowyn was.
After that Eomer became quiet and they fell behind him again. Finally at sunset they reached Edoras. The Golden Hall was at the top of the hill shining bright even as the sun set.
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The raven flew west until it came into view of its master's domain, Isengard. Isengard was now a barren, gray land. Sarumans orcs tore down all of the trees, and destroyed everything living, and green. As the raven flew high overhead, it could see orcs scurrying on the ground, as well as the orcs in the fiery pits making weapons of war.
The tower of Orthanc was set in the middle of Sarumans fortress. It looked like a black spike jutting out of the earth toward the sky. The surface was smooth, hard, and insuperable. The Numanoreans built Orthanc long ago in their splendor, but now Saruman has claimed it as his own, and has allied himself with Barad-dur and the Dark Lord Sauron.
The raven sped down into one of the caverns, and looked for its master. Once it found him it reported what it had seen and left.
Saruman stood there gripping his staff, and looking out into the caverns. He watched as his orcs fueled the fires of Orthanc, and made weapons for his newly created Uruk-hai. So, there are five new children in Middle-Earth. Two in Lothlorien and three in Rohan. I cannot dismiss the feeling that they are a threat to my Lord, and myself. They are just children. What could they possibly do to hinder our plans? They remind me of those halflings Gandalf holds dear.
"My army will destroy the shire and kill all the halflings that live there!" he raged. No matter. I will assemble two companies of Uruk-hai, and send them to Lothlorien and Rohan to kill these five children. I will see how superior my creations are compared to Saurons miserable slaves.
He summoned an orc, and gave the command to assemble two small companies of Uruk-hai.
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Aaron stood there for a moment just looking at Haldir.
"What brings you to the Golden Woods?" asked Haldir.
"Umm...we didn't know these were the woods of Lothlorien. If you want us to leave we will," Aaron said searching for the right words to say and trying to sound respectful at the same time.
"You have already entered the Golden Woods. You cannot go back," said Haldir, "You will now be blindfolded and taken to Caras Galadon."
Aaron couldn't read the demeanor of elves. Were they being friendly or were they angry with him and Jordan? Jordan regained consciousness. They were both blindfolded, and before they knew it they were being led through the paths of Lothlorien. Even being blindfolded, they were elated to be in the Golden Wood. The branches and leaves swaying in the wind sounded beautiful. Even as that thought came to them, they heard an elf's voice rise up and sing. The song was beautiful to listen to, even though they couldn't understand what he was singing. The elf's voice faded and they walked in silence once more.
After hours of walking their blindfolds were taken off and they stood there in awe of what they saw. They were looking at buildings that were built in the trees. The branches and trunks went straight through the buildings climbing ever higher. The buildings themselves were breath taking. Many of them were white, silver and green, and they all had golden rooftops. They saw elves walking, talking and singing amongst themselves. They were wearing clothes of white, and silver. To Jordan and Aaron they seemed to glow and shine as they walked.
"Everything here is beautiful, and so peaceful," said Jordan staring at the city.
"Thank you," said Haldir, "We are a peaceful people, although I do not think it will be peaceful for long."
"Why is that?" asked Jordan.
"Sauron has made war on Middle-Earth," said Haldir sadly as they made their way to a silver building at the top of the stairs, "and I fear his arm will stretch to Lothlorien soon. We have word that he has already taken Osgiliath in Gondor. Saruman, once friend and ally of Rohan, has betrayed them and allied himself with the Dark Lord. He has bred a new form of orc he calls 'Uruk-hai'." They stand upright and can endure the sun unlike the orcs of Saurons. We have seen them a little ways off of our borders. They are disgusting creatures," as he finished they were entering the building.
"Well that doesn't sound good," she said. Now I know what age we're in she thought.
"Indeed, it doesn't. I fear Middle-Earth is about to face it's darkest days," he looked up as if talking to himself, "And I wonder if we will aid the Men of Middle-Earth against this threat, and die beside them," he looked around and noticed where he was, "I am sorry. This is where you will be staying until Lord Celeborn, and Lady Galadriel summon you. I apologize for our harsh actions, confining you to this building, but we are cautious with strangers as of late. In earlier days we would have welcomed you warmly and with a joyful heart, and let you wander around the city freely."
"It's fine. We understand," Aaron said disappointedly because of not being able to see the city, "These are troubled times."
"Will we be able to wander around, and talk with the elves?" asked Jordan hopefully.
"If the Lord and Lady permit it. Once word gets out that you are here others will come and visit with you," said Haldir as he made his way to the door, "Farewell."
"Well, we're in Lothlorien and we can't even leave this building," Jordan said sounding down.
"I know. It sucks, doesn't it," said Aaron as Jordan glared at him for using that word (Jordan doesn't like it when people say "sucks" for some odd reason).
The room they were in was dimly lit with what seemed to be silver light. There were two large beds in the room, along with an intricately carved table, with two silver wooden chairs. On the table sat a bowl with different kinds of fruit in it. Beside the bowl sat a pitcher of water and silver cups. The scent of bread, cheese, and butter filled the air, and they noticed their stomachs were growling.
They sat down at the table and ate dinner. After eating their fill they sat in silence for a while relaxing from their long walk in the forest. They heard an elf outside talking with the two guards that were stationed at the door. After conversation stopped outside, a female elf walked in. She had long golden hair, like most elves, and was as tall as Haldir. She was in a long flowing white gown with silver slippers underneath. She had blue eyes, and was the most beautiful being Aaron or Jordan had ever seen.
"Welcome to Lothlorien," she said as she sat down joining them at the table, "I'm Silke, of the Golden Wood. Do you like it here?"
Aaron spoke up, "Yes, we love it here. We just wish we could see more of your land," he extended his hand toward her, "Nice to meet you Silke."
She took his hand and shook it as she laughed, "And nice to meet you...," Aaron gave her their names, "Aaron and Jordan."
Jordan and Aaron sat there talking to Silke long into the night. They talked about where they were from, not going into great detail, and she in turn told them about her land and places she has traveled. They got on the subject of weapons and Silke asked them if they knew how to use a sword or bow. They told her they didn't so she offered to teach them once they were free and able to go into the city. Silke got up and said farewell, "Alas, it is late and I must leave you so you may get your rest. I see us becoming friends and wish to spend time with you while you're here. There is also a question I would ask you but I cannot tonight."
"We have time. You can ask us now," said Jordan looking a little tired.
"No. You need your rest. I will talk to the Lord and Lady about it. It is a long matter and it will take time to discuss. Tomorrow we may talk more. Good night and farewell," and with that Silke was out the door without making a sound.
"I wonder what the question is," said Jordan.
"So do I, but it can wait until morning, because I'm tired," Aaron kicked off his sneakers and got in bed.
"I hope she meant what she said about becoming friends," Jordan climbed in the opposite bed from Aaron's, "She was really nice."
"She was cool. I can't wait to talk to her tomorrow," Aaron yawned, "Goodnight."
"Goodnight," said Jordan, and after that they were both asleep.
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After the small skirmish with the orcs, Andrew and Ardenel headed south toward Edoras. They walked until the sun was setting. They stopped, made camp, and sat around the fire. The camp was at the border of the forest. It was hard to see through the darkness, and the shadows the trees cast.
"It's hard to see into the forest," said Andrew peering into the darkness.
"It is always this dark at night. They say that trees are alive in there. They call the creatures 'Ents'," Ardenel chuckled as he stood up, "Get up. You're going to have your first lesson with a sword tonight."
"Now? It's late and I'm tired. I worked today," said Andrew tiredly, "Couldn't we do it tomorrow?"
"If you're fighting for your life it doesn't matter whether it's night or day, or if you're dressed or in your bed clothes," said Ardenel as he picked up a long stick, "Now get the sword and come over here."
Andrew got the sword and walked over to him, "Now what?"
"Now I want you to attack me like you did the orc, just slower and then we'll get faster," Ardenel smiled, "Just don't use the finishing move you used on the orc."
Andrew laughed at that, "I won't," and they started the lesson.
Ardenel showed him the basics: how to place his feet, how to attack, and how to defend. The lesson got a little tougher as it got faster and Ardenel complimented Andrew on his skills. They were working for an hour and called it a night. Andrew sat down sweating, regaining his breath.
"You are a natural swordsman," said Ardenel as he got into his bedroll, "With practice you'll be a fine swordsman."
"Thanks," said Andrew.
In the morning they geared up and broke camp. They set off early and didn't stop until late into the night. When they stopped Andrew was dead tired but Ardenel still made him take his lessons. They repeated the same thing for two more nights and finally on the third dusk, as the sun was setting, they came into view of Edoras.
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Eric and Ashton sat in a large elaborate room. A bed was set underneath a large square window with blankets made out of furs from wild beasts. Horses were everywhere. They were carved into the bed, the table in the middle of the room, and the chairs around the table.
"Well, we're at Edoras. Look at this room. It's bigger than my room back home," said Ashton as she cut a piece of bread, put butter on it, and ate it.
"It's bigger than mine too," said Eric, "I still can't believe it. We've met King Theoden, Eomer, and even Theodred, the kings' son. I thought Theodred died in the book?"
"He did in The Two Towers. It must be before then," Ashton looked out the window then suddenly looked at Eric, "I wonder if we could change anything? We could change so much! We could save Boromir. We could keep the Fellowship together if we went with them. We could even save Haldir...well no because he wasn't at Helms Deep in the book, was he?"
Eric sat there listening, "Yeah, we could save Borimir, but Haldir...I don't know. To bad Aaron or Dave aren't here, they know everything that happened in the book."
"I know it would be nice to have them here," she started to say but was interrupted by Eric.
"Ashton," said Eric cutting her off.
"What?" asked Ashton a little annoyed at being interrupted.
"If we do save Boromir and somehow keep the Fellowship together, would the ring still be destroyed? If we change something, we don't know what kind of affect it will have on the outcome of the war."
"We'll just have to be careful then," said Ashton. She saw something in Eric's eye and got closer to look. The door opened and in stepped the king's niece, Eowyn.
She smiled, "Am I interrupting anything?"
They quickly backed away from each other looking embarrassed, "No...uhhh...she was just getting something out of my eye," said Eric with Eowyn looking at him disbelieving, "Honest."
"You must be Eric and Ashton," said Eowyn.
"Yes," said Ashton with a reddened face.
"I am Eowyn, daughter of Eomund. I've come to see you to your room," she said to Ashton then spoke to Eric, "I understand you are going to become a Rider of the Mark?"
"Yes, I am. I was told I start training tomorrow," he said.
"If you start tomorrow then you will need your rest. It is not easy training," she said motioning to Ashton, "Come and I will show you to your room."
"Goodnight," Ashton said to Eric as she walked out of the room with Eowyn into the hall.
They walked out leaving Eric standing there. Well, that was interesting. Could Ashton be right? We could save Boromir. I'll find out tomorrow if it's before the War of the Ring or not. I should have read the books more than once so I would know a lot more about this place and all the other places out there in Middle-Earth. Of course I didn't know that I would actually be here at Edoras in Rohan or anywhere in Middle-Earth for that matter. He stripped down to his shorts and got in bed. I wonder how early they'll wake me? The training is hard, huh? Well, don't think it'll be as hard as the day me and dad had to bale one thousand bales of hay. After that thought he fell asleep.
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Eowyn led Ashton out of Eric's room and through halls to a door as big as Eric's. Eowyn opened the door and walked in. The room was just as big as Eric's. The only thing different were green curtains for the two windows facing the city. "This is where you'll be staying permanently unless you choose to travel elsewhere. You can do what you want with the room, it's yours," said Eowyn.
Permanantly? Not saying that's bad but...I can't believe they would just give me a room just like that. "Thank you," said Ashton.
"Your welcome. It will be nice to have another woman to talk to besides all these men," Eowyn smiled, "Tomorrow if you would like I will show you around and outside the city. I hear you wish to learn how to wield a sword and shoot a bow."
"Yes, I would like to learn," said Ashton stunned forgetting what Eomer said for a moment.
"It is a joy to see another woman eager to learn how to use weapons. I will start teaching you tomorrow after I show you the city. We will practice in the training yard and show those men that they are not the only sex that can fight," she got up and stood at the door, "I have kept you long enough. Farewell."
"Goodnight," said Ashton as Eowyn left.
Tomorrow should be interesting she thought as she climbed into bed exhausted, and fell asleep.
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This story takes place a short while before the War of the Ring. Sauron is gathering his armies and preparing for an assault on Middle- Earth. He is currently fighting for Osgiliath. Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry, are preparing to leave Hobbiton and head to Bree. Elves, Men, and Dwarves are preparing for the onslaught of Sauron and his armies.
Five young characters, from the present year of 2003, have ended up in Middle-Earth without knowing how they got there. They all have read, and know what happens in Lord of the Rings. Can they change anything? Could they save anyone? Could they stop evil things from happening? Will new perils and problems befall them? How will their presence affect the outcome of the war? Will it change drastically or will it only change a little? Let's find out what changes they will make in Middle-Earth. And the story begins...
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A young youth, at the age of 15, opened his eyes to see a clear blue sky above him. What...I was just playing man-hunt at the church. He had dark brown hair, with blue eyes. He was 5"5, athletic, and good looking (hey, I'm not going to call myself ugly). He was wearing blue jeans with a white t-shirt, and had black and white sneakers on.
He looked around behind him and saw the biggest mountain range he'd ever seen. Far off into the distance was a forest. The grass underneath him was green, and off to the left of him he could make out a great river, the Andiun.
A girl, around the age of 14, lay not too far from him. He got up and walked over to her. She had dark brown hair that reached down to her shoulders and had dark brown eyes that never failed to capture him. She was taller than him at 5"6. She had blue jeans on. She was wearing a sweater with a green shirt underneath. She had white sneakers on as well. As he looked down he thought she was pretty, of course, he always thought she was pretty.
He bent down and shook her gently, "Hey, Jordan, wake up. Jordan...wake up."
"Wha-...Aaron," Jordan sat up and looked around, "Where are we," she asked groggily.
"I have no clue where we are," he said, "the last thing I remember is falling down the hill and crashing into you."
"Yeah, and I hit my head on a rock," she lifted her hand to the back of her head and winced.
"Are you alright," Aaron looked concerned.
"Yeah, it'll be fine. Just a little tender," Jordan sat there for a while trying to wake up, "Where do you think we are?" she asked.
"I don't know. I don't think I've ever been here before," Aaron looked around.
Jordan stood up and stretched, "Well, let's go find out where we are."
"Well, where do you suggest we go? The forest or the mountains," he pointed in both directions.
"The forest. There are likely more people there, and it could give us cover from bad weather...although I don't think it's gonna be raining anytime soon," Jordan looked up at the sky as a black bird flew across it.
"Alright. Let's go."
They set off toward the forest at a comfortable walk. The sky was clear except for the few white clouds that dotted the sky. The sun shown brightly, and was high overhead. A breeze picked up and cooled them off. As they neared the forest they started to talk again, "I wonder where we are," Aaron broke the silence.
Jordan smiled, "Maybe we're in Middle-Earth.
"Yeah, and that's Mirkwood or Lothlorien," he laughed.
As they were talking they came upon the forest and entered. The air was cool and smelled sweet. The forest floor was covered with golden leaves. The trees were full of green leaves and the bark on the trees was smooth and gray.
Aaron looked around, "Maybe we are in Lothlorien."
They walked on for a while and gazed and stared at the trees in wonder. They came to a little stream, stopped and took a drink. Aaron bent down and splashed Jordan in the face, "Hey," she laughed and splashed him back, "You do that again and I'll throw you in and not think twice about it," she warned him.
They walked over to a nearby tree and sat down for a rest. After a while they resumed their walk. They followed the stream for a couple of minutes.
"Halt," a man stepped out from the trees, with more people behind him. He was holding a bow with an arrow aimed strait at them. He had long blonde hair past his shoulders, and had brown eyes. He was taller than both of them. Aaron noticed he had pointed ears. He's an...Elf!!! He was wearing a brown tunic and breeches, with soft brown leather boots. His cloak was light brown and seemed to shimmer when he moved in the sun.
"You're an elf!!!" They said in unison. Jordan fainted and Aaron caught her before she hit the ground. He laid her on the ground and looked back at the elf.
"I'm Halidir," said the elf.
"You're Halidir?" Aaron said breathlessly. He stood there staring at the elf with his mouth open.
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Where am I? An eighteen year old, with blonde hair and blue eyes, stood strait up and examined his surroundings. He was tall and built. He had jean shorts on that came past his knees, with a dark green shirt that had a black cross on the front.
He was standing in a dense forest with tall wide trees all around him. The air was thick, which made it hard to breath. The place felt old, and smelt like moss. "This isn't my room," he muttered to himself.
He started to walk, trying to figure out where he was. He broke off a long branch from one of the trees. The trees started to groan and creek in a way. It felt almost like the trees were angry. How could I have ended up here? I thought I just fell asleep in my room. Unless this is a dream and I'm not waking up...maybe I'm in another world. What am I thinking...but there is no other way to explain it. God, help me.
He thought something moved to the right of him, what was that. He looked in the direction of the movement. All he saw was a black bird sitting on a high branch. That's odd he thought. As he was looking he tripped on a rock and started to fall. He rolled down a steep, small hill, end over end, and landed with a thud.
He looked up and saw three gangly looking creatures not to far from him. They had gray skin and stood a little hunched. They stood there talking amongst themselves until they heard him fall. They turned around and looked strait at him and he knew what they were as soon as they did. Orcs!!! They can't be...but they're standing right in front of me. Could I be in Middle-Earth? I can't be he thought franticly. The orcs started to walk toward him as he stood up. He backed away from them hurriedly, and they quickened their pace. "Well, what do we have here," said the nearest orc.
They all laughed as they kept on coming at him, "Dinner," said another.
"Men's flesh," said one as he unsheathed his dagger. The orc charged with his dagger in hand, murder in his eyes. Andrew turned to run, but tripped over a root which sent him rolling. He looked up as an arrow pierced the oncoming orc in the eye. The orc tried to scream, but all that came out was black blood, and fell down dead. The other two orcs looked startled but quickly regained their composure. They charged, one heading in the direction the arrow flew from and the other strait at him. He heard something hit the ground beside him. There on the ground was a long silver sword. He had no time to think. He grabbed the sword and stood up to meet the charging orc. He met the orcs blow and the orc snarled. I'm fighting an Orc! He thought as he repeatedly blocked the orcs thrusts. While fighting the orc he heard a shrill scream. The remaining orc turned to look in the direction of his fallen comrade's scream. Now! He wasted no time. He advanced to attack the orc furiously. The orc desperately tried to meet the blows and stand his ground but was pushed back. Finally he swung with all of his might and sent the orcs' sword flying. Then without knowing what he was doing he spun in a circle and sliced. Black blood squirted everywhere as the orcs' head fell to the ground and the body lay limp against a tree.
The young man stood there with sweat rolling down his face. He looked at the dead orcs' body, almost emptying his stomach, and at the hideous head lying a few feet from the body it was just attached to. He started to regain his breath and sat down with his back against a tree. "Well done," came a mans voice as he stepped into view.
The man had black hair, with some gray in it, that came a little past his shoulders. His eyes were blue-green. He was tall and looked muscular. He had a short, scruffy beard with a mustache. Other than the gray in his hair he looked like he was in his mid thirty's. He stood there holding his bow in hand with a leather glove on his right hand. A leather vest was over top of chain mail. He had black, leather breeches on, and leather boots caked with mud. He was wearing his quiver on his back, full of arrows. A dagger was hanging from his belt in its sheath.
The young man stood strait up still holding the sword, "Who are you?" he asked.
"My name is Ardenel. I'm a ranger of the north. It was me who killed that orc," he nodded toward the orc with an arrow through the eye, "and the other over there," he pointed in the direction the scream came.
The young man relaxed and lowered the sword, "Thank you. I'd probably be dead if it wasn't for you."
"Probably. You handled yourself pretty well in that fight. Have you ever used a sword in combat before?" asked Ardenel.
"No. I've never had to use one before," he glanced down at the dead orcs' body and the sword in his hands.
"Then it seems that I'll have to teach you how to use that," Ardenel nodded toward the sword, "You know my name. Would you care to tell me yours?"
"I'm Andrew," he said.
"Well met, my friend," Ardenel stuck out his hand toward Andrew.
Andrew shook it firmly, "Uhhh...where are we?"
Ardenel looked confused, "We're in Fangorn Forest," he said, "are you lost?"
"Fangorn Forest," Andrew choked on the name.
"Where are you from?" asked Ardenel.
I am in Middle-Earth. And not just anywhere in Middle-Earth...Fangorn Forest!!! When I was reading Lord of the Rings, I never thought I'd actually be there. How did I get here though? Well, that can wait. What am I going to tell this man...I'm from another world and a country called America? I could tell him I'm lost. Yeah, that's it. I am aren't I? Now that I know where I am, I'm not. Rohan shouldn't be too far from here. I could meet Aragorn if I'm in the right time period. I wonder if the ring has been destroyed or if Frodo is carrying it into Mordor right now? I wond...
"Hey, are you lost," Ardenel asked again.
"Uhhh...yeah...well, not really. So I'm in Fangorn Forest. Thank you. I know where I am now," Andrew stumbled over his words.
"Your welcome. The sun is going down, and I'll be making camp soon. If you'd like to camp with me I have an extra bed roll."
"Thank you. I think I will," said Andrew, "and if you meant what you said about teaching me how to use this...I'd like to learn," he gripped the sword and swung it through the air.
"I'm traveling to Rohan," Ardenel pointed south, "I'll teach you enough to defend yourself, and survive in battle."
"If we're going to make camp...can we make camp away from them?" he gestured toward the dead orcs in front of them.
Ardenel laughed, "I think we should. Let's go."
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A black, violet bird, which could only be a raven, flew over the plains of Rohan. It noticed two black spots lying on the ground below it. It wheeled around and did a nose dive toward the spots to examine them closer. After getting a closer look at the spots it turned west and left to report what it had seen to its master.
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Two teenagers, a boy and a girl, stood on the plains of Rohan breathing loudly. They stood there watching the raven as it turned and flew to the west. After regaining their breath they started to talk again.
The 16 year old girl sat back down. She had long black hair and brown eyes. She was tall, with broad shoulders. She was very good looking. She sat there wearing a blue shirt with blue sweats, and white sneakers. "Did you see that?" she asked looking up at the boy beside her.
The boy looked to be 17. He stood there watching as the raven turned into a black spec and vanished. It was warm out and the boy stood there sweating. He wiped his forehead with the back of his hand, and then wiped his hands on his jeans, and his yellow shirt. He was taller than the girl, but not by much. He had short brown hair, and light brown eyes. He was somewhat gangly but still looked muscular from working long hours on his farm. "Yeah, I saw that. It dove right at us. I thought it was attacking us or something. To bad I didn't have my twenty-two with me. That thing would be dead right now," he sat down beside the girl.
"Of course it would, Eric," she laughed, "Alright, forget about the bird. How do you think we got here? I've been thinking, but can't think of a logical explanation."
Eric sat there in thought, "I don't know either, Ashton. We couldn't have been picked up out of our beds, and carried here without knowing about it...unless we were both drugged, but then I don't see why someone would drug us and bring us out here, wherever here is."
They were sitting on a plain in Rohan and didn't even know it. There were golden rolling hills as far as the eye could see all around them. Other than a few big boulders there was no change in scenery. The sky was clear, without a cloud in the sky. The sun started to get warmer and they both started to sweat.
They sat there thinking of ideas of how they got there, and what they should do now. As they were talking Ashton saw a flash in the distance, "What was that?" she pointed behind Eric.
Eric looked behind him as the forms got closer, "I think they're horses, and there's men riding on them."
Ashton got up and started to head in the horse's direction, "C'mon, let's go find out where we are," she said to Eric.
Eric and Ashton walked over the hills and around the boulders to where the horsemen were standing. One of the riders saw them coming and yelled to the others. The men started forward heading in their direction. There were about two-hundred riders in all. One of the riders carried a green banner, with a white horse in the middle. He held the banner up proudly. That's...that's... "That's the banner of Rohan," gasped Ashton.
"Are you sure?" asked Eric, "How could we be in Rohan?"
"I don't know. But I do know that that is the banner of Rohan. See its green, with a white horse in the middle of it."
The riders were swift and surrounded them quickly. Ashton and Eric stood in the middle of the circle looking strait at long pointed spears. Now I know how Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas felt thought Eric. Some of the riders held bows, with arrows ready to loose any second, pointed straight at them, while the others held a spear. "What business brings you to Rohan?" asked a tall man in front of them.
Eric started, "Nothing sir...
But Ashton cut him off, "You see, we're lost. We stumbled onto your land by accident." I hope that will be enough of an answer. She noticed that the tall man had a white horse tail attached to the back of his helm. That's Eomer!!!
"I'm talking to Eomer," she said in a whisper to herself.
Murmurs started to rise up among the riders around them. Eomer looked stunned, "How do you know my name?" he asked.
Eric eyed her from where he stood, "I said we're homeless. Both of our parents were killed by orcs. We are the only two that escaped from our village alive. We've traveled a long way from lands beyond Mordor. We're both hungry and thirsty. Do you have any water you would be willing to spare?" What? We're homeless!!! That was stupid she thought.
"You're homeless?" Eomer eyed them questioningly, "I have no knowledge of lands beyond Mordor except for the Easterlings. Are you Easterlings?" he reached down and handed them his leather water bottle.
Both Ashton, and Eric took a drank then gave the bottle back to Eomer, "Thank you. We are not Easterlings. We come from a land called America. We are not your enemies. We are against Sauron," said Ashton.
"I have never heard of a land called America. We are not at open war with Sauron but we do not give tribute to that accursed land," said Eomer looking down at them with hard eyes, "I would like to hear more about this land called America. We're going to Edoras. I'm inviting you to accompany us. Or you could head north and out of our lands. The decision is yours."
Ashton stood there stunned at what she had just heard but regained her composure, "Thank you for your hospitality," said Ashton as she looked over at Eric with a smile on her face, "We'll gladly come."
"Good. You will stay in the Golden Hall," said Eomer, "Before we go on any further, I'd like to know your names."
"I'm Ashton, and this is Eric," she introduced them both, "And what is yours, if I may ask?"
"I am Eomer, son of Eomund. Third Marshal of the Riddermark," Eomer said as he straightened in his saddle.
"Well, Eomer son Eomund, we thank you again for your hospitality," Ashton slightly bowed.
Eomer nodded, "Give these two a horse so we may arrive at Edoras before nightfall."
A brown mare was brought to them. Eric mounted up first followed by Ashton behind him. "Let's ride," yelled Eomer and the horsemen moved as one south across the plains toward Edoras and the Golden Hall. They rode behind Eomer for most of the ride.
At one point when they were riding Eomer called for them and they rode forward, "I am glad you chose to ride with us. Eric, you look like you would do well in battle. Do you think you would like to become a Rider of the Mark?"
"I don't know. I've never used a sword before. I would if I learned how to use a weapon," Eric swallowed. He thinks I could become a rider of the Mark. That would be cool. I wonder what Aaron would say. Probably something like: "Why would you want to become a rider of the Mark when you could become a soldier of Gondor and fight beside Aragorn?" He laughed to himself silently.
"If you do want to become a rider then I will make sure you learn, and learn well. You would also learn to use a spear and bow," Eomer said, "Are you willing to learn."
"Yes, I'm willing."
"Then tomorrow you will begin training. I will send someone to wake you in the morning," he turned to Ashton, "My sister, Eowyn, will be glad to have another woman to keep her company. She is always with the king in these days of late. I'm sure she would teach you to use a bow and wield a sword."
"I would like that," said Ashton as she smiled knowing who Eowyn was.
After that Eomer became quiet and they fell behind him again. Finally at sunset they reached Edoras. The Golden Hall was at the top of the hill shining bright even as the sun set.
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The raven flew west until it came into view of its master's domain, Isengard. Isengard was now a barren, gray land. Sarumans orcs tore down all of the trees, and destroyed everything living, and green. As the raven flew high overhead, it could see orcs scurrying on the ground, as well as the orcs in the fiery pits making weapons of war.
The tower of Orthanc was set in the middle of Sarumans fortress. It looked like a black spike jutting out of the earth toward the sky. The surface was smooth, hard, and insuperable. The Numanoreans built Orthanc long ago in their splendor, but now Saruman has claimed it as his own, and has allied himself with Barad-dur and the Dark Lord Sauron.
The raven sped down into one of the caverns, and looked for its master. Once it found him it reported what it had seen and left.
Saruman stood there gripping his staff, and looking out into the caverns. He watched as his orcs fueled the fires of Orthanc, and made weapons for his newly created Uruk-hai. So, there are five new children in Middle-Earth. Two in Lothlorien and three in Rohan. I cannot dismiss the feeling that they are a threat to my Lord, and myself. They are just children. What could they possibly do to hinder our plans? They remind me of those halflings Gandalf holds dear.
"My army will destroy the shire and kill all the halflings that live there!" he raged. No matter. I will assemble two companies of Uruk-hai, and send them to Lothlorien and Rohan to kill these five children. I will see how superior my creations are compared to Saurons miserable slaves.
He summoned an orc, and gave the command to assemble two small companies of Uruk-hai.
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Aaron stood there for a moment just looking at Haldir.
"What brings you to the Golden Woods?" asked Haldir.
"Umm...we didn't know these were the woods of Lothlorien. If you want us to leave we will," Aaron said searching for the right words to say and trying to sound respectful at the same time.
"You have already entered the Golden Woods. You cannot go back," said Haldir, "You will now be blindfolded and taken to Caras Galadon."
Aaron couldn't read the demeanor of elves. Were they being friendly or were they angry with him and Jordan? Jordan regained consciousness. They were both blindfolded, and before they knew it they were being led through the paths of Lothlorien. Even being blindfolded, they were elated to be in the Golden Wood. The branches and leaves swaying in the wind sounded beautiful. Even as that thought came to them, they heard an elf's voice rise up and sing. The song was beautiful to listen to, even though they couldn't understand what he was singing. The elf's voice faded and they walked in silence once more.
After hours of walking their blindfolds were taken off and they stood there in awe of what they saw. They were looking at buildings that were built in the trees. The branches and trunks went straight through the buildings climbing ever higher. The buildings themselves were breath taking. Many of them were white, silver and green, and they all had golden rooftops. They saw elves walking, talking and singing amongst themselves. They were wearing clothes of white, and silver. To Jordan and Aaron they seemed to glow and shine as they walked.
"Everything here is beautiful, and so peaceful," said Jordan staring at the city.
"Thank you," said Haldir, "We are a peaceful people, although I do not think it will be peaceful for long."
"Why is that?" asked Jordan.
"Sauron has made war on Middle-Earth," said Haldir sadly as they made their way to a silver building at the top of the stairs, "and I fear his arm will stretch to Lothlorien soon. We have word that he has already taken Osgiliath in Gondor. Saruman, once friend and ally of Rohan, has betrayed them and allied himself with the Dark Lord. He has bred a new form of orc he calls 'Uruk-hai'." They stand upright and can endure the sun unlike the orcs of Saurons. We have seen them a little ways off of our borders. They are disgusting creatures," as he finished they were entering the building.
"Well that doesn't sound good," she said. Now I know what age we're in she thought.
"Indeed, it doesn't. I fear Middle-Earth is about to face it's darkest days," he looked up as if talking to himself, "And I wonder if we will aid the Men of Middle-Earth against this threat, and die beside them," he looked around and noticed where he was, "I am sorry. This is where you will be staying until Lord Celeborn, and Lady Galadriel summon you. I apologize for our harsh actions, confining you to this building, but we are cautious with strangers as of late. In earlier days we would have welcomed you warmly and with a joyful heart, and let you wander around the city freely."
"It's fine. We understand," Aaron said disappointedly because of not being able to see the city, "These are troubled times."
"Will we be able to wander around, and talk with the elves?" asked Jordan hopefully.
"If the Lord and Lady permit it. Once word gets out that you are here others will come and visit with you," said Haldir as he made his way to the door, "Farewell."
"Well, we're in Lothlorien and we can't even leave this building," Jordan said sounding down.
"I know. It sucks, doesn't it," said Aaron as Jordan glared at him for using that word (Jordan doesn't like it when people say "sucks" for some odd reason).
The room they were in was dimly lit with what seemed to be silver light. There were two large beds in the room, along with an intricately carved table, with two silver wooden chairs. On the table sat a bowl with different kinds of fruit in it. Beside the bowl sat a pitcher of water and silver cups. The scent of bread, cheese, and butter filled the air, and they noticed their stomachs were growling.
They sat down at the table and ate dinner. After eating their fill they sat in silence for a while relaxing from their long walk in the forest. They heard an elf outside talking with the two guards that were stationed at the door. After conversation stopped outside, a female elf walked in. She had long golden hair, like most elves, and was as tall as Haldir. She was in a long flowing white gown with silver slippers underneath. She had blue eyes, and was the most beautiful being Aaron or Jordan had ever seen.
"Welcome to Lothlorien," she said as she sat down joining them at the table, "I'm Silke, of the Golden Wood. Do you like it here?"
Aaron spoke up, "Yes, we love it here. We just wish we could see more of your land," he extended his hand toward her, "Nice to meet you Silke."
She took his hand and shook it as she laughed, "And nice to meet you...," Aaron gave her their names, "Aaron and Jordan."
Jordan and Aaron sat there talking to Silke long into the night. They talked about where they were from, not going into great detail, and she in turn told them about her land and places she has traveled. They got on the subject of weapons and Silke asked them if they knew how to use a sword or bow. They told her they didn't so she offered to teach them once they were free and able to go into the city. Silke got up and said farewell, "Alas, it is late and I must leave you so you may get your rest. I see us becoming friends and wish to spend time with you while you're here. There is also a question I would ask you but I cannot tonight."
"We have time. You can ask us now," said Jordan looking a little tired.
"No. You need your rest. I will talk to the Lord and Lady about it. It is a long matter and it will take time to discuss. Tomorrow we may talk more. Good night and farewell," and with that Silke was out the door without making a sound.
"I wonder what the question is," said Jordan.
"So do I, but it can wait until morning, because I'm tired," Aaron kicked off his sneakers and got in bed.
"I hope she meant what she said about becoming friends," Jordan climbed in the opposite bed from Aaron's, "She was really nice."
"She was cool. I can't wait to talk to her tomorrow," Aaron yawned, "Goodnight."
"Goodnight," said Jordan, and after that they were both asleep.
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After the small skirmish with the orcs, Andrew and Ardenel headed south toward Edoras. They walked until the sun was setting. They stopped, made camp, and sat around the fire. The camp was at the border of the forest. It was hard to see through the darkness, and the shadows the trees cast.
"It's hard to see into the forest," said Andrew peering into the darkness.
"It is always this dark at night. They say that trees are alive in there. They call the creatures 'Ents'," Ardenel chuckled as he stood up, "Get up. You're going to have your first lesson with a sword tonight."
"Now? It's late and I'm tired. I worked today," said Andrew tiredly, "Couldn't we do it tomorrow?"
"If you're fighting for your life it doesn't matter whether it's night or day, or if you're dressed or in your bed clothes," said Ardenel as he picked up a long stick, "Now get the sword and come over here."
Andrew got the sword and walked over to him, "Now what?"
"Now I want you to attack me like you did the orc, just slower and then we'll get faster," Ardenel smiled, "Just don't use the finishing move you used on the orc."
Andrew laughed at that, "I won't," and they started the lesson.
Ardenel showed him the basics: how to place his feet, how to attack, and how to defend. The lesson got a little tougher as it got faster and Ardenel complimented Andrew on his skills. They were working for an hour and called it a night. Andrew sat down sweating, regaining his breath.
"You are a natural swordsman," said Ardenel as he got into his bedroll, "With practice you'll be a fine swordsman."
"Thanks," said Andrew.
In the morning they geared up and broke camp. They set off early and didn't stop until late into the night. When they stopped Andrew was dead tired but Ardenel still made him take his lessons. They repeated the same thing for two more nights and finally on the third dusk, as the sun was setting, they came into view of Edoras.
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Eric and Ashton sat in a large elaborate room. A bed was set underneath a large square window with blankets made out of furs from wild beasts. Horses were everywhere. They were carved into the bed, the table in the middle of the room, and the chairs around the table.
"Well, we're at Edoras. Look at this room. It's bigger than my room back home," said Ashton as she cut a piece of bread, put butter on it, and ate it.
"It's bigger than mine too," said Eric, "I still can't believe it. We've met King Theoden, Eomer, and even Theodred, the kings' son. I thought Theodred died in the book?"
"He did in The Two Towers. It must be before then," Ashton looked out the window then suddenly looked at Eric, "I wonder if we could change anything? We could change so much! We could save Boromir. We could keep the Fellowship together if we went with them. We could even save Haldir...well no because he wasn't at Helms Deep in the book, was he?"
Eric sat there listening, "Yeah, we could save Borimir, but Haldir...I don't know. To bad Aaron or Dave aren't here, they know everything that happened in the book."
"I know it would be nice to have them here," she started to say but was interrupted by Eric.
"Ashton," said Eric cutting her off.
"What?" asked Ashton a little annoyed at being interrupted.
"If we do save Boromir and somehow keep the Fellowship together, would the ring still be destroyed? If we change something, we don't know what kind of affect it will have on the outcome of the war."
"We'll just have to be careful then," said Ashton. She saw something in Eric's eye and got closer to look. The door opened and in stepped the king's niece, Eowyn.
She smiled, "Am I interrupting anything?"
They quickly backed away from each other looking embarrassed, "No...uhhh...she was just getting something out of my eye," said Eric with Eowyn looking at him disbelieving, "Honest."
"You must be Eric and Ashton," said Eowyn.
"Yes," said Ashton with a reddened face.
"I am Eowyn, daughter of Eomund. I've come to see you to your room," she said to Ashton then spoke to Eric, "I understand you are going to become a Rider of the Mark?"
"Yes, I am. I was told I start training tomorrow," he said.
"If you start tomorrow then you will need your rest. It is not easy training," she said motioning to Ashton, "Come and I will show you to your room."
"Goodnight," Ashton said to Eric as she walked out of the room with Eowyn into the hall.
They walked out leaving Eric standing there. Well, that was interesting. Could Ashton be right? We could save Boromir. I'll find out tomorrow if it's before the War of the Ring or not. I should have read the books more than once so I would know a lot more about this place and all the other places out there in Middle-Earth. Of course I didn't know that I would actually be here at Edoras in Rohan or anywhere in Middle-Earth for that matter. He stripped down to his shorts and got in bed. I wonder how early they'll wake me? The training is hard, huh? Well, don't think it'll be as hard as the day me and dad had to bale one thousand bales of hay. After that thought he fell asleep.
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Eowyn led Ashton out of Eric's room and through halls to a door as big as Eric's. Eowyn opened the door and walked in. The room was just as big as Eric's. The only thing different were green curtains for the two windows facing the city. "This is where you'll be staying permanently unless you choose to travel elsewhere. You can do what you want with the room, it's yours," said Eowyn.
Permanantly? Not saying that's bad but...I can't believe they would just give me a room just like that. "Thank you," said Ashton.
"Your welcome. It will be nice to have another woman to talk to besides all these men," Eowyn smiled, "Tomorrow if you would like I will show you around and outside the city. I hear you wish to learn how to wield a sword and shoot a bow."
"Yes, I would like to learn," said Ashton stunned forgetting what Eomer said for a moment.
"It is a joy to see another woman eager to learn how to use weapons. I will start teaching you tomorrow after I show you the city. We will practice in the training yard and show those men that they are not the only sex that can fight," she got up and stood at the door, "I have kept you long enough. Farewell."
"Goodnight," said Ashton as Eowyn left.
Tomorrow should be interesting she thought as she climbed into bed exhausted, and fell asleep.
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