Title: The Promise of Farewell
Authoress: ChibiTari
Rating: PG/ PG-13
Warnings: Action, OC, humor and hinted romance!
= Dear Mickey,
After extensive research I finally found out who Glorifindel is. Had I known I would have used him, but seeing as I still have not read the books I am at a loss and going by what the movie has done. That and the 'movie' thing sorta has to be done because I have something coming up after the end of 'The Promise of Farewell' which could prove to be very interesting... Sorry to have disappointed you =
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.
Ruby belongs to Laura V Lopez who has graciously allowed me to use her character in this fic, THANK YOU!
Summary: Azalynne Driftwood decided to protect Frodo with her life but when things become hard, can she keep this promise?
I know that this chapter may get a little confusing seeing as we're now traveling to the country which I have made up but I tried to put as much information as possible to please you all! The amount of characters being introduced is truly unbelievable but, I swear, after the Fellowship of the Ring (A.K.A Part I) there will be no more new characters! Only Aza and four others will stay!
Enjoy the fic!
Chapter five (5): Mountain Everlasting
They had ventured up the steep paths of the mountain and Azalynne was still in a deep sleep. Legolas kept a firm hold on her as he walk over the snow with light feet.
"There is an even pathway up ahead! I'm sure we could use it and walk in an easier pace!" The Elf prince said, calling over the small head of mahogany hair to see the rest of the Fellowship struggling to get through the snow. As he continued on ahead he shifted the weight of the girl on his back from one side to the other, trying to keep her comfortable at the same time as keep her safe.
A sudden cry from behind the two Elves caused Legolas to turn around and see as Frodo tripped over his own feet, sending him rolling down the small slope.
"Frodo!" Aragorn yelled, rushing to the Ring bearer's side, helping him to his feet again. Frodo brushed the snow from his clothes then began to search around in his cloak for the Ring. In the lead of him he saw Boromir bend down to collect the Ring by the silver chain it now hung from.
Aragorn removed the protective hold he had on Frodo's shoulders to place his hand on the hilt of his sword, preparing himself for anything that was to follow.
"Boromir," He said, his voice holding some threat.
"It is a fate that we should suffer so much fear and doubt over so small a thing. Such a little thing." The man moved his left hand towards the Ring itself, wanting to touch it even once. It seemed that he was unable to control his movements, similar to that of a puppet and its master.
"Boromir, give the Ring to Frodo!" It seemed to work, Boromir withdrew from the spell, returning to his reality. He marched carefully down to Frodo and Aragorn, who was still ready for attack.
"As you wish," He held the Ring in front of Frodo and the Hobbit grabbed it, fixing the chain back onto his neck securely. "I care not." With that the azure eyed man ruffled the Hobbits dark mane then made a move to where he stood before.
"We should never have ventured here; the Hobbits are not used to such conditions! Anymore faults and they may find themselves at the foot of the mountain with not a breath to spare!" Gimli muttered, watching Merry and Sam struggle to help Pippin up the slope.
"Gandalf! Something draws near!" Legolas shouted, hearing the sound of low growls and deep barking as creatures of the snowy peak approached.
"What's happening, Gandalf?" Pippin asked, his body beginning to shake violently. Merry held his cousin close, trying to keep him warm at the very most for he knew that he could not help another with their fears when he too was frightened of what was to come.
"The snowy Wolves of Caradhras. They are far stronger than any Warg. They're the Conevall [29]."
"The Wolves of Ralgonnia? They exist!?" Gimli demanded, raising his axe.
"And with Azalynne in her condition she will not be able to help us!" Aragorn muttered he unsheathed his sword, moving in front of Frodo so no harm could come to him.
The snarling was close now, soon the Conevall would be upon them, and there would be no escaping their attack. Sensing something from his right, the flaxen haired Elf let one of his arrows fly. He heard a howl of pain and directly before him he saw the creature fall, its blood staining its white death bed.
The death of one of their kin angered the Wolves to a greater level and in just mere moments the Fellowship was surrounded. The creatures bounded down the icy slope jumping over any arrows sent their way.
Aragorn swung his sword aggressively as one attacked suddenly. He managed to kill it but not before it bit down, sinking its jaws into the flesh of his left arm.
Legolas was knocked backwards as one pounced, kicking with its hind legs. The fall caused him to lose hold of Aza. The child was sent skidding until she was stopped by one of the snowy coated creatures. His paw covered her stomach as he licked his lips but when he leaned in to taste his meal his mouth filled with blood. Shrieking in pain he swayed forward then to the side, nearly sending one of the Hobbits close by off the cliff.
"Sam!" Merry hollered, grabbing the blond by the wrist, but it was no use; he was slipping from his grip. "Grab my other hand! Hurry!"
"I can't reach!" The other cried back, his voice trembling. He couldn't hold on and he knew his friend was running low on strength. Nobody else was able to come to their aid as they were trying to ward off the Conevall.
"SAM!" The Brandybuck screamed, watching as his hold failed and the boy fell. Something rushed by him, making a jump off the crest, leaping skillfully from rock to rock that stuck out from the mountainside. As soon as the creature was beneath the Halfling he stopped, waiting for the hazel eyed boy to fall atop of him.
Now Merry could see the creature with clear eyes, its wind tossed fur which was now graying in areas, lightening the now black coat. The golden eyes gazed up at him, holding some form of victory as he slowly and carefully made his way back to the safer ground beside Meriadoc. Sam held on, his fingers grasping clumps of dark fur, trying not to look at the distance between them and the hard ground below. Once secure he climbed off, falling in a heap beside his friend, seeing the creature run off to the aid of the other members in the Fellowship. From what he could tell that wolf was not the only one there to aid them.
"Who are they?" Frodo breathed, panting as he came up adjacent to his comrades. "And why do they help us?"
"I don't know, Mr. Frodo, but I reckon they can't be the baddies 'ere! That black hound saved me!" Sam all but stuttered out. From out of nowhere a silver gemmed dagger flew past them to another of the attacking mongrels. It hurled into the monsters chest, stopping it from springing on the small Half-men.
"Where did that come from!?" Pippin cried, turning in all directions to look for the keeper of the weapon. His question was answered when his eyes lay upon the form of a crimson haired Elf Maiden. Her hair blew in the wind, covering her face slightly from view.
"Lly rhaid brysio! Nir dyfod e'heiyaise [30]!" She called down to the smaller wolf clan. They looked up and, with one last kill; they fled, running over the pass to stand behind the maid. The woman's eyes traveled over the sight with a saddened expression. Her gaze soon rested upon the Elfling as she lay, whimpering and battered on the snowy floor. Legolas made a move to get her but the emerald eyed woman reached her before he could take a step forward.
"Aza, stay with me. Do not let the darkness win!" She breathed, watching as the girls face slowly became insipid.
Legolas drew his bow, the arrow's point digging into her middle back. "Put the child down or this will be your last day."
"Do you threaten me, Legolas Greenleaf of the Woodland realm?" The red head scoffed, her eyes flashing silver for a second before returning to their normal colour.
"Where do you take her, Elf Maid? Speak or it will be your head!" The Dwarf intimidated.
"Are you sure about that, Gimli, son of Gloin? I doubt you could reach this far up to even touch the hair on my head, now follow me or you shall be left in the cold to die!"
"Why should we follow-?" Pippin's question was cut short as distant a bark was heard, "Let's go with her!" He cried, racing up beside the maid.
"Gandalf, we must hurry down at a quick speed for things shadow my mind, Saruman the White is at work again, I can feel it. The Conevall in these parts are quite tame, they would not attack unless some evil was roaming the lands." The woman spoke when the Wizard caught up with her. They climbed wearily up the hill where she had come down to stand at its peak. They waited a moment as the Men collected the Hobbits, lifting them with sore arms and leisurely stepping up the icy hillside.
Still unsure if the Elf should be trusted, Gimli kept a sharp eye on the back of her head, waiting for any sudden movements on her part but none came and after nearly twenty minutes of watching he lowered his axe and walked instep with the others.
"I do not feel that she is of any harm to us, son of Gloin, for she carries the child with tender arms." Legolas spoke softly, resting a trusting hand on the Dwarfs shoulder.
The maid led them down a narrow path behind the mountain, the wolf clan trailing them as they walked. The snow seemed to melt away and the temperature became slightly warmer. Tree tops could now be seen, the leaves green and thick and beyond the wide forest came the sparkle of water in the midday sun.
"Where do you lead us, Maid of Elves?" Boromir queried, stumbling over a small stone in his way.
"I lead you to Ralgonnia, that land of the Sea Elves. There you shall take rest, feast and heal from whatever wounds that have been inflicted upon you." Aragorn covered his lesion with one of his hands, trying to stop the blood that dripped down his arm, now blemishing his black tunic.
*
Nightfall was now upon them as they were lead into the heart of a forest, the Wizard talking to the She-Elf as if they had known each other for a lifetime. The wolves howled and barked, chasing each other down the dirt road.
"Um... Ms. Elf?" Frodo started, a little unsure if there was any name given or not.
"Please, call me Kai; I would much prefer that to any of the things they call me back home."
"Kai... Are we close to Ralgonnia yet?" The sapphire eyed Hobbit asked, not meeting the woman's gaze.
"Yes, the Blue Gate is just up ahead, do you not see it?"
"No," Merry said, squinting hard to see if he was missing something.
"Good then, it still remains a secret. Araine shall be our sign and then you will know whether or not we have far to go." To complete her statement a few paces ahead another of the Sea Elves emerged. This one was dressed in a robe of scarves and carried a sword. Her hair was silver and her eyes a shade of navy.
"Prawf ri' n'yla berlewyg [31]," She spoke her eyes falling upon the ill form of Azalynne.
"The Elf child was in the presence of Crebain, she has fallen ill, you must let her in for treatment." Gandalf said, expecting to be let in with this new information but the woman stood her ground, raising the sword in her hand, stopping him from moving any further in. One of the hounds with a coat of soft brown gave a bark and moved to stand beside the silver headed Elf.
"No entrance without some sort of proof that you are to be here. I wish to see the mark!"
"Araine, re ydyw engwar [32]. You know I am friend, please." Araine nodded. She moved forward and pressed her hand against an invisible lock. Under her breath she whispered the spell that could unlock the indiscernible entrance. A light then shone through what must have been a crack between the two gates.
"Come and behold the beauty of our land. But, Master Elf of the Woodland Realm, expect no pleasant greetings for your kind are hated amongst our people. I give you fair warning." The silver haired Maiden said, frowning as he passed her. Legolas stayed close to Aragorn and Gandalf not wanting to be to well noticed by most of the Elves that roamed the city freely. Frodo looked over his shoulder to see the most spectacular and unusual sight one could see. Where there were once wolves now stood Elf men, all dressed in silver amour, blue leggings and mithril from the Dwarves in the caves under the mountain.
"Wh- what just happened!?" The boy coughed, staring at the group as they marched by him, singing and laughing, seemingly without a care.
"The guards of our country hold many secrets Master Frodo. Each holds the gift to transform himself into a beast of the wild to blend in easier and trick the enemy for a strong attack." Kai explained, seeing the look of shock present on his face.
"This is truly one of few Elvish cities with such magic." He breathed.
"It is the only city with such magic for the queen is a Maid of the Valar. A half God, if you will." Araine said, following closely behind to make sure everyone was in. She stopped short at the length of the gate and bid her friend farewell the turned.
The Hobbits jumped as they heard the Blue Gates close with a creak but when they turned back to see the Elf maid and the Gates they had entered by they saw nothing but homes of white stone and the Ocean of Ekkaia that led to the lands of Valinor to the west.
"Welcome, Mr. Frodo, to the Land of Myriad Waters... To Ralgonnia..." The scarlet haired She-Elf said, her voice turning soft as she spoke to the Halflings. Her face hardened again, though, as she turned back to face the Mith'quessir and walked by him, past the homes of the village square, past the many wondering eyes of the Ear'quessir and onward to the garden that circled the palace.
"Lady Kai-" Sam began, not knowing if he should or shouldn't continue on with the question that held in his mind.
"Just Kai, please-" The Elf corrected, a look of disgust crossing her features as the word 'Lady' was added to her name.
"Kai- How did we get from a forest to the Ocean so quick? The gate was in the idle of trees not anywhere near where the Ocean rested!"
"The Blue Gate is enchanted, Master Gamgee, once you walk through it you will be taken into the heart of Ralgonnia. It makes things far easier when visitors from distant lands decide to stopover. They don't have to walk the distance."
"And if we didn't go through the gates, what then?" Pippin inquired.
"You would be walking in circles through the forest of Caradhras."
They continued on, making there way along the stony path towards the inner palace gardens, soon to step onto the ashen stone of the bastion steps and into the Hall of Kings.
"Where is it that you wish to take us, Lady Elf? The village lies behind us, does it not?" Boromir asked, his head whirling around to see the waterside habitation.
"Indeed the village lies behind you but the palace lies ahead and that is where I lead you. What princess lives in the township square?"
"Princess? Are you the princess of this country?" The ginger headed Dwarf inquired his eyebrow raising slightly for she looked like no Royal. Her clothes were mere rags from what he could tell; the blue tunic she wore was torn at the sleeves and the sea green leggings that adorned her legs had holes in odd places. The belt that hung loosely over her hips was swathed in mud, making it seem as if she spent more time in the forest than she did at home.
"Princess Klicia, there you are! Where have you been, your father is furious!" Someone said, rushing out to meet the Fellowship. The woman seemed to be a hand-maiden of some sort for she wasn't dressed in the normal Elvish wear. Most of her hair was hidden under a light scarf and the dress she wore wasn't in the more beautiful colours you saw but rather in a dark blue.
"I am sorry, Merron. My sister needs help, she had fallen victim to the call of the Crebain. My father must heal her." Kai said in a hurried voice, shocking those who had followed her.
"Azalynne is... is your sister? But that means that-" Frodo tried to consume the information as best he could but his thoughts were spinning in circles.
"-means that she's a princess!" Pippin finished the thought for him, staring wide-eyed at the small Elfling in Kai's arms.
"Yes, the youngest daughter of King Llyr." Gandalf said, winking at the hand-maid as she carried Aza into the palace. The woman blushed but said nothing; instead she called out for another of the servants.
"Mayim, take the child to her sister. Princess Dilwen [33] must heal her for she is passing fast." The other maid nodded, taking the child down a long string of corridors into one of the rooms.
"Let us pray that Din can heal the little one." Kai muttered, staring at the place where her sister was taken off to.
"What about the king? Why did you not take her to him!? You said that he was the only one who can fully heal her!" Gimli cried, glaring over to the Elf princess.
"My sister is a better healer than my father; she learned his magic long before she learned to speak. Do not misjudge me again, Dwarf, or your days will end here."
"Lady Klicia, please, do not raise your voice, it isn't very lady-like." Merron said, a few of her chocolate curls falling over her eyes.
"I am no lady and I am no princess. I gave that title up long ago and do not wish to return to that path." With that said, Kai turned on her heal and marched out, off the palace grounds and back down to the village to play with the children there.
"Stubborn, that one is. Never does what she's told and that's why Lady Fareorer [34] is taking the throne, should anything happen to the King, of course." Merron said, huffing as she motioned for them to follow her.
*
That night a great feast was held where many of the Elves of that country were invited. The Fellowship sat together on one side, surrounded by the Ear'quessir as they chattered amongst themselves. The feast was held outside, in a clearing deep in the heart of the forest. Light came from the candles on the tables and the lamps hung on the trees.
Azalynne seemed much better, though she did not remember what had happened to her she was healthy again. She sat with Kai and her sister Din, the eldest of the four daughters.
Din was quite a beautiful sight, her red hair reached down her back in much the same fashion as most of the Elves of that country. Her eyes were blue in colour, the same as her youngest sisters. She was darker in skin tone than most her family but that made her all the more fascinating. Beside her sat her daughter, Rhonwen [34], food spilt all down her front. She was no more than six. The child was half-human, though, and this caused problems for the eldest daughter for now she could not take the throne.
Helping the small child with her food was the second youngest daughter of the king, Fareorer. Her hair seemed a dark shade of green, almost brown but in this light one couldn't be sure. Her eyes were the same shade as Klicia's and the shape of her face like her mothers, who was sitting at the head of the table, talking to a few of the servants.
Llyr stood, calling out for attention, glaring over at the prince of Mirkwood.
"We will eat this great feast in honor of those who have come amongst us to enjoy our lands and take rest from their long journey." He lifted his goblet in the air before bringing it to his lips.
"Here, here!" The Elves around the table cheered, doing the same as the music began to play. Some stayed to eat the feast presented to them while others pushed out their chairs, wandering over to dance. The Queen held a hand out to her husband, beckoning him to stand and join her in a dance. He shot a quick glance over to Din and Fareorer who only giggled and motioned for him to go.
"This is quite unlike most of the places I have visited," Boromir whispered to Gandalf, waiting for a response.
"That is because Ralgonnia isn't like other places, they are their own country. More free than the free peoples themselves! Each man woman and child has his or her own rules here but few tend to follow them..." The grey haired man chuckled, watching Aza and another of the Sea Elves fight over a piece of meat.
"Come, Aragorn, let us dance before the light of moon and waste the night away with careless thoughts!" An Elven maid yet to be introduced laughed, grabbing the Man by the arm and pulling him up.
"Do I have a choice my Lady?" He smiled.
"None whatsoever!" She smiled.
"And your name, if I may ask?"
"Myranore of the River. I come from the lands beyond and traveled through many a horrid night to arrive here!"
"And where did you travel from?" Strider managed to ask as he was tugged into a circle of Elves, all singing and moving with the music.
"Rivendell, friend, I tended to the needs of her Ladyship, Arwen Undomiel [35]!"
"Then why did you come to such a far away land such as this?" Aragorn asked, truly dumbfounded.
"'Tis more peaceful in this land of old. Lord Elrond was had far too many expectations for me and I never seemed to follow through so I ran!" The Elf answered, not in the least shaken by his many questions. She answered all with confidence and a strong heart as if to say 'I know where I have ventured and the roads I have taken and I remain proud!'
"If I may, I shall take my leave, my stomach calls for food, my Lady, I may return later." He bowed politely then turned to make his way back to the table. She didn't seem to mind as she took hold of another Elf man and they soon were laughing together.
"Hullo Strider! Dancing with Myranore I see, quite the exuberant one she is!" Azalynne laughed, biting into a piece of fruit.
"I would talk, sister, you tend to be a wee bit out of control at times..." Fareorer mumbled, smiling sweetly as she turned to look at Boromir.
"I resent that. Humph!" Aza slumped slightly in her seat, glaring ahead of her, trying not to say anything back.
Strider watched Myranore as she and a red haired Elf danced in the light of a well guarded fire.
"Argh, Isis [36] is at it again... He seems to love that girl, why does he not ask her to marry him?" Kai muttered, rolling her eyes as she, too, watched the scene in front of them.
"Who is Isis?" Sam asked, chewing on a piece of bread.
"Our brother..." The sisters chorused, glaring ahead of them at the man. He and Kai seemed a lot alike in appearance. Unlike the other Ralgonnian Elves neither of them had webbed ears, taking after their father in that area with the more common Sindarin ears. They both had red tresses and emerald eyes but he had a far more square face than she.
The King returned to the table, breathless as he laughed an almost drunken laugh. Collapsing in his chair he looked at the faces of the Fellowship, staring hard at the Ring Bearer most of all. After a few more intakes of air he stood, walking over to join the small group of companions.
"I wish to speak with you all to discuss the journey of the Ring. Come, follow me..."
*
The Fellowship now sat in a round, dome-shaped room, the ceiling painted with the images of the war long ago. In the centre of the room a round marble table was placed, the chairs now occupied with the bodies of the ten companions, Kai and the King.
"I called you here to discuss the journey of the Fellowship. The Ralgonnian Elves did not take part in the Council of Elrond for one reason; we do not wish to take part in the journey to Mordor. I-"
Kai stood, cutting him off before he had time to continue. "Father it is a destiny Aza and I must endure! You cannot stop the Twin Rings [37] from going south! You must let us go!" She argued but her father raised a hand to silence her before she could go on.
"It is a decision I have the right to make for you. I will not put the lives of my daughters on the line, I am sorry, but you must stay."
"King Llyr, why do you not keep the Ring here, no one would find it through the invisible gate?" Boromir stated, looking at the affect his suggestion had had on the King.
"Stay here? Did you not hear what Lord Elrond had to say about the Elves?"
"Father, he said nothing at the Council. I should know for I was there." Azalynne said as she cast the human a withering glare, his red locks blowing in a small breeze that came from an open window.
"Our kind is leaving. The Elves of this country travel to the west, to the Undying Lands. We do not stay here. We have no more power in these parts and enchantment keeping the gates unseen is fading. Our strength weakens as the days go by. We leave for the Western Shores on the dawn of the fourteenth month; we shall not stay and be slain."
"Father, Kai and I must leave, it is written in the old legends that the bearers of the Twin Rings follow the path of the One Ring, be it good or bad! You know this; the day mother gave us the Rings!" Aza protested, not liking how her reunion with her father was going as of late.
"I have heard the old tales, Azalynne, and none of them are good. You will follow me not as your father but as your King to the West!"
"Llyr, they must take the path they know is right. Both Kai and Aza cannot escape their destiny!" Gandalf hoped that maybe he could reach his old friend but nothing could change his mind.
"Gandalf, two of my daughters were given the responsibility to save this world and yet neither of them knows what this world can really be like! The cruelty shown to them is only but a taste of what goes on! I will not let them be slain by the hands of Saruman's forces!" Llyr took his seat again, not wanting this conversation to go any further than it already had.
"We must, we have no choice in the matter!" Klicia persisted, not wanting to let the subject go.
"They are right, we cannot escape our destinies. They will go with Frodo and protect the Ring until it is destroyed. They are the maidens of the Rings, Llyr, they have to." The Queen spoke, her voice high and soft, dreamlike in a way. The group turned in their seats to see her move lightly over the ground as if she was floating. She stopped when she reached the Kings side, gazing soothingly at the faces of her daughters.
"I know, Aisling [38], I just don't want to lose them to the fires of Mordor... But I know what fate has weaved for them..."
"So be it," The Queen said, "Azalynne and Klicia, you will travel with Frodo, protect him wherever his path may lead." The two Elven Princess' smiled; glad to know their mother was still an understanding woman.
*
And so it was, the next morning at the break of dawn the Fellowship left, Kai now traveling with them. Things were becoming harder, more confusing for the little ones.
Provisions were supplied by the Elves of the Sea and small farewell was given. They had reached the foot of the mountain, opposite to where they were just the morning before.
"We must climb the mountain again, from there we travel north, over the Mines of Moria." The Wizard said, holding his staff out in front of him, pointing it in the direction in which they were taking.
They had made it onto the snowy peak once again. A blizzard had started and the snow became deep. Legolas and the Elvin maids walked with ease over the snow but behind them the others were barely able to move. The Men held two Hobbits each for without their help the small creatures would be blown off the mountain.
Legolas walked stealthily over the snow but could not see more than a few inches in advance. The weather was worsening and soon the storm would really be upon them.
"There is a fell voice on the air!" The flaxen haired Elf called back to the others, warning them of a possible attack.
"It's Saruman!" From above them lightning struck and large amounts of snow began to tumble down. The prince grabbed the two Sea Elves, pulling them against the icy wall of the mountain.
"I can save myself, thank you!" Kai growled as the snow fell. Aza huddled close to her sister as she put a protective arm around her.
"He's trying to bring down the mountain!" Aragorn yelled over the howling of the winds. He cradled the two Hobbits, trying to keep them as warm as he could in this condition.
"NO!" Gandalf cried, pulling himself above the snow and onto a thick sheet of snow and rock. He lifted his staff and began chanting, "Losto Caradhras, sedho, hodo, nuitho i 'ruith [39]!"
In the voice of the wind Aza could make out the sounds of Saruman's counter spell: "Cuiva nwalca Carnirasse! Nai yarvaxea rasselya taltuva riotto- carrinar [40]!"
Another strike of lightening hit and more of the snow came down, this time burying the Fellowship beneath. With great difficulty they managed to dig their way out, Aragorn and Boromir once again lifting the small Hobbits as they struggled to breathe.
"We must get off the mountain!" Boromir cried over the sounds of the wind, "Make for the Gap of Rohan! Or take the road west to my city!"
"The Gap of Rohan takes us to close to Isengard!" Aragorn pointed out, covering a shivering Frodo with his cloak.
"We cannot pass over a mountain. Let us go under it. Let us go through the Mines of Moria!" Gimli said, some excitement held in his voice.
Kai gave Gandalf an agonized look, knowing what lays ahead for she was there to try and stop it...
"Kai, did they not awake the Great Demon down there?" Aza squeaked, clutching onto the elder woman's belt. The crimson haired Elf patted the child's head affectionately, trying to make her forget about the troubles that went on in the deep but she knew if anything, Frodo would choose a path of death and she would have no choice but to obey.
"Let the Ring Bearer decide," Gandalf said. Frodo thought hard, looking around at his friends as their teeth clattered and lips turned blue with loss of blood.
"We will go through the mines." He concluded. There were very few relieved sighs but the decision was made.
"So be it..."
FINALLY, IT'S UP! AND SOON TO FINISH WITH ONLY THREE MORE CHAPTERS! I HOPE IT WASN'T TOO CONFUSING! DON'T WORRY, AFTER THIS CHAPTER THERE WILL BE NO MORE CONFUSINGNESS! JUST KEEP AZA'S BROTHER IN MIND! HE'S GREATLY NEEDED FOR 'THE PROMISE OF FAREWELL: PART TWO'! ANYWHO, I HOPE YOU LIKED IT AND FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO STARTED SCHOOL AGAIN... I HOPE YOU'RE ALIVE!
[29]- Conevall- The Ralgonnian wolves of the mountain. They are usually tame and very friendly but easily deceived. The name 'Conevall' is my own made for them out of the two names 'Conall' (An Irish/ Scottish name meaning 'strong wolf') and 'Varg' (A Norwegian name meaning 'wolf')
[30]- Lly rhaid brysio! Nir dyfod e'heiyaise- 'You must hurry! More come in the distance!' in Ralgonnian Elvish. I made this by taking the Elvish words 'lle' (meaning 'you'), (rhaid is Welsh for 'must'), (brysio is Welsh for 'hurry'), Ner (meaning 'more'), (dyfod is Welsh for 'come'), e' (meaning 'in') and 'haiyasse' (meaning 'distance')
[31]- Prawf ri' n'yla berlewyg- Ralgonnian Elvish for 'Proof or no entrance'. I took the Elvish words (Prawf is Welsh for 'proof'), ri' (meaning 'or'), n'uma (meaning 'no') and (berlewyg is Welsh for 'entrance').
[32]- Araine, re ydyw engwar- Ralgonnian Elvish for 'Araine, she is ill'. I took the Elvish words 're' (meaning 'she'), (ydyw is Welsh for is) and 'engwar' (meaning 'ill').
[33]- Dilwen- A.K.A 'Din'. Born in the Third Age of Sun, she is the second eldest child of the King of Ralgonnia and the first eldest daughter. She fell in love with a mortal man and bore a child through him. Because of this she could not take up the throne for her father found it unfit. She is now married to the human man but he does not live in the city of Ralgonnia. She is only 2678.
[34]- Fareorer- Born in the Third Age of Sun, she is the second youngest daughter of the King. She was able to take up the throne for she, unlike the others (excluding Din) did not refuse to become the next King/Queen. She is no older than 1030.
[35]- 'Undomiel'- A name given to Arwen, daughter of Elrond Half-Elven, by Men. The Elves give her the name Evenstar, meaning 'evening-maid' (in both terms really).
[36]- The first born son of the King. Like the generals of the Ralgonnian Kingdom and his younger sister, Azalynne, he can transform himself into a wolf but yet he holds no special Ring to do so. He is met later on in Lothlorien and travels with the Fellowship until the departure of Frodo. He refused to take up the throne.
[37]- The Twin Rings- The two rings forged by the maidens of the Valar to stop Lord Sauron. If you wish to read more about this then tell me in a review and I shall post it at the end of Part One or post it separately... whichever.
[38]- Aisling- One of the Maids of the Valar. She came down with from the Heavens in the First Age of Sun to live amongst the immortal Elves. Later, in the war against Sauron she and her sister forged the Twin Rings in attempted to stop them.
[39]- Losto Caradhras, sedho, hodo, nuitho i 'ruith [39] - 'Sleep Caradhras, be still, lie still, hold (your) wrath!' I do not know what language this is in but I do know it isn't Elvish.
[40]- Cuiva nwalca Carnirasse! Nai yarvaxea rasselya taltuva riotto- carrinar - 'Wake up cruel Red Horn! May your blood stained horn fall upon the enemy heads!' Like the other incantation I don't know what language this is in. Though I think very much so that it is the Black Language.
© 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
Quick Summary for the next chapter:
Ch. 6: Onward, Death in Unknown Graveyard (Mines of Moria + death of Gandalf, Lothlorien + departure from)
DEAR READERS:
I KNOW THIS CHAPTER AND CHAPTER FOUR WERE A MIGHTY BIT CONFUSING! I HAVE DECIDED TO TELL YOU WHY I HAVE SOOO MANY NEW CHARACTERS FILING IN ONE AFTER THE OTHER.
I HAD PROMISED MANY OF MY FRIENDS THAT I WOULD PUT THEIR CHARACTERS IN AND IT JUST SO HAPPENS THAT QUITE A MAJORITY HAVE CHARACTERS THAT NEED PUTTING IN. MOST WILL ONLY BE MENTIONED ONCE JUST SO THEY HAVE SOME SORT OF APPEARANCE OR 'SMALL SCENE' TO CALL THEIR OWN.
NOW, TO MAKE THINGS EASIER I HAVE RE-POSTED THIS CHAPTER WITH LITTLE MENTION OF MYRANORE AND PUT MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SEEMINGLY POINTLESS WOLF CLAN. NOW, JUST TO MAKE THINGS EASIER I WILL NO LONGER BE DISCLAIMING GINNY'S CHARACTER 'NEV' FOR CERTAIN REASONS. KAI AND AZA ARE THE MAIN AND YOU WILL NEED TO REMEMBER THEM. EVERYTHING ELSE IS JUST SOMETHING I RANDOMLY PUT IN FOR FUN.
I WOULD ALSO LIKE YOU TO REMEMBER THAT RALGONNIA AND ITS INHABBITANTS ARE MINE AND MINE ALONE SO WHATEVER I MAKE UP FRO THEM IS TRUTH AND HOPEFULLY NOT TOO CONFUSING. PRETEND YOU READING ANOTHER J.R.R TOLKIEN BOOK ALL ABOUT RALGONNIA FOR THIS CHAPTER! (Though I will never be able to write as brilliantly as him, do try!)
Authoress: ChibiTari
Rating: PG/ PG-13
Warnings: Action, OC, humor and hinted romance!
= Dear Mickey,
After extensive research I finally found out who Glorifindel is. Had I known I would have used him, but seeing as I still have not read the books I am at a loss and going by what the movie has done. That and the 'movie' thing sorta has to be done because I have something coming up after the end of 'The Promise of Farewell' which could prove to be very interesting... Sorry to have disappointed you =
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.
Ruby belongs to Laura V Lopez who has graciously allowed me to use her character in this fic, THANK YOU!
Summary: Azalynne Driftwood decided to protect Frodo with her life but when things become hard, can she keep this promise?
I know that this chapter may get a little confusing seeing as we're now traveling to the country which I have made up but I tried to put as much information as possible to please you all! The amount of characters being introduced is truly unbelievable but, I swear, after the Fellowship of the Ring (A.K.A Part I) there will be no more new characters! Only Aza and four others will stay!
Enjoy the fic!
Chapter five (5): Mountain Everlasting
They had ventured up the steep paths of the mountain and Azalynne was still in a deep sleep. Legolas kept a firm hold on her as he walk over the snow with light feet.
"There is an even pathway up ahead! I'm sure we could use it and walk in an easier pace!" The Elf prince said, calling over the small head of mahogany hair to see the rest of the Fellowship struggling to get through the snow. As he continued on ahead he shifted the weight of the girl on his back from one side to the other, trying to keep her comfortable at the same time as keep her safe.
A sudden cry from behind the two Elves caused Legolas to turn around and see as Frodo tripped over his own feet, sending him rolling down the small slope.
"Frodo!" Aragorn yelled, rushing to the Ring bearer's side, helping him to his feet again. Frodo brushed the snow from his clothes then began to search around in his cloak for the Ring. In the lead of him he saw Boromir bend down to collect the Ring by the silver chain it now hung from.
Aragorn removed the protective hold he had on Frodo's shoulders to place his hand on the hilt of his sword, preparing himself for anything that was to follow.
"Boromir," He said, his voice holding some threat.
"It is a fate that we should suffer so much fear and doubt over so small a thing. Such a little thing." The man moved his left hand towards the Ring itself, wanting to touch it even once. It seemed that he was unable to control his movements, similar to that of a puppet and its master.
"Boromir, give the Ring to Frodo!" It seemed to work, Boromir withdrew from the spell, returning to his reality. He marched carefully down to Frodo and Aragorn, who was still ready for attack.
"As you wish," He held the Ring in front of Frodo and the Hobbit grabbed it, fixing the chain back onto his neck securely. "I care not." With that the azure eyed man ruffled the Hobbits dark mane then made a move to where he stood before.
"We should never have ventured here; the Hobbits are not used to such conditions! Anymore faults and they may find themselves at the foot of the mountain with not a breath to spare!" Gimli muttered, watching Merry and Sam struggle to help Pippin up the slope.
"Gandalf! Something draws near!" Legolas shouted, hearing the sound of low growls and deep barking as creatures of the snowy peak approached.
"What's happening, Gandalf?" Pippin asked, his body beginning to shake violently. Merry held his cousin close, trying to keep him warm at the very most for he knew that he could not help another with their fears when he too was frightened of what was to come.
"The snowy Wolves of Caradhras. They are far stronger than any Warg. They're the Conevall [29]."
"The Wolves of Ralgonnia? They exist!?" Gimli demanded, raising his axe.
"And with Azalynne in her condition she will not be able to help us!" Aragorn muttered he unsheathed his sword, moving in front of Frodo so no harm could come to him.
The snarling was close now, soon the Conevall would be upon them, and there would be no escaping their attack. Sensing something from his right, the flaxen haired Elf let one of his arrows fly. He heard a howl of pain and directly before him he saw the creature fall, its blood staining its white death bed.
The death of one of their kin angered the Wolves to a greater level and in just mere moments the Fellowship was surrounded. The creatures bounded down the icy slope jumping over any arrows sent their way.
Aragorn swung his sword aggressively as one attacked suddenly. He managed to kill it but not before it bit down, sinking its jaws into the flesh of his left arm.
Legolas was knocked backwards as one pounced, kicking with its hind legs. The fall caused him to lose hold of Aza. The child was sent skidding until she was stopped by one of the snowy coated creatures. His paw covered her stomach as he licked his lips but when he leaned in to taste his meal his mouth filled with blood. Shrieking in pain he swayed forward then to the side, nearly sending one of the Hobbits close by off the cliff.
"Sam!" Merry hollered, grabbing the blond by the wrist, but it was no use; he was slipping from his grip. "Grab my other hand! Hurry!"
"I can't reach!" The other cried back, his voice trembling. He couldn't hold on and he knew his friend was running low on strength. Nobody else was able to come to their aid as they were trying to ward off the Conevall.
"SAM!" The Brandybuck screamed, watching as his hold failed and the boy fell. Something rushed by him, making a jump off the crest, leaping skillfully from rock to rock that stuck out from the mountainside. As soon as the creature was beneath the Halfling he stopped, waiting for the hazel eyed boy to fall atop of him.
Now Merry could see the creature with clear eyes, its wind tossed fur which was now graying in areas, lightening the now black coat. The golden eyes gazed up at him, holding some form of victory as he slowly and carefully made his way back to the safer ground beside Meriadoc. Sam held on, his fingers grasping clumps of dark fur, trying not to look at the distance between them and the hard ground below. Once secure he climbed off, falling in a heap beside his friend, seeing the creature run off to the aid of the other members in the Fellowship. From what he could tell that wolf was not the only one there to aid them.
"Who are they?" Frodo breathed, panting as he came up adjacent to his comrades. "And why do they help us?"
"I don't know, Mr. Frodo, but I reckon they can't be the baddies 'ere! That black hound saved me!" Sam all but stuttered out. From out of nowhere a silver gemmed dagger flew past them to another of the attacking mongrels. It hurled into the monsters chest, stopping it from springing on the small Half-men.
"Where did that come from!?" Pippin cried, turning in all directions to look for the keeper of the weapon. His question was answered when his eyes lay upon the form of a crimson haired Elf Maiden. Her hair blew in the wind, covering her face slightly from view.
"Lly rhaid brysio! Nir dyfod e'heiyaise [30]!" She called down to the smaller wolf clan. They looked up and, with one last kill; they fled, running over the pass to stand behind the maid. The woman's eyes traveled over the sight with a saddened expression. Her gaze soon rested upon the Elfling as she lay, whimpering and battered on the snowy floor. Legolas made a move to get her but the emerald eyed woman reached her before he could take a step forward.
"Aza, stay with me. Do not let the darkness win!" She breathed, watching as the girls face slowly became insipid.
Legolas drew his bow, the arrow's point digging into her middle back. "Put the child down or this will be your last day."
"Do you threaten me, Legolas Greenleaf of the Woodland realm?" The red head scoffed, her eyes flashing silver for a second before returning to their normal colour.
"Where do you take her, Elf Maid? Speak or it will be your head!" The Dwarf intimidated.
"Are you sure about that, Gimli, son of Gloin? I doubt you could reach this far up to even touch the hair on my head, now follow me or you shall be left in the cold to die!"
"Why should we follow-?" Pippin's question was cut short as distant a bark was heard, "Let's go with her!" He cried, racing up beside the maid.
"Gandalf, we must hurry down at a quick speed for things shadow my mind, Saruman the White is at work again, I can feel it. The Conevall in these parts are quite tame, they would not attack unless some evil was roaming the lands." The woman spoke when the Wizard caught up with her. They climbed wearily up the hill where she had come down to stand at its peak. They waited a moment as the Men collected the Hobbits, lifting them with sore arms and leisurely stepping up the icy hillside.
Still unsure if the Elf should be trusted, Gimli kept a sharp eye on the back of her head, waiting for any sudden movements on her part but none came and after nearly twenty minutes of watching he lowered his axe and walked instep with the others.
"I do not feel that she is of any harm to us, son of Gloin, for she carries the child with tender arms." Legolas spoke softly, resting a trusting hand on the Dwarfs shoulder.
The maid led them down a narrow path behind the mountain, the wolf clan trailing them as they walked. The snow seemed to melt away and the temperature became slightly warmer. Tree tops could now be seen, the leaves green and thick and beyond the wide forest came the sparkle of water in the midday sun.
"Where do you lead us, Maid of Elves?" Boromir queried, stumbling over a small stone in his way.
"I lead you to Ralgonnia, that land of the Sea Elves. There you shall take rest, feast and heal from whatever wounds that have been inflicted upon you." Aragorn covered his lesion with one of his hands, trying to stop the blood that dripped down his arm, now blemishing his black tunic.
*
Nightfall was now upon them as they were lead into the heart of a forest, the Wizard talking to the She-Elf as if they had known each other for a lifetime. The wolves howled and barked, chasing each other down the dirt road.
"Um... Ms. Elf?" Frodo started, a little unsure if there was any name given or not.
"Please, call me Kai; I would much prefer that to any of the things they call me back home."
"Kai... Are we close to Ralgonnia yet?" The sapphire eyed Hobbit asked, not meeting the woman's gaze.
"Yes, the Blue Gate is just up ahead, do you not see it?"
"No," Merry said, squinting hard to see if he was missing something.
"Good then, it still remains a secret. Araine shall be our sign and then you will know whether or not we have far to go." To complete her statement a few paces ahead another of the Sea Elves emerged. This one was dressed in a robe of scarves and carried a sword. Her hair was silver and her eyes a shade of navy.
"Prawf ri' n'yla berlewyg [31]," She spoke her eyes falling upon the ill form of Azalynne.
"The Elf child was in the presence of Crebain, she has fallen ill, you must let her in for treatment." Gandalf said, expecting to be let in with this new information but the woman stood her ground, raising the sword in her hand, stopping him from moving any further in. One of the hounds with a coat of soft brown gave a bark and moved to stand beside the silver headed Elf.
"No entrance without some sort of proof that you are to be here. I wish to see the mark!"
"Araine, re ydyw engwar [32]. You know I am friend, please." Araine nodded. She moved forward and pressed her hand against an invisible lock. Under her breath she whispered the spell that could unlock the indiscernible entrance. A light then shone through what must have been a crack between the two gates.
"Come and behold the beauty of our land. But, Master Elf of the Woodland Realm, expect no pleasant greetings for your kind are hated amongst our people. I give you fair warning." The silver haired Maiden said, frowning as he passed her. Legolas stayed close to Aragorn and Gandalf not wanting to be to well noticed by most of the Elves that roamed the city freely. Frodo looked over his shoulder to see the most spectacular and unusual sight one could see. Where there were once wolves now stood Elf men, all dressed in silver amour, blue leggings and mithril from the Dwarves in the caves under the mountain.
"Wh- what just happened!?" The boy coughed, staring at the group as they marched by him, singing and laughing, seemingly without a care.
"The guards of our country hold many secrets Master Frodo. Each holds the gift to transform himself into a beast of the wild to blend in easier and trick the enemy for a strong attack." Kai explained, seeing the look of shock present on his face.
"This is truly one of few Elvish cities with such magic." He breathed.
"It is the only city with such magic for the queen is a Maid of the Valar. A half God, if you will." Araine said, following closely behind to make sure everyone was in. She stopped short at the length of the gate and bid her friend farewell the turned.
The Hobbits jumped as they heard the Blue Gates close with a creak but when they turned back to see the Elf maid and the Gates they had entered by they saw nothing but homes of white stone and the Ocean of Ekkaia that led to the lands of Valinor to the west.
"Welcome, Mr. Frodo, to the Land of Myriad Waters... To Ralgonnia..." The scarlet haired She-Elf said, her voice turning soft as she spoke to the Halflings. Her face hardened again, though, as she turned back to face the Mith'quessir and walked by him, past the homes of the village square, past the many wondering eyes of the Ear'quessir and onward to the garden that circled the palace.
"Lady Kai-" Sam began, not knowing if he should or shouldn't continue on with the question that held in his mind.
"Just Kai, please-" The Elf corrected, a look of disgust crossing her features as the word 'Lady' was added to her name.
"Kai- How did we get from a forest to the Ocean so quick? The gate was in the idle of trees not anywhere near where the Ocean rested!"
"The Blue Gate is enchanted, Master Gamgee, once you walk through it you will be taken into the heart of Ralgonnia. It makes things far easier when visitors from distant lands decide to stopover. They don't have to walk the distance."
"And if we didn't go through the gates, what then?" Pippin inquired.
"You would be walking in circles through the forest of Caradhras."
They continued on, making there way along the stony path towards the inner palace gardens, soon to step onto the ashen stone of the bastion steps and into the Hall of Kings.
"Where is it that you wish to take us, Lady Elf? The village lies behind us, does it not?" Boromir asked, his head whirling around to see the waterside habitation.
"Indeed the village lies behind you but the palace lies ahead and that is where I lead you. What princess lives in the township square?"
"Princess? Are you the princess of this country?" The ginger headed Dwarf inquired his eyebrow raising slightly for she looked like no Royal. Her clothes were mere rags from what he could tell; the blue tunic she wore was torn at the sleeves and the sea green leggings that adorned her legs had holes in odd places. The belt that hung loosely over her hips was swathed in mud, making it seem as if she spent more time in the forest than she did at home.
"Princess Klicia, there you are! Where have you been, your father is furious!" Someone said, rushing out to meet the Fellowship. The woman seemed to be a hand-maiden of some sort for she wasn't dressed in the normal Elvish wear. Most of her hair was hidden under a light scarf and the dress she wore wasn't in the more beautiful colours you saw but rather in a dark blue.
"I am sorry, Merron. My sister needs help, she had fallen victim to the call of the Crebain. My father must heal her." Kai said in a hurried voice, shocking those who had followed her.
"Azalynne is... is your sister? But that means that-" Frodo tried to consume the information as best he could but his thoughts were spinning in circles.
"-means that she's a princess!" Pippin finished the thought for him, staring wide-eyed at the small Elfling in Kai's arms.
"Yes, the youngest daughter of King Llyr." Gandalf said, winking at the hand-maid as she carried Aza into the palace. The woman blushed but said nothing; instead she called out for another of the servants.
"Mayim, take the child to her sister. Princess Dilwen [33] must heal her for she is passing fast." The other maid nodded, taking the child down a long string of corridors into one of the rooms.
"Let us pray that Din can heal the little one." Kai muttered, staring at the place where her sister was taken off to.
"What about the king? Why did you not take her to him!? You said that he was the only one who can fully heal her!" Gimli cried, glaring over to the Elf princess.
"My sister is a better healer than my father; she learned his magic long before she learned to speak. Do not misjudge me again, Dwarf, or your days will end here."
"Lady Klicia, please, do not raise your voice, it isn't very lady-like." Merron said, a few of her chocolate curls falling over her eyes.
"I am no lady and I am no princess. I gave that title up long ago and do not wish to return to that path." With that said, Kai turned on her heal and marched out, off the palace grounds and back down to the village to play with the children there.
"Stubborn, that one is. Never does what she's told and that's why Lady Fareorer [34] is taking the throne, should anything happen to the King, of course." Merron said, huffing as she motioned for them to follow her.
*
That night a great feast was held where many of the Elves of that country were invited. The Fellowship sat together on one side, surrounded by the Ear'quessir as they chattered amongst themselves. The feast was held outside, in a clearing deep in the heart of the forest. Light came from the candles on the tables and the lamps hung on the trees.
Azalynne seemed much better, though she did not remember what had happened to her she was healthy again. She sat with Kai and her sister Din, the eldest of the four daughters.
Din was quite a beautiful sight, her red hair reached down her back in much the same fashion as most of the Elves of that country. Her eyes were blue in colour, the same as her youngest sisters. She was darker in skin tone than most her family but that made her all the more fascinating. Beside her sat her daughter, Rhonwen [34], food spilt all down her front. She was no more than six. The child was half-human, though, and this caused problems for the eldest daughter for now she could not take the throne.
Helping the small child with her food was the second youngest daughter of the king, Fareorer. Her hair seemed a dark shade of green, almost brown but in this light one couldn't be sure. Her eyes were the same shade as Klicia's and the shape of her face like her mothers, who was sitting at the head of the table, talking to a few of the servants.
Llyr stood, calling out for attention, glaring over at the prince of Mirkwood.
"We will eat this great feast in honor of those who have come amongst us to enjoy our lands and take rest from their long journey." He lifted his goblet in the air before bringing it to his lips.
"Here, here!" The Elves around the table cheered, doing the same as the music began to play. Some stayed to eat the feast presented to them while others pushed out their chairs, wandering over to dance. The Queen held a hand out to her husband, beckoning him to stand and join her in a dance. He shot a quick glance over to Din and Fareorer who only giggled and motioned for him to go.
"This is quite unlike most of the places I have visited," Boromir whispered to Gandalf, waiting for a response.
"That is because Ralgonnia isn't like other places, they are their own country. More free than the free peoples themselves! Each man woman and child has his or her own rules here but few tend to follow them..." The grey haired man chuckled, watching Aza and another of the Sea Elves fight over a piece of meat.
"Come, Aragorn, let us dance before the light of moon and waste the night away with careless thoughts!" An Elven maid yet to be introduced laughed, grabbing the Man by the arm and pulling him up.
"Do I have a choice my Lady?" He smiled.
"None whatsoever!" She smiled.
"And your name, if I may ask?"
"Myranore of the River. I come from the lands beyond and traveled through many a horrid night to arrive here!"
"And where did you travel from?" Strider managed to ask as he was tugged into a circle of Elves, all singing and moving with the music.
"Rivendell, friend, I tended to the needs of her Ladyship, Arwen Undomiel [35]!"
"Then why did you come to such a far away land such as this?" Aragorn asked, truly dumbfounded.
"'Tis more peaceful in this land of old. Lord Elrond was had far too many expectations for me and I never seemed to follow through so I ran!" The Elf answered, not in the least shaken by his many questions. She answered all with confidence and a strong heart as if to say 'I know where I have ventured and the roads I have taken and I remain proud!'
"If I may, I shall take my leave, my stomach calls for food, my Lady, I may return later." He bowed politely then turned to make his way back to the table. She didn't seem to mind as she took hold of another Elf man and they soon were laughing together.
"Hullo Strider! Dancing with Myranore I see, quite the exuberant one she is!" Azalynne laughed, biting into a piece of fruit.
"I would talk, sister, you tend to be a wee bit out of control at times..." Fareorer mumbled, smiling sweetly as she turned to look at Boromir.
"I resent that. Humph!" Aza slumped slightly in her seat, glaring ahead of her, trying not to say anything back.
Strider watched Myranore as she and a red haired Elf danced in the light of a well guarded fire.
"Argh, Isis [36] is at it again... He seems to love that girl, why does he not ask her to marry him?" Kai muttered, rolling her eyes as she, too, watched the scene in front of them.
"Who is Isis?" Sam asked, chewing on a piece of bread.
"Our brother..." The sisters chorused, glaring ahead of them at the man. He and Kai seemed a lot alike in appearance. Unlike the other Ralgonnian Elves neither of them had webbed ears, taking after their father in that area with the more common Sindarin ears. They both had red tresses and emerald eyes but he had a far more square face than she.
The King returned to the table, breathless as he laughed an almost drunken laugh. Collapsing in his chair he looked at the faces of the Fellowship, staring hard at the Ring Bearer most of all. After a few more intakes of air he stood, walking over to join the small group of companions.
"I wish to speak with you all to discuss the journey of the Ring. Come, follow me..."
*
The Fellowship now sat in a round, dome-shaped room, the ceiling painted with the images of the war long ago. In the centre of the room a round marble table was placed, the chairs now occupied with the bodies of the ten companions, Kai and the King.
"I called you here to discuss the journey of the Fellowship. The Ralgonnian Elves did not take part in the Council of Elrond for one reason; we do not wish to take part in the journey to Mordor. I-"
Kai stood, cutting him off before he had time to continue. "Father it is a destiny Aza and I must endure! You cannot stop the Twin Rings [37] from going south! You must let us go!" She argued but her father raised a hand to silence her before she could go on.
"It is a decision I have the right to make for you. I will not put the lives of my daughters on the line, I am sorry, but you must stay."
"King Llyr, why do you not keep the Ring here, no one would find it through the invisible gate?" Boromir stated, looking at the affect his suggestion had had on the King.
"Stay here? Did you not hear what Lord Elrond had to say about the Elves?"
"Father, he said nothing at the Council. I should know for I was there." Azalynne said as she cast the human a withering glare, his red locks blowing in a small breeze that came from an open window.
"Our kind is leaving. The Elves of this country travel to the west, to the Undying Lands. We do not stay here. We have no more power in these parts and enchantment keeping the gates unseen is fading. Our strength weakens as the days go by. We leave for the Western Shores on the dawn of the fourteenth month; we shall not stay and be slain."
"Father, Kai and I must leave, it is written in the old legends that the bearers of the Twin Rings follow the path of the One Ring, be it good or bad! You know this; the day mother gave us the Rings!" Aza protested, not liking how her reunion with her father was going as of late.
"I have heard the old tales, Azalynne, and none of them are good. You will follow me not as your father but as your King to the West!"
"Llyr, they must take the path they know is right. Both Kai and Aza cannot escape their destiny!" Gandalf hoped that maybe he could reach his old friend but nothing could change his mind.
"Gandalf, two of my daughters were given the responsibility to save this world and yet neither of them knows what this world can really be like! The cruelty shown to them is only but a taste of what goes on! I will not let them be slain by the hands of Saruman's forces!" Llyr took his seat again, not wanting this conversation to go any further than it already had.
"We must, we have no choice in the matter!" Klicia persisted, not wanting to let the subject go.
"They are right, we cannot escape our destinies. They will go with Frodo and protect the Ring until it is destroyed. They are the maidens of the Rings, Llyr, they have to." The Queen spoke, her voice high and soft, dreamlike in a way. The group turned in their seats to see her move lightly over the ground as if she was floating. She stopped when she reached the Kings side, gazing soothingly at the faces of her daughters.
"I know, Aisling [38], I just don't want to lose them to the fires of Mordor... But I know what fate has weaved for them..."
"So be it," The Queen said, "Azalynne and Klicia, you will travel with Frodo, protect him wherever his path may lead." The two Elven Princess' smiled; glad to know their mother was still an understanding woman.
*
And so it was, the next morning at the break of dawn the Fellowship left, Kai now traveling with them. Things were becoming harder, more confusing for the little ones.
Provisions were supplied by the Elves of the Sea and small farewell was given. They had reached the foot of the mountain, opposite to where they were just the morning before.
"We must climb the mountain again, from there we travel north, over the Mines of Moria." The Wizard said, holding his staff out in front of him, pointing it in the direction in which they were taking.
They had made it onto the snowy peak once again. A blizzard had started and the snow became deep. Legolas and the Elvin maids walked with ease over the snow but behind them the others were barely able to move. The Men held two Hobbits each for without their help the small creatures would be blown off the mountain.
Legolas walked stealthily over the snow but could not see more than a few inches in advance. The weather was worsening and soon the storm would really be upon them.
"There is a fell voice on the air!" The flaxen haired Elf called back to the others, warning them of a possible attack.
"It's Saruman!" From above them lightning struck and large amounts of snow began to tumble down. The prince grabbed the two Sea Elves, pulling them against the icy wall of the mountain.
"I can save myself, thank you!" Kai growled as the snow fell. Aza huddled close to her sister as she put a protective arm around her.
"He's trying to bring down the mountain!" Aragorn yelled over the howling of the winds. He cradled the two Hobbits, trying to keep them as warm as he could in this condition.
"NO!" Gandalf cried, pulling himself above the snow and onto a thick sheet of snow and rock. He lifted his staff and began chanting, "Losto Caradhras, sedho, hodo, nuitho i 'ruith [39]!"
In the voice of the wind Aza could make out the sounds of Saruman's counter spell: "Cuiva nwalca Carnirasse! Nai yarvaxea rasselya taltuva riotto- carrinar [40]!"
Another strike of lightening hit and more of the snow came down, this time burying the Fellowship beneath. With great difficulty they managed to dig their way out, Aragorn and Boromir once again lifting the small Hobbits as they struggled to breathe.
"We must get off the mountain!" Boromir cried over the sounds of the wind, "Make for the Gap of Rohan! Or take the road west to my city!"
"The Gap of Rohan takes us to close to Isengard!" Aragorn pointed out, covering a shivering Frodo with his cloak.
"We cannot pass over a mountain. Let us go under it. Let us go through the Mines of Moria!" Gimli said, some excitement held in his voice.
Kai gave Gandalf an agonized look, knowing what lays ahead for she was there to try and stop it...
"Kai, did they not awake the Great Demon down there?" Aza squeaked, clutching onto the elder woman's belt. The crimson haired Elf patted the child's head affectionately, trying to make her forget about the troubles that went on in the deep but she knew if anything, Frodo would choose a path of death and she would have no choice but to obey.
"Let the Ring Bearer decide," Gandalf said. Frodo thought hard, looking around at his friends as their teeth clattered and lips turned blue with loss of blood.
"We will go through the mines." He concluded. There were very few relieved sighs but the decision was made.
"So be it..."
FINALLY, IT'S UP! AND SOON TO FINISH WITH ONLY THREE MORE CHAPTERS! I HOPE IT WASN'T TOO CONFUSING! DON'T WORRY, AFTER THIS CHAPTER THERE WILL BE NO MORE CONFUSINGNESS! JUST KEEP AZA'S BROTHER IN MIND! HE'S GREATLY NEEDED FOR 'THE PROMISE OF FAREWELL: PART TWO'! ANYWHO, I HOPE YOU LIKED IT AND FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO STARTED SCHOOL AGAIN... I HOPE YOU'RE ALIVE!
[29]- Conevall- The Ralgonnian wolves of the mountain. They are usually tame and very friendly but easily deceived. The name 'Conevall' is my own made for them out of the two names 'Conall' (An Irish/ Scottish name meaning 'strong wolf') and 'Varg' (A Norwegian name meaning 'wolf')
[30]- Lly rhaid brysio! Nir dyfod e'heiyaise- 'You must hurry! More come in the distance!' in Ralgonnian Elvish. I made this by taking the Elvish words 'lle' (meaning 'you'), (rhaid is Welsh for 'must'), (brysio is Welsh for 'hurry'), Ner (meaning 'more'), (dyfod is Welsh for 'come'), e' (meaning 'in') and 'haiyasse' (meaning 'distance')
[31]- Prawf ri' n'yla berlewyg- Ralgonnian Elvish for 'Proof or no entrance'. I took the Elvish words (Prawf is Welsh for 'proof'), ri' (meaning 'or'), n'uma (meaning 'no') and (berlewyg is Welsh for 'entrance').
[32]- Araine, re ydyw engwar- Ralgonnian Elvish for 'Araine, she is ill'. I took the Elvish words 're' (meaning 'she'), (ydyw is Welsh for is) and 'engwar' (meaning 'ill').
[33]- Dilwen- A.K.A 'Din'. Born in the Third Age of Sun, she is the second eldest child of the King of Ralgonnia and the first eldest daughter. She fell in love with a mortal man and bore a child through him. Because of this she could not take up the throne for her father found it unfit. She is now married to the human man but he does not live in the city of Ralgonnia. She is only 2678.
[34]- Fareorer- Born in the Third Age of Sun, she is the second youngest daughter of the King. She was able to take up the throne for she, unlike the others (excluding Din) did not refuse to become the next King/Queen. She is no older than 1030.
[35]- 'Undomiel'- A name given to Arwen, daughter of Elrond Half-Elven, by Men. The Elves give her the name Evenstar, meaning 'evening-maid' (in both terms really).
[36]- The first born son of the King. Like the generals of the Ralgonnian Kingdom and his younger sister, Azalynne, he can transform himself into a wolf but yet he holds no special Ring to do so. He is met later on in Lothlorien and travels with the Fellowship until the departure of Frodo. He refused to take up the throne.
[37]- The Twin Rings- The two rings forged by the maidens of the Valar to stop Lord Sauron. If you wish to read more about this then tell me in a review and I shall post it at the end of Part One or post it separately... whichever.
[38]- Aisling- One of the Maids of the Valar. She came down with from the Heavens in the First Age of Sun to live amongst the immortal Elves. Later, in the war against Sauron she and her sister forged the Twin Rings in attempted to stop them.
[39]- Losto Caradhras, sedho, hodo, nuitho i 'ruith [39] - 'Sleep Caradhras, be still, lie still, hold (your) wrath!' I do not know what language this is in but I do know it isn't Elvish.
[40]- Cuiva nwalca Carnirasse! Nai yarvaxea rasselya taltuva riotto- carrinar - 'Wake up cruel Red Horn! May your blood stained horn fall upon the enemy heads!' Like the other incantation I don't know what language this is in. Though I think very much so that it is the Black Language.
© 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
Quick Summary for the next chapter:
Ch. 6: Onward, Death in Unknown Graveyard (Mines of Moria + death of Gandalf, Lothlorien + departure from)
DEAR READERS:
I KNOW THIS CHAPTER AND CHAPTER FOUR WERE A MIGHTY BIT CONFUSING! I HAVE DECIDED TO TELL YOU WHY I HAVE SOOO MANY NEW CHARACTERS FILING IN ONE AFTER THE OTHER.
I HAD PROMISED MANY OF MY FRIENDS THAT I WOULD PUT THEIR CHARACTERS IN AND IT JUST SO HAPPENS THAT QUITE A MAJORITY HAVE CHARACTERS THAT NEED PUTTING IN. MOST WILL ONLY BE MENTIONED ONCE JUST SO THEY HAVE SOME SORT OF APPEARANCE OR 'SMALL SCENE' TO CALL THEIR OWN.
NOW, TO MAKE THINGS EASIER I HAVE RE-POSTED THIS CHAPTER WITH LITTLE MENTION OF MYRANORE AND PUT MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SEEMINGLY POINTLESS WOLF CLAN. NOW, JUST TO MAKE THINGS EASIER I WILL NO LONGER BE DISCLAIMING GINNY'S CHARACTER 'NEV' FOR CERTAIN REASONS. KAI AND AZA ARE THE MAIN AND YOU WILL NEED TO REMEMBER THEM. EVERYTHING ELSE IS JUST SOMETHING I RANDOMLY PUT IN FOR FUN.
I WOULD ALSO LIKE YOU TO REMEMBER THAT RALGONNIA AND ITS INHABBITANTS ARE MINE AND MINE ALONE SO WHATEVER I MAKE UP FRO THEM IS TRUTH AND HOPEFULLY NOT TOO CONFUSING. PRETEND YOU READING ANOTHER J.R.R TOLKIEN BOOK ALL ABOUT RALGONNIA FOR THIS CHAPTER! (Though I will never be able to write as brilliantly as him, do try!)
