The Aemorniel and the Dutchman

by ArinJayFinde

Once Bilbo and Frodo embark upon their eternal adventure, they meet up with some old friends and some new, unexpected company in the form of a black ship captained by Legolas's twin. Just kidding. The two crews begin a search for adventure and immortality, taking them through two worlds and two points of view.

1. Prologue

The pale Elven ship cut a straight, smooth line away from the shore, churning the sea into a creamy wake. Cool air filled the starry sails and pressed them into hard curves, fast as an arrow. Across the water the setting sun filled the horizon and Bilbo had the curious sensation that they were chasing it—just him and Frodo in a little craft following the West.

Frodo stood at the stern, for now, watching the receding shore. Behind them was everything they'd ever known, on any of their adventures.

But it was time.

Frodo gazed out at land one more time before turning forward. The hobbit had tears sparking in his eyes, however dry they had been upon embarking.

Bilbo affectionately patted him on the shoulder. "Don't worry, Frodo," he said. "You'll see them again."

"But how?" Frodo looked down at his uncle. "They're there and I'm… well, I don't know exactly where I'll be."

"It doesn't matter," Bilbo said. "If two paths are meant to intertwine, I have found that they do."

With those words, he walked to the prow and resumed his vigil over the setting sun.