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The pale sky was brightening with the light of dawn as Eredhel hastily made her way to the Eastern Gate of Rivendell. The time had finally come for the Fellowship to set out on the quest to Mordor. Eredhel had spent most of the past weeks training with Glorfindel or wandering around the valley with Legolas. They had passed their hours at the archery field or riding through the trails in the cliffs. Aragorn had occasionally joined them but they had not seen much of him. Now that the Fellowship was leaving a knot had formed in the pit of Eredhel's stomach. Their journey was a perilous one and she had thought long and hard about accompanying them.

They had said their formal farewells the evening before with heavy hearts. While the others went to pack their things she and Aragorn had wandered through the gardens, reliving old adventures and trying not to think about what was to come. Now the hour had arrived. Lord Elrond and several members of his house would see the Fellowship off. Eredhel had spoken with her sister earlier that morning and Arwen's news had troubled her greatly. She rounded a corner and came into view of the small group gathered before the stone archway. Spotting Aragorn she headed over to him. "Come to say another good bye?" he asked, attempting lightheartedness.

"I spoke with Arwen earlier," she replied and felt him stiffen next to her. Eredhel grabbed his arm tightly and led him off to the side, ignoring his slight wince at her strong grip. She released him and lowered her voice so that it could only be heard by his ears. "I know what happened. I was heading to the orchards when I met her in the hall. You told Arwen to sail for Valinor, did you not?" Aragorn met her gaze and she could see the conflict behind his eyes.

"Yes," he admitted.

"She is filled with sorrow and doesn't understand why you have decided not to return." Eredhel was not angry with him, she knew he only wanted to do what he thought was right.

"Time will heal her. Even if I do succeed after I die she will be left alone. I cannot allow her to stay here when she has the chance for a life away from pain and suffering," he said flatly.

"And a life away from you. She gave you that pendant for a reason Aragorn," Eredhel insisted. The Ranger was silent as he let his friend's words sink in.

"Are you going with her then?" he asked.

"Of course not."

"Eredhel, why do you stay? The future is bleak, a great battle lies ahead and our chances of victory lessen with each day that passes," he whispered harshly.

"Because this world is worth fighting for," she replied, looking him straight in the eye. "I think that Middle Earth, that men, can prevail. I have seen much hate and greed in them but I have also seen good in them as well. The ancient honour and courage of Numenor has not yet been completely lost. I will not abandon this land to darkness while there are those who fight so valiantly to save it." Aragorn studied his friend with a sad expression. He wondered what had made her so hard, so willing to sacrifice herself for a world that held a future for only Men. He wanted to convince her to go but he couldn't find the words so he settled for a simpler question.

"What will you do when they are gone?"

"Elladan and Elrohir wish to stay for a while but that must remain a secret between the two of us. The Galadhrim and the Wood Elves are not yet departing and there is always you and Gandalf though he may depart once your task is accomplished. That is, as long as we all survive the next few months," she answered thoughtfully. Aragorn looked at her for a moment and then pulled her into a tight hug. "Estel, be careful," she said softly. He released her and looked into her eyes.

"We will meet again mellonin," he promised then smirked, "I will also keep an eye on Legolas for you."

"What in the name of the Valar is that supposed to mean?" she growled. Aragorn shook his head but didn't reply and led her back to the Fellowship. They were grouped around Lord Elrond with Arwen, Glorfindel and several other elves standing to their left. The sun had not yet completely risen over the hills and they cast long shadows over the ground. Eredhel's father began to speak as she stood to his right, her eyes on Legolas.

"This is my last word. The Ring-bearer is setting out on the quest for Mount Doom. On him alone is any charge laid, the others go with him as free companions. No oath is laid upon you to go farther than you will. For you do not yet know the strength of your hearts and you cannot foresee what each may meet upon the road."

"Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens," said Gimli.

"Perhaps," remarked Eredhel, "but let him not vow to walk in the dark, who has not yet seen nightfall." She cast a glance around at the Fellowship and met Legolas' gaze. Though he gave her a weak smile she could see a darkness in his usually bright eyes. His brow was furrowed and he was looking at her with what seemed like regret.

"Look not too far ahead!" Elrond addressed them, "Farewell, and may the blessing of Elves, Men and all the Free Folk go with you."

"The Fellowship awaits the Ring-bearer." said Gandalf. Frodo made his way to the front of their group. He walked through the giant archway and hesitated a moment considering the twisting path that was laid out before him. Eredhel's ears picked up his whispered question.

"Mordor, Gandalf is it left or right?

"Left," the wizard replied. The Fellowship followed them over the bridge and up the steep paths that led out of the valley. They continued along the narrow trail until they rounded a bend and were lost from view, hidden by the shadows of the trees.

It had been two days since the Fellowship departed and tomorrow Eredhel would leave for Lórien. At the moment, she sat on a bench at the sparring grounds. Her fingers absentmindedly tracing the silver inlay of her bow as she listened to the rustling of the trees. The day was overcast and grey clouds hung low over the valley. Eredhel sighed, ever since seeing Legolas' golden hair vanish from view she had been filled with regret as well as another feeling she had not yet been able to identify. Her chest had tied itself into a heavy knot and she had been restless wondering how the Fellowship was faring. An unusually cold gust of wind swept through the air and stirred her from her thoughts as she saw a tall elf coming down the path towards the field. She recognized the dark brown hair of Gaelring. Except for when they shared an occasional watch, she had not seen him since they led the dwarves into the valley.

"It seems we were of the same mind. The training grounds are rarely so empty," he said, his voice raised over the wind.

"Yes, it seems more and more of our kin are departing for the Grey Havens." She eyed the sword at his hip, "Were you going to spar?"

"Ah yes, I have often trained with your brothers while you've been away but I would be quite glad to have my old opponent back," he answered with a smile.

"I believe we have an old score to settle" she agreed and then rose, going to a rack behind her. Although she carried a long knife for close combat and occasionally a sword she had left both beneath her bed, intending only to practice archery. She drew one of the blades and held it in front of her, checking the balance. When she found one she was satisfied with she turned back to Gaelring and followed him to the large rectangular clearing. They went to opposite sides and Eredhel swung the sword around, testing its weight. Gaelring had always been a challenging opponent, as had her brothers. Another rush of cold air whipped at her hair as she breathed in deeply, focusing on the elf in front of her. He had a slim build and was very tall so she would have to worry more about his speed than his strength.

"Are you ready?" Eredhel called, hoping her words would not be drowned out by the wind.

"Yes, let us begin," he replied. They both took a step forward and hesitated for a moment before Eredhel raised her blade and brought it crashing down towards Gaelring's shoulder. He blocked it then slashed at her feet, causing her to jump back. They continued to exchange blows and the hissing of their swords rang out through the crisp air. Occasionally they would pause for a brief break before resuming their intense exchange of blows. Gaelring gritted his teeth in concentration. Eredhel was strong and her movements swift. He knew she had been to battle and she had always been able to predict his attacks, a skill most likely taught to her by Lord Glorfindel. They sparred for three hours before they halted. The wind had picked up and the sky had darkened, heavy grey clouds threatening to release rain down upon them.

"As skilled as always," remarked Eredhel as she went to replace her weapon.

"Thank you, my Captain upholds the strictest of training regimens." He cocked an eyebrow playfully and she chuckled. "You have not fallen out of practise during your time with the Rangers."

"Though I prefer a bow, a knife or sword is also quite useful in close combat. I've sparred with a few of them and often with Aragorn when we are on the road. Even so, archery is where I have the greater skill." She slid the sword into the wooden rack and wiped some dust from her hands.

"Though I have only rarely seen you in action on patrol, Elladan and Elrohir have often said you can shoot a single leaf from a tree," said Gaelring and Eredhel laughed.

"I was not aware my brothers thought so highly of my abilities." Her face turned serious, "Did they say when they expected to return or if they were meeting the Dúnedain?"

"Lord Elrond gave them an important message for Lórien so they went East, planning to take a pass through the mountains. I do not know if they were coming back immediately after it was delivered," Gaelring explained. Eredhel paused and straightened up, turning the information over in her mind. Her father had said Elladan and Elrohir had gone North.

"Are you quite sure?" she demanded.

"Yes, your brothers returned from an orc hunt in late summer then Lord Elrond gave them the errand. They were to bring information about the Council and scout ahead of those in the Fellowship as your father predicted the outcome of the debate over the Ring's fate," he replied and Eredhel frowned. Why would her father ask her to remain behind if they had already brought word to Lórien? With the orc troops that were roaming the hills the journey to the forest of the Galadhrim would take longer than usual though it would be far less dangerous than the path of the Fellowship. Her eyes widened as the realization suddenly dawned on her. Eredhel's hands curled into fists as she turned from the weapon stand and stormed towards the path through the woods.

"Eredhel?" Gaelring called uncertainly after her but the other elf did not reply. Anger burned through her veins at her father's lie as she ran through the trees. She tried to suppress it but it swelled in her chest until she slammed her fist against a thick trunk in frustration. Pain shot through her arm, there would be bruise there tomorrow but she didn't care.

Suddenly she saw a white flash and staggered, gripping her head tightly as the world seemed to spin in front of her. She remained hunched over as she tried to control her thoughts. A wolf howled and she saw the Ring being picked up by a large hand, the owner's face hidden from view. The scene changed, she could smell smoke and saw a crude arrow heading straight for Aragorn's chest.

Eredhel gasped and pulled at her hair, trying to shut them out. Finally she managed to snap herself out of it, leaning heavily against a silver birch. Her breathing was ragged as she leaned her head back, attempting to calm her racing heart. It had been centuries since she had lost control and seen the visions that she usually tried to hold at bay. Eredhel had always shared her father's gift of foresight but resented it for the visions were almost always of great pain or evil. It had tormented her to the brink of insanity to see the future but be powerless to prevent it. The thought of Lord Elrond made her earlier anger return and she stood, continuing along the path until she reached the main house. Taking a right, she strode through the dark hall and up a wide staircase, passing several elves as her feet pounded on the smooth floor. She had almost reached the entrance to Lord Elrond's study when Arwen crossed in front of her.

"What's going on?" she asked, attempting to block her way.

"Not now Arwen," Eredhel growled and slipped past her. Pushing open the door she paused for a moment, allowing her eyes to adjust to the bright light of the room. The rich smell of paper and ancient wood filled her nose as her eyes searched the room for her father. She saw him standing behind a table, studying a large map of Middle Earth intently. The parchment was old and there were several rips along the edges. Hearing her enter he looked up and smiled in surprise.

"Ah Eredhel, I was just fin-"

"Elladan and Elrohir are already riding for Lórien, they did not go North. You lied." Her voice was steady and she remained calm but there was fire in her eyes.

"Allow me to explain," he said hesitantly. "I didn't want you putting yourself in more danger by accompanying the Fellowship. I was going to tell you the truth then ask you to sail for Valinor with the other elves."

"And what makes you believe I would be willing to do so?"

"Eredhel don't stand there and tell me you are not still suffering. You could sail away, leave that which haunts you behind. Like your mother."

"Do not compare my situation to hers. It's my fault, I should have accompanied her to Lórien." Eredhel's voice cracked and she dropped her gaze to the floor. Her father moved towards her and placed a warm hand on her arm.

"No, it is not dear one. You did all you possibly could. You and your brothers rescued her. I did not know you still carried this guilt on your shoulders. If you sailed you could find peace with this grief."

"I am perfectly capable of handling the situation. You would have me desert them in their greatest time of need!" An edge crept into her voice but she kept her emotions under control.

"The war of men is not ours to fight in. There is nothing left for you here," said Lord Elrond sadly.

"My entire life is here! I will not sail for the Undying Lands until the future of Middle Earth has been decided," she said through clenched teeth.

"What hope is there for victory? Once the elves are gone who will fight? The dwarves hide in their mountains, concerned not with the troubles of those above ground. They cannot be counted on for aid," he snapped, becoming frustrated.

"The fate of Middle Earth rests in the hands of men."

"Men are strong but their hearts are easily corrupted by their lust for power. You know this!" His voice was raised now.

"You will abandon them while they would give their lives to protect their people," she exclaimed. "There is still strength and honor in men! Long ago you held an alliance and fought together."

"Yes! They will give their lives and they will lose them! The old alliances are no more, they were washed away by the sea of time." Elrond closed his eyes briefly, a grimace deepening the lines in his face.

"What of Aragorn? Will you not help him on the path that is laid out before him?" Eredhel glared at her father, her eyes burning into his.

"Aragorn is only one man and he alone cannot defeat the army that Sauron has created. He chose a path of solitude long ago, much like yourself. Eredhel you belong with your people!" he insisted.

"My choices are my own. You know why I left." She turned away from him, "I believe Middle Earth can be saved and as long as I draw breath I will fight for it!"

"I will not let you die in the battle of men!" Elrond said, his voice raised in anger. "You especially know what the consequences could be." It was unlike him to become irate but the thought of losing her terrified him.

"I am willing to risk the consequences for the chance of victory, I will not turn a blind eye! Will you not fight for peace, for the freedom of Aragorn's kin?"

"This fight is theirs alone. The elves cannot help the race of men." Fury boiled up in her chest at his words and another vision flashed across her mind. This one was clearer and she stumbled against a wall. The Fellowship was standing on a mountain, the wind howling around them. Legolas stood higher than the rest looking ahead of his companions. Suddenly a great rumble shook the rock and snow came cascading down around them. The elf gave a shout and was buried beneath the ice and snow. Eredhel drew a ragged breath and pressed a cool hand to her forehead. "You saw something?" Her father's voice was gentler now, concern evident in his features.

"I saw the Fellowship," she said bitterly.

"I simply wanted to protect you."

"That does not make it right." She twisted away and headed for the door

"Where are you going?" demanded Lord Elrond.

"I am going to find them," she said. Her father's eyes flashed angrily and she saw his hands clench in the same way hers had. She grimly noticed the shared habit and her face softened slightly. They rarely fought and when they did it was always for the same reason. They were both so alike, so strong, wise and determined. Elrond sighed, twisting the ring on his finger.

"So be it." Eredhel's heart ached at his words but she said no more and continued out into the hall. She hastily made her way to her room and threw open the door. Arwen was waiting for her, sitting on the couch next to the window. She watched in silence as Eredhel began to gather her things. She had already been preparing for the ride to Lórien so her food, bandages and a few herbs were already packed. She closed the bag and tossed it on the couch next to her sister. Fastening her dark green cloak around her shoulders she then tied up her black arm bracers. Her leather boots stood in the corner and she pulled them on. They hit her mid-calf and fit her feet perfectly from years of wear. Slipping her small white blade into the right one, Eredhel took a few steps to ensure it did not hinder any movement. Finally she grabbed her belt, bow, quiver and long knife from beneath her bed. Buckling the belt at her waist, she sheathed her knife then strapped the quiver to her back. She was tucking her silver necklace into her shirt when Arwen finally spoke.

"You're leaving."

"Father lied. Had he not asked a favor of me, I would have left with the company. I can hardly stay here while they risk their lives," said Eredhel. She quickly ran her fingers through her hair then braided it back from her face.

"So you're going to try to find the Fellowship," sighed Arwen.

"I was there when they discussed the route. It won't be difficult to track them," explained Eredhel as she grabbed her bow.

"Be careful," said Arwen softly.

"Do not fear, I will return," Eredhel promised.

"Namárië muinthel. (Farewell sister.)" Eredhel nodded and adjusting the strap of her bag, headed through the door. The wind had picked up and it howled in her ears as she walked towards the stables. The sky was nearly black and she felt the first rain drops fall onto her face. Pulling up her hood, she arrived at the long, low building. She wasn't surprised to see Glorfindel standing next to Berenoch's stall, a small smile on his face.

"I take it you're not journeying to the Golden Wood," he said.

"You are correct," confirmed Eredhel as she opened the paneled door and led the black horse out into the hall. Glorfindel followed behind her with a saddle. Although Elves usually rode bare back, it wasn't unusual for them to use the more comfortable gear for long journeys. He started to fit on the saddle but Eredhel stopped him.

"I will not need it. The ride shouldn't be more than a few days and once I catch up to them I will be going on foot," she explained.

"I see." He laid it over a rail, "I wanted to speak with you before you left."

"From one so venerable and wise, any council would be welcome," said Eredhel.

"I am not going to advise you on the Nazgûl or the evil beasts that now roam the land. You have wandered wide and seen more than your share of them but not all enemies are so clearly marked." Glorfindel ran a hand through his golden hair, "The Ring is powerful and Sauron's reach is greatly lengthened with the help of Isengard. Be watchful of your companions for all of Saruman's power will be put towards getting the Ring and it would be a far easier task if those in the Fellowship were to turn against each other," he warned.

"It will test all of them" she said gravely.

"And there is no guarantee that they will pass." He gazed past her for a moment, lost in thought.

"The coming months will be dark," Eredhel sighed and looked at the ground. Glorfindel placed a finger under her chin and she looked up at him.

"You carry a great burden Varyor. You go to aid those on a mission who many would deem folly. All these years I have been your friend and now you must protect those who need it most. Sevi estel, in elenath gi (Have hope, the stars will watch over you,)" he murmured.

"Na lû e-govaned vîn, (Until we next meet,)" said Eredhel. She turned and swung onto Berenoch's back then urged the horse forward, out into the rain. It poured down as she rode towards the Eastern Gate. She galloped along the trail, slowly ascending to the moor above. Once she made it to the high ground the wind whipped her cloak around her as it howled in her ears. She leaned low over Berenoch's neck and his pace quickened on the open hillside. The ground was soft and soaked with rain but she did not worry about losing the Fellowship's trail. Traces of the men, a dwarf and pony would not easily be washed away. A clap of thunder rumbled through the clouds, drowning out the sound of hoof beats. She would have to ride all through the night and at least all of tomorrow before she caught up with the nine companions. Eredhel could only hope that nothing found them before she did.