Hey guys! READ & REVIEW! I need feedback! Well, anywho, here's Chappy 4! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: Do I need to say this yet again? sighs Fine. I don't own Lord of the Rings or any one of Tolkien's characters, only Laura. Cries cause she doesn't own Legolas.
Just so you know, when somethings written italics it either means what is written is Elvish or Laura's thoughts. Elvish translations at the end of the line.
Chapter 4: The Council of Elrond
When Legolas and Laura arrived at the Dining Hall, it was already crowded and people were beginning to seat themselves. Laura looked at those present; Aragorn, Arwen, the hobbits, including Frodo, Elrond, Gandalf, many dwarves, and many others.
Legolas brought Laura to a seat near the head of the table, where Elrond sat. To Elrond's right sat Gandalf, than Frodo and the other hobbits. To his left sat Arwen, Aragorn, Laura, than Legolas. Laura enjoyed all the company; the hobbits would ask crazy questions between mouthfuls, causing Laura to giggle. The different assortment of foreign food was Laura's favorite thing that evening and Legolas would chat with her from time to time.
Every now and then, Laura would get an uncomfortable feeling, like someone was watching her. Legolas noticed her discomfort and would try to sooth her with pleasant conversation. Little did they know, Laura was being watched; the man sitting on the other side of Legolas would cast glances at her from time to time. He was human and of larger build than Aragorn; his hair was a dark brown and he was dressed as royalty. His brown eyes held many emotions. If you looked into his eyes at that moment, you would see curiosity and interest reside in them. He didn't talk to many, but seemed preoccupied with something. As the meal drew to an end, Elrond stood and addressed the guests in a polite fashion.
"The meal shall end shortly. If you would prefer to retire early, for you must be weary with your travels, you may. For all those whom it may concern, the Council shall take place after mid-day tomorrow. Lunch will be served, than we shall leave for the Council. Aduial vaer." After all was said, he seated himself again and proceeded in eating. (Good evening.)
Laura had not rested all day and had been walking since she arrived in Middle-Earth. She just wanted to get some sleep, so a few minutes after Elrond had spoken, she stood and bade all, "Goodnight." Legolas stood when she had and gave her another kiss on the hand.
"Iwish you sweet dreams, and I look forward to seeing you in the morning." Laura smiled and bowed before turning away from him and walking towards the doors leading into the corridors.
She reached the corridor and began walking back to her chamber, when she heard footsteps; someone was following her. In her fright, she started walking faster, only to be stopped when a voice called out.
"Wait, I have not properly met you."
Laura turned and looked into the eyes of the man who had been seated beside Legolas. He frightened her somewhat, yet she did not know why. He seemed nice enough, but right now, she just wanted to get away from him; she wanted to go to her chambers.
"I am Boromir, son of Denethor of Gondor," he announced.
Boromir! Laura thought. This man is Boromir! Why does he frighten me so? I wouldn't have thought I would be frightened of him. He's part of the Fellowship and a good man, except when he tries to take the Ring, but even then he is controlled by the power of the Ring.
"I'm Laura Bradford,'' Laura returned without smiling. "I am sorry," she continued, "but I am tired and would like to retire for the evening. The day has been long and wearisome. Perhaps we may talk more tomorrow."
"Then it has been a pleasure meeting you, Laura and I wish you a good night," Boromir replied, smiling.
"The same to you, Boromir," Laura stated returning the gesture, but hers was a false smile.
"Goodnight," Laura said and turned to continue on her way to her chambers. She, fortunately, did not get lost, even in the darkness. She hoped she would be able to find her way around in the morning.
In the morning, Laura was awoken by a maid; the same one from the day before, Laura had found out her name was Urithrawiel.
"Excuse me, my lady, but Lord Elrond wishes to speak with you as soon as possible. I have drawn a bath for you."
"What time is it?" Laura mumbled, not at all awake.
"It is nearly eleven in the morning by the sun, my lady. When you have finished bathing, would you require my assistance with dressing?"
"No, I will be fine. Thank you," Laura replied, smiling, more awake now.
Urithrawiel nodded and left the room. When Laura finished bathing with the wonderful elvish soaps, she found a simple, yet beautiful red dress lying on her bed. Urithrawiel must have got it out for her. She put it on and left to go to Elrond's study. She knew where it was, for it was hisstudy that she had been brought to when she first arrived at Rivendell.
She knocked on the huge oak doors and heard a muffled voice say, "Come in." Laura entered the office and saw Lord Elrond seated at his desk talking to Gandalf. Both heads raised and looked towards the door when it opened.
"Ah, Laura," Elrond said, "you are probably wondering why I have asked you to come here. You also wonder how I knew of you. Please sit down," he said motioning to a chair before his desk, next to where Gandalf sat. "I believe you have not yet met Gandalf the Grey."
"No, I have not, Lord Elrond. An honor it is to meet you Gandalf," Laura said smiling to the elderly wizard.
"The pleasure is mine," Gandalf replied smiling, a twinkle in his eye.
"Now," Elrond stated, "to begin with the more important question. How I knew of you. Many years ago, Lady Galadriel of Lothlorien told me a woman from a different world would appear one day; she would play an important role in the fate of Middle-Earth. She would also know the future of what was to happen. Recently, I was told by Galadriel that she had arrived and to await her coming here. Gandalf also believes you are the one Galadriel spoke of those many years ago. In these evil times, I cannot be to sure of what is true, therefore, tell me, do you know what is to happen in the future of Middle-Earth?"
Laura nodded, dumbstruck at this statement. Somehow, they knew she would arrive one day. How and why, she didn't know. Why was it her that wasbrought here? But, she would believe Elrond and listen to him.
"I see," Elrond said sternly, "It is for this reason that I ask you to join us at the Council this afternoon after lunch. Will you be there?"
"Yes, I shall, Lord Elrond. If that is what you wish," Laura replied, regaining her composure.
"Very good. We shall see you then, Laura." He nodded at her and she bowed in return and turned to Gandalf and did the same, than left the office.
So I am here for a reason.
It was nearly noon, and time for lunch. Laura walked into the Dining Hall, and as before, it was crowded and everyone was seating themselves. The seating arrangements were different from the night before. Instead of sitting next to Legolas, she was next to Boromir and Arwen. Boromir was not as frightening as the night before. Maybe it was because last night it was dark and she was in a corridor alone with him; now she was with others in the Dining Hall. Boromir seemed interested in Laura and wanted to know more about her and where she was from. Luckily, before they could go into a deep conversation about her past, Elrond rose and spoke.
"The Council I have called you all to be present for will begin in fifteen minutes. I trust to be seeing you all there. You may relax until then."
This was Laura's chance to get away from Boromir. She didn't want to get into deep conversation with him, especially not about where she was from and her past. So far, only Elrond and Gandalf knew about her and she intended it stay that way for a while. She excused herself and left to walk in the gardens before the Council started.
"Strangers from distant lands, friends of old, you have been summoned here to answer to the threat of Mordor. Middle-Earth stands upon the brink of destruction. None can escape it. You will unite or you will fall. Each race is bound to this fate—this one doom."
Those were the first words spoken at the Council. Laura looked to see who was present; Elrond, Gandalf, Frodo, Aragorn, Legolas, Boromir, and a dwarf that Laura guessed to be Gimli. There were many others there as well, including the hobbits hidden in the brush. Laura's gaze passed among those assembled and when her gaze rested on Legolas, he gave her a slight smile before returning to his stern look. She was seated to the left of Aragorn, who appeared tense and worried. She was about to tell him to calm down, when Elrond spoke again.
"Bring forth the Ring, Frodo."
Frodo stood and cautiously placed the Ring on the pedestal in the center of everyone. They all stared at the Ring, either with a look of fear or greed. Boromir's eyes glinted with malice as he glared at the Ring. He stood and began speaking, but another voice was distracting Laura; she turned to look at the Ring. "Laura," it called as her breathing hastened and eyes glinted. An intense desire grew within her to stand and claim the Ring as her own. Her thoughts were jarred and she was brought back to reality when a voice yelled out, "This is no mere ranger. He is Aragorn, son of Arathorn. You owe him your allegiance." Legolas had spoken to Boromir.
"Havo dad, Legolas," Aragorn said heavily to the elf. He didn't wish to be known right now. (Sit down, Legolas)
Laura became lost in thought, again, for most of the Council. She began thinking of what was to happen to the Fellowship. Should I join? She thought of Boromir and his corruptionwith the Ring. If only he knew. But, I can't tell him, that might mess up the Quest. Oh, this is so hard!
A fight erupted among the Elves and Dwarves. Gimli continued yelling about how distrustful elves are; "Never trust an Elf," he yelled. Soon it turned into a whole fiasco with the entire Council. Elrond remained seated, clearly displeased with this behavior, his head resting in his hand. Laura stayed seated and closed her eyes, anticipating what she was to here next: a small voice. And sure enough, a voice yelled out,
"I will take it." Laura's eyes snapped open and looked to Frodo as she heard him. No one else had been listening, so Laura nodded her head in encouragement and he yelled out again,
"I will take it."
He paused when everyone froze and turned their gazes to him. Their eyes widened in wonder and awe; some even had their mouths gapping open. Elrond looked on in shock, but did not show it on his features.
"I will take the Ring to Mordor. Though, I do not know the way." Laura pitied the little hobbit; he did not know what he was getting into. But, perhaps he did, he had volunteered to go on this journey after all. Gandalf, being the first one to awaken from his shock, walked towards Frodo saying,
"I will help you bear this burden, Frodo Baggins, as long as it is yours to bear." He walked behind the hobbit, in sign of support, and stood. Aragorn stood, and as he did, Laura thought she saw Gandalf winking at Elrond out of the corner of her eye. Aragorn walked towards Frodo, then bent down on one knee before the hobbit, saying,
"By my life or death, I can protect you. I will. You have my sword."
Like Gandalf, he walked and stood behind Frodo. Legolas stood and announced to the all, "And you have my bow," and Gimli followed suit calling, "And my ax." Both followed Aragorn's lead and stood behind Frodo. Laura tried to contain her laughter when she saw the glare the two were giving each other. Lastly, Boromir stood.
"You carry the fates of us all, little one. If this is indeed the will of the Council, then Gondor will see it done."
He went to stand behind the hobbit as the others had.
"Hey," a voice called out from behind a bush. Sam ran out and stood beside Frodo. "Mr. Frodo's not goin' anywhere without me."
"No, indeed, it is hardly possible to separate you, even when he is summoned to a secret council, and you are not," Elrond stated, amused.
Another voice from behind Elrond yelled out, "Wait! We are coming too!" Merry and Pippin ran out from behind a pillar to Frodo's side. Elrond looked as if he were to die from all the goings on. He looked to be thinking he needed more security around the palace. Laura muffled her laughs.
"You'd have to send us home tied up in a sack to stop us," Merry said matter-a-factly.
"Anyway, you need people of intelligence on this sort of mission…quest…thing," Pippin ended firmly.
Laura couldn't believe she wasn't rolling on the floor, laughing. This was so much funnier, live.
"Well, that rules you out, Pip," Merry said, jesting. Pippin looked at him in disbelief for a moment as Laura cast a glance at Elrond for support before she stood. He gave a small smile and did a quick nod of the head. When Laura saw him do this, she stood, knowing she had his support, even if she didn't have the others'. She walked towards Frodo and bent down, getting eye-level with him.
"We may not have known each other for very long, but I will do anything in my power to help you on your journey." She spoke slowly, yet firmly,then stood and walked to stand beside Aragorn. All eyes stared at her in disbelief; the only two unmoved by her proclamation were Elrond and Gandalf.
Elrond stood and spoke, humor and pride glinting in his eyes at the young hobbits' antics and Laura's bravery. His face showed the humor evident in his eyes for but a moment, then turned back into the stern mask he usually wore. His eyes became serious and powerful.
"Ten companions. So be it. Nine companions to match the nine Ring-wraiths and One to match the Dark-Lord Sauron. You shall be the Fellowship of the Ring."
He said this seriously, but, you could tell he was proud at the bravery of all who volunteered to journey on the Quest. He smiled in hope at those assembled before him.
"Great," Pippin stated, excitedly. "Where are we going?"
All stared at Pippin, shock written on their faces. How could he not know what the entire Counciland Quest was about. This was all too much for Laura; she just burst out laughing. All eyes turned to her in her state of hilarity. She just continued laughing.
Once Laura was able to calm down, Elrond told the Fellowship that they would be leaving in two months time, then dismissed them from the Council. Some stayed behind to talk, but Laura wanted time to think to herself, so she wandered back to her favorite spot in Rivendell, the gardens.
She wandered among the flowers, looking at them all and thinking. So, I guess I'm with the Fellowship. Laura stopped for a moment as realization hit her. What about home; Mom, Dad, Riley, Skippy, and the others! Will I ever see them again? I hope so; I couldn't bear being separated from them forever, even if I am in my favorite movie/book of all time. It would take some time to get used to the thought about being separated from her family and friends for who knows how long. She remained deep in thought, but she looked at the flowers surrounding her as she was. To Laura, none matched the beauty of the simbelmyne flower she had seen the day before. She began looking for the little white flower, when a familiar voice said from behind her,
"I thought I might find you here."
Laura turned, and smiled when she looked into the dazzling blue eyes of Legolas. He smiled in return and continued,
"Lord Elrond believes you should know how to fight before we leave, therefore, he has requested Aragorn, Boromir, and myself to train you; I shall train you in archery, while Aragorn and Boromir shall train you in swordsmanship."
"That sounds fine. When do we begin?"
"We start tomorrow. It would be best if you trained as much as possible before we leave. Would it be suitable to meet me at the archery range atninein the morningtomorrow? You shall begin training with me and train with Aragorn and Boromir after."
"That would be perfectly fine,Prince Legolas," Laura replied, curtsying. "I shall see you at dinner and in the morn."
"Until then, Laura," Legolas said with a bow. He then left.
The rest of the evening was altogether the same as the evening before. Boromir constantly tried to talk to Laura during dinner and Laura was relieved when Elrond dismissed them for the evening. Laura tried to make a quick get-away, but was stopped when Arwen called her name.
"Yes,Lady ArwenArwen," Laura said when she approached the Evenstar of the Elves.
"I have learned that you are to be trained in combat by Aragorn, Legolas, and Boromir. You may borrow some of my training attire," Arwen stated.
"Yes, that would be of much assistance, LadyArwen," Laura replied thankfully. Arwen smiled sweetly and said,
"Laura, you may call me by my rightful name. There is no need for formalities, for they are not commonly used." Laura smiled in return and laughed, saying,
"Yes, of course, I must remember that, for I did not know." Arwen laughed in response.
"I understand, Laura. I shall have a maid bring you the garments in the morning," she added.
"Thank you, again, Arwen. Good evening."
"And you too, Laura," Arwen replied once more, before Laura left the hall for her chamber. A pair of eyes watched her as she went.
Laura walked through the corridors and entered her chamber. It was not late, but Laura was exhausted with the days events and the thoughts that plagued her, so she retrieved her nightgown from the armoire and put it on before lying down to sleep. As soon as her head hit the pillow, she fell into deep slumber.
