Title: The Promise of Farewell
Authoress: ChibiTari
Rating: PG/ PG-13
Warnings: Action, OC, humor and hinted romance!
Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings trilogy, though I wish I did.
Azalynne Driftwood is mine, however, and if you so wish to borrow her then you must ask. Kai belongs to KuriQuinn, Nevorata to my friend Ginny and Lith is owned by Iz. Steph's character, Myranore, is in this as well.
Summary: Azalynne Driftwood decided to protect Frodo with her life but when things become hard, can she keep this promise?
Okay, this chapter was really hard to type up because I had no clue how to describe anything! Anyway, here it is, hope you enjoy it! Oh, and I know that I promised to have Rivendell in this chapter too but it would have been too long so Rivendell will be in the next chapter.
Um... Chapter four is sort of on hold for a little while as well until I can come up with a good way to introduce another character! I know I said chapters three and four would be posted together but I was torn between posting this now and allowing you to read or let you all hang for a few days more until I come back from my uncle's!
I couldn't let you hang so instead, chapter four and five will be posted together and you get this chapter now! Feel the special vibes people!
Enjoy the fic!
Chapter Three (3): And so Fire Burns
The five companions had made it to the wooden gates of Bree safely. The rain had began to pour down hard, much to the liking of Azalynne as her skin had started to dry, and the Hobbits hid behind a clutter of small trees, out of sight from any unwanted persons.
"Come on!" Frodo instructed, leading the others to the entrance of the small village. He gave a soft knock just below the lower shutter, used to see who was arriving. The upper shutter was opened with force as the Gatekeeper peered through but it proved too high to see the small creatures so he moved to the lower one instead.
"What do you want?" The man asked in a heavy voice. His hair was matted to his head and his face was lined with wrinkles giving him an unpleasant feel.
"We're headed for the Prancing Pony, please give us heed for we are tired and soaked with rain, we only ask of little rest, nothing more." Azalynne said over the heads of the Hobbits.
The gate opened with a small rasp and the old man stepped out, holding a small lamp in front him so he could have better light so to see the faces of those who he was to let in. He looked them all over carefully, seeing their small dripping forms as they stood, waiting for his reply.
"Hobbits," He stated, shining the light over Frodo to get a better look at his muddy face and worn cloak that fastened just below the chin. "Five Hobbits! What business brings you to Bree?"
"Hobbit!? Do you count me as a Hobbit? Well I'll give you Hobbit, indeed!" Aza cried, pushing past the others as they tried to hold her back.
"Aza, calm down, he didn't mean anything by it! You have to admit, you are mighty small for an Elf!" Merry's voice strained as he was knocked away. Aza turned on her heel and made her way back to where she was positioned before her little outbreak and stood in silence, glaring coldly at the Night Watcher. Frodo continued the conversation with small pleads to allow them in and was rewarded as the man stepped to the side, allowing them access to the diminutive town.
The man apologized to the She-Elf about the uncommonly made mistake as she walked by him. She rolled her eyes and gave him a kick in the shin before moving on into the muddy road that rounded through the township. The five walked on through the downpour in silence, trying to stay clear of any men that happened to pass them.
Pippin heard a muffled yelp from his right and saw a few dazed and inebriated men leaning against the wall of a small home. Out of fear Pip moved closer to the others, taking careful steps around horses and carriages and skimming past people in the rather swarming thoroughfare.
Azalynne called out to them, telling them to keep a sharp eye out for the sign of the Prancing Pony. After a while of searching in the dark and dirtied roads they came across what they were looking for.
"There!" Sam announced, pointing to the small wooden sign with the words: 'The Prancing Pony' written on it in gold painted letters.
"Hurry on, get inside!" Frodo instructed, pushing the others through the small doorway.
Once inside something caught Aza's gaze as she straightened out her sopping hair. Her eye was fixed on a man in the corner, his hood up, shadowing his face from the light.
"Excuse me," The blue eyed Hobbit said in a quiet voice. The Innkeeper looked over the countertop, seeing the Halflings wandering eyes. He leaned further down so he would be able to hear them over the noise of the chatter and mad laughter behind them.
"Good evening, little masters. If you're seeking accommodation we've got some nice, cozy Hobbit-sized rooms available, Mr.-" The Innkeeper bobbed his head, waiting for a name of any sort.
"Underhill... My name's Underhill." Frodo said, a little unsure of himself. He was given a light squeeze on the shoulder as he turned to face Aza. Her eyes did not meet his as she stared past the flock of males to the back of the bar. She spoke softly to him, making sure to sound as if there was no danger in her mind.
"I will be there if you need me Fro- Mr. Underhill." She said, catching herself before she let anything slip.
The girl made her way through the streams of drunken men to the back of the bar, nearing the Ranger.
The man in black smoked his pipe, keeping a watchful eye on the person nearing him. He gave a little grunt as she sat in the chair across from him, hidden by the half-wall of stone that separated them from the rest of the gentleman who currently roamed the bar.
"It seems we are not the only ones here to meet Gandalf." She said, keeping her voice low. The man looked up, peering through his covered eyes to look at the Elf.
"I do not know who it is you speak of, I'm sorry." He said politely, taking in another puff of his pipe.
"I know that it is you, Aragorn. What name is it that you use here...? Strider?" The brunette gazed up at him, a smile tugging at her lips as he grinned down at her. [9]
"Why have you come this far, Azalynne? You were never one to leave your home so freely!"
"That is not true, I never had that sort of freedom, otherwise I would have said goodbye to my home long ago." She stated, her cerulean eyes piercing his as they stared at one another for a moment.
"Then what makes now any different?" His voice held an accusing sort of tone, making the older one nervous.
"I snuck away but that it not the issue..."
"Then tell me what is and we can be done with it." Aragorn said his speech hard as he looked around.
"It is the One Ring, Aragorn. It has been found and now I must help take it to Rivendell as Gandalf did not meet us." Aza explained her manner turning quite serious.
"The One Ring?" the cloaked man asked uncertainly, his expression staying calm. There was no hint of worry around him and Aza knew that he had heard.
"Yes, and I need your help in protecting its bearer. Please, just help me get to The House of Elrond and all shall be well." The Elfling pleaded, her face softening slightly.
"How do you know that Gandalf wants the Ring delivered there? Elrond would not be pleased moreover."
"I have already thought of that, Aragorn, the fact of the matter is, Frodo needs our help and I plan to give it to him. I beg of you, consider doing me this one favor?"
"I can do nothing you can't. I fear that my power is very limited, Azalynne. Not even I have the strength to keep such a person safe." Strider saw that he had been seen by two of the Hobbits. One he knew to be the Ring bearer but the other had not been given a name. He looked back to Aza who only looked fiercely back.
"Yes, I know but you do have some power, friend. Arwen would not be having it if you do not help in the least! I really need you in these times of trouble!" The girl chuckled, trying to bring some humor into the conversation.
"Aza-"
"Please?"
Strider thought it over in his mind but found no reason why he shouldn't, besides the obvious fact that he could get himself killed and that it was death on Hobbitish legs...
"Fine, I will do what I can but expect not much from me for I cannot do much."
"Diolch lye [10]," Aza smiled warmly up at the man before her. He smiled ever so slightly back, continuing to puff on his pipe.
Aza's ears then picked up the sounds of a commotion beginning near the counter of the bar. She turned to see Pippin making a fuss as Frodo grabbed his arm, calling out to him.
"Steady on, Frodo!" She heard the Hobbit cry as he steadied himself on his stool. What happened next came as a shock to everyone present. Frodo had tripped over a man's foot, causing him to fall to the ground but as he did so the Ring flew out of his closed hand and into the air. The blue eyed bearer tried to grab for it but succeeded in the most dangerous of ways. The Ring had slipped onto his forefinger and the minute it touched his pale skin its power over took him. He disappeared before the eyes of everyone in that area, totally out of sight even to an Elf's eyes.
"Do not tell me this is the power of the Ring!" Strider gasped, barely in his seat any longer. He saw Aza nod in the corner of his eye as she stood, a look of concern and fear making its way onto her frail features.
"They are coming; I can feel it, Aragorn. They have sensed the Rings presence and now they are coming for it!" Azalynne looked down at her hands, hating herself inside for not seeing this sooner.
"Ready a room, Aza, make it seem as if the Halflings are asleep in the beds. I have a plan and it should not fail. I will find Frodo."
The brunette hurried up the stairs, jamming the key into the well crafted lock as she opened the door to the room. She walked inside, grabbing a pillow off each bad and stuffing them in under the covers. After fluffing them out a bit to make them seem more alive she grabbed more cushions from the corner of the room and rested them under the 'sleeping forms' to make it appear a little more believable.
A clatter came from outside the door and soon the wooden access was thrown open. A petrified little Frodo was dragged in by the arm as the Ranger came in, hood still up and shadowing his face.
The half-man was thrown down beside the fire with great force, sending him hurling to the ground with a painful thud.
"Ooh, Frodo!" Aza gathered the small being in her arms as he trembled, scared of what was to happen to him.
"What do you want?" He croaked out, glaring at the man who had apparently tried to hurt him. The man moved over to the lit candles, pinching them to put them out, hoping that the little 'riot' downstairs would be forgotten.
"A little more caution from you; that is no trinket you carry." The man let down his hood, showing a mass of thin black hair and a pair of un- shadowed blue eyes.
"What do you want?" Frodo stammered stunned from what had just happened to him.
"A little more caution from you, I'm sure." The Elf scolded.
"That is no trinket you carry." Strider stated motioning to the ring cradled in Frodo's hand. This caught the Hobbits attention some and he sat; bolt upright, in Aza's arms. He then stood, eyeing the Ranger with suspicion.
"I carry nothing." Frodo lied, backing away past the She-Elf's form on the floor.
"Indeed. I can avoid being seen if I wish but to disappear entirely, now that is a rare gift."
"Who are you?" The frightened Halfling asked, wondering if he should have said anything at all. The man came closer, bearing down at him with a stern face.
"Are you frightened?" Strider asked, looking towards Aza as she lifted herself from the ground to go and sit on one of the beds. There was a small pause as Frodo thought the question over in his mind. It was telling him to say 'no', to stand up for himself and be strong for he did have a skilled Elvish friend, seated not to far away. But that was the thing. She was seated and gave the impression that she did not care for his well-being.
"Yes," He blurted before he could think any longer.
"Not nearly frightened enough," Strider avowed, trudging over to the window. He glanced down to the people below as they went about their nightly business; drinking and laughing with friends, not aware of what was to come. "I know what hunts you."
"Do not scare him any further, old friend, for I fear the worst will be brought out by this." The cerulean eyed female muttered, sending a small fleeting look over to the confused Ring bearer.
Immediately the door swung open and Strider drew his sword. The other Hobbits were seen, Pippin with a stool in hand, Merry with the candles and Sam with his fists up, ready to fight for his best friend.
"Let him go or I'll have you Longshanks!" The blond threatened, his teeth bared and tone unfriendly. Aragorn frowned down at him, putting the sword away. He looked over to Aza who had a grin from ear to ear as she warmly greeted the scene.
"You have a stout heart, little one." The brunette laughed, taking a quick look at the human man that stood before them. He did not find it quite as amusing as she and warned;
"That will not save you." He then turned back to the Hobbit he had grabbed from downstairs, "You can no longer wait for the Wizard, Frodo. They are coming."
*
The small group had settled into bed, unable to keep their open any longer. Azalynne and Strider sat by the window, awaiting the arrival of the foul creatures from earlier that day. Aza's Elfish ears helped her pick up a few sounds; the screeching of the riders in black and the voice of the Gatekeeper. She heard as he opened the gate but was knocked down, forced into the ground by the weight of the large wooden entrance. She listened to the sound of his bones crushing under the horses hooves as the Rider rode into Bree, searching for their masters desired Ring of Power.
She no longer needed her ears as she saw the Ringwraiths rounded a corner. They approached the Inn where they were told to wait for Gandalf, and plodded up the wooden stairs to the Hobbit Rooms.
Through the window you could see a rider stand above each bed, drawing their swords and lifting them over the 'sleeping bodies'. In unison they plunged their swords into them, appearing as if they killed those who rested in those beds.
When they pulled back the covers on each of the beds they found nothing but feathered pillows underneath. Angered and agitated they stormed out of the Inn, swords still drawn in front of them. The black riders climbed onto their stallions and rode off, going to tell their master of the news.
Back in the room across the road, the Hobbits awoke, hearing the uproar in the old area where they were to sleep before the meeting with Strider and the incident with the Ring.
"What are they?" Frodo breathed, his eyes showing pure curiosity and disgust for those life forms, whatever they were. Aragorn tore his gaze from the retreating backs of the Ringwraiths as they rode off into the night, momentarily looking at the boy's small form in the bed, now sitting between Merry and Sam, who also had a look of wonderment on bother their faces.
"They were once men," Aza started, gazing sadly out of the window, watching as her breath would leave a small fog on the glass before disappearing. "Great Kings of men."
"Then Sauron the Deceiver gave them nine rings of power. Blinded by their greed they took them without question; one by one, falling into darkness. Now they are slaves to his will. They are the Nazgul, Ringwraiths. Neither living nor dead." Aragorn continued lowering his head for a moment as something clawed at the back of his mind. He had a look of disgrace on his face but none of the other five were sure why.
"They are drawn to the power of the Ring; they will never stop hunting you so long as you possess it." Aza muttered, realizing that Aragorn would not be the one to continue.
*
It was finally sun break and the six were off, now traveling with a pony; Bill. They had to travel as light as they could for they were headed for a long journey. Azalynne skipped along, ahead of the others, a few paces in front of the Ranger. She took in a great breath of air, enjoying herself fully and jumped down from the great rock that she had climbed up earlier to settle herself back into step with her old acquaintance.
"Where are you taking us?" Frodo asked, trying to watch for jagged stones and nettles that grew out of the ground. He moved steadily over the dirt and grass as he and the others followed behind the new comer into their small group.
"Into the wild!" Aza answered, laughing as she flipped off yet another rock which she had managed to mount.
"How do we know this 'Strider' is a friend of Gandalf's?" Merry asked, suspicion and disbelief dripping into his every word as he whispered to Frodo just a few steps ahead of him.
"We have no choice but to trust him. Besides, Azalynne seems to be enjoying his company." Frodo pointed out, regarding the way that the said Elf was walking backwards so she could speak with this man. He looked as if he was enjoying himself as well for he laughed roughly at something she had mentioned.
"But where is he leading us?" Sam strained, pulling on Bill's reigns, trying to get the pony to stop grazing.
"To Rivendell, Master Gamgee, to the House of Elrond." Aragorn informed, not turning to meet anyone's gaze.
"Did you hear that? Rivendell! We're going to see the Elves!" Sam cheered, glancing up with a wide smile on his face.
"Glad to know you know what I am..." Aza scoffed, frowning at the chubby half-man.
"All I meant was we're of to see the fairer-"
"Oh, so I'm not fair!? Thank you, Sam, make an Elf feel welcomed!"
They continued on their way, the path becoming easier as they marched over more grassy areas. At one point in the small trip, however, there was a stall. Strider and Azalynne kept their pace but hearing no feet scurry along behind them they turned to find the Hobbits readying themselves for a meal.
"Gentlemen, we do not stop 'till nightfall!" Aragon stated, watching as the creatures unpacked pans and plates.
"What about breakfast?" Pippin asked, a little unsure of what to think.
"You've already had." The man pointed out after clearly seeing them eat that morning. The tallest of the Hobbits, Merry, had even had the liberty of stealing his potato.
"We've had one, yes. What about Second Breakfast?" Pippin questioned. The Ranger just sighed and turned to walk away. Their Elvish friend came down beside them to help put the pans and things away so that they may continue on. They did, after all, have seven days until their eyes would rest on the beauty held by Rivendell.
"I don't think he knows about Second Breakfast, Pip." Merry indicated, giving his a half-glance sideways as he fastened his bag.
Pippin looked unbelieving at this, his face holding a certain shock. He ran hastily up beside the taller one, turning him around and began naming off the different meals that any normal Hobbit would have during the day.
"What about elevenses? Luncheon? Afternoon Tea? Dinner? Super? He knows about them, doesn't he?" Pip tried, shooting questions at the other as heard his stomach give a growl.
"He's a Ranger, Pippin, I wouldn't count on it!" Azalynne giggled, helping Sam pull the pony along, brushing his caramel coat softly as she attempted to get him to move faster.
Unexpectedly an apple flew through the air towards the two arguing cousins. Merry turned in time to see the apple before he caught it after which he handed to Pippin to feed his hungry belly.
He turned, giving the light haired Hobbit a pat on the shoulder and the walked away, pursuing the new guide. Another apple then flew, hitting poor Pippin in the head. The Halfling looked up and then around, truly bewildered.
"Pippin!" Merry called over his shoulder, snapping the younger one out of his state of shock. Aza trailed behind, leaning down without stopping to pick the fallen fruit off the ground.
It was now nearing nightfall and the Hobbits required rest for the coming hours of darkness. Strider stopped up ahead, seeing the ruins of Amon Sul before him in the fading night sky.
"This was the great watchtower of Amon Sul," He breathed, now facing Aza who had an interested look about her. "We shall rest here tonight." He then announced, looking back at the struggling beings.
They made it to the great stone tower, the Hobbits resting down in a corner while Strider reached into his bag to collect something.
"These are for you," He said, unfolding the cloth to reveal four small Elven swords, well crafted for war. "Keep them close. Aza and I are going to have a look around so stay here."
Aza have a nod and soon the two were off, both in different directions. The Elf maid stayed closer to the Hobbits, though, incase she was needed for emergency. Finding non she went a little further down, inspecting every rock, every plant and every stream of water in and around the small ruined town.
The child chuckled as she heard Pip cry out; "Oh, that's nice, you've got ahs in my tomatoes!" but the feeling soon died as she sensed the Nazgul nearing. She looked up seeing Strider in the distance. After a few attempts to signal to him, he got the message and ran as fast as his legs would take him to the resting place of the Halflings. Both of them knew they wouldn't get there before the Wraiths but they had to try.
"Hurry, Aragorn! We cannot let them die to these foul creatures of the earth!" Aza called, drawing her sword from her back. She felt something brush by her as she raced up the stony hill.
Aragon was soon beside her, torch in one hand and sword in the other. "Take this! Burn them when you have the chance and do not fear the blaze for it will only burn you greater then!"
"Thank you for your words of such comfort!" Aza took the torch she was offered and headed up to the top of the tower. There then came a cry of pain from who was recognized to be Frodo as she and Strider made it to the top.
Strider leaped at the Witch-King, swinging his sword, trying to move him away from the Ring Bearer.
One of the Nazgul swung it's sword at the Elf from behind but the girl managed to jump out of the way. Instead, she jumped onto his shoulders, jabbing her bladed into the monsters head from above. The creature fell and she flipped off, tossing her torch at another of the Wraiths.
When she turned, the Dark Rider she was said to have killed had disappeared. Her eyes searched for it but finding nothing she gave up and continued to help Aragorn fight off the demon creatures.
Another came from behind her, burning from the arms down. It tried to grab for her but missed. Coming closer still she backed away further, fearing the flames that grew on the Wraiths cloak.
"STRIDER!" She cried, her back coming into contacted with a stone behind her. She had nowhere to move, stuck between rock and death. Just as the Wraith closed in the sound of a sword being swung was heard. With a sigh of relief the Elf jumped backwards, leaping onto the stone she was up against before. Aza gave a thankful nod to the man below her as he turned to see only one of the enemy still standing.
The two fighters looked at one another, each giving a broad grin. Aragorn lifted his torch and Azalynne her silver dagger. In unison they both tossed their weapons at the last Wraith, sending it screeching and burning in the hood down the cold, damp path to its mount.
"Strider! Help him Strider!" Sam cried, trying to comfort Frodo as the wound now seen below his left shoulder blade. The elder brunette rushed to his side, lifting him from the others into a soft hold. She watched as the warrior lifted the sword that had inflicted this wound into such a frail creature.
"He was stabbed by a Morgul Blade." The Hobbit whimpered, gasping for breath at the same moment as he felt his life fade.
"No, Frodo! Stay with us!" Aza begged, holding the little one closer.
"Can't you heal him? You are and Elf after all." Merry asked, choking on his words as he watched his friend suffer so.
"I am merely a child, Meriadoc; I know not such strong skills as healing of yet. I can do nothing." She gazed sadly down at the anguishing boy. A single tear ran down her cheek, dropping delicately onto the abrasion. For one short moment the pain seemed to subside but in the next he was screaming. Everyone looked up at Aragorn, some form of hope residing in each of their eyes but he only shook his head.
"This is beyond my skill to heal, he needs Elvish medicine." Aragorn took Frodo from the present Elf's arms and carried him over his shoulder. "Hurry!" He called back. Aza got the others to their feet but Pip seemed to stay in the ground or he would fall.
"You are truly hurting for him, aren't you?" A voice asked, breaking through his thoughts. He looked up and found only Aza standing above him. She held out a hand and he took it, leaning on her for support.
"Do not fear, Peregrin, he will live through this for he bears the Ring. If only my sister were here, she has stronger magic than I; she would know what to do."
The group rushed along, following with hurried steps as they worried about Frodo and whether or not he would live to see the light of morning.
"We're six days from Rivendell! He'll never make it!" Sam shouted, tears streaking down his cheeks as Frodo continued to writhe in ache.
"Hold on Frodo." Aragorn soothed, rubbing the poor souls back. The boy shivered, the pain now filling his body. He was too sore to think but one thing did cross his mind. He cried out, calling for the only person he could think of at the moment: "GANDALF!!!"
A few feet away they rested, the Ranger lighting another torch, looking around for something. Frodo was rested on the ground, his eyes blurring as he looked up to see the stone figures of three monstrous trolls, the ones Bilbo had described in his stories.
"He's going cold." Sam muttered, feeling his friend's cheeks and forehead.
"Is he going to die?" Pippin sniffed, looking watery eyed at Strider.
"He's passing into the Shadow World. He'll soon become a Wraith like them." Aragorn explained, his eyes still searching. The screech of the Nazgul came, very close now as they sensed the presence of the Ring.
"They're close." Aza mumbled, narrowed her eyes at him, the feeling of the lifeless souls of the creatures nearing sickening her.
"Sam," Aragorn turned, calling for the gardener, "Do you know the Athelas plant?"
"Athelas?" The Hobbit questioned, staring in puzzlement.
"Kingsfoil?" The older man offered, remembering the more common name of the plant he considered necessary.
"Kingsfoil..." Sam ran the name through his head then recalled the look of it, "Ay, it's a weed!"
"It may help to slow the poison." Aza muttered, loving the idea as she rocked the hurting Hobbit in her arms, trying to calm him even just in the least.
The gardener looked from Ranger to Elf, not understanding what they wanted of him.
"Find us this plant and hurry!" Aragorn instructed, pulling out a small cutting knife and moving into the trees. He raced on, his eyes searching for any sign of the healing herb. Taking the knife in his hand he cut some off but when he went back for some more he felt the tip of a sword at his throat. Fearing the worst he reached for his, his hand clamping over it in a tight grip.
"What's this," The voice came, soft and light, clearly female, "a Ranger caught off his guard?" The voice teased as the sword was removed. A small sigh of relief was heard and the Ranger stood, letting go of his weapon.
Back at the sight of the three trolls, Azalynne sat, clearly out of ideas on how to sooth the suffering boy. The sound of hooves came out from the darkness as a white stallion came crashing through the bushes and into view. The rider jumped off and came towards Frodo, motioning for the Elf child to rest him on the ground.
"Frodo, Im Arwen. Telin le thaed. Lasto beth n?n tolo dan na ngalad [11]." The woman spoke, kneeling down next to the Halfling. She lifted his head off the ground, cradling it in her hands as she inspected him.
"Who is she?" Merry asked his eyes wide as he knew the answer but couldn't stop the question.
"She's an Elf." Sam stated, seeing the ears peaking out through the dark strands of hair.
"Frodo?" The Elf maiden asked, trying to reach him but failing. "He's fading, he's not going to last. We must get him to my father." She carried the Hobbit to her horse, Aza scurrying along behind them, trying to understand what was going on. "I've been looking for you for two days." The elder Elf maiden stated as Aragorn held Frodo up on the white steed.
"Where are you taking him?" Sam cried but his question went unnoticed by all as the two lovers continued talking.
"There are five Wraiths behind you! Where the other four are I do not know." Arwen said, gazing into the blue eyes opposite hers.
"Dartho guin Berian, Rych le ad tolthathon [12]." Aragorn said in the true Elvish tongue as a stunned Elvin child glared up a him.
"Hon mabathon. Rochon ellint im [13]." Arwen shot back, knowing she was winning this argument by a lot. Her eyes pierced his for one small moment before he come up with an excuse to keep her safe: "Andelu i ven [14]."
What are they saying?" One of the three less hurt Hobbits asked, watching the scene with interested eyes.
"Frodo fir. Ae athradon i hir, tur gwaith n?n beriatha hon [15]." Arwen said, her spirit not fading as she knew the man was only trying to keep her alive. They were in love, after all. "I do not fear them." She assured, giving him a strong gaze.
"Be iest lin [16]." Strider mumbled, regretting the words that he spoke but knowing that she was right, she could get Frodo to safety faster, no matter what the cost. "Arwen, ride hard. Don't look back!" The Ranger instructed while the female mounted the horse. The woman smiled down at him with care in her eyes as she held onto Frodo who sat in front of her, making it easier for him not to fall off when riding.
"Noro lim, Asfaloth, noro lim [17]!"
"What're you doing!? Those Wraiths are still out there!" Sam shouted when Arwen rode off into the darkness. Azalynne watched as the two disappeared from view. Her mind was telling her to stay but her hearts will told her to go with them, to follow along with the promise she had made to herself.
"I will not let Frodo down." She whispered to herself, clutching her silver ring in her hands. "I will protect him with all the strength I have in this world and more!" She said a little louder. The ring began to let off a faint glow. Her hand opened and the ring floated in the air for a few moments before it slipped itself onto her finger.
"An garrad shi neen cur al gin waith [18]." She chanted, the same faint glow forming around her. Soon the light grew and her body started to ach, a pain so great over took her then and her body began to change. Her skin stretched and her hair grew thin and short, growing on her hands, arms and legs. Her ears shrunk into the side of her head while new ones appeared on the top. Her nose grew longer and her eyes glazed over...
The light grew small and soon faded but Aza was no where to be found. Instead, in her place was a small brown and grey wolf, looking ahead with keen and eager eyes.
"W-what happened!?" Merry screamed out, looking at the wolf in a fearful way.
"Her ring." Aragorn said casually, seeing this happen before when he visited her home country. He gave her a pat, ruffling her fur and running his hand along her back before he whispered to her,
"Find him and watch him. Let nothing happen to the two for I fear the worst." The canine gave a bark and then darted off in the same direction as the two others before her. Her speed had increased quite a lot during the transformation and her hearing grew as well.
She saw through the darkness the great white horse and the two riders but she also picked up a sent that gave her a grave feeling. Running faster she managed to catch up to the Elf and Hobbit -who seemed not to recognize her- and kept a watchful eye on what was around them.
It was now mid-morning; they had been in the clear all night but soon... soon they would be chased and wouldn't be able to hold the Wraiths back, that is, if they were all there. The wind picked up and the sin shone bright in the sky but the beauty went unnoticed as thoughts of hurt and death filled the minds of the three. It was nearing afternoon and the screeching became louder and, after barely a minute or so of waiting, the Dark Riders were upon them.
"Arwen! Hurry on, they approach us fast!" The Wolfen-Elf spoke, though her mouth did not move. The dark haired maiden did not have time to question the other now; she only had time to escape. They ran, through bush and through stream, trying without success to lose the black-hearted riders that pursued them.
"Noro lim, Asfaloth!" Arwen cried, ducking as she passed a hanging branch. One of the riders reached out for Frodo, nearly grasping the young ones cloak but the River Elf moved away quickly, out of the mans reach.
They were nearing the river; Azalynne could smell its fresh water and hear it rush over the stones at its edge. After finally reaching the clearing she saw it. The three of them hurried, the stallion pushing itself to continue as the other horses beckoned it to stop. Its pace quickened and before long he had managed to get his master to the other side, the wolf still beside him. Arwen turned Asfaloth to face their trailers and, holding up her sword she glared, challenging them to step foot in the water.
The nine stopped before the river, gazing across at the tired stallion and his riders.
"Give up the Halfling, She-Elf!" One managed to scratch out, his voice still barely over a whisper. It seemed that it hadn't been used since the day he had decided to become what he is now.
"If you want him, come and claim him!" Arwen cried, her voice holding a certain threat and hate in it. The riders shrieked again and then began to move forward. Sensing their unease, Aza began to wonder, trying to open her mind to any of the spells she had overheard her father teaching her elder sisters at one of their Spells lessons.
"Arwen, call for the Loudwaters from the Misty Mountains! They are your only way to defeat these evil creatures!" The Ralgonnian Elf maiden finally concluded, remembering vaguely what her father had said about those still clinging to life after death.
The other Elfin agreed, lowering her sword slightly. Aza's mind filled with the words but she couldn't put them in any sort of order and could only give them to her new friend in the way she had them now. Able to recall the chant needed, Arwen called on the power of her people to guide her through and began to chant what she memorized.
"Nin o Chithaelgir, lasto beth daer, Rimmo n?n Bruinen dan in Ulaer [19]!" The waters began to rise and the waves began to quicken. Soon, through the thick rocks of the mountain side they could hear the great wave coming. And come it did. The Nazgul tried to hurry downstream but the race of water formed into the heads of horses caught up with them and soon they were lost under the tide, choking on the liquid though they knew they would not die. Aza transformed back to her normal state, her eyes not leaving the sight before her as the Wraiths were swept downstream and, in her mind, never to be seen again.
Just then Frodo gave a gasp, sucking in the air he needed with great trouble. The two Elves laid him down on the dirt floor of the forest, looking him over with great worry weighing in their hearts. After a few more gasps and whimpers it seemed that he began to choke for the air.
"No! NO! Frodo no! Frodo, don't give in! Not now!" The elder of the two begged, tears welling up in her eyes as the held the small one close to her. Aza sat beside her, wiping his forehead of the sweat and dirt.
"What grace is given me, let it pass to him. Let him be spared. Save him..." She whispered, staring up at the sky with watery eyes as she let the tears fall, some hitting the Hobbits cheeks and traveling down his chin to the ground.
*
"Lasto beth n?n, tolo dan gan ngalad," The voice spoke strong, relieving Frodo of all the aches and pains he had to bear in the past few hours. A face, clearly that of an Elf's, surrounded by a bright white light was all that Frodo had time to see before the darkness took him and his worries left...
YEAH! CHAPTER THREE IS DONE! MAN, THIS WAS THE HARDEST ONE YET ONLY BECAUSE I HAD NO IDEA HOW TO DESCRIBE IT ALL! WELL, I SORT OF MANAGED TO SO I HOPE YOU LIKED IT! REVIEW ME SOON!
Chapter Three (3) will be posted alone Chapter Four (4) + Chapter Five (5) will be posted together
[9]- Aza has met Aragorn before when he visited her home country long ago. They are not the best of friends but they are friends all the same. Throughout the journey of the One Ring, Aragorn treats her like a little child and almost sister in a way, feeling this great need to watch out for her.
[10]- Diolch lye- Thank you in Ralgonnian. I took the Elvish word 'lle' (meaning 'you') and made a new word with it, not wanting to be too far off and then I took the Welsh word 'Diolch' (Meaning 'thank').
This is for those of you who couldn't catch exactly what they said in the movie because they are sub-title! Anywho, here it is:
[11]- Frodo, Im Arwen. Telin le thaed. Lasto beth n?n tolo dan na ngalad- 'I am Arwen. I've come to help you. Hear my voice, come back to the light.' in Elvish
[12]- Dartho guin Berian, Rych le ad tolthathon- 'Stay with the Hobbits, I will send horses for you.' in Elvish.
[13]- Hon mabathon. Rochon ellint im- 'I'm the faster rider. I'll take him.' in Elvish.
[14]- Andelu i ven- 'the road is too dangerous' in Elvish.
[15]- Frodo fir. Ae athradon i hir, tur gwaith n?n beriatha hon- 'Frodo is dying. I f I can get him across the river the power of my people will protect him.' in Elvish.
[16]- Be iest lin- 'According to your wish' in Elvish.
[17]- Noro lim, Asfaloth, noro lim- 'Ride fast, Asfaloth, ride fast' in Elvish.
[18]- An garrad shi neen cur al gin waith- 'In nature shine with beasts of old and become what their hearts feared most' in Ancient Ralgonnian Elvish.
[19]- Nin o Chithaelgir, lasto beth daer, Rimmo n?n Bruinen dan in Ulaer- 'Waters of the Misty Mountains listen to the great word: flow waters of Loudwater against the Ringwraiths.' in Elvish.
© Script for the dialogue that many will recognize from the motion picture 'The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'. The script is taken from the site following:
http://dreamwater.net/seatofkings/script_fotr_pics.html
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Quick summary for the next chapter:
Ch. 4: A Flash of Waters Red (Rivendell, Council of Elrond, Spies of Saruman)
Authoress: ChibiTari
Rating: PG/ PG-13
Warnings: Action, OC, humor and hinted romance!
Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings trilogy, though I wish I did.
Azalynne Driftwood is mine, however, and if you so wish to borrow her then you must ask. Kai belongs to KuriQuinn, Nevorata to my friend Ginny and Lith is owned by Iz. Steph's character, Myranore, is in this as well.
Summary: Azalynne Driftwood decided to protect Frodo with her life but when things become hard, can she keep this promise?
Okay, this chapter was really hard to type up because I had no clue how to describe anything! Anyway, here it is, hope you enjoy it! Oh, and I know that I promised to have Rivendell in this chapter too but it would have been too long so Rivendell will be in the next chapter.
Um... Chapter four is sort of on hold for a little while as well until I can come up with a good way to introduce another character! I know I said chapters three and four would be posted together but I was torn between posting this now and allowing you to read or let you all hang for a few days more until I come back from my uncle's!
I couldn't let you hang so instead, chapter four and five will be posted together and you get this chapter now! Feel the special vibes people!
Enjoy the fic!
Chapter Three (3): And so Fire Burns
The five companions had made it to the wooden gates of Bree safely. The rain had began to pour down hard, much to the liking of Azalynne as her skin had started to dry, and the Hobbits hid behind a clutter of small trees, out of sight from any unwanted persons.
"Come on!" Frodo instructed, leading the others to the entrance of the small village. He gave a soft knock just below the lower shutter, used to see who was arriving. The upper shutter was opened with force as the Gatekeeper peered through but it proved too high to see the small creatures so he moved to the lower one instead.
"What do you want?" The man asked in a heavy voice. His hair was matted to his head and his face was lined with wrinkles giving him an unpleasant feel.
"We're headed for the Prancing Pony, please give us heed for we are tired and soaked with rain, we only ask of little rest, nothing more." Azalynne said over the heads of the Hobbits.
The gate opened with a small rasp and the old man stepped out, holding a small lamp in front him so he could have better light so to see the faces of those who he was to let in. He looked them all over carefully, seeing their small dripping forms as they stood, waiting for his reply.
"Hobbits," He stated, shining the light over Frodo to get a better look at his muddy face and worn cloak that fastened just below the chin. "Five Hobbits! What business brings you to Bree?"
"Hobbit!? Do you count me as a Hobbit? Well I'll give you Hobbit, indeed!" Aza cried, pushing past the others as they tried to hold her back.
"Aza, calm down, he didn't mean anything by it! You have to admit, you are mighty small for an Elf!" Merry's voice strained as he was knocked away. Aza turned on her heel and made her way back to where she was positioned before her little outbreak and stood in silence, glaring coldly at the Night Watcher. Frodo continued the conversation with small pleads to allow them in and was rewarded as the man stepped to the side, allowing them access to the diminutive town.
The man apologized to the She-Elf about the uncommonly made mistake as she walked by him. She rolled her eyes and gave him a kick in the shin before moving on into the muddy road that rounded through the township. The five walked on through the downpour in silence, trying to stay clear of any men that happened to pass them.
Pippin heard a muffled yelp from his right and saw a few dazed and inebriated men leaning against the wall of a small home. Out of fear Pip moved closer to the others, taking careful steps around horses and carriages and skimming past people in the rather swarming thoroughfare.
Azalynne called out to them, telling them to keep a sharp eye out for the sign of the Prancing Pony. After a while of searching in the dark and dirtied roads they came across what they were looking for.
"There!" Sam announced, pointing to the small wooden sign with the words: 'The Prancing Pony' written on it in gold painted letters.
"Hurry on, get inside!" Frodo instructed, pushing the others through the small doorway.
Once inside something caught Aza's gaze as she straightened out her sopping hair. Her eye was fixed on a man in the corner, his hood up, shadowing his face from the light.
"Excuse me," The blue eyed Hobbit said in a quiet voice. The Innkeeper looked over the countertop, seeing the Halflings wandering eyes. He leaned further down so he would be able to hear them over the noise of the chatter and mad laughter behind them.
"Good evening, little masters. If you're seeking accommodation we've got some nice, cozy Hobbit-sized rooms available, Mr.-" The Innkeeper bobbed his head, waiting for a name of any sort.
"Underhill... My name's Underhill." Frodo said, a little unsure of himself. He was given a light squeeze on the shoulder as he turned to face Aza. Her eyes did not meet his as she stared past the flock of males to the back of the bar. She spoke softly to him, making sure to sound as if there was no danger in her mind.
"I will be there if you need me Fro- Mr. Underhill." She said, catching herself before she let anything slip.
The girl made her way through the streams of drunken men to the back of the bar, nearing the Ranger.
The man in black smoked his pipe, keeping a watchful eye on the person nearing him. He gave a little grunt as she sat in the chair across from him, hidden by the half-wall of stone that separated them from the rest of the gentleman who currently roamed the bar.
"It seems we are not the only ones here to meet Gandalf." She said, keeping her voice low. The man looked up, peering through his covered eyes to look at the Elf.
"I do not know who it is you speak of, I'm sorry." He said politely, taking in another puff of his pipe.
"I know that it is you, Aragorn. What name is it that you use here...? Strider?" The brunette gazed up at him, a smile tugging at her lips as he grinned down at her. [9]
"Why have you come this far, Azalynne? You were never one to leave your home so freely!"
"That is not true, I never had that sort of freedom, otherwise I would have said goodbye to my home long ago." She stated, her cerulean eyes piercing his as they stared at one another for a moment.
"Then what makes now any different?" His voice held an accusing sort of tone, making the older one nervous.
"I snuck away but that it not the issue..."
"Then tell me what is and we can be done with it." Aragorn said his speech hard as he looked around.
"It is the One Ring, Aragorn. It has been found and now I must help take it to Rivendell as Gandalf did not meet us." Aza explained her manner turning quite serious.
"The One Ring?" the cloaked man asked uncertainly, his expression staying calm. There was no hint of worry around him and Aza knew that he had heard.
"Yes, and I need your help in protecting its bearer. Please, just help me get to The House of Elrond and all shall be well." The Elfling pleaded, her face softening slightly.
"How do you know that Gandalf wants the Ring delivered there? Elrond would not be pleased moreover."
"I have already thought of that, Aragorn, the fact of the matter is, Frodo needs our help and I plan to give it to him. I beg of you, consider doing me this one favor?"
"I can do nothing you can't. I fear that my power is very limited, Azalynne. Not even I have the strength to keep such a person safe." Strider saw that he had been seen by two of the Hobbits. One he knew to be the Ring bearer but the other had not been given a name. He looked back to Aza who only looked fiercely back.
"Yes, I know but you do have some power, friend. Arwen would not be having it if you do not help in the least! I really need you in these times of trouble!" The girl chuckled, trying to bring some humor into the conversation.
"Aza-"
"Please?"
Strider thought it over in his mind but found no reason why he shouldn't, besides the obvious fact that he could get himself killed and that it was death on Hobbitish legs...
"Fine, I will do what I can but expect not much from me for I cannot do much."
"Diolch lye [10]," Aza smiled warmly up at the man before her. He smiled ever so slightly back, continuing to puff on his pipe.
Aza's ears then picked up the sounds of a commotion beginning near the counter of the bar. She turned to see Pippin making a fuss as Frodo grabbed his arm, calling out to him.
"Steady on, Frodo!" She heard the Hobbit cry as he steadied himself on his stool. What happened next came as a shock to everyone present. Frodo had tripped over a man's foot, causing him to fall to the ground but as he did so the Ring flew out of his closed hand and into the air. The blue eyed bearer tried to grab for it but succeeded in the most dangerous of ways. The Ring had slipped onto his forefinger and the minute it touched his pale skin its power over took him. He disappeared before the eyes of everyone in that area, totally out of sight even to an Elf's eyes.
"Do not tell me this is the power of the Ring!" Strider gasped, barely in his seat any longer. He saw Aza nod in the corner of his eye as she stood, a look of concern and fear making its way onto her frail features.
"They are coming; I can feel it, Aragorn. They have sensed the Rings presence and now they are coming for it!" Azalynne looked down at her hands, hating herself inside for not seeing this sooner.
"Ready a room, Aza, make it seem as if the Halflings are asleep in the beds. I have a plan and it should not fail. I will find Frodo."
The brunette hurried up the stairs, jamming the key into the well crafted lock as she opened the door to the room. She walked inside, grabbing a pillow off each bad and stuffing them in under the covers. After fluffing them out a bit to make them seem more alive she grabbed more cushions from the corner of the room and rested them under the 'sleeping forms' to make it appear a little more believable.
A clatter came from outside the door and soon the wooden access was thrown open. A petrified little Frodo was dragged in by the arm as the Ranger came in, hood still up and shadowing his face.
The half-man was thrown down beside the fire with great force, sending him hurling to the ground with a painful thud.
"Ooh, Frodo!" Aza gathered the small being in her arms as he trembled, scared of what was to happen to him.
"What do you want?" He croaked out, glaring at the man who had apparently tried to hurt him. The man moved over to the lit candles, pinching them to put them out, hoping that the little 'riot' downstairs would be forgotten.
"A little more caution from you; that is no trinket you carry." The man let down his hood, showing a mass of thin black hair and a pair of un- shadowed blue eyes.
"What do you want?" Frodo stammered stunned from what had just happened to him.
"A little more caution from you, I'm sure." The Elf scolded.
"That is no trinket you carry." Strider stated motioning to the ring cradled in Frodo's hand. This caught the Hobbits attention some and he sat; bolt upright, in Aza's arms. He then stood, eyeing the Ranger with suspicion.
"I carry nothing." Frodo lied, backing away past the She-Elf's form on the floor.
"Indeed. I can avoid being seen if I wish but to disappear entirely, now that is a rare gift."
"Who are you?" The frightened Halfling asked, wondering if he should have said anything at all. The man came closer, bearing down at him with a stern face.
"Are you frightened?" Strider asked, looking towards Aza as she lifted herself from the ground to go and sit on one of the beds. There was a small pause as Frodo thought the question over in his mind. It was telling him to say 'no', to stand up for himself and be strong for he did have a skilled Elvish friend, seated not to far away. But that was the thing. She was seated and gave the impression that she did not care for his well-being.
"Yes," He blurted before he could think any longer.
"Not nearly frightened enough," Strider avowed, trudging over to the window. He glanced down to the people below as they went about their nightly business; drinking and laughing with friends, not aware of what was to come. "I know what hunts you."
"Do not scare him any further, old friend, for I fear the worst will be brought out by this." The cerulean eyed female muttered, sending a small fleeting look over to the confused Ring bearer.
Immediately the door swung open and Strider drew his sword. The other Hobbits were seen, Pippin with a stool in hand, Merry with the candles and Sam with his fists up, ready to fight for his best friend.
"Let him go or I'll have you Longshanks!" The blond threatened, his teeth bared and tone unfriendly. Aragorn frowned down at him, putting the sword away. He looked over to Aza who had a grin from ear to ear as she warmly greeted the scene.
"You have a stout heart, little one." The brunette laughed, taking a quick look at the human man that stood before them. He did not find it quite as amusing as she and warned;
"That will not save you." He then turned back to the Hobbit he had grabbed from downstairs, "You can no longer wait for the Wizard, Frodo. They are coming."
*
The small group had settled into bed, unable to keep their open any longer. Azalynne and Strider sat by the window, awaiting the arrival of the foul creatures from earlier that day. Aza's Elfish ears helped her pick up a few sounds; the screeching of the riders in black and the voice of the Gatekeeper. She heard as he opened the gate but was knocked down, forced into the ground by the weight of the large wooden entrance. She listened to the sound of his bones crushing under the horses hooves as the Rider rode into Bree, searching for their masters desired Ring of Power.
She no longer needed her ears as she saw the Ringwraiths rounded a corner. They approached the Inn where they were told to wait for Gandalf, and plodded up the wooden stairs to the Hobbit Rooms.
Through the window you could see a rider stand above each bed, drawing their swords and lifting them over the 'sleeping bodies'. In unison they plunged their swords into them, appearing as if they killed those who rested in those beds.
When they pulled back the covers on each of the beds they found nothing but feathered pillows underneath. Angered and agitated they stormed out of the Inn, swords still drawn in front of them. The black riders climbed onto their stallions and rode off, going to tell their master of the news.
Back in the room across the road, the Hobbits awoke, hearing the uproar in the old area where they were to sleep before the meeting with Strider and the incident with the Ring.
"What are they?" Frodo breathed, his eyes showing pure curiosity and disgust for those life forms, whatever they were. Aragorn tore his gaze from the retreating backs of the Ringwraiths as they rode off into the night, momentarily looking at the boy's small form in the bed, now sitting between Merry and Sam, who also had a look of wonderment on bother their faces.
"They were once men," Aza started, gazing sadly out of the window, watching as her breath would leave a small fog on the glass before disappearing. "Great Kings of men."
"Then Sauron the Deceiver gave them nine rings of power. Blinded by their greed they took them without question; one by one, falling into darkness. Now they are slaves to his will. They are the Nazgul, Ringwraiths. Neither living nor dead." Aragorn continued lowering his head for a moment as something clawed at the back of his mind. He had a look of disgrace on his face but none of the other five were sure why.
"They are drawn to the power of the Ring; they will never stop hunting you so long as you possess it." Aza muttered, realizing that Aragorn would not be the one to continue.
*
It was finally sun break and the six were off, now traveling with a pony; Bill. They had to travel as light as they could for they were headed for a long journey. Azalynne skipped along, ahead of the others, a few paces in front of the Ranger. She took in a great breath of air, enjoying herself fully and jumped down from the great rock that she had climbed up earlier to settle herself back into step with her old acquaintance.
"Where are you taking us?" Frodo asked, trying to watch for jagged stones and nettles that grew out of the ground. He moved steadily over the dirt and grass as he and the others followed behind the new comer into their small group.
"Into the wild!" Aza answered, laughing as she flipped off yet another rock which she had managed to mount.
"How do we know this 'Strider' is a friend of Gandalf's?" Merry asked, suspicion and disbelief dripping into his every word as he whispered to Frodo just a few steps ahead of him.
"We have no choice but to trust him. Besides, Azalynne seems to be enjoying his company." Frodo pointed out, regarding the way that the said Elf was walking backwards so she could speak with this man. He looked as if he was enjoying himself as well for he laughed roughly at something she had mentioned.
"But where is he leading us?" Sam strained, pulling on Bill's reigns, trying to get the pony to stop grazing.
"To Rivendell, Master Gamgee, to the House of Elrond." Aragorn informed, not turning to meet anyone's gaze.
"Did you hear that? Rivendell! We're going to see the Elves!" Sam cheered, glancing up with a wide smile on his face.
"Glad to know you know what I am..." Aza scoffed, frowning at the chubby half-man.
"All I meant was we're of to see the fairer-"
"Oh, so I'm not fair!? Thank you, Sam, make an Elf feel welcomed!"
They continued on their way, the path becoming easier as they marched over more grassy areas. At one point in the small trip, however, there was a stall. Strider and Azalynne kept their pace but hearing no feet scurry along behind them they turned to find the Hobbits readying themselves for a meal.
"Gentlemen, we do not stop 'till nightfall!" Aragon stated, watching as the creatures unpacked pans and plates.
"What about breakfast?" Pippin asked, a little unsure of what to think.
"You've already had." The man pointed out after clearly seeing them eat that morning. The tallest of the Hobbits, Merry, had even had the liberty of stealing his potato.
"We've had one, yes. What about Second Breakfast?" Pippin questioned. The Ranger just sighed and turned to walk away. Their Elvish friend came down beside them to help put the pans and things away so that they may continue on. They did, after all, have seven days until their eyes would rest on the beauty held by Rivendell.
"I don't think he knows about Second Breakfast, Pip." Merry indicated, giving his a half-glance sideways as he fastened his bag.
Pippin looked unbelieving at this, his face holding a certain shock. He ran hastily up beside the taller one, turning him around and began naming off the different meals that any normal Hobbit would have during the day.
"What about elevenses? Luncheon? Afternoon Tea? Dinner? Super? He knows about them, doesn't he?" Pip tried, shooting questions at the other as heard his stomach give a growl.
"He's a Ranger, Pippin, I wouldn't count on it!" Azalynne giggled, helping Sam pull the pony along, brushing his caramel coat softly as she attempted to get him to move faster.
Unexpectedly an apple flew through the air towards the two arguing cousins. Merry turned in time to see the apple before he caught it after which he handed to Pippin to feed his hungry belly.
He turned, giving the light haired Hobbit a pat on the shoulder and the walked away, pursuing the new guide. Another apple then flew, hitting poor Pippin in the head. The Halfling looked up and then around, truly bewildered.
"Pippin!" Merry called over his shoulder, snapping the younger one out of his state of shock. Aza trailed behind, leaning down without stopping to pick the fallen fruit off the ground.
It was now nearing nightfall and the Hobbits required rest for the coming hours of darkness. Strider stopped up ahead, seeing the ruins of Amon Sul before him in the fading night sky.
"This was the great watchtower of Amon Sul," He breathed, now facing Aza who had an interested look about her. "We shall rest here tonight." He then announced, looking back at the struggling beings.
They made it to the great stone tower, the Hobbits resting down in a corner while Strider reached into his bag to collect something.
"These are for you," He said, unfolding the cloth to reveal four small Elven swords, well crafted for war. "Keep them close. Aza and I are going to have a look around so stay here."
Aza have a nod and soon the two were off, both in different directions. The Elf maid stayed closer to the Hobbits, though, incase she was needed for emergency. Finding non she went a little further down, inspecting every rock, every plant and every stream of water in and around the small ruined town.
The child chuckled as she heard Pip cry out; "Oh, that's nice, you've got ahs in my tomatoes!" but the feeling soon died as she sensed the Nazgul nearing. She looked up seeing Strider in the distance. After a few attempts to signal to him, he got the message and ran as fast as his legs would take him to the resting place of the Halflings. Both of them knew they wouldn't get there before the Wraiths but they had to try.
"Hurry, Aragorn! We cannot let them die to these foul creatures of the earth!" Aza called, drawing her sword from her back. She felt something brush by her as she raced up the stony hill.
Aragon was soon beside her, torch in one hand and sword in the other. "Take this! Burn them when you have the chance and do not fear the blaze for it will only burn you greater then!"
"Thank you for your words of such comfort!" Aza took the torch she was offered and headed up to the top of the tower. There then came a cry of pain from who was recognized to be Frodo as she and Strider made it to the top.
Strider leaped at the Witch-King, swinging his sword, trying to move him away from the Ring Bearer.
One of the Nazgul swung it's sword at the Elf from behind but the girl managed to jump out of the way. Instead, she jumped onto his shoulders, jabbing her bladed into the monsters head from above. The creature fell and she flipped off, tossing her torch at another of the Wraiths.
When she turned, the Dark Rider she was said to have killed had disappeared. Her eyes searched for it but finding nothing she gave up and continued to help Aragorn fight off the demon creatures.
Another came from behind her, burning from the arms down. It tried to grab for her but missed. Coming closer still she backed away further, fearing the flames that grew on the Wraiths cloak.
"STRIDER!" She cried, her back coming into contacted with a stone behind her. She had nowhere to move, stuck between rock and death. Just as the Wraith closed in the sound of a sword being swung was heard. With a sigh of relief the Elf jumped backwards, leaping onto the stone she was up against before. Aza gave a thankful nod to the man below her as he turned to see only one of the enemy still standing.
The two fighters looked at one another, each giving a broad grin. Aragorn lifted his torch and Azalynne her silver dagger. In unison they both tossed their weapons at the last Wraith, sending it screeching and burning in the hood down the cold, damp path to its mount.
"Strider! Help him Strider!" Sam cried, trying to comfort Frodo as the wound now seen below his left shoulder blade. The elder brunette rushed to his side, lifting him from the others into a soft hold. She watched as the warrior lifted the sword that had inflicted this wound into such a frail creature.
"He was stabbed by a Morgul Blade." The Hobbit whimpered, gasping for breath at the same moment as he felt his life fade.
"No, Frodo! Stay with us!" Aza begged, holding the little one closer.
"Can't you heal him? You are and Elf after all." Merry asked, choking on his words as he watched his friend suffer so.
"I am merely a child, Meriadoc; I know not such strong skills as healing of yet. I can do nothing." She gazed sadly down at the anguishing boy. A single tear ran down her cheek, dropping delicately onto the abrasion. For one short moment the pain seemed to subside but in the next he was screaming. Everyone looked up at Aragorn, some form of hope residing in each of their eyes but he only shook his head.
"This is beyond my skill to heal, he needs Elvish medicine." Aragorn took Frodo from the present Elf's arms and carried him over his shoulder. "Hurry!" He called back. Aza got the others to their feet but Pip seemed to stay in the ground or he would fall.
"You are truly hurting for him, aren't you?" A voice asked, breaking through his thoughts. He looked up and found only Aza standing above him. She held out a hand and he took it, leaning on her for support.
"Do not fear, Peregrin, he will live through this for he bears the Ring. If only my sister were here, she has stronger magic than I; she would know what to do."
The group rushed along, following with hurried steps as they worried about Frodo and whether or not he would live to see the light of morning.
"We're six days from Rivendell! He'll never make it!" Sam shouted, tears streaking down his cheeks as Frodo continued to writhe in ache.
"Hold on Frodo." Aragorn soothed, rubbing the poor souls back. The boy shivered, the pain now filling his body. He was too sore to think but one thing did cross his mind. He cried out, calling for the only person he could think of at the moment: "GANDALF!!!"
A few feet away they rested, the Ranger lighting another torch, looking around for something. Frodo was rested on the ground, his eyes blurring as he looked up to see the stone figures of three monstrous trolls, the ones Bilbo had described in his stories.
"He's going cold." Sam muttered, feeling his friend's cheeks and forehead.
"Is he going to die?" Pippin sniffed, looking watery eyed at Strider.
"He's passing into the Shadow World. He'll soon become a Wraith like them." Aragorn explained, his eyes still searching. The screech of the Nazgul came, very close now as they sensed the presence of the Ring.
"They're close." Aza mumbled, narrowed her eyes at him, the feeling of the lifeless souls of the creatures nearing sickening her.
"Sam," Aragorn turned, calling for the gardener, "Do you know the Athelas plant?"
"Athelas?" The Hobbit questioned, staring in puzzlement.
"Kingsfoil?" The older man offered, remembering the more common name of the plant he considered necessary.
"Kingsfoil..." Sam ran the name through his head then recalled the look of it, "Ay, it's a weed!"
"It may help to slow the poison." Aza muttered, loving the idea as she rocked the hurting Hobbit in her arms, trying to calm him even just in the least.
The gardener looked from Ranger to Elf, not understanding what they wanted of him.
"Find us this plant and hurry!" Aragorn instructed, pulling out a small cutting knife and moving into the trees. He raced on, his eyes searching for any sign of the healing herb. Taking the knife in his hand he cut some off but when he went back for some more he felt the tip of a sword at his throat. Fearing the worst he reached for his, his hand clamping over it in a tight grip.
"What's this," The voice came, soft and light, clearly female, "a Ranger caught off his guard?" The voice teased as the sword was removed. A small sigh of relief was heard and the Ranger stood, letting go of his weapon.
Back at the sight of the three trolls, Azalynne sat, clearly out of ideas on how to sooth the suffering boy. The sound of hooves came out from the darkness as a white stallion came crashing through the bushes and into view. The rider jumped off and came towards Frodo, motioning for the Elf child to rest him on the ground.
"Frodo, Im Arwen. Telin le thaed. Lasto beth n?n tolo dan na ngalad [11]." The woman spoke, kneeling down next to the Halfling. She lifted his head off the ground, cradling it in her hands as she inspected him.
"Who is she?" Merry asked his eyes wide as he knew the answer but couldn't stop the question.
"She's an Elf." Sam stated, seeing the ears peaking out through the dark strands of hair.
"Frodo?" The Elf maiden asked, trying to reach him but failing. "He's fading, he's not going to last. We must get him to my father." She carried the Hobbit to her horse, Aza scurrying along behind them, trying to understand what was going on. "I've been looking for you for two days." The elder Elf maiden stated as Aragorn held Frodo up on the white steed.
"Where are you taking him?" Sam cried but his question went unnoticed by all as the two lovers continued talking.
"There are five Wraiths behind you! Where the other four are I do not know." Arwen said, gazing into the blue eyes opposite hers.
"Dartho guin Berian, Rych le ad tolthathon [12]." Aragorn said in the true Elvish tongue as a stunned Elvin child glared up a him.
"Hon mabathon. Rochon ellint im [13]." Arwen shot back, knowing she was winning this argument by a lot. Her eyes pierced his for one small moment before he come up with an excuse to keep her safe: "Andelu i ven [14]."
What are they saying?" One of the three less hurt Hobbits asked, watching the scene with interested eyes.
"Frodo fir. Ae athradon i hir, tur gwaith n?n beriatha hon [15]." Arwen said, her spirit not fading as she knew the man was only trying to keep her alive. They were in love, after all. "I do not fear them." She assured, giving him a strong gaze.
"Be iest lin [16]." Strider mumbled, regretting the words that he spoke but knowing that she was right, she could get Frodo to safety faster, no matter what the cost. "Arwen, ride hard. Don't look back!" The Ranger instructed while the female mounted the horse. The woman smiled down at him with care in her eyes as she held onto Frodo who sat in front of her, making it easier for him not to fall off when riding.
"Noro lim, Asfaloth, noro lim [17]!"
"What're you doing!? Those Wraiths are still out there!" Sam shouted when Arwen rode off into the darkness. Azalynne watched as the two disappeared from view. Her mind was telling her to stay but her hearts will told her to go with them, to follow along with the promise she had made to herself.
"I will not let Frodo down." She whispered to herself, clutching her silver ring in her hands. "I will protect him with all the strength I have in this world and more!" She said a little louder. The ring began to let off a faint glow. Her hand opened and the ring floated in the air for a few moments before it slipped itself onto her finger.
"An garrad shi neen cur al gin waith [18]." She chanted, the same faint glow forming around her. Soon the light grew and her body started to ach, a pain so great over took her then and her body began to change. Her skin stretched and her hair grew thin and short, growing on her hands, arms and legs. Her ears shrunk into the side of her head while new ones appeared on the top. Her nose grew longer and her eyes glazed over...
The light grew small and soon faded but Aza was no where to be found. Instead, in her place was a small brown and grey wolf, looking ahead with keen and eager eyes.
"W-what happened!?" Merry screamed out, looking at the wolf in a fearful way.
"Her ring." Aragorn said casually, seeing this happen before when he visited her home country. He gave her a pat, ruffling her fur and running his hand along her back before he whispered to her,
"Find him and watch him. Let nothing happen to the two for I fear the worst." The canine gave a bark and then darted off in the same direction as the two others before her. Her speed had increased quite a lot during the transformation and her hearing grew as well.
She saw through the darkness the great white horse and the two riders but she also picked up a sent that gave her a grave feeling. Running faster she managed to catch up to the Elf and Hobbit -who seemed not to recognize her- and kept a watchful eye on what was around them.
It was now mid-morning; they had been in the clear all night but soon... soon they would be chased and wouldn't be able to hold the Wraiths back, that is, if they were all there. The wind picked up and the sin shone bright in the sky but the beauty went unnoticed as thoughts of hurt and death filled the minds of the three. It was nearing afternoon and the screeching became louder and, after barely a minute or so of waiting, the Dark Riders were upon them.
"Arwen! Hurry on, they approach us fast!" The Wolfen-Elf spoke, though her mouth did not move. The dark haired maiden did not have time to question the other now; she only had time to escape. They ran, through bush and through stream, trying without success to lose the black-hearted riders that pursued them.
"Noro lim, Asfaloth!" Arwen cried, ducking as she passed a hanging branch. One of the riders reached out for Frodo, nearly grasping the young ones cloak but the River Elf moved away quickly, out of the mans reach.
They were nearing the river; Azalynne could smell its fresh water and hear it rush over the stones at its edge. After finally reaching the clearing she saw it. The three of them hurried, the stallion pushing itself to continue as the other horses beckoned it to stop. Its pace quickened and before long he had managed to get his master to the other side, the wolf still beside him. Arwen turned Asfaloth to face their trailers and, holding up her sword she glared, challenging them to step foot in the water.
The nine stopped before the river, gazing across at the tired stallion and his riders.
"Give up the Halfling, She-Elf!" One managed to scratch out, his voice still barely over a whisper. It seemed that it hadn't been used since the day he had decided to become what he is now.
"If you want him, come and claim him!" Arwen cried, her voice holding a certain threat and hate in it. The riders shrieked again and then began to move forward. Sensing their unease, Aza began to wonder, trying to open her mind to any of the spells she had overheard her father teaching her elder sisters at one of their Spells lessons.
"Arwen, call for the Loudwaters from the Misty Mountains! They are your only way to defeat these evil creatures!" The Ralgonnian Elf maiden finally concluded, remembering vaguely what her father had said about those still clinging to life after death.
The other Elfin agreed, lowering her sword slightly. Aza's mind filled with the words but she couldn't put them in any sort of order and could only give them to her new friend in the way she had them now. Able to recall the chant needed, Arwen called on the power of her people to guide her through and began to chant what she memorized.
"Nin o Chithaelgir, lasto beth daer, Rimmo n?n Bruinen dan in Ulaer [19]!" The waters began to rise and the waves began to quicken. Soon, through the thick rocks of the mountain side they could hear the great wave coming. And come it did. The Nazgul tried to hurry downstream but the race of water formed into the heads of horses caught up with them and soon they were lost under the tide, choking on the liquid though they knew they would not die. Aza transformed back to her normal state, her eyes not leaving the sight before her as the Wraiths were swept downstream and, in her mind, never to be seen again.
Just then Frodo gave a gasp, sucking in the air he needed with great trouble. The two Elves laid him down on the dirt floor of the forest, looking him over with great worry weighing in their hearts. After a few more gasps and whimpers it seemed that he began to choke for the air.
"No! NO! Frodo no! Frodo, don't give in! Not now!" The elder of the two begged, tears welling up in her eyes as the held the small one close to her. Aza sat beside her, wiping his forehead of the sweat and dirt.
"What grace is given me, let it pass to him. Let him be spared. Save him..." She whispered, staring up at the sky with watery eyes as she let the tears fall, some hitting the Hobbits cheeks and traveling down his chin to the ground.
*
"Lasto beth n?n, tolo dan gan ngalad," The voice spoke strong, relieving Frodo of all the aches and pains he had to bear in the past few hours. A face, clearly that of an Elf's, surrounded by a bright white light was all that Frodo had time to see before the darkness took him and his worries left...
YEAH! CHAPTER THREE IS DONE! MAN, THIS WAS THE HARDEST ONE YET ONLY BECAUSE I HAD NO IDEA HOW TO DESCRIBE IT ALL! WELL, I SORT OF MANAGED TO SO I HOPE YOU LIKED IT! REVIEW ME SOON!
Chapter Three (3) will be posted alone Chapter Four (4) + Chapter Five (5) will be posted together
[9]- Aza has met Aragorn before when he visited her home country long ago. They are not the best of friends but they are friends all the same. Throughout the journey of the One Ring, Aragorn treats her like a little child and almost sister in a way, feeling this great need to watch out for her.
[10]- Diolch lye- Thank you in Ralgonnian. I took the Elvish word 'lle' (meaning 'you') and made a new word with it, not wanting to be too far off and then I took the Welsh word 'Diolch' (Meaning 'thank').
This is for those of you who couldn't catch exactly what they said in the movie because they are sub-title! Anywho, here it is:
[11]- Frodo, Im Arwen. Telin le thaed. Lasto beth n?n tolo dan na ngalad- 'I am Arwen. I've come to help you. Hear my voice, come back to the light.' in Elvish
[12]- Dartho guin Berian, Rych le ad tolthathon- 'Stay with the Hobbits, I will send horses for you.' in Elvish.
[13]- Hon mabathon. Rochon ellint im- 'I'm the faster rider. I'll take him.' in Elvish.
[14]- Andelu i ven- 'the road is too dangerous' in Elvish.
[15]- Frodo fir. Ae athradon i hir, tur gwaith n?n beriatha hon- 'Frodo is dying. I f I can get him across the river the power of my people will protect him.' in Elvish.
[16]- Be iest lin- 'According to your wish' in Elvish.
[17]- Noro lim, Asfaloth, noro lim- 'Ride fast, Asfaloth, ride fast' in Elvish.
[18]- An garrad shi neen cur al gin waith- 'In nature shine with beasts of old and become what their hearts feared most' in Ancient Ralgonnian Elvish.
[19]- Nin o Chithaelgir, lasto beth daer, Rimmo n?n Bruinen dan in Ulaer- 'Waters of the Misty Mountains listen to the great word: flow waters of Loudwater against the Ringwraiths.' in Elvish.
© Script for the dialogue that many will recognize from the motion picture 'The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'. The script is taken from the site following:
http://dreamwater.net/seatofkings/script_fotr_pics.html
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Quick summary for the next chapter:
Ch. 4: A Flash of Waters Red (Rivendell, Council of Elrond, Spies of Saruman)
