JastaElf - Thank you for complimenting my Sindarin. It drives me buggy at
times, but it is fun to do. Elu blushed mightily when he read your note to
him. He, too, hopes to add Nirnaeth to his list of friends. Rock Carriers
Unite!! I think the Black Arrow will fly next chapter or the one after
that. Definitely. Or probably. Glad you are feeling better!!!
Nancing Elf – The rain was indeed a symbol of cleansing for them both. Glad that you caught that! I am so glad that you thought the song was beautiful. It felt right, but I can never tell. And yeah, I liked gruff old Eikenstan's "Ridiculous sentimental Elves." (hands Dwarf a red hanky) And I see that you are looking ahead to how Elu is going to handle Legolas' departure without him. Poor guy! He's not gong to be very happy. He'll need lots of red hankies then I'm afraid. ( hands a bewildered Orc a hanky)
Horus – That was a great quote. I really liked that. Poor sad Jess indeed. Poor kid's not thinking too clearly right now. Might mean trouble. Uh oh.
Ranger – Wow! You guys make me feel so happy with all your compliments on the song! And it will be in the movie! You also are thinking ahead to Legolas leaving with the Fellowship. At this point I am, too, and I think Elu suspects something may happen. Poor Orc. (hands him another hanky.)
alliwantisanelfforchristmas – Aww. I made you cry. That makes me happy! I am sadistic! And yes, Orc/Elf hugging is unusual (ahem! The good kind of hugging anyway.) There are unfortunately a few bumps in the road ahead for Nirnaeth. But there is always hope. Boromir does indeed clean up nicely even if he sleeps with rocks! Gotta love that guy! * sniff sniff * too bad we know what happens to him (author uses a red hanky)
LOTR lover – Yep! Storm warning ahead! Dark clouds are gathering. I like the sons of Denethor right much. LOL They are so much like real sibs, you can't help but identify with them.
Karina – I love your comparison because that pretty well describes the enmity that Nirnaeth feels toward all Orcs. Hope for something better is indeed the theme of these fics whether it started out that way or not. What can I say. I'm an idealist, I guess.
Author's Note – Ahem. Well. I made a mini maybe mistake on Boromir's arrival time. My mistake was looking at the timeline in the back of the book and seeing that he arrived on the 24th of October and I made it that night. But then as I was reading in chapter 11 FOTR I see that Elrond said that he arrived in the grey morning. Hmmm. Well anyhow. Sorry to all you bookverse folk out there. Can't get it right every time I guess.
Another Note – There is a great chunk of the Council meeting below. Went mostly bookverse with it. It is long, but not all of it is contained here. If you want to read the whole thing it is in Fellowship of the Ring Book II Chapter 2 "The Council of Elrond".
Frodo opened his eyes slowly and took a deep breath. The sun was shining, birds were singing. He smiled and pushed the covers back and got out of bed. In no time he and Sam were walking down a path, enjoying the early morning air, gazing at all the peaceful beauty around them. In the distance they could see the Misty Mountains, their snow covered peaks glistening in the pale sunlight. There was a sound of water gurgling in the distance and the quiet roar of the far away falls. All the dangers and worries he had experienced seemed but a distant memory now as he walked beside his friend in this peaceful place. Golden leaves glistened on the trees, stirred by the gentle cool breeze. Frodo smiled and glanced at Sam, who smiled back. He was so happy that Frodo was well that he had spent part of the night just watching him sleep. Young Samwise Gamgee had never been so frightened in his life as he had been keeping the dreadful watch all those nights after the incident at the Ford of Bruinen. He reached out tentatively and touched Frodo's hand. Its warmth flooded him with sheer joy and relief.
As they rounded a turn in the path they found Gandalf and Bilbo deep in conversation. Frodo had been overjoyed to see Bilbo the night before in the Hall of Fire. It had been such a long time since Bilbo had left Bag End on the night of his eleventy-first birthday. He ran to him now and hugged the old Hobbit.
"Hullo! Good morning! Feel ready for the great Council?" He asked, smiling at his young cousin. He was very pleased that Frodo looked so well. He made a mental note to thank Elrond again for what he had done.
"I feel ready for anything." Frodo proclaimed with a smile.
It wasn't long after this that a bell rang. The Council of Elrond was about to begin.
Elu was procrastinating as he and Legolas prepared to go to the Council. Legolas glanced over at him watching as he hunted about for something, just what the Elf wasn't certain. He had his own misgivings about what would be revealed this morning. He sighed, remembering that he would have to tell Aragorn and Gandalf about Smeagol's escape. They would not be happy to hear this piece of news. But at some point he would have to say something to them.
"Come, Elu. We must go."
The Orc looked up and sighed.
"Yes. Let us go. I just wanted to find the little people that I carved for Jessolothrad. I do not remember where I put them."
Legolas sighed and shook his head.
"They are right here, nin mellon." He moved to pick them up from the small table where the Orc had laid them earlier. He held the exquisitely carved figures in his hands. He examined them and marveled at the skill that Elu possessed. One figure was obviously young Jess himself, complete with a miniature harp with strings of fine pale hair that Legolas knew were his own. He had seen the Orc collecting them one day from his comb. The other figure was Nirnaeth. The older Elf was also meticulously carved and it was the face that caught Legolas' attention. It was filled with happiness, something that the Elf did not remember seeing on that face. Wordlessly he handed the Orcs the little people.
"They are wonderful, Elu. I didn't realize that you could carve figures so well. They are very lifelike."
Elu shrugged, blushing.
"I enjoy it, Legolas Elvellon. I hope to be able to give these to him today."
"I'm sure that you will see him later. Come. We cannot be late."
Elu carefully wrapped the figures in cloth and placed them in a small pouch that he carried about his neck.
As they were nearing the porch where the Council was to be held, having joined Silinde, Gonthalion, and Tavor, Erestor met them. His face was grave with a touch of regret.
"Prince Legolas." He inclined his head. "I fear that I must speak with you and Elu."
Legolas glanced at the others, then at the Orc. Elu looked down uncomfortably. They followed Erestor to a small hollow with a bench nestled amidst the hedge of yews.
"I fear that some of the others invited here are not willing to come to the Council unless Elu does not attend. Lord Elrond of course trusts him now, as many of us do. But I fear that some do not." The dark-haired Elf said, his eyes solemn.
Legolas exhaled. He had expected this, but he was still disappointed and annoyed.
"Elu was chosen to come with us by my father. I do not see why –"
"That is alright, Legolas Elvellon. Truly I do not mind."
Legolas turned to him, framing a suitable response. But when he saw the look in Elu's eyes, he swallowed his words. Relief was written clearly on the other's features.
"I – I thought you wanted to come to the Council."
Elu grinned sheepishly.
"I wanted to come with you to Imladris, Legolas Elvellon. I could not stand to be left behind." He shrugged. "I didn't come for the Council meeting. I came to be with you and see this wondrous place."
"But – " Legolas stared at him. Could this be true? Then he shook his head and smiled. Of course it was true. "Very well. But I wish you could be there."
Elu knew the reason for that. He knew that Smeagol's disappearance was bothering Legolas more than he pretended. He saw it as a failure of the trust given to the Mirkwood Elves by Mithrandir himself. And there was Dunadan as well. He would not be at all pleased with this news. He knew that Legolas had not dwelt on this errand much since their arrival, but now that it was time for it to be told he knew that his friend was anxious and disquieted.
Erestor cocked his dark head and stared at them. Then he smiled.
"I have an idea." He said and beckoned for them to follow him.
Boromir followed the slim young Elf that had been sent to escort him to the Council. He glanced down at his travel stained cloak and heavy boots. He looked as though he had just made an arduous journey. : Ah. : He thought with a wry smile. : But I have made an arduous journey. Much more so than the others. Of that I am certain. : He carried himself proudly as they walked down the hedge-lined path. Answers awaited him of that he was certain as well. The sooner he had those answers the sooner he could return home to Gondor. His hand touched his pocket where the white stone lay. A similar stone adorned the silver collar at his neck. He closed his eyes for a moment, calling up the image of his beloved city: the seven levels ringed with walls; the High Court; the Place of the Fountain where the White Tree had once grown; and above it all the gleaming White Tower – the Tower of Ecthelion - the banner of the Stewards snapping at its pinnacle a thousand feet above the surrounding plain.
"Minas Tirith." He breathed, a faint smile touching his lips. Ah, how he could not wait to return.
The Elf showed him to the porch and where he should sit. There were many people already there: Men, Elves, Dwarves. He had never seen such a company gathered together before and he tried not to stare over much.
But when Gandalf led Frodo and Bilbo onto the porch he couldn't help but stare. What were these small beings? He gazed on them in wonder. Yes. Answers surely lay in this place. But many questions as well.
Frodo felt infinitely uncomfortable as Elrond gestured for him to take a seat at his side. He felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment. Bilbo urged him on with a smile and took a seat not far away. Frodo swallowed and sat down. He saw a few familiar faces about him and that comforted him: Glorfindel nodded in his direction and Gloin, whom he had met the night before in the feast, bowed his head and smiled. And of course Strider, seated somewhat apart in his dark clothes. There were many new faces, some that he thought he had glimpsed the night before.
"Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither through greater peril or on an errand more urgent."
And so began the great Council of Elrond. And not all that was spoken and debated in the Council need now be told.
Seated not far away in a hidden corner behind a row of bushes with shiny green leaves was a Hobbit named Samwise Gamgee and his companion of the moment: an Orc named Elu Heneb. Erestor, had seen Sam secret himself there earlier. Amazing that the Hobbit would not let his dear friend out of his sight. So where better to put the Orc that rode all the way here from Mirkwood just to be with his friend. Erestor left them with stern instructions to be quiet or something dreadful would happen to them, suppressing the smile that threatened until he was beyond their sight.
Sam smiled over at Elu, forever grateful to the Orc for what he had done to assist Lord Elrond.
"I see that Bilbo's nephew is doing well."
Sam nodded, peering cautiously through the bushes at Frodo, whom he thought looked extremely uncomfortable.
"Yes. He is. But I still worry about him. I don't know about Mr. Frodo, but I am ready to go home. And I think he is to. I mean he has seen Mr. Bilbo and all. And we've seen the Elves and many things that I wish we hadn't seen. But I miss the Shire and the Gaffer and my garden. I've had enough adventuring."
Elu nodded.
"I am ready to go home as well. I wanted to see this wondrous place, but now I want to see my home again. Legolas and I have a lot to do."
They sat quietly side by side as many things were spoken of. And when Elrond spoke of Sauron and the Rings of Power and the Last Alliance of Men and Elves, Elu leaned forward his mouth open. The Dark Master. He shuddered.
"I remember well the splendor of their banners. It recalled to me the glory of the Elder Days and the hosts of Beleriand, so many great princes and kings were assembled. And yet not so many, nor so fair, as when Thangorodrim was broken, and the Elves deemed that evil was ended for ever, and it was not so."
Thangorodrim. Elu knew that name from his reading. The great three- peaked mountain raised by Melkor and broken when the great dragon Ancalagon fell on it during the Great Battle also called the War of Wrath. The Orc stared at Elrond in astonishment and surprise. Oh, the tales he must know. And oh, the tales he must have experienced himself. He found his already great regard for the Elf Lord increase. After Elrond had finished speaking a tall man stood, a silver collar set with a single white stone shone at his throat. Elu stared out at him. He looked familiar though he did not know why.
The man spoke of Gondor the great kingdom of Men in the south. Elu could see the pride he felt and the love. He spoke of an attack in June and the loss of the eastern half of Osgiliath.
I wish I could see Gondor, the Orc thought. It must be truly a beautiful place. But he knew from the talk that the enemy, his former Master, the Dark Lord Sauron, besieged Gondor.
But then the man spoke of a dream that had come to him and to his brother.
"Seek for the Sword that was broken:
In Imladris it dwells;
There shall be counsels taken
Stronger than Morgul-spells.
There shall be shown a token
That Doom is near at hand,
For Isildur's Bane shall waken,
And the Halfling forth shall stand."
The man spoke of his father, Denethor, Lord of Minas Tirith and how he had said that Imladris was of old the name among the Elves of a far northern dale, where Elrond Halfelven dwelt. And so he had come north seeking answers, riding for many months to get here.
Elrond gazed at him, but it was Aragorn that suddenly stood.
"And here in the house of Elrond more shall be made clear to you." He drew his sword and cast it onto the table before Elrond. Elu noted with surprise that the blade was broken in two. "Here is the Sword that was Broken!"
The man of Gondor gazed in wonder and amazement at the sword and its bearer.
"And who are you, and what have you to do with Minas Tirith?"
Elu found himself staring at the Ranger he had met so many years ago near Emyn Mor Esgal. The heir of Isildur? He gaped in astonishment at Aragorn. But, yes, as he studied the craggy face, he could see it. And he had seen flashes of it before though he knew it not.
Many things were indeed revealed and there were moments of tension between the man of Gondor and Aragorn. Bilbo told his story, much to his own delight and Elu stared at his little friend in amazement. Bilbo's eyes were bright and he gestured expressively, glancing at Gandalf and Gloin on occasion to elicit nods of agreement about particular statements. He even winked at Legolas once when telling of his time in the Hall of the Wood Elf King. Legolas smiled and shook his head in remembered amusement, but the Dwarves glared openly at the Elf, their own time there not so fondly remembered. But finally Elrond stopped Bilbo from continuing on into his eleventy-first birthday party and subsequent disappearance from the Shire by raising one hand, a smile on his lips.
"Well, told my friend, but that is enough at this time. For the moment it suffices to know that the Ring passed to Frodo, your Heir. Let him now speak."
Sam sat up, peering intently through the bushes as Frodo shifted in his seat and reluctantly told his own tale.
At last Frodo finished, not quite able to repress the sigh of relief that escaped him. He didn't find the same joy as Bilbo did when it came to telling his own adventures.
"Not bad." Bilbo said. "You would have made a good story of it, if they hadn't kept on interrupting. I tried to make a few notes, but we shall have to go over it all again together sometime if I am to write it up. There are whole chapters of stuff before you ever got here!"
Frodo smiled wearily.
"Yes, it made quite a long tale. But the story still does not seem complete to me. I still want to know a good deal," He turned to the Istari. "Especially about Gandalf."
Then Gandalf did speak at quite some length about his own search for answers and how they eventually lead him to Gondor's libraries and the discovery of Isildur's scroll. He disclosed all that had been written therein and of the test of fire.
"Upon this very ring which you have here seen held aloft, round and unadorned, the letters that Isildur reported may still be read, if one has the strength of will to set the golden thing in the fire a while. That I have done, and this I have read:
Ash nazg durbatuluk, ash nazg gimbatul, ash nazg thrakatuluk
Agh burzum-ishi kimpatul."
At that moment a grey cloud passed over the sun, darkening the porch where they were assemble. Everyone felt a chill and trembled, the Elves clapped their hands over their ears.
"Never before has any voice dared to utter words of that tongue in Imladris, Gandalf the Grey." Elrond said in a low voice.
Legolas cringed, clamping his teeth together. The last time he had heard the Black Speech was in Nouri (June) when Orcs had captured him and three of Smeagol's guards.
Smeagol…
When Gandalf had mentioned the creature earlier he had to quickly school his features to neutrality. But when Aragorn told of how he had despaired of ever finding Gollum and turned homeward only to come unexpectedly on the creature's trail and finally to the Dead Marshes where he captured Gollum, Legolas brows knit and his hands tightened on the chair's arms.
: Ai, Estel. I am sorry…I need to tell you…tell you of our failure to keep him. :
But Aragorn didn't hear his thoughts as he continued to speak.
"…until he was tamed by lack of drink and food, driving him ever towards Mirkwood. I brought him there at last and gave him to the Elves…" The Ranger's eyes slid to Legolas and he smiled as he spoke. "For my part I hope never to look upon him again; but Gandalf came and endured long speech with him."
Legolas could not in all honesty return the smile, but his lips twitched and Aragorn was satisfied and turned back to Gandalf who spoke now.
"Know also, my friends that I learned more yet from Gollum. He was loathe to speak and his tale was unclear, but it is beyond all doubt that he went to Mordor, and there all that he knew was forced from him…"
As the Istari continued to speak Legolas remembered how Smeagol would cry out in his sleep in fear and remembered pain. He remembered his own nightmares after his imprisonment and felt a great sympathy for the wretched creature tormented in Mordor.
Aragorn was speaking again to the man of Gondor. Of Smeagol.
"…Still I for one am glad that he is safely kept by the watchful Elves of Mirkwood." The Ranger turned his eyes once more to Legolas.
Gonthalion muttered something beneath his breath and slid his eyes to his prince.
"His malice is great." Aragorn continued. "And gives him great strength hardly to be believed in one so lean and withered. He could work much mischief still, if he were free."
Legolas felt the breath squeeze from his lungs.
: I must tell him. : He thought desperately, his eyes widening. : I need to tell them…now. Ai, if only we had known more of this! :
"And I do not doubt that he was allowed to leave Mordor on some evil errand."
Legolas suddenly pushed himself up, his eyes turned to Aragorn, filled with anguish.
"Alas! Alas! The tidings that I was sent to bring must now be told."
All eyes turned toward him, but it was only the Ranger's and the Wizard's that he felt.
"They are not good." He continued. "But only here have I learned how evil they may seem to this company." He pause, his gaze touching Aragorn, then dropping to the ground, his eyes fastening onto a small pile of golden leaves on the stones. "Smeagol, who is now called Gollum, has escaped."
Elu glanced in sympathy at his friend. He knew how hard this admission had been and how keenly he did not want to disappoint Dunadan and Mithrandir.
"Escaped?" Aragorn stared over at him in dismay. "That is ill news indeed. We shall rue it bitterly, I fear. How came the folk of Thranduil to fail in their trust?"
The words hurt, but Legolas kept his shoulders back, his posture straight. He hoped that the pain he felt was hidden as he raised his eyes to his friend.
"Not through lack of watchfulness, but perhaps through over- kindliness." He could see the faces of the six that had been with Smeagol that night. Lindir, who had befriended the creature; Cuil and Calenthar; Meren, Tanglinna, and Brethil. He closed his eyes briefly at the pain of loss that he still felt so deeply. Tavor glanced up at him and gently touched his hand. Brethil had been a dear friend to them both and the loss was grievous.
"No bell, nin caun." [Be strong, my prince.] Gonthalion murmured, feeling resentful that such raw emotions should be touched on now.
Elu rose to his knees and peered at Legolas, his own heart aching for his friend.
"We fear that the prisoner had aid from others, and that more is known of our doings than we could wish." His eyes went from Aragorn to Mithrandir, begging for understanding. "We guarded this creature day and night, at Gandalf's bidding, much though we wearied of the task. But Gandalf bade us hope still for his cure, and we had not the heart to keep him ever in dungeons under the earth, where he would fall back into his old black thoughts."
Suddenly Gloin snorted, his white forked beard bristling with indignation. He turned in his seat to glare at Mirkwood's prince.
"You were less tender to me!' He growled, his eyes flashing. Beside him, Gimli grinned with satisfaction, his eyes on the Elf as well.
Bilbo shook his white head, a rueful smile on his lips. Dwarves had very long memories and were very good at holding grudges.
Legolas turned to glare at the Dwarves, his eyes including the son as well as the father.
"Now come!" Gandalf interjected, allowing his surprise at Legolas news to be pushed aside for the moment. After all Wizards were never ruffled, even by unexpected tidings. "Pray do not interrupt, my good Gloin. That was a regrettable misunderstanding –"
"Misunderstanding, indeed." The old Dwarf snorted, folding his arms across his ample chest.
"Long set right." Gandalf said gruffly, with a glance at the two. "If all the grievances that stand between Elves and Dwarves are to be brought up here, we may as well abandon this Council."
Gloin scowled and muttered, but then he rose and bowed. When he was seated again. Legolas drew a breath and continued at the nod from Gandalf.
"In the days of fair weather we led Gollum through the woods; and there was a high tree standing alone far from the others which he liked to climb." The image of himself, Brethil and Lindir teaching Smeagol to climb Beleg Doron filled his mind. That had been a happier time, before he had known about Elu's fate in Dol Guldur. Though perhaps a better use of it could have been found than teaching Smeagol to climb. "Often we let him mount up to the highest branches until he felt the free wind; but we set a guard at the tree's foot. One day he refused to come down." Legolas could hear Lindir's song that he used to coax Smeagol down from the tree. "The guards had no mind to climb after him: he had learned the trick of clinging to boughs with his feet as well as his hands, so they sat by the tree far into the night." He paused swallowing. The handful that knew the story of that night in Mirkwood gazed sympathetically at him. And behind the bushes Elu slumped to the ground, his head in his hands. Sam gently lay a hand on his arm.
"It was that very night of summer, yet moonless – and starless, that- that Orcs came upon us at unawares." He could hear the clash of weapons, the Orcs' guttural voices, his father's look of disgust as he cleansed black blood from his hands. "We drove them off after sometime; they were many and fierce, but they came from over the mountains, and were unused to the woods. When the battle was over we found that Smeagol – Gollum – was gone and his guards were slain – "He drew a painful breath. : Ai, Brethil! : "Or taken." He paused only slightly, not letting his emotions get the better of him. "It then seemed plain to us that the attack had been made for his rescue, and that he knew of it before hand. How that was contrived we cannot guess; but Smeagol – Gollum – is cunning, and the spies of the Enemy are many. The dark things that were driven out in the year of the Dragon's fall have returned in greater numbers, and Mirkwood is again an evil place, save where our realm is maintained. We have failed to capture Gollum." He said, looking once more to Aragorn. "We came on his trail among those of many Orcs, and it plunged deep into the Forest, going south. But ere long it escaped our skill, and we dared not continue the hunt; for we were drawing night to Dol Guldur, and that is still a very evil place." His eyes reflected his sorrow only too well. "We do not go that way."
Aragorn smiled at him tenderly and nodded.
Legolas felt a wave of relief rush though him. He had been afraid that Estel would be very displeased with their failure to keep Gollum. He returned the smile.
"Well, well." Gandalf said, quietly. "He is gone. We have no time to seek for him again. He must do what he will. But he may play a part yet that neither he nor Sauron have foreseen."
As Legolas sat down, he noticed the look of apprehension that crossed Frodo's face at this pronouncement. But he breathed a sigh of relief. He had told them. Gonthalion's eyes were shining with a fierce pride and he patted his prince's arm.
"Well done, nin caun. Your father would be proud."
Legolas smiled slightly at him and turned his attention to Mithrandir who was speaking of the unforeseen treachery of Saruman and his own imprisonment and rescue by Gwaihir the Windlord, swiftest of the Great Eagles. He spoke of Rohan and the king there who would not heed his warnings, but bade him take a horse and be gone. And gone he was to Hobbiton in search of Frodo. Then to Buckland and Bree following the Hobbits' trail. At last to Weathertop where he had been besieged by Black Riders in the old Ring of Amon Sul. He had arrived at Rivendell only three days before the Hobbits.
"Well, the Tale is now told, from first to last. Here we all are," His blue eyes swept about the porch taking them all in. "And here is the Ring. But we have not yet come any nearer to our purpose. What shall we do with it?"
While the fate of the Ring was being decided on the porch at one end of Rivendell, a small child was hastily preparing to take his own fate in hand.
Jessolothrad threw some clothes into a pack, along with a water bottle, some cloth wrapped bread, and cheese. He wrapped the little horse that Elu had given him carefully in the silk and tucked it gently between the clothing. He fastened the pack and checked the harp, which was safely stowed in its case by the door.
He glanced about the room that had been their home for so long to make certain that he had forgotten anything that he would need for the journey. His eyes fell on the neatly written letter to his father. Tears burned in his eyes and he turned away, rubbing an impatient hand over them. He grabbed up his pack and harp and hurried from the room before his resolve crumbled. He checked the hall to make certain that no one was about. He moved silently down the hall and headed for the stables. He knew that many of the visitors to Rivendell were at Lord Elrond's Council and there was hardly anyone about. And those he avoided easily.
The scent of horses reached his nose and he smiled. He loved the way they smelled. Lailaith placed her head over the stall door and whinnied happily when she saw him. Jess' smile widened and he stroked her forehead, motioning with his other hand.
He lay the pack and harp case on the floor and let Lailaith out of her stall. He stroked her humming softly. Then he slung the pack and case onto his back and mounted.
Faron, his father's horse watched, snorting softly. Jess gazed sadly at him and waved, more tears threatening in his eyes. He gently kicked Lailaith's sides and they trotted out of the stable, heading east.
Nancing Elf – The rain was indeed a symbol of cleansing for them both. Glad that you caught that! I am so glad that you thought the song was beautiful. It felt right, but I can never tell. And yeah, I liked gruff old Eikenstan's "Ridiculous sentimental Elves." (hands Dwarf a red hanky) And I see that you are looking ahead to how Elu is going to handle Legolas' departure without him. Poor guy! He's not gong to be very happy. He'll need lots of red hankies then I'm afraid. ( hands a bewildered Orc a hanky)
Horus – That was a great quote. I really liked that. Poor sad Jess indeed. Poor kid's not thinking too clearly right now. Might mean trouble. Uh oh.
Ranger – Wow! You guys make me feel so happy with all your compliments on the song! And it will be in the movie! You also are thinking ahead to Legolas leaving with the Fellowship. At this point I am, too, and I think Elu suspects something may happen. Poor Orc. (hands him another hanky.)
alliwantisanelfforchristmas – Aww. I made you cry. That makes me happy! I am sadistic! And yes, Orc/Elf hugging is unusual (ahem! The good kind of hugging anyway.) There are unfortunately a few bumps in the road ahead for Nirnaeth. But there is always hope. Boromir does indeed clean up nicely even if he sleeps with rocks! Gotta love that guy! * sniff sniff * too bad we know what happens to him (author uses a red hanky)
LOTR lover – Yep! Storm warning ahead! Dark clouds are gathering. I like the sons of Denethor right much. LOL They are so much like real sibs, you can't help but identify with them.
Karina – I love your comparison because that pretty well describes the enmity that Nirnaeth feels toward all Orcs. Hope for something better is indeed the theme of these fics whether it started out that way or not. What can I say. I'm an idealist, I guess.
Author's Note – Ahem. Well. I made a mini maybe mistake on Boromir's arrival time. My mistake was looking at the timeline in the back of the book and seeing that he arrived on the 24th of October and I made it that night. But then as I was reading in chapter 11 FOTR I see that Elrond said that he arrived in the grey morning. Hmmm. Well anyhow. Sorry to all you bookverse folk out there. Can't get it right every time I guess.
Another Note – There is a great chunk of the Council meeting below. Went mostly bookverse with it. It is long, but not all of it is contained here. If you want to read the whole thing it is in Fellowship of the Ring Book II Chapter 2 "The Council of Elrond".
Frodo opened his eyes slowly and took a deep breath. The sun was shining, birds were singing. He smiled and pushed the covers back and got out of bed. In no time he and Sam were walking down a path, enjoying the early morning air, gazing at all the peaceful beauty around them. In the distance they could see the Misty Mountains, their snow covered peaks glistening in the pale sunlight. There was a sound of water gurgling in the distance and the quiet roar of the far away falls. All the dangers and worries he had experienced seemed but a distant memory now as he walked beside his friend in this peaceful place. Golden leaves glistened on the trees, stirred by the gentle cool breeze. Frodo smiled and glanced at Sam, who smiled back. He was so happy that Frodo was well that he had spent part of the night just watching him sleep. Young Samwise Gamgee had never been so frightened in his life as he had been keeping the dreadful watch all those nights after the incident at the Ford of Bruinen. He reached out tentatively and touched Frodo's hand. Its warmth flooded him with sheer joy and relief.
As they rounded a turn in the path they found Gandalf and Bilbo deep in conversation. Frodo had been overjoyed to see Bilbo the night before in the Hall of Fire. It had been such a long time since Bilbo had left Bag End on the night of his eleventy-first birthday. He ran to him now and hugged the old Hobbit.
"Hullo! Good morning! Feel ready for the great Council?" He asked, smiling at his young cousin. He was very pleased that Frodo looked so well. He made a mental note to thank Elrond again for what he had done.
"I feel ready for anything." Frodo proclaimed with a smile.
It wasn't long after this that a bell rang. The Council of Elrond was about to begin.
Elu was procrastinating as he and Legolas prepared to go to the Council. Legolas glanced over at him watching as he hunted about for something, just what the Elf wasn't certain. He had his own misgivings about what would be revealed this morning. He sighed, remembering that he would have to tell Aragorn and Gandalf about Smeagol's escape. They would not be happy to hear this piece of news. But at some point he would have to say something to them.
"Come, Elu. We must go."
The Orc looked up and sighed.
"Yes. Let us go. I just wanted to find the little people that I carved for Jessolothrad. I do not remember where I put them."
Legolas sighed and shook his head.
"They are right here, nin mellon." He moved to pick them up from the small table where the Orc had laid them earlier. He held the exquisitely carved figures in his hands. He examined them and marveled at the skill that Elu possessed. One figure was obviously young Jess himself, complete with a miniature harp with strings of fine pale hair that Legolas knew were his own. He had seen the Orc collecting them one day from his comb. The other figure was Nirnaeth. The older Elf was also meticulously carved and it was the face that caught Legolas' attention. It was filled with happiness, something that the Elf did not remember seeing on that face. Wordlessly he handed the Orcs the little people.
"They are wonderful, Elu. I didn't realize that you could carve figures so well. They are very lifelike."
Elu shrugged, blushing.
"I enjoy it, Legolas Elvellon. I hope to be able to give these to him today."
"I'm sure that you will see him later. Come. We cannot be late."
Elu carefully wrapped the figures in cloth and placed them in a small pouch that he carried about his neck.
As they were nearing the porch where the Council was to be held, having joined Silinde, Gonthalion, and Tavor, Erestor met them. His face was grave with a touch of regret.
"Prince Legolas." He inclined his head. "I fear that I must speak with you and Elu."
Legolas glanced at the others, then at the Orc. Elu looked down uncomfortably. They followed Erestor to a small hollow with a bench nestled amidst the hedge of yews.
"I fear that some of the others invited here are not willing to come to the Council unless Elu does not attend. Lord Elrond of course trusts him now, as many of us do. But I fear that some do not." The dark-haired Elf said, his eyes solemn.
Legolas exhaled. He had expected this, but he was still disappointed and annoyed.
"Elu was chosen to come with us by my father. I do not see why –"
"That is alright, Legolas Elvellon. Truly I do not mind."
Legolas turned to him, framing a suitable response. But when he saw the look in Elu's eyes, he swallowed his words. Relief was written clearly on the other's features.
"I – I thought you wanted to come to the Council."
Elu grinned sheepishly.
"I wanted to come with you to Imladris, Legolas Elvellon. I could not stand to be left behind." He shrugged. "I didn't come for the Council meeting. I came to be with you and see this wondrous place."
"But – " Legolas stared at him. Could this be true? Then he shook his head and smiled. Of course it was true. "Very well. But I wish you could be there."
Elu knew the reason for that. He knew that Smeagol's disappearance was bothering Legolas more than he pretended. He saw it as a failure of the trust given to the Mirkwood Elves by Mithrandir himself. And there was Dunadan as well. He would not be at all pleased with this news. He knew that Legolas had not dwelt on this errand much since their arrival, but now that it was time for it to be told he knew that his friend was anxious and disquieted.
Erestor cocked his dark head and stared at them. Then he smiled.
"I have an idea." He said and beckoned for them to follow him.
Boromir followed the slim young Elf that had been sent to escort him to the Council. He glanced down at his travel stained cloak and heavy boots. He looked as though he had just made an arduous journey. : Ah. : He thought with a wry smile. : But I have made an arduous journey. Much more so than the others. Of that I am certain. : He carried himself proudly as they walked down the hedge-lined path. Answers awaited him of that he was certain as well. The sooner he had those answers the sooner he could return home to Gondor. His hand touched his pocket where the white stone lay. A similar stone adorned the silver collar at his neck. He closed his eyes for a moment, calling up the image of his beloved city: the seven levels ringed with walls; the High Court; the Place of the Fountain where the White Tree had once grown; and above it all the gleaming White Tower – the Tower of Ecthelion - the banner of the Stewards snapping at its pinnacle a thousand feet above the surrounding plain.
"Minas Tirith." He breathed, a faint smile touching his lips. Ah, how he could not wait to return.
The Elf showed him to the porch and where he should sit. There were many people already there: Men, Elves, Dwarves. He had never seen such a company gathered together before and he tried not to stare over much.
But when Gandalf led Frodo and Bilbo onto the porch he couldn't help but stare. What were these small beings? He gazed on them in wonder. Yes. Answers surely lay in this place. But many questions as well.
Frodo felt infinitely uncomfortable as Elrond gestured for him to take a seat at his side. He felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment. Bilbo urged him on with a smile and took a seat not far away. Frodo swallowed and sat down. He saw a few familiar faces about him and that comforted him: Glorfindel nodded in his direction and Gloin, whom he had met the night before in the feast, bowed his head and smiled. And of course Strider, seated somewhat apart in his dark clothes. There were many new faces, some that he thought he had glimpsed the night before.
"Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither through greater peril or on an errand more urgent."
And so began the great Council of Elrond. And not all that was spoken and debated in the Council need now be told.
Seated not far away in a hidden corner behind a row of bushes with shiny green leaves was a Hobbit named Samwise Gamgee and his companion of the moment: an Orc named Elu Heneb. Erestor, had seen Sam secret himself there earlier. Amazing that the Hobbit would not let his dear friend out of his sight. So where better to put the Orc that rode all the way here from Mirkwood just to be with his friend. Erestor left them with stern instructions to be quiet or something dreadful would happen to them, suppressing the smile that threatened until he was beyond their sight.
Sam smiled over at Elu, forever grateful to the Orc for what he had done to assist Lord Elrond.
"I see that Bilbo's nephew is doing well."
Sam nodded, peering cautiously through the bushes at Frodo, whom he thought looked extremely uncomfortable.
"Yes. He is. But I still worry about him. I don't know about Mr. Frodo, but I am ready to go home. And I think he is to. I mean he has seen Mr. Bilbo and all. And we've seen the Elves and many things that I wish we hadn't seen. But I miss the Shire and the Gaffer and my garden. I've had enough adventuring."
Elu nodded.
"I am ready to go home as well. I wanted to see this wondrous place, but now I want to see my home again. Legolas and I have a lot to do."
They sat quietly side by side as many things were spoken of. And when Elrond spoke of Sauron and the Rings of Power and the Last Alliance of Men and Elves, Elu leaned forward his mouth open. The Dark Master. He shuddered.
"I remember well the splendor of their banners. It recalled to me the glory of the Elder Days and the hosts of Beleriand, so many great princes and kings were assembled. And yet not so many, nor so fair, as when Thangorodrim was broken, and the Elves deemed that evil was ended for ever, and it was not so."
Thangorodrim. Elu knew that name from his reading. The great three- peaked mountain raised by Melkor and broken when the great dragon Ancalagon fell on it during the Great Battle also called the War of Wrath. The Orc stared at Elrond in astonishment and surprise. Oh, the tales he must know. And oh, the tales he must have experienced himself. He found his already great regard for the Elf Lord increase. After Elrond had finished speaking a tall man stood, a silver collar set with a single white stone shone at his throat. Elu stared out at him. He looked familiar though he did not know why.
The man spoke of Gondor the great kingdom of Men in the south. Elu could see the pride he felt and the love. He spoke of an attack in June and the loss of the eastern half of Osgiliath.
I wish I could see Gondor, the Orc thought. It must be truly a beautiful place. But he knew from the talk that the enemy, his former Master, the Dark Lord Sauron, besieged Gondor.
But then the man spoke of a dream that had come to him and to his brother.
"Seek for the Sword that was broken:
In Imladris it dwells;
There shall be counsels taken
Stronger than Morgul-spells.
There shall be shown a token
That Doom is near at hand,
For Isildur's Bane shall waken,
And the Halfling forth shall stand."
The man spoke of his father, Denethor, Lord of Minas Tirith and how he had said that Imladris was of old the name among the Elves of a far northern dale, where Elrond Halfelven dwelt. And so he had come north seeking answers, riding for many months to get here.
Elrond gazed at him, but it was Aragorn that suddenly stood.
"And here in the house of Elrond more shall be made clear to you." He drew his sword and cast it onto the table before Elrond. Elu noted with surprise that the blade was broken in two. "Here is the Sword that was Broken!"
The man of Gondor gazed in wonder and amazement at the sword and its bearer.
"And who are you, and what have you to do with Minas Tirith?"
Elu found himself staring at the Ranger he had met so many years ago near Emyn Mor Esgal. The heir of Isildur? He gaped in astonishment at Aragorn. But, yes, as he studied the craggy face, he could see it. And he had seen flashes of it before though he knew it not.
Many things were indeed revealed and there were moments of tension between the man of Gondor and Aragorn. Bilbo told his story, much to his own delight and Elu stared at his little friend in amazement. Bilbo's eyes were bright and he gestured expressively, glancing at Gandalf and Gloin on occasion to elicit nods of agreement about particular statements. He even winked at Legolas once when telling of his time in the Hall of the Wood Elf King. Legolas smiled and shook his head in remembered amusement, but the Dwarves glared openly at the Elf, their own time there not so fondly remembered. But finally Elrond stopped Bilbo from continuing on into his eleventy-first birthday party and subsequent disappearance from the Shire by raising one hand, a smile on his lips.
"Well, told my friend, but that is enough at this time. For the moment it suffices to know that the Ring passed to Frodo, your Heir. Let him now speak."
Sam sat up, peering intently through the bushes as Frodo shifted in his seat and reluctantly told his own tale.
At last Frodo finished, not quite able to repress the sigh of relief that escaped him. He didn't find the same joy as Bilbo did when it came to telling his own adventures.
"Not bad." Bilbo said. "You would have made a good story of it, if they hadn't kept on interrupting. I tried to make a few notes, but we shall have to go over it all again together sometime if I am to write it up. There are whole chapters of stuff before you ever got here!"
Frodo smiled wearily.
"Yes, it made quite a long tale. But the story still does not seem complete to me. I still want to know a good deal," He turned to the Istari. "Especially about Gandalf."
Then Gandalf did speak at quite some length about his own search for answers and how they eventually lead him to Gondor's libraries and the discovery of Isildur's scroll. He disclosed all that had been written therein and of the test of fire.
"Upon this very ring which you have here seen held aloft, round and unadorned, the letters that Isildur reported may still be read, if one has the strength of will to set the golden thing in the fire a while. That I have done, and this I have read:
Ash nazg durbatuluk, ash nazg gimbatul, ash nazg thrakatuluk
Agh burzum-ishi kimpatul."
At that moment a grey cloud passed over the sun, darkening the porch where they were assemble. Everyone felt a chill and trembled, the Elves clapped their hands over their ears.
"Never before has any voice dared to utter words of that tongue in Imladris, Gandalf the Grey." Elrond said in a low voice.
Legolas cringed, clamping his teeth together. The last time he had heard the Black Speech was in Nouri (June) when Orcs had captured him and three of Smeagol's guards.
Smeagol…
When Gandalf had mentioned the creature earlier he had to quickly school his features to neutrality. But when Aragorn told of how he had despaired of ever finding Gollum and turned homeward only to come unexpectedly on the creature's trail and finally to the Dead Marshes where he captured Gollum, Legolas brows knit and his hands tightened on the chair's arms.
: Ai, Estel. I am sorry…I need to tell you…tell you of our failure to keep him. :
But Aragorn didn't hear his thoughts as he continued to speak.
"…until he was tamed by lack of drink and food, driving him ever towards Mirkwood. I brought him there at last and gave him to the Elves…" The Ranger's eyes slid to Legolas and he smiled as he spoke. "For my part I hope never to look upon him again; but Gandalf came and endured long speech with him."
Legolas could not in all honesty return the smile, but his lips twitched and Aragorn was satisfied and turned back to Gandalf who spoke now.
"Know also, my friends that I learned more yet from Gollum. He was loathe to speak and his tale was unclear, but it is beyond all doubt that he went to Mordor, and there all that he knew was forced from him…"
As the Istari continued to speak Legolas remembered how Smeagol would cry out in his sleep in fear and remembered pain. He remembered his own nightmares after his imprisonment and felt a great sympathy for the wretched creature tormented in Mordor.
Aragorn was speaking again to the man of Gondor. Of Smeagol.
"…Still I for one am glad that he is safely kept by the watchful Elves of Mirkwood." The Ranger turned his eyes once more to Legolas.
Gonthalion muttered something beneath his breath and slid his eyes to his prince.
"His malice is great." Aragorn continued. "And gives him great strength hardly to be believed in one so lean and withered. He could work much mischief still, if he were free."
Legolas felt the breath squeeze from his lungs.
: I must tell him. : He thought desperately, his eyes widening. : I need to tell them…now. Ai, if only we had known more of this! :
"And I do not doubt that he was allowed to leave Mordor on some evil errand."
Legolas suddenly pushed himself up, his eyes turned to Aragorn, filled with anguish.
"Alas! Alas! The tidings that I was sent to bring must now be told."
All eyes turned toward him, but it was only the Ranger's and the Wizard's that he felt.
"They are not good." He continued. "But only here have I learned how evil they may seem to this company." He pause, his gaze touching Aragorn, then dropping to the ground, his eyes fastening onto a small pile of golden leaves on the stones. "Smeagol, who is now called Gollum, has escaped."
Elu glanced in sympathy at his friend. He knew how hard this admission had been and how keenly he did not want to disappoint Dunadan and Mithrandir.
"Escaped?" Aragorn stared over at him in dismay. "That is ill news indeed. We shall rue it bitterly, I fear. How came the folk of Thranduil to fail in their trust?"
The words hurt, but Legolas kept his shoulders back, his posture straight. He hoped that the pain he felt was hidden as he raised his eyes to his friend.
"Not through lack of watchfulness, but perhaps through over- kindliness." He could see the faces of the six that had been with Smeagol that night. Lindir, who had befriended the creature; Cuil and Calenthar; Meren, Tanglinna, and Brethil. He closed his eyes briefly at the pain of loss that he still felt so deeply. Tavor glanced up at him and gently touched his hand. Brethil had been a dear friend to them both and the loss was grievous.
"No bell, nin caun." [Be strong, my prince.] Gonthalion murmured, feeling resentful that such raw emotions should be touched on now.
Elu rose to his knees and peered at Legolas, his own heart aching for his friend.
"We fear that the prisoner had aid from others, and that more is known of our doings than we could wish." His eyes went from Aragorn to Mithrandir, begging for understanding. "We guarded this creature day and night, at Gandalf's bidding, much though we wearied of the task. But Gandalf bade us hope still for his cure, and we had not the heart to keep him ever in dungeons under the earth, where he would fall back into his old black thoughts."
Suddenly Gloin snorted, his white forked beard bristling with indignation. He turned in his seat to glare at Mirkwood's prince.
"You were less tender to me!' He growled, his eyes flashing. Beside him, Gimli grinned with satisfaction, his eyes on the Elf as well.
Bilbo shook his white head, a rueful smile on his lips. Dwarves had very long memories and were very good at holding grudges.
Legolas turned to glare at the Dwarves, his eyes including the son as well as the father.
"Now come!" Gandalf interjected, allowing his surprise at Legolas news to be pushed aside for the moment. After all Wizards were never ruffled, even by unexpected tidings. "Pray do not interrupt, my good Gloin. That was a regrettable misunderstanding –"
"Misunderstanding, indeed." The old Dwarf snorted, folding his arms across his ample chest.
"Long set right." Gandalf said gruffly, with a glance at the two. "If all the grievances that stand between Elves and Dwarves are to be brought up here, we may as well abandon this Council."
Gloin scowled and muttered, but then he rose and bowed. When he was seated again. Legolas drew a breath and continued at the nod from Gandalf.
"In the days of fair weather we led Gollum through the woods; and there was a high tree standing alone far from the others which he liked to climb." The image of himself, Brethil and Lindir teaching Smeagol to climb Beleg Doron filled his mind. That had been a happier time, before he had known about Elu's fate in Dol Guldur. Though perhaps a better use of it could have been found than teaching Smeagol to climb. "Often we let him mount up to the highest branches until he felt the free wind; but we set a guard at the tree's foot. One day he refused to come down." Legolas could hear Lindir's song that he used to coax Smeagol down from the tree. "The guards had no mind to climb after him: he had learned the trick of clinging to boughs with his feet as well as his hands, so they sat by the tree far into the night." He paused swallowing. The handful that knew the story of that night in Mirkwood gazed sympathetically at him. And behind the bushes Elu slumped to the ground, his head in his hands. Sam gently lay a hand on his arm.
"It was that very night of summer, yet moonless – and starless, that- that Orcs came upon us at unawares." He could hear the clash of weapons, the Orcs' guttural voices, his father's look of disgust as he cleansed black blood from his hands. "We drove them off after sometime; they were many and fierce, but they came from over the mountains, and were unused to the woods. When the battle was over we found that Smeagol – Gollum – was gone and his guards were slain – "He drew a painful breath. : Ai, Brethil! : "Or taken." He paused only slightly, not letting his emotions get the better of him. "It then seemed plain to us that the attack had been made for his rescue, and that he knew of it before hand. How that was contrived we cannot guess; but Smeagol – Gollum – is cunning, and the spies of the Enemy are many. The dark things that were driven out in the year of the Dragon's fall have returned in greater numbers, and Mirkwood is again an evil place, save where our realm is maintained. We have failed to capture Gollum." He said, looking once more to Aragorn. "We came on his trail among those of many Orcs, and it plunged deep into the Forest, going south. But ere long it escaped our skill, and we dared not continue the hunt; for we were drawing night to Dol Guldur, and that is still a very evil place." His eyes reflected his sorrow only too well. "We do not go that way."
Aragorn smiled at him tenderly and nodded.
Legolas felt a wave of relief rush though him. He had been afraid that Estel would be very displeased with their failure to keep Gollum. He returned the smile.
"Well, well." Gandalf said, quietly. "He is gone. We have no time to seek for him again. He must do what he will. But he may play a part yet that neither he nor Sauron have foreseen."
As Legolas sat down, he noticed the look of apprehension that crossed Frodo's face at this pronouncement. But he breathed a sigh of relief. He had told them. Gonthalion's eyes were shining with a fierce pride and he patted his prince's arm.
"Well done, nin caun. Your father would be proud."
Legolas smiled slightly at him and turned his attention to Mithrandir who was speaking of the unforeseen treachery of Saruman and his own imprisonment and rescue by Gwaihir the Windlord, swiftest of the Great Eagles. He spoke of Rohan and the king there who would not heed his warnings, but bade him take a horse and be gone. And gone he was to Hobbiton in search of Frodo. Then to Buckland and Bree following the Hobbits' trail. At last to Weathertop where he had been besieged by Black Riders in the old Ring of Amon Sul. He had arrived at Rivendell only three days before the Hobbits.
"Well, the Tale is now told, from first to last. Here we all are," His blue eyes swept about the porch taking them all in. "And here is the Ring. But we have not yet come any nearer to our purpose. What shall we do with it?"
While the fate of the Ring was being decided on the porch at one end of Rivendell, a small child was hastily preparing to take his own fate in hand.
Jessolothrad threw some clothes into a pack, along with a water bottle, some cloth wrapped bread, and cheese. He wrapped the little horse that Elu had given him carefully in the silk and tucked it gently between the clothing. He fastened the pack and checked the harp, which was safely stowed in its case by the door.
He glanced about the room that had been their home for so long to make certain that he had forgotten anything that he would need for the journey. His eyes fell on the neatly written letter to his father. Tears burned in his eyes and he turned away, rubbing an impatient hand over them. He grabbed up his pack and harp and hurried from the room before his resolve crumbled. He checked the hall to make certain that no one was about. He moved silently down the hall and headed for the stables. He knew that many of the visitors to Rivendell were at Lord Elrond's Council and there was hardly anyone about. And those he avoided easily.
The scent of horses reached his nose and he smiled. He loved the way they smelled. Lailaith placed her head over the stall door and whinnied happily when she saw him. Jess' smile widened and he stroked her forehead, motioning with his other hand.
He lay the pack and harp case on the floor and let Lailaith out of her stall. He stroked her humming softly. Then he slung the pack and case onto his back and mounted.
Faron, his father's horse watched, snorting softly. Jess gazed sadly at him and waved, more tears threatening in his eyes. He gently kicked Lailaith's sides and they trotted out of the stable, heading east.